By expanding the communication capabilities of the tGard range, Fortress Safety has a certified interlocking device ready for IO-Link Safety. In a recent interview, Fortress experts discussed what this means for customers, the development journey, and which industries stand to benefit the most.

Why IO-Link Safety Matters for Interlocking Devices

There are several advantages to using safety devices such as interlocks on IO-Link Safety, especially for organisations looking to modernise and simplify their safety architecture.

Seamless Integration

Interlocking devices like tGard can communicate directly with the IO-Link Safety master. This eliminates the need for hardwiring individual safety relays or relying solely on conventional fieldbus systems. It streamlines integration, making the entire safety network smarter and more efficient.

Reduced Cabling and Installation Costs

Devices are engineered to work via a 5-pin M12 connector for both power and data. This feature reduces cabling complexity, cuts installation time, and saves costs, especially on larger systems where wiring traditionally adds up quickly.

Enhanced Diagnostic Data and Predictive Maintenance

Users can monitor device performance, assess operating times, identify fault trends, and act before failures occur. This improves uptime and supports predictive maintenance strategies.

Plug-and-Play Device Replacement

If a tGard unit needs to be swapped out, the system automatically recognises the new device and restores the previous configuration, with minimal downtime and no need for reprogramming.

Developing and Certifying IO-Link Safety Interlocks

Fortress was the first interlock manufacturer to receive both conformance and functional safety certification for an IO-Link Safety device from TÜV SÜD. Third-party certifications provide customers with greater confidence that the device meets the relevant requirements and is suitable for integration into safety-critical systems.

In addition, the company has worked closely with technology partners and industry groups throughout the process to ensure our products are reliable, interoperable, and ready for the market.

Which Sectors Are Best Suited to IO-Link Safety?

This safety data communication technology is ideal for any facility where safety, uptime, and operational insights are crucial. With a 20-metre point-to-point radius, IO-Link Safety allows multiple safety devices to connect to a single safety master.

This kind of scalability makes it particularly effective for automated lines or distributed manufacturing cells. Sectors that demand high configurability, rapid changeovers, and minimal disruption are the ones where IO-Link Safety provides clear advantages.

Future Perspectives

The integration of IO-Link Safety into the tGard range marks a significant step forward for Fortress, and positions the company as a leader in delivering future-ready solutions to support the customers’ digital transformation goals. With smarter integration, real-time data access, and simplified system maintenance, the Fortress is helping enhance safety while enabling greater operational efficiency.