Are you interested in learning more about photoelectric sensors and their setup? Look no further! In this article, we will provide you with all the essential information you need to know about wiring and setting up 24 volt DC photoelectric sensors.
Photoelectric sensors come in three basic types: Through-Beam, Retroreflective, and Diffused. Each type has its own unique characteristics and applications. Let’s dive into the details.
Contents
Wiring the Through-Beam Photoelectric Sensor Emitter
The Through-Beam sensor consists of two separate devices: the emitter and the receiver. The emitter sends out the light, while the receiver catches it. Both devices need to be connected to a 24 volt DC power source. Before you start, make sure the power is turned off.
To wire the emitter, connect the brown wire to the 24 volt DC positive and the blue wire to the 24 volt DC negative. Once the connections are complete, you can turn the power back on, and the emitter is ready to use.
The Retroreflective sensor and the Diffused sensor are wired in the same way as the Through-Beam receiver. Connect the brown wire to the 24 volt DC positive and the blue wire to the 24 volt DC negative. Additionally, connect the sensor output black wire to the 24 volt DC Motor Starter coil to complete the wire connections. Finally, turn the power back on.
Mounting the Photoelectric Sensors
To mount the photoelectric sensors on a conveyor, we recommend using premade adjustable brackets. These brackets make the mounting and aiming process much easier. Let’s explore the mounting process for each sensor type.
Through-Beam Sensor
For the Through-Beam sensor, use a straight edge to line up and mount the emitter and receiver so they are directly across from each other, aligned with the conveyor belt. Adjust the sensor if necessary and tighten all the elements to secure the sensor in place. To check alignment, block and unblock the sensor with your hand and ensure that the sensor indicator light turns on and off. If everything is working correctly, the Through-Beam photoelectric sensor is ready to be tested.
Retroreflective Sensor
The Retroreflective sensor requires a reflector to function properly. Use a straight edge to line up and mount the sensor and the reflector so they are directly across from each other, aligned with the conveyor belt. Adjust the sensor if necessary and tighten all the components to secure the sensor and reflector in place. Test the alignment by blocking and unblocking the sensor with your hand, ensuring that the sensor indicator light turns on and off. The Retroreflective photoelectric sensor is now ready to be tested.
Diffused Sensor
To mount the Diffused sensor, place an empty box on the conveyor where you want it to stop. Mount the sensor at the front edge of the box and adjust and tighten all the components. Diffused sensors have a sensitivity adjustment screw. To set the sensitivity, position the box in front of the sensor in the middle of the conveyor belt. Adjust the sensitivity until the sensor indicator light just turns on with the box in that position. Block and unblock the sensor with the box in different positions to ensure the sensor turns on and off. Once the sensitivity is set, the Diffused sensor is ready to use.
Troubleshooting Photoelectric Sensors
If your photoelectric sensor is not working correctly, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can take. First, clean the lens of the sensor and check the alignment by blocking the sensor and observing the sensor indicator light. If the light turns on and off, the sensor is aligned. If the light doesn’t respond, adjust the sensor to realign the emitter and receiver.
If the conveyor still doesn’t start, check the Motor Starter and block the sensor again. If the Motor Starter contacts do not close, the sensor or sensor cable might be faulty and will need to be replaced.
It’s also worth noting that some photoelectric sensors have a mode selector switch for light-on and dark-on modes. Light-on mode means the sensor output turns on when the receiver sees the emitter light, while dark-on mode means the output turns on when the receiver does not detect the emitter light. If the conveyor motor stays running, the sensor might be misaligned and in dark-on mode. Flip the mode switch to light-on mode to correct this issue.
Conclusion
In conclusion, photoelectric sensors play a crucial role in industrial automation. Understanding how to properly wire and set up these sensors is essential for their successful implementation. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you will be able to effectively wire and mount Through-Beam, Retroreflective, and Diffused photoelectric sensors on a conveyor.
If you have any further questions about wiring or setting up 24 volt DC photoelectric sensors, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below. And remember, for more informative content and guides on various technology topics, visit Techal.
FAQs
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What are the three basic types of photoelectric sensors?
The three basic types of photoelectric sensors are Through-Beam, Retroreflective, and Diffused. -
How do I wire a photoelectric sensor?
For all three sensor types, connect the brown wire to the 24 volt DC positive and the blue wire to the 24 volt DC negative. Additionally, connect the sensor output black wire to the 24 volt DC Motor Starter coil. -
How do I mount a photoelectric sensor on a conveyor?
Use premade adjustable brackets to mount the sensors. Ensure proper alignment with the conveyor belt and test by blocking and unblocking the sensor to see if the indicator light turns on and off. -
How can I troubleshoot a photoelectric sensor?
If the sensor is not working correctly, clean the lens and check the alignment. Ensure the Motor Starter contacts close when the sensor is blocked. If needed, replace the sensor or sensor cable. -
What is the purpose of a reflector in a Retroreflective sensor?
A Retroreflective sensor requires a reflector to function properly. The reflector bounces the emitted light back to the receiver, allowing the sensor to detect objects.
