Guide To Suppliers

For safety when working with robot assistants, the BMW Group works together with Pilz who carry out the conformity assessment including final CE marking.

The new PSENopt Advanced light beam devices from Pilz allow the highest flexibility thanks to their multi-functionality: muting or blanking and cascading are implemented within the same light beam device.

At some point in the future the functional safety standards EN ISO 13849 (with its Performance Levels, PL) and EN 62061 (with its Safety Integrity Levels, SIL) will merge; a joint technical committee ISO/TC 199 - IEC/TC 44 is currently working on this merger. 

There are doubtless many machines in the UK fitted with multiple guards that are monitored in one circuit by series connected safety switches with dual channel wiring; does this sound like one of your machines? Can any of these guards be opened simultaneously? Then read on, advises David Collier.

When it comes to safety conformance, David Collier says that machine manufacturers and their end users should consider the benefits of working with an inspection body rather than a notified body.

A safety relay that monitors the safe standstill, overspeed and direction of rotation of a variety of machines is now available from Pilz Automation Technology. The PNOZ s30 speed monitor can be connected to many motor feedback systems which use incremental encoders or proximity sensors to provide a speed signal. A rotary knob with key function (push and turn) and an integrated display enable users to enter their own specific data via an intuitive menu structure.

Steve Farrow charts the rise in sophistication of machinery safety systems over the past 30 years, and illustrates his article with the landmark advances in safety technology achieved by his own company during this period