Rockford System Introduces Economical Press Controller
New EPC3000 Features Versatile Logic Controls for C-frame or H-frame Pneumatic and Hydropneumatic Presses
ROCKFORD, IL, MARCH 23, 2023 — The improper use of pneumatic power presses is a significant source of fractures, amputations, and other traumatic injuries in manufacturing plants. Recognizing these dangers, Rockford Systems today introduced its EPC3000 Safety Controller expressly designed for C- and H-frame single-pressure pneumatic or hydropneumatic (air over hydraulic) presses. Whether it’s installed on a new press or during the retrofit of an older press, the EPC3000 delivers versatile control at an affordable price point. When installed on a hydropneumatic press, the EPC3000 does not require replumbing of any hydraulics, saving the owner time and money without compromising safety.
“Our new EPC3000 greatly reduces the potential for press accidents and helps ensure compliance for our customers with the latest machine-guarding standards,” noted Matt Brenner, Vice President and General Manager of Machine Safeguard, Rockford Systems, LLC. “The EPC3000 incorporates all the logic capabilities of a full press control system, making it an economically priced alternative to the standard practices of installing multiple safety relay modules or an expensive, complex safety PLC.”
Twenty-six input terminals on the EPC3000 allow for the control of a wide range of actuation, control, and safety devices. These devices can include an eStop, a 2-hand controller, light curtains, safety mats, interlocked gates, and input for “part in place” to start the cycle, as well as sensors for the top (TOS) and bottom of the stroke (BOS) or a sequence stop with a foot switch. Up to eight of the 26 inputs can be converted to outputs, simplifying wiring requirements and maximizing the controller’s utility.
If one of the connected devices tripped or when the press reaches the BOS, the EPC3000 immediately stops the downward motion of the press and holds it in a safe position. Return to TOS can be programmed to be either automatic when the BOS is reached or performed manually. For users requiring more advanced configurations, the EPC3000 features outputs to the up solenoid and down solenoid plus solenoids for speed or pressure control.
An optional safety output extension module for the EPC3000 is available for dual-pressure systems, bringing all the advantages of the EPC3000 to larger-scale pressing applications. Both the single- and dual-pressure systems provide an intuitive programming environment for easy implementation. Several 2-way, 3-way, and 4-way valving options are also available upon customer request, including adding a 2-way, NC valve in series with the press down for redundancy.
For more information, call 800-922-7533 or visit www.rockfordsystems.com.
ABOUT ROCKFORD SYSTEMS LLC
Headquartered in Rockford, Illinois, Rockford Systems, LLC delivers trusted machine-safeguarding solutions for organizations working with industrial machinery. As a trusted adviser since 1971, Rockford Systems helps organizations interpret and apply complex Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations and American National Standards Institute (ANSI) machine safety standards for a broad array of industrial applications. In addition, Rockford Systems provides complete Turnkey Machine Safety Solutions, including machine safeguarding assessments, machine risk assessments, customized build-to-spec integration, over 10,000 safeguarding products, expert installation services, training, and technical support, and ongoing compliance validation. Rockford Systems has improved the workplace safety of many of North America’s largest companies by reducing risk and preventing workplace injuries.
Rockford Combustion of Rockford Systems, LLC provides combustion safety solutions including training, service, burner tuning, and audits, as well as standardized and custom-engineered valve safety trains. These extensive risk reduction solutions enable organizations to improve compliance and worker safety while maintaining productivity.
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