Tag: Machine safety

ST-G RFID Sensors with Multi-tag Ability for Industrial Process Control and Safety Applications

Posted on by Rick Morgan

RFID or Radio Frequency Identification uses a digitally encoded tag with information that can be read and captured by a reader using radio waves. A basic RFID system consists of the tag, and an RFID reader. Typically, an RFID tag transmits digital information to an RFID reader within close proximity, which then converts that information into usable data for interpretation and a system response from another piece of equipment. RFID has found multiple uses within industry, including process control and the increasing the safety of machine guarding.

Pizzato are a well-known manufacturer of process control equipment including a broad range of machine access and safety control devices including Safety Hinges, Safety Modules and Limit Switches.

RFID Sensors – Positional Accuracy

The Pizzato’s ST-G RFID sensors extend all the technology used in their traditional ST-D series sensors, and do that in an even more compact housing.  The RFID technology within provides each actuator with different coding, making it impossible to tamper with a device by using another actuator of the same series. Ultimately, this means millions of different coding options are possible for the actuators, classifying them as high-level coded actuators according to EN ISO 14119.

Versatile, these RFID sensors are suitable for a host of process control applications and the clever housing design allows the same sensor to be used on both left and right-hand safety doors by simply rotating the sensor onto itself. The industry standard 22 mm fixing pattern and compact external dimensions means traditional magnetic sensors can be easily replaced with these more sophisticated RFID Sensors, providing maximum reliability and safety. The robust monolithic housing allows the ST-G RFID Sensors to be used in even the most aggressive industrial environments and the signalling LEDs providing immediate diagnostics of the input and output operating states.

ST-G RFID Sensors and Actuators

Within this range of industrial sensors is an extended temperature version that is certified by ECOLAB, this ensures that these sensors are ideal for machines used in the food and pharmaceutical industry. Constructed with redundant electronics means that the maximum PL e and SIL 3 safety levels can be obtained via the use of a single device on a guard, avoiding expensive wiring and speeding up installation.

ST-G RFID Sensors and Actuators

Multitag Programming

What sets the ST-G series of RFID sensors apart from the competition is an exceptional feature which Pizzato has called Multitag. Multitag is the ability of the sensor to recognise 2 or more actuators in a processing environment. The internal firmware can be factory programmed, memorising up to 16 actuators and associating a different device behaviour to each once the actuator has acknowledged the sensor. This ability allows the user to activate or deactivate the sensor outputs and send information regarding which actuator is in front of the sensor via an O3 signalling output. This signal can be sent to a PLC and processed.

ST-G RFID Sensors and Actuators

This Multitag function is ideal for machines and industrial processes with several workstations that require various operating modes based upon the recognition between different actuators and the sensor – such as during the change-over of machine parts, robot positioning during manufacturing, industrial process rotary tables control and so on.

For safety gate applications the combination of a sensor and 2 actuators can fully monitor safety guard opening and closing by acknowledging when the guard is fully open and again, fully closed, eliminating the uncertainties caused by incomplete guard positioning and ultimately increasing intrinsic safety.

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ST-G RFID Sensor Features

  • Pizzato Multitag programming system, up to 16 actuators
  • Symmetrical easy-to-mount housing
  • 22 mm standard mount hole spacing
  • M12 fixed connector and prewired M12 cable options
  • Compatible with all ST series actuators
  • Process Control and Safety Gate applications
  • Digitally coded actuators
  • Connect as many as 32 sensors in series
  • Actuated from multiple directions
  • IP67 and IP69K protection versions
  • M12 plastic or stainless-steel connector versions
  • Multicolour signalling LED, visible from both sides
  • Approvals CE, cULus, TUV, EAC

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Sirius Act ID Key-Operated Switch Starter Kits!

Posted on by Rick Morgan

Utilised in applications the world over, the electronic ID key-operated switches from the Siemens SIRIUS ACT family of commanding and signalling devices has proven its durability and flexibility compared to conventional solutions over-and-over again.

