Sick
Sick VL18-4N3712 photoelectric retro-reflective sensor NPN
Photoelectric retro-reflective sensor with 0.05 m to 3.7 m sensing range, NPN output, IP67 housing and 2 m cable
- Retro-reflective detection up to 3.7 m range
- NPN output with selectable light/dark switching mode
- IP67 enclosure resists dust and water ingress
- Operates from –25 °C to +70 °C ambient
- 2 m PVC cable with four 0.14 mm² conductors
Sick VL18-4N3712 retro-reflective sensor
The Sick VL18-4N3712 is a cylindrical photoelectric retro-reflective sensor designed for industrial detection tasks. It operates on a 10 V DC to 30 V DC supply and provides an NPN switching output with selectable light or dark switching via an L/D control cable. The sensor suits automation engineers and electricians needing reliable object detection within a 3.7 m maximum range.
Check supply voltage and wiring before ordering
Verify that your control system provides a 10 V DC to 30 V DC source with ripple below 10 % and can accept an NPN output rated at 100 mA. Ensure the 4-wire PVC cable with 0.14 mm² conductors and 5 mm diameter matches your terminal or connector requirements. Confirm the M18 x 1 thread and 63.6 mm housing length fit the available mounting space and that the IP67 rating meets the environmental conditions.
Potentiometer and polarisation filter aid setup
A 270° sensitivity potentiometer allows precise adjustment of the switching threshold for the visible red LED beam. The integrated polarisation filter improves detection reliability on reflective targets by suppressing unwanted reflections. The 2 m pre-wired cable eliminates the need for separate connector assemblies, reducing installation time and potential failure points.
Highlights
- Retro-reflective detection up to 3.7 m range
- NPN output with selectable light/dark switching mode
- IP67 enclosure resists dust and water ingress
- Operates from –25 °C to +70 °C ambient
- 2 m PVC cable with four 0.14 mm² conductors
Specifications
| Brand | SICK |
|---|---|
| Model | SICK VL18-4N3712 |
Questions about this item
What comes in the box and do I need to buy a reflector or mounting hardware separately?
The sensor ships with a 2 m PVC cable already attached; a retro-reflective target and any M18 mounting bracket or nut are not included and must be sourced separately.
How do I choose between the maximum 3.7 m range and the rated 3 m sensing range for my application?
Use the 3 m figure for reliable detection with standard reflectors; the 3.7 m maximum is only achievable under ideal conditions with high-efficiency targets.
What does the 250 Hz switching frequency mean when the sensor is installed on a conveyor line?
It allows the sensor to resolve objects or gaps spaced as little as 2 ms apart, suitable for fast-moving packaging or sorting lines.
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