Magnetic safety sensors

Magnetic Safety Sensors for Non-Contact Position Monitoring

What are magnetic safety sensors?

Magnetic safety sensors are non-contact switching devices that use magnetic field detection to monitor the position of machine guards such as doors, hatches and covers. They are used on machinery without run-down time, where removing power immediately brings the machine to a safe stop. In these applications a locking mechanism is not required, but reliable position monitoring is essential for machine safety.

Where are magnetic safety sensors used?

Magnetic sensors are suitable for a wide range of industrial automation applications, including:

• Packaging machinery
• Compact pick-and-place systems
• Conveyors operating without mechanical run-down time
• Medical and laboratory equipment
• Enclosures containing electrical or mechanical hazards

Their compact design allows straightforward integration into confined spaces or aluminium profile systems.

How do magnetic safety sensors detect without mechanical contact?

Because magnetic sensors operate without mechanical contact, they provide a low-maintenance solution. There is no mechanical wear, significantly improving service life. The technology is resistant to dust, vibration, contamination and moisture, making these sensors suitable for industrial environments with repeated operation or cleaning cycles.

How do coded magnetic actuators provide tamper resistance?

For increased security, coded magnetic versions are available. These sensors recognise only the designated coded actuator, helping prevent bypassing or manipulation of the safety function. This supports compliance with the tamper-resistance requirements of EN ISO 14119.

What safety levels can magnetic safety sensors achieve?

Depending on the sensor design and the safety control architecture, magnetic safety sensors can be applied in systems up to:

• Performance Level e (PL e) according to EN ISO 13849-1
• SIL 3 according to EN/IEC 62061

With certified safety outputs, magnetic sensors can be integrated into safety relays or safety PLCs and used in both series wiring and individual channel monitoring.

Connection options and voltage ranges

Magnetic safety sensors are available with multiple wiring and connection variants:

• M12 connectors (straight or angled)
• Overmoulded fixed cables with sealed terminations

Depending on the model, they are compatible with common supply voltages such as 24 V DC, 110 V AC or 230 V AC, enabling integration into existing machine installations.

Housing types and mechanical construction

Sensors are available in various housing styles and materials. Plastic housings are suitable for general industrial use, while stainless steel versions (e.g. AISI 316) are designed for applications requiring high hygiene standards, including:

• Food processing environments
• Pharmaceutical production
• Cleanrooms and laboratory equipment

Protection classes up to IP67 and IP69K ensure resistance to high-pressure and steam cleaning.

Key functional advantages of magnetic safety sensors

• Wear-free operation due to non-contact switching
• Compact footprint for space-limited machinery
• Suitable for flush or concealed mounting
• Consistent operation under vibration or contamination
• Long service life and high reliability
• Stainless steel options for hygienic or corrosive environments

How do magnetic sensors compare to other safety sensor types?

Compared to RFID safety sensors, magnetic sensors provide a cost-efficient solution with lower but still adequate tamper resistance for standard industrial applications. In applications with elevated tampering risk or where PL e must be achieved with high coding requirements, RFID sensors are generally the preferred choice.

Expert guidance on selecting magnetic safety sensors

Our machine safety specialists can support the selection of the appropriate magnetic safety sensor for your installation. Whether for replacement, retrofit or new machine design, we assist with selection, integration and compliance with the relevant safety standards. Contact us for product specifications and application-specific advice.