Customisation Abilities

These high-spec switches feature customisation abilities that allow the user to set authorisation for machine access, represented by 4 separate and individually coloured keys. A built-in RFID chip makes the keys uniquely identifiable ensuring they are used correctly and there is also an optional white key that can be configured to the customers specifications.

If the SIRIUS ACT ID Key is lost the systems remain secure as the key can be blocked and replaced. Individual access levels act as a time stamp to see who has used the HMI, and when a key has been inserted on the PLC side via a monitored output. With two different Starter Kit versions available this allows customers to choose the option that best suits their individual needs.

SIRIUS ACT ID Operated Key Features

  • Individual authorisation management for groups and individuals
  • Unambiguous identification of users
  • Increase plant safety
  • Highly flexible authorisation assignment

Take a look at the variety of ID key-operated switches available and see for yourself how the Starter Kits work.

Siemens SIRIUS ACT ID Key-Operated switch kit

Choice of pre-programmed and freely programmable options for the perfect application solution.

The two Starter Kits contain everything you need to get started:

  • SIRIUS ACT components, ID key operated switch including ID key
  • Label holder with 4 labels
  • Partially insulated screwdriver
  • IO-Link electronic module (pre-programmed or freely programmable)

 

SIRIUS ACT Starter Kit Advantages:

  • Individual authorisation management for groups or individuals
  • Unambiguous identification of users
  • Increased plant safety
  • IP65 protection rating
  • Different coloured RFID keys for each authorisation level
  • Unrestricted selection and combination of authorisation levels, freely programmable for individual special locks via IO-Link
  • Easy integration into plant via TIA Portal (Port Configuration Tool)
  • Highly flexible authorisation assignment

Siemens SIRIUS ACT ID Key-Operated switches

SIRIUS ACT ID Key-operated Switch Starter Kit 1 – 3SU1900-0XD10-0AA0

  • ID Key-operated switch with pre-programmed IO-Link Electronic Module
  • IO-Link module with four pre-programmed authorisation levels
  • Coloured keys: Authorisation levels encoded at the factory
  • White key: Authorisation levels 1–4 freely programmable via IO-Link (individual special lock)
  • Simple disabling if keys for special locks are lost
  • Easy plant integration via TIA Portal (Port Configuration Tool)

 

SIRIUS ACT ID Key-operated Switch Starter Kit 2 – 3SU1900-0XE10-0AA0

  • ID Key-operated switch with freely programmed IO-Link Electronic Module
  • Fulfilment of customer-specific application requirements, the four LEDs on the actuating element can be encoded as required

IO-Link is used to transmit the following signals:

  • Impulse rotate left
  • Impulse rotate right
  • ID key inserted
  • ID number

 

With the ability to reduce the use of personalised passwords and the issues caused by their loss and maintenance and to improve device control and security it is easy to see how the SIRUIS ACT ID Key products are the ideal solution.

Kempston Controls, as a Siemens supplier partner, has access to the entire SIRIUS ACT ID Key range, call us on +44 (0) 1933 411411 or email sales on sales@kempstoncontrols.co.uk or use the enquiry from below to discuss your requirements today.

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Safety Door Switches with Highly Visible Indicators – The Panasonic SG-P Series

Posted on by Rick Morgan

Over the years within your typical industrial production installation staff and processing machines have traditionally worked separately.  Today, with the growth of smart factories and people and machines working in unison the equipment’s ability to recognise interaction with their human counterparts becomes ever more apparent.

 

process line

Switches and actuators that can disable safety guards and doors are still being used at production facilities, which has proven to be one of the contributing factors in causing serious workplace accidents. However, there was another problem. Machines could not be operated immediately when using switches with small indicators because it took time to check the open/closed status of the doors of the entire production installation.

safety door switches

To try and solve this problem the engineers at Panasonic developed the SG-P Series Safety Door Switches. These durable safety switches enable operators and engineers to view the open/closed state of safety gates, guards of an entire production installation at-a-glance. These clever safety switches incorporate a switch unit and a paired actuator. During operating the switches only detect their matching actuator, this prevents the intentional disabling of the safety interlock and increases the safety of workers during operation and servicing. Other advantages include reducing machine downtime and improving productivity and through-put.

