DPA Magazine | Features - The Engineer's Trusted Source of inductry articles

Beacons and sounders: it's all a matter of 'good practice'

09/07/2012

The Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC urges machine builders to undertake a thorough safety analysis of the systems that monitor and control the operation of their machines. While the 'dos' and 'don'ts' are well defined in the Directive for many aspects of machine safety, guidelines for the provision of visual and audible warning indicators are more vague; there is ‘guidance’ but little in the way of ‘you must....’. In Simon Adams’ view, it is more a case of applying 'good practice'.

Bespoke machine handles special bonding task

09/07/2012

The Dorset based company, inrekor has developed an innovative structural sandwich panel technology based on JSP's 'ARPRO' expanded polypropylene core material with external layers of steel or aluminium. With far reaching potential for lightweight and low-cost vehicle chassis and many other structural frame applications across all industries, the high strength-to-weight ratio inrekor panel can be applied to small and large scale manufacture with minimal tooling investment.

Guarding against machine safety failure

09/07/2012

Although guards play a vital role in ensuring that machines are safe, in Paul Laidler's view they are often treated surprisingly casually and continue to be the cause of many severe injuries that could have been prevented. To try and tackle this problem, the updated Machinery Safety Directive (2006/42/EC) came into force in December 2009. This must now be observed by anyone supplying a machine in the European Union.

Screw jacks conjure magical motor show

09/07/2012

Power Jacks helped to get the show on the road when top European car manufacturer, Mercedes-Benz wanted to stage a spectacular UK launch for a new model. The company had just three weeks to devise and deliver a custom-built system for a stunning showcase that would tour major shopping centres up and down the country.

Are your safeguards as safe as you think?

09/07/2012

There are doubtless many machines in the UK fitted with multiple guards that are monitored in one circuit by series connected safety switches with dual channel wiring; does this sound like one of your machines? Can any of these guards be opened simultaneously? Then read on, advises David Collier.

Machine Building Features

Beacons and sounders: it's all a matter of 'good practice'

Bespoke machine handles special bonding task

Guarding against machine safety failure

Screw jacks conjure magical motor show

Are your safeguards as safe as you think?