UE 440 – the programmable multifunctional interfaces for small and medium-sized machines

Freely programmable UE 440/470 safety multifunctional interfaces fill the technological gap between safety relays (that require complicated wiring) and the safety PLC (whose cost-benefit ratio is unfavourable in this machine segment). They are thus the right choice for smaller to medium-sized machines, in particular, with significant safety requirements.

The UE 440 safety multifunctional interface, the device for complex protective applications, and the UE 470 – the variant specifically designed for presses and rotary attachments, with its integrated single-break, double-break and protective functions – are accommodated in a compact housing and are Category 4 according to EN 954-1 and SIL 3 in compliance with EN 61508. An important feature of the multifunctional interface is its application-specific parameterisation. Among other features, the UE 440 and UE 470 offer 15 single-channel inputs, of which three can be connected as two-channel inputs. There are also two safe device connections for electro-sensitive protective equipment from SICK. Thus not only can a wide range of safety functions, such as Emergency Stop, the monitoring of protective doors, or Restart be covered – there are also interesting expanded functions for users. Eight outputs, of which two are safe output pairs, allow individual control of downstream plant components.

The appropriate alternative

UE 440/470 multifunctional interfaces are characterised by low engineering and initial costs per input and output, lower wiring costs, and optimum user-friendliness during operation, troubleshooting or when making modifications. The configuration memory ensures that, for example during the replacement of a connected C4000, the parameterisation or operation-mode-specific settings are not lost. The multifunctional interfaces autonomously detect the new sensor, e.g. a SICK safety light curtain, and automatically configure it with the data of the original device.

Technological bridging function

While simple safety control applications are still solved with safety relays; safety PLC and open fieldbus systems are becoming increasingly dominant in larger, complex production sites. UE 440 and UE 470 safety multifunctional interfaces bridge these two worlds and are positioned precisely between the two. Thus UE 440/470 interfaces are the safe choice whenever flexibility and relay wiring costs are limiting factors, and use of a safety PLC is unwarranted.