The SICK IME18-05BPOZC0S is an M18 threaded-barrel inductive proximity sensor with a 5 mm flush sensing range. That 5 mm detection window means it reliably picks up ferrous targets at close proximity — typical for end-of-stroke detection on pneumatic cylinders or presence verification on small parts where the actuator passes within that gap. The PNP normally closed output (sinking current up to 200 mA at 10-30 VDC) means the signal line goes high when the target is absent and drops when the target enters the field; if your PLC input card expects a sourcing signal and your safety circuit expects a closed-loop when the target is present, this NC configuration avoids a logic inversion at the input module. The M12 male 4-pin connector mates directly to standard M12 field-wireable cordsets or pre-molded cables — no pigtail splicing, which keeps the shield continuity intact on long runs.
Deployment context
Brass nickel-plated housing handles the typical washdown and coolant splash you see on machining centers and packaging lines. The M18 thread lets you mount it through a standard 18 mm drilled hole or into an M18 weld-on bracket; torque to the housing spec (typically 10-15 Nm for brass) to avoid crushing the internal coil former.