Machine framing & mechanical safety systems combine for reduced TCO

Of the many possibilities to fulfil this requirement, OEMs and system integrators are increasingly combining machine framing, automation and mechanical machine safety components from the same supplier. This approach can significantly contribute to lower total cost of ownership (TCO) through reduced design effort, faster time to market and simplified machine assembly. Gains are also made where the machine designer can fulfil all of the structural and safety related aspects of the machine without compromising the time and effort needed to develop and optimise the specialised machine processes required to meet the operational specification, work handling and other performance related issues.

MiniTec UK produces its Profile System machine framing and machine building system as well as its SaveGuard safety system which includes components that are specifically aimed at safety fence and guard applications. Both product ranges are based on extruded aluminium profile sections in a wide choice of sectional sizes and are complemented with a comprehensive selection of pre-assembled elements and ancillary ‘building block’ components in addition to a unique line of CAD tools that make their design and procurement straightforward.

Fast & economic

Profile System includes automation components from pre-assembled lifting actuators, drive units and control systems to simple but very necessary items such as handles, hinges, locks, wheels and feet. Together they provide a fast and economic way to build complete machines frames or workstations for a wide variety of applications for production, research and test. MiniTec’s SaveGuard safety system includes components that build into individual protection cells, machine perimeter safety fences, fixed and adjustable barriers, sliding doors, interlocking machine guards and other separating safety installations. Components include extruded posts and fastening systems that form doors or screens with wire mesh, aluminium, steel or polycarbonate panels. Special requirements such as noise reducing insulation or protection against corrosive materials can also be supplied.

Both of these systems integrate with MiniTec's CAD tools to allow quick and easy development of machine frame and safety system design using the free of charge iCAD Assembler software. This is available as an on-line tool at www.minitec.co.uk requiring no specialist CAD knowledge or as a downloadable standalone version that may be integrated with all common CAD packages. The 3D software provides design visualisation with view rotation etc. as well as parts lists for costing, planning and purchasing.

Whilst both CAD design alternatives allow designers the ability to save costs by quickly locating and designing these components for their own machine building programmes, MiniTec also offers a design and on-site installation service that can include working closely with the customer on specific safety issues.

Safety standards

MiniTec UK regularly supplies machine frame and safety guarding systems in line with machine safety standards from the all-encompassing ISO 12100, Parts 1 & 2 (Safety of Machinery) to specific sections of standards that address individual areas of human interaction such as guard interlocks, fixed and moveable guards, minimum gaps for fencing, speeds of machinery and more. This includes requirements for electrical safety related equipment for machines. SaveGuard in particular addresses the requirements contained in ISO 10218-1:2006 (Robots for industrial environments – Safety Requirements). Specifications and installation drawings that form the basis of any guarding installation approval are also supplied for risk assessment and as an important part of the technical file that helps to contribute to CE marking. MiniTec UK also work with suppliers of electronic safety control systems to provide the best combination of mechanical and electronic controls for overall machine safety.

Further benefits of Profile System and SaveGuard include its ability to suit changing requirements both during and after installation to cater for unforeseen problems and also as a scalable solution that can easily adapt to machine extensions and improvements. In addition, the aesthetic and ergonomic lines of the range make a strong contribution to the work environment and employee welfare as well as present a strong image for manufacturers and organisations that encourage shareholders, customers and suppliers to visit their production, test and research sites.