SICK VL18-4N3740 Retro-Reflective Photoelectric Sensor

SICK VL18-4N3740 Photoelectric Sensor – High-Precision Retro-Reflective Detection

The SICK VL18-4N3740 photoelectric retro-reflective sensor delivers stable, long-range object detection for demanding automation tasks where reliability and precision are essential. Designed with a robust M18 cylindrical housing and visible red LED light, it achieves a sensing range of 0.05 to 3 m with the C110A reflector and provides consistent performance even in harsh industrial environments. Its fast response time, adjustable sensitivity, and compact 18 mm form factor make it ideal for machine builders seeking dependable detection in packaging, logistics, and assembly automation applications. With an IP67 enclosure and wide operating temperature range, it ensures durability in real-world production environments.

The SICK VL18-4N3740 enhances automation reliability by combining long sensing distances with rapid ≤2 ms response speed, enabling precise detection of fast-moving parts on conveyors or indexing systems. The integrated potentiometer allows fine-tuning for environments with reflective surfaces or variable target sizes, while the NPN switching output supports straightforward integration with existing control systems. Its high-quality optical design maintains a stable, focused light spot at long distances, reducing false triggers and improving operational uptime. With IP67 housing, polarity protection, and resistance to electrical noise, the sensor delivers long-term performance in manufacturing, material handling, and automated inspection setups.

Why SICK VL18-4N3740?

The SICK VL18-4N3740 is designed for users who demand dependable object detection in fast, dynamic industrial environments. Its long sensing range, rapid response, and adjustable sensitivity allow it to adapt seamlessly to changing materials, distances, and machine speeds—making it a standout choice for applications where accuracy, uptime, and stability are non-negotiable.

What Problem Does It Solve?

The VL18-4N3740 eliminates inconsistent detection, false triggers, and downtime caused by reflective surfaces or unpredictable object positions. With its focused red LED beam, noise-resistant electronics, and rugged IP67 housing, it ensures reliable detection even in dusty, vibrating, or high-speed production lines—keeping automation smooth, accurate, and maintenance-free.

Key Features & Specifications – SICK VL18-4N3740: 6013614

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Commercial Information – SICK VL18-4N3740 (6013614)

The Applications of SICK VL18-4N3740

1. High-Speed Conveyor Package Detection

In distribution centers, packages move at high speed and vary in color, shape, and surface reflectivity. The VL18-4N3740 solves the common challenge of detecting dark or glossy parcels that standard sensors often miss. Its narrow 2.8° focused red LED beam maintains consistent detection even when cartons pass closely together or bounce slightly on the belt. With a fast ≤2 ms response time, the sensor reliably triggers diverters, barcode scanners, or counting systems without lag. The IP67 housing also ensures stable performance amid dust, vibration, and temperature shifts common in logistics facilities, reducing downtime and misreads.

2. Position Verification in Automated Assembly Lines

Precision assembly lines require exact part presence verification before each process step. The VL18-4N3740 is ideal for detecting small mechanical components entering fixtures, welding stations, or robotic grippers. Its adjustable sensitivity lets engineers fine-tune the sensor to distinguish between parts that look similar but differ slightly in reflectivity or surface finish. The long sensing range up to 3 m provides installation flexibility, especially when mechanical constraints limit placement. Its immunity to electrical noise helps maintain stable operation around servo motors, drives, and pneumatic systems. This ensures consistent part verification, reducing stoppages and improving cycle efficiency.

3. Pallet and Container Detection in Warehouse Automation

Automated storage systems frequently struggle with detecting pallets or totes made of mixed materials—wood, plastic, or metal—with inconsistent reflective properties. The VL18-4N3740’s polarizing filter helps eliminate false triggers from shiny pallet wrap or steel edges. Its visible red LED makes alignment simple when installing the sensor on conveyors, shuttle systems, or palletizers. The strong optical reach allows it to detect large pallets at varying angles, even when loads are not perfectly positioned. With IP67 protection, the sensor withstands occasional impacts, moisture, and airborne particles found in heavy-duty warehouse environments, supporting reliable, uninterrupted pallet-flow monitoring.

4. Machine Guarding and Access Monitoring

Industrial equipment often requires basic entry-point detection to ensure operators do not reach into hazardous zones during automated cycles. The VL18-4N3740 can be mounted at machine openings to detect hands, tools, or materials entering protected spaces. Its retro-reflective setup provides a single-sided installation, ideal for tight machines where wiring both sides is impractical. The sensor’s fast switching and stable optical signal help ensure immediate detection even with variations in ambient lighting or background reflections. Its robust IP67 construction withstands coolants, oil mist, and mechanical vibration commonly present around CNC machines, presses, and automated cutting systems, contributing to safer operations.

The Applications of SICK VL18-4N3740

1. High-Speed Conveyor Package Detection

Modern logistics centers rely on fast conveyors where parcels vary widely in size, shape, and surface finish. The VL18-4N3740 helps overcome the common issue of unreliable detection caused by glossy tape, dark packaging, or packages bouncing on the belt. Its narrow, focused beam maintains a clean detection signal even when items pass rapidly or sit close together. With a quick response time, it synchronizes perfectly with diverters, sorters, and scanning devices. The sensor’s robust housing withstands dust and vibration, ensuring packages are consistently counted and routed without causing missed scans or stoppages.

2. Position Verification in Automated Assembly Lines

In precision manufacturing, each component must be confirmed before the next assembly step starts. The VL18-4N3740 is well-suited for checking the presence of small parts entering assembly jigs, robotic hands, or welding fixtures. Its adjustable sensitivity allows fine control, making it effective even with components that have subtle differences in reflectivity. The long detection range gives engineers flexibility when designing cramped machinery layouts. It also performs reliably around motors and actuators, where electrical noise often disrupts weaker sensors. This stability helps maintain production flow, minimizes false alarms, and supports consistent assembly accuracy.

3. Pallet and Container Detection in Warehouse Automation

Warehouse automation systems handle pallets and totes made from a mix of materials that often confuse conventional sensors. The VL18-4N3740 provides dependable detection even with surfaces that reflect light unpredictably, such as shrink-wrap or metal brackets. Its visible red beam simplifies alignment during installation on conveyors, shuttle cars, or palletizing equipment. The extended sensing capability allows detection across varying distances, including pallets positioned slightly off-center. Its rugged construction resists impact, dust, and temperature swings common in warehouse environments. This ensures stable pallet flow, accurate tracking, and fewer interruptions in automated handling processes.

4. Machine Guarding and Access Monitoring

Machinery with moving parts often requires entry-point monitoring to prevent unintended access during operation. The VL18-4N3740 serves as an effective sensor for detecting hands, tools, or materials reaching into openings. Its retro-reflective design allows installation on one side of the machine, particularly useful where space or wiring access is limited. The sensor reacts quickly to changes in its beam path, helping ensure instant detection even when lighting conditions vary throughout the day. Its durable, sealed housing withstands exposure to oil mist, coolant droplets, and vibrations typically found around CNC and metalworking equipment, supporting a safer work environment.

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