Open-Head Sensor Interlock Feature Available for Masterflex Peristaltic Pumps

Masterflex® peristaltic pumps have always been configurable to your needs and now offer another option to enhance performance. New open-head sensor interlock technology couples with quick-loading pump heads to shut down the drive when the pump head is opened, eliminating exposure to moving rollers connected to the drive shaft.

This sensor feature is particularly beneficial for peristaltic pumps operating in a system where a PLC or SCADA computer can control the pumps from a remote location. Unexpected remote actuation of the pump is prevented by the open-head sensor interlock, similar to lockout/tagout procedures. When an operator opens the pump head, intentionally or accidentally, power is removed from the pump drive that is connected to an interlock box. Power to the pump drive will not be restored until the operator closes the pump head. Open-head sensor interlock technology can also safeguard inexperienced peristaltic pump operators from injury while loading or changing tubing.

You can retrofit an open-head sensor interlock capability to your existing Masterflex L/S® or I/P® pump head. Or if you are in the market for a new pump system, choose a drive and pump head with the integrated open-head sensor interlock.

Why an open-head sensor interlock feature?

One of our pharmaceutical customers approached us to develop a method to prevent their Masterflex L/S peristaltic pumps from operating when the pump head was opened. They had approximately 70 Masterflex L/S peristaltic pumps incorporated into their current process, so they were looking for a simple solution without having to interrupt their current workflow by validating all new pump systems. Our experienced engineering team went to work and developed the retrofit system and the integrated open-head sensor interlock.

The retrofit system

The retrofit system is comprised of a control box and a new open-head sensor interlock equipped pump head. The pump head with the open-head sensor interlock easily connects to the interlock control box that houses a control board for cutting off line voltage when the pump head is opened. If the pump head is opened during operation, the interlock control box instantly shuts down the drive. Power to the pump drive will not be restored until the operator closes the opened pump head. An indicator light on the box confirms the condition of the sensed head.

The interlock control box on the retrofit system accepts input signals from up to two stacked pump heads and will respond to either head being opened. The box is supplied with a sensor-shorting plug to allow single-channel operation. When dual-channel operation is desired, this plug is removed and the second head is connected. This retrofit system is also NEMA 4X / IP66 rated for washdown making it ideal for pharmaceutical production, food processing and other industries having critical cleaning protocols.

Masterflex peristaltic pumps, by Cole-Parmer, are the world’s leading peristaltic pumps widely used in pharmaceutical production, biotech processing, food processing, and industrial water treatment.