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The SICK GR18 is a compact photoelectric proximity sensor designed for reliable detection of objects in industrial environments. Based on an energetic photoelectric principle, it uses infrared LED technology to detect objects within a sensing range from 3 mm to 350 mm (based on a standard white object with 90% remission, DIN 5033). With a cylindrical housing and dimensions of 18 mm x 18 mm x 73.5 mm, the GR18 offers a robust yet space-efficient design ideal for tight installations. Its NPN switching output provides complementary signal functionality, enabling precise control in automation systems. The sensor is built to deliver consistent performance under varying conditions, making it suitable for applications requiring fast response and reliable object detection.
The GR18 employs an infrared LED light source with a light spot size of Ø 150 mm (at 250 mm distance), ensuring effective coverage across different object sizes. It operates using a light/dark switching principle, detecting presence or absence based on object interruption of the infrared beam. The sensor features a response time of less than 1,000 µs with resistive loads, enabling rapid detection in dynamic environments. With an average service life of 100,000 hours at +25 °C, it offers long-term reliability. The design includes reverse-polarity protection on both V S and output terminals (A and B), enhancing safety during installation and operation.
The GR18 operates within a supply voltage range of 10 V DC to 30 V DC, with ripple less than 5 V pp. It consumes a current of 30 mA under normal conditions and has a maximum output current (I max) of ≤ 100 mA at ambient temperatures below 49 °C and voltages up to 24 V. At higher ambient temperatures (>49 °C) or supply voltages (>24 V), the I max is limited to 50 mA for safety and performance stability. The switching output is NPN with a signal voltage of approximately V S / ≤ 3 V, and it operates at a maximum switching frequency of 500 Hz. The sensor is designed for short-circuit protected networks with a maximum current limit of 8 A.
The GR18 features an M18 x 1 thread on its housing, enabling secure mounting in standard industrial enclosures or panels. It provides a complementary output function, allowing integration into control systems that require active or inactive states based on object presence. The sensor’s NPN output is compatible with most PLCs and industrial controllers. Reverse-polarity protection on both input (A) and output (B) terminals ensures safe installation even during accidental wiring errors. Its compact size and standard mounting thread make it easy to integrate into existing automation setups without requiring extensive modifications.
The GR18 is designed for operation in industrial environments with ambient temperatures ranging from -25 °C to +70 °C, provided that the maximum supply voltage does not exceed 30 V DC and ambient temperature remains below 49 °C. At temperatures above 49 °C or voltages above 24 V, output current is limited to 50 mA for safety. The sensor must be operated within its specified voltage tolerances to ensure reliable performance. It is suitable for use in clean, dry environments and should not be exposed to corrosive substances or excessive mechanical stress. Proper ventilation is recommended to maintain optimal operating conditions.
The GR18 is ideal for applications requiring precise object detection at short to medium distances, such as presence/absence sensing in assembly lines, packaging machines, and material handling systems. Its ability to detect objects from 3 mm up to 350 mm makes it suitable for detecting small components or larger parts depending on the application. The fast response time and reliable switching action ensure consistent performance in high-speed production environments. Common use cases include edge detection, part counting, and position verification where object presence must be reliably confirmed without mechanical contact.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Sensing range | max. |
| Light source | LED 2) |
| Current consumption | 30 mA |
| Switching output | NPN |
| Response time | < 1,000 µs 4) |
| Switching frequency | 500 Hz 5) |
| Connection type | Male connector M12, 4-pin |
| Protection class | III |
| Housing material | Metal, Nickel-plated brass and ABS |
| Dimensions | (W x H x D) |
| Supply voltage | U B |
| ambient temperature | > 49 °C, IA max. = 50 mA. |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 18 mm x 18 mm x 73.5 mm |
| value | IP67 |
| Thread diameter (housing) | M18 x 1 |
| Sensing range max. | 3 mm ... 350 mm 1) |
| Light spot size (distance) | Ø 150 mm (250 mm) |
| Supply voltage U B | 10 V DC ... 30 V DC 1) |
| Ripple | < 5 V pp 2) |
| Signal voltage NPN HIGH/LOW | Approx. V S / ≤ 3 V |
| Output current I max. | ≤ 100 mA 3) |
| Circuit protection | A 6) B 7) D 8) |
| Enclosure rating | IP67 |
| Ambient operating temperature | –25 °C ... +55 °C 9) |
| Ambient temperature, storage | –40 °C ... +70 °C |
| Unit weight | 52.500 Grams |
| Net unit weight | 52.5 Grams |
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