SL-R12EX | Keyence Intelligent Extension Unit

The Keyence SL-R12EX is an intelligent extension unit designed for safety systems, specifically for use with safety relay controllers in industrial applications. As a part of the Safety Systems category and classified as a Safety Relay Extension Unit, the SL-R12EX enhances system functionality by providing additional input/output control for safety devices. It is built to expand the capabilities of the SL-R11 relay unit, offering robust integration with existing safety control systems.

This unit operates with an input voltage of 26.4 VDC and supports a dual input rating configuration: 24 VDC at 2.3 mA for inputs A1, A2, and A3, and 24 VDC at 1.6 mA for inputs B1, B2, and B3. This allows the unit to manage multiple input devices simultaneously, ensuring flexible control of safety circuits. The unit’s threshold voltage for activation (ON) is set at 19 V, while the threshold current for deactivation (OFF) is 0.5 mA, providing precision in input detection and system response.

The SL-R12EX has a maximum current capacity of 100 mA, making it suitable for various safety system applications. Its current consumption is rated at 110 mA or less, which ensures efficient energy use within the control panel, minimizing the power load on the system. The common ground configuration is divided into two sections, providing a shared ground for inputs A1, A2, and A3, and a separate shared ground for inputs B1, B2, and B3. This separation allows for reliable signal management and improved system performance in multi-input configurations.

One of the key features of the SL-R12EX is its status monitoring capability, made possible by the integrated LED array display. This display provides real-time feedback on the unit’s operational status, enabling operators to quickly identify system states, errors, or malfunctions. The status display improves the ease of system monitoring, reducing the need for manual inspections and enhancing overall safety system management.

To ensure operational reliability, the SL-R12EX includes an allowance for input timing gaps of up to 200 ms. This feature allows for slight delays between input signals without compromising system safety or triggering unnecessary faults. The timing gap tolerance is particularly useful in complex safety systems where signal delays may occur due to varying distances or conditions.

The unit is built to meet industrial standards for environmental and physical resistance. It is enclosed in an IP20-rated housing, providing basic protection against dust and accidental contact. However, it must be installed in a control panel with at least an IP54 rating to ensure adequate protection against environmental factors such as moisture or more substantial dust exposure. This dual-enclosure approach ensures the unit remains functional and protected in harsher industrial settings.

The SL-R12EX is engineered to operate within a wide range of environmental conditions, with a specified operating temperature range of -10 to +55°C. It is also rated for 35 to 85% relative humidity, provided that there is no freezing or condensation within the enclosure. This allows the unit to perform reliably in various industrial environments, from temperature-controlled production floors to outdoor setups with more variable climate conditions.

In terms of physical durability, the SL-R12EX is designed to withstand significant mechanical stress. It features vibration resistance at frequencies from 10 to 55 Hz, with a double amplitude of 0.7 mm. This resistance ensures stable operation in environments with constant machine vibrations, such as those found in manufacturing and assembly lines. Additionally, the unit’s shock resistance is rated at 100 m/s² (approximately 10 G) with a 16 ms pulse, tested 1,000 times in each direction (X, Y, and Z). This level of shock resistance ensures that the SL-R12EX can endure sudden impacts or movements without compromising performance or safety.

Overall, the Keyence SL-R12EX provides a reliable and robust solution for expanding safety relay systems in industrial applications. Its ability to manage multiple inputs with precision, combined with its durability and flexibility, makes it an ideal choice for enhancing safety control in complex industrial environments. The unit's real-time monitoring, wide operating range, and high tolerance for environmental and mechanical stress contribute to its effectiveness in ensuring safe and efficient operations within diverse industrial safety systems.