Non-contact switches
April 1st 2008 Mechan Controls has
extended its SSS range of
electronically coded noncontact
safety switches with
the introduction of the SSR
and the SSC.
The new units build on the
success of the original SSS
switch, which protects staff
by ensuring that equipment
cannot be started unless the
machine guards are securely
closed, and by stopping the
equipment if any attempt is
made to open a guard while
production is in progress.
All products in the range
are tamper-resistant and can
only be operated by means of
an electronically coded
actuator.
Like the SSS, the SSR is
IP67 rated and can switch up
to 2 amps at 230VAC. The
new unit, however, is
available with dual colour
LED indication and up to
three contacts – two safety
and one auxiliary. This
switching capability means
the SSS can work with most
safety relays and removes the
need for buying a separate
switch-specific safety control
module. The dual LEDs are
driven by the control circuit
within the switch, so there
can be no false indication. As
a result, the SSR achieves a
Category 3 safety rating.
A similar configuration is
adopted by the SSC safety
switch, which is capable of
500mA switching and has
two contacts – one normally
open, one normally closed.
Like the other products in
the range, it eliminates the
threat of false indication. More articles from Mechan Controls plc: | 