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Prevention of the disabling of interlocks

During the maintenance of industrial production installations, intentionally disabling interlocks when opening equipment doors can be a major cause of accidents in the workplace, such as when another user operates the machine without noticing someone is still inside. The SG-P safety door switches prevent intentional disabling by utilising RFID that detects only the actuator that has been paired with the safety door switch.

safety door switches

Large and bright indicators show the open/closed state of the safety doors

These safety door switches are equipped with a bright and highly visible indicator, despite their small stature. Open safety doors and guards display a bright red light, other safety doors linked to the open doors are identified with green flashing lights to show that there is an unsafe status.

safety door switch, illuminated version

 

 

Traditional switches with a small indicator light are not easy to see when mounted on the inside of safety doors, making it hard for staff to identify which doors are open. Overcoming this problem, the Panasonic SG-P visible type features an actuator and switch that are both illuminated, while the switch body of the compact version illuminates on both sides, the actuator has no lighting. This highly visible status identification allows operators to ascertain the switch status and rapidly identify which doors are open, improving safety, reducing machine downtime and increasing through-put.

 

 

Panasonic SG-P Series Safety Door Switch Features

  • Power supply voltage: 24 V DC
  • Control output: PNP/NPN Transistor open collector 2 outputs
  • IP65 protection rating
  • Dimensions:
    Compact type: Switch W88×H15×D25 mm, Actuator W56×H15×D13 mm
    Visible type: Switch W88×H15×D25 mm, Actuator W52×H15×D32 mm
  • Applications – safety guards, maintenance access doors, sliding doors, access panels

safety door switches

Parent-child structure saves wiring, up to 30 units to be connected in series

Up to 29 sub switches (child devices), can be connected to one safety switch which functions as the parent allowing up to 30 units to be connected in unison. Only the parent device provides an output which eliminates the need for wiring of the linked child devices, saving installation time, equipment

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If you are looking for the ideal visible safety door switch solution look no further than the Panasonic SG-P series which you can purchase today from Kempston Controls. Speak to our expert sales and technical teams on +44 (0) 1933 411 411, click the Enquire Now button fill and out the form below or email sales@kemsptoncontrols.co.uk to discuss your installations requirements.

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S15L From Turck Banner

The S15L Series: Bright & Versatile In-Line Sensor Status Indicators

Posted on by Joe Shipton

As industrial automation applications continue to grow and become more technically advanced, the threat of unplanned downtime is just as relevant today as it was 10 years ago. In 2017, the Vanson Bourne Research Study found that roughly 82% of companies experienced unplanned downtime in the 3 years prior to the report. The cost of this downtime was estimated to be close to £1.5million ($2,000,000).

In the same report, it was found that 70% of companies lack complete awareness of when equipment is due for maintenance or upgrade. That’s where Banner’s S15L Series of in-line sensor indicators come in.

15 mm in diameter, the S15L series is equipped with a two-colour LED indicator light that can be retrospectively connected to a power source and a sensor to indicate power and output status. Its in-line connection, over-moulded design and bright LEDs create a simple and cost-effective solution that can be applied to not only Banner sensors, but to most 4- or 5-pin devices with an output.
S15L From Turck Banner

S15L – Quick Look:

The S15L Series In-Line Sensor Status Indicator is the ideal accessory for industries that require highly visible indication, such as automotive, material handling, and general assembly.

  • Bright 360° indication to mimic sensor power and output status
  • Two colours – green for power and yellow for sensor output active status
  • Works with most 4 and 5 pin devices
  • Rugged over-moulded design meets IEC IP66, IEC IP67, and IEC IP68
  • Connected directly to a sensor or anywhere in-line for easy visual indication
  • Models available with PNP and NPN inputs

Interested? Get a Quote!

