SICK WFM120-120N311 (6037835) Fork Sensor: 120mm width, visible red light, NPN output, and 4 kHz switching frequency. Reliable IP67 optical sensing for automation.

SKU SICK-6037835 Category SICK WFM

Product Description

Product Overview

Model Name: WFM120-120N311
Functional Principle: Optical detection principle (Fork-shaped light barrier).
Fork Width: 120 mm.
Fork Depth: 124 mm.
Light Source: Visible red light LED for easy alignment.
Output Type: NPN switching output (Light switching).
Connection: Male connector M8, 3-pin.
Housing Material: Durable aluminum with IP67 enclosure rating.

Product Description

The SICK WFM120-120N311 (Part No: 6037835) is a high-performance optical fork sensor designed for precision and ease of use in diverse industrial automation environments. As part of the WFM family, this sensor utilizes a visible red light source, which significantly simplifies alignment compared to infrared alternatives. Its “plug-and-play” design eliminates the need for complex teach-in procedures, allowing for immediate integration and reduced downtime on the factory floor.

With a generous fork width of 120 mm and a depth of 124 mm, the WFM120-120N311 is ideal for detecting a wide range of objects, including those in high-speed production lines, thanks to its impressive 4 kHz switching frequency and rapid 125 µs response time. Encased in a rugged aluminum housing with an IP67 enclosure rating, the sensor is built to withstand harsh industrial conditions, including moisture and dust. The NPN switching output and standard M8 3-pin connector ensure seamless compatibility with most control systems. Whether used for part counting, presence detection, or monitoring material flow, this fork sensor provides the reliability and precision required for modern manufacturing and packaging applications.

Key Performance Features

High Switching Frequency: Operates at 4,000 Hz for accurate detection in high-speed processes.
Rapid Response: Features a ≤ 125 µs response time for real-time monitoring.
Precision Detection: Minimum detectable object (MDO) size of 0.8 mm.
Robust Construction: IP67-rated aluminum housing resistant to harsh environments.
Simplified Alignment: Highly visible red light beam allows for quick and easy setup without specialized tools.
Operational Reliability: Reverse polarity, short-circuit, and interference pulse suppression protections built-in.

Ideal Applications

Packaging Industry: Detection of opaque labels, packaging materials, and container presence.
Assembly Lines: Precise part counting and positioning of components in automated cells.
Material Handling: Monitoring of material flow and presence on conveyor systems.
Food and Beverage: Object detection in washdown-prone environments (due to IP67 rating).
Print and Paper: Edge detection and feed monitoring for opaque webs or sheets.

Features

Functional principle	Optical detection principle
Dimensions (W x H x D)	10 mm x 140 mm x 141.8 mm
Housing design (light emission)	Fork shaped
Fork width	120 mm
Fork depth	124 mm
Minimum detectable object (MDO)	0.8 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	NPN
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.