FEATURE MACHINE SAFETY Keeping it lean and simple


The application of lean concepts for the design phase of a product can result in the creation of a more robust, simple to use safety solution which can help ensure compliance with safety protocols


M


anufacturers are utilising lean manufacturing principles to


optimise their performance and to regularly identify and eliminate waste in the production process. As waste is removed, product quality is improved and costs are reduced. Lean manufacturing methods are also


being used to ensure the quality of products while offering cost-saving benefits that can be passed on to the customer. Machine safety equipment is no exception. A good example of the benefits of adopting lean principles can be seen in the production of the EZ-Screen LS safety light screen which combines machine safety and the notion of lean manufacturing by focusing on features that provide high-value for most applications while eliminating unnecessary cost and simplifying the installation without compromising safety. The light screens are available in sensor


lengths from 280mm to 1820mm in 70mm increments with resolutions


(detection capability) of 14, 23 and 40mm, with sensing ranges of up to 12m. The simplified design means that the devices are also simple to use. There is no need for PC software, no DIP switch selection or any other device is needed, ensuring quick, easy configuration. EZ-Screen LS design also affords a ‘no blind zone’ providing end-to-end sensing with no gaps in detection. Up to


Product range tackles even tough safety needs


Having access to a vast range of safety products, from a single source, enables machine and plant safety operators to quickly and easily identify and purchase vital safety equipment for a project. The latest products available from RS Components (RS), the trading brand of Electrocomponents plc, include light curtains from ABB and safety controllers from Pilz, alongside multiple other machine-guarding solutions from a variety of suppliers. For electrical safety, Dymo labelling machines can be used to address safe codes of practice, while passive/active signage, safety mats and test equipment also help address important legislation requirements. In terms of site security and access control, RS stocks multiple products from Samsung’s security


equipment, including CCTV and display products. For personnel protection, the RS PPE landing page links to a range of products required for complete protection, including 3M ear defenders, MAPA gloves, JSP harnesses and CAT footwear. RS also stocks its own range of safety products, designed to offer value for money. Key products in the RS Pro range include PPE, spill control, access control, emergency lighting, lockouts, tools and a range of signage. To help with selection, the RS online DesignSpark resource is able to offer information and advice. It also


provides a useful information source for the latest safety news, solutions and products. This added-value service offers software, 3D models, articles, tools and forum discussions. Safety should never be seen as a hindrance and effective safety regimens and procedures can be directly


related to bottom-line performance. With its wide range of products, advice and support, RS can help customers address even demanding safety concerns. RS Components


www.rs-online.com 10 AUTUMN 2016 | INDUSTRIAL COMPLIANCE T: 08457 201201


four systems, irrespective of length, resolution or number of beams, can be cascaded and automatically configured. Highly visible alignment indicators and


intuitive diagnostics simplify setup, facilitate troubleshooting and minimise system downtime. The addition of dual scan technology makes the sensor immune to EMI, RFI, ambient light, weld flash, and strobe light.


TYPICAL APPLICATIONS Typical applications for the safety light screen include automated production equipment, robotic work cells, moulding and power presses, and assembly and packaging machines. Lean manufacturing has been around


for a lot longer than most people realise, having been developed by Toyota in the late 40’s and early 50’s. Toyota adopted a number of American production and quality techniques, principally from Henry Ford, to build the production process that we know as lean manufacturing today. Banner Engineering fully embraces and continually builds on this principle to the ongoing benefit of its customers.


Turck Banner www.turckbanner.co.uk T: 01268 578888


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