2012 POY Finalists: Safety

Finalists in the Safety category for the Plant Engineering 2012 Product of the Year competition.

By Brittany Merchut November 19, 2012

GE AK-1/2-50 remote racking system

CBS ArcSafe offers a single application Remote Racking System for GE AK-1/2-50 extraction-style power circuit breakers. The RRS-3 AK-1/2-50 system enables operators to install and remove GE AK-1/2-50 equipment from up to 150 ft away with the wireless remote control. Installation of the RRS-3 AK-1/2-50 requires no modifications to the breaker or switchgear. This lightweight and portable system is ideal for hard-to-access areas including mezzanines, basements, and other areas with space restrictions.

CBS ArcSafe Inc


Square D VR remote racking system

CBS ArcSafe has developed a single application Remote Racking System for Square D VR-style power circuit breakers. The RRS-3 VR system allows operators to install and remove this style of circuit breaker from up to 150 ft away using a wireless remote control. The user-friendly RRS-3 VR requires no modifications to the breaker or switchgear and may be installed by one person in a matter of seconds. This lightweight and portable system is ideal for mezzanines, basements. and other locations with space restrictions.

CBS ArcSafe Inc.


Rotary remote racking system

The CBS ArcSafe RRS-4 Remote Racking System is an upgraded version of the RRS-1 for rotary-style power circuit breakers. The RRS-4 boasts many of the same components as the RRS-1 unit, making it portable, adjustable, and user-friendly. The RRS-4 is operated using a dual mode, source programmable, PLC-based control system. This PLC-based control system offers two operating modes: CCM Mode, allowing users to monitor the drive motor running current, and SEK Mode, allowing users to monitor the drive motor revolution count. Users have an option of which control mode to choose and can switch between the two. 

CBS ArcSafe Inc.


DHP remote switch actuator

The RSA-11A is a remote switch actuator for Westinghouse DHP power circuit breakers. This product allows operators to remotely close and/or trip the circuit breaker. Installation of the lightweight and portable RSA-11A may be performed by one person in a matter of seconds and requires no modification to breaker or switchgear.

CBS ArcSafe Inc.


DS remote switch actuator

The RSA-12A is a remote switch actuator that remotely operates all styles of DS power circuit breakers. The RSA-12A is designed to operate on equipment with either manual or electric charging mechanisms and is compatible with all manufacturers and sizes of DS breakers. This product enables operators to charge, close, and/or trip the circuit breaker. Installation of the lightweight and portable RSA-12A requires no modification to existing breaker or switchgear.

CBS ArcSafe Inc.


GE AK-1/2-25 remote switch actuator

The RSA-29 is a remote switch actuator for GE AK-1/2-25 power circuit breakers. This product allows operators to remotely charge, close, and/or trip the circuit breaker from up to 150 ft away when using a wireless remote control. Installation of the lightweight and portable RSA-29 may be performed by one person in a matter of seconds and requires no modification to breaker or switchgear. The RSA-29 is powered and operated by a CBS ArcSafe Remote Switch Operator (RSO-IIID).

CBS ArcSafe Inc.


Bidirectional disconnect switches

Eaton’s bidirectional disconnect switches incorporate the latest switching technology to enhance operator safety, extend equipment life, and reduce installation costs in grounded and ungrounded systems. The bidirectional disconnect switches can switch one circuit per pole and remove polarity limitations. The switches are available at 30, 90, and 100 amperes, with either 600 Vdc or 1,000 Vdc configurations. These new switches are available for either grounded or ungrounded PV Systems and are capable of breaking up to six circuits with one switch. Grounded system switches include individual, isolate terminals for landing the grounded conductors.

Eaton Corporation
 


Medium-voltage vacuum circuit breaker

The W-VACiMB medium-voltage vacuum circuit breaker is designed for mining applications and engineered to provide reliable and robust circuit protection in a compact and reliable package. The breakers are also designed to protect transformers, capacitor banks, motors, busbar sections, and cable. To protect from demanding environmental conditions, the breakers are sealed from dust and contaminants prevalent in the mining industry and are suitable for high altitude, shock, vibration, and high temperatures. The 17.5 kV circuit breakers make and break power in a sealed environment with no external arcing.

Eaton Corporation


Dock warning signal alarm

The Safety Sentry Warning Signal Alarm improves loading dock safety by alerting those nearby a vehicle backing into the dock position. The Safety Sentry utilizes a 105 dB siren and strobe light combination system with industrial motion sensing technology. The patent-pending design is rated NEMA 4 and constructed with UV-resistant polycarbonate using liquid tight strain relief connections.

Erich Industries Inc.


