Autonics PRL18-5AC M18 5mm AC Inductive Proximity Sensor
The Autonics PRL18-5AC is an M18 cylindrical inductive proximity sensor designed for non contact detection of metallic objects in industrial automation systems. It provides a 5 mm sensing distance, AC 2 wire normally closed output, 100 to 240 VAC power supply, flush mounting, red LED operation indication, and IP67 protection. The long body design makes it suitable for machine tools, conveyor systems, packaging equipment, industrial machinery, and position sensing applications.
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A. Product Overview
The Autonics PRL18-5AC is a cylindrical inductive proximity sensor designed for detecting metallic objects without physical contact.
It belongs to the long body M18 proximity sensor range and is suitable for industrial installations where additional body length can help with mounting, adjustment, and positioning.
The PRL18-5AC uses AC 2 wire operation and works directly with a 100 to 240 VAC supply. It provides a normally closed switching output and a sensing distance of 5 mm.
Key Specifications
Model: PRL18-5AC
Product type: Inductive proximity sensor
Body type: Cylindrical threaded
Body size: M18
Body design: Long body
Installation: Flush
Sensing distance: 5 mm
Recommended setting distance: Up to approximately 3.5 mm
Standard sensing target: 18 by 18 by 1 mm iron
Output configuration: AC 2 wire
Switching operation: Normally closed
Power supply: 100 to 240 VAC
Operating voltage range: 85 to 264 VAC
Frequency: 50 or 60 Hz
Response frequency: 20 Hz
Control output current: 5 to 200 mA
Leakage current: Maximum 2.5 mA
Residual voltage: Maximum 10 V
Operation indicator: Red LED
Protection circuit: Surge protection
Protection rating: IP67
Connection: Cable type
Case and nut material: Nickel plated brass
Sensing surface material: PBT
Operating temperature: Minus 25 to 70 degrees Celsius
Operating humidity: 35 to 95 percent RH
B. Working Principle
The Autonics PRL18-5AC works using the inductive proximity sensing principle.
An electromagnetic field is generated around the sensing surface of the sensor. When a metallic target enters this field, eddy currents are generated in the metal.
These eddy currents affect the electromagnetic field created by the sensor. The internal electronic circuit detects this change and switches the output.
The operating sequence is:
The sensor is connected to a 100 to 240 VAC power supply.
The sensing face generates an electromagnetic field.
When no metallic target is present, the normally closed output remains in its normal operating state.
A metal target approaches the sensing face.
The metal interacts with the electromagnetic field.
The sensor detects the resulting change.
The output changes state.
The red LED indicates sensor operation.
The connected control circuit uses this output for machine monitoring or control.
When the target moves away, the output returns to its original state.
Since there is no physical contact between the sensor and target, the sensor can perform repetitive detection with minimal mechanical wear.
C. Why Is the Autonics PRL18-5AC Used?
The PRL18-5AC is used when industrial machines require reliable detection of metallic objects while operating from an AC power source.
It can be used as a non contact alternative to mechanical switches in suitable applications.
Common Applications
The PRL18-5AC can be used for:
Metal object detection
Machine position sensing
Machine limit detection
Conveyor monitoring
Production line automation
Component presence detection
Metal plate detection
Gear position sensing
Machine tool automation
Packaging machinery
Material handling systems
Assembly line equipment
Industrial counting systems
Position confirmation
Automated manufacturing machines
Metal processing equipment
Machine sequencing
Equipment interlocking
Why Use an M18 Sensor?
The M18 threaded cylindrical body provides convenient mounting using nuts and brackets.
This design is widely used in:
Industrial machines
Conveyor frames
Machine tool structures
Metal brackets
Production equipment
Automation assemblies
Why Is the Long Body Design Useful?
The PRL18 model uses a longer body compared with standard length M18 sensors.
The longer body can help with:
Deeper panel mounting
Easier adjustment
Thick mounting brackets
Restricted machine mounting locations
Improved access to mounting nuts
Replacement of existing long body sensors
Why Use Normally Closed Operation?
A normally closed sensor maintains its normal switching state when no target is detected and changes state when a target enters the sensing area.
This configuration may be preferred in certain machine interlocking, position monitoring, and control applications.
D. Suitable Buyers
The Autonics PRL18-5AC is suitable for industrial customers requiring an AC powered M18 proximity sensor for metal detection.
Typical buyers include:
Industrial automation companies
Machine manufacturers
Original equipment manufacturers
System integrators
Electrical control panel manufacturers
Machine tool manufacturers
Packaging machine manufacturers
Conveyor manufacturers
Material handling equipment manufacturers
Automobile component manufacturers
Metal processing industries
Manufacturing plants
Factory automation companies
Production line manufacturers
Industrial maintenance departments
Electrical engineers
Automation engineers
Maintenance engineers
Machine designers
Production engineers
Industrial electrical contractors
Industrial spare parts suppliers
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the Autonics PRL18-5AC?
The Autonics PRL18-5AC is an M18 cylindrical inductive proximity sensor designed for non contact detection of metallic objects.
2. What is the sensing distance of PRL18-5AC?
The rated sensing distance is 5 mm.
3. What is the recommended setting distance?
The recommended setting distance is up to approximately 3.5 mm.
4. What is the body size of PRL18-5AC?
The sensor uses an M18 cylindrical threaded body.
5. What does PRL mean in PRL18-5AC?
The PRL designation identifies the long body version within the cylindrical inductive proximity sensor family.
6. Is PRL18-5AC an AC proximity sensor?
Yes. It is an AC powered 2 wire inductive proximity sensor.
7. What power supply does PRL18-5AC require?
It operates from 100 to 240 VAC at 50 or 60 Hz.
8. What is the operating voltage range?
The specified operating voltage range is 85 to 264 VAC.
9. Is PRL18-5AC normally open or normally closed?
The PRL18-5AC uses normally closed switching operation.
10. What does normally closed mean?
Normally closed means the output maintains its normal conducting state when the target is absent and changes state when a suitable metallic target is detected.
