Machine tool safety systems from a single source

Pilz has been involved in machine tool safety for many years, continually developing new products and systems to suit the evolutions in machine tool technology and machinery safety legislation. Today Pilz operates as a single-source partner for machine tool manufacturers, offering a comprehensive portfolio of safety-related products and systems that enable complete, tailored, state-of-the-art machine tool safety systems to be designed and implemented cost-effectively.

A typical modern machine tool might feature the following Pilz items:

• PNOZmulti 2: configurable control system with motion monitoring functions
• PITmode: operating mode selector switch and access authorisation control
• PSEN: safe sensors for safe guard locking, monitoring tool change, monitoring infeed, etc

Pilz PNOZmulti 2 software-configurable safety control systems can be equipped with optional motion monitoring modules to monitor up to two axes on a machine tool safely and simply in accordance with EN 61800-5-2 Adjustable speed electrical power drive systems. Safety requirements. Functional (BS EN 61800-5-2 in the UK). Using the Mini I/O industrial interface, any common incremental encoder can be connected using drive-specific connection cables. Not only does the use of motion monitoring protect operating and maintenance staff, it also prevents mechanical damage to the machine tool due to excessive movement, for example. The following safety functions can easily be created in the PNOZmulti Configurator:

• Safe Speed Range (SSR)
• Safe Speed Monitoring (SSM)
• Safe Direction (SDI)
• Safe Operating Stop (SOS)

Safe selection of operating mode and access authorisation

Hazardous situations can arise when changing the operating mode - for example, from service mode to automatic mode - due to different access authorisations. When the PITmode operating mode selector switch is employed, operating modes are displayed safely and clearly via LEDs. Moreover, the control system detects which operating mode is set. Manipulation is prevented because the display cannot be adjusted without authorisation. New pictograms specifically for machine tools, as specified in the relevant standard, make it easier to use the operating mode selector switch, even internationally.

Safe sensing on machine tools

Depending on the nature of the machine tool, various fail-safe sensors might be installed. Pilz offers an extensive range that includes the following:

• PSENcode coded safety switches for safe monitoring and differentiation between positions
• PSENhinge manipulation-resistant hinge-mounted switches for monitoring the position of rotatable and hinged guards
• PSENbolt safety bolts
• PSENslock safety gate system for secure monitoring of safety gates combined with non-contact magnetic interlocks
• PSENopt light beam devices for finger, hand and body detection

In addition, Pilz offers the PITestop family of emergency stop devices.

Whatever your requirements for safeguarding machine tools, Pilz offers a broad portfolio of safety-related products and systems from which suitable selections can be made. Furthermore, Pilz has safety engineers who can, if requested, work with customers or on behalf of customers to create a safety concept, develop a safety design, implement the safety system, validate it, and CE mark the machine tool in accordance with the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC.

Follow the links for more information about Pilz PNOZmulti 2 configurable control system, PITmode operating mode selector switch, PSEN safe sensors and safety services.