New valves that support international machine safety standards

22 September, 2016

The VP-X555 and X585 are designed to be used as components in categories 3 and 4 and join the existing range of safety valves – VP-X536, VP-X538 and VG-X87 – already available in response to ISO13849-1.

Adhering to international machine safety standards is a must for manufacturers and designers following the introduction of ISO13849-1.

Working in partnership with its customers and understanding their challenges, means that SMC, the world leader in pneumatics, is continuously seeking safety solutions to help achieve those outlined by ISO13849-1. The standard sets out safety requirements and guidance on the principles for the design and integration of safety-related parts of control systems, including the design of software.

Responding to ISO13849-1, SMC provides a range of safety components including a series of single and dual residual pressure release valves – VP-X536, VP-X538 and VG-X87.

Now SMC is extending its range of safety components with a further two 3-port solenoid valves – VP-X555 and VP-X585 series – for categories 3 and 4. Both models feature an integrated soft start-up function that gradually builds the pressure of the pneumatic system, delivering performance consistency and excellent safety. They also have two stations, so if one fails to operate, residual pressure is released by the remaining valve to maintain the safety function.

A spokesperson from SMC said: “We understand that manufacturing safety is a key consideration for all system operators and designers, so at SMC we are constantly looking at ways to support our customers in terms of providing safety components, equipment selection and reliable data about our products. These valves are the latest in a series of components whereby safety is key to their design.”

Further features of the of the VP-X555 and X585 include a selectable throttle and fixed orifice that allows the pressure to be easily adjusted. In addition, they come with IP65 enclosure protection, a choice of safety limit switches and the ability to connect to modular type FRL units, offering superb flexibility and versatility and allowing the valves to be used across a broad range of applications.

www.smcpneumatics.co.uk