A plastic guard is a physical barrier that can perform several functions including
- Preventing contact with moving parts or controlling access to dangerous areas of plant.
- Screening harmful emissions, for example radiation.
- Minimising noise
- Preventing ejected parts or off-cuts from striking people.
Plastic fabricated guards that Dotmar provide materials for generally take one of the following forms
- Fixed & interlocked guards – these are not permanent in that they can be removed for access in the case of cleaning, maintenance or setting up equipment.
- Tunnel guards – used typically when product being processed needs to flow through a machine.
- Fences & protection by distance – prevent persons accessing a dangerous zone.
- Other types of guards, include permanent, adjustable and self-closing.
Which Plastic Should be Used?
The guard or barrier function will generally dictate the most appropriate plastic material to be used.
Function 1 – Preventing Contact with Moving Parts
A common application where preventing contact with moving parts is a belt drive between a motor and a pump, which requires a fixed or interlocked type of guard that is not permanent, so it can be removed for maintenance.
Traditionally these guards have been made from sheet metal and then painted in a safety yellow to bring attention to the hazard or potentially dangerous equipment. Often these guards rust and require re-painting to ensure that they are visible and safe.
The most suitable plastic for this type of guard is “Polystone 300 Yellow UV”. This material is easily fabricated, using CNC routers to machine the individual panels, welding to form the guard, and fasteners or a toggle clamp to hold the two halves together.
Benefits of Polystone 300 Yellow UV vs sheet metal
• Corrosion and chemical resistance
• Permanently yellow, i.e. no re-painting required
• Lightweight
• Better noise suppression
A common application where preventing contact with moving parts is a belt drive between a motor and a pump, which requires a fixed or interlocked type of guard that is not permanent, so it can be removed for maintenance.
Traditionally these guards have been made from sheet metal and then painted in a safety yellow to bring attention to the hazard or potentially dangerous equipment. Often these guards rust and require re-painting to ensure that they are visible and safe.
The most suitable plastic for this type of guard is “Polystone 300 Yellow UV”. This material is easily fabricated, using CNC routers to machine the individual panels, welding to form the guard, and fasteners or a toggle clamp to hold the two halves together.
Benefits of Polystone 300 Yellow UV vs sheet metal
• Corrosion and chemical resistance
• Permanently yellow, i.e. no re-painting required
• Lightweight
• Better noise suppression