Packaging machines are where Datalogic (Datasensing) sensors work hardest in India: flow-wrap, pouch, sachet, labelling, cartoning, filling and capping machines all depend on fast and reliable sensors. This guide shows which type of sensor is used for each job, with the Datalogic models we supply most often.
1. Print mark (eye-mark) detection – contrast sensors
On flow-wrap, pouch and sachet machines, the film has a printed mark that tells the machine where to cut and seal. A contrast sensor reads this mark at high speed.
- TL50-W-815 – RGB light, easy push-button teach-in. See the TL50 guide.
- TL46-W-815 – rugged aluminium housing, 15 kHz. See the TL46 guide.
- TLu-115 and TLu-011 – compact contrast sensors.
- TL80 – very fast, with green or red light and interchangeable lenses. See the TL80 guide.
Not sure which one? Read how to choose a Datalogic contrast sensor.
2. Label detection – fork (slot) label sensors
Labelling machines must stop each label exactly at the peel plate. A fork label sensor looks through the backing paper and detects the gap between labels.
- SR21-IR – standard label sensor for paper labels.
- SR23 – fork label sensor; see the guide below for versions.
- SR31 – 30 mm fork for small parts and edges.
See the SR21, SR23 and SR31 guide and label sensor vs contrast sensor.
3. Product and carton detection – photoelectric sensors
Conveyors, cartoners and case packers need to know when a product or carton arrives.
- Polarised retroreflective sensors with a reflector are the most reliable choice for boxes and shiny products, for example the S5N-PA-5-B01-PP (M18) or S62-PA-5-B01-PP (compact).
- Background suppression sensors detect dark or mixed-colour cartons while ignoring the machine frame behind, for example the S5N-PA-5-M03-PP. See background suppression explained.
- Small spaces: the S15 short M18 sensor or the miniature S41.
4. Clear bottles and film – transparent object sensors
PET bottles, glass and clear film let most light through, so standard sensors miss them. Use a retroreflective sensor for transparent objects, such as the S60-PA-5-T51-PP or S15-NA-5-T01-NK.
5. Small parts, caps and edges – fibre optics and fork sensors
For very small objects, tight spaces or high temperatures near sealing jaws, use a fibre-optic amplifier with Datalogic optical fibres, or a fork sensor such as the SR31.
6. Metal parts and machine positions – inductive sensors
Inductive proximity sensors detect metal cams, gears and moving parts to tell the machine its position, for example the IS-12 and IS-18. See the inductive sensor guide.
7. Speed and position – encoders
An encoder on the film roll or conveyor measures length and speed for accurate cutting, for example the ENC58. See the ENC58 guide.
8. Operator safety – safety light curtains
Openings where operators can reach moving parts must be guarded. A safety light curtain such as the SG2 stops the machine when the light beams are interrupted. See the SG2 guide.
Quick reference
| Job on the machine | Sensor type | Typical Datalogic model |
|---|---|---|
| Cut and seal registration | Contrast sensor | TL50-W-815, TL46-W-815 |
| Label stop | Fork label sensor | SR21-IR, SR23 |
| Carton on conveyor | Polarised retroreflective | S5N-PA-5-B01-PP |
| Dark cartons | Background suppression | S5N-PA-5-M03-PP |
| Clear bottles | Transparent object sensor | S60-PA-5-T51-PP |
| Machine position | Inductive sensor | IS-12, IS-18 |
| Length and speed | Encoder | ENC58 |
| Operator guarding | Safety light curtain | SG2 |
Most of these sensors have M12 or M8 connectors. Remember to order the right cable: see the M12 and M8 cable guide.
Frequently asked questions
Which sensor is used for eye-mark detection on packaging machines?
A contrast (colour mark) sensor such as the Datalogic TL50-W-815 or TL46-W-815.
Which sensor detects labels on a labelling machine?
A fork label sensor such as the Datalogic SR21-IR or SR23, which detects the gap between labels.
How do I detect clear PET bottles?
Use a retroreflective sensor for transparent objects, such as the S60-PA-5-T51-PP, with a reflector.
Can you help choose sensors for a new packaging machine?
Yes. Send us the machine type, product, speed and PLC input type, and we will suggest the right Datalogic sensors.
Do you supply OEM machine builders?
Yes. We supply single replacement sensors and regular quantities for packaging machine builders across India.
Buy from VXT Sensor
VXT Sensor, Noida, supplies genuine Datalogic (Datasensing) sensors across India. Send us the model code or describe your application, and we will confirm the right model, datasheet, price and delivery time. Send an enquiry or call +91 99530 39482.
Looking for the right Datalogic sensor?
Genuine products from VXT Sensor, Noida. Tell us your application and we reply with the right model, price and delivery time.
