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• Automation Today
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UPDATE #9

• Summary

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In this issue:

• Economic new compact I/O modules offer ease-of-use
• Softstarter with integrated I/O offers diagnostic and control capability
• Software bundle helps users to manage processes effectively
• Ethernet processor added to PLC-5 controller family
• Add more flexibility and reliability
• Breakers and contactors ready for export to China
• Getting tough with power integrity
• Mini contactors and relays enhance modular control system range
• Broader Terminal Blocks offering allows better solutions
• Data collector for multiple applications suits all users
• New condition-monitoring modules expand predictive maintenance offering
• Fixed-time relay offers low-cost solution
• Greater safety for machine operators
• Miniature proximity sensors are ideal where space is limited
• Flexible, cost effective, closed-loop speed and positional control
• Minotaur MRS300 Modular Monitoring Safety Relays

Extended operator protection for harsh environments

Allen-Bradley Guardmaster has launched a stainless steel version of its Lifeline 4 cable pull switch for industries where hygiene and/or corrosion resistance are essential requirements. The 316-bodied Lifeline 4 is ideal for both internal and external use, providing constant emergency stop access along exposed conveyors and around awkward machinery. It is a unique product offering that addresses a known market need – it is the only investment-cast stainless steel cable pull switch of its type for use in harsh environments.

The new product takes the proven technology of the standard Lifeline 4 and extends it into hygiene conscious industries, such as food and beverage, and others such as quarrying and mining, paper production and automotive, where corrosion can be a major problem. In all of these industries the ability of the stainless steel Lifeline 4 to deliver robust, reliable and cost effective emergency stop provision is a factor not only geared towards improved safety, but also in achieving more continuous production through reductions in unscheduled downtime – a potential result of corroded cable pull switches.

Offering the benefits of IP66 protection for hose downs, and IP67 for full immersion, the stainless steel Lifeline 4 is designed for continuous operation in demanding environments. The robust body is unpainted and all markings are laser etched to ensure that they cannot flake off. In addition, the seal between the lid and the body protrudes slightly so that it is not a food trap and the pads on the base are built up, allowing wash down water to flow behind the switch.

Complementing these external design features is a positive-mode operating mechanism that delivers positive, immediate, latched operation in response to a definite deflection, at the same time offering protection against the effects of nuisance tripping and thermal expansion.

The positive-mode operation is one of several major features that make the unit the most versatile cable operated safety switch on the market. In addition to its integrated cable status indicator located on the switches top face and four internal sets of contacts (2 N.C. + 2 N.O.), it also includes a mushroom head emergency stop button conforming to EN418 providing an emergency stop facility even at the extreme ends of the cable span.

In common with all versions of the Lifeline range, the stainless steel Lifeline 4 is easy to set-up and maintain. It can be mounted in any position using a combination of a stainless steel installation kit and the integrated cable status indicator.

When correctly installed, a pair of switches will serve as a safety grab wire – up to 75m in length. This large span helps to reduce the number of emergency stops required while also providing a tripping facility for effecting machine shutdowns and lockouts if an operator should fall or is pushed against the cable wire.
Ideal for OEM use, the stainless steel Lifeline 4 meets the stringent requirements of EN418 “Safety of Machinery - Emergency Stop Equipment” and conforms to ISOTR 12100, ISO13850, EN60947-5-5 and IEC60947-5-1. The product is CE marked as well as offering cULus and TUV approvals.