Pepperl+Fuchs DK21-9,5_110_124 Print Mark Contrast Sensor

Technical Overview

The Pepperl+Fuchs DK21-9,5/110/124 is a robust print mark contrast sensor engineered for precise detection across various industrial applications. This diffuse mode sensor utilizes an RGB LED light source with green, red, and blue emitters, providing excellent contrast recognition for any print mark. Key features include a 9.5 mm detection range, a rectangular 1 mm x 4 mm light spot, and a rapid 30 µs response time, making it suitable for high-speed scanning processes. It incorporates dynamic TEACH-IN functionality for automatic switching threshold adaptation with a single key pressure, simplifying setup and ensuring optimal performance. The sensor is housed in an IP67-rated industrial standard enclosure, featuring eight M5 metal-reinforced inserts for secure mounting and high-grade glass lenses for durability. It offers powerful push-pull outputs (NPN/PNP) and connects via a 5-pin M12 x 1 connector, ensuring reliable integration into existing control systems.

Key Features

Diffuse mode sensor for recording any print mark
Dynamic TEACH-IN: automatic switching threshold adaptation with one key pressure
Optical system exchangeable by 90°
30 µs response time for extremely rapid scanning processes
3 emitter colors: green, red and blue
Robust IP67 tight industrial standard housing
Eight M5 metal reinforced inserts for secure sensor mounting
High-grade glass lenses
Powerful push-pull outputs (NPN/PNP/push-pull)
9.5 mm detection range

Technical Specification Matrix

Parameter	Value
Sensor range	9.5 mm ± 3 mm
Light source	LED
Light type	Visible green/red/blue, modulated light
Light spot representation	rectangular 1 mm x 4 mm
Angle deviation	max. ± 3°
Ambient light limit (Continuous light)	7000 Lux
Teach-In	Dynamic Teach-In
MTTFd	650 a
Mission Time (TM)	20 a
Diagnostic Coverage (DC)	0%
Function indicator	LED yellow; switching operation: lights up if print mark is detected; Alarm display: flashing quickly, if no safe operation is possible
Control elements	Teach-In key
Operating voltage (UB)	10 ... 30 V DC
Ripple	10 %
No-load supply current (I0)	≤ 60 mA
Function input	Teach-In input
Signal output	Push-pull output, short-circuit protected, reverse polarity protected
Switching voltage (PNP)	≥ (+UB -2.5 V)
Switching voltage (NPN)	≤ 1.5 V
Switching current	max. 200 mA
Switching frequency (f)	16.5 kHz
Response time	30 µs
Product standard	EN 60947-5-2
Shock and impact resistance	IEC / EN 60068. half-sine, 40 g in each X, Y and Z directions
Vibration resistance	IEC / EN 60068-2-6. Sinus. 10-150 Hz, 5 g in each X, Y and Z directions
Ambient temperature	-20 ... 60 °C (-4 ... 140 °F)
Storage temperature	-20 ... 75 °C (-4 ... 167 °F)
Housing width	33 mm
Housing height	85.6 mm
Housing depth	60.8 mm
Degree of protection	IP67
Connection	5-pin, M12 x 1 connector
Housing material	PC (glass-fiber-reinforced Makrolon)
Optical face material	glass
Mass	200 g

Industrial Applications

1. High-Speed Packaging Line Mark Detection

In automated packaging processes, precise and rapid detection of registration marks on films, foils, or labels is crucial for accurate cutting, sealing, or folding. The DK21-9,5/110/124 sensor's 30 µs response time and 9.5 mm detection range ensure reliable mark identification even at very high production speeds. Its dynamic Teach-In feature quickly adapts to varying material contrasts.

Problem Solved

Prevents misaligned cuts, incorrect product placement, and production downtime caused by slow or inaccurate mark detection on fast-moving packaging materials.

Packaging automationregistration markhigh-speed detectiondynamic Teach-In30 µs response timelabel placement

2. Color-Coded Component Sorting in Assembly

For assembly lines requiring the identification and sorting of components based on color-coded marks or subtle print variations, this sensor's RGB light source and advanced contrast detection capabilities are ideal. Its robust IP67 housing and wide operating temperature range (-20 to 60 °C) allow for reliable operation in demanding industrial environments.

Problem Solved

Ensures correct component selection and sorting, reducing errors in assembly, improving quality control, and automating processes that rely on visual color differentiation.

Automated sortingcolor mark detectionquality controlassembly lineIP67 protectionRGB light source

3. Print Quality Inspection in Material Processing

The DK21-9,5/110/124 is suitable for real-time inspection of print quality and integrity on various web-based materials, such as textiles, paper, or films. Its ability to detect contrast differences with green, red, and blue emitters, combined with the 90° exchangeable optical system, offers flexibility in setup to identify defects like smudges, missing print, or registration errors.

Problem Solved

Minimizes material waste and rework by early detection of print defects, ensuring consistent product quality and adherence to aesthetic standards in printing and material conversion industries.

Web inspectionprint defect detectionquality assurancecontrast sensingmaterial processing90° optical system