Machinery guarding: the importance of safety

>While camera based and other optoelectronic safety technologies are now viable options for some machinery and perimeter guarding applications, for a huge majority there is still little to beat a physical safeguard. Whether for guarding enclosures, machinery and robot cells, or for perimeter guarding of hazardous areas, physical safeguards offer the dual function of keeping personnel out of dangerous environments, and keeping potentially hazardous, fast moving parts and components in.

>The two are equally important. Keeping operators a safe distance from high speed, high inertia machinery and robots is vital on the plant floor to prevent injury. But equally, if a machine breaks down catastrophically, or if a fast moving robot is stopped dead in an emergency situation, there is a very real risk of flying objects being flung out into the wider production area. Only a physical guard is going to keep those objects contained.

>A good option for physical guarding is to construct modular perimeter guards built around aluminium profiles. Established in 1997, initially specialising in precision engineering, KJN has a wealth of experience in supplying extruded aluminium profile, accessories and associated products for guarding to customers across all sectors of industry, including automotive, medical, aerospace, military, food, pharmaceuticals and electronics.

>The modular system allows guards of almost any shape and size to be constructed to suit specific requirements, while the versatility of the system means guards can be easily altered or modified over time. The design also enables various types of panels - mesh, polycarb, foamex, aluminium, glass, etc - to be mounted into the slot. Doors can also be produced, in swing, sliding and counterbalanced formats.

>All of the profiles have T grooves for easy assembly. The 'endless slot' design saves time and minimises risk during assembly. A full range of accessories and connections is also available, all designed as user-friendly joints; this shortens assembly times because no time-consuming grinding or painting is required. As part of its service, KJN can also supply end finishes to your profile, with milling, drilling or threaded holes.

>The wide range of profiles from KJN extends the range of application possibilities beyond machine and perimeter guarding and into other production areas. Workbenches, production cells, racking and cupboards can all be quickly and cost-effectively assembled or purchased as ready-made products, complete with glazing accessories, feet and wheels, manual movement systems and optional extra panels.

>KJN believes in the philosophy of having stock in-house, understanding that clients' are often working to tight deadlines. KJN also offers a full in-house design service, and backs this up with full in-house engineering facilities to design, build, install, service and support bespoke framework solutions, offering a complete solution in aluminium profiles.