Next Steps: Machine Safeguarding

The latest in innovative safety systems that can help you protect your employees and equipment, reduce your costs and increase your productivity.

ZERO TRACKING HELPS OPERATORS AVOID COLLISIONS
MAG IAS LLC (Hebron, KY) introduces its exclusive W/Z zero tracking capability for its horizontal boring mills and horizontal machining centers with the Siemens 840D control, bringing a favorite operator-friendly feature to machinists programming collinear axes. Previously available only on the NumeriPath 8000 control, W/Z zero tracking for up to three collinear axes can be retrofitted to existing MAG machines with 840D controls or added to new machines.

W/Z tracking accounts for changes in machine geometry when one of the axes in a collinear set is repositioned in the part program. It electronically tracks each axis of the collinear set to calculate and maintain the correct part reference coordinate when one of the axes is repositioned. For example, the Z-axis reference point is typically the spindle gage line, while the W-axis reference point is a surface on the workpiece. After the W/Z relationship is established through part referencing, the control tracks all Z and W axis moves, displays their relationship, and moves one of the two axes to maintain the correct gap position.

W/Z tracking is especially useful when the machine operator modifies the part program at the CNC to account for interferences, better visual access to the cutting zone, etc. W/Z Tracking is available on MAG horizontal machines, including floor-type (FT/FTR series) and table-type (RT, PT and MC series) boring mills.

With manufacturing and support operations strategically located worldwide, MAG offers comprehensive lines of equipment and technologies including turning, milling, hobbing, grinding, honing, systems integration, composites processing, maintenance, automation and software, tooling and fluids, and core components. www.mag-ias.com

EXTRACTED KEY ADAPTOR ENSURES MACHINE SAFETY
Safety Interlocking company Fortress Interlocks (Erlanger, KY) added the Extracted Key Adaptor, the E1, to its amGard range of modular safety gate switch interlocks. The E1 restricts access to moving hazardous machinery by ensuring that the door to hazardous machinery cannot be opened without removing the safety key, and the machinery cannot then be restarted until the key is returned.

The mechanism is designed to trap an actuator in the head unit until the key is removed, which then allows the ‘gate’ to swing over the keyhole. While the actuator remains out of the head, the gate remains over the keyhole, preventing the key being returned to the lock.

E1 enables a specific sequence of operation and can be stacked or combined with other adaptors; up to five key adaptors can be used in one configuration. E1 also provides a unique link to high profile mechanical mGard range of interlocks. The system works with access key and safety key adapters, Fortress amGard LOK or STOP bodies and is suitable for either hinged or sliding door applications.

The modular arrangement of amGard allows customers to tailor and configure products to suit their application. amGard is a heavy duty interlocking range that provides both safety and security by controlling access to dangerous machinery and safeguarding personnel. A variety of actuators and adaptable mounting arrangements helps sustain a long life cycle and minimizes downtime. www.fortressinterlocks.com.

FAN GUARD SAFETY SCALE CHECKS OPENINGS FOR COMPLIANCE
Danray Products LLC (Rockford, IL) introduced its new fan guard safety scale that checks the openings in fan guards for compliance with OSHA 29 CFR 1910.212(a)(5), which states: “When the periphery of the blades of a fan is less than seven ft above the floor or working level, the blades shall be guarded. The guard shall have openings no larger than ½ in.”

The blue-colored scale is made out of durable 0.090 in thick anodized aluminum and has a 0.25 in diameter hole. It has easy-to-read text and graphics that will not rub or scratch off and is about the size of a credit card, which makes it convenient to carry and store. www.danrayproducts.com

MACHINE AND OPERATOR PROTECTION
Hennig, Inc. (Machesney Park, IL) has provided perfect machine protection for over 50 years and now offers many new products that protect valuable machines and the people who operate them. Innovations and breakthroughs in protective coverings and chip/coolant management systems have propelled Hennig into a leading role in the metalworking industry. State-of-the-art systems from Hennig have set the standard for safeguarding machines and components, improving the life of precision machines and accuracy of output.

Hennig solutions can be custom-tailored to any machine, workspace or performance requirement, so they perform precisely as needed to protect your machines.  Hennig solutions are supported worldwide with a global sales and service network, which includes facilities and partnerships throughout the industrialized world for fast access to replacement parts and services.

A new brochure provides an overview of Telescopic Steel Covers, Chip Conveyors, Chip Disc Filtration (CDF) Systems, Bellows, Flex-Protect Systems, Machine Enclosures, Roll-up & Flexible Apron Covers, Wiper Systems, Telescopic Springs, Repair & Refurbishing Services and Contract Manufacturing Services.

Hennig has designed and producied custom machine protection and chip/coolant management products for state-of-the-art machine tools for over 50 years that are designed to protect against corrosion, debris and common workplace contaminants. www.hennigworldwide.com

SAFETY SIGN FOR POWER PRESSES
Danray Products LLC also released its new, one-of-a-kind safety sign for power presses that informs of hazards created by moving slides and dies. This U.S. Copyright Office–registered safety sign addresses the main safety hazards created by moving slides and dies on power presses. It can be applied to mechanical, hydraulic, direct-drive (servo), and pneumatic power presses. This adhesive sign is available in two sizes: 5 in W x 6 in H and 8¾ in W x 10½ in H.

This safety sign has been designed to comply with OSHA 29 CFR 1910.145 and the ANSI Z535 standards for the design, application, and use of signs, colors, and symbols for accident prevention. www.danrayproducts.com