Waldkirch, November 2007 – Robust, powerful and with IO Link – the new W12-3 series of photoelectric switches from SICK. Reliable object detection and maximum availability in industrial environments, coupled with comprehensive sensor monitoring, underline its clear lead over conventional opto-sensors. Thus the series, which SICK is presenting for the first time at the SPS/IPC/DRIVES 2007 trade fair in Nuremberg, sets the new standard for automation under demanding conditions.

The W12-3 series of photoelectric switches, with its innovative chip technology, has been designed as a broad platform for solving the most varied of automation tasks in difficult situations.

Ideal for all object distances

The WSE12-3 through-beam photoelectric switch is the ideal solution for applications in which very long ranges of up to 20 m, or greater performance reserves, are necessary, e.g. in order to ensure high detection reliability in an environment in which contamination may occur. With its autocollimation principle, the WL12-3 photoelectric reflex switch is particularly suitable for reliable object detection – at ultra-short-range or at long distances.

The scanners: communicative and powerful

The photoelectric proximity switches of the series are also suitable for small objects thanks to their small light spot – and offer an IO Link option. The reasonably priced conversion of the sensor’s switching output to a communication interface can be used for, among other things, parameter downloads from a machine controller or wide-ranging remote diagnosis. The detection results are ideal with foreground suppression (the WTF12-3) or with background suppression (WTB12-3) – not least because reflections from the surroundings that could cause optical interference are reliably detected and suppressed by the innovative chip technology. Dampness, electromagnetic sources of interference, flashlights or vibrations also have no effect on the reliable function of the device.

Rapid detection, universal mounting, simple diagnosis

Thanks to their short response times, all the devices in the series can also reliably detect objects at rapid process speeds. In use on the machine, two 360° LEDs (offering good all-round vision) for operating voltage and light reception permit simple and effective diagnosis of the current sensor status. Versatile installation using, for example, dovetail mounting or reinforced mounting holes, guarantees maximum mounting freedom. Pivoting plug or cable connections permit the flexible laying of cables.

Excellent in extreme environments

Process reliability and dependability under all environmental conditions are the top priority for the entire W12-3 series. For this reason, all devices have a robust, highly pressure-resistant metal housing that meets the demands of enclosure rating IP69k. Resistance to detergents, disinfectants and lubricants opens up a wide variety of applications under harsh operating conditions – and all this within a temperature range of -40°C to +60°C. The W12-3 is also available as a Teflon-coated option if more extreme demands have to be met.

Robust, precise, intelligent: those seeking optical sensors that can solve demanding tasks, keep up with rapid process speeds, and provide high availability in harsh industrial conditions, have made exactly the right choice with the new W12-3 from SICK.