SICK GRTB18-P2412 Photoelectric Sensor – M18, Red Light

The Applications

1. High-Speed Packaging Line – Detecting Glossy and Dark Surfaces

In modern packaging facilities, products often use reflective or dark materials that confuse basic sensors. The GRTB18-P2412 solves this by using a precise red PinPoint LED that differentiates objects from shiny backgrounds. Its fast 500 µs response time ensures even the quickest conveyor systems detect every passing tray or box. This reduces missed counts and false detections, keeping production accurate and efficient with minimal downtime.

2. Robotic Pick-and-Place Operations – Handling Mixed Surface Types

Automated robotic arms deal with parts that vary in color, texture, and shape. The GRTB18-P2412 excels in this scenario thanks to its background suppression feature, ensuring detection of both glossy and matte objects. Its compact M18 design allows easy mounting near grippers, while the robust metal housing protects against vibration and oil mist. This enhances the robot’s precision when picking complex or irregularly shaped components.

3. Conveyor Sorting System – Detecting Thin or Reflective Components

In sorting lines where thin metal or plastic sheets move rapidly, the GRTB18-P2412 provides reliable differentiation between parts and conveyor surfaces. The narrow 7 mm light spot enables precise edge detection, even when components are close together. Installers can fine-tune sensing distance with the 270° potentiometer, avoiding background reflections. The result is smoother sorting performance, fewer misreads, and improved overall process consistency.

4. Food and Beverage Filling Lines – Stable Detection on Shiny Machinery

In hygienic environments where stainless-steel equipment reflects light, standard sensors often misread. The GRTB18-P2412 overcomes this with high-performance optical filtering that ignores background reflections. Its IP67 protection allows it to withstand moisture, dust, and occasional washdowns, ensuring long-term reliability. This makes it ideal for detecting bottles, pouches, or cartons in filling stations, maintaining accuracy even under bright lighting and wet conditions.

 

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