Bernstein is driving forward the use of inductive sensors in safety-critical applications. The family-owned company has expanded its product portfolio to include an innovative group of inductive sensors that have been specially developed for use in safety concepts.
Setting new standards for machine monitoring and safety, they offer two antivalent output signals (normally open and normally closed), which are monitored and compared by the safety controller. If the signals are no longer opposing, the fault is recognized and the system is safely switched off. With a suitable safety controller that recognizes sensor faults before the next request to the safety function and in compliance with the BMA, they can be used in safety-relevant applications up to PL d/SIL.
Developed in close co-operation with one of their customers and in response to stricter product standards, the sensors are the answer to a specific market requirement, notes the company. Their use significantly reduces the wiring effort and acquisition costs, while the complete system becomes simpler and less complex. Conventional solutions typically require two standard sensors for redundant detection.
The applications for the new inductive sensors are diverse and range from escalators, where they are used to monitor the main drive chain and the handrail, to lifts, loading cranes and stationary presses. They offer a reliable solution for reliably detecting the position of metal objects throughout the mechanical engineering sector.
Headquartered in Porta Westfalica in northcentral Germany east of Hanover, Bernstein AG currently employs around 600 people in 10 countries and, as an internationally active family business, is now managed by the third generation of the Bernstein family, Achim and Nicole Bernstein.
The product portfolio ranges from switches, sensors and enclosures, support systems and operating terminals to system solutions for operating and safeguarding entire machines and systems. There are four production sites worldwide in Germany, China and Hungary as well as eight subsidiaries. See www.bernstein.eu.
