Overview of Euchner Unicode Actuator Features Euchner Unicode actuators are precision-engineered safety components designed for demanding machine guarding applications. Built around transponder-coded technology, these actuators…
Overview of Euchner Unicode Actuator Features
Euchner Unicode actuators are precision-engineered safety components designed for demanding machine guarding applications. Built around transponder-coded technology, these actuators offer a high safety class rating and are suitable for environments requiring features like reverse polarity protection, high degrees of protection (up to IP67), and stable performance across wide ambient temperature ranges. They operate effectively across wide ambient temperature ranges and withstand mechanical stress in high-vibration environments. Their compatibility with M12 plug connectors, optional additional actuators, and flexible connection types makes them ideal for sectors like manufacturing, logistics, food processing, and pharmaceuticals.
Transponder-coded Safety Switches
Transponder-coded safety switches from Euchner use RFID-based coding to ensure that only uniquely paired actuators can trigger safety functions. They comply with EN ISO 14119 and feature:
- Integrated evaluation electronics for seamless PLC or safety relay integration
- Built-in safety outputs to facilitate secure, tamper-proof communication
- Series connection support for simplifying installations
- Adjustable discrepancy time to track operational inconsistencies
These switches ensure safety in machines with high vibration resistance and are vital in applications such as robotic enclosures, safety doors, and protective hoods, where tamper resistance and efficiency of protection are required.
Non-contact Safety Switches
Non-contact operation significantly reduces mechanical wear and enhances reliability in high-cycle systems. Euchner Unicode switches offer:
- Contactless actuation via transponder logic
- Compliance with advanced protection requirements to prevent false tripping
- Short circuit-proof and reverse polarity-protected output types
With excellent vibration resistance and tolerance for high degrees of contamination, these switches also offer cable with plug connector support, flexible cable exit options, and a variety of M12 connector formats.
Unicode Evaluation for Security
Unicode evaluation ensures each actuator has a unique digital identity. This enhances operational security and traceability, especially in applications requiring regulated access. Features include:
- Rapid response to hazardous situations (short risk time)
- Full compliance with EN ISO 60947-5-3 and 60947-5-2 standards
- Expandable logic functionality through function expansion modules
- Detailed safety information documentation available in multiple languages, including Italian (Informazioni sulla sicurezza) and Croatian (Sigurnosne informacije)
These actuators meet strict international safety requirements and improve system resilience against misuse.
Emergency Stop Functions
Certain Euchner Unicode models incorporate integrated Emergency Stop (E-Stop) functions, providing fast machine shutdown capability. Key highlights:
- Category 4 / PL e compliance
- Output types that safely disconnect power in emergencies
- Closed-circuit current principle for automatic fault detection
- LED indicators to display operational status
They support function expansion and relay integration for systems requiring highly efficient protection and fault tolerance.
Escape Release Mechanisms
In hazardous zones with locking mechanisms, Euchner’s escape release systems ensure personnel safety. Configurations include:
- Rear-side manual release options
- Escape release bolts designed for use with guard locking switches
- Compatibility with both top-hinged and bottom-hinged doors
- Customization using levers or wire front release for ergonomic compliance
Escape release solutions integrate auxiliary release functionality and comply with door-actuator standards.
Applications in Industrial Settings
Diverse Industrial Applications
Euchner Unicode actuators are widely used in sectors such as:
- Automotive production lines
- Pharmaceutical manufacturing cleanrooms
- Food and beverage conveyor systems
- Packaging automation and CNC enclosures
With strong IP ratings, reverse polarity protection, and rugged housings, these actuators provide safe control in both clean and contaminated environments.
Safeguarding Equipment
To protect capital-intensive equipment, Euchner actuators integrate:
- Safety outputs capable of controlling motors or disabling systems
- Feedback loops, LED indicators, and monitoring outputs for real-time diagnostics
- Reverse polarity and short-circuit protection to guard sensitive electronics
- Durable die-cast aluminum and zinc switch housing and connection material
They are well-suited to high-duty cycle operations, such as CNC machining or packaging.
Protecting Personnel
Personnel protection is a top priority, with features like:
- Secure guard locking with control and monitoring of guard locking status
- Escape release and manual release for emergency egress
- Additional actuators and actuator redundancy options for two-door safety
- Contamination-resistant designs suitable for areas with dust or oil
These switches are proven in hazardous access points and high-speed lines.
Integration in Automated Environments
Unicode actuators integrate easily into automation setups:
- M12 plug connectors in 5-pin, 8-pin, angled and straight formats
- Support for IO-Link evaluation, monitoring output, and internal monitoring
- Flexible cable exit directions and compatibility with angled plug connectors
- Switches in switch chains, modular panels, and compact version assemblies
Supporting high-speed feedback, these actuators enable unintentional closing detection, monitoring suitable integration, and engineering for connection.
Installation and Maintenance
Dimensional Drawings
Detailed dimensional drawings include:
- Actuator housing dimensions and mounting hole patterns
- Bolt position and spacing for guard locking
- Clearance zones for actuator bolts, mounting plates EMP-B2, and EMP-L
They ensure actuator placement suits B1/B2 hinge standards.
Connector Assignments
Connector assignments support:
- Output voltage and signal integrity via short circuit-proof layouts
- Union nut locking and core color consistency
- Plug-in compatibility with all major safety relay models
Assignments conform to closed-circuit current principles and connector M12 designations.
Workspace and Connection Values
Electrical parameters include:
- Power supply: 24V nominal, with wide operating ranges
- Power consumption and current consumption efficiency
- Impulse voltage, insulation voltage, and DC-13 utilization category
- Cable diameter allowances for rugged installation
Output types support p-switching and closed-loop diagnostics.
Accessories and Ordering Data
Accessory Options
Euchner offers:
- Hinged actuators for doors and swing doors
- Escape release levers, aluminum bolts, and plastic bolts
- Safety screws and mounting plates for rail mounting
- Covers, handles, and actuator for safety switch enhancements
These accessories improve install type flexibility and duty cycle efficiency.
Ordering Information
Order codes identify:
- Unicode vs Multicode actuator models
- Connector format (e.g., C-M12F05), cable sheath color, and plug connector series
- Additional device options like auxiliary release or monitoring output
Ordering documents include device for reading process and multilingual safety labels.
Supporting Documentation
Installation Guides
Installation documents outline:
- Direct connection, rail mounting, and angled plug connector fitting
- Engineering notes for connection and automatic return of actuators
- Application examples and combination with cover recommendations
Maintenance Manuals
Maintenance content includes:
- Interval checks for short-circuit-proof output voltage consistency
- Guard position validation and feedback loop continuity
- Risk time calibration and monitoring output response
This ensures compliance with EN standards and long-term actuator reliability.
