Feature

Light curtains require fewer supporting devices

For smaller production plants, the additional time and effort needed for implementing safety measures is relatively high. A novel solution to this problem can be found in Panasonic's light curtain SF4C.

19/10/2014 14:30:52

Emergency stop switches or safety door switches can be connected directly to this light curtain without need for a safety PLC. The additional contacts needed for monitoring the power relays can also be connected directly.

A total of six safety relays are normally needed to switch off a machine when up to three light curtains are mounted in cascade. Thanks to the SF4C, only tw safety relays are needed, reducing cost and wiring time.

It is also possible to dispense with signal towers, as the SF4C comes with externally controlled, highly visible red, yellow, and green LED signal lamps.

The SF4C series has safety class 4 (PLe, SIL3), a beam pitch of 10 and 20mm and a maximum protected height of 640mm. Additional features include muting, fixed and floating blanking, extraneous light check & avoid function, low weight thanks to the polycarbonate housing, an integrated error display and password protection.

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.