For your applications, are you expecting optical sensors that solve demanding tasks, follow fast process speeds, and exhibit a high degree of availability in harsh industrial environments? In that case, the W12-3 is the right choice.

SICK will be presenting the new W12-3 series of photoelectric switches for the first time at the 2007 SPS/IPC/DRIVES Trade Fair in Nuremberg. The W12-3 offers superb performance in a metal housing – reliable object detection and maximum availability in an industrial environment, coupled with comprehensive sensor monitoring, underscores the substantial lead by comparison with conventional opto-sensors.

Sensor platform with know-how

The W12-3 builds on the wealth of experience and the application expertise derived from the previous W12 models that have been setting standards in automation for over a decade. Featuring different functional principles, the new W12-3 also covers a wide range of uses in the most diverse areas of automation technology. For instance, the WSE12-3 through-beam photoelectric switch is the ideal solution in applications that demand greater reserves of performance or very long ranges. The WL12-3 photoelectric reflex switch using the principle of autocollimation is particularly suited for reliable object detection at extremely close ranges. From the PET bottle to the transparent foil, the WL12G-3 ensures reliable detection of transparent objects. The scanners in the series deliver optimum
detection results both by means of foreground suppression (WTF12-3) and background suppression (WTB12-3). In addition, they can be integrated in fieldbus environments via IO link. These features permit, among other things, the realization of preventive maintenance and servicing measures as well as a considerable reduction of changeover times.

Excellent in an extreme environment

Process reliability and dependability in any ambient conditions is the top priority for the W12-3. For this reason, the entire production series features a robust, high pressure-resistant metal housing that conforms to the requirements of the IP 69K protection rating. As well, resistance to cleaning and disinfecting agents, and lubricating oils opens up a variety of possible applications in harsh operating conditions – and all of that within a temperature range from –40 °C to +60 °C. If requirements are even more extreme, the W12-3 is also available with an optional Teflon coating.

Innovative and individual: sensor technology of the finest quality

Using the W12-3 allows solving more safely and dependably any demanding applications in which precision matters most. This is made possible, among other things, by the small, exact light spot serving to detect objects with better accuracy. Interfering optical reflections from the surroundings are detected and suppressed reliably. The short response time guarantees secure detection at high process speeds. Two status LEDs for operating voltage and light reception, visible very well from all directions, permit a straightforward and effective sensor diagnosis.

W12-3: simply fits anytime and anywhere

The great variety of attachment options, e.g. dovetail mounting or the reinforced mounting holes, guarantees maximum freedom for mounting. Rotatable plug or cable connectors permit a flexible choice of cable laying. Just place the object in the beam path, press the button and voilà – adjusting the scanning range setting by means of teach-in saves time and is very user-friendly. The W12-3 constitutes an impressive example of SICK’s technological leadership and solution competence in the field of industrial automation.