Eaton E51 Series Right Angle P...
IN STOCK (leaves warehouse same day if ordered before 3pm ET)
$1,478.04

Eaton E51 Series Right Angle Photoelectric Sensor, Plastic Enclosure

(No reviews yet) Write a Review

Model: E51CNF3

In Stock (leaves warehouse same day if ordered before 3pm ET)

$1,478.04
Adding to cart… The item has been added
Free Shipping on orders over $199
We price match and offer bulk discounts! Click Add to Quote. It's quick and easy.
✨
Earn points with this purchase! You can redeem points for giftcards, iPads, XBox's and more. View Rewards
Free Keying on all locks

Eaton E51 Series Right Angle Photoelectric Sensor, Plastic Enclosure

The Eaton E51 Series Right Angle Photoelectric Sensor is a modular photoelectric sensor head engineered for reliable object detection in demanding industrial environments. Built with a durable plastic enclosure and screw-terminal connections, this through-beam detector operates in polarized retroreflective mode on a 120 Vac input, delivering a 1.0A solid-state output for dependable switching performance. Rated for NEMA 3, 3S, 4, 4X, 6, 6P, 12, and 13 environments plus IP67, it is well suited for wet, dusty, and harsh-duty applications across commercial and industrial facilities.

Key Features

  • Right Angle Configuration: Modular sensor head design allows flexible mounting in tight machine and panel spaces.
  • Durable Construction: Plastic enclosure provides lightweight, corrosion-resistant housing for the sensor head assembly.
  • Screw Terminal Connection: Simplifies field wiring and termination during installation and maintenance.
  • Photoelectric Sensor Head: Through-beam detector operating in polarized retroreflective mode for accurate, repeatable sensing.
  • Electrical Rating: 120 Vac input voltage with 1.0A solid-state output and a maximum AC current of 1 A for consistent switching.
  • Contact Configuration: L1 switched, NO/NC output for compatibility with a range of control circuits.
  • Environmental Rating: NEMA 3, 3S, 4, 4X, 6, 6P, 12, 13, and IP67 ratings support use in wet, washdown, and harsh-duty locations.
  • Operating Temperature Range: Rated from -13°F to 158°F for stable performance across varying ambient conditions.

Certifications & Compliance

  • UL Listed
  • CE Marked
  • NEMA 3, 3S, 4, 4X, 6, 6P, 12, 13 Rated
  • IP67 Rated

Technical Specifications

  • Warranty: 3 year
  • Department: Electrical
  • Maximum AC current: 1 A
  • Product Width: 1.54 in
  • Product Length/Depth: 1.84 in
  • Product Height: 1.86 in
  • Enclosure Material: Plastic
  • Connection: Screw terminal
  • Sensor Type: Through beam detector
  • Type: Photoelectric Sensor Head
  • Contact Rating: 1.0A Solid State Output
  • Operating Mode: Polarized retroreflective
  • Series: E51
  • Catalog Notes: Assembled sensor with head, sensor body, and receptacle; logic modules must be ordered separately.

Typical Applications

  • Industrial Automation and Machine Control
  • Conveyor and Material Handling Systems
  • Machine Safety and Limit Sensing
  • Wet, Washdown, and Harsh-Duty Environments
  • Panel and Enclosure Sensor Integration
  • Commercial and Industrial Electrical Installations

Why Eaton?

Eaton's E51 Series photoelectric sensors combine a rugged plastic enclosure with broad NEMA and IP67 environmental ratings, making them a dependable choice for demanding sensing applications. Backed by UL Listing, CE Marking, and a 3-year warranty, this modular sensor head delivers the code-compliant, reliable performance professionals expect from Eaton electrical products.

Manufacturer Resources

Product Specs

Operating temperature - min:
-13 °F
Warranty:
3 year
Department:
Electrical
Switch Classification:
Photoelectric
Connection:
Screw terminal
Contact Configuration:
L1 switched, NO/NC
Product Type:
Photoelectric Sensor
Compliances:
CE Marked
Amperage Rating:
1A
Operating Temperature Max:
158 °F
Maximum Ac Current:
1 A
Input Voltage:
120 Vac
Connection Type:
Screw Terminal
Configuration:
Right Angle
Voltage Rating:
120 Vac
Listing:
UL Listed
Series:
E51
Product Group:
Wiring Devices
Product Subgroup:
Switches

Eaton E51CNF3 – Frequently Asked Questions

1) Does the Eaton E51 photoelectric sensor come complete, or do I need to order anything else to make it work?
The E51 assembly ships as a sensor head, sensor body, and receptacle. The logic module is not included and has to be ordered separately, so budget that line into the order or the sensor won't switch anything once it is mounted.
2) Will an E51 photoelectric sensor hold up in a washdown or wet area?
It is rated NEMA 3, 3S, 4, 4X, 6, 6P, 12 and 13 plus IP67, which covers washdown, wet, dusty and corrosive duty. The 4X and IP67 combination is the pair that matters for hose-down food and beverage lines.
3) Is the E51 a through-beam sensor or a reflective one?
Both descriptions apply to how it is sold and used: it is a through beam detector operating in polarized retroreflective mode. Polarized retroreflective means you mount a reflector opposite the sensor rather than running power to a second unit across the conveyor, and the polarizing filter keeps shiny cartons and stretch wrap from false-triggering the beam.
4) What ambient temperatures can this Eaton sensor be installed in?
Operating range runs from -13 F to 158 F. That covers unheated warehouse and cold-dock work at the low end and hot process areas or sun-exposed outdoor mounts at the high end.
5) Do I need normally open or normally closed contacts when specifying the E51?
You don't have to choose between them. The contact configuration is L1 switched, NO/NC, so both output states are available from the same device and the logic module and wiring decide which one your circuit uses.
6) Is the E51 sensor housing metal or plastic?
It depends on which piece you mean, and the ordering options split on it. The E51CNF3 and E51CNP5 are plastic body and head, while the E51CNC1 carries a die cast zinc receptacle. Pick the zinc receptacle where the mount takes knocks or vibration; plastic is the lighter, corrosion-resistant choice for chemical or damp areas.
7) Is the Eaton E51 sensor UL Listed for use in a commercial control panel?
Yes, the E51 photoelectric sensor is UL Listed and CE Marked. For institutional and facility specs that require a listed device on the drawing, that is the line to cite.
8) What kind of wiring termination does the Eaton E51 sensor use?
Screw terminals, not a quick-disconnect cordset. Field wiring lands directly on the device, which suits conduit-and-wire installs but means you break the enclosure seal to service it, so re-torque and reseat the cover properly to keep the IP67 rating.
How fast can I get the Eaton E51CNF3 delivered?
Most orders ship the same day from our distribution partners, with quick delivery throughout the continental U.S. Need it urgently? Contact Us for expedited shipping options.
Can I return it if it doesn’t work for me?
Yes—ZenSupply offers a hassle-free return policy. If the product isn’t the right fit, reach out to our support team for a return authorization or setup a return by following our return instructions.
Does the Eaton E51CNF3 come with a warranty?
Absolutely. The Eaton E51CNF3 is backed by a manufacturer’s warranty. For full warranty terms, check the product documentation or Contact Us.
How do I get technical support or installation help for the Eaton E51CNF3?
You can call, text, or email our expert support team for fast answers. We’re here to help with product selection, installation tips, and troubleshooting. Contact Us
Why buy the Eaton E51CNF3 from ZenSupply?
ZenSupply makes it easy to get the commercial door hardware you need—fast shipping, expert support, and rewards on every order. Our team is always ready to help you choose the right product for your project.