Safety devices cut down on wiring

Schmersal UK estimates that companies can save between 20 and 30% on AS-i Safety at Work installations by using its range of AS-i embedded-chip safety devices.

With its range of AS-i embedded-chip safety devices now available ex-stock, specialist safety equipment manufacturer Schmersal UK estimates that companies can save between 20 and 30% on AS-i Safety at Work installations by eliminating I/O blocks and the extra wiring needed to install them.

Commenting on the savings, Schmersal Managing Director Terry Hayward says he is concerned that machine builders and plant managers could be seriously underestimating the number of I/O blocks they need, and therefore the costs.

"Unlike a standard AS-i network, where up to four automation devices can be wired to each I/O block, AS-i Safety at Work systems are limited to two devices per I/O block for Category 1 or 2 installations and only one device per I/O block for Category 3 or 4", he says, adding that cost may not be the only thing that increases.

"Extra I/O blocks and wiring also take up space that may not be available and can increase the incidence of faults in the system", he says.

Schmersal's embedded chip technology replaces the conventional safety device and separate I/O block with a single, integrated unit that connects directly to the yellow AS-i cable, creating a much more efficient AS-i network.

Programming the required safety functions is very simple using "asimon" software.

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