Telemecanique Capacitive Proximity Sensors: XT218 & XT230 for Level and Non-Metal Detection
Detect plastic, powder, granules and liquids — even through a tank wall.
An inductive sensor only sees metal. When you need to know whether a hopper is full of plastic granules, a bottle contains liquid or a carton is present on a line, you need a Telemecanique capacitive proximity sensor. The XT range senses almost any material, has an adjustable sensitivity potentiometer and comes in M18 and M30 plastic housings. Here is how to choose between the XT218 and XT230 and how to set them up.
When to Choose a Capacitive Sensor
| Question | Capacitive (XT) | Inductive |
|---|---|---|
| Detects | Metals and non-metals: plastic, glass, wood, powder, liquid | Metals only |
| Through a container wall | Yes, through non-metallic walls | No |
| Speed | Up to a few hundred Hz | Typically much faster |
| Affected by moisture and dust build-up | Yes — adjust sensitivity | Largely unaffected |
| Typical use | Level, presence of non-metal products | Metal part position and counting |
XT218A1PCM12 vs XT230A1PAL2
| Feature | XT218A1PCM12 | XT230A1PAL2 |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | M18 plastic, non-flush | M30 plastic, non-flush |
| Sensing distance (Sn) | 8 mm | 15 mm |
| Output | PNP, 1 NO + 1 NC | PNP, 1 NO |
| Switching frequency | ≤ 200 Hz | ≤ 150 Hz |
| Connection | M12 4-pin connector | 2 m cable, 3-wire |
| Supply | 12–24 V DC | 12–24 V DC |
| Protection | IP67 | IP67, double insulation |
Data from Telemecanique Sensors. Confirm with the product datasheet.
Typical Capacitive Sensing Jobs
Hopper and silo level
High/low level of plastic granules, grain, sugar or powder in feed hoppers.
Liquid level through a wall
Detecting water, oil or chemicals through a plastic or glass tank wall.
Non-metal presence
Cartons, wooden pallets, glass bottles or plastic parts on a conveyor.
Fill checks
Checking that a closed bottle or container has been filled.
Telemecanique XT Sensors in Stock
Adjusting the Sensitivity Potentiometer
- Mount with free space around the face. These are non-flush sensors — keep surrounding metal away from the sensing face.
- Start from the empty condition. With no material present, turn the potentiometer until the output LED just switches, then back off until it turns off.
- Add the material. Fill to the level you want to detect and confirm the LED switches on reliably.
- Allow a margin for build-up. Dust or moisture on the face can trigger the sensor; leave some margin and clean the face during maintenance.
- Earth the machine frame. A good earth reference gives a more stable switching point.
Capacitive Sensor FAQs
What can a capacitive proximity sensor detect?
A capacitive sensor reacts to any material that changes the electric field in front of its face — plastic, wood, glass, paper, powder, granules and liquids as well as metal. That is why it is used where an inductive sensor, which sees metal only, cannot work.
Can the XT230 detect liquid through a tank wall?
Yes, capacitive sensors are commonly used to detect liquids or granules through a non-metallic wall such as plastic or glass, provided the wall is not too thick. Adjust the sensitivity potentiometer so the sensor switches on the contents and not on the empty wall.
What is the difference between XT218A1PCM12 and XT230A1PAL2?
The XT218 is an M18 sensor with 8 mm sensing distance, PNP 1 NO + 1 NC outputs and an M12 connector. The XT230 is an M30 sensor with 15 mm sensing distance, a PNP NO output and a 2 m cable. Both are plastic, non-flush and have a sensitivity potentiometer.
Why is the sensing distance lower on some materials?
The nominal distance (Sn) is measured on an earthed metal target. Materials with a lower dielectric constant, such as dry plastic or paper, switch at a shorter distance — the potentiometer lets you compensate.
How fast are XT capacitive sensors?
Much slower than inductive sensors: ≤ 200 Hz for the XT218A1PCM12 and ≤ 150 Hz for the XT230A1PAL2. They are ideal for level and presence checks, not high-speed counting.
Tell Us About Your Material and Container
Send the material, container wall type and thickness, and mounting space. We will confirm the right Telemecanique XT sensor and quote from stock.
Office Address
F412 (4th floor), Plot No-21, Arthamart, Techzone-4, Noida Extension, UP — 201318
By appointment only
📋 Quick Enquiry
Reply within business hours on WhatsApp and email.
⚡ Prefer Quick Phone Consultation?
Call our application engineers directly for immediate assistance and personalised recommendations. Office Time: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Mon–Sat).
📞 Call Sales: +91 99530 39482 📞 Support: +91 99530 39482