Feature

How safe is your machine speed?

Safe motion monitoring has become increasingly important in machine and system design.

01/02/2022 10:52:09

Conventional safety technology keeps the operator away from dangerous movement by shutting down the relevant drive when a moveable guard (e.g safety door) is opened. This usually results in the removal of power sources, using contactors or other forms of power disconnection.

“Safe Switch Off”

Another example of this is Safe Torque Off, or STO, which has become common in modern drive systems. STO ensures that no power-generating energy is supplied to the motor, without the need for additional contactors or switchgear. This function corresponds to an uncontrolled stop in accordance with IEC 60204-1:2006 (9.2.1) and Stop Category 0 (stopping by immediate removal of power to the machine actuators).

Read the full article in the February issue of DPA

Written By Sophia Bell

Sophia Bell is the Group Editor of DPA, Connectivity, and PBSI. She joined the team in 2020 as Assistant Editor after achieving a First-Class Honours BA in English Literature and Film Studies from the University of East Anglia. In her current role, she leads the editorial strategy, driving digital growth and ensuring each title continues to deliver trusted, relevant insight for engineering and manufacturing professionals.