Multifunction safety light curtains integrate signaling, alignment aid

Schmersal’s SLC440 Series Safety Light Curtains and Safety Light Grids incorporate a full range of functions, highly visible signaling, and an alignment aid in a rugged housing.

The SLC/ SLG 440 series offers numerous functions as standard features:

• fixed blanking

• floating blanking

• fixed blanking with movable edge region

• double reset

• contactor control (EDM)

• automatic mode

• re-start mode

• beam coding

Set up is simplified as selection and configuration of these functions are made via a single push-button and the 7-segment display. After completion, the selections are stored in the system. This user-friendly method does not require separate software or costly set-up devices.

Operating status can be seen from a distance: The end cap of the receiver unit is molded from a semitransparent plastic that is illuminated by LED. It shows green for proper operation and red for a fault. Also, the 7-segment display which was so helpful in set up, now displays error codes and flashing signals to report specific faults and problems.

Installation of the emitter and receiver units is made easier with the integrated alignment aid. This function tests the first and last beams for alignment and displays the results on the 7-segment display. Once both are situated properly, the display can be changed over to show signal strength, to allow for fine tuning the alignment.

Like our other Type 4 safety light curtains, our SLC440 series features a one-piece extruded reinforced housing – this time in a compact 28 mm x 33 mm rectangular profile. This housing profile has proven to be less susceptible to mechanical damage and misalignment from torsion or bending, the company said. 

Safety light curtains SLC 440 are used for the protection of hazardous areas, and are available with resolutions of 14 or 30 mm and protection field heights between 170 and 1770 mm; Also available as safety light grids (SLG 440) with 2, 3, or 4 beams for perimeter guarding. Both series are suited for use in safety circuits up to PLe (EN 13849) or SIL3 (IEC 61508).

www.schmersalusa.com

– Edited by Mark T. Hoske, content manager, CFE Media, Control Engineering and Plant Engineering, mhoske@cfemedia.com.