New plug-in PROFIsafe module for ABB variable-speed drives

Machine builders must ensure applications can be controlled safely and stopped quickly if anything goes wrong. To meet demanding safety requirements, engineers have traditionally designed and installed safety functions using external (hardwired) devices. This usually requires additional installation space as well as being costly and time consuming. These challenges can now be overcome by using drive-based safety systems.

The new functionality enables safe machine control and seamless safety communications between the drive and the programmable logic controller (PLC) in a wide range of machines from conveyors to grinders. This is enabled through the PROFIsafe over the PROFINET IO communication protocol.

Joonas Saarela, product manager for the PROFIsafe safety functions module, ABB Drives says: "With this new plug-in module it is possible to provide control, ensure safety and enable PC tool communication to the drive through one Ethernet cable, which simplifies installation and commissioning. The module simplifies commissioning significantly because it requires no additional safety configuration in the drive and moreover reduces the need for training."

The FSPS-21 module is TV Nord-certified and is compatible with ABB ACS380 machinery drives, ACS580 general purpose drives and ACS880 industrial drives. The module offers Safe Torque Off (STO) and Safe Stop 1-time controlled (SS1-t) safety functions. It achieves the highest safety levels in machinery safety: SIL 3 / PL e and is, therefore, suitable for even the most demanding applications. It simplifies the design and verification of the safety system.

For more information about the new plug-in PROFIsafe module (FSPS-21) please visit www.abb.co.uk.