Product Overview

The SICK CQ capacitive proximity sensor is a robust, rectangular housing design designed for reliable detection of non-conductive materials without physical contact. It operates using capacitive sensing technology to detect changes in capacitance caused by nearby objects, making it ideal for identifying plastics, ceramics, and other dielectric materials. With a non-flush installation type, the sensor offers flexibility in mounting configurations across various industrial environments. The CQ series ensures consistent performance through precise sensing range control and built-in safety features, including a safe sensing range of 18 mm. Its PNP switching output with complementary function provides reliable signal transmission for integration into existing control systems. Designed for continuous operation under demanding conditions, the CQ sensor delivers dependable detection in applications where material presence must be monitored accurately and safely.

Key Features and Technology

The CQ capacitive proximity sensor leverages advanced capacitive sensing technology to detect non-conductive materials within a defined range. It features a safe sensing range of 18 mm, ensuring reliable operation in safety-critical environments. The sensor operates at a switching frequency of 50 Hz and provides a PNP output with complementary function, enabling compatibility with standard industrial logic circuits. Its electrical design includes short-circuit protection and power-up pulse protection to safeguard against electrical faults during operation. The capacitive sensing principle ensures minimal interference from environmental factors such as temperature or surface conditions, maintaining consistent detection performance. However, in EMC-sensitive applications, conducted interference within the oscillator frequency range may affect output signals—this is noted in operating instructions for proper system design.

Technical Characteristics

The CQ sensor has a sensing range (S_n) of 4 mm to 25 mm and a safe sensing range (S_a) of 18 mm. It operates with a supply voltage between 10 V DC and 36 V DC, featuring a ripple of ≤10% and a voltage drop of ≤2.5 V DC under standard conditions. The current consumption is 10 mA, with a continuous current (I_a) limit of ≤200 mA. Temperature drift in sensing range (S_r) is ±10%, ensuring stable performance across ambient temperature variations. The sensor uses a 4-wire DC electrical wiring configuration and has an IP67 enclosure rating, providing protection against dust ingress and temporary immersion in water. All specifications are valid under standard supply voltage (U_B) and constant ambient temperature (T_a). Short-circuit protection is included to prevent damage during faults.

Configuration and Integration

The CQ sensor connects via a male M12, 4-pin connector, enabling secure and standardized integration into industrial control systems. Its PNP switching output with complementary function ensures compatibility with most PLCs and logic controllers. The 4-wire DC wiring configuration allows for separate power and signal routing, reducing noise and improving signal integrity. Installation is non-flush, allowing mounting on surfaces without requiring flush alignment. This design simplifies integration into existing machinery or automation systems where space constraints or surface conditions limit flush mounting options. Proper system design should account for electromagnetic interference (EMI), especially in environments with high conducted noise that may affect the oscillator frequency range.

Operating Environment

The CQ capacitive proximity sensor is rated IP67, offering full protection against dust and temporary immersion in water up to 1 meter depth. It operates reliably under standard ambient conditions with a supply voltage of 10 V DC to 36 V DC. Performance is maintained within specified limits when ambient temperature remains constant (T_a) and supply voltage (U_B) is stable. The sensor is designed for continuous operation in industrial settings where environmental exposure may vary, but it must be used within its defined operating parameters. In EMC-critical applications, conducted interference within the oscillator frequency range can influence output signals—users are advised to consult the operating instructions for mitigation strategies.

Industrial Applications

The CQ capacitive proximity sensor is suitable for detecting non-conductive materials such as plastics, paper, and ceramics in manufacturing and packaging processes. It is commonly used in automated lines where material presence must be monitored without physical contact. Applications include level detection in containers, object counting, and position sensing in assembly systems. Its safe sensing range of 18 mm supports use in safety-critical environments where reliable detection is essential. The sensor’s robust IP67 rating makes it ideal for use in harsh or wet environments such as food processing, chemical handling, or automotive production lines. Its compact dimensions (35 mm × 69.5 mm × 15 mm) and non-flush mounting allow integration into tight spaces without compromising performance.