Background

In applications where operators have access to moving parts – such as along conveyor belts – physical guarding is often not practical. In such cases, rope pull safety switch offer an effective solution to provide continuous emergency stop functionality over long distances.

The Safeline 4 by Mechan Controls is designed for this use case and is available in two versions:

• Diecast aluminium housing for standard industrial environments
• 316 stainless steel housing for corrosive, wet, or hygienic applications

Technical application example: Packaging line without physical guarding

In a packaging line within a food production environment, a conveyor belt of approximately 60 meters needed to be secured with a continuous emergency stop system. Due to limited access space, a pull-wire switch was installed on each side.

Application requirements:

• Activation from any point along the belt
• Visual monitoring of cable tension
• Avoidance of nuisance trips due to thermal expansion
• Manual reset required after activation
• Compliance with EN ISO 13850 and IEC 60947-5-5

Technical specifications

Installation considerations

• Cable tension: Visual indicators simplify adjustment; correct tension prevents false tripping.
• Tension set: Required at both cable ends for proper setup.
• Reset: Manual rotary knob with positive latching required after trip.
• Housing selection:
  • Diecast: For dry, non-corrosive environments
  • 316 stainless steel: Recommended for wet, corrosive, or hygienic zones

Practical benefits

• Positively operated contacts for high reliability
• Independent of external power supply for emergency function
• Clear feedback on trip and reset
• Mechanically robust, vibration-resistant

Conclusion

Safeline 4 cable pull switches provide a robust, low-maintenance, standards-compliant solution for emergency stop functionality on conveyor systems. Their material options allow for use in both industrial and hygienic environments.