SICK WL18-3 Photoelectric Sensor
Description
SICK WL18-3 Photoelectric Sensor
Product Category: Photoelectric Sensor / Industrial Automation Sensor
Brand: SICK
Series: W18-3 / WL18-3
Product Type: Photoelectric Retro-Reflective Sensor
The SICK WL18-3 Photoelectric Sensor is designed for reliable object detection in industrial automation applications. The W18-3 family is developed for demanding environments where accurate and dependable detection is important. SICK highlights the series for reliable object detection, strong optical performance, compact construction and resistance to ambient-light interference.
Note: WL18-3 has multiple variants, so exact sensing range, connection, output and electrical specifications can differ by part number. The specifications below are therefore kept variant-safe. For example, SICK's WL18-3N430 variant has a 0–5 m sensing range and 10–30 V DC supply.
SICK WL18-3 Photoelectric Sensor – Product Description
The SICK WL18-3 Photoelectric Sensor is a compact industrial sensing solution used to detect objects without physical contact. It uses optical sensing technology to identify the presence or absence of objects and can be integrated into automated machinery and production systems.
The W18-3 series offers different sensing principles and configurations, including retro-reflective, background-suppression and through-beam versions, allowing users to select a suitable sensor according to the application.
Its compact rectangular housing makes it suitable for installation where machine space is limited, while the available adjustment options help simplify sensor setup. SICK also offers variants with advanced diagnostics and IO-Link communication.
Key Features
Genuine SICK industrial photoelectric sensor
WL18-3 / W18-3 series
Reliable non-contact object detection
Photoelectric retro-reflective sensing principle in applicable WL18-3 variants
Visible red LED light available on several variants
Compact rectangular housing
Potentiometer or teach-in adjustment depending on variant
Designed for industrial automation applications
Multiple electrical and connection configurations available
Certain variants offer IO-Link communication
IP65/IP67 protection is available across the W18-3 family depending on configuration
Technical Details
Specification Details
Brand SICK
Series W18-3
Model WL18-3
Sensor Type Photoelectric Sensor
Sensing Principle Retro-reflective, depending on variant
Light Source LED
Light Type Visible red / infrared depending on variant
Housing Rectangular plastic housing
Adjustment Potentiometer / Teach-in depending on model
Protection IP65 / IP67 depending on variant
Dimensions Approx. 17.6 × 75.5 × 33.5 mm for listed W18-3 variants
Supply Voltage Variant dependent; e.g. 10–30 V DC for WL18-3N430
Sensing Range Variant dependent; e.g. 0–5 m for WL18-3N430
The dimensions and electrical specifications above are based on SICK's published W18-3/WL18-3 documentation; the exact part number should be checked before purchasing or replacing a sensor.
Applications
The SICK WL18-3 series can be used for applications such as:
Conveyor object detection
Packaging machinery
Material handling systems
Automated production lines
Machine automation
Product counting
Position detection
Object presence/absence detection
Industrial assembly machines
Logistics and warehouse automation
SICK positions its photoelectric sensors for industrial applications including logistics, packaging, automotive, electronics, food & beverage and material-handling environments.
Why Choose SICK WL18-3?
SICK is an established industrial sensor and automation technology brand. Its product portfolio covers sensors, safety systems, machine vision, encoders and automatic identification solutions for industrial applications.
The WL18-3 series combines compact design, reliable optical detection and multiple configuration options, making it suitable for OEM machinery, automation systems and industrial replacement requirements.
Brand Value for Your Website
SICK WL18-3 – Reliable Industrial Sensing for Automation
For businesses looking for a dependable SICK photoelectric sensor, the WL18-3 series provides a practical solution for automated object detection. Its established industrial design, optical performance and availability in different configurations make it suitable for integration into a wide range of automation systems.
FAQs
What is a SICK WL18-3 Photoelectric Sensor?
The SICK WL18-3 is a photoelectric sensor from the W18-3 series used for non-contact detection of objects in industrial automation applications.
What is the WL18-3 sensor used for?
It can be used for object detection, presence detection, counting and positioning in machinery, conveyors, packaging and automated production systems.
Is WL18-3 a proximity sensor?
The WL18-3 designation commonly refers to retro-reflective photoelectric sensor variants within the W18-3 family. Other W18-3 configurations use different sensing principles.
What is the sensing range of WL18-3?
The sensing range depends on the exact part number. For example, SICK's WL18-3N430 is specified with a 0–5 m sensing range and a maximum range of 7 m under the stated reflector conditions.
What voltage does the SICK WL18-3 use?
This depends on the specific variant. The WL18-3N430 datasheet specifies 10–30 V DC.
Where can I buy a SICK WL18-3 Photoelectric Sensor?
You should specify the complete SICK part number when requesting a quotation because WL18-3 has several variants with different specifications and connections.
