How to Check for Misaligned or Failed Proximity Switch

Use general safety precautions for troubleshooting. If a component must be replaced, perform the proper power down procedures. Use standard electrical safety procedures for troubleshooting hot circuits for voltage tests. Beware of pinch points on the machine.

PROCEDURE:
  1. Locate the proximity switch in question.
  2. The LED on the proximity switch must be on if the object to be sensed is present at the switch. The proximity switch is detecting the object and operating normally if the switch LED is "on". If the LED is off, check the proximity switch plug to see if it is tightly connected. If the proximity switch LED is on and the object to be sensed is not near it, make sure the end of the switch is not touching a metal surface and that it's clean.
  3. If neither light is on and the object is not sensed by the proximity switch, use a metallic object to check the sensing of the switch. Do this by placing a metallic object such as a tip of a screwdriver no more than 3/16" [5 mm] away from the proximity switch. This should cause the LED to turn on. If the LED does turn on, make sure the sensing part is in the correct location and reposition the proximity switch so the sensing part can make the proximity switch.
  4. To adjust the proximity sensor, remove the sensor wire attached to the proximity switch. Loosen the jam nut on the proximity switch. Turn the proximity switch so that the sensing face of the switch moves closer to the object it senses. Reconnect the sensor wire (This should cause the LED to light).

    Never place LockTite on the jam nuts to prevent them from loosening. Proximity switches do fail over time and having LockTite on the jam nuts will make removal extremely difficult and time consuming.
  5. With the proximity switch repositioned, test the station to check the new position. If the sensing object is actuating but the light is not on, then the proximity switch is functional but the LED is burned out. Check all connections at the proximity switch and Main Electrical Panel. If all connections are good then replace the proximity switch.
  6. If the proximity switch still does not work, remove it and replace it with a new one.
  7. If the fault still exists, check the corresponding input LED in the Main Electrical Cabinet.

    If the input is ON, the LED on the proximity switch may have burned out, but the switch is still operational. If the input is OFF, replace the proximity switch plug with a new one.
  8. If the fault still exists, check the wiring and electrical circuit.