What the SICK LUT3-920 Luminescence Sensor Delivers

The SICK LUT3-920 is a luminescence sensor with a large zinc diecast housing and a UV LED light source. It detects luminescent markings at a sensing distance of ≤ 20 mm from the leading edge of the lens, making it a dependable choice for mission-critical presence and mark verification in oil and gas equipment.

Because the sensor responds to light emitted by the mark rather than reflected light, it can distinguish luminescent features from background surfaces. This makes This unit suitable for applications where conventional photoelectric sensors struggle with low contrast.

Key Features and Technical Specifications

• Light source: LED, ultraviolet light with average service life of 100,000 h at TU = +25 °C.
• Wavelength: 375 nm UV output for exciting luminescent markings.
• Light spot size: 3 mm × 9 mm, suited to small mark detection.
• Receiving filter: ≤ 420 nm, blocking shorter wavelengths to suppress background luminescence.
• Receiving range: 450 nm ... 750 nm for detection of emitted light.
• Sensing distance: ≤ 20 mm from the leading edge of the lens.
• Supply voltage: 12 V DC ... 30 V DC, with limit values when operated in a short-circuit protected network of max. 8 A.
• Current consumption: < 60 mA without load.
• Switching frequency: 1.5 kHz with light/dark ratio 1:1; response time 350 µs.
• Switching output: PNP/NPN, output current Imax 100 mA; analog output 0.5 mA ... 10 mA.
• Operating temperature: −10 °C ... +55 °C; storage temperature −25 °C ... +75 °C.
• Protection rating: IP67; housing material zinc diecast.
• Connection: Plug, M12, 5-pin.
• Dimensions: 53 × 30.4 × 80 mm; weight 0.4 kg.

The 375 nm UV LED is the defining feature of this model. Its 100,000-hour service life at +25 °C reduces replacement frequency in hard-to-access locations. Meanwhile, the 350 µs response time supports fast mark detection on moving webs or parts.

Why This unit Suits Demanding Oil and Gas Environments

Oil and gas operations expose sensors to temperature swings, moisture and mechanical stress. This unit is built for demanding environments, with an operating temperature range of −10 °C ... +55 °C and an IP67 protection rating. Its zinc diecast housing resists impact and corrosion in industrial settings.

Additionally, the 12 V DC ... 30 V DC supply voltage range accommodates common control cabinet voltages. The sensor also includes reverse polarity protection on UV connections and short-circuit protection on output Q. These features help prevent damage during wiring and operation.

For engineers selecting components for mission-critical processes, This unit offers field-proven reliability. The potentiometer adjustment allows on-site sensitivity tuning without software. This is valuable when marks or backgrounds vary between batches.

Applications and Use Cases

Luminescence sensors are used where marks must be detected against similar-colored backgrounds. In oil and gas manufacturing, This unit can verify the presence of luminescent thread compounds or sealants on pipe connections. It can also detect UV-visible markings on gaskets and flanges during assembly.

Beyond assembly, the sensor supports quality control in component production. For example, it can confirm that luminescent safety labels are present on valves or actuators. Because the receiving filter blocks wavelengths below 420 nm, background fluorescence from oils or lubricants is suppressed.

In packaging operations, This unit detects luminescent registration marks on films and labels. Its 1.5 kHz switching frequency and 350 µs response time allow reliable detection on fast-moving lines. This makes it suitable for high-throughput processes where missed marks cause waste.

Installation and Setup Guidance

Mount This unit so that the sensing face is within 20 mm of the target mark. The light spot measures 3 mm × 9 mm, so align the spot to cover the mark without including adjacent background. Use the potentiometer to adjust sensitivity until the output switches reliably on the mark.

Connect the sensor using the M12 5-pin plug. Ensure the supply voltage is within 12 V DC ... 30 V DC and that the network is short-circuit protected. The PNP/NPN output can be wired to match your controller input. For analog monitoring, the 0.5 mA ... 10 mA output is available.

Because the sensor uses UV light, avoid direct eye exposure to the emitted beam. Although the photobiological safety is exempt group per EN 62471:2008, standard precautions for UV sources apply.

Maintenance and Reliability

The UV LED has an average service life of 100,000 h at +25 °C, which reduces the need for frequent replacement. Periodically inspect the lens for dust or oil film that could block UV light. Clean the lens with a soft cloth and suitable cleaner for industrial optics.

Check the housing and M12 connection for damage or moisture ingress. The IP67 rating protects against dust and temporary immersion, but damaged seals can compromise performance. Also verify that the operating temperature remains within −10 °C ... +55 °C. In hot process areas, provide shielding or ventilation.

Reliability you can depend on comes from consistent inspection. Keep spare sensors on hand for critical installations to minimize downtime.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the SICK unit?

The SICK unit is a luminescence sensor with a UV LED light source. It detects luminescent markings at a sensing distance of ≤ 20 mm and operates on 12 V DC ... 30 V DC.

What is the operating temperature range of This unit?

The operating temperature range is −10 °C ... +55 °C. The storage temperature range is −25 °C ... +75 °C.

What supply voltage does This unit require?

The sensor requires a supply voltage of 12 V DC ... 30 V DC. Current consumption is < 60 mA without load.

What is the light source wavelength of This unit?

The light source is a UV LED with a wavelength of 375 nm. The average service life is 100,000 h at TU = +25 °C.

Is This unit protected against environmental ingress?

Yes, This unit has an IP67 protection rating and a zinc diecast housing. It is suitable for dusty and wet industrial environments.

Ordering This unit from PetroPartsOnline

PetroPartsOnline supplies the SICK unit and related automation components for oil and gas operations. Our team can help confirm that this sensor matches your application's requirements. Contact PetroPartsOnline for parts suited to your application's requirements.

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