Siemens Automation and Drives is now offering a Profisafe fieldbus interface on its 3SF7844 safety light curtains from the Simatic-FS420I family. This enables fail-safe communication in typical applications such as presses, stamping machines, coilers, cutting machines and commissioning stations. The unit also protects access and supply areas.

A Profisafe interface enables comprehensive diagnostics via Profibus and automation parameter matching.

With a data transmission rate of up to 12 megabits per second, secure cyclical and acyclical data traffic via Profibus DP is supported. This means that fast safety-relevant real-time data as well as extensive diagnostics data can be exchanged with the programmable logic controller. The self-parameterisation function minimises downtime when a device has to be replaced.

The light curtains comply with the requirements of safety Category 4 of EN 954-1, type 4 of IEC/EN 61496, and SIL 3 of IEC61508. There are versions with resolutions of 14, 30 and 50mm and protection field heights of 150 to 3000mm. The test signal, start/restart inhibit, contactor monitoring, blanking, muting and cycle control functions have already been integrated. The functions are adapted individually, either by means of six internal switches or via the optical interface of the receiver, ie using a teach-in method or with the help of the user-friendly diagnostic and parameterising software Safetylab.

Thanks to specially developed integrated circuits (ASICs) and a patented, intelligent analysis process, they are especially fail-safe and highly available. Whether protecting body parts, securing horizontal hazardous areas or the access to larger areas – the widest range of functions such as start and restart locking, contactor monitoring, jog control or blanking allow for many different applications.

For more information, visit www.siemens.de