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In the world of industrial automation and manufacturing, a significant change is on the horizon. The familiar UPC barcode – a staple of product identification for nearly five decades – is evolving into a more sophisticated system. This transformation, known as "Sunrise 2027," will revolutionize how businesses handle product identification, tracking, and consumer interaction. Understanding the New Barcode Standard The industrial sector is moving beyond traditional one-dimensional barcodes to embrace an advanced two-dimensional (2D) system called GS1 Digital Link. This new technology combines the functionality of standard barcodes with the versatility of QR codes, creating a single solution that serves both point-of-sale systems and digital information sharing. By 2027, all retail point-of-sale systems are expected to have the capability to read these enhanced 2D barcodes. Benefits for Industry and Manufacturing This evolution in barcode technology brings significant advantages to industrial operations: * Enhanced Data Capabilities * Storage capacity for thousands of characters compared to traditional UPC's 12 digits * Direct access to digital product documentation and specifications * Improved supply chain visibility and traceability * Real-time access to product authenticity verification * Streamlined Operations * Single barcode for both consumer interaction and point-of-sale scanning * Reduced manual data entry requirements * More accurate inventory management * Enhanced product recall capabilities * Quality Control Benefits * Automated expiration date monitoring * Improved counterfeit prevention * Better control over product lifecycle management * Instant access to product safety information The Transition Period During the transition to the new system, manufacturers will need to implement a dual-marking approach: * Products will carry both traditional UPC barcodes and new 2D codes * This ensures compatibility across all scanning systems * Placement guidelines recommend positioning both codes horizontally adjacent to each other * The transition period allows businesses time to upgrade their scanning infrastructure What This Means for Industries The shift to GS1 Digital Link represents more than just a technical upgrade – it's a fundamental change in how products communicate information: * Supply Chain Enhancement * Better visibility from manufacturing to retail * Improved inventory accuracy * Enhanced traceability capabilities * More efficient recall procedures * Consumer Engagement * Direct access to product information * Enhanced transparency about product origins * Immediate access to usage instructions and safety information * Improved customer experience through digital connectivity Looking Ahead As we approach 2027, businesses across all industries will need to prepare for this technological shift. The transition to GS1 Digital Link represents a significant step forward in product identification and tracking capabilities. Understanding these changes now will help organizations better prepare for the future of industrial automation and supply chain management.

At Proax, we're always looking for ways to improve your shopping experience. Our latest website update introduces powerful new features designed to streamline your purchasing process and provide even more valuable information. Check out what’s new in October: ? Quote to Website Order Feature You can now easily convert your quotes into website orders with just a click! Whether you’re ready to place your order or need a quick follow-up, this feature makes it more convenient to move forward. ⚡Instant Availability for ABB and Phoenix Contact Get real-time stock availability information for ABB and Phoenix Contact products right on the product pages. This update will give you a clear view of the stock status for these two key brands, helping you make quicker purchasing decisions. ? Product Videos for Omron and Phoenix Contact We’ve also added video content to Omron and Phoenix Contact product pages. These videos provide a better understanding of the products in action, helping you choose the right solution with confidence. Log in to Proax.ca today to take advantage of these exciting new features, and stay tuned for more updates designed to make your job easier!

Explore Proax's September 2024 web update featuring new tools and improvements to enhance your shopping experience. From a clearance section to 3D models and easy part number copying, we’ve made it simpler to find and use the products you need. ?️ Clearance Section We now have a dedicated clearance section on the website featuring dead stock products at discounted prices. ?3D and CAD Models on product pages  We’ve integrated a new solution allowing users to view real-time 3D models and access CAD files for select products from Phoenix Contact, Rittal, Mersen, and Patlite. We’re also awaiting approval from ABB and Omron. ? Feedback for Product Information Errors You can now provide real-time feedback on product pages regarding data errors, pricing, lifecycle information, and more. ? Copy Part Numbers to Your Clipboard Easily You can now copy a part number directly from product pages with a single click. This will simplify the process of sharing and using part numbers. Obsolete Product Highlights Product pages is now highlighting obsolete products and their new replacements. PST Tax Exempt at Checkout Customers in British Columbia can now add their PST tax number at checkout page so that they don't need to contact us and wait for confirmation. Shop now

