The XU8M18MB230 is a metal-barrel background rejection photoelectric sensor from Telemecanique's XU8 series, threaded 18mm for direct mounting. It senses at 12 cm in dark-on operating mode — output turns on when the received light is blocked. The 2-wire design runs on any control voltage from 24 to 240 VAC or VDC, so you can patch it into existing panel power without a separate supply. Maximum load current is 200 mA, enough for a small relay or a PLC input, and switching frequency is 25 Hz. Response time is 20 ms on and off, consistent for most packaging or conveyor detection.
Field fit and sourcing
The nickel-plated brass barrel and PMMA lens give this sensor an IP67 / NEMA 4X/12 rating — it lives through washdown cycles and corrosive atmospheres. Operating temperature range is -13 to 131 °F, so it's fine for unheated production areas. The 2 m PVR cable (PVC rubber?) is molded on; no connector to lose or swap. UL, CSA, and CE approvals are on file, so it passes most panel inspections without extra paperwork.