Capacitive Switches
Versatile sensors capable of detecting both metallic and non-metallic objects (such as powders, liquids, or plastic). They are often used for level sensing through non-metallic tank walls.
ifm electronic | Capacitive Sensors
ifm is a world leader in capacitive technology, particularly for Level Sensing. Their sensors are sourced for their ability to “see through” non-metallic container walls (like plastic or glass) to detect the product inside without ever touching it. They are also pioneers in IO-Link integration, providing real-time data on the “dielectric value” of the material being sensed.
KI Series (M30)
Model Number: KI5001
Adjustable sensing range (3–15mm); high noise immunity; plastic or metal housings.
Key Technical Specifications:
Features a 270° turn potentiometer on the back, allowing you to tune the sensor to ignore a plastic tank wall and only trigger when the liquid level reaches it.
Advanced circuitry suppresses interference from electrostatic discharges or nearby electromagnetic fields from large motors.
Includes a LED that flickers when the target is in the “unsafe” sensing zone, allowing for perfect physical alignment during installation.
KTE Series
Model Number: KT5312
Capable of detecting a finger through gloves; integrated RGB LED status rings; IP69K rated.
Key Technical Specifications:
Detects a human finger without any mechanical pressure, reducing operator fatigue on high-repetition assembly lines.
The integrated RGB LED ring can be programmed via IO-Link to change colors (e.g., Green for OK, Red for Fault, Blue for Busy).
Rated at IP69K, these switches can be hit with high-pressure steam cleaners and are virtually impossible to “jam” because they have no moving parts.
Allen-Bradley | 875C & 875L Series
Allen-Bradley’s capacitive line is built for industrial ruggedness. While Siemens and ifm focus on process level, AB’s 875 series is often sourced for Material Handling—detecting cardboard boxes, glass bottles, or plastic parts on a conveyor where an inductive sensor would fail.
875C (Nickel-Brass)
Model Number: 875C-D8NP18-D4
Better for “Flush Mounting” in metal; concentrated field for high-precision detection.
Key Technical Specifications:
he shielded design allows the sensor to be embedded directly into a metal machine frame without the metal “damping” the sensor’s field.
Features built-in protection against reverse polarity and transients, preventing the sensor from burning out during a wiring error.
Equipped with two LEDs—one for Power and one for Output—allowing for instant diagnosis without a multimeter.
875L
Model Number: 875L-N25NP30-D4
Longer sensing distances (up to 25mm); better for sensing difficult low-dielectric materials.
Key Technical Specifications:
The unshielded, plastic-housed design projects a wider electrostatic field, enabling it to detect targets from further away (up to 25mm).
The full PBT plastic barrel is immune to many industrial chemicals and salts that would corrode a standard metal sensor.
Optimized for “difficult” targets like dry grains, powders, or paper, which have low dielectric constants.
Sourcing for Capacitive Switches?
Our solutions empower you to optimize efficiency and bolster reliability.