The Leuze IPRK 18 is a sophisticated retro-reflective photoelectric sensor equipped with a polarization filter, specifically designed for reliable detection of transparent materials like PET bottles, foil, and glass. With intelligent automatic contamination compensation, this sensor extends cleaning intervals and enhances operational efficiency in industrial automation environments.
Detection of Transparent Objects: Ideal for sensing clear materials such as PET, clear glass, and foil.
Contamination Compensation (Tracking Function): Automatically adjusts for contamination on the sensor or reflector to reduce cleaning frequency.
Teach-In Adjustment: Easy calibration using a step switch or control cable for object-specific detection.
High Protection Ratings: Complies with IP67 and IP69K, ensuring robustness in harsh industrial environments.
Multiple Output Types: Available in PNP, NPN, or a combination, suitable for varied electrical interfaces.
Typ. Operating Range Limit: 0 – 4 m (max. range without performance reserve)
Operating Range (with performance reserve): Varies by reflector type
Recommended Reflector: MTKS 50x50.1
Light Source: Modulated red LED (660 nm), polarized
Switching Frequency: 1 kHz
Response Time: 0.5 ms
Start-Up Delay: ≤ 300 ms
Operating Voltage: 10 – 30 V DC
Residual Ripple: ≤ 15% of UB
Open-Circuit Current: ≤ 35 mA
Output Current: Max. 2 x 100 mA
Signal Voltage High/Low: ≥ (UB - 2V) / ≤ 2V
Protection Circuitry: Polarity reversal, short-circuit protection
PNP, NPN, or combination
Function Modes: Light switching, dark switching, or antivalent depending on model
Teach and L/D (Light/Dark) Input Options
Teach: Activates teach-in process
1: PET/foil detection
2: Clear glass detection
3: Colored glass detection
Auto: Enables/disables tracking function
Ensure no object is between sensor and reflector.
Align light spot centrally on the reflector.
Turn switch to "Teach" for 2 seconds.
Return switch to desired object type (1, 2, or 3).
To toggle tracking, use the "Auto" switch position.
Green LED (Continuous): Ready
Green LED (Flashing): Teach mode active with reserve
Red LED (Continuous): No performance reserve
Red LED (Flashing): Teaching error
Yellow LED 1: Light path clear
Yellow LED 2: Tracking ON
Housing Material: Diecast zinc
Optics Cover: Glass
Weight: 150 g
Connection Type: 5-pin M12 stainless steel connector
Temperature Range (Operation): -25°C to +55°C
Temperature Range (Storage): -40°C to +70°C
Protection Class: IP67, IP69K
VDE Safety Class: III
Compliance: IEC 60947-5-2, UL 508, C22.2 No.14-13
| Reflector Type | Operating Range (m) | Typ. Operating Limit (m) |
|---|---|---|
| TK(S) 100x100 | 0 – 3.0 | 0 – 4.0 |
| MTKS 50x50.1 | 0 – 2.4 | 0 – 3.0 |
| TK(S) 30x50 | 0 – 1.6 | 0 – 2.0 |
| TK(S) 20x40 | 0 – 1.4 | 0 – 1.8 |
| Tape 6 50x50 | 0 – 2.0 | 0 – 2.2 |
| Object Type | Examples | Switch Position |
|---|---|---|
| Transparent | PET bottle, glass, foil | 1 |
| Semi-transparent | Clear glass bottle | 2 |
| Opaque | Colored glass bottle | 3 |
| Order Code | Switching Outputs | Mode | Teach-In | Tracking | UL Certified |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PRK 18/24 DL.46 | 2 PNP | L | Switch | Yes | Yes |
| PRK 18/24 DL.42 | 2 NPN | D | Switch | Yes | Yes |
| PRK 18/44 L.43 | 2 PNP | L | Switch | Yes | Yes |
| IPRK 18/4 DL.41 | 1 NPN + 1 PNP | D | Switch | Yes | Yes |
| IPRK 18/2 DL.41 | 1 NPN + 1 PNP | D | Switch | Yes | Yes |
Always operate without objects during the teach-in process.
Ensure the light spot is centered on the reflector.
Do not exceed the light spot beyond the reflector edge.
The sensor is not a safety sensor and is not suitable for personnel protection.
The Leuze IPRK 18 sensor series offers a highly reliable solution for detecting transparent and semi-transparent objects in industrial environments. With robust housing, versatile output configurations, and self-adjusting capabilities, it is a valuable tool for enhancing automation systems where precision and reliability are paramount.