05/07/2024 for Ultatek.Mk Signal towers are an important type of signal light used in various industries and processes. These lights are distinguished by their columnar structure of multiple independent lights stacked one above the other. They generally consist of up to five different colored light segments: red, green, yellow, blue, and white, and often include a sound module. Due to their stacking orientation, purpose, and design, these lights are also known as indicator lights, stack signal lights, warning lights, stack lights, industrial signaling lights, and light towers. Purpose of Signal Towers with Lights for Machines and Production Lines Nowadays, industrial machines are equipped with intuitive interfaces and advanced diagnostics that inform operators about the machine's status or events. These features help operators take the necessary actions at the right time. However, these features have limitations regarding their visibility at long distances. Often, operators spend time away from their work consoles for work-related or other reasons. It becomes difficult for them to access the machine and check the status of the current process. This is where signal towers with lights are helpful. Given that the different light modules are stacked in towers and placed on the machine, they are visible from all directions, offering a 360-degree view. These lights provide status information to operators, supervisors, technicians, and other floor personnel. At times, these lights also produce a strobe light signal or an alarm sound, thus informing maintenance technicians, forklift operators, or other personnel about the status of the process or machine. Signal towers with lights are an integral part of Lean Manufacturing initiatives, and are commonly called Andon lights. These lights are one of the most common forms of visual management. YOU MAY BE INTERESTED IN – Integration of Andon Systems for Production Processes Andon Settings Signal towers with Andon lights are powerful visual tools that are visible from a distance. These lights can be used in various configurations, such as: Andon lighting modulesThese indicator lights are typically composed of three lighting modules: green, yellow, and red. Similar to standard signal towers, green symbolizes a normal working condition, yellow symbolizes a request for assistance, and red symbolizes a production stop. The red light comes with an alarm. Sometimes, these lights are linked to automated systems, allowing for easy detection of problems. Andon Display BoardThese boards are placed near workstations and show a summary of various assembly lines. These boards can be used in two ways: to indicate when an individual assembly line is ready for changeover, and to indicate that certain stations may have a problem. The first option is applicable to traditional assembly lines where products are advanced manually. Características de las torretas de señalización con luces Andon The common features of signal towers with lights include the following: Lighting ModulesSignal towers with lights can comprise one, two, or up to five modules in a single stack. Illumination modules are available in colors such as red, green, yellow, blue, and white with LED or incandescent lamps. Integrated illumination modules are mainly offered in three module illumination styles: IntermittentIn this module, the light flashes continuously. ContinueIn this module, the lights remain on continuously. This module is the most common. RoundaboutIn this module, the light rotates, thereby attracting the user's attention. Most of the time, the light is also accompanied by an audible alarm. Sound ModulesSignal towers with lights feature integrated alarms. These alarms can have monotonal, bitonal, or intermittent alarm patterns. AssemblyMounting bases are typically available in three configurations: direct mount, wall mount, and post mount. Direct mount bases can be installed easily because they do not require drilling. Wall mount bases are attached to the panel using a 4-hole mounting pattern. Post mount bases are offered with integrated wiring which ensures easy and quick wiring to terminals, thus reducing installation time. There is also the option of wireless turrets, which allows for greater flexibility in placing the signaling lights without the need for physical wiring connections. These wireless signal towers for remote monitoring of industrial machines and processes they communicate via network technology, eliminating the need for additional cables and facilitating installation in hard-to-reach areas. Furthermore, this setup reduces installation time and workplace clutter, enabling a quick and efficient deployment of the illuminated signal towers. Functions of signal towers with lights for machiness Signal towers with lights for machines are equipped with lenses of different colors, which indicate a typical status of the machine or process environment. The functions of these lights are decided by the system designer in response to machine or operator requirements. Today, signal towers with lights equipped with alarms are employed in various industrial settings because they help grab the attention of an operator who is outside the visible area of the signal tower. The flashing rate can be «Fast» or «Slow,» and can be controlled by a PLC. 4Hz is a typical fast flashing rate, while 