Kruben Bennie, Schneider Electric's product manager, machine and low end control, is of the opinion that innovation in the control and signalling sector is taking a back seat as component manufacturing companies try to survive by competing only on price. He feels that with price emerging as a chief driving factor in choice, the critical part that control and signalling components play in industry is not getting the attention it deserves - particularly when it comes to operator safety.
Says Bennie: "Innovation is well and good - but continual enhancements to reliability and quality are preferable and essential when we look at how even the most basic control and signalling equipment can affect operator safety. If there has to be trade-off between the two, safety comes first."
"Demanding environments, such as chemicals, extreme temperatures and pressures, water, fire and explosion, can impact on devices used in these processes. Taking the time to investigate which components are best suited for particular environmental conditions saves time and money in the long run and also relieves troubleshooting, downtime and maintenance issues."
"Over and above ruggedness, important also are simplicity of installation and flexibility. Schneider Electric has addressed this through a complete offer containing the width to encompass from light- to heavy-duty applications".
Schneider Electric's pilot lights, pushbuttons and selector switches are available in sizes 8-16, 22 and 30 mm, and in various configurations. The range includes plastic, metal and affordable single-piece units. Assembly is through an ingenious interlocking system. As the devices cannot be dismantled from the front, their integrity ensures maximum safety for people and installations.
Also available from Schneider are Harmony components for hoisting applications. These components include control handles and pendant stations. The dust and damp protected component sub-assemblies enable the construction of many different configurations and are designed for fitting into portable controller stations or controller desks.
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