Boost efficiency with the SICK 6037837 (WFM180-120P311) Fork Sensor. Features 180mm fork width, 4kHz frequency, and PNP output for precise industrial detection.

SKU SICK-6037837 Category SICK WFM

Product Description

Product Overview

Manufacturer Part Number: 6037837
Type Code: WFM180-120P311
Product Family: WFM (Fork Sensors)
Fork Width: 180 mm
Fork Depth: 124 mm
Light Source: Visible red LED
Switching Output: PNP (Light switching)
Connection Type: Male connector M8, 3-pin

Product Description

The SICK 6037837, specifically designated as the WFM180-120P311, is a high-performance photoelectric fork sensor from the versatile WFM product family. Designed for maximum simplicity and operational reliability, this sensor features a “Plug & Play” architecture that requires no manual adjustment or teach-in process, significantly reducing installation time and potential for human error. Its wide 180 mm fork width and 124 mm fork depth make it an ideal choice for a variety of industrial sensing tasks where larger gaps are required.

Utilizing a highly visible red LED light source, the WFM180-120P311 ensures precise detection of objects as small as 1 mm. The sensor’s robust aluminum housing and IP67 rating ensure it can withstand the rigors of harsh industrial environments. With an impressive 4 kHz switching frequency and a response time of just 125 microseconds, it is perfectly suited for high-speed automated processes such as parts counting and rapid positioning. Integration is streamlined through a standard PNP output and an M8 3-pin connector. Whether used for detecting labels or monitoring small parts on conveyors, this sensor provides the high-speed accuracy and rugged durability essential for modern smart factories.

Key Performance Features

Ultra-High Speed: High switching frequency of 4,000 Hz (4 kHz) allows for reliable detection in rapid production lines.
Fast Response: Short response time of ≤ 125 µs ensures precision in high-velocity applications.
Maintenance-Free: “Plug & Play” design requires no sensitivity adjustment, simplifying setup and replacement.
Precision Detection: Minimum Detectable Object (MDO) of 1 mm allows for the sensing of very small parts.
Rugged Construction: Durable aluminum housing with an IP67 enclosure rating for resistance to dust and moisture.
Ambient Light Immunity: Resistant to interference from sunlight and industrial lighting up to 10,000 lx.
Clear Visibility: Bright red LED light spot allows for easy alignment during installation.

Ideal Applications

Parts Counting: High-speed detection and counting of small components in vibratory feeders or conveyors.
Label Detection: Precise monitoring of labels and gaps in the packaging and printing industry.
Edge Positioning: Accurate edge detection for web guiding or material positioning.
Small Object Detection: Sensing of tiny metal or plastic parts in assembly and robotics.
Level and Gap Control: Monitoring gaps between products to prevent jams or ensure proper spacing.
Tool Monitoring: Checking for tool presence or breakage in automated machining centers.

Features

Functional principle	Optical detection principle
Dimensions (W x H x D)	10 mm x 200 mm x 141.8 mm
Housing design (light emission)	Fork shaped
Fork width	180 mm
Fork depth	124 mm
Minimum detectable object (MDO)	1 mm
Light source	LED, visible red light
Adjustment	None

Mechanics/electronics

Supply voltage	10 V DC … 30 V DC ¹⁾
Ripple	< 10 % ²⁾
Current consumption	< 20 mA ³⁾
Switching frequency	4 kHz ⁴⁾
Response time	125 µs ⁵⁾
Stability of response time	± 15 µs
Switching output	PNP
Switching output (voltage)	PNP: HIGH = V_S – ≤ 1.5 V / LOW = 0 V NPN: HIGH = approx. V_S / LOW ≤ 1.5 V
Switching mode	Light switching
Output current I_max.	100 mA
Initialization time	140 ms
Connection type	Connector M8, 3-pin
Protection class	III ⁶⁾
Circuit protection	U_V connections, reverse polarity protected Output Q short-circuit protected Interference pulse suppression
Enclosure rating	IP67
Weight	Approx. 80 g … 190 g ⁷⁾
Housing material	Metal, Aluminum

¹⁾ Limit values, reverse-polarity protected, operation in short-circuit protected network: max. 8 A.
²⁾ May not exceed or fall below U_v tolerances.
³⁾ Without load.
⁴⁾ With light/dark ratio 1:1.
⁵⁾ Signal transit time with resistive load.
⁶⁾ Reference voltage DC 50 V.
⁷⁾ Depending on fork width.