S15L – Key Benefits:

360° Visibility:

  • The S15L Series can be mounted on a range of sensors for 360 degree-visibility of power and status.
  • Its highly visible body allows workers to identify and troubleshoot problems faster.

Easily Accessible:

  • The S15L Series can be mounted anywhere to improve accessibility and ease of use.
  • The in-line connection allows for simple problem identification.

Rapid Integration:

  • Ideal for new or existing applications.
  • Works with not only Banner sensors, actuators, and touch buttons, but also a wide variety of 4 and 5 pin devices.
  • It can be connected directly to the quick disconnect of most sensors, so no additional hardware is necessary.

Reliable & Rugged:

  • Regardless of the application, its over-moulded design is reliable and rugged, ideal for harsh industrial environments.

Green & Yellow:

  • With 4 LEDs, the S15L produces two colours: green and yellow.
  • The LEDs can be used to identify power and output status.
S15L From Turck Banner

The S15L Series In-Line Sensor Status Indicator is the ideal attachment for applications that require highly visible indication in industries such as automotive, material handling, and general assembly. Banner’s bright indicator improves safety, productivity, and quality in a wide variety of applications.

Interested? Get a Quote!

Kempston Controls, as Turck Banner suppliers, are the people to come to when you need to discuss your S15L Series In-Line Sensor Status Indicator needs. Call us on +44 (0) 1933 411 411 or email our dedicated sales team at sales@kempstoncontrols.co.uk today and talk to us about your requirements.

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Short Circuits, Shocks and Overloads? Not a Problem with a CBR!

Posted on by Rick Morgan

Dangerous short-circuits and overloads can occur at any time within an electrical system and for a variety of reasons. Therefore, it makes perfect sense that your installations are as safe as possible for everyone using them and for every device involved. Ensuring your electrical system and installations are kept as safe as possible from overloads and short circuits relies upon on a variety of devices including RCDs, MCCBs, Circuit Breakers and many others.

Space Saving Solution

To help you save valuable space and to protect your valuable installations and the people using them the busy team from Terasaki have created the TemBreak 2 CBR – Circuit Breaker with Integral Residual Current Protection range. This clever series of devices has been designed to provide protection against electric shock, overloads and short circuits giving the user three types of protection.

Circuit breakers with integral residual current protection (CBRs) are designed to protect against the hazards presented by earth leakage. Before the TemBreak 2 CBR was designed CBRs were only available as combined units, meaning that the circuit breaker was mechanically and electrically coupled to an earth leakage module.

Integral Earth Leakage

The Terasaki 2 CBR differs from this as the earth leakage function becomes an integrated feature of the device and is physically based on their popular TemBreak 2 MCCB range. The CBR is the first integral ELCB which complies with IEC 60947.2, Annex B, incorporating residual current protection. Switchboard manufacturers can use standard MCCB assemblies for dimensions and mounting, and no ampere de-rating is necessary. Reduced electrical and mechanical connection complexity ensures a higher reliability and lifespan, while the common dimensions of the unit means it is easy to replace the standard Terasaki range of MCCBs with the CBR units.

Short Circuits protection TemBreak 2 CBR

This capable CBR range features advantages such as adjustable residual current tripping thresholds, adjustable time delay, adjustable overload protection and a built in trip indicator and separate test button. Space saving, the TemBreak2 CBR has the same physical dimensions and mountings as the popular Tembreak 2 MCCB and eliminates the need for an external relay with current transformers and add-on block. Ideal for controlling overloads, short circuits and preventing shocks within numerous industries including the mining industry, temporary site supplies, heavy industry and commercial building use.

TemBreak 2 CBR Features and Specifications

• Number of poles 3 and 4 pole versions
• Nominal current ratings from 20 to 250A depending on the model
• Rated operational voltage 525V
• Voltage presence LED
• Trip Indicator – yellow button pops up to indicate tripping due to residual current
• Type A tripping is ensured for residual sinusoidal AC in the presence of residual pulsating DC
• Test button – press to test residual current detection and tripping system
• Adjustable time delay for residual circuit protection includes Zero and non-trip (NT)
• Adjustable residual current tripping thresholds 30mA, 100mA, 300mA, 500mA, 1000mA, 3000mA
• Dielectric test device built in
• Adjustable overload protection Ir can be set between 63% & 100% of In
• Operating cycles 30,000

A range of accessory add-ons to enhance the performance of the TemBreak2 CBR range includes:

• Residual current monitor and remote trip module
• Auxiliary switch and alarm switch
• Terminals bars
• Cable clamps
• Door mounted handle
• Breaker mounted handle
• Motor operator terminal covers for front connection
• Terminal covers for cable clamps
• Toggle lock

Kempston Controls are the people to talk to if you are looking for a Terasaki Circuit Breaker solution. With access to Tersaki’s entire product portfolio we can get you the products you need, when you need them and at the best possible price. Give our hard-working sales team a call on +44 (0) 1933 411411 or email sales@kempstoncontrols.co.uk to discuss your Circuit Breaker requirements.

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LCP & LCS Range of Control Units from Pepperl+Fuchs

Control Units from Pepperl+Fuchs: LCP & LCS Range

Posted on by Joe Shipton

Designed to ensure the smooth operation and monitoring of electrical circuits and machinery in hazardous environments; the LCP and LCS series are versatile control units equipped with several operators.

Pepperl+Fuchs’ LCP and LCS range can provide control units with different functions such as pushbuttons, LED indicators, control switches, potentiometers, and ammeters.

Made from durable glass fibre reinforced polyester (LCP range) or hygienic electropolished stainless steel (LCS range), Pepperl+Fuchs’ portfolio of control units is ideal for a wide range of harsh environments.

LCP Range – Glass Fibre Reinforced Polyester Control Units

The LCP series of control units are highly versatile and are available as standard off-the-shelf configurations from stock on short notice. What’s more, the flexible design accommodates up to four operators in one enclosure to meet any application.

Manufactured from glass fibre reinforced polyester, the LCP range and its high-quality components and accessories are durable and perfect for harsh environments.

Features:

  • Glass fibre reinforced polyester (GRP) enclosures
  • Installation in Zone 1, Zone 2, Zone 21 and Zone 22
  • Ex de, Ex ib and Ex tb certified
  • Up to 4 operators per enclosure
  • Customisable configuration of operators, cable entry quantities, & cable gland types
  • Wide range of labels and accessories available
  • Two enclosure size options
  • IP66 rated

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LCS Range – Stainless Steel Control Units

Like the LCP series, the LCS range of control units is versatile and available in standard off-the-shelf configurations. Moreover, the LCP series is customisable for specific applications with a wide variety of operators, labels, cable glands, and accessories available.

Manufactured using electropolished stainless steel; the LCS series provide excellent corrosion resistance and designed to meet the strict hygiene requirements in pharmaceutical and food processing applications. The durable materials and high-quality components mean the LCS range is ideal for use in harsh environments.

Features:

  • Stainless Steel enclosure
  • Ideal for hygienic applications
  • Installation in Zone 1, Zone 2, Zone 21 and Zone 22
  • Ex de, Ex ib and Ex tb certified
  • Up to 4 operators per enclosure
  • Customisable configuration of operators, cable entry quantities and cable gland types as per specification
  • Wide range of labels and accessories available
  • Three enclosure size options
  • IP66 Rated

View the Range

When it comes to finding the ideal Control Unit for your application, look no further than Kempston Controls. As a supplier partner for Pepperl+Fuchs, we have access to their entire product range at the best possible prices. And remember, if you can’t find the product you need on our website, call one of our sales team on +44 (0) 1933 411411 or email sales@kempstoncontrols.co.uk to discuss your requirements.

Take a look at our new ATEX Page here: kempstoncontrols.co.uk/atex-hazardous-areas

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