Inductive Cylindrical sensors PK3 Series

Datasensing PK3 Series

The PK3 Series delivers sturdy and versatile inductive sensing in a standard M18 format. With a choice of flush or non-flush mounting, and reliable electronics packaged in a nickel-plated brass housing, these sensors ensure consistent detection of metal objects under varied installation conditions.

Design & Functionality

• The series features an M18 × 1 cylindrical body made of nickel-plated brass—ideal for standard industrial mounting and solid durability. 
• Nominal sensing distance is 5 mm for the flush-mount variant (shielded) and 8 mm for the non-flush (unshielded) model, enabling you to match the sensor to your mounting clearance and target size. 
• Offers both NPN and PNP output types, configurable NO or NC functions, and connection options including M12 plug or axial cable—providing flexibility for wiring and system integration. 
• Built-in protections: reverse-polarity protection, short-circuit auto-reset, impulsive over-voltage protection and ripple tolerance ≤ 10% ensure reliable operation in industrial environments.

Total Crossed Beams

(In this inductive sensor context, this concept corresponds to a consistent magnetic sensing field across the sensor face rather than literal optical beams.)

• The PK3 maintains a stable detection zone, meaning that even when mounted flush or slightly offset, the sensor reliably detects metal parts within its nominal range.
• Supports repeatable detection (< 5% repeat accuracy), reducing missed triggers in automation systems. 

Beam Pitch Options

(Here this relates to selectable nominal sensing distances and mounting style rather than actual beam pitch.)

• Flush (shielded) models: ~5 mm nominal distance; Non-flush (unshielded) models: ~8 mm nominal distance—giving you the choice based on installation clearance and background conditions. 
• Correction factors for different metals (e.g., copper: ~0.40, aluminium: ~0.48, brass: ~0.72, stainless steel: ~0.86) support accurate detection across material types. 

Intrinsic Synchronism

• Internal electronics ensure synchronisation of output, handling of protective functions, and minimal wiring complexity—simplifying installation.
• Time-before-availability is very short (≤ 100 ms typical), making the sensor ready quickly after power-up.

Operational Advantages

• Standard Form Factor with Versatile Mounting: The M18 thread size and choice of flush/non-flush allow the PK3 to fit widely across general manufacturing and automation applications.
• Reliable Metal Detection Across Conditions: With high repeatability, material correction factors and robust housing, the sensor delivers dependable performance even when target material or background varies.
• Applications: Ideal for metal-part detection on conveyors, machine tools, packaging lines, assembly stations and general automation systems where metal part presence, standard mounting, and industrial-grade protection are required.