The XS218BLPAL2 is a Telemecanique XS2 series inductive proximity sensor — cylindrical M18 threaded, unshielded, with an 8 mm sensing distance. It runs on 12-24 V DC, outputs PNP normally-open, and switches up to 200 mA. The brass body is nickel-plated, rated IP67 and NEMA 4X, so it handles washdown and gritty environments without flinching. Comes prewired with a 2 m cable, bare ends — no connector to lose on site.
The 8 mm sensing distance is unshielded — that means the active face detects ferrous targets at that gap without needing a metal-free zone around the barrel. If you're retrofitting into a tight bracket or a drilled block, unshielded buys you more mounting flexibility than a shielded version. M18 threads are standard; it'll spin into any M18 nut or through-hole with a lock washer. The PNP NO output is common for PLC inputs — sourcing current, not sinking. At 200 mA it'll drive a small relay or indicator directly, but don't plan on a contactor coil without an interposing relay.