Infrared switching for high-hygiene dispensing and actuating tasks

Simple in operation and easily installed in new equipment or as a retrofitted replacement, Herga’s 6461 series infrared non-contact switches provide a safe, functional and cost-effective alternative to manual switches for dispensing and vending equipment as high-hygiene becomes more and more critically important. 

Herga has manufactured this product for several years and, tried and tested with high-reliability and widespread use in a diverse range of applications from medical laboratories to leisure facilities, this practical IR switch has a sensing range from 75 to 100mm and is available in a wide choice of materials and switching options.

Herga’s 6461 is available in open collector or transistor output versions and with a low current consumption of less than 3mA, can be configured for momentary, latching or timer delay switching. 

An electrical rating of up to 2A at 30V AC or DC (Nominal 12V to 24V) allows an output capable of switching a suitable relay, solenoid or direct connection to the controlled equipment.

The IR sensor element is set behind a protective acrylic lens with a light source that is modulated to reduce nuisance operation due to ambient light. 

With an overall IP67 rating, the sensor is epoxy encapsulated in a 33mm diameter threaded housing, available in a choice of ABS or stainless steel and complete with locking nut for flexible use in normal or vandal-resistant installations. 

A fully sealed front escutcheon plate, also in a choice of stainless steel or ABS with an attractive chrome plated finish, allows the entire switch to be washed down with suitable cleaning fluids for complete hygiene protection. Temperature operating range is from -5 to +40˚C.

The 6461 switch’s sensitivity allows operation of the switch without any actual contact – with infrared detection of objects such as a finger or a hand at a distance of approximately 70mm. 

Special versions can be adapted to detect large objects such as a person or other parts of the body from distances up to 500mm. This flexibility allows far-reaching dispensing and vending tasks on high hygiene equipment for water, soap and cleansing gels, etc. And also as non-contact actuation of dryers, door openers and many other devices used in medical and laboratory fields as well as public conveniences, airports and other environments – where hygienic measures are nowadays so essentially important.