Guardmaster Cadet Safety Switch
Product Line: Cadet
Manufacturer: Guardmaster (now part of Allen-Bradley / Rockwell Automation)
1. General Description
The Guardmaster Cadet is a compact, tongue-operated safety interlock switch. It is designed to be fitted to the leading edge of sliding, hinged, or lift-off machine guards. When the guard is opened, the actuator key is withdrawn from the switch, which positively opens the safety contacts, thereby isolating power to the machine.
This is a key safety component used in machine guarding applications to protect personnel from hazardous motion by ensuring the machine cannot operate while the guard is open. Its compact size makes it ideal for smaller machines or applications where space is limited.
Key Features 🎯
- Positive Operation: The contacts are forcibly disconnected (positively operated) when the actuator key is removed, providing a high level of safety.
- Compact Size: Ideal for smaller guards and tight mounting locations.
- High Protection: IP66 rated enclosure ensures protection against dust ingress and powerful water jets.
- Versatile Mounting: Can be mounted in various orientations.
- Safety Standard Compliance: Designed to meet key international safety standards.
2. Technical Specifications
Electrical Ratings (from label)
| Voltage | Max. Current |
| 100 Vac | 5 A |
| 250 Vac | 2 A |
| 500 Vac | 1 A |
Mechanical & Environmental Data
| Parameter | Value |
| Enclosure Material | Reinforced Thermoplastic (Red) |
| Actuator Material | Stainless Steel (Sold Separately) |
| Enclosure Protection | IP66 |
| Contact Configuration | Typically 2NC (Normally Closed) + 1NO (Normally Open) |
| Mechanical Life | > 1 million cycles (Typical) |
| Country of Origin | Made in England |
Standards Compliance
- BS 5304: Safety of machinery
- VDE 0660: Low-voltage switchgear and controlgear
- IEC 337/1: Control switches
3. Operation
- Guard Closed: The actuator key is fully inserted into the switch. The Normally Closed (NC) safety contacts are closed, allowing the machine’s control circuit to be energized. The Normally Open (NO) monitoring contact is open.
- Guard Opening: As the guard is opened, it pulls the actuator key out of the switch.
- Guard Open: The withdrawal of the key forces the NC safety contacts to open, breaking the safety circuit and stopping the machine. The NO monitoring contact closes, which can be used to signal the guard’s status to a PLC or indicator light.
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