In hazardous environments, where combustible dust and flammable gases are present, safety is paramount.  And this is where the Alfred range by Fortress Interlocks really shines. At Proax, we understand that industrial environments have different safety needs. That's why we are pleased to offer Alfred – Explosive Atmospheres interlocks, designed in principle with full customization not only to meet but surpass your specific needs for safety. Why Customization Matters in Hazardous Locations No two hazardous locations are alike. From food and beverage processing to chemical processing to even the pharmaceuticals, each specific environment requires that the solutions for safety be an exact match. Keeping that in mind, the Alfred Series has been engineered with strong, heavy-duty interlocking devices that have been certified against some of the most challenging conditions, environments even including explosive atmospheres. The Power of Alfred’s Customization The Alfred interlocks are not one-size-fits-all solutions but can be customized to suit your peculiar safety needs. Pretty flexible, the actuators that fit, escape releases, and even up to three key adaptors positioned above an ex-rated switch or a solenoid module make for a really flexible Alfred interlock. From full mechanical to electromechanical, it is with Alfred that one can have solutions precisely custom-made to suit the specific needs of any given unit, thus ensuring the safety of your equipment against all explosion hazards. Built for Durability in the Harshest Conditions Manufactured from 316 stainless steel and rated to IP69, Alfred interlocks are built to last even in the most extreme of environments. They are capable of providing the highest levels of retention force up to 7 kN and are certified for use within areas where both gas and dust present specifically high risks or Zone 1 for gas and Zone 21 for dust. With this level of robustness, your safety systems will go on to give reliable performance even when things get really tough. Tailored Solutions for Every Application As a result, Alfred Range is quite versatile to apply in many differing areas. Here's how you could customize Alfred for your needs: Chemical and Pharmaceutical Industries. Explosion risks can be minimized in industries where the trend of flammable gases is more when the actuators are engineered as a high-level interlocks with the Alfred interlocks. They can also be located at places very near to the equipment for extra safety without compromising on efficiency. Food & Beverage Manufacturing Beverage Manufacturing Trapped keys and guard locking should be fitted on the Alfred range to ensure that application areas prone to combustible dusts do not have accidental start-ups. This is specifically meant to provide protection from physical injuries to operators and equipment. Wood, paper and pulp processing. The Alfred interlocks, with the possible strong escape releases and various key adaptors for on-setting, could also apply in dusty working environments, ensuring the safety package is very reliable and user-friendly. Why Choose Proax for Your Custom Safety Solutions? At Proax, we don’t just offer safety products—we offer safety solutions tailored to your needs. Our team of experts will work closely with you to configure the Alfred interlocks to meet your exact specifications. With certifications from ATEX, IECEx, UKEx, and North American HazLoc, you can trust that your customized Alfred solution will meet the highest safety standards. The Alfred – Explosive Atmospheres interlocks by Fortress Interlocks offer the ultimate in customization and safety for hazardous environments. Contact Proax today to discuss how we can configure an Alfred solution that meets the specific needs of your operation.

In industrial environments, ensuring the safety of operators during whole-body access is crucial. The Osbourn range, inspired by the inventor of the modern-day door handle, offers a robust solution to prevent unexpected machine start-up. At Proax, we are pleased to offer these ancillary safety devices from Fortress Interlocks. We design them to further improve the safety of your currently installed interlocks, sliding, and hinged guards, as well as light curtains. The Power of Osbourn It was named after Osbourn Dorsey, who had invented the door stopper. This epitomizes spirits of innovation in modern safety solutions. These are devices designed to impede unplanned start-up by interlocks and light curtains, keeping operators in the protected spaces free from possible injury or fatality. All the Osborne devices are plated for both easy mounting and proper installation, requiring no extra wiring to make them serviceable and effective in your safety systems. Why Supplementary Safety Matters When dealing with equipment that requires whole-body access, the risk of unexpected start-up poses a significant hazard. The positive inhibit features in the Osbourn devices mean that the machine cannot restart until all personnel are outside the safeguarded area.  Whether you need to enhance existing interlocks or light curtains, Osbourn provides a simple and effective solution without the need to replace or reprogram your current systems. Built for Durability and Flexibility Constructed from stainless steel, the Osbourn range is designed to operate in a wide variety of environments, including those requiring harsh wash-down procedures. These devices are compatible with both sliding and hinged guards and can be customized to suit specific applications. The addition of personnel keys and padlocks provides an extra layer of protection, ensuring that operators are safe before any machinery is restarted. Specialized Applications of Osbourn Devices The Osbourn range offers versatile solutions for various safety needs: Blocking Devices