The SICK IM18-08NPS-ZW1 is an 18 mm cylindrical inductive proximity sensor with an 8 mm sensing range, PNP normally open output, and a 2-meter cable connection. It operates on 10-30 V DC and draws ≤ 20 mA quiescent, switching up to 400 mA continuous load. The 8 mm range is the key fit parameter — it detects ferrous targets at that distance without physical contact, so it replaces a limit switch or microswitch in position-sensing applications where you need non-contact reliability.
Non-flush mountable means the sensing face can protrude from a metal bracket without the surrounding metal extending the effective range — install it through a hole in a bracket or panel and the 8 mm range stays consistent. The IP67 rating seals the metal barrel and cable entry against dust and temporary immersion, so it survives washdown on a packaging line or coolant splash in a machining center.
Output and wiring
Three-wire PNP normally open — the output switches high (to the supply voltage) when a target enters the 8 mm detection zone. Standard wiring: brown to +10-30 V DC, blue to 0 V, black to the PLC input. The 400 mA continuous rating is enough to drive a small relay or contactor coil directly, but watch the inrush if you do — inductive loads need a flyback diode across the coil. Switching frequency is 600 Hz, which is fine for counting parts on a conveyor at moderate speed but not for high-speed cam or encoder replacement.