2Hz is a slow flashing rate. Selection and Installation of Signal Towers Selecting signal tower lights for machines becomes easy when you have a deep understanding of the installation area. In many installations, these lights must be installed in areas where there can be heavy traffic due to mobile vehicles such as forklifts, overhead cranes, and people. Under such conditions, the signaling tower with lights may not function as expected. Therefore, it is important to consider various factors such as area selection, audible alarm, mounting options, and so on, before making a selection. Whether it's a busy workplace or a sparsely staffed one, the following are some important factors to help you make the right device selection. USEFUL CONTENT – Examples of Andon System Application and Integration in Industry with Practical Examples What factors should you consider when selecting and installing signal towers with lights in industrial environments? EnvironmentAlthough signaling towers with lights are designed for high-traffic and harsh work environments, it is important to consider the following factors during the selection phase: Room temperature Ensure the turrets can operate efficiently in the extreme temperatures of the environment where they will be installed. Moisture concentration: Evaluate whether the environment is humid or dry, as humidity can affect the operation of the turrets. Exposure to direct sunlight, heat, and dust: Consider whether the turrets will be exposed to direct sunlight, dust, or heat, which could degrade their performance and shorten their lifespan. Exposure to chemicals or other elements: If the turrets will be in contact with chemicals, ensure that the materials are resistant to corrosion and the effects of these products. Excessive vibrations In environments where machines generate a lot of vibrations, it is crucial to select turrets that can withstand them without failure. Exposure to hazardous environments If the turrets will be in hazardous areas, ensure they comply with the specific safety standards for those environments. Outdoor overuse: For outdoor applications, select turrets that can withstand weather and environmental conditions such as rain, wind, and extreme temperatures. MaterialsSignal towers with lights are available in a variety of materials and price ranges. Good quality light units like PATLITE towers are made of polycarbonate, while some feature metal housings. The polycarbonate construction provides durability to the light and allows them to withstand moisture, shock, and corrosion. There are certain factors such as light intensity, connectivity, and ease of installation that can affect the quality of the light. It is important to consider these factors before making a final decision. SizeThese lights are designed to be stackable and are easily visible from a long distance. PATLITE has improved visibility by adding extra LEDs within the towers. These LEDs ensure better visibility from busy workstations. The decision on the light size is affected by several factors, such as the length of the workspace, the dimensions of the machine or equipment it is used on, and so on. Lighting SourcesSignal towers with lights are illuminated using any of the following light sources: LEDs These light sources are well known for their exceptional brightness in dark environments. They offer the best illumination for most applications. In addition, LEDs can operate at low currents and withstand strong vibrations, making them suitable for high-production environments. LEDs are surface-mounted or leaded to signal towers with lights. Each of these types has its own set of benefits, however, surface-mounted types are suitable for high-vibration environments. The average lifespan of an LED used in signal towers with lights is 60,000 to 100,000 hours. Xenon Strobe Lights These light sources offer full-spectrum white light for very short durations. Highly efficient xenon strobes provide excellent visibility in large workspaces. They produce a strong light signal luminance, which is advantageous for long outdoor distances. The average lifespan of a xenon flash is 20,000 hours. Incandescent Turrets that use incandescent lamps are suitable for work areas exposed to other light sources or natural light. These bulbs require regular replacement and are less energy-efficient than LED lights. They are not recommended in environments with regular vibrations due to their lower durability. The lifespan of incandescent lights is from 7,000 to 12,000 hours, depending on the supply voltage. Each of these considerations is key to ensuring that the signal tower with lights you choose functions optimally in its specific environment. Andon light signaling tower provider for machines Ultatek is your reliable supplier for signal towers with Andon lights for your machines. Our signal towers not only guarantee high quality and durability, but also offer an efficient and visible solution for all your plant signaling needs. Designed to withstand harsh, high-traffic work environments, our towers provide clear and effective signaling, enhancing productivity and safety on your production line. Don't wait any longer! Improve your plant's efficiency and safety with Ultatek's Andon light signal towers. Visit our website or Contact us today for more information and to place your order..
