Light Curtain

The purpose of a light curtain is to protect the operator from making contact with any part of the press brake that could potentially cause harm during operation. When properly implemented, a light curtain stops the press brake abruptly before the operator can sustain any injuries. There are numerous regulations in place to ensure the effectiveness of light curtains that determine whether or not a system passes inspection. It’s essential to adhere to all of the regulations that coincide with the type of press brake system you operate. Light Curtains also make it possible to use a foot switch instead of a two hand push button station.

How A Light Curtain Provides Press Brake Safety

A light curtain is a type of presence sensing device that doesn’t reduce productivity or delay work because it uses no restraints, straps, or physical barriers. It functions by way of one or more transmitters and receivers. If the stream of light or lasers is broken and the receiver no longer detects it, the machine ceases immediately.

Floating Beams

Many light curtains have a floating beam option, individual or multiple infrared beams may be broken by the part being formed. Some light curtains allow up to eight inches of beams to be floated.

Channel Select or Canceling

Beam canceling is an option on some light curtains. Canceling beams allows you to blank out or ignore a given number of the beams. It is a very useful option if used properly and safely. Some light curtains can be programmed to selectively cancel a given number of beams during the forming operation.

The Advantages of a Light Curtain

Light curtains can be highly effective if used properly. Although the initial cost of a light curtain press brake safety system may be much higher than using restraints, physical barriers, and two-handed manual start systems; they allow the production process to operate at full capacity. The savings in manpower time and production speed more than balance the initial cost of a light curtain system.

Functions Must Be Programmed According to OSHA

OSHA stipulates exactly how presence sensing devices of all types must be used in order to pass minimum safety regulations. OSHA standards and regulations include adequate safe distance for the machine they’re used with, software programming, and more.