SICK introduces the IN4000, the UK’s first inductive safety sensor system and an ideal alternative to mechanical limit or detection switches in harsh industrial environments.

The IN4000 system consists of a relay output unit and up to 10 sensors, which can be connected in series or parallel for the simplest or most complex machine safety applications.

The inductive sensor technology allows the metal fabric of the machine to act as an “actuator” via a special teach function that also guards against deliberate manipulation.

When used on machinery guarded by a safety PLC, a relay unit is not required, as the IN4000 sensors’ signals are complaint with IEC 61331-2 and so can be linked direct to the PLC’s I/O rack.

The IN4000 range offers three NO contacts, two NC relays and integrated external relay monitoring for maximum flexibility. Each sensor has a built-in LED to provide an immediate visual indication of the unit’s status.

The complete IN4000 system, relay units and individual sensors are all certified to the highest level (Category 4) of EN 954-1, which requires that the safety function continues to provide protection for the operator even if faults develop in the control system.

Because no mechanical actuator is required, IN4000 inductive sensors are immune to vibration and impact, unaffected by dirt, suffer no wear and tear in use and will tolerate some misalignment, making them easy to install and highly reliable in operation - even in the most arduous conditions.