33.3 x 11 x 21 mm³ – with these dimensions the W8 Inox series is one of the most space-saving photoelectric switches in SICK’s portfolio of miniature sensors. In addition, the housing is characterized by maximum robustness. It is made of stainless steel (1.4404/SUS316L), and only plastics suitable for contact with food – and which also exhibit high resistance to chemicals such as acids, alkalis, oils and alcohols – are used for the control elements. The transparent high-performance plastic (polyphenylene sulfide) used for the sensor’s front screen withstands even caustic detergents and disinfectants at high temperatures. The selection of robust materials is supplemented by a device design and production techniques that combine to achieve a strong IP69K connection between the housing, lid, control elements and front screen. As a result, wash-down processes (i.e. the external high-pressure cleaning of plants using detergent and disinfectant chemicals) do not impair the stability and availability of the W8 Inox. The series’ robustness makes it an ideal and sustainable sensor solution for use in, for example, filling plants in breweries, dairies and at beverage producers, in de-boning and processing machines in the meat industry, or in production and packaging plants for noodles, biscuits and other foods.
High flexibility and easy integration
The W8 Inox series consists of energetic photoelectric proximity switches, photoelectric proximity switches with background suppression (optionally short-range or long-range suppression), a through-beam photoelectric switch, and a photoelectric reflex switch, offering the ideal device for the particular detection task. A variety of applications in a machine or plant requiring robust and space-saving sensors can thus be solved with devices from a single series. The fact that the M3 mounting system of the W8 Inox has a hole distance of 25.4 mm (1 inch) that is compatible both within the series and beyond it, and is common in the packaging sector, is advantageous for design and mechanical integration. The most suitable sensor type can always be mounted without changing the drilling pattern. Electrical connection takes place either via an M8 plug or a 300-mm-long connection cable with M12 plug – as is also common practice in packaging systems.
Reliable operation, flexible and sustainable function, and future-oriented – the new W8 Inox miniature photoelectric switch is designed to meet the requirements of packaging machines and plant that offer little mounting space, a harsh operating environment and the most varied of tasks.