Sick
Sick WL8G-N1131 Photoelectric Retro-Reflective Sensor NPN
Photoelectric retro-reflective sensor detects transparent objects up to 1.7 m with visible red LED and NPN output
- Detects transparent objects with polarised retro-reflective sensing
- 11 mm x 31 mm x 20 mm housing fits tight spaces
- IP67 enclosure resists dust and water ingress
- NPN output with selectable light/dark switching via 270° potentiometer
- 7 m sensing range on 650 nm visible red LED
Compact Retro-Reflective Sensor
The SICK WL8G-N1131 is a rectangular photoelectric retro-reflective sensor with autocollimation, designed for industrial detection tasks. Its visible red LED emits at 650 nm and produces a 70 mm spot at two metres. The NPN output switches at up to 1,000 Hz with a 0.5 ms response time. A 270° potentiometer adjusts sensitivity, and a light/dark rotary switch selects the switching mode. The ABS housing measures 11 mm x 31 mm x 20 mm and carries an IP67 enclosure rating.
Upgrade From Basic Proximity Switches
This sensor replaces simple inductive or capacitive proximity switches when the application requires detection of transparent objects across longer distances. The retro-reflective principle with polarisation filter enables reliable sensing of clear glass or film where diffuse sensors fail. The jump is worth it when the target material is transparent, sensing range must reach 1.7 m, or the mounting space demands the compact 11 mm width. It operates on 10 V DC to 30 V DC supply with ±10 % ripple tolerance.
Sustained Operation Under Load
Under continuous operation the sensor draws 30 mA and delivers up to 100 mA output current with signal voltage below 1.8 V in the low state. Circuit protection covers reverse polarity, short-circuit and overload conditions. The PVC-jacketed three-wire cable extends two metres and resists typical industrial environments. Attenuation along the light beam is rated at 15 %, ensuring stable switching even with gradual contamination of the reflector. Ambient operating temperature range supports demanding production lines.
Highlights
- Detects transparent objects with polarised retro-reflective sensing
- 11 mm x 31 mm x 20 mm housing fits tight spaces
- IP67 enclosure resists dust and water ingress
- NPN output with selectable light/dark switching via 270° potentiometer
- 7 m sensing range on 650 nm visible red LED
Specifications
| Brand | SICK |
|---|---|
| Model | SICK WL8G-N1131 |
Questions about this item
What are the exact housing dimensions for mounting the WL8G-N1131?
The rectangular ABS housing measures 11 mm wide, 31 mm high and 20 mm deep, and a stainless steel bracket (1.4301/304) is supplied.
How do I wire the 3-wire cable and set the light/dark mode correctly?
Connect brown to 10–30 V DC, blue to 0 V and black to the NPN load; then turn the 270° rotary switch to the desired mode — the step often missed is confirming the selector clicks into position.
When should the supplied P250F reflector or the front PMMA optics be cleaned or replaced?
Clean both whenever dust or residue reduces the 15 % attenuation margin; replace the reflector if its surface is scratched or the sensor no longer reaches 1.7 m on transparent objects.
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