Posted to News on 10th Mar 2007, 00:00
Non-stop safety in continuous processes
Schmersal's innovative non-contact CSS 180 Safety Sensor and matching coded CST 180 Actuator are designed to monitor the closed position of hinged, sliding or removable guards.
When used in continuous processes the CSS 180 allows machines to continue running if non-critical faults occur, whilst issuing a warning to the machine's control system. This facility enables vital processes to remain operational while necessary adjustments are made. However, if a guard door is opened the CSS 180 immediately stops the machine. The sensor meets Control Category 4 standards and can be wired in series, allowing a 'daisy chain' up to 200m long to be created without affecting the Control Category 4 status.
The safety sensor and actuator function by the sensor producing a signal to the actuator at a set resonant frequency as it approaches. The sensor then reads back the actuator's oscillation, evaluates the frequency and its own distance to the actuator, and interprets the identification of the actuator as a closed guard. The safety outputs are then enabled.
