Panasonic SF4C-H24-J05 Ultra-slim Safety Light Curtain

Technical Overview

Ultra-slim Type 4 safety light curtain for hand protection, 480mm sensing height, 20mm beam pitch, ø25mm min object detection, IP67 rated, PLe/SIL3 compliant.

Key Features

Ultra-slim profile (13.2mm thickness) to maximize machine opening.
Lightweight resin construction (approx. 45% lighter than aluminum models).
IP67 protection structure for harsh industrial environments.
Large, easy-to-see multi-purpose LED indicators (Red/Green) for operational status and error display.
No dedicated safety controller required.
PNP / NPN output switching type for flexible integration.
ELCA (Extraneous Light Check & Avoid) function for automatic interference reduction.
Built-in functions: Test input, Interlock (manual/automatic reset), External device monitor, Safety input, Muting, Override.
Fast response time of 7ms.
Suitable for indoor industrial use.

Technical Specification Matrix

Parameter	Value
Protective Height	480 mm
Beam Pitch	20 mm
Number of Beam Channels	24
Minimum Sensing Object	ø25 mm
Current Consumption (Indicator Off) - Emitter	75 mA or less
Current Consumption (Indicator Off) - Receiver	95 mA or less
Current Consumption (Indicator On) - Emitter	120 mA or less
Current Consumption (Indicator On) - Receiver	145 mA or less
PFH	1.72 × 10^-9
MTTFD	299 years
Applicable Standards	IEC 61496-1/2 (Type 4), ISO 13849-1 (Category 4, PLe), IEC 61508-1 to 3 (SIL 3), EN 61496-1 (Type 4)
Cable Type	Pigtailed
IP Rating	IP67 (IEC)
Operating Temperature	-10 to +55 °C
Supply Voltage	24 V DC
Response Time	7 ms
Physical Weight (kg)	0.46
Dimensions L x W x H (cm)	48 x 3 x 1.32

Industrial Applications

1. Machine Guarding for Robotic Work Cells

This safety light curtain is ideal for protecting personnel accessing robotic work cells where high-speed automated machinery operates. Its 480mm protective height is suitable for hand and arm detection, while the 20mm beam pitch ensures detection of objects as small as ø25mm, preventing inadvertent access to dangerous moving parts.

Problem Solved

Prevents human operators from entering hazardous zones of robotic cells during operation, complying with high safety standards (PLe, SIL3) without hindering access during maintenance due to its quick response time and compact design.

Robotic SafetyMachine GuardingHand ProtectionType 4PLeSIL3High-Speed AutomationAccess Control

2. Point-of-Operation Safeguarding on Small Assembly Machines

Given its ultra-slim 13.2mm profile and 480mm protective height, this light curtain can be seamlessly integrated into compact assembly machines, presses, or cutting equipment to safeguard the point of operation. Its IP67 rating ensures reliability in environments where dust, coolants, or splashes might be present, common in manufacturing.

Problem Solved

Provides essential safety at the direct point of contact with machine hazards in confined spaces, protecting operators' hands from injury while maintaining efficient material feeding and removal, especially in wet or dusty conditions.

Point-of-Operation SafeguardingCompact MachineryIP67 ProtectionAssembly LinePress SafetyCutting EquipmentSlim Design

3. Perimeter Guarding for Material Handling Systems

For automated material handling or conveying systems, the SF4C-H24-J05 can establish safe perimeters. The 480mm protective height, coupled with Type 4 safety certification, offers robust protection against personnel reaching into the conveyor path. The ability to automatically adjust for interference (ELCA function) reduces false trips, crucial for continuous operation.

Problem Solved

Creates a safe zone around automated conveyor belts or palletizers, preventing operators from reaching into moving parts or pinch points. The ELCA function minimizes operational interruptions caused by environmental factors or minor beam obstructions.

Perimeter GuardingConveyor SafetyAutomated Material HandlingPinch Point ProtectionELCA FunctionContinuous OperationIndustrial Safety