Safety Relays

More Information about Safety Relays

The number of safety contacts and the acceptable level of performance level can vary depending on the specific function and safety application. For example, some safety relays may have additional contacts for specific functions, while others may be suitable for a wide range of safety functions. The use of solid-state devices in safety relays can improve reliability and reduce maintenance.

Safety relays are typically connected to input terminals that receive an input signal from a sensor or other input device. They operate according to the safety function and the ISO 13849 standard, which specifies the requirements for safety-related control systems. The ISO 13849 standard defines the performance level required for safety functions, and safety relays must be designed to meet these requirements.

In the event of a fault or emergency, safety relays will activate and interrupt the power supply to the load, preventing further operation of the equipment. Troubleshooting a safety relay system can involve testing the inputs and outputs, checking the wiring and connections, and verifying that the safety function is working as intended.

Safety relays play an essential role in ensuring the safe operation of machinery and equipment. They provide a reliable and robust safety system that can be used in a variety of applications, and they are designed to meet the requirements of the ISO 13849 standard for safety-related control systems.

FAQs

What is a safety control module?

A safety control module, also known as a safety controller or safety PLC (Programmable Logic Controller), is an advanced safety device used in industrial applications to monitor and control safety functions.

Safety Relays 

In the event of a hazard, safety relays can help reduce the risk to a more acceptable level. They are commonly designed to be used in conjunction with other safety relays to increase the functionality and safety levels in work environments. The design and functionality of these relays is similar to regular relays, with a few exceptions. Like a common relay, safety relays use contacts that can be opened or closed. However, they also have the ability to evaluate and then control outputs based on those evaluations. If installed correctly, a safety relay will continue to function if a fault in a device occurs or if a fault is caused by a sensor. The redundant design features of safety relays allow for wiring errors, while still providing proper safety function. 

It is very common to see safety relays being used around industrial machinery where safety is critical. Areas such as an industrial manufacturing plant environment, where there are a lot of motors, machinery and conveyors all operating simultaneously. Some of the devices that safety relays will be used with are emergency stops, three position devices, safety gates, pressure sensitive mats, contact strips, foot operated switches and time delay scenarios. Safety relays are tested much more vigorously than normal relays and have a much lower failure rate. The contacts are designed so that they can be completely disconnected, breaking both sides of the power connection as opposed to just one, like many normal relays.