Numerous industrial processes have an inherently high risk potential. Special pressure switches support the safety of individuals and the surroundings. Example: the vulcanisation of tyres for automobiles. To monitor this technique, leading manufacturers utilize the model MW switch from WIKA with SIL 2 rating.
Why this type of pressure switch is essential for safety in this application is shown by a look at the process: In a steam-heated press, the raw tyre is first filled with warm water to adapt it to the inner shape of the press. Then, consuming pressures of around 24 bar and temperatures of 150 �C to 170 �C the vulcanisation itself occurs. Along the way, by adding sulphur, the tyre is given its elastic and robust final shape. However, if there is no appropriate monitoring, overpressure can occur in the curing press unexpectedly. If this happens, the danger of boiling hot steam escaping is high. To rule out such an occurrence, tyre manufacturers generally use pressure switches to guarantee the safety of the procedure.
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 at once: On the one hand, they intervene in the event of overpressure, and alternatively, they control the inner interlocking of the curing press to prevent it from opening accidentally before vulcanisation is completed. The procedure is finished when 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. Because of this, the switch is continually being loaded. Consequently, it will need to have an extended service life as of this critical point. Emerging would otherwise lead to an unscheduled shutdown of the plant.
Lowest failure probability
Tyre manufacturers therefore require pressure switches with distinct robustness and safety. That is why, WIKA has developed the model MW pressure switch for safety-relevant applications such as for example vulcanisation. As a mechanical device, the model MW will switch without dependence on any energy supply, an important safety aspect. A SIL 2 rating in accordance with the IEC 61508 standard certifies the functional safety of the pressure switch. Its operational safety is also SIL 2 certified. Thus, the expected service life is about 90,000 pressure cycles and switching operations. The risk assessment of the model MW in accordance with EN ISO 13849-1 by an external certification led to the best performance level ?PL e? (lowest failure probability).
Microswitches, also with argon filling
All model MW instruments have microswitches that switch electrical loads up to 250V AC, 20 A directly. For certain applications, microswitch versions with argon filling offer an additional boost to safety and service life. The gas reduces oxidation, protects against corrosion and prevents sparking. For low switching powers, for example in PLC applications, there is a variant with gold-plated contacts.
Retrofitting existing plants
The model MW safety pressure switches from WIKA are also suitable for retrofitting. In the case of tyre vulcanisation, they can therefore help to adapt existing installations to the specifications of DIN EN 16474, which was amended in 2015. This standard obliges tyre manufacturers to use all new machines with improved safety technology. The regulation is intended to prevent risks of danger in the long term.
Note
More info on the model MW pressure switches and their safety features are available on the WIKA website. When you have any questions, your contact will gladly help you.
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