Mistura manages access to Albon’s automation
Mistura manages access to Albon’s automation
Keywords: Safety, Robots
Trapped key interlocks from Mistura Systems are ensuring worker safety on automated production lines at Albon Engineering. Each lines’ machines and robots are enclosed separately behind perimeter guarding, and access for operators is strictly controlled by the Mistura trapped key interlock system(see Plate 2).
Albon Engineering machines automotive parts such as con rods, fly wheels and engine blocks in high volumes for heavy plant vehicles. The company’s machines are loaded and unloaded by robots. The machines, designed and manufactured by Albon, are set in modular cells that are self-contained and guarded. They are incorporated into a production line via connecting conveyors.
Plate 2Trapped key interlocks from Mistura Systems are ensuring worker safety on automated production lines at Albon Engineering. Each line’s machines and robots are enclosed separately behind perimeter guarding, and access for operators is strictly controlled by the Mistura trapped key interlock system
In each cell, separate perimeter guarding surrounds the machine and the robot, and safe access to either is controlled by the Mistura interlocks. Mistura’s trapped key interlocks are built for strength and designed to resist tampering and abuse, and Albon Engineering has found them to be extremely reliable. There is no limit to the number of functions that can be controlled,thanks to the use of unique Modular Key Exchange Units.
If there is a problem with one of Albon’s robots then an operator can perform its tasks, but the trapped key system ensures that access can only be achieved, once the robot is deactivated and completely safe. Similarly, access to the machine can only be achieved once the machine is stopped or is in manual mode. In manual mode, access to the robot is impossible and it can only operate in ‘low’ or ‘teach’ mode. Operation of the machine is also safely restricted.
Company contact: Colin Wells. Tel: +44 (0)20 8511 1852; Fax: +44 (0)20 8200 6464; E-mail: cwells@mistura.co.uk
