Pepperl+Fuchs VAA-2E2A-KE1P-S/E2 AS-Interface Safety Module

Technical Overview

The Pepperl+Fuchs VAA-2E2A-KE1P-S/E2 is an AS-Interface safety module designed for advanced industrial automation and machine safety applications. This 'Safety at Work' module features two safe inputs for mechanical contacts and two standard electronic outputs, providing robust safety monitoring and control. Housed in a compact KE1 enclosure, it is ideal for DIN rail mounting within control cabinets and ensures seamless integration into AS-Interface networks.

Key Features

2 safe inputs for mechanical contacts such as EMERGENCY-STOP switches
Housing with removable terminals for easy wiring
Communication monitoring via AS-Interface
Power supply for outputs from external auxiliary voltage
Power supply for inputs from the module itself
Function display via LEDs for bus, external auxiliary voltage, inputs, and outputs
Output overload monitoring for enhanced reliability
Switchable internal logic operation of inputs and outputs via parameter bit
Integrated addressing jack for simple setup
DIN rail mounting (35 mm, EN 50022) for control cabinet installation

Technical Specification Matrix

Parameter	Value
Node Type	Safety-Slave
AS-Interface Specification	S-7.B
Safety Integrity Level (SIL)	SIL 3 (IEC 61508, IEC 62061)
Performance Level (PL)	PL e (for 1 2-channel contact), PL c (for 2 single-channel contacts) to ISO 13849-1
Auxiliary Voltage (Output)	20 ... 30 V DC PELV
Rated Operating Voltage (from AS-Interface)	26.5 ... 31.6 V (or 20 ... 30 V DC pulsed)
Input Current Loading Capacity	≤ 15 mA, overload and short-circuit resistant
Number/Type of Inputs	2 safety-related inputs for mechanical contacts, crossed-circuit monitored
Number/Type of Outputs	2 conventional electronic outputs, PNP
Output Current	0.5 A per output (max. 1 A total)
Degree of Protection	IP20
Ambient Temperature	-25 ... 70 °C
Mounting	35 mm DIN mounting rail (EN 50022)
Electromagnetic Compatibility	Directive 2014/30/EU; EN 61000-6-2:2005, EN 61000-4-5:2005 1 kV asymmetric, criterion B, EN 61000-6-4:2007
Insulation Coordination	EN 50178:1998

Industrial Applications

1. Emergency Stop System Integration in Control Cabinets

Integrating multiple emergency stop buttons into an AS-Interface network for machine safety, where a compact, highly reliable safety module is required within a control cabinet.

Problem Solved

This module provides SIL 3 and PL e rated inputs for connecting mechanical emergency stop switches, ensuring high safety integrity. Its compact 22.5 mm width and DIN rail mounting are ideal for space-constrained control cabinets (IP20 rating). AS-Interface communication simplifies wiring and integration into the existing automation infrastructure.

AS-InterfaceEmergency StopSIL 3PL eDIN RailSafety InputsMechanical ContactsControl Cabinet

2. Machine Guarding and Interlock Monitoring

Monitoring safety gates or protective covers with interlocking devices on industrial machinery to prevent operation when guards are open, requiring high safety integrity and easy integration into an industrial bus system.

Problem Solved

The VAA-2E2A-KE1P-S/E2's SIL 3 and PL e ratings ensure reliable monitoring of safety interlock switches on machine guards via its two safety inputs. AS-Interface compatibility allows for distributed safety I/O, reducing wiring complexity for multiple guarded points across a machine, operating within an IP20 environment (e.g., inside an electrical enclosure).

Machine GuardingSafety InterlocksAS-InterfaceSIL 3PL eSafety InputsDistributed I/OIndustrial Safety

3. Safety Sensor Integration in Production Lines

Connecting various mechanical safety sensors, such as limit switches for position monitoring in hazardous zones, into a production line's safety circuit that also requires standard control outputs and efficient communication over an AS-Interface network.

Problem Solved

With two safety-rated inputs, the module effectively integrates mechanical safety sensors for position detection or zone access monitoring in hazardous areas. The two conventional electronic outputs provide signals for non-safety related control functions or status indication. AS-Interface integration simplifies the network architecture for distributed safety and control devices in a production environment.

Safety SensorsLimit SwitchesProduction LineAS-InterfaceSIL 3PL eSafety InputsConventional OutputsIndustrial Automation