CM18-12NPP-EC1

What type of sensor is this and what is it used for?

This is a capacitive proximity sensor designed for non-contact detection of objects and materials. It is commonly used for presence detection and level monitoring (including non-metallic materials) where an adjustable sensing point is needed.

What supply voltage does it require?

It operates on 10–36 V DC. Ensure the DC supply ripple is kept within 10% of the supply voltage for best performance.

What output type does it have?

It provides PNP switching outputs in a complementary (antivalent) arrangement, offering both NO and NC outputs via separate pins.

How is it wired (pinout and wire colours)?

Connection is via an M12 4-pin connector. Pin 1 (brown) is +L, pin 3 (blue) is 0 V (M), pin 4 (black) is NO output, and pin 2 (white) is NC output.

Is the sensing distance adjustable?

Yes. Sensitivity is adjustable using an 11-turn potentiometer, allowing you to set a switching distance within the sensor’s range to suit the application and target material.

What is the sensing distance range?

The nominal sensing distance (Sn) is adjustable from 3 mm up to 12 mm depending on set-up and target material. The assured switching distance (Sa) is 9.18 mm under reference conditions.

Can it detect non-metallic materials reliably?

Yes, capacitive sensing enables detection of many non-metallic materials. Note that effective sensing distance varies by material: typical reduction factors include PVC ~0.4, glass ~0.6, ceramic ~0.5, oil ~0.25, and wood ~0.2 to 0.7 (relative to metal/water at 1.0).

Is it suitable for mounting in metal, and does it require a specific installation style?

It is designed for non-flush (non-embeddable) mounting in metal, meaning it needs free space around the sensing face and should not be fully surrounded by metal at the front area.

What connector style does it use?

It uses an M12 x 1, 4-pin male connector, which is a common sensor interface for industrial DC wiring.

What are the key electrical limits for the output?

Continuous output current is up to 200 mA. The sensor includes short-circuit protection, reverse polarity protection, and power-up pulse suppression. Voltage drop at maximum load is up to 2.5 V DC.

How fast does it switch and what is the start-up time?

Typical switching frequency is 50 Hz. The sensor’s start-up delay is up to 200 ms after power is applied.

What environmental protection rating does it have?

It is rated IP67, IP68 (1 m water depth for up to 60 minutes), and IP69K, supporting use in demanding wet or washdown environments.

What is the operating temperature range?

Operating ambient temperature is -30 °C to +85 °C. The sensing face can tolerate short-term exposure up to +120 °C.

What are the physical dimensions and mounting details?

It is an M18 threaded cylindrical sensor (Ø 18 mm) with a housing length of 85 mm and a usable threaded length of 47 mm. Fixing nuts are supplied; maximum tightening torque is 2.6 Nm. For identification in documentation, this variant is often referenced as CM18-12NPP-EC1.

What do the LEDs indicate?

A green LED indicates operating status, and a yellow LED indicates the switching/output state (function indication).