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.

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