Schmersal makes machine safety switches and interlocks used to guard access doors, gates and moving equipment. The two units listed here are the BNS 16-12ZD coded magnetic safety sensor at around $300 and the BN80-RK actuator at about $130. Coded magnetic sensors are non-contact, which means no mechanical wear and no alignment tolerance problem as a guard door settles over time, and the coded pairing resists defeat with a spare magnet. Safety devices must be selected against the performance level or safety category established by the machine's risk assessment, not chosen on physical fit alone.
**What is a coded magnetic safety sensor?**
It is a non-contact switch with a sensor and a matched actuator. The sensor only recognises its coded partner, which makes it far harder to defeat with a spare magnet than a plain reed switch. Because there is no mechanical contact, there is nothing to wear out as a guard door shifts.
**Do I need a safety relay with these?**
Almost always, yes. Safety sensors are wired into a safety relay or safety controller that performs the dual-channel monitoring and stop function. The sensor alone does not make a safety circuit compliant.
**How do I choose the right performance level?**
That comes from the machine's risk assessment, which determines the required performance level or safety category under the applicable standard. The device must meet or exceed it. This is engineering work, not a catalogue selection.
**Can you order other Schmersal parts?**
Yes. We list only part of the Schmersal range. Send the part number to sales@mapleelectricsupply.ca or call (905) 553-7171 and we will check availability and pricing.
**How do these ship?**
Canada-wide from our Vaughan warehouse, typically 3 to 7 business days in transit. Free shipping over $150 across Ontario and Quebec, 10% off orders going elsewhere in Canada, and counter pickup Monday to Friday.