Advantages of one-piece safety sensors vs. two-piece safety interlocking switches

Detection without magnetic target or coded actuator
ifm’s latest advancement in safety switch technology enables an inductive proximity sensor to be applied in safety applications. ifm’s fail-safe inductive sensors do not require a coded magnet or keyed target for safe operation. The wear-free, one-piece solution replaces the traditional two-piece safety switch by integrating ifm’s patented non-contact inductive sensing principle.

Similar to an inductive proximity sensor, ifm’s fail-safe sensor can detect any standard metal target such as stainless or mild steel. The difference is ifm’s control-reliable design. An ifm fail-safe inductive sensor provides continuous evaluation of its internal circuitry to indicate proper operation and to insure that no faults have occurred. The sensor’s continual self-check operation enables it to achieve the following safety certifications:

• IEC 61408 and ISO 13489-1 Pl d.
• IEC 61408 and ISO 13489-1 Pl e.
• EIC 62061 SICcl2
• EIC 62061 SICcl3
• IEC 61508 SIL 3

Interlocking safety switch

Two-piece mechanism requires actuating key or coded magnet for operation

Operates with only specific styles of key or magnets

Two-piece mounting requires exact alignment and are subject to misalignment over time

Screw terminals for wiring

ifm Safety Product Offering

		Fail-safe inductive proximity sensors • 12, 18, 30mm standard housings • Detection without magnetic target or coded actuator • Reliable end position monitoring on moving machine parts • Meets the requirements of IEC 61508 and ISO 13489-1 Pl d. • Certified to IEC 62061 SILcl2 More Information
		Fail-safe inductive proximity sensor • Rectangular housing with sensing face that rotates in 5 directions • Detection without magnetic target or coded actuator • High tolerance to misalignment and nuisance tripping • Meets the requirements of IEC 61508 and ISO 13489-1 Pl e. • Certified to IEC 62061 SILcl3 More Information
		Multi-function safety relay connects safety sensors to safety devices • Connects E-stops with cross-fault and optional simultaneous monitoring • Compatible with ifm clocked fail-safe sensors and mechanical safety switches • Connects two-hand controls, light curtains and protective guards • Two normally open safety contacts are rated for up to 6A • Meets the requirements of IEC 61508 SIL 3 More Information