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Cylindrical M18 plastic sensor with radial lens and M12 connector

Sick

Sick VSVE18-3N3840 Through-beam photoelectric sensor NPN

SKU CH-FF1C-6EH35

Detects objects up to 14 m with a cylindrical M18 through-beam sensor, NPN dark-switching output, IP67 housing, and M12 connector

  • 20 m maximum sensing range for long-distance detection
  • 14 m operating range ensures reliable object sensing
  • IP67 enclosure rating protects against dust and water
  • 250 Hz switching frequency supports fast automation cycles
  • M12 4-pin connector simplifies installation and wiring

Through-beam sensor for industrial detection

The Sick VSVE18-3N3840 is a cylindrical through-beam photoelectric sensor designed for automated object detection in industrial environments. Its M18 threaded housing allows direct mounting on machinery frames or brackets. The NPN dark-switching output suits PLC inputs that require a sinking signal. It operates on a 10 V DC to 30 V DC supply.

Low heat and quiet solid-state operation

As a solid-state device with no moving parts, the sensor generates negligible heat and produces no audible noise during normal operation. Current draw is limited to 30 mA at the supply voltage, keeping power consumption minimal. The IP67-rated PBT/PC housing protects the electronics from dust and water ingress across an ambient range of –25 °C to +70 °C.

Consistent response under continuous cycling

The sensor maintains a 2 ms response time and a 250 Hz switching frequency during sustained, repetitive detection cycles. Infrared LED emission creates a 700 mm spot at the 14 m sensing range with an approximate 2.8° dispersion angle. Built-in circuit protection guards against supply faults and output overloads up to 100 mA. No potentiometer adjustment means the detection threshold remains fixed over long production runs.

How it compares

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

Price $69.99
Cheaper than about 70% of the 5,006 comparable items (median $95.99).

Specifications

Product
Brand nameSick
Model nameSICK VSVE18-3N3840

Questions about this item

How do I install the VSVE18-3N3840 sensor and what is the common wiring mistake?

Mount the M18 x 1 threaded housing, align the radial optical axis with the receiver up to 14 m, connect the 4-pin M12 plug to a 10-30 V DC supply, and wire the NPN dark-switching output to the load; the frequent error is reversing the brown and blue supply wires.

What maintenance or replacement will the VSVE18-3N3840 need over time?

Clean the plastic PBT/PC lens periodically to keep the 2.8° infrared beam clear; the LED light source is non-replaceable, so the complete sensor is swapped if output current drops below 100 mA or the IP67 seal fails.

What limit appears first during continuous operation of the VSVE18-3N3840?

The 250 Hz switching frequency caps the maximum detection rate, so sustained high-speed cycling hits that ceiling before the 2 ms response time or 70 °C temperature limit becomes restrictive.

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