Reliable Capacitive Detection

Capacitive sensors detect changes in capacitance caused by the presence of a target within their sensing field. This enables detection of both conductive and non-conductive materials depending on the sensor design and application. The technology is suitable for detecting plastic, glass, wood, paper, powders, liquids, and many other materials. Adjustable sensitivity allows the switching point to be adapted to application requirements on suitable models. This provides dependable object and material detection without mechanical contact.

Wide Range of Sensor Designs

IFM offers capacitive sensors in cylindrical and rectangular housing formats for different installation requirements. Flush sensors can be installed with the sensing face level with the surrounding mounting surface. Non-flush designs provide larger sensing ranges where installation conditions allow. Different thread sizes, probe lengths, and sensing distances make it easier to select a suitable sensor for the machine design. The range also includes dedicated capacitive touch and illuminated pushbutton solutions.

Smart IO-Link Functionality

Selected IFM capacitive sensors incorporate IO-Link communication for advanced sensor configuration and diagnostics. Parameters such as switching point, hysteresis, output configuration, and other device settings can be managed digitally on supported models. IO-Link also provides device identification and process data to compatible controllers. This reduces commissioning effort and simplifies sensor replacement. Smart communication makes capacitive sensors easier to integrate into modern Industry 4.0 automation systems.

Industrial Construction

IFM capacitive sensors are available with robust materials such as stainless steel, PBT, PC, POM, and other application-specific materials. Depending on the model, protection ratings can reach IP65, IP67, or IP69K. Short-circuit and overload protection are available on many industrial models. Wide operating-temperature ranges allow use in production, packaging, material handling, and process environments. This combination provides dependable operation with reduced maintenance requirements.

Key Features

Capacitive non-contact detection

Detection of conductive and non-conductive materials

Liquid detection

Powder and bulk-material detection

Plastic, glass, wood, paper, and granular material detection

Flush and non-flush designs

Adjustable sensing range on selected models

Different cylindrical and rectangular housing options

PNP and NPN versions

NO and NC switching functions

Automatic load detection on selected models

IO-Link 1.1 on supported models

SIO operation on IO-Link sensors

Fast switching response

Short-circuit protection on suitable models

Overload protection on suitable models

Reverse-polarity protection on suitable models

LED switching indication

Robust industrial housing

High ingress protection

Applications

Object presence detection

Product positioning

Material detection

Liquid level detection

Powder level detection

Bulk material monitoring

Conveyor automation

Packaging machinery

Filling and dosing equipment

Plastic processing

Food and beverage equipment

Material handling systems

Machine tool automation

Counting and sorting systems

Touch-operated machine controls

Sensor Selection Guide

• Select flush or non-flush installation according to the available mounting arrangement.
• Choose the required sensing distance based on the target material and installation geometry.
• Check the target material because dielectric properties influence capacitive detection.
• Select PNP or NPN output according to the connected control system.
• Choose NO or NC switching according to the required control logic.
• For advanced automation, select an IO-Link model for digital configuration and diagnostics.
• Check IP rating, temperature range, housing material, and connector type for the installation environment.

Installation & Maintenance

Install the sensor according to its specified flush or non-flush mounting requirements. Keep the sensing face correctly positioned relative to the target to maintain stable detection. Avoid unnecessary material accumulation around the sensing surface, particularly when detecting powders or sticky substances. Adjust the sensing point when required after the sensor and target material have been installed. Periodic inspection of the sensor face, mounting hardware, cable, and connector helps maintain reliable operation.

Material Detection Capability

Capacitive technology allows detection of many materials that cannot be detected easily with conventional magnetic sensing. Depending on the model, sensors can identify plastics, glass, wood, paper, liquids, powders, granules, and other non-metallic materials. Detection performance depends on the target's dielectric characteristics, size, distance, and environmental conditions. Adjustable sensors provide additional flexibility when target characteristics vary. This makes capacitive sensing particularly useful for material-presence and level-detection applications.

Automation & Process Benefits

Capacitive sensors provide non-contact switching without mechanical wear at the sensing point. This can improve reliability in high-cycle machine applications. Fast switching enables accurate object detection, counting, positioning, and control. IO-Link-enabled versions provide additional diagnostic and configuration capabilities. Together, these features support efficient, flexible, and maintainable industrial automation systems.