What it is and what it does
The Telemecanique XU2M18MA230WR is the receiver half of a through-beam photoelectric pair in the XU2 tubular series. It works with the XU2M18MA230W transmitter to create a 15 m break-beam across conveyor lines, doorways, or automated guided vehicle paths. Its dark operating mode means the output closes when the light path is interrupted — standard for presence detection or edge sensing. The nickel-plated brass barrel takes the abuse of washdown or outdoor installs; the IP67 / NEMA 4X/12 rating says it survives hose-down and occasional submersion. It's powered from 24 to 240 VAC/VDC — universal for industrial control voltages — and switches up to 200 mA resistive load directly into a PLC input or relay. Response time is 20 ms on/off, switching frequency 25 Hz, so it's fast enough for counting bottles but not for high-speed part rejection.
What the ratings mean for the buyer
Rated sensing distance is 15 m. Operates on 24 to 240 VAC/VDC, 2-wire, maximum load current 200 mA. The 90° side sensing position means the optical axis is perpendicular to the barrel axis; the emitter and receiver must be aimed at each other's side windows, not end-on. That's typical for tubular through-beams. The 2 m PVC cable is permanently attached — plan your junction box location accordingly.
Lifecycle and sourcing
If you're filling a BOM for a line that's down, the UPC 78590198154 helps cross-reference in distributor systems. Approvals UL, CSA, CE cover most North American and European panels. No special documentation or restricted substance declarations needed.