The Safety Light Barriers by Schmersal are advanced electro-sensitive protective equipment (ESPE) used to safeguard machinery and industrial processes without the need for physical guards. These devices consist of a transmitter and receiver, which create an invisible infrared beam between them.
When an object or person interrupts this beam, the system instantly sends a signal to stop the machine, preventing accidents and ensuring operator safety.
Unlike safety light curtains (which use multiple beams for high-resolution detection), safety light barriers typically use single or few beams, making them ideal for access monitoring, entry detection, and long-range protection applications.
Schmersal safety light barriers, such as the SLB series (SLB 240 / SLB 440), are designed with integrated evaluation electronics, eliminating the need for external safety modules and simplifying installation.
These devices offer compact construction, high reliability, and long sensing ranges (up to 75 m or more depending on model), making them suitable for large industrial areas and conveyor systems.
They also feature safe OSSD outputs, automatic start/restart interlock, and diagnostic indicators, enabling seamless integration with PLCs and safety control systems.
With robust metal housings, high protection ratings, and options for outdoor use (including heater versions for low temperatures), these light barriers are built to perform reliably even in harsh industrial environments.
Key Features & Specifications
• Non-contact safety protection using infrared beam technology
• Immediate machine stop when beam is interrupted
• Compact design with integrated evaluation electronics (no external module required)
• Long sensing range (up to ~75 m or more depending on model)
• Safe OSSD outputs for direct connection to control systems
• Automatic start/restart interlock for enhanced safety
• Diagnostic indicators and setup tools for easy commissioning
• Robust metal housing with M12 connector or cable options
• Optional heater versions for outdoor use (down to –30°C)
• Multiple coding options to avoid interference between devices
• Compliance with IEC 61496 safety standards (Type 2 / Type 4)
• Easy integration with PLC, safety relays, and automation systems
Applications
Safety Light Barriers by Schmersal are widely used in:
• Conveyor and material handling systems
• Packaging and processing machinery
• Assembly and production lines
• High-bay warehouses and logistics systems
• Wood, paper, and printing industries
• Machine access monitoring and entry detection
The Safety Light Barriers by Schmersal provide a compact, reliable, and cost-effective safety solution—offering non-contact protection, simplified installation, and dependable performance for modern industrial automation systems.
