Simplification cuts costs without reducing safety
A correctly designed and integrated machine safety system can provide a simpler, less costly, but no less safe machine.
Integration of standard and safety control in one platform can:
- Reduce installation and commissioning costs by utilising common programming tools
- Simplify testing and troubleshooting, leading to reduced costs
- Reduce the cost of personnel training through the use of standardised interface platforms
- Reduce system complexity and therefore the number of components required
Contemporary safety techniques such as zone control, muting and safe-speed control can achieve optimum machine operation and flexibility for:
- Part loading and unloading
- Maintenance tasks under partial power
- Operational interaction
Costs can be reduced through hardware and software simplification such as:
- A single network for automation and safety control
- A single programming environment
- Safety functions embedded in automation products such as controllers, drives, motion and network technologies
Applying the appropriate level of safety for your application will not only help to minimise nuisance trips and associated waste and lost production costs, but will also ensure you do not over-specify and overspend. To help you establish the correct safety level:
- Conduct a risk assessment to assess the level of safety appropriate to the application
- Select a supplier able to provide all three elements of a safety system (input, logic and actuator) and therefore able to match your requirements precisely
- Reduce your vendor management costs by choosing a single supplier able to offer standard automation and safety