Posted to News on 23rd May 2007, 16:10
Safety calculator for EN ISO 13849-1 and EN IEC 62061
Pilz is releasing PAScal v1.5.0, a new version of its software for performing the calculations necessary when designing safety-related control systems to either EN ISO 13849-1 or EN 62061 (IEC 62061). With improved libraries for storing safety-related characteristic data for all Pilz products, PAScal v1.5.0 is said to be even more practice-oriented. [Read the MachineBuilding.net review of PAScal v1.2.3 - Ed.]
PAScal 1.5.0 also enables users to import libraries from other manufacturers in the format used by Sistema, which is a similar software tool produced by the IFA (Institute for Occupational Safety and Health of the German Social Accident Insurance), though Sistema can only be used with ISO 13849-1. PAScal can therefore be applied quickly and simply, even when safety devices are purchased from different manufacturers. Libraries in PAScal can also be updated automatically through the Internet.
To provide optimum support to machine designers, the internal data structure of PAScal has also been modified. Several data records for different operating modes can be entered for each component, so it is no longer necessary to divide them over different library entries. Data records can be based on a particular version, so it is possible to enter components whose performance data varies during the course of their lifecycle. And components with general fault exclusion can still be incorporated, purely for documentation purposes. Finally it is also possible to choose whether to store components with the necessary values for EN ISO 13849-1 or EN/IEC 62061.
Intuitive interface
Various features and functions support speedy work practices. Operation of PAScal is largely graphical and, therefore, intuitive. An automatic check guarantees that any changes to library entries or new libraries are taken into account, even on completed projects. Reports are described as being compact and clear. PAScal can be operated in a choice of six languages, right down to the libraries, and support is always available directly from Pilz.
The PAScal Safety Calculator calculates the PL (Performance Level) or SIL (Safety Integrity Level) that safety functions on plant and machinery can achieve, depending on the components that are specified. Furthermore, the result is verified with the required PL from EN ISO 13849 or SIL from EN/IEC 62061. The results are displayed graphically, so it is easy to see how well the required safety level can be achieved at which points and with which components, or where improvements may be necessary.
Follow the link for more information about PAScal v1.5.0 and to download a demo version.
