Harmonising Productivity with Machine Safety

摘要

Safety gates, protective covers and machine guards prevent hazards associated with moving parts. However, the correct functioning of a safeguard can only be guaranteed by using the appropriate sensor technology. Alex Bryce, Sales Manager at Pilz Automation Technology, considers the sensor systems currently available and the selection criteria that designers should consider. Designers of plant and machinery are normally responsible for implementing the safety-related requirements and for selecting the components used for safe monitoring. However, designers are spoilt for choice, which makes choosing the most appropriate safe sensor or actuator/sensor combination a difficult task.