LOW-COST, SINGLE-BEAM LIGHT BARRIERS

Pilz Automation Safety LLC is launching new low-cost, single-beam light barriers with either an infrared beam or – for applications where extremely rapid response or a long sensing range is required – a laser beam. Considerably more cost-effective than safety light curtains for body detection, the PSEN op2S/4S light barriers are suitable for use in machinery safety applications conforming to the requirements of BS EN 954-1, Category 2, 3 or 4, and compliant and approved in accordance with EN61496-1 and IEC61496-2.

"The sensors are quick and simple to install thanks to their compact M22 threaded bodies that are sealed to IP67," says Pilz Engineer Mike Poynter. "Wiring is completed via M12 connectors on the transmitter and receiver." Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are incorporated within each unit to assist with commissioning and troubleshooting. Diagnostics are further improved by linking the sensors to either a Pilz PNOZmulti modular safety controller or a Pilz Programmable Safety System (PSS)."It costs less to purchases three of the single-beam sensors and a PNOZ multi safety controller than to buy a standard three-beam safety light curtain for body detection," Poynter points out.

The infrared units have a maximum operating range of 8 m and a response time of 1.5 ms, while the laser version has an extended range of 40 m and a response time of just 320 ms. The PSEN op2S/4S is part of Pilz’s expansion of its PSENopt family of safety light curtains, making it one of the most comprehensive product lines in the industry. The Pilz PSENopt family now meets virtually every requirement: Type 2 and Type 4 light curtains for finger, hand or body detection; cost-effective single-beam light barriers; light curtains with muting and fixed/floating blanking; cascading light curtains; and light curtains for use with SafetyBUS p. "When you factor in the competitive prices and the fact that the company has the application expertise to advise customers on how best to use safety light curtains, Pilz should be the first call customers make when considering installing safety light curtains on new machinery or older machines for reasons of safety or productivity," Poynter says. Visit the Pilz website www.pilzusa.com and use the web code 1279 for more information on the PSEN op2S/4S. Pilz Automation Safety LLC