Elesa components provide simple machine guarding solutions

Building on the basis of industry standard tubular frame systems, the Elesa range makes it possible for a complete frame to be assembled with associated panel fixing, panel hingeing, door fabrication, door hingeing, locking and interlocking to ensure quick, simple, robust and reliable installations. Fundamental to many guarding systems is the need for square tube connectors. Elesa's STC range comprises zinc-plated steel reinforced and stainless steel reinforced plastic versions which suit 20, 25 and 30 mm square tubes and eliminate the need for welding. The completed frame requires both fixed and moveable panels in materials from wire mesh to polycarbonate. PC panel support clamps, suitable where a fixed installation is required, enable robust installation of guard panels up to 8 mm thick without the need to drill. These clamps are fully retained assemblies which fix by machine screw to the guard frame and are compliant with the Machine Directive 2006/42/CE Part 1, 4.2. This specifies that "the Fixing Systems of guards must remain attached to the guards or to the machinery when the guards are removed". Panel installation with PC panel support clamps requires only that the correct spacer be fitted to match the relevant panel thickness and then the hex keyed screw (M6) be tightened up – the positive grip characteristics of the clamp plus its method of fixing then ensure a secure fixing of the guard panel. An opening panel for quick access can be achieved by the use of Elesa's ball shaped door lock – typically applied on sliding access doors or on window style ventilation panels, either on its own or with locking handle, or with safety switch enabled hinges, such as the Elesa CFS range. Single screw fitting for the ball and for the spring clamp elements facilitates quick and positive location – while spacers of 5, 10 and 15 mm allow the installation to compensate for differences of thickness between the door and the frame so ensuring a proper fit and finish. The especially ergonomic ESC door lock handle design allow fast operation even with a gloved hand. Electrical/electronic control cabinets guard doors are now available with the cut-off switch as an integral facility of the hinge itself. The Elesa CFSW IP67 180° hinge has its own built-in multiple safety switch, so that in the event of accidental opening of a control cabinet door, machine panel or safety door, it automatically shuts off the power, so protecting the operators of machinery and production equipment. The CFSW is paired with its equivalent mechanical hinge, the CFMW so creating a tough, safe installation. The CFSW is double insulated and approved AC15 (IEC 60947-5-1) and DC13 (IEC 60947-5-2) for use up to 400V-4A (AC15). It is available with different combinations of contacts with positive opening (2NO+2NC, 1NO+3NC, etc). These robust units are tested to over 1 million operating cycles and are totally tamper-proof. Standard connectivity is with 8 pole connector or 8 core cable in 2 or 5 m lengths. A 180º opening is usual but other operating angles can be specified. Operational configurations include: NC with positive opening – for removal/cutting off of power; NO – for operation of positive alarms, etc; and NC + NO versions combined to achieve both functions simultaneously. CFSQ and CFS hinge operation is adjustable in 15° anH increments from a minimum of 5° up to maximum of 180°. The 5° angle is appropriate for standard (small) doors but is adjustable prior to installation down to 1° for large doors to minimise opening aperture. The integral hinge/switch technology is easy to install mechanically and electrically, while being compatible with most common aluminium profiles or steel tube systems.