CH 5 - Requirements for the design and the installation of interlocking devices with and without guard locking

Last edit: 06/07/2023

Interlocking devices shall be installed in a suitable robust manner and in accordance with any instructions provided by the manufacturer.

Tha Standard provides arrangement and fastening requirements both for position swithces and actuators.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5.2 Some requirements for position switches are:

  • Fasteners shall be reliable and loosening them shall require a tool [5.2.a];
  • Type 1 position switches shall have provisions for permanently fixing the location after adjustement [5.2.b];
  • The position switch shall be located and, if necessary, protected so that damage from foreseeable external causes is avoided [5.2.f];
  • A position switch shall not be used as mechanical stop, unless this is the intended use of the position switch as declared by manufacturer [5.2.h].

5.3 Some requirements for actuators are:

  • Fasteners of the actuators shall be reliable and loosening them shall require a tool [5.3.a];
  • The actuator shall be located and, if necessary, protected so that failure from foreseeable external causes is avoided [5.3.c];
  • An actuator shall not be used as mechanical stop, unless this is the intended use of the position switch as declared by manufacturer [5.3.d];
  • The support and fastening for the actuators shall be sufficiently rigid to maintain correct operation of the actuator [5.3.e].

The Standard also provides explanations regarding the attuation modalities of the interlock (direct or indirect) [5.4], the interface with the control system [5.5], the impact energy for mechanical stops [5.6] and the additional requirements to be followed if the locking generates hazards and if the device is used for the protection of people.

5.7 Additional requirements deal with:

  • Machanical and Electromagnetic locking device;
  • Holding force;
  • Supplementary release of guard locking (escape, emergency, auxiliary);
  • Fastenings.