Dold & IDEM Trapped Key Safety Interlock Switches from AutomationDirect

AutomationDirect offers rotary trapped key interlock switches from IDEM, and push-pull trapped key interlock switches from Dold for machine access control in safe-rated applications. These simple systems allow use of a machine enable the key to disable the machine prior to allowing an access point to open. Both brands offer a partial body or a whole body protection level. For both systems, if the access point is open, the enable key cannot be removed and the machine cannot be restarted. Once the access point is shut, the key can be removed, re-installed into the operator console, and the machine can resume operation. In the full body system, the access point has a relay key that the user can take with them into the machine. Even if the access point is then closed by someone without the relay key, the enable key cannot be removed and the machine cannot be restarted. AutomationDirect also offers this system with multiple access point variants that utilize a transfer station for the machine enable key. The machine enable key cannot be removed from the transfer station until the keys from all access points have been returned. This is ideal for a system with multiple doors, windows, or other ingress points. As a further feature, both systems allow use of a solenoid or non-solenoid version of the machine enable key station. With a non-solenoid version, the key can be removed at any time and disables the machine immediately. In some applications, however, there can be residual motion or stored energy. The solenoid version of the enable key station will prevent the key from being removed and the machine from being disabled until the safety system has ensured all residual energy has been dissipated and dropped control power to the solenoid. Other than the solenoid and safety contacts on the enable key station the system is entirely mechanical. Whether your enable station and your access point are 3 feet apart, 3 rooms apart, or 3 buildings apart, the system requires no additional wiring or hardware. This is a huge advantage over traditional magnetic or RFID door switch systems and gives you installation flexibility that other systems just can’t match. Further, the rotary trapped key system is rated up to PLe/Category 3, and the push-pull trapped key system is rated to PLe/Category 4 to ensure that whatever your safety system rating is, AutomationDirect has a trapped key system that will work for you! Regardless of the machine application safety rating, trapped key interlock switches from AutomationDirect are your convenient solution to safe machine access. To contact our award-winning technical support, call this number or click here. For more trapped key videos click here. To see more information on rotary trapped key interlock switches click here. To subscribe to our YouTube channel click here.