What Is the SICK DS50-N1122?

The SICK DS50-N1122 is a switching distance sensor from the Dx50 series that uses HDDM™ optical time-of-flight measurement to detect natural objects up to 10,000 mm away. Its zinc die-cast housing and IP65 rating make it suitable for harsh industrial environments.

Engineered for demanding environments, this sensor combines a visible red laser with a rugged metal housing. The result is dependable performance in mission-critical oil and gas applications where dust, moisture, and temperature swings are common.

Key Features and Technical Specifications

• Measurement Principle: HDDM™ optical time-of-flight for reliable distance detection on natural surfaces.
• Measuring Range: 200 mm to 10,000 mm on 90% remission targets; 200 mm to 6,000 mm on 18% remission.
• Light Source: Visible red laser diode at 658 nm, Class 1 eye-safe per IEC 60825-1:2014.
• Supply Voltage: DC 10 V to 30 V with reverse-polarity protection.
• Power Consumption: ≤ 2.1 W without external load.
• Outputs: Two NPN digital outputs (Q1 and Q2), each rated ≤ 100 mA and short-circuit protected.
• Response Time: Fast setting 10 ms, slow setting 50 ms for averaging.
• Switching Frequency: Up to 50 Hz.
• Repeatability: ≥ 2.5 mm.
• Hysteresis: Adjustable from 1 mm to 9,999 mm.
• Operating Temperature: -30 °C to +65 °C as standard; up to +80 °C with two cooling plates.
• Enclosure Rating: IP65 per EN 60529.
• Electrical Connection: M12 5-pin male connector.
• Housing: Zinc die-cast (ZNAL4CU1) with acrylic glass (PMMA) optical window.
• Dimensions: 36.1 mm x 62.7 mm x 57.7 mm.
• Weight: Approximately 200 g.

How Does This unit Perform in Harsh Oil and Gas Environments?

This unit is built for demanding environments. Its zinc die-cast housing resists mechanical impact and corrosion, while the PMMA optical window protects the laser optics from dust and debris. With an IP65 rating, the sensor is protected against dust ingress and water jets, making it suitable for washdown areas and outdoor installations.

The standard operating temperature range of -30 °C to +65 °C covers most oil and gas field conditions. For higher-temperature zones, SICK offers cooling plates that extend the range to +80 °C. This flexibility allows engineers to deploy the sensor in applications where heat is a concern, such as near engine exhausts or process heaters.

Electrical robustness is equally important. The supply voltage of DC 10 V to 30 V accommodates common industrial power supplies, and reverse-polarity protection prevents damage from wiring errors. The two NPN outputs can drive small loads directly, and short-circuit protection adds a layer of reliability in mission-critical operations.

Typical Applications and Use Cases

In oil and gas automation, This unit excels in position monitoring and presence detection. For example, it can verify the position of valve actuators or check that a pipeline pig has passed a specific point. The 10 m range on natural objects means it can detect large targets without special reflectors.

Another common use is level measurement in tanks or silos. The sensor’s adjustable hysteresis and switching frequency allow it to ignore foam or surface ripples while reliably detecting the product level. Because the laser is Class 1 eye-safe, it can be used in areas where personnel may be present without additional safety measures.

Material handling systems also benefit from This unit. Its fast 10 ms response time supports high-speed sorting and positioning tasks. The rugged housing withstands the vibration and shock typical of conveyor systems, ensuring reliable operation over time.

Installation and Integration Guidance

Mounting This unit is straightforward thanks to its compact dimensions and standard M12 connector. Use the 5-pin male connector to wire power and the two digital outputs. The multifunctional input (MF) can be configured for various functions; refer to the official datasheet for configuration details.

When integrating into a control system, ensure the supply voltage is within the 10 V to 30 V range. The NPN outputs are compatible with most PLCs and controllers that accept sinking inputs. For network integration, note that this sensor does not include a fieldbus interface; however, its digital outputs can be connected to remote I/O modules or gateways. Contact PetroPartsOnline for parts suited to your application's requirements.

For optimal performance, align the sensor perpendicular to the target surface. The visible red laser spot aids alignment. Avoid mounting the sensor where strong ambient light or reflective surfaces could interfere with the measurement.

Maintenance and Reliability

This unit requires minimal maintenance. Periodically inspect the optical window for dust or dirt buildup and clean it with a soft, lint-free cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners that could scratch the PMMA window. Check the mounting hardware for tightness, especially in high-vibration areas.

The sensor’s repeatability of ≥ 2.5 mm ensures consistent measurements over time. If the application involves extreme temperatures, consider adding cooling plates to stay within the operating range. Regular inspection of the connector and cabling helps prevent moisture ingress and maintains the IP65 rating.

With its rugged construction and field-proven design, This unit offers reliability you can depend on in critical operations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum measuring distance of This unit?

The SICK unit measures up to 10,000 mm on targets with 90% remission. On darker surfaces (18% remission), the range is 6,000 mm, and on very dark surfaces (6% remission), it is 4,000 mm.

Can This unit operate in high-temperature environments?

The standard operating temperature range is -30 °C to +65 °C. With two cooling plates, the range extends to +80 °C. For even higher temperatures, a protection filter is available to reach +140 °C, but this requires verification with SICK.

What type of electrical connection does This unit use?

The sensor features an M12 5-pin male connector. It requires a supply voltage of DC 10 V to 30 V and provides two NPN digital outputs.

Is This unit suitable for outdoor use?

Yes, the IP65 rating and wide temperature range make it suitable for outdoor installations. However, direct exposure to severe weather should be minimized, and the optical window should be kept clean.

How does This unit handle ambient light interference?

The HDDM™ time-of-flight principle provides high immunity to ambient light. The sensor uses a visible red laser and advanced signal processing to maintain accuracy even in bright conditions.

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