Automated barrier door

The Guardian Defender combines safety interlock switches/controls capable of achieving up to PLe, Category 4 level safety with a movable physical barrier restricting access to dangerous machine movement. At the same time, process driven hazards such as weld flash, sparks, flying debris, mist, spray, and smoke are contained. The Guardian Defender’s switches/controls provide clear visual communications with two signals, green for safe and red for unsafe. The machine is designed with a 9-in. foam soft bottom edge and Armorplex curtain material.

Frommelt Safety


Swing arm system

The Tether Track Fall Arrest Swing Arm System protects workers from injures due to falls. The system provides workers with a high degree of mobility and freedom, while preventing falls to lower levels. The Swing Arm System provides circular or semicircular fall protection with a compact footprint. The swing arm can be positioned over the workspace when needed and moved out of the way when not in use. The track can be wall mounted, column mounted, or stand alone and is available in standard arm lengths from 8 ft to 30 ft.

Gorbel Inc.


Safety valve

Cormack Propane Safety Valve helps prevent LPG escaping when changing forklift cylinders. When the Cormack valve is closed, it shuts off LP Gas next to the coupler to prevent it from coming through if the seal fails. If the Cormack valve is open, the foolproof handle design covers the coupler so the operator cannot disconnect it in the open position. The Cormack valve fits almost all forklifts and increases LPG cylinder exchange safety. With installation only taking minutes, LPG cylinder changes are quicker.

Liftow Limited


Metal detectable components

DETEX Belt Dressing is a metal detectable plastic aerosol component for the food industry, designed to assist food processing plants in meeting strict HACCP requirements. Blue colored caps, actuators, and extension tubes signify the DETEX components, which are metal detectable and can help prevent food from being contaminated. All metal detectable plastic component ingredients are GRAS listed, meeting the FDA requirements as an acceptable material for use in food processing plants. The aerosol can is in compliance with the Food Safety Net Services and contains lithographed labels.

LPS Laboratories


Versatile lubricant

DETEX Clear Penetrating Grease is a high-performance, versatile lubricant fortified with PTFE additives for enhanced lubrication. Clear Penetrating Grease is NSF Registered H1 No. 143804 and packaged with DETEX, metal detectable plastic components. DETEX components can be identified using standard metal detection equipment should they become loose in the processing area. DETEX chemicals protect vital machinery, as well as protect against expensive recalls, costly downtime, and damaged reputations. DETEX products are ideal for use in food manufacturing, processing, and packaging facilities.

LPS Laboratories


Water-resistant lubricant

DETEX Food Grade Chain Lubricant is a water-resistant lubricant designed primarily for the effective lubrication of all types of chains and conveyors operating in food environments. Food Grade Chain Lubricant is NSF Registered H1 No. 132899 and packaged with DETEX, metal detectable plastic components. DETEX components can be identified using standard metal detection equipment should they become loose in the processing area. DETEX chemicals protect vital machinery, as well as protect against expensive recalls, costly downtime, and damaged reputations. DETEX products are ideal for use in food manufacturing, processing, and packaging facilities.

LPS Laboratories


Lubricant and penetrant

DETEX Food Grade Machine Oil is a lubricant and penetrant that minimizes friction, extends equipment life, and penetrates to provide complete surface coverage protection against wear and corrosion. Food Grade Machine Oil is NSF Registered H1 No. 129000 and packaged with DETEX, metal detectable plastic components. DETEX components can be identified using standard metal detection equipment should they become loose in the processing area. DETEX chemicals protect vital machinery, as well as protect against expensive recalls, costly downtime, and damaged reputations. DETEX products are ideal for use in food manufacturing, processing, and packaging facilities.

LPS Laboratories


Anti-stick agent

Food Grade Silicone Lubricant is a nonstaining, high-quality lubricant designed especially for the food industry for use as an anti-stick agent for chutes and slides. Food Grade Silicone Lubricant is NSF Registered H1 No. 113815 and packaged with DETEX, metal detectable plastic components. DETEX components can be identified using standard metal detection equipment should they become loose in the processing area. DETEX chemicals protect vital machinery, as well as protect against expensive recalls, costly downtime, and damaged reputations. DETEX products are ideal for use in food manufacturing, processing, and packaging facilities.

LPS Laboratories


Water-based lubricant

Heavy-Duty Silicone Lubricant is a unique water-based formulation that contains a high percentage of silicone for better and longer lubrication. Heavy-Duty Silicone Lubricant is NSF Registered H1 No. 01519 and packaged with DETEX, metal detectable plastic components. DETEX components can be identified using standard metal detection equipment should they become loose in the processing area. DETEX chemicals protect vital machinery, as well as protect against expensive recalls, costly downtime, and damaged reputations. DETEX products are ideal for use in food manufacturing, processing, and packaging facilities.

