Sick
Sick VTF18-3P5740 photoelectric proximity sensor PNP
Photoelectric proximity sensor with background blanking detects objects up to 45 mm using infrared light and a focused 3 mm spot at 25 mm distance
- Detects objects up to 45 mm with focused infrared LED
- Background blanking ignores reflections beyond the set sensing range
- PNP dark-switching output handles 100 mA loads at 250 Hz
- IP67-rated PBT/PC housing withstands –25 °C to +70 °C
- M12 4-pin connector simplifies wiring on 10–30 V DC supply
Sick VTF18-3P5740 photoelectric sensor
The Sick VTF18-3P5740 is a cylindrical photoelectric proximity sensor with background blanking for industrial detection tasks. It operates on 10 V DC to 30 V DC and provides a PNP dark-switching output suitable for automation systems. The sensing range reaches 45 mm with a maximum of 50 mm using focused infrared optics.
Installing the M18 threaded sensor
The M18 x 1 thread allows direct mounting into a matching hole and the 78 mm housing length fits standard brackets. A 4-pin M12 male connector simplifies wiring without soldering. Sensing range is adjusted by a 270° potentiometer; incorrect setting can reduce the effective range below 45 mm. The IP67 enclosure resists water and dust but the plastic PBT/PC housing can crack under heavy mechanical impact.
Limits of the 10–30 V DC PNP interface
The sensor draws up to 30 mA and the switching output is limited to 100 mA, so it cannot drive high-power loads directly. Switching frequency is 250 Hz with a 2 ms response time, which restricts use on very fast production lines. Operating temperature spans –25 °C to +70 °C; outside this range the sensor may malfunction. The focused spot is Ø 3 mm at 25 mm distance, limiting detection of very small objects at longer ranges.
Highlights
- Detects objects up to 45 mm with focused infrared LED
- Background blanking ignores reflections beyond the set sensing range
- PNP dark-switching output handles 100 mA loads at 250 Hz
- IP67-rated PBT/PC housing withstands –25 °C to +70 °C
- M12 4-pin connector simplifies wiring on 10–30 V DC supply
Specifications
| Brand | SICK |
|---|---|
| Model | SICK VTF18-3P5740 |
Questions about this item
How can I confirm the VTF18-3P5740 sensor is detecting correctly after wiring it to a 24 V DC supply?
The PNP dark-switching output goes low when an object enters the 0–45 mm range; watch the load LED or PLC input toggle at up to 250 Hz with a 2 ms response time.
What ships with the VTF18-3P5740 and what must I source separately?
The sensor body with M18×1 threads and M12 4-pin male connector is included; you must supply a 10–30 V DC power source and a matching M12 4-pin cable or field-wireable plug.
Which sensing-distance version of the VTF18-3P5740 should I choose for a 40 mm target gap?
This model’s fixed sensing range is 0–45 mm with background blanking, so it covers a 40 mm gap; no alternative range versions are offered for this part number.
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