Safety first: SIL 3-compliant optical encoders
SIL 3-compliant optical encoders
Cologne – Starting with the first quarter of 2009, POSITAL will provide a safety version of the proven OPTOCODE encoders which is suitable for SIL 3 applications. The company, which has more than 30 years of experience in optoelectronic scanning, thereby extends its product portfolio based on cooperation with its FRABA group sister VITECTOR, which specializes in safety sensors.
The new encoders fulfill the requirements according to IEC 61508, EN 62061 (SIL CL 3) and EN ISO 13849 (performance level e). Operated with protective extra low voltage (PELV), they are suitable for use in drive technology, lift applications, construction machinery and machine tools. The units are equipped with a CANopen interface and support the CANopen Safety protocol according to CiA 304. A special feature is the redundant encoder design: thanks to dual opto arrays and two gearboxes, the units ensure optimal reliability while measuring only 16 mm more than standard models. Node number and Baud rate (up to 1 MBaud) are configured via a rotary switch at the connection cap.
Like all OPTOCODE encoders, the new safety models use a proven optoelectronic scanning method to record position values. The single-turn sensor provides a resolution of 13 bit per revolution. Additionally, a maximum of 16.384 revolutions (14 bit) can be registered in multi-turn mode, thereby covering a 27 bit measuring range. The encoders are available as solid shaft or synchronous shaft models. The units provide IP65 protection on the housing side and IP64 on the shaft side (an optional sealing ensures IP66).