What are Interlock Switches?
Interlock switches in an electric circuit stop the current or change it from one conductor to another. When a guarding mechanism is required for machinery or industrial equipment, interlock switches are a type of safety device. The switch trips when the guard opens, opening the circuit and interfering with the circuit's current flow. If the circuit is broken, the equipment turns off.
What are interlock switches used for?
The primary purpose of an interlock switch is safety. It can be interlocked to prohibit the machine from functioning when a guard is removed. If a dangerous situation may occur as a result, a control may be interlocked to render it inoperable.
All forms of machinery in manufacturing and industrial settings use interlock switches. In household environments, interlock switches are also employed in appliances like automatic gates and slam-lock doors.
Types of interlock switches
Safe and non-safe interlocks are the two primary varieties. To build a control system, certain systems require both safe and non-safe interlocks. Simple electromechanical switches like magnetic or limit switches can be used as interlock switches. They also come in more complicated forms with sophisticated actuators and sensors that work together to construct interlocking structures. Contemporary interlocking switches are multipole magnetic and unusually shaped key switches.
Safety interlocks
The safety interlock exemplifies the format of a programming directive. These safety features keep goods and people safe while the machine is operating. A safety barrier, for instance, prevents individuals from entering a robotic cell to avoid coming into contact with moving parts. The safety circuit cannot be reset when the cell's fence gate is opened since it is awaiting the gate's closure. This stops someone from entering a robot cell while it's in motion.
Non-safe interlock
Non-safe interlocks are the other primary type of interlock. These are employed to safeguard machinery or unexpected actions. Noncontact safety interlocks operate by connecting a movable door guard to the hazard's power supply. An interlock, which stops the machine when tripped, is typically employed to help protect a machine from hurting its operator or destroying itself.
