Protecting operators during access to robotic machines
As a business specialising in robotic machines for surface finishing, Intec Robotics approached Fortress Safety seeking a solution to meet safety requirements. The company needed interlocks that could offer both flexibility and reliability to adapt across different machine designs in their supported industries. The tGard range stood out as a robust solution with a compact design built for small mounting areas.
In automated processes like polishing, grinding, linishing and deburring, robotic machines for surface finishing use tools such as belts, wheels or brushes to deliver consistent and accurate finishes. While fixtures securely hold the workpiece, the programmable control systems would direct the robot’s movements, ensuring accuracy and consistent quality.
These machines can present significant hazards when operators need to access for setup, adjustments, or troubleshooting. Risks include exposure to moving parts, unexpected start-up or an operator becoming trapped. Effective risk reduction measures are essential to protect people and prevent unplanned downtime.
A standout product that meets Intec’s requirements is the tGard range from Fortress Safety. With a slim 40mm profile, tGard interlocks can be mounted easily into narrow areas. In addition, the range’s compact design allows pushbuttons and other control elements to be integrated into a single unit, along with emergency stops and escape releases. Having all necessary controls in one location boosts efficiency for operators while reducing error potential.
Intec Robotics has implemented tGard across various configurations over the years, from simple locking bodies to more complex solutions. It was one of the first manufacturers to adopt the tGard HLC (High Level Coded) version to increase protection against defeat of the interlock and enable guard monitoring up to PLe thanks to having an RFID actuator.
Personnel keys were included in some of the company’s solutions to prevent unexpected start-up and operators from being trapped inside. By carrying these keys with them when performing tasks, machines wouldn’t be able to restart until the keys are returned and the guards are closed.
