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Optical Sensors

Optical sensors — photoelectric sensors for industrial automation

An optical sensor (photoelectric sensor) uses a light beam for non-contact object detection, product counting, level monitoring, and distance measurement. The catalogue features three main types: diffuse (reflection from object), retroreflective (reflection from reflector), and through-beam (separate emitter + receiver). Optical sensors work with any material — metal, plastic, wood, glass — and are used on conveyors, packaging lines, warehouses, and in robotics.

Related sensor categories: inductive sensors for metallic objects, proximity sensors, level sensors, pressure sensors.

How to choose an optical sensor

When selecting an optical sensor, consider: detection type (diffuse, retroreflective, or through-beam), operating distance, emitter type (LED or laser), environmental conditions (dust, humidity), protection rating (IP67+), and output signal type (NPN/PNP, analog). For small objects and precise measurements, choose laser models.

ModelBrandDistanceTypeApplication
WL14-2P430S02Sick40–1500 mmRetroreflectiveConveyors, counting
FU6FKeyence110–1100 mmFiber opticPrecise detection
S80-10MWenglor70–500 mmDiffusePackaging lines
S40PH5B03PHDatasensor5–300 mmDiffuseSmall object detection
OHDK14P5101S35ABaumer20–350 mmDiffuse, laserPrecision measurement

Optical sensor manufacturers

The catalogue features optical sensors from leading global industrial automation manufacturers:

  • Sick — German leader in photoelectric sensors, wide range from compact to industrial solutions
  • Keyence — Japanese high-precision fiber optic sensors for complex detection tasks
  • Wenglor — German sensors with excellent price/quality ratio, compact housings
  • Datasensor — Italian photoelectric sensors for packaging and food industry
  • Baumer — Swiss precision, laser distance sensors
  • Pepperl+Fuchs — industrial sensors for hazardous areas and harsh conditions

Optical sensors by specifications

Select a sensor by key parameters: by operating distance (from 5 mm to 60 m for through-beam), by detection type (diffuse, retroreflective, through-beam, fiber optic), by protection rating (IP65, IP67, IP69K for food industry), by emitter type (infrared LED, red LED, laser). Browse the full sensor catalogue or use the filters on the page.

Warranty and support

All optical sensors come with a manufacturer warranty of 12 to 24 months. We provide technical consultation on selection, assistance with connection and configuration. Delivery across Ukraine: Kyiv, Kharkiv, Odesa, Dnipro, Lviv, and other cities. Payment: bank transfer with VAT, card, cash on delivery.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does an optical sensor work?

An optical sensor consists of an emitter (LED or laser) and a receiver. When an object crosses the optical beam, the received signal level changes, triggering the sensor. Three main types: diffuse (reflection from object, up to 2 m), retroreflective (reflection from reflector, up to 5 m), through-beam (separate emitter + receiver, up to 60 m).

Which optical sensor type to choose for a conveyor?

For product counting on a conveyor, a retroreflective sensor (e.g., Sick WL14) is optimal — operating distance up to 5 m, stable detection regardless of object colour. For small parts or transparent objects, choose a through-beam type with emitter and receiver on opposite sides of the conveyor.

Why is a laser optical sensor better than an LED one?

A laser sensor has a much smaller spot size (down to 0.5 mm), enabling precise detection of small objects and measurements with 0.1 mm accuracy. LED sensors are cheaper and suitable for tasks without high precision requirements. For pharmaceuticals, electronics, and micro-mechanics, we recommend laser models from Sick or Baumer.

How to protect an optical sensor from contamination?

To protect against contamination, use: sensors with automatic cleaning (air purge), models with reinforced protective glass, regular lens cleaning. In dusty conditions, choose retroreflective or through-beam types — they are less sensitive to contamination than diffuse types. Protection rating — minimum IP67.

What is the maximum operating distance of an optical sensor?

It depends on the type: diffuse — up to 2 m, retroreflective — up to 5-15 m, through-beam — up to 60 m and beyond. Laser models provide greater range than LED. The catalogue includes Sick models with up to 1500 mm range (retroreflective) and Keyence fiber optic sensors up to 1100 mm.