Posted to News on 9th Jun 2020, 11:28
Herga IR switch aids operator safety
Herga's 6461 series IR switch is designed to offer a simple and effective aid to barrier protection. Simple to operate and easily installed either in new equipment or as a retrofitted replacement, the company states that as high hygiene becomes more important, this infrared non-contact switch provides a safe alternative to manual switches for dispensing and vending equipment. Herga has manufactured this product for several years so the switches are tried and tested with high-reliability, have a sensing range from 75 to 100mm, and are available in a choice of materials and switching options.
Designers can choose between open collector or transistor output versions, each with a low current consumption of less than 3mA. The switches can be configured for momentary, latching or timer delay switching. An electrical rating of up to 2A at 30V AC or DC (Nominal 12V to 24V) allows an output capable of switching a suitable relay, solenoid or direct connection to the controlled equipment. The IR sensor element is set behind a protective acrylic lens with a light source that is modulated to reduce nuisance operation due to ambient light. With an overall IP67 rating, the sensor is epoxy encapsulated in a 33mm diameter threaded housing and is available in a choice of ABS or stainless steel complete with locking nut for flexible use in either normal or vandal-resistant installations. A fully sealed front escutcheon plate, also in a choice of stainless steel or ABS with a chrome plated finish, allows the entire switch to be washed down with suitable cleaning fluids for complete hygiene protection. The declared temperature operating range is from -5degC to +40degC.
The 6461 switch sensitivity allows operation without any actual contact - with infrared detection of objects such as a finger or a hand at a distance of approximately 70mm. If required, special versions can be adapted to detect large objects such as a person or other parts of the body from distances up to 500mm. This flexibility allows far-reaching dispensing and vending tasks on high-hygiene equipment for water, soap and cleansing gels as well as for non-contact actuation of dryers, door openers and other devices. Herga's product range also includes other contacting infrared as well as Bluetooth and USB switching components. Also available are medically approved and industrial grade single or 1/2 multi-pedal foot and hand controlled switches based on electrical, electronic, and pneumatic technologies in standard and user-customised designs.
For more information about Herga's 6461 series IR switch, visit www.herga.com.
