Safety Relays for Speed, Direction & Position Monitoring

Safety relays play a critical role in systems where the safe monitoring of movement is essential. These relays ensure machines operate within defined safety parameters, detecting risks such as:

• Overspeed or underspeed
• Incorrect direction of rotation
• Standstill confirmation
• Shaft breakage or positional slip

The DS series from Motrona provides dual certification (DIN 61508 and EN ISO 13849), allowing use in high-risk applications that require SIL3/PLe or SIL2/PLd performance levels. With analogue outputs and fault detection, these safety relay systems integrate seamlessly into complex control setups.

They are widely used in:

• Centrifuges and test benches: These monitoring systems ensure safe rotational speeds during high-speed processes and testing, preventing overspeed faults and potential mechanical failures.

• Cranes (gantry, overhead, process): Used to track direction of movement and safe standstill, this technology supports safe lifting operations and helps prevent collisions and load mishandling.

• Fans and wind turbines: Speed control solutions are vital here, protecting against excessive rotational forces that can lead to wear, system breakdowns, or unsafe operating conditions in high-speed airflow or wind environments.

• Transport and conveyor systems: Motion control components detect speed irregularities or reverse movement, enabling fast shutdowns to prevent product damage, system blockages or operator risk.

• Saws and woodworking machinery: Motion sensors help manage critical stop/start functions and prevent accidental activation, ensuring blades only move under controlled, safe conditions.

• Filling, grinding, and balancing machines: These applications demand precise speed regulation to maintain output quality and avoid imbalances, with monitoring equipment triggering shutdowns if tolerances are breached.

• Automation and robotic cells: Position and speed monitoring devices ensure robotic arms and machinery operate within programmed parameters, supporting both productivity and safe human-machine interaction.

• High-rack storage systems: In automated warehousing, monitoring solutions control the movement of lift systems and trolleys, avoiding misalignment, unintended travel or collision with stored goods.

As industries become more automated, the demand for reliable safety solutions like these continues to grow.

Unlike basic sensors, safety relays don’t just monitor, they act. When movement exceeds safe limits, these devices can stop machines, block restarts or trigger alarms. This makes them essential in protecting both personnel and machinery.

Whereas traditional monitoring systems may only record data, our relays intervene directly. Motrona safety relay units feature redundancy and self-monitoring functions, reducing downtime and enhancing operational integrity.

At Encoder Technology, we specialise in high-quality components designed for industrial safety and control. Our solutions are built for performance in challenging environments, with features that ensure compliance, durability and ease of use.

• Trusted safety relay range
• Certified to SIL3/PLe and SIL2/PLd standards
• Analogue output options for control integration
• Compact design for simple cabinet installation
• Expert advice and same-day UK delivery

Whether you’re managing motion in a single machine or an entire automated line, our products deliver safety, compliance and reliability where it matters most. If you need further advice, contact us today, and we’d be happy to help!