Single source for machinery safety hardware, software and support
June 30th 2005 Pilz is renowned worldwide for its leadership in machinery safety technology, based largely on its popular range of safety relays - a product which the company invented. Today Pilz has a far broader range of products for machinery safety, enabling the company to offer machine builders, system integrators and end users a complete safety package that includes sensors, monitors, control hardware and software
These products are fully supported by engineers in the UK, with additional services covering training courses, consultancy and project management for all aspects of machinery safety. A free monthly email newsletter is published from the UK to keep engineers and managers informed about the latest developments in machinery safety, including legislation, regulations and standards
The company is also an official distributor for standards and other publications from BSI
Safe control technology Pilz offers what is believed to be the world’s widest range of electromechanical safety relays, with models available to suit virtually every conceivable safety control system conforming to the requirements of BS EN 954-1 Category 2, 3 or 4. In addition, state-of-the-art multifunctional PNOZelog microprocessor-based safety monitors are offered; these can be easily linked together to perform logic functions, plus they have a long service life, are resistant to vibration and benefit from built-in diagnostics
For applications that would otherwise require three or more safety relays, the Pilz PNOZmulti family of software-configurable, modular safety controllers is ideal. A choice of base units and a wide range of input, output and fieldbus communications modules make this system extremely cost-effective both for new-build and upgrade projects. All configuration is carried out with user-friendly drag-and-drop software that needs no prior experience of programming, and the configuration can be easily be copied - or modified - when series machines are being built or upgraded
More complex safety control tasks can be performed by the Pilz PSS (programmable safety system) range of ‘safe PLCs’ that are programmed using certified function blocks - which makes programming, documentation and verification straightforward. PSS controllers can perform highly sophisticated tasks within safety-related control systems conforming to the requirements of IEC/EN 61508 SIL 3. In many cases a PSS will be used in conjunction with a SafetyBUS p safety fieldbus network for the transmission of safety-relevant data to large numbers of distributed safety components and/or slave PSS controllers
Safe sensor components Pilz has an extensive range of PSENopt safety light curtains for finger, hand and body detection
A wide variety of models is available to suit the majority of machinery guarding applications, and several versions can be linked directly to a SafetyBUS p safety fieldbus network. To complement the light curtains, there is also a choice of mounting brackets and muting lamps
PSEN non-contact guard switches are ideal for applications where frequent access is necessary or where misalignment would otherwise cause wear problems for mechanical switches. Several alternative styles and configurations are listed, with evasion-proof and coded models to suit particular application requirements. Plug-in cables aid rapid installation, and optional LED indicators help to identify which guard has been opened
If traditional tongue-operated mechanical interlock guard switches are preferred, Pilz offers these with body styles and contact configurations to suit most applications. In addition, versions are available 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, and specially designed actuators can be specified for mounting close to the hinge line on small guards
No machine would be complete without at least one emergency stop switch, so Pilz supplies a range of PITestop switches that incorporate innovations that enhance safety and improve the speed with which operated pushbuttons can be identified. For instance, some models are fitted with a ring of LED indicators that illuminate when the pushbutton has been operated
Whatever the needs for safety on a new or existing machine, customers can turn to Pilz for advice and assistance with selecting the correct products to achieve the required level of safety
Contact Pilz now to find out more about the products and services available and to register for the free machinery safety newsletter. | 
