Sick
Sick VL18-3N3212 NPN Photoelectric retro-reflective sensor
NPN photoelectric retro-reflective sensor with 0.05 m to 3.7 m sensing range, 10–30 V DC supply, IP67 metal housing and 2 m PVC cable
- Detects objects up to 3.7 m with visible red LED
- NPN dark-switching output handles 100 mA load current
- Adjustable sensitivity via 270° potentiometer for precise setup
- IP67 nickel-plated brass housing withstands –25 °C to +70 °C
- 2 m PVC cable with 3-wire connection simplifies installation
Industrial sensing with M18 cylindrical housing
The Sick VL18-3N3212 is a photoelectric retro-reflective sensor built for industrial automation and machine-safety tasks. Its cylindrical metal body measures 63.6 mm long with an M18 x 1 thread, allowing direct mounting into standard sensor brackets. The axial optical axis emits visible red light from an LED source, producing a 150 mm light spot at three metres with a 2.8° dispersion angle. A 270° potentiometer provides sensitivity adjustment for precise detection tuning.
Upgrading from basic proximity or through-beam units
This sensor replaces simpler inductive or capacitive proximity switches when longer range or non-contact detection of transparent and reflective objects is required. The retro-reflective principle works with a separate reflector, giving a maximum sensing range of 3.7 metres and a reliable operating range up to three metres. The jump is worthwhile when the application demands consistent detection across varying surface colours or materials that defeat diffuse-mode sensors.
Verify supply voltage and output compatibility
Before ordering, confirm that the control system supplies 10 to 30 V DC with ripple below 10 % and can accept an NPN dark-switching output rated at 100 mA. The unit draws 30 mA and switches at 250 Hz with a two-millisecond response time. A three-wire PVC cable, 3.1 mm in diameter with 0.14 mm² conductors, provides the connection. The IP67-rated nickel-plated brass housing operates from –25 °C to +70 °C and carries UL file NMFT2.E175606.
Highlights
- Detects objects up to 3.7 m with visible red LED
- NPN dark-switching output handles 100 mA load current
- Adjustable sensitivity via 270° potentiometer for precise setup
- IP67 nickel-plated brass housing withstands –25 °C to +70 °C
- 2 m PVC cable with 3-wire connection simplifies installation
Specifications
| Brand | Sick |
|---|---|
| Model | SICK VL18-3N3212 |
Questions about this item
What thread size and clearance does the M18 x 1 cylindrical housing need to mount?
The sensor uses an M18 x 1 thread and has a 63.6 mm housing length, so the mounting hole must accept that thread and allow at least 63.6 mm depth.
How do you wire the 3‑wire PVC cable and set the 270° potentiometer without triggering false switches?
Connect brown to 10‑30 V DC, blue to ground and black to the NPN load; then turn the 270° sensitivity potentiometer slowly while the reflector is in place until the output toggles cleanly at the desired distance.
When should the 2 m PVC cable or PMMA optics be inspected or replaced in an IP67 environment?
Check the Ø 3.1 mm cable jacket and PMMA lens annually for cuts, UV embrittlement or scratches that could scatter the 2.8° red‑light beam and reduce the 3.7 m maximum range.
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