Product category:
Machine Safety Components
News Release from: Schmersal UK | Subject: EX 14 explosion-proof position switch
Edited by the Engineeringtalk Editorial
Team on 26 June 2001
Mixing machine manufacturer uses
Ex-rated switch
At Netzsch Mastermix an explosion-proof position switch is used on a machine's lifting head to prevent the blade from becoming exposed when it is raised in the vessel during its mixing cycle
Walsall based Netzsch Mastermix, a leading manufacturer of mixing machines for paints, inks and general chemicals, has been able to enhance the specification of its machines, reduce stock and save money by specifying Schmersal explosion-proof position switches To mix material, a container is secured under the machine and a mixing head lowers a blade into it
This article was originally published on Engineeringtalk on 14 Mar 2000 at 8.00am (UK)
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The container is then filled with liquid and the mixing begins.
Electrical engineering manager Scott Stephenson explains: "A Schmersal EX 14 explosion-proof position switch is used on the machine's lifting head to prevent the blade from becoming exposed when it is raised in the vessel during its mixing cycle.
A similar switch is also used to detect whether the container is clamped into position.
The two EX 14 position switches are used with a Schmersal AZR 200AR safety monitoring module." The company had previously used fail-safe proximity switches with fail-safe evaluators on the machines - and specified different versions for hazardous and non-hazardous mixing applications.
The EX 14 switches achieve the same functionality as the proximity switches at a much more competitive price.
This has enabled Netzsch Mastermix to standardise on a single explosion-proof switch for all its machines - reducing both inventory and stock.
And the company was able to use the monitoring module without rewiring the machine, which provided an additional cost benefit! Scott Stephenson reports that changing the machine's specification was very straightforward and the Schmersal units have proved extremely reliable.
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