LPS Laboratories


Nonflammable electronic cleaner

K2 NF Electronic Cleaner is a nonflammable, heavy-duty electronic cleaner that is engineered to rapidly clean and restore electronic components. K2 NF Electronic Cleaner is NSF Registered K2 No. 146517 and packaged with DETEX, metal detectable plastic components. DETEX components can be identified using standard metal detection equipment should they become loose in the processing area. DETEX chemicals protect vital machinery, as well as protect against expensive recalls, costly downtime, and damaged reputations. DETEX products are ideal for use in food manufacturing, processing, and packaging facilities.

LPS Laboratories


Nonchlorinated electric cleaner

K2 Electronic Cleaner is a nonchlorinated, plastic-safe cleaner that is engineered to rapidly clean and restore electronic components. K2 Electronic Cleaner is NSF Registered K2 No. 146516 and packaged with DETEX, metal detectable plastic components. DETEX components can be identified using standard metal detection equipment should they become loose in the processing area. DETEX chemicals protect vital machinery, as well as protect against expensive recalls, costly downtime, and damaged reputations. DETEX products are ideal for use in food manufacturing, processing, and packaging facilities.

LPS Laboratories


Rescue kit

The Miller QuickPick Rescue Kit delivers peace-of-mind during unexpected, peer-rescue situations involving those working at height. The rescuer can attach the system to the suspended worker while remaining securely anchored on the working surface. All rescue components are included in an easy-to-store kit with no required assembly. The kit is available in two configurations: the Premium Miller QuickPick Kit designed for workers whose job is not normally rescue, and the Standard Miller QuickPick Kit designed for those experienced in rescue situations. The kits are a professional solution that enhance worker safety and comply with corporate fall protection plans.

Miller Fall Protection


Safety gate

The GateKeeper Mezzanine Safety Gate is a reciprocating barrier that creates a controlled access area where workers can safely load and unload from the edge of a mezzanine, pick module, or other elevated platforms. The barrier designed with the GateKeeper is interconnected and cannot be open at the same time. When the outer gate opens to allow pallets to enter the mezzanine level, the inner gate automatically closes, keeping workers out. The exclusive link bar design ensures that both gates always work in unison, without relying on the chains or cables. Also featured with the GateKeeper is a Saf-T-Latch, preventing workers from raising the outer gate while inside the work zone.

Rite-Hite


Vehicle restraint

The RHR-4000 Dok-Lok vehicle restraint adds another layer of safety by securing overseas container chassis, which can have a plate of obstruction above the rear impact guard. The RHR-4000 offers a water- and dust-resistant IP66 rated motor and a longer lasting, corrosive-resistant finish that meets the ASTM B117 testing standard. Like previous Dok-Loks, the RHR-4000 helps prevent all types of trailer separation accidents, including early departure and landing gear collapse, as well as trailer creep, pop-up, upending, and tip over. The Dok-Lok rotating hook restraints are designed for impact and to withstand the loading dock environment.

Rite-Hite


Virtual main system

Schneider Electric offers an arc flash mitigation solution to upgrade unit substation equipment with the addition of a virtual main system. The system reduces arc flash energy on low-voltage switchgear, including the main incoming section. The virtual main system features a switching device with fault interruption capability on the high-voltage side of the service transformer. The system provides maintenance mode for arc flash reduction, improving the overcurrent protection of unit substation. The virtual main system is equipped with a built-in fault recording and event reconstruction technology in the digital relay.

Schneider Electric


Fail-safe program

Siemens introduced the SIMATIC STEP 7 Safety Advanced V11 option as a part of its Totally Integrated Automation (TIA) Portal, providing end users with all configuration and programming tools required for generating a fail-safe program. The TIA Portal integrates product and production engineering via one interface, linking all of Siemens automation software packages and platforms. The framework of the TIA Portal enables all Siemens Programmable Controllers, HMI operator panel, and drives to be configured in the same development environment. The new Safety Advanced feature allows for intuitive operation and quick entry into the generation of fail-safe programs.

Siemens


Braided hose

The Series AH2 Braided Hose is an extension of the VicFlex Sprinkler Fitting System. The hose is 100% kink resistant, offering a tight bend radius at 2 in., as well as a new level of installation ease and advantage. The VicFlex hose also offers an improved hydraulic performance with a 50% lower friction loss over corrugated systems. The improved corrugation and braided technology reduce the effort needed to bend the hose, allowing for better shape retention. The Series AH2 Braided Hose is cULus Listed and FM Approved in combination with the Style AB1 Bracket.

Victaulic


 Fire suppression system

The Victaulic Vortex 500 Fire Suppression System is designed specifically for information technology spaces such as data rooms and server spaces. This technology utilizes both water and nitrogen in a combined suspension to both cool the hazard area and remove oxygen that sustains the fire using high velocity and low pressure. The swirling distribution fills the hazard space at 40 mph and extinguishes the fire with little to no water. The Victaulic Vortex 500 system provides supreme protection and fire suppression with limited residual moisture, no toxic chemicals, and full design flexibility.

Victaulic