Safety Interlocks with Solenoid Controlled Guard Locking
Safety interlocks with guard locking provide reliable position detection for movable guards and feature a locking mechanism that keeps the guard securely closed until the hazard is resolved. These tongue-operated switches are installed on the leading edge of sliding or hinged machine guards, offering positively operated switching contacts and a tamper-resistant cam interlock mechanism.
IDEM’s safety interlocks securely mount to the guard or machine frame, with the actuator attached
to the movable guard part and aligned with the switch entry. The actuator engages a cam
mechanism within the switch head, closing the safety contacts when inserted and enabling the
machine’s start circuit. The solenoid then opens the safety contacts, breaking the machine
circuit and allowing the guard to open. These switches can include safety timers for delayed
opening in machines requiring a run-down period, and standard models automatically lock when the
actuator inserts, unlocking only with solenoid power.
Depending on the application’s risk assessment, these switches can operate alone for positively
operated contacts per EN60947-5-1 or combine with dual-channel safety monitoring relays to
achieve up to PLe Category 4 (ISO13849-1) or SIL3 (EN62061). Safety interlocks with guard
locking and OSSD outputs ensure the highest machine safety, especially for applications
requiring PL e, with real-time status feedback for continuous monitoring.
Our Safety Interlocks with Guard Locking are ideal for most industrial applications, including
but not limited to:
