Sensors & Transducers


Photoelectric sensors for packaging and bottling

February 2012 Sensors & Transducers

SICK offers the solution portfolio for the world of transparency.

Transparent plastic packaging, bottles made of glass or PET, ampoules and pipettes, flat, tubular and hollow glass, films for securing loads on pallets – in a transparent world, machine builders must deal with many manufacturing processes. Moreover, this world is diverse in itself, since product features, processes, and ambient conditions, differ from industry to industry and often even from one batch to another. Therefore, the range of sensors must be designed to cope with varying applications and to make future-proof solutions possible.

A multitude of requirements

Glass photoelectric sensors must meet a large number of requirements. Top priority is precise and reliable detection of transparent objects. Mechanical, thermal, and chemical stability are just as much in demand as a high level of robustness against optical disturbance variables from the environment. Differing installation space, electric connection systems and the desired sensor intelligence, eg, regarding integration into a machine’s communication structures, must be taken into account. Finally, intuitive operation of the sensor and quick, uncomplicated commissioning are called for as well.

The solution portfolio for the world of transparency

Wherever such features matter, the portfolio from SICK offers efficient photoelectric retro-reflective sensors for the world of transparency. The WLG4S-3 in the Inox miniature housing is the space saver among glass photoelectric sensors. It delivers convincing performance due to reliable detection of highly transparent objects, automatic switching threshold adjustment, hygienic design, and it is IO-Link-capable.

The WL11G-2 small photoelectric sensor in the robust plastic housing is ultra reliable for use in detecting transparent objects such as PET bottles or transparent film. Moreover, it provides convincing resistance against high-pressure cleaning. Another small photoelectric sensor – the WL12G-3 with and without adjustment of the switching threshold – guarantees top precision and reliability when detecting highly transparent objects in demanding industrial settings. Optionally, the robust metal housing can be coated with Teflon. Simple teaching at the push of a button ensures easy and time-saving commissioning of the IO-Link-capable sensor.

The latest technology highlight among the ‘transparent ones’ is the WL9G-3 small photoelectric sensor: It is the first glass photoelectric sensor featuring digital signal processing. Its strength is the high-precision option of setting the adjustable switching point, which enhances device availability in harsh environments. The housing made of particularly tough VistalI plastic as well as a special sensor construction ensure an extremely high level of stability and seal tightness. For the WL9G-3, IO-Link is available as an option.

The portfolio of glass photoelectric sensors from SICK has a suitable sensor solution ready for nearly any application, providing in the world of transparency maximum functionality and investment security in every operating scenario.

For more information contact Mark Madeley, SICK Automation Southern Africa, +27 (0)11 472 3733, [email protected], www.sickautomation.co.za



Credit(s)



Share this article:
Share via emailShare via LinkedInPrint this page

Further reading:

Technology and education are critical to advancing safety in the mining sector
Sensors & Transducers
As mining operations across Africa continue to evolve in scale, complexity and automation, the role of advanced safety technologies has become increasingly important in protecting people, equipment and productivity.

Read more...
Image processing cameras
Vepac Electronics Sensors & Transducers
The intelligent camera series from Vepac is an integrated camera module consisting of a camera and high speed processor. It offers a high-performance image sensing function at the edge device by embedding standard image processing software or the customer’s developed software.

Read more...
OMRON launches non-contact safety door switch
Omron Electronics Sensors & Transducers
OMRON has unveiled its latest innovation in non-contact safety door switches, designed to enhance workplace safety and streamline machinery operations.

Read more...
Conductivity sensing as a cornerstone of South Africa’s water smart industry
ifm - South Africa Editor's Choice Sensors & Transducers
South Africa’s engineers operate at the intersection of resource constraint and industrial ambition. Few parameters illustrate this balancing act as clearly as water quality. Whether in municipal treatment works, food and beverage plants or mining operations, the ability to measure water quality accurately and continuously has become non-negotiable.

Read more...
Futureproofing pharma, one pixel at a time
Omron Electronics Sensors & Transducers
In pharmaceutical manufacturing, there’s no room for error. Omron’s FH-AI and FHV7-AI vision systems introduce AI-powered inspection that adapts to real-world variability, something conventional rule-based vision systems cannot easily achieve.

Read more...
Distance sensor for confined spaces
ifm - South Africa Sensors & Transducers
The O6D100 from ifm has been designed as a powerful all-rounder for typical applications in object detection, distance measurement and positioning.

Read more...
SICK earns Great Place To Work certification
SICK Automation Southern Africa News
Sensor specialist SICK South Africa has been awarded Great Place to Work certification recognising the positive working environment and strong workplace culture it has developed.

Read more...
Long-range laser distance measuring sensor
Vepac Electronics Sensors & Transducers
The MS-100A is a long-range laser distance measuring sensor with a range of 150 to 1000 mm. This sensor excels in applications requiring extended measurement capabilities, such as quality control and logistics.

Read more...
Listening for damage to wind turbines
Sensors & Transducers
The Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated Circuits, working in concert with the Fraunhofer Institute for Wind Energy Systems, has developed a solution that can be used to identify cracks and breakage inside wind turbine blades remotely at an early stage.

Read more...
Verification using Heartbeat Technology is a breeze
Endress+Hauser South Africa Sensors & Transducers
Heartbeat Technology reflects Endress+Hauser’s long-term commitment to enhancing measurement reliability and efficiency across a growing product portfolio.

Read more...









While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.




© Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd | All Rights Reserved