Pilz launches PNOZ s30 safe standstill and speed monitor

In accordance with the new Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC, when a machine drive is brought to a standstill, the operating status must be safely monitored and maintained. The new PNOZ s30 helps machine builders and system integrators to comply with this requirement.

Part of the Pilz PNOZsigma range, the PNOZ s30 can be connected to many motor feedback systems using incremental encoders or proximity sensors to provide a speed signal. A rotary knob with key function (push and turn) and an integrated display enable users to enter data via an intuitive menu structure. These parameters are stored on a chip card. The permanent display informs users about the current speed during machine operation, while the state of the output relay is also indicated.

Alex Bryce, the Sales Manager at Pilz Automation Technology, comments: "In terms of the UK market, the PNOZ s30 is very well suited to industries that operate heavy rotating machinery such as the paper, printing and packaging sectors. Monitoring the overspeed or standstill of large paper reels or web-based printing machines are good examples here. The device is also finding applications in: robotics; woodworking machinery such as band saws and circular saws; steel processing mills; dovetailed interlocking processes such as buffer zones and conveyor systems; kneading, mixing and filling machines in food and beverage processing environments; and in hygiene-critical processes, which would be contaminated by any reverse movement or a change of direction of rotation."

Safety functions

The PNOZ s30 offers a variety of safety functions, including standstill monitoring combined with safe position monitoring at standstill. For example, this might include the monitoring of a position controller or suspended axis. In addition, the device can be used for the safe monitoring of maximum speed in combination with the safe detection of the direction of rotation. The PNOZ s30 can also monitor process-related speeds or movements, combined with the safe direction of rotation.

Any limit values defined by the user can be given a warning threshold. The advantage here is that the user can recognise at an early stage whether an overspeed, for example, might lead to a machine or process shutdown. Resolving an overspeed problem early minimises production downtime and ensures the safety of operators.

The PNOZ s30 includes selectable inputs for incremental encoders and proximity sensors, separate programmable safety-related relay output contacts, auxiliary semiconductor outputs, and restart and safe off position feedback circuit inputs.

Pilz says this device holds all the necessary approvals and the company can provide all the relevant safety-related characteristic data for the PNOZ s30. Performance Level (PL) in accordance with BS EN ISO 13849-1 is PL e; the Safety Integrity Level (SIL) CL claim limit in accordance with BS EN 62061 is SIL 3; and in accordance with BS EN 954-1 the device is Category 3.

For more information about the PNOZ s30, email [email protected] or telephone +44 (0)1536 460766.