Compact solenoid interlocks for explosible areas

With series EEx AZM 415 steute has introduced - as far as they know - the first solenoid interlock that meets the ATEX directive for explosion hazards arising from gas and dust and is certified correspondingly. Now this range of Ex safety interlocks is extended by a compact series.

The EEx STM 295 is suitable for smaller, lighter guard doors. As basis steute uses the proven switch insert of the EEx 95 series placed in an enclosure made of glass fibre reinforced thermoplastic. An electromechanical interlock keeps the door closed. The switching element with 2 NC and 2 NO contacts creates the condition for flexible switching; moreover the operator can choose between variants with power-to-lock and spring-to-lock current principle which is preferred by the health and safety executives.

This kind of interlocks is used when safety reasons require them, i. e. when the machine still carries out hazardous movements even after being switched off. More often interlocks are used when there are no over-travels - as alternative to the conventional safety switches. For the latched guard door also secures that the working process cannot be interrupted by opening of the door. Thus safety interlocks make their contribution to high productivity.

The EEx STM 295 is suitable - in connection with the safety relay SRM 21 RT2 - for being used up to control category 4 as per EN 954-1. It was developed for applications in Ex zones 1 and 2 as well as 21 and 22 and thus can be used in explosive endangered areas caused by dust or gas.