SICK WL8G-P2231 Photoelectric Sensor for Transparent Objects

SICK WL8G-P2231 Photoelectric Sensor for Reliable Transparent Object Detection

The SICK WL8G-P2231 photoelectric sensor is a compact retro-reflective sensing solution designed to overcome one of the most common automation challenges: stable detection of transparent and glossy objects. Engineered with coaxial optical technology, it ensures consistent object recognition even when dealing with clear bottles, films, or reflective surfaces. Its slim rectangular housing allows seamless integration into tight installation spaces, while the visible red LED simplifies alignment during setup. This sensor is ideal for industrial environments where precision, reliability, and space efficiency are critical.

In real-world production lines, transparent materials often cause unreliable switching and false detections. The WL8G-P2231 addresses this by maintaining a highly focused light path and stable signal evaluation, enabling dependable operation in packaging, bottling, and conveyor systems. The fast switching response supports high-speed processes without sacrificing accuracy. Simple sensitivity adjustment helps operators fine-tune performance during commissioning or changeovers. Combined with a robust housing and wide temperature tolerance, this sensor helps reduce downtime, improve throughput, and maintain consistent quality in demanding automation applications.

Why SICK WL8G-P2231?
The SICK WL8G-P2231 is chosen when precision matters and conventional sensors fall short. It is engineered specifically for applications involving transparent or highly reflective materials, delivering consistent detection where standard photoelectric sensors struggle. Its compact form factor fits seamlessly into space-limited machines, while fast response performance supports modern high-speed automation. The WL8G-P2231 combines optical intelligence with mechanical durability, making it a dependable choice for manufacturers who demand accuracy, stability, and long-term operational confidence in challenging industrial environments.

What problem does it solve?
Transparent objects such as glass bottles, clear packaging films, or plastic containers often confuse traditional sensors, causing missed detections or false triggers that disrupt production. The WL8G-P2231 eliminates this issue by using a refined optical principle that reliably distinguishes transparent items from the background. This ensures stable switching even under varying lighting conditions or reflective surfaces. As a result, it prevents production errors, reduces line stoppages, and helps maintain consistent product flow in automated packaging, filling, and material-handling systems.

Key Features & Specifications – SICK WL8G-P2231: Part Number 6033188

Download SICK WL8G-P2231 (6033188) Datasheet

Commercial Information – SICK WL8G-P2231

The Applications

1. Reliable Bottle Presence Detection on High-Speed Filling Lines

On beverage and pharmaceutical filling lines, transparent glass or PET bottles frequently cause unstable signals for standard sensors, particularly at high conveyor speeds. The WL8G-P2231 is well suited for this environment because its coaxial optical design keeps the light path aligned even when passing through clear materials. This allows the sensor to confirm bottle presence precisely before filling, capping, or labeling begins. Its fast response time supports rapid indexing without missed detections, while the adjustable sensitivity helps engineers adapt the sensor to different bottle shapes and wall thicknesses. The compact housing also fits easily into crowded filling stations, reducing mechanical redesign and installation complexity.

2. Accurate Detection of Clear Packaging Film in Sealing Machines

In horizontal and vertical packaging machines, transparent plastic films are often difficult to detect during sealing and cutting operations. The WL8G-P2231 enables consistent film detection by maintaining stable signal evaluation even on glossy or reflective surfaces. This ensures that thin, clear films are reliably recognized, preventing sealing errors, poor welds, or misaligned cuts. Operators can fine-tune sensitivity during material changeovers, shortening setup time and reducing scrap. With a high switching frequency, the sensor keeps pace with fast-moving film, supporting precise machine timing and helping packaging lines maintain steady output and consistent package quality.

3. Object Verification in Automated Pick-and-Place Systems

Automated assembly cells frequently handle transparent trays, covers, or protective components that must be verified before robotic handling. The WL8G-P2231 provides dependable object confirmation without requiring added labels or contrast markers. Its rapid response ensures accurate timing signals for robot controllers, reducing the risk of mispicks or collisions. The sensor’s slim design allows mounting close to grippers or fixtures in space-limited robotic cells. Stable detection performance helps maintain smooth cycle times, while robust construction ensures reliable operation despite vibration, dust, or temperature variations commonly found in automated manufacturing environments.

4. Position Monitoring of Clear Containers at Conveyor Transfer Points

At conveyor transfer and merging points, transparent containers can be difficult to track as they move between belts or lanes. Missed detections may result in jams, incorrect sorting, or delayed actuation of diverters. The WL8G-P2231 improves conveyor reliability by consistently detecting clear containers regardless of background reflections or ambient lighting changes. Its stable switching behavior supports accurate position monitoring, enabling precise control of stoppers and routing mechanisms. Designed for continuous operation, the sensor withstands demanding industrial conditions and helps reduce downtime caused by unreliable object detection in material handling and logistics systems.

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