Safety devices
Safety PLC integration
Dedicated safety-rated PLC logic that ties together e-stops, guarding devices, and robot safe I/O into a certified safety function.
A safety PLC runs logic on redundant, self-checking hardware certified to standards like ISO 13849 or IEC 61508, separate from the general machine control PLC. It reads inputs from e-stops, light curtains, scanners, and door switches, then drives outputs that cut power or issue stop commands to the robot and other equipment in the cell.
Most modern robot controllers provide a dedicated safe I/O interface, and some support a safety fieldbus protocol like CIP Safety, that connects directly to the safety PLC rather than passing safety signals through standard I/O points.
Designing the safety logic correctly requires a documented risk assessment that maps out which stop categories and response times apply to each hazard in the cell, since the PLC logic follows from that analysis.
Related integrations
Common questions
- What does Safety PLC integration do?
- Dedicated safety-rated PLC logic that ties together e-stops, guarding devices, and robot safe I/O into a certified safety function.
- What does Safety PLC integration work with?
- It works with Pilz safety controller, CIP Safety fieldbus, Allen-Bradley ControlLogix, Siemens S7-1500.
- What should I watch for with Safety PLC integration?
- Must follow a documented risk assessment, not built ad hoc. Requires certified safety PLC hardware, not standard PLC logic. Validation and periodic testing are required after commissioning.