Photo-eye Sensors for Induction Conveyors | Specifications & Selection

Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Photo-eye Sensors

Definition

Photo-eye sensors are critical components of induction conveyor systems that use light emission and reception to detect objects on the conveyor line. They provide precise object detection for automated control of conveyor operations, including start/stop functions, object counting, positioning verification, and jam detection. These sensors enable the conveyor system to respond to the presence or absence of materials without physical contact. The sensors typically consist of a transmitter that emits a light beam (infrared, red, or laser) and a receiver that detects the beam. When an object interrupts the beam, the sensor sends a signal to the control system, triggering appropriate actions. Some models use reflective principles, where the transmitter and receiver are housed together, detecting light reflected from objects or background surfaces. Photo-eye sensors are available with various specifications, including detection ranges from 0.1 to 15 meters, response times from 0.5 to 10 milliseconds, supply voltages from 10 to 30 V DC, and output currents from 100 to 200 mA. They operate in temperatures from -25 to 55 °C and have an enclosure rating of IP67, indicating dust-tight and waterproof protection. The light source is typically a visible red laser or LED at 650 nm. Connection is via a 4-pin M12 connector or cable. Housing materials include polycarbonate and glass fiber reinforced PBT, with stainless steel mounting brackets and optical glass lenses. Weights range from 50 to 200 grams. These sensors are designed for use in industrial environments and are suitable for various conveyor applications. It is essential to verify model-specific values and standards with the legal manufacturer or supplier before selection and installation.

Working Principle

Photo-eye sensors operate by emitting a light beam from a transmitter and detecting it with a receiver. When an object interrupts the beam, the change in light reception triggers a signal to the conveyor control system. Some models use reflective principles, where the transmitter and receiver are in the same housing, detecting light reflected from objects or background surfaces. The sensor's output (NPN/PNP) interfaces with the control system to initiate actions such as stopping the conveyor or counting objects.

Common Materials

Polycarbonate housing, Stainless steel mounting brackets, Optical glass lenses, Electronic circuit boards

Technical Parameters

Parameter	Typical range	Notes & selection driver
Detection Range	0.1–15 m	Depends on model and reflector
Response Time	0.5–10 ms	Faster for high-speed conveyors
Supply Voltage	10–30 V DC	Reverse polarity protected
Output Current	100–200 mA	Max load for NPN/PNP output
Operating Temperature	-25–55 °C	Extended range available
Enclosure Rating	IP67	Dust-tight and waterproofIEC 60529
Light Source	650 nm	Visible red laser or LED
Connection Type	M12	4-pin connector or cable
Housing Material	PBT	Glass fiber reinforced
Weight	50–200 g	Depends on housing and cable

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Components / BOM

Transmitter Unit
Emits the light beam for object detection

Material: Polycarbonate housing with optical glass lens
Receiver Unit
Detects the light beam and converts it to electrical signals

Material: Polycarbonate housing with photodiode/transistor
Mounting Bracket Part
Secures the sensor to the conveyor frame at precise positions

Material: Stainless steel or aluminum
Signal Processing Circuit
Processes detection signals and controls output to conveyor system

Material: Printed circuit board with electronic components

Application & selection

Application Fit & Sizing Matrix

Operational Limits

pressure:	Atmospheric (non-pressurized applications)
other spec:	Sensing range: 0.1m to 20m (depending on model), Response time: 0.5ms to 10ms, Light source: Infrared (850-950nm) or visible red (650nm), Protection rating: IP67/IP69K for washdown environments
temperature:	-20°C to +70°C (operating), -40°C to +85°C (storage)

Media Compatibility

✓ Plastic packaging materials ✓ Metal machine parts ✓ Transparent glass containers

Unsuitable: High-vibration environments with misalignment risk

Sizing Data Required

Required sensing distance (mm)
Object size and detection resolution (mm)
Conveyor speed and required response time (m/s, ms)

Risk, maintenance & compliance

Reliability & Engineering Risk Analysis

Failure Mode & Root Cause

Lens Contamination

Cause: Accumulation of dust, dirt, or moisture on the lens surface, obstructing the light beam and causing false readings or signal loss.

LED Degradation

Cause: Gradual reduction in light output due to aging of the emitter or receiver LEDs, often accelerated by excessive heat, voltage spikes, or prolonged operation beyond rated cycles.

Maintenance Indicators

Intermittent or erratic object detection despite clear line of sight
Visible accumulation of debris, condensation, or physical damage on the sensor lens or housing

Engineering Tips

Implement regular cleaning schedules using appropriate, non-abrasive methods and ensure proper sealing or purging in dusty or humid environments to prevent lens contamination.
Install surge protection devices and ensure stable, within-specification power supply to protect internal electronics from voltage fluctuations and thermal stress.

Indicative industry ranges for design and RFQ preparation. Confirm the exact figures and applicable standard with the manufacturer before specifying.

Compliance & Manufacturing Standards

Applicable Standards

ISO 13849-1: Safety of machinery - Safety-related parts of control systems ANSI/UL 508: Standard for Industrial Control Equipment IEC 61496-1: Safety of machinery - Electro-sensitive protective equipment - Part 1: General requirements and tests

Quoted from the published standard.

Manufacturing Precision

Alignment accuracy: +/- 0.5 degrees
Response time: +/- 10 milliseconds

Quality Inspection

Environmental sealing test (IP rating verification)
Optical performance test (light intensity and beam alignment verification)

Procurement Evaluation Criteria

A practical evidence checklist for RFQ preparation and supplier evaluation.

Technical documentation

Request current drawings, revision history, and a signed specification sheet.

Manufacturing capability

Verify equipment lists, process limits, capacity, and representative production evidence.

Inspection readiness

Confirm test methods, calibrated equipment, sampling plans, and traceable reports.

Supplier transparency

Check the legal entity, factory address, ownership, certifications, and direct contacts.

Compare the published product scope and source details, then include your specifications and quantity in an enquiry.

Manufacturers of Photo-eye Sensors

9 companies list this product among what they make. Company figures are quoted from each company's own website; every card states where the relationship came from.

Cheemi Technology Co. Ltd.

Nanjing, Jiangsu, CN

Also makes: Photoelectric Sensor, Pressure Gauge/Sensor, Current Transformer and 2 more