GEMCO Blender Upgrades: Laser Scanning Technology

GEMCO® is introducing Personal Protection Barriers – Laser Scanning Technology that helps enhance industrial safety. This innovative system replaces traditional barriers with a network of lasers, creating a virtual safety zone that prioritizes operator safety without sacrificing efficiency. Let’s explore how laser scanning technology is transforming the future of blending.

• 

• 

• 

Traditional Safety Measures: Limitations and Drawbacks

Safety should always be the top priority in any manufacturing setting, particularly when it comes to industrial blending processes. Ensuring that all necessary measures are taken to maintain a safe and secure work environment for everyone involved is crucial.

Physical barriers like fences and railings are frequently used in conventional safety measures. While effective, these solutions can create a cluttered workspace, impede visibility, and hinder operator movement. Additionally, accidental tripping of safety interlocks can lead to unnecessary production stoppages.

Advanced Safety

GEMCO® recognizes the complexities of adhering to personnel protection specifications set by regulatory bodies like OSHA, CE, or CSA. Traditional safeguarding methods require frequent adjustments to fit the unique layout and processing environment of each machine, especially for tumble blenders and dryers. This can be a time-consuming and cumbersome process.

That’s why GEMCO® selected OMRON to develop a solution: Personal Protection Barriers featuring Laser Scanning Technology. This innovative system eliminates the need for bulky fences. Instead, it utilizes a network of OMRON lasers to create a virtual safety zone. This zone can be precisely programmed to monitor specific areas or encompass the entire blending machine. This offers several key advantages:

• Easy Installation and Customization: Laser barriers are simple to set up and adjust to fit your specific needs.
• Precise Area Monitoring: Laser scanners can be programmed to monitor specific areas or entire zones around the blending equipment.
• Seamless Integration: The system integrates seamlessly with your existing control system, eliminating the need for a separate PLC.
• Improved Visibility and Accessibility: Eliminating physical barriers creates a more open and accessible workspace, enhancing operator maneuverability.
• Real-Time Detection: The system instantly detects if an operator enters the restricted zone, triggering an immediate halt to the blending process.
• Warning: A warning zone precedes the restricted zone, alerting operators when they’re approaching a potential hazard. This reduces unnecessary production stoppages.

The GEMCO® Laser Scanning system goes beyond basic safety measures. The warning zone provides operators with valuable feedback, promoting situational awareness and encouraging safe work practices. The system also integrates alarms and supervisory key switches for added security.