Product category:
Safety relays, interlocks, control systems, electrical components
News Release from: Pilz Automation Technology | Subject: Software-configurable, modular safety controllers
Edited by the Manufacturingtalk Editorial
Team on 23 March 2005
Extra components benefit power press
safety
Extra I/O modules, components developed specifically for users of power presses, plus the configuration software has been upgraded to suit increased functionality of PNOZmulti system.
New additions to the PNOZmulti family of software-configurable, modular safety controllers from Pilz Automation Technology further expand the versatility and scope of applications for this mid-range system Not only are there more base units available, but there are now extra I/O modules, components developed specifically for users of power presses, plus the configuration software has been upgraded to suit the increased functionality of the PNOZmulti system
This article was originally published on Manufacturingtalk on 28 Jul 2008 at 8.00am (UK)
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For simple machinery with just three to six safety functions, the PNOZ m0p base unit offers the same functionality as the existing PNOZ m1p controller, but without the facility to add expansion modules (other than for communications).
This safety controller offers a level of functionality and ease of use that will appeal to machine builders, system integrators and end users alike, and the price is such that it is suitable for both one-off and series machines, whether or not future changes to the software configuration are anticipated.
In line with the other products in the PNOZmulti range, the PNOZ m0p is appropriate for applications calling for safety control circuits meeting the requirements of BS EN 954-1 Category 2, 3 or 4.
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A new version of the PNOZ m1p safety controller is also being launched with coated circuit boards that enable it to be used in harsh environments.
It benefits from an extended operating temperature range, plus it resists condensation and corrosive gases.
As with the existing PNOZ m1p, the coated version handles a maximum of 24 safety functions, or it can be cascaded in a series or tree configuration for an almost unlimited number of safety functions, or to facilitate selective shutdowns or partial commissioning of machinery.
Coated versions of the PNOZmulti safety input and output modules are also being added to the range so that complex safety control systems can be built for use in harsh environments.
Designed specifically for power press applications, the PNOZ m2p safety controller features the same scan time as the other base units but it performs double the number of processes in the same time.
When used in conjunction with the appropriate certified software blocks, the PNOZ m2p will monitor special press operating modes such as set-up, single-stroke and automatic, plus it can operate with light curtains in single-break or double-break mode, as well as monitoring camshafts and press safety valves.
In common with the PNOZ m1p, the new controller can be equipped with a wide range of expansion modules and communications interfaces.
To complement the PNOZ m2p safety controller, a new PNOZ mo3p safe semiconductor output module is now available with dual-pole switching for both the live and neutral feed to, typically, a press safety valve (PSV).
Another new module being launched is the PNOZ ms2p safe speed and standstill monitor.
Whereas the earlier PNOZ ms1p operated with a 5V encoder, the new module accepts any incremental encoder input with differential output from 0.5 to 30V, which makes it easier to integrate with encoders already installed on a machine, and it gives machine builders and system integrators a virtually free hand in selecting the optimum encoder for an application.
Machine builders and system integrators who do not wish to use valuable safety inputs for signals such as reset and start can now purchase the PNOZ mi2p standard input module for these functions.
Alternatively the module can be used to monitor auxiliary equipment such as fans, pumps or non-safety-critical limit switches.
The standard input module it also useful when implementing 'enable' mode on a machine, where both safety and standard control systems have to be used together.
Up to eight inputs can be monitored per module, and a maximum of eight PNOZ mi2p modules can be connected to a single base unit.
This input module is similar to the PNOZ mc1p communications module launched in 2004 that has 16 auxiliary semiconductor outputs for transmitting, for example, status and diagnostic data to a PLC.
If large loads need to be switched safely, the new PNOZ pe2p coupling connector enables a PNOZmulti safety controller to be linked to a PNOZpower safety relay/contactor that can switch up to 16A per contact, or a maximum of 40A per module.
This means that a PNOZmulti safety control system can be used very easily on heavy-duty equipment, with no need for additional relays or wiring.
Furthermore, the PNOZpower module benefits from being integrated with the communications capability of the PNOZmulti system (modules are currently available for Profibus DP, DeviceNet, Interbus, CANopen and CC-Link).
In order that the full functionality of the new controllers and modules can be enjoyed, Pilz is also releasing version 4 of the PNOZmulti Configurator software.
This includes all of the necessary new function blocks, and a series of enhancements has been made to the user interface.
Contact Pilz for more information about the new additions to the PNOZmulti range.
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