The question of the future has always revolved around new technologies – and what they mean for us. This also applies to mechanical engineering, for which digitization and the advancing (radio) networking of machines and systems represent both challenge and opportunity in equal measure.
By equipping plants with radio technologies, manufacturers who want to bring their products to market are faced with new regulatory requirements. On the other hand, there are users of connected systems whose efficiency gains in production depending on the functionality and performance of their machinery.
Regulatory requirements and performance in use. This is a broad field in mechanical engineering in which we support our customers with advice and assistance.
As a manufacturer of machines and systems, the Machinery Directive is the first standard for the market approval of devices. This directive primarily comprises specifications, which particularly concern machine safety with regard to the user.
With the advancing digitalization and the associated networking of devices, machines and production facilities, the requirements for the approval of devices are changing considerably.
Even the use of a single radio module (e.g. Bluetooth, WLAN or 2G/3G/LTE/5G) means that the Radio Equipment Directive 2014/53/EU must also be applied for CE marking.
In addition, users of industrial machinery are faced with the challenge of being able to take advantage of the benefits of digitization of production facilities. Only a functioning connectivity of the equipment helps on the way to networking.
The Radio Equipment Directive (“RED”) 2014/53/EU has been mandatory since 13 June 2017 for all radio equipment falling within the scope of this directive. After a transitional period, the Directive completely replaced the R&TTE Directive from that date onwards.
The mentioned scope of application concerns all equipment and machinery using a radio module, regardless of whether (previously) other specifications and directives are used (e.g. Machinery Directive).
As long as the underlying standards are harmonized, manufacturers have the possibility to issue a self-declaration (EU Declaration of Conformity), the involvement of a Notified Body Radio is therefore optional.
If a Notified Body is included, he or she will issue an EU type examination certificate for the manufacturer after checking all test reports and reviewing the submitted documents. This often facilitates the certification process for international tests.
Do you need help with the approval of machines and systems with radio technologies? Please contact us – we will be glad to help you.
Security, data throughput, availability – characteristics that are inseparably linked to an efficient production facility.
With more than 25 years of experience in connectivity and wireless networking, combined with our expertise in mechanical engineering, we are your ideal partner for networking your production facilities:
Do you need support in networking your production facilities? With our expertise in radio technology and our many years of experience in the field of mechanical engineering, we are at your disposal as a competent partner.
