Numerous industrial processes have an inherently risky potential. Special pressure switches support the safety of individuals and the surroundings. Example: the vulcanisation of tyres for automobiles. To monitor this process, leading manufacturers utilize the model MW switch from WIKA with SIL 2 rating.
Why such a pressure switch is necessary for safety in this application is shown by a look at the process: In a steam-heated press, the raw tyre is first filled up with hot water to adapt it to the inner form of the press. Then, under the influence of pressures of around 24 bar and temperatures of 150 �C to 170 �C the vulcanisation itself occurs. In the process, with the addition of sulphur, the tyre is given its elastic and robust final shape. However, when there is no appropriate monitoring, overpressure may appear in the curing press unexpectedly. If this happens, the danger of boiling hot steam escaping is high. To rule out this occurrence, tyre manufacturers generally use pressure switches to ensure the safety of the process.
The model MW pressure switch with SIL 2 rating has been developed for safety-relevant applications, such as for example tyre vulcanisation.
Control of overpressure and interlocking
The instruments fulfil two functions simultaneously: On the main one hand, they intervene in the event of overpressure, and alternatively, they control the inner interlocking of the curing press to avoid it from opening accidentally before vulcanisation is completed. The procedure is finished as soon as a preset pressure value is reached. Then the pressure switch lifts the lock. This mechanism is constantly in motion in high-throughput automatic tyre production. Therefore, the switch is continually being loaded. Consequently, it must have a long service life at this critical point. Premature wear would otherwise result in an unscheduled shutdown of the plant.
Lowest failure probability
Tyre manufacturers therefore require pressure switches with distinct robustness and safety. Because of this, WIKA has developed the model MW pressure switch for safety-relevant applications such as vulcanisation. As a mechanical device, the model MW will switch without dependence on any energy supply, a significant safety aspect. A SIL 2 rating relative to the IEC 61508 standard certifies the functional safety of the pressure switch. Its operational safety can be SIL 2 certified. Thus, the expected service life is approximately 90,000 pressure cycles and switching operations. The chance assessment of the model MW in accordance with EN ISO 13849-1 by an external certification resulted in the best performance level ?PL e? (lowest failure probability).
Microswitches, also with argon filling
All model MW instruments have microswitches that switch electrical loads around 250V AC, 20 A directly. For certain applications, microswitch versions with argon filling provide an additional boost to safety and service life. The gas reduces oxidation, protects against corrosion and prevents sparking. For low switching powers, for instance in PLC applications, there exists a variant with gold-plated contacts.
Retrofitting existing plants
The model MW safety pressure switches from WIKA may also be suitable for retrofitting. In the case of tyre vulcanisation, they are able to therefore help to adapt existing installations to the specifications of DIN EN 16474, which was amended in 2015. Audacity tyre manufacturers to use new machines with improved safety technology. Six-figure is supposed to prevent risks of danger in the long term.
Note
Vicious on the model MW pressure switches and their safety features can be found on the WIKA website. Assuming you have any questions, your contact will gladly assist you to.
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