SICK switches up its cylindrical inductive safety offering

With SICK IME2S, SICK has redeveloped its cylindrical inductive safety sensor to deliver a compact, wear-free device that is easy to integrate into machines without the need for a separate actuator. 

Using the inductive sensing principle to enable non-contact detection of metal objects, the IP67-rated IME2S ensures high machine availability, even in dusty and high moisture industrial environments.

The SICK IME2S replaces the widely used SICK IN3000 sensor with an improved performance range up to 15mm. The SICK IME2S uses two self-monitoring OSSD outputs to ensure consistent reliable signalling to actuators and safe control systems, complying with Category 2, PL d, and SIL2.

Available in a choice of three cylindrical housings, the IME2S offers a range of mountings for wide ranging compatibility with new machinery, or to fit into existing equipment. Easy to install, it is suitable for personnel protection duties such as where metal components must be in the correct location for safe machine tending, automated welding or painting, skid or bin positioning and wrapping.

“The new SICK IME2S fulfils the increasing requirement for a safe non-contact inductive sensor in critical and hazard locations, to complement the standard proximity sensors used in many automated processes and procedures,” said Dr Martin Kidman, SICK’s UK Product Manager for Machinery Safety. “The two pulsed outputs of the IME2S offer greater performance consistency over single output sensors, with better failure detection.

“Frequently, proximity sensing is the best solution for inaccessible or tight spaces or in hostile environments, so high reliability and resistance to dirt and moisture are further key benefits in maintaining high machine availability.”

The SICK IME2S offer a wide field sensing range between 4mm and 15mm without a blind-zone with a working temperature range of -25ºC to +70ºC. The SICK IME2S features a nickel-plated brass housing with a Vistal protected sensing head and the sensors are available in three diameters, M12, M18 and M30, allowing installation in standard industrial mounts and with male connector, cable connector or male with cable connector variants. Flush and non-flush head variants are available.

The high reliability and precise switching characteristics are ensured through SICK’s proven ASIC technology, and the twin OSSD outputs provide easy to connection to safety control systems, including Flexi Loop (the SICK proprietary cabling-saving safety device connection system). Sensor status and diagnostic messages are easily seen via on-board LED indicators.