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Electronic cable-pull switch is ‘the world's most advanced’
Rockwell Automation has developed what it claims is the world’s first solid-state cable-pull emergency-stop device, which uses a microprocessor-based technology to monitor and compensate for any thermal expansion or sagging of the trip-wire.
Traditional cable-pull switches are prone to nuisance trips and can be unreliable because of temperature-related changes in the cable tension. A patented rope-monitoring system in the new Allen-Bradley Guardmaster Lifeline 5 cable-pull switch compensates automatically for thermal expansion and cable sag.
“Because the Lifeline 5 cable-pull switch is a solid-state switch, there is no mechanical wear that is often associated with traditional switches,” says Rockwell’s product manager, Steve Tambeau. “That means increased uptime and more reliable safety function over a longer duty cycle.”
The new switch provides constant access to the E-stop function, allowing operators to prevent machine hazards with a simple pull of the attached cable. LED indicators help to tension the cable for quick, precise set-ups, while also providing switch status and diagnostics during operation, simplifying maintenance and troubleshooting.
The switch is available in IP66 die-cast aluminium or IP67 stainless-steel housings. The aluminium model offers an optional built-in E-stop button.
