Proximity Sensors

Choose an Industrial Proximity Sensor in Four Steps

Start with the target, not the thread size. An inductive proximity sensor detects metal without contact; a capacitive proximity sensor can also detect non-metal targets such as plastic, glass, powder or liquid when the application is validated. Then choose the mounting geometry, sensing distance and output that match the machine input.

The catalogue below covers cylindrical M3, M4, M5, M6, D6.5, M8, M12, M18 and M30 bodies, compact square housings, cable and quick-disconnect versions, flush and non-flush mounting, NPN or PNP outputs, and selected 2-wire DC or AC families. Use the decision map first, then open the matching series card for its exact model table.

Choose Inductive or Capacitive by Target Material

Choose inductive for repeatable detection of steel, aluminium and other metal machine parts. It is the default for gear teeth, cylinder positions, fixtures and end stops because the sensing principle responds to conductive metal rather than surface colour. Choose capacitive when the target is non-metal or must be detected through a non-metal wall; the catalogue includes M8, M12, M18, M30 and square capacitive families.

Capacitive sensing is more application-dependent because material density, moisture, container wall thickness and nearby metal affect the usable setting. For a new material, treat the published nominal range as a selection starting point and validate the actual target before production release.

M8, M12, M18 or M30 Proximity Sensor?

Thread size controls far more than the mounting hole. Small M8 and sub-M8 sensors fit grippers, compact slides and narrow brackets; M12 is the general machine-building size; M18 and M30 bodies provide room for longer nominal distances and more robust mounting. If the existing hole must stay, choose the thread first and compare only the ranges available in that body.

For a common threaded industrial range, start with the M8 inductive series, M12 short-body series, or M18/M30 inductive series. For a cost-led M8–M30 platform, compare the JNX/JNS economy family.

Select the Mounting Style and Required Clearance

A flush sensor can be embedded with its sensing face level with surrounding metal. A non-flush sensor needs free space around the sensing face because its field extends sideways as well as forward. Non-flush versions often provide a longer nominal distance in the same diameter, but installing one inside a metal pocket can reduce range or keep the output permanently active.

Our model names and tables identify the mounting style for each family; do not infer it from body length alone. The visual below shows the mechanical difference before you choose the bracket; the proximity sensor selection guide keeps the detailed comparison in one place.

NPN, PNP, 2-Wire, Cable or Connector

For 3-wire DC sensors, match NPN or PNP to the receiving PLC input rather than choosing by region or habit. Normally-open and normally-closed logic is a separate decision. The NPN vs PNP output guide explains the current path; the series pages list the actual suffixes.

Choose a molded cable where vibration resistance and a sealed permanent lead matter. Choose a quick-disconnect connector where maintenance teams need fast replacement without pulling a new cable. The JM12 M12 connector series and JM M18/M30 connector series are the direct starting points. If the circuit specifically requires two conductors, use the DC 2-wire family or AC 2-wire family instead of adapting a 3-wire output.

Compact and Long-Range Proximity Sensor Options

For compact fixtures, published family envelopes begin with M3/M4/M5 models around 0.6–1.5 mm and M8 families around 1–6 mm. Standard M12 inductive families extend through the published options on their product pages, while selected M18/M30 non-flush inductive models publish the longest catalogue distances in this category, up to 40 mm. Selected adjustable capacitive families publish options up to 30 mm.

These are family envelopes, not a promise for every model or target. The selected housing, flush/non-flush mounting and target material determine the rated distance, and a production design should keep operating margin instead of mounting exactly at the catalogue limit.

What Affects the Cost of a Proximity Sensor?

Quotation depends on sensing principle, body size and shape, sensing distance, flush/non-flush construction, 2-wire or 3-wire circuit, AC or DC supply, NPN/PNP and N.O./N.C. logic, molded cable or connector, cable length and order quantity. We do not publish one flat price because those choices change the part itself.

For a comparable quotation, send the target material, required operating gap, housing size, mounting style, supply voltage, output logic, cable or connector preference and quantity.

Have those application facts ready? Send them through the inquiry form for a model-level recommendation and quotation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Selection Help & Related

📘 Not sure which series? How to Choose a Proximity Sensor · NPN vs PNP Sensor Outputs Explained

▶ Watch application video cases