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Inductive sensors M18

( number of products: 289 )

Inductive sensors M18 in a threaded housing: sensing range 5–23 mm, PNP or NPN output, NO, NC or NO & NC function, cable or M12 connector. Use the filters to narrow the list; selection tips are below the list.

Inductive sensor M18 – what this category offers

An inductive sensor M18, also called a proximity sensor, detects metal objects without contact. All models in this category share a few features:

  • supply voltage 10–30 V DC, output load up to 200 mA, short-circuit protection,
  • IP67 protection rating and ambient temperature from -25 to +70°C,
  • LED indicator,
  • PBT sensing face, nickel-plated brass housing.

Sensing range of the inductive sensor M18

The available rated sensing range Sn depends on the mounting type:

  • flush mounting (sensing face level with the metal surface): 5, 8, 12 and 15 mm,
  • non-flush mounting (the sensing face needs free space around it): 8, 16, 20 and 23 mm.

Read more about choosing the range in our guide on extended-range inductive sensors. For a longer range, see inductive sensors M30. For tighter spaces, see inductive sensors M12.

Sensing range and the detected metal

The rated range applies to steel. For other metals, multiply it by the reduction factor:

  • Fe37 steel – 1,
  • cast iron – 0.95–1,
  • stainless steel – 0.8–1,
  • nickel – 0.6–0.75,
  • brass – 0.4–0.7,
  • aluminium – 0.35–0.6,
  • copper – 0.25–0.5.

Example: an M18 sensor with a 20 mm range detects aluminium from 7 to 12 mm.

Switching frequency

The longer the range, the lower the switching frequency. This matters with fast-moving parts:

  • range 5 mm – 1 kHz (response time 0.2 ms),
  • range 8 mm – 500 Hz (0.5 ms),
  • range 12 and 15 mm – 300 Hz (0.5 ms),
  • range 16 mm – 150 Hz (1 ms),
  • range 20 and 23 mm – 100 Hz (1 ms).

PNP or NPN, NO or NC

M18 sensors are available with a PNP or NPN output – the choice depends on the controller inputs. The differences are explained in the guide PNP vs NPN – how inductive sensors differ. The switching function is NO, NC or NO & NC, i.e. both contacts in one sensor. NO and NC versions are 3-wire, NO & NC versions are 4-wire. More about the functions in the guide inductive sensors NO, NC and NO & NC.

Housing length and connection

  • with cable – housing 35, 40 or 55 mm, PVC cable 5 mm in diameter, 2 or 3 m long,
  • with M12 connector – housing 48, 53 or 79 mm, always 4 pins.

Cable and connector for the M18 sensor

Sensors with an M12 connector work with cables with M8 and M12 connectors and field-wireable M8 and M12 connectors.

When to choose another M18 sensor family

Frequently asked questions

Does the inductive sensor M18 detect aluminium?

Yes, but from a shorter distance than steel. The reduction factor for aluminium is 0.35–0.6.

What is the difference between flush and non-flush mounting?

A flush sensor can sit level with the metal surface. A non-flush sensor needs free space around the sensing face but offers a longer range in the same size – up to 23 mm for M18.

What supply voltage does the inductive sensor M18 need?

Sensors in this category operate at 10–30 V DC.

What warranty do Nexotec sensors have?

24 months.