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Single-beam safety light barriers are ‘world’s smallest’
Published:  02 November, 2016

The German machine safety specialist Schmersal claims to have developed the world’s smallest safety light barriers with built-in evaluation functions. The single-beam SLB 240/440/450 barriers measure 28 x 32 x 72mm (or 91mm long for versions with connector sockets), and can be mounted quickly in confined spaces.

The barriers, which will make their public debut at the SPS IPC Drives show in Germany later this month, have an operating range of 15 metres. There is also a larger version, measuring 49 x 126mm, with a range of up to 75m.

The barriers are said to be particularly useful for securing smaller hazards, such as machines with small openings or slots. Any interruption to the light beam triggers a signal which stops potentially hazardous machine movements.

The barriers have two safe semiconductor outputs and can be incorporated into safety circuits without needing external safety evaluation. They comply with the requirements of Type 2 or 4 applications in accordance with IEC 61496. They can be used, for example, to prevent collisions and damage in high-bay warehouses by recognising objects and recording heights.

The 75m-range version can be fitted with a heater, allowing it to be used in temperatures down to –30°C.

Schmersal claims that its SLB range of single-beam safety light barriers are the world's smallest with built-in evaluation functions

A visual set-up guide simplifies commissioning. A command device such as a button avoids the need to use PCs for configuration. A four-way coding level allows up to four pairs of sensors to be used together without affecting each other.

The SLB barriers complete Schmersal’s range of optoelectronic safety equipment, which also includes multi-beam light barriers and light curtains.