Overview
The Cutler Hammer E51DC1 is a photoelectric thru-beam receiver head engineered for long-range object detection in industrial automation and material handling systems. Part of Eaton’s E51 Series, this sensor combines proven limit switch-style housing with modular, plug-in design for rapid integration and maintenance. The receiver operates as the detector component in a thru-beam pair, working in conjunction with a matching transmitter to sense objects passing between them across distances up to 400 feet.
Key Features
- Photoelectric thru-beam receiver configuration for long-range detection
- Modular, plug-in design reduces inventory and simplifies maintenance
- Rugged construction ideal for harsh industrial environments
- Viton gaskets ensure positive seal and high chemical resistance
- UL Listed and CSA Certified for safety-critical applications
- Right-angle mounting orientation for flexible system layouts
- Head-only component designed to work with E51 Series bodies and receptacles
Technical Specifications
- Sensor Type: Photoelectric Thru-Beam Detector (Receiver Head)
- Detection Range: Up to 400 feet (thru-beam)
- Sensing Method: Photoelectric (infrared light source)
- Housing Material: Die-cast or plastic enclosure options
- Mounting Style: Right-angle, limit switch-style
- Dimensions: 1.84 in (L) × 1.86 in (H)
- Series: E51 Modular Sensor
- Approvals: UL Listed, CSA Certified
- Operating Temperature Range: -13 to 158 °F
- IP Rating: IP67 (dust and water resistant)
- NEMA Enclosure Rating: 3, 3S, 4, 4X, 6, 6P, 12, 13
Typical Applications
- Conveyor belt object detection and counting
- Assembly line break-beam safety interlocks
- Packaging and material handling systems
- Automated production line monitoring
- Long-range presence detection on high-speed lines
- Warehouse automation and logistics equipment
Compatibility & Replacements
Compatible With
- Eaton Cutler-Hammer E51 Series sensor bodies (E51SAL, E51SAE, E51SA4)
- E51 Series receptacles and mounting hardware
- E51 thru-beam transmitter heads (paired operation)
- Systems requiring UL/CSA-certified photoelectric sensors
- Standard 24 VDC and AC/DC industrial control circuits
Replaces / Drop-In Replacement For
- Earlier Cutler-Hammer E51DC photoelectric receiver variants
- Legacy thru-beam sensor heads requiring 400 ft range capability
- Verify exact compatibility with your system integrator before ordering.
Works With
- E51 Series modular sensor platform (heads, bodies, receptacles)
- Screw terminal and mini-connector wiring options
- Programmable N.O. or N.C. output selector switch configuration
- Standard industrial PLC and automation controller inputs
- 24 VDC sensor supply circuits and 20–264 VAC/VDC body options



