Overview & Technology:
The Leuze PRK18B.TT3/LP-M12 Polarized Retro-Reflective Photoelectric Sensor belongs to the premium Series 18B portfolio engineered by Leuze electronic GmbH + Co. KG (Germany). Renowned globally for high-precision clear material detection, this sensor is specially optimized for recognizing transparent media such as clear glass bottles, PET containers, transparent blister packs, and thin plastic foils. Incorporating advanced optical design with intelligent auto-tracking algorithms (.TT3), the sensor maintains continuous detection accuracy even under progressive lens and reflector contamination.

Key Features & Highlights:
• Specialized Transparent Object Detection (.TT3): Precisely detects minimal light attenuation when the optical beam passes through clear glass or PET containers, completely eliminating beam pass-through failures common in conventional optical sensors.
• Automatic Contamination Compensation (Auto-Tracking): Real-time switching threshold adjustment automatically compensates for gradual dust and dirt buildup on optical surfaces, significantly extending maintenance cycles.
• Versatile Push-Pull with IO-Link Integration (/LP): Fully compatible with both PNP and NPN architectures (Light-on / Dark-on selectable) while supporting IO-Link digital communication for remote parameter configuration and predictive diagnostics via PLC.
• Standard Cylindrical M18 Form Factor: Industry-standard M18 threaded housing enables rapid mechanical installation and straightforward optical beam alignment on machine frames and conveyors.
• Ultra-Fast Response (1000 Hz Switching Frequency, ≤ 0.5 ms Response Time): Flawlessly captures fast-moving containers on automated filling, capping, and packaging machinery.

Durability & Heavy-Duty Construction:
Constructed with high-grade engineering plastic or plated metallic casing with scratch-resistant PMMA optical windows, the sensor is rated IP67 and IP69K for resistance against high-pressure washdowns and food-grade cleaning detergents. It operates reliably across ambient temperatures from -40°C to +60°C.

Practical Value for QA/QC:
Deploying the Leuze PRK18B.TT3/LP-M12 sensor prevents uncounted transparent items on conveyors, avoids false-trigger line stoppages, optimizes filling machine throughput, and delivers comprehensive automation stability across modern industrial plants.

• Manufacturer: Leuze electronic GmbH + Co. KG
• Product Category: Polarized Retro-Reflective Photoelectric Sensor for Clear/Transparent Objects
• Model Code: PRK18B.TT3/LP-M12 (PRK 18B.TT3/LP-M12)
• Series: Series 18B
• Country of Origin: Germany
• Housing Design: Cylindrical M18 threaded housing
• Operating Principle: Retro-reflective with specialized polarization filter for transparent objects
• Target Application: Detection of clear glass, PET bottles, ampoules, transparent foils
• Special Feature: Automatic dust and contamination compensation (Auto-Tracking function)
• Light Source: Visible Red LED (~620 nm, pulsed)
• Operating Range (Sensing Distance): 0 ... 3 m (when paired with Leuze TK/TKS reflectors)
• Supply Voltage: 10 ... 30 V DC (including residual ripple)
• Open-Circuit Current: ≤ 20 mA
• Output Type: Transistor Push-Pull (PNP/NPN, Light-on / Dark-on configurable) with integrated IO-Link
• Maximum Output Current: 100 mA
• Switching Frequency: 1000 Hz
• Response Time: ≤ 0.5 ms
• Connection Type: Standard M12 circular connector, 4-pin (A-coded)
• Status Indicators: Yellow LED (Output state), Green LED (Ready / Alignment reserve)
• Ingress Protection: IP67 / IP69K (High-pressure washdown resistant and dust-tight)
• Housing Material: High-grade engineering plastic / Stainless steel, optical PMMA window
• Operating Temperature Range: -40°C to +60°C
• Storage Temperature Range: -40°C to +70°C