SICK’s deTem Core light curtains set new standards for multi-beam protection

SICK has set new standards in the use of multiple light beams to safeguard the area surrounding hazardous machinery with the launch of the deTem Core family of safety light curtains for applications up to SIL3 / PL ‘e’ (Type 4).

The deTem2 Core and deTem4 Core multi-beam range complement SICK’s popular deTec4 and deTec2 light curtain range. The deTem’s long range and space-saving capability enable the safety distances around machines to be minimised without compromising productivity.

“The SICK deTem4/2 Core multi-beam light curtains can be easily integrated into intralogistics machines, materials handling machines and packaging production lines,” says Dr Martin Kidman, SICK’s UK safety product specialist. “They are particularly useful where long range access protection is needed, or where an alternative is needed to extensive physical guarding, or if multiple light curtains are being used to protect a large area.

“Setting up and commissioning the deTem light curtains does not require a PC, so operators can quickly be assured of protection against unsafe access with minimal interruption to operation. From the system integrator’s viewpoint, the deTem2 Core and deTem4 Core models are also simple to incorporate into the safety system design.”

The SICK deTem4 Core and deTem2 Core offer protection with two, three or four beams with beam separations of 500mm, 400mm or 300mm respectively and can cover a range up to a massive 80 metres, adding further versatility.

“Choosing the right solution depends on your application and standards such as EN ISO 13855 for the positioning of safeguards or the EN 415 set of standards for the safety of packaging machines can assist,” adds Kidman.

The SICK deTem4/2 Core multi-beam light curtains are contained in slim housings for ease of installation, with IP65 and IP67 protection ratings, an operating temperature range of -30^oC to +55^oC and offer protective field heights in increments of 800mm, 1000mm and 1200mm. The deTem2units are Type 2 devices (IEC 61495) and can be used in Safety-Related Parts of Control Systems (SRP/CS) up to PLc/ SIL 1. The deTem4 units are Type 4 devices (IEC 61496) and can be used in SRP/CS up to PLe/SIL3.

As the SICK deTem4/2 Core light curtains work only in protective mode, configuration and range adjustment is automatic, requiring no additional set-up. Diagnostic codes are simple and additional functions can be set up via safety relays, or the SICK Flexi Classic or Flexi Soft safety controllers.

A combination of the innovative mounting bracket, semi-circular contours and alignment LEDs greatly facilitate the set-up process, meaning the SICK’s deTem4/2 Core can be installed quickly and easily in seconds. SICK’s deTem4/2 Cores benefit from a rugged enclosure guaranteeing operation in harsh conditions and a variety of demanding industrial environments, including low temperature.