Safety guarding fences are essential for industrial robot and automation equipment isolation. They are composed of mesh panels, posts, and accessories, designed to contain or capture materials, workpieces, chips, or liquids that machines may throw or drop. They also help reduce emissions from machines, such as noise, radiation, and harmful substances like dust, smoke, and gases. Choosing the appropriate safety guarding panel material plays a crucial role in fulfilling these functions.
Types of Fence Panels
There are various types of panel materials commonly used, each with its own unique advantages and applications. These include wire mesh, polycarbonate (PC) panels, metal sheets, arc-proof panels, and tool panels. Below, we provide an overview of each type and their typical use cases.
01｜Welding Fence Panels
Welding fence panels are typically made from carbon steel wires and rectangular tubes, welded together to create a high-strength barrier. These panels are robust, corrosion-resistant, and offer high tensile strength. The mesh structure is tightly spaced to prevent workers from accessing hazardous areas while maintaining visibility and airflow. Due to their cost-effectiveness and versatility, wire mesh panels are commonly used in spaces requiring visual monitoring and ventilation, such as warehouses and factory workshops.
02｜PC (Polycarbonate) Panels
Polycarbonate (PC) panels are high-performance engineering plastic sheets known for their transparency, weather resistance, and impact resistance. These panels are ideal for situations where workers need to monitor machine operations but also require protection from flying debris and impacts. PC panels are commonly used in machine operation areas where safety must be maintained without sacrificing visibility.
03｜Metal Sheets
Metal sheet panels, typically made from steel, are strong, durable, and aesthetically pleasing. They are particularly effective at preventing chips or fragments generated by machines from scattering and injuring workers. Metal sheet panels come in various thicknesses and heights, allowing for customization to meet different safety requirements.
04｜Arc-Proof Panels
Arc-proof panels are designed to block and absorb harmful light rays, such as welding arcs, infrared, and laser light. These panels are essential in environments requiring isolation from such hazardous light sources. For example, they are often used in automated welding stations and metal processing workshops to shield workers from welding arcs and metal-cutting light.
05｜Tool Panels
Tool panels are steel panels with a perforated design, allowing for the flexible placement and storage of tools or equipment. These panels not only offer the durability of steel but also optimize space and enhance workplace cleanliness and safety. Tool panels are especially suitable for workstations where efficient tool management and quick access are needed, contributing to streamlined 7S management practices.
Choosing the Right Material for Your Fence Panels
When selecting the appropriate panel material, it is essential to consider the type of splashes or emissions produced by the equipment, such as noise, radiation, or explosive environments. This will guide the choice of material and surface treatment for the panels.
Selecting the Color of Fence Panels
The color of guarding panels should be chosen based on visibility and the surrounding environment. Guidelines from GB/T8196 (sections 5.9 and 5.22) offer detailed recommendations. For example, brightly colored panels can highlight danger when the protective device is open or unused, while transparent or perforated panels used for observation should avoid overly vibrant colors, such as yellow, which could interfere with monitoring processes.
At Vichnet, we understand that every industrial environment has unique safety needs. With our extensive design capabilities and deep industry expertise, we are committed to providing customized fencing systems that combine functionality, safety, and aesthetics. From initial consultation to on-site inspection, design, and installation, we work closely with businesses to ensure that the delivered solution meets their specific requirements and site conditions.
