Sick
Sick VL18-3P3640 photoelectric retro-reflective sensor PNP
Cylindrical photoelectric retro-reflective sensor with 50 mm to 3.7 m range, PNP dark-switching output, M12 connector, IP67-rated plastic housing
- Reliable detection up to 3.7 m with visible red LED
- Fast 250 Hz switching suits high-speed automation
- M12 4-pin connector enables quick installation
- IP67 rated housing withstands dust and water jets
- Operates from –25 °C to +70 °C for harsh environments
SICK VL18-3P3640 retro-reflective sensor
The SICK VL18-3P3640 is a cylindrical photoelectric retro-reflective sensor with an M18 x 1 thread and 78 mm housing length. It operates on 10 V DC to 30 V DC supply voltage with a PNP dark-switching output. The sensor suits automation tasks requiring object detection up to 3.7 m maximum range using visible red light.
Thermals noise and power consumption
The unit draws 30 mA current consumption with a 2 ms response time and 250 Hz switching frequency. Protection class III and IP67 enclosure rating guard against dust and water ingress during normal operation. Ambient operating temperature spans –25 °C to +70 °C for reliable performance in harsh environments.
Build quality connectors and mounting
The plastic PBT/PC housing and PMMA optics keep weight at 100 g while maintaining durability. Connection uses a male M12 4-pin connector for secure wiring. M18 threading allows direct mounting into standard threaded holes. Circuit protection A B C D and UL file NMFT2.E175606 support industrial compliance. Not for applications needing polarised retro-reflection or background suppression.
Highlights
- Reliable detection up to 3.7 m with visible red LED
- Fast 250 Hz switching suits high-speed automation
- M12 4-pin connector enables quick installation
- IP67 rated housing withstands dust and water jets
- Operates from –25 °C to +70 °C for harsh environments
Specifications
| Brand | Sick |
|---|---|
| Model | SICK VL18-3P3640 |
Questions about this item
How do I mount and wire the VL18-3P3640 sensor, and what step is often missed?
Screw the M18 × 1 threaded barrel into a bracket until the sensing face sits flush, then plug the 4-pin M12 connector; the step often missed is confirming the 10–30 V DC supply stays within 10 % ripple so the PNP dark-switching output works reliably.
What maintenance or replacement will the VL18-3P3640 need over time?
Clean the PMMA optics periodically to keep the 2.8° beam and 150 mm spot at 3 m clear; replace the unit if the IP67 seal fails or the housing cracks, as there are no user-serviceable parts inside.
What limit appears first when the VL18-3P3640 runs continuously in a hot environment?
The 70 °C ambient operating ceiling is reached before the 250 Hz switching frequency or 2 ms response time become constraints, so ensure enclosure ventilation keeps the sensor below that temperature.
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