EC: AZM300 Interlock Switch

Safety - Machine safety: The AZM300 is a solenoid locking keyed interlock switch with integrated RFID based electronic safety sensor for machine guarding applications with washdown or hygienic requirements. This is a Control Engineering 2014 Engineers’ Choice award winner.

By Control Engineering October 17, 2013

The AZM300 is a unique combination of solenoid interlock and electronic safety sensor.

One look at the AZM300 and one cannot help but notice the distinctive external cross-shaped cam. This design allows the AZM300 to accept the actuator from any of three sides, providing mounting flexibility for either left- or right-hinged doors, or sliding guards. The solenoid locking force of 1,000 N keeps the guard door securely locked until dangerous conditions, which may exist even after removal of power, have abated. The AZM300 also offers adjustable latching which provides a holding force of 5 or 11 lbs. The AZM300 actuator includes a dampener pad so that the switch can be used as a door stop for small to medium sized guard doors.

The AZM300 also has an integrated RFID sensor to detect the target actuator and indicate a closed guard. This non-contact operating principle offers the option of individual coding, allowing a specific target actuator to be taught in during the first start-up. The I2 version allows the teach-in process to be repeated, allowing replacement of a lost or damaged actuator.

This electronic safety sensor has diagnostic advantages: Red, yellow, and green LEDs indicate various errors, misalignment and door open/closed signaling. For more advanced indication the AZM300 is also available with serial diagnostics to connect to various commercial PLCs. With continuous internal function tests and monitoring of the safety outputs, the AZM300 can be used in the highest level of machine safety circuits, PLe to ISO13849-1 and SIL 3 to IEC61508. They can be wired in series without detriment to safety levels.

The AZM300 housing is made of ECOLAB approved materials and is sealed to IP69K standards—a viable solution for use in hygienic or outdoor environments where high temperature and high pressure wash downs are typical.

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