SICK WT18 – 3P431 Photoelectric Sensor 1026032

The SICK WT18-3P431 is a robust, high-performance background suppression photoelectric sensor designed for reliable object detection and precise positioning in demanding industrial environments. Part of the versatile WT18 family, this sensor uses advanced optics and integrated electronics to detect objects only within a defined sensing range, ignoring any surfaces beyond that point.

This model is a fundamental component for automation tasks requiring accuracy, consistency, and resistance to environmental interference.

Key Features & Benefits

• Advanced Background Suppression (BGS): Utilizes a precise optical triangulation principle to detect objects exactly at a predefined distance (150mm). It reliably ignores any objects or surfaces behind the set point, eliminating false triggers and ensuring highly accurate detection.

• Fixed Sensing Range: Comes with a pre-configured 150mm (0.15m) sensing range, making it simple to install and use without complex adjustments.

• Pin-Point Red LED Light Spot: The visible red light spot is extremely small and focused, allowing for precise detection of small parts and easy alignment during setup and maintenance.

• Polarization Filter: Effectively suppresses false signals from reflective surfaces (like metal or glossy plastic), ensuring the sensor only responds to the target object.

• Potentiometer-Free Design: As a “SEO” (Set End of Output) variant, this sensor has no user-adjustable potentiometers. The sensing window is factory-fixed, guaranteeing long-term stability and preventing accidental or unauthorized changes to the settings.

• Rugged Metal Housing: The sturdy nickel-plated brass housing and high-quality glass lens offer excellent resistance to mechanical impact, chemicals, and cleaning agents, making it suitable for harsh industrial and washdown applications.

• Fixed Cable Connection: The integrated 2m PVC cable provides a reliable, strain-relieved connection, eliminating the need for a separate connector and simplifying installation.

Technical Specifications

• Order Code / Part Number: 1026032

• Article Number: WT18-3P431

• Sensor Principle: Photoelectric, Background Suppression (BGS)

• Sensing Range: 150 mm (fixed)

• Light Source: Red LED, Visible Red Light

• Output Type: PNP, Normally Open (NO)

• Output Function: Light/Dark Switching (selectable)

• Connection: 2-meter, 4-pin PVC Cable

• Housing Material: Nickel-plated Brass

• Degree of Protection: IP67 (Dust-tight and protected against temporary immersion)

• Approvals: CE, CULus

Applications

The SICK WT18-3P431 is ideal for applications requiring precise detection at a specific distance, including:

• Object Presence Verification on conveyor belts

• Counting and Sorting of small parts

• Detection of Opaque Objects in packaging machinery

• Positioning and End-position Monitoring in assembly automation

• Robotics for part-in-place verification