Turn the face on these switches to sense metallic objects from the front, sides, top, or bottom. They’re a good replacement for limit switches with actuators that often break when hit. Also known as inductive proximity switches, they detect objects even if they’re covered by water, oil, dirt, or a surface finish. They’re often used in conveyor and bin filling systems, refineries, and mills. Sensing distance is based on the type of material being sensed; the distance listed is for mild steel. LED status indicators on the corners mean you can check your switch from any angle. All switches meet American, Canadian, and European safety standards.

You can send PNP or NPN signals from these switches to programmable logic controllers (PLCs). Use Testers for Proximity and Photoelectric Switches to determine the signal output of a switch you’re replacing.

Flush switches, also known as embeddable and shielded switches, are more accurate than projecting switches at close range. They also won’t cause interference when mounted close together. The sensor face mounts evenly with any material, including metal.

Projecting switches, also called non-embeddable and unshielded switches, sense objects farther away than flush switches. But, they require the area around the sensor to be free of metal.

Switches with a 4-pole micro M12 plug connect to cables with a socket (sold separately), so you can quickly connect and disconnect them. To view switch wiring diagrams, select a part number and click Product Detail. Attach switches with screw terminals to optional M12 connectors with a receptacle to convert them to a standard 4-pole M12 plug.

All switches seal out dust and stand up to some submersion. IP69- and IP69K-rated switches also handle high-pressure washdowns.