GL2S-N0311S18 SICK – Compact 3 m Retro-reflective Photoelectric Sensor, NPN, IP67
Overview
The GL2S-N0311S18 is a miniature retro-reflective photoelectric sensor from SICK’s G2 series. It utilizes PinPoint red LED technology combined with a polarization filter to deliver stable and precise object detection. With a maximum sensing range of 3 m, NPN output, response time of less than 0.6 ms, and IP67 protection, it is ideal for space-constrained applications.
Its ultra-compact dimensions of 7.7 × 21.8 × 13.5 mm and integrated 250 mm JST 3-pin cable make the GL2S-N0311S18 perfectly suited for small robots, miniature conveyors, packaging machines, and compact automation systems.
Product Overview of the Photoelectric Retro-reflective Sensor GL2S-N0311S18
The GL2S-N0311S18 belongs to SICK’s G2 miniature retro-reflective sensor family. It is specifically designed for applications requiring a small form factor while maintaining high-speed, reliable detection. The sensor employs a PinPoint red LED and polarization filter to minimize background reflections and ensure consistent performance.
Thanks to its compact size and fast response time (< 0.6 ms), this model is an excellent choice for compact robotic systems, packaging machinery, sorting applications, and precision automation equipment.
Key Features
- Maximum sensing range: 0.02 m … 3 m (with PL40A reflector); typical: 0.03 m … 2.5 m
- Output: NPN, max. output current ≤ 50 mA
- Supply voltage: 10–30 V DC, current consumption 20 mA (no load)
- Protection rating: IP67, suitable for dusty and humid environments
- Connection: Integrated JST 3-pin cable, 250 mm length
Technical Specifications – GL2S-N0311S18
| Parameter |
Value |
| Model |
GL2S-N0311S18 |
| Part No. |
1139225 |
| Functional principle |
Retro-reflective sensor |
| Functional principle detail |
Dual lens system with minimum distance to reflector |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) |
7.7 x 21.8 x 13.5 mm |
| Sensing range max. |
0.02–3 m (PL40A) |
| Sensing range |
0.03–2.5 m (PL40A) |
| Light source |
Visible red light, 640 nm (PinPoint LED) |
| Light spot size |
Ø 11 mm at 250 mm |
| Adjustment |
None (fixed) |
| Supply voltage UB |
10–30 V DC |
| Current consumption |
20 mA (no load) |
| Switching output |
NPN |
| Switching mode |
Light switching |
| Output current |
≤ 50 mA |
| Response time |
< 0.6 ms (resistive load) |
| Switching frequency |
800 Hz (light/dark ratio 1:1) |
| Connection type |
Cable with JST 3-pin connector, 250 mm |
| Cable material |
PUR |
| Cable diameter |
Ø 3 mm |
| Polarization filter |
Yes |
| Housing material |
ABS |
| Optics material |
PMMA |
| Weight |
12 g |
| Enclosure rating |
IP67 |
| Ambient operating temperature |
–30 °C … +50 °C |
| Ambient storage temperature |
–40 °C … +75 °C |
| Certifications |
EU/UK/ACMA/Morocco CoC, China RoHS, cULus, DIN EN 62471 |
Source: Official SICK datasheet for GL2S-N0311S18. [Download datasheet]
Industrial Applications – GL2S-N0311S18
- Packaging & Food Processing Lines: Excellent detection of small products on conveyors thanks to the focused PinPoint light spot (Ø 11 mm at 250 mm) and high switching frequency of 800 Hz.
- Compact Robots & Machinery: The miniature size (7.7 × 21.8 × 13.5 mm) and lightweight design (12 g) allow direct integration into robot arms, grippers, and tight-space automation modules.
- Logistics & Material Sorting: 3 m sensing range supports product monitoring on longer conveyors, sorting systems, and small-scale warehousing.
- Printing & Electronics: Reliable detection of thin sheets, films, or small components with high accuracy due to the polarization filter reducing reflections from shiny surfaces.
- Agricultural & Food Machinery: IP67 rating ensures reliable operation in dusty or wash-down environments.
Comparison: GL2S-N0311S18 vs. GL2S-N0311S26
Both models in the G2 series share identical dimensions and sensing ranges but differ in connection type and switching mode:
| Parameter |
GL2S-N0311S18 |
GL2S-N0311S26 |
| Part No. |
1139225 |
1140105 |
| Switching mode |
Light switching |
Light/dark switching |
| Connection |
JST 3-pin cable, 250 mm |
JST 4-pin cable, 250 mm |
| Number of wires |
3 wires (BN/BU/BK) |
4 wires (BN/WH/BU/BK) |
| Output |
NPN |
NPN |
| Sensing range max. |
0.02 – 3 m (PL40A) |
0.02 – 3 m (PL40A) |
| Enclosure rating |
IP67 |
IP67 |
| Supply voltage |
10–30 V DC |
10–30 V DC |
| Weight |
12 g |
14 g |
| Recommended for |
Compact machines, mini robots, small conveyors |
Applications requiring flexible light/dark switching |
Conclusion
- Choose the GL2S-N0311S18 when the system only requires Light switching mode and a simple 3-pin JST connection.
- Choose the GL2S-N0311S26 when Light/Dark switching flexibility and a 4-pin connection are needed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. Can the GL2S-N0311S18 detect small objects?
Yes. The sensor uses a PinPoint red LED with a very small light spot (Ø 11 mm at 250 mm), making it ideal for detecting small parts and fine details.
Q2. Is the GL2S-N0311S18 suitable for dusty or humid environments?
Yes. With an IP67 protection rating, it offers excellent resistance to dust and water in industrial conditions.
Q3. What type of output does the GL2S-N0311S18 have?
It features an NPN switching output with a maximum load current of 50 mA.
Q4. What is the maximum sensing range of the GL2S-N0311S18?
Up to 3 m when used with the recommended PL40A reflector.
Q5. What applications is the GL2S-N0311S18 suitable for?
It is ideal for packaging machines, small robots, miniature conveyors, electronics assembly, and space-constrained automation systems.
Contact for Purchasing for GL2S-N0311S18
AUMI – Official SICK Distributor in Vietnam. Full manufacturer warranty, genuine CO/CQ, and 24/7 technical support.
📞 Hotline: 0917 991 589 (Hanoi) | 0932 226 100 (Ho Chi Minh City)
📧 Email: [email protected] 🌐 Website: https://aumi.com.vn/
Addresses:
- Hanoi: B44, Villa Area, Viet Hung Urban Area, Viet Hung Ward
- Ho Chi Minh City: 2nd Floor, HS Building, 260/11 Nguyen Thai Binh, Bay Hien Ward
- Da Nang: 9th Floor, PV Bank Building, No. 2 30-4 Street, Hoa Cuong Ward
