This text is machine translated.
Useful information about emergency off switches
Yellow housing, red button – this is the classic design of an emergency off switch. Switches with emergency-off function are used in combination with machines, systems and partly vehicles. In our guide you will find out what is important when buying emergency stop switches and what variations are available.
-
Emergency stop switches or emergency stop buttons – the differences
-
Overview of emergency stop actuators
-
Important for the purchase of emergency off switches
-
Our practical tip: Safety first
-
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about Emergency Stop buttons
Emergency stop switches or emergency stop buttons – the differences
Red button on a yellow background – you have certainly noticed such switches in everyday life. The color scheme ensures that the switch can be quickly located in case of an emergency. This can save lives in case of an emergency, because an emergency stop switch can be used to switch off a machine immediately in emergency situations. This means that devices are disconnected from the power supply by means of the emergency stop function, in order to protect themselves against electric shocks, for example. In addition to emergency stop switches, there are emergency stop devices or emergency stop control devices. If an emergency stop command is issued, the drive of the machine is stopped. It is stopped, but not automatically switched off. Thus, the supply of electricity is not affected.
Sometimes the terms are used interchangeably, even in official guidelines. This is due to a faulty translation from English, where emergency stop is often transmitted as an emergency stop. In fact, emergency stop stands for emergency stop, while emergency switching off corresponds to the emergency stop. However, the renewed standard "Safety of machinery – emergency stop – design principles" contains an updated terminology. The term emergency stop is used throughout.
Overview of emergency stop actuators
In terms of construction, emergency stop switches are often implemented as pushbuttons or impact switches. In addition to mushroom buttons, cable pull emergency switches are also used. In case of an emergency, the button must be able to be operated without any problems and must also withstand strong blows. As soon as the emergency stop switch has been actuated in the event of danger, it locks and can only be unlocked again on command. For example, it needs to be pulled out, rotated, or moved to its original position using a key to return a device to its operating state. The machine guideline contains the exact requirements for emergency stop and emergency stop, including EN ISO 13850.
Emergency stop and emergency stop devices can be divided into stop categories. With stop category 0, the power supply is immediately disconnected. In stop category 1, parts of the machine (such as the drive elements) are only stopped before the power supply is interrupted.
Important for the purchase of emergency off switches
When purchasing emergency stop switches, you should pay particular attention to certifications and underlying standards that are important for the intended use. Other key purchase criteria include:
Design : Emergency stop devices and emergency stop switches are manufactured in various versions. Some models are made with, some without protective collars. A protective collar helps to prevent accidental activation of the switch. It is important that the partial border does not interfere with the triggering mechanism. It must still be possible to press the emergency stop button with fingers, hand bales, palms, hand edge and fist. Since emergency switches are sometimes operated with heavy impacts when exposed to danger, they should also be made of robust materials.
Release type : how should the emergency stop switch be unlocked in future? For example, pull and turn release (with or without key) are possible.
Degree of protection : a special degree of protection is required in some areas. Make sure that the emergency stop switch meets the requirements when you buy it.
Printing : depending on the application, the printed lettering plays an important role. It is crucial that all people immediately recognize what the switch is there for in order to take action and press the button.
Contact type : here too different versions are offered, with one, two or three NC contacts and with or without locks.
Switching voltage : depending on the intended purpose, you should check whether the switching voltage of the favorite models is suitable.
Temperature range : When very low, high or fluctuating temperatures are present at the machine's place of use, there are special requirements for the material.
Installation opening : for easy installation and installation, suitable connections and a suitable diameter of the installation opening are required.
Other features : in some areas, in addition to main switches, several emergency stop buttons or other modular control devices with an emergency stop function are required. Check that all required items are compatible. In darkened rooms, emergency stop switches may be important, which are illuminated and thus easily visible at all times.
Our practical tip: Safety first
Depending on the risk assessment and the category, additional safety detection devices are required in addition to emergency stops to prevent damage to persons in the event of an emergency. General safety precautions also include professional personnel training, safety training and appropriate protective equipment or work clothing that can save lives in an emergency. In order for any person present to be able to switch off or stop a device in a hazardous situation, emergency switches should be installed in such a way that they can be accessed by anyone without any problems.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about Emergency Stop buttons
Which manufacturers offer emergency stop switches?
You can find emergency switches in our online shop of many different brands, including Schlegel, Schneider Electric, Siemens, Deca or BACO.
Why is an emergency switch installed on motorcycles?
Motorcyclists may also be familiar with this rocker switch as a killer switch or kill switch. The emergency stop button is located on the right-hand side of the handlebar and is used to stop the ignition and fuel supply. For models built in 2006 with Euro 3 and electronic fuel injection, this happens automatically when the motorcycle is at a certain angle of inclination. You can also find such safety technology in cars. It is triggered when an impact occurs and the airbag is activated.
Can emergency switches be retrofitted?
Whether and how you need to equip older equipment with emergency switches depends on the current machine guidelines. Many devices can be retrofitted with appropriate know-how and equipment with emergency switches.