Following the successful launch of non-contact guard switches, Pilz Automation Technology has introduced a range of PSENmech tongue-operated mechanical safety interlock guard switches.

These include models with an increased latching force on the actuator to hold the guard closed, solenoid locking to prevent access to an area until the hazard has been eliminated, specially designed actuators to suit mounting close to the hinge line on small guards, plus a number of body styles and other features to simplify installation.

All variants are suitable for use in safety-related control systems meeting the requirements of EN 954-1 Category 2 or 3 (or 4, if two switches are used in a redundant configuration).

Range of products 

More than 20 different products make up the complete range, so customers can almost certainly find at least one to suit every application.

For applications where an interlocked switch is required, the PSEN me1 and PSEN me1.1 models feature a slimline IP67 housing with a solenoid-operated lock to give a 1500N holding force; some versions use a spring to lock the actuator when it is inserted, while others require the switch to be energised.

A universal actuator can enter from eight different directions and there is an option to use a radius actuator for mounting the switch just 150mm from a hinge line. All variants have two safety contacts; PSEN me1 models operate on 24V AC/DC while the PSEN me1.1 operates with any voltage (ie 24V DC or 24/110/230V AC).

The compact, cost-effective PSEN me2 models all have one normally-closed safety contact and can be used with either the three-way coded standard actuator or a radius actuator mounted 50mm from a hinge line - with entry from any of four directions. Two out of the three PSEN me2 models have a 10N holding force, while the third has an increased holding force of 100N that can eliminate the need for separate door catches. Three cable gland entry points are provided.

Choice of holding force

A choice of holding force is also offered for the PSEN me3 range, and these products benefit from either two or three safety contacts. The options are: one normally-open and one normally-closed; two normally-closed; or two normally-closed and one normally-open. Again, customers can choose either the three-way coded standard actuator or the radius actuator for installation just 50mm from the hinge line on small openings, and the switch head can be rotated to give a choice of four different actuator entry positions.

The last group within the PSENmech range is the PSEN me4 family of slimline switches. These have a similar range of options to the other models, such as either a 10N or 100N holding force and a choice of safety contacts: one normally-open and one normally-closed; two normally-closed; or two normally-closed and one normally-open (make before break). A three-way coded actuator is supplied with each switch, and the switch head can be rotated in 90-degree increments to give a choice of four different actuator entry positions.

All of the Pilz PSENmech mechanical switches are available now, and most can be delivered from stocks held in the UK.

For more information about the PSENmech mechanical switches, please visit the Pilz website at www.pilz.co.uk.

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