Banner Engineering Introduces Machine-Mountable RSr Safety Relay

Banner Engineering has launched the RSr Remote Safety Relay, which can be mounted directly on machines. This device moves high-current safety relay functions out of control cabinets and closer to the equipment. With an IP65/IP67 rating, it offers connectorized 24 V DC inputs and outputs. When used with compatible safety devices and setups, it supports safety circuits up to Category 4/PL e and SIL 3.

One of the models in the new remote safety relay, RSr-L-SIL-8A-Q. Image used courtesy of Banner Engineering

An 8 A Safety Output for Distributed Safety Machinery

Most machine safety systems use a central control cabinet, which requires additional wiring between safety devices, the cabinet, and the loads. The new RSr changes this by placing the relay near the safety zone or machine. This setup lets you distribute relay switching across the machine while still using devices like safety PLCs, light curtains, and emergency stop buttons. The remote safety relay works with dual-channel OSSD devices, such as compatible light curtains and emergency stops, to provide strong safety performance without a separate EDM circuit.

The RSr provides 8 A, pulse-free 24 V DC outputs for switching safety-related loads. It can be used for machine shutoff circuits, hydraulic valves, rollers, and conveyor zones. By mounting the output directly on the machine, the relay connects more closely to the load it controls. This helps in machine zones that are far apart, where adding more cabinet-based safety would require extra wiring and hardware.

The new safety relay mounted on a machine. Image used courtesy of Banner Engineering

Up to Category 4 / PL e and SIL 3

Safety performance is a key feature of the RSr. Banner Engineering states that it can reach up to Category 4 / Performance Level e and SIL 3 when used with compatible dual-channel OSSD devices and the right safety setup. The relay has a redundant, self-monitoring design that supports safety functions and simplifies the circuit. As with any safety device, the final safety category depends on the entire system, including input devices, wiring, loads, diagnostics, and the application's design.

Trip and Latch Versions for Plug-and-Play Installations

The new RSr comes in both trip and latch models and is designed for easy installation with an M12 connector for inputs and outputs. It does not require programming or dip switch setup, making it simple to use in standalone safety circuits without an extra safety controller for resetting.

The trip model is for systems where an external device handles the reset, such as a safety controller or PLC, making it suitable for centralized or distributed safety systems. The latch model lets you reset the relay locally, so a compatible OSSD safety device and reset button can connect directly to the RSr. This supports simpler standalone safety circuits without extra reset controllers. The RSr also has onboard LEDs to show power, input/output status, and faults. For mounting, the enclosure supports through-hole mounting, and an optical bracket lets you mount the relay directly to industrial machinery.

Supporting Modern Machine-Zone Safety

Modern production lines with multiple sections need independent safety shutdown functions. Placing safety switching hardware close to each zone helps distribute these functions across the machine, instead of sending every safety load back to a central cabinet. Solutions like the RSr can help by providing zone-based, on-machine safety switching with manual reset. This makes it easier for maintenance teams to troubleshoot across a large plant.