SICK: IMX – Inductive Proximity Sensors
April 1, 2025
IMX Inductive Sensors: Rugged, Versatile and 4x the Range in Industrial Environments
Significantly greater distances: IMX offers four times the sensing range of conventional sensors, setting a new standard for inductive proximity sensors. Sensing ranges of up to 50 mm ensure a higher process performance – making IMX ideal for applications that were previously inconceivable with inductive sensors. In space-critical applications, IMX sensors save installation space by using smaller designs and at the same time, the greater distance reduces mechanical damage. The rugged, durable design ensures less downtimes, stable processes and high plant availability.
Benefits
- Less installation space required than for larger standard sensors with comparable sensing ranges
- Reduced risk of mechanical damage due to larger mounting distance from the target object
- Avoidance of incorrect switching and more stable processes thanks to high operating reserves
- Low mutual interference, several sensors can be installed close to each other
- Higher degree of standardization by using the same sensors for different applications
- Quick and easy commissioning thanks to visual adjustment indicator and no need for prior parameterization
- Long sensor service life thanks to rugged and durable design
Features
- Types: M8 to M30
- Large sensing ranges: 4 mm to 50 mm
- Enclosure rating: IP68
- Temperature range: –25 °C to +75 °C
- Nickel-plated brass housing, plastic sensing face
- Visual adjustment indicator
- Resistant against oils and cooling lubricant
- 4-fold sensing ranges
Advantages
4-fold Sensing Range for Larger Distances
With their 4-fold sensing ranges, IMX sensors detect objects from a greater distance than other inductive proximity sensors and thereby open up new application possibilities. The sensors can be used in many applications where space is limited or additional distance is required. With sensing ranges of up to 50 mm, they ensure stable processes as objects can be detected from a safe distance without the risk of collision. IMX sensors allow the use of smaller designs without compromising the sensing range. In addition, the degree of standardization can be increased by using the same sensors in different applications.
For applications that need larger distances:
- 4-fold sensing ranges of up to 300% greater detection distance compared to standard sensors.
- Detection from a safe distance reduces the risk of collisions and mechanical damage.
- Less installation space required to achieve comparable sensing ranges; IMX sensors can be selected one size smaller than standard sensors.
Simple & Safe Installation
IMX sensors save valuable installation time and ensure the detection of objects. The sensors can be mounted close to each other as the mutual magnetic interference is minimal. The visual adjustment indicator facilitates correct installation by signaling the safe switching on and off of the sensor ensuring the object is detected over the entire temperature range during operation. Thanks to plug and play, the sensors are quickly ready for operation and do not need to be parameterized by specialist personnel.
Time-saving installation thanks to features that make installation easier:
- Mutual interference between IMX sensors is minimal so they can be installed close to each other.
- The visual adjustment indicator ensures the sensor functions reliably.
- Thanks to plug and play, the sensor can be commissioned without additional configuration.
Reliable in Many Fields of Application
Thanks to its rugged design, the IMX works reliably even under harsh conditions, as the sensor is resistant to oils, coolants and other contamination that can arise in production facilities and machines. Due to its high leak tightness, shock resistance, and good EMC properties, the IMX is suitable for numerous applications and environments. These properties increase the service life of the sensor and ensure stable processes. This reduces downtimes due to maintenance work, thereby resulting in higher plant productivity.
Rugged, durable design:
- High chemical resistance to coolants and lubricating oils thanks to LCP cap, PUR encapsulation, and cable sheathing.
- Leak tightness in accordance with enclosure rating IP68 and good shock resistance benefit the service life and reliability of the product.
- The EMC properties of the product prevent faulty switching caused by interfering electrical components.
