Balluff's New Absolute Linear Encoder with SIL2 for Machine Safety

Highly accurate and dynamic position feedback for safe machine movement

Balluff announces the BML S1G-series absolute magnetic linear encoder is now available with SIL 2 certification. The SIL 2 certification means that the high-performance BML S1G can be used in machine safety applications.


The BML S1G absolute encoder is already a class-leading option for highly accurate, highly dynamic position feedback. The new SIL 2 certification allows machine designers to take advantage of this high-performance absolute position feedback system with an added value of machine safety applications in one device. Scott Rosenberger, Product Marketing Manager for Balluff's measurement products, points out the value of the SIL 2 rating adding "the SIL 2 rating means that the BML system can be used in conjunction with a safety controller in critical applications, such as those where machine movement must be either prevented, or slowed to a speed that is considered safe". According to Rosenberger, the BML S1G with SIL 2 enables users to implement safety functions such as Safely Limited Speed (SLS), Safe Stop 1 (SS1), and Safe Torque Off (STO).

Some of the features of the BML S1G with SIL 2 include:

Safety certified: Meets the requirements for DIN EN ISO 13849-1:2015, Machine Directive, Performance Level D

Time-saving: Easy to set up; no configuration required for the position feedback
Accurate over Long Distances: Measuring lengths up to 48 meters, and position resolution to 1 µm
Convenient: Integrated parameterization and diagnostic functions

About Balluff Inc.: Balluff Inc., the U.S. subsidiary of Balluff GmbH, Neuhausen, Germany, is a leading manufacturer of a wide range of inductive, photoelectric, vision, capacitive and magnetic sensors as well as linear position transducers, RFID systems, and networking products. Balluff products for OEM and factory floor solutions are used to control, regulate, automate, assemble, position, and monitor manufacturing, assembly, and packaging sequences for industries including: metalworking, automotive, plastics, material handling, wood processing, aerospace, alternative energy, medical, electrical, and electronics.

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