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Cylindrical photoelectric sensor with 2 m PVC cable

Sick

Sick VL18-3N3712 Photoelectric retro-reflective sensor NPN

SKU CH-HWWY-TM84Z

Photoelectric retro-reflective sensor with 0.05 m to 3.7 m range, NPN dark-switching output and IP67-rated plastic housing

  • Retro-reflective sensing up to 3.7 m range
  • NPN dark-switching output for direct PLC connection
  • 2 ms response time catches fast-moving objects
  • IP67 enclosure resists dust and water ingress
  • Operates from –25 °C to +70 °C
  • 10–30 V DC supply fits standard control voltages

Retro-reflective sensor for DC control circuits

The Sick VL18-3N3712 is a photoelectric retro-reflective sensor with an NPN dark-switching output. It operates on 10 V DC to 30 V DC supply voltage and detects objects at distances from 0.05 m up to 3.7 m using visible red LED light. The cylindrical plastic housing measures 63.6 mm and carries an IP67 enclosure rating for dust and water protection.

Simple cable connection

Installation uses a fixed 2 m PVC cable with 0.14 mm² conductors and a 3.1 mm outer diameter. A built-in potentiometer allows sensing range adjustment without software tools. Ensure the cable routing avoids sharp edges and that the supply ripple stays within 10 % to prevent erratic switching.

Check voltage, output logic

Verify that your control system provides 10 V DC to 30 V DC and accepts an NPN dark-switching signal. Confirm the 63.6 mm cylindrical housing fits the intended mounting location and that the operating temperature range of –25 °C to +70 °C covers the application environment. The sensor is not suited for AC supplies or PNP input modules.

How it compares

Measured against everything we stock in Electrical Trade Tools & Kits, at today’s prices. Recalculated every night.

Price $77.99
Cheaper than about 63% of the 5,006 comparable items (median $95.99).

Specifications

Product
Brand nameSick
Model nameSICK VL18-3N3712

Questions about this item

How do I verify the VL18-3N3712 is working after wiring it to a 10 V DC to 30 V DC supply?

Apply power within the 10 V DC to 30 V DC range, align the beam with the reflector within 0.05 m to 3.7 m, and confirm the NPN output switches low when the beam is interrupted.

What comes with the sensor and what must I source separately for the VL18-3N3712?

The unit includes a 2 m PVC cable with 0.14 mm² conductors; you must supply a compatible reflector, a 10 V DC to 30 V DC power source, and mounting hardware.

Which sensing-range version of the VL18-3N3712 should I choose for a 3 m detection distance?

This model provides a maximum sensing range of 3.7 m and a rated range of 3 m, so the single listed version covers a 3 m requirement.

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