Sick VL18-3N3412 photoelectric retro-reflective sensor NPN electrician tool

Cylindrical M18 photoelectric retro-reflective

The Sick VL18-3N3412 is a cylindrical metal sensor with a nickel-plated brass housing measuring 60.6 mm in length. It uses visible red LED light to detect objects at distances from 0.05 m to 3.7 m. The unit operates on 10 V DC to 30 V DC supply voltage and provides an NPN dark-switching output rated at 100 mA maximum current. An IP67 enclosure rating protects against dust and temporary immersion in industrial environments.

Suited for automated lines needing radial optical

This sensor suits conveyor monitoring and presence detection where a radial beam and 270° potentiometer sensitivity adjustment simplify setup. The 2 m PVC cable with 0.14 mm² conductors offers a fixed wiring solution. Buyers who require a teach-in button, IO-Link connectivity, or a plug-in M12 connector should look at other models because this device uses only potentiometer adjustment and a pre-wired cable connection.

Straightforward bracket mounting

The M18 x 1 thread allows direct mounting into a tapped hole or nut without special brackets. Wiring is a standard three-wire DC connection: brown to positive, blue to negative, black to the load. The most common issue is misaligned reflector positioning; the 2.8° dispersion angle and 150 mm light spot at 3 m help locate the beam centre during commissioning. Ensure the supply voltage stays within the 10 V to 30 V DC range to avoid output instability.