Several series of photoelectric switches from SICK have recently received positive evaluations from the Fraunhofer Institute for Chemical Technology (ICT) and the testing company Ecolab.The sensors of the W2, W9, W12 and MH15 device families passed ICT’s IP 69K tests. Furthermore, the W11 and W12 Teflon proved their resistance to acidic and alkaline detergents in Ecolab tests.

>> ICT’s test results were particularly interesting. Six series – including four from SICK – took part in the IP 69K test. Five of them – including all of SICK ’s sensors – passed the test. The only sensor that failed was not helped in the least by its producer’s specification of IP 69K capability – the device simply filled up or “sank”.

No problems with acidic or alkaline detergents

The Teflon version of the W12 also participated when Ecolab tested the chemical immunity of photoelectric switches. Together with a W11 sensor, the two devices completed a 28-day “diving course” in six different detergents which, according to Ecolab, are in widespread international use in the food and beverages industries. In the subsequent visual assessment, the materials used in the optics and housing showed no signs of cloudiness, swelling, brittleness or changes in colour.
The testing of other sensor series from SICK, including the W18-3 and W27-3, is in preparation. They use the same plastic and are manufactured with the same production techniques. The high quality standards applied to material selection and sensor production lead one to expect further “strong” results and “unclouded” satisfaction about them.

>> Back to article review