Sick
Sick VL18-4P6640 Photoelectric retro-reflective sensor PNP M18 78 mm 0.05-3.7 m IP67
Photoelectric retro-reflective sensor with PNP output, M18 cylindrical housing, 0.05-3.7 m sensing range, and IP67 enclosure rating
- Retro-reflective detection up to 3.7 m range
- PNP output with selectable light/dark switching
- M18 cylindrical housing, 78 mm long
- IP67 rated for harsh environments
- 10–30 V DC supply, 250 Hz switching
Sensor purpose and audience
The Sick VL18-4P6640 is a cylindrical photoelectric retro-reflective sensor with an M18 thread and 78 mm housing length. It targets automation engineers and maintenance technicians who need reliable presence detection on conveyors, packaging lines or material-handling equipment. The PNP switching output and selectable light/dark mode suit standard 10-30 V DC control circuits. Buyers who require a through-beam or diffuse sensing principle, or a different thread size, should choose another model.
Bundled items and software impact
No accessories, reflectors, mounting brackets or configuration software are mentioned in the supplied data. The sensor ships with a 4-pin M12 male connector only, so the installer must source a compatible cable, a suitable reflector and any mounting hardware separately. Without these additions the device cannot complete a detection path or connect to the control system.
Practical limits of the interface
The sensor operates on 10-30 V DC with a maximum output current of 100 mA and a switching frequency of 250 Hz. Its infrared LED produces a 150 mm light spot at 3 m with a 2.8° dispersion angle. The sensing range extends from 0.05 m to 3.7 m, while the specified operating range is 0.05 m to 3 m. The IP67 enclosure rating and –25 °C to +70 °C temperature span define the environmental boundaries for continuous operation.
Highlights
- Retro-reflective detection up to 3.7 m range
- PNP output with selectable light/dark switching
- M18 cylindrical housing, 78 mm long
- IP67 rated for harsh environments
- 10–30 V DC supply, 250 Hz switching
Specifications
| Brand | SICK |
|---|---|
| Model | SICK VL18-4P6640 |
Questions about this item
Will the LED light source or the PMMA optics need periodic replacement?
The sensor uses an integrated LED and PMMA optics with no user-replaceable parts; the IP67-rated PBT/PC housing protects both for the operating life.
What limits continuous operation at the 250 Hz switching frequency?
The 2 ms response time and 100 mA maximum output current define the sustained switching capability; the 10–30 V DC supply must stay within ripple limits.
How much heat does the sensor generate when running all day on a 24 V supply?
At 30 mA current draw the dissipation stays low; the IP67 enclosure and –25 °C to +70 °C ambient rating are designed for continuous duty without extra cooling.
Also in this aisle
People compared these
Same shelf, same checkout — eight coins and a 30-minute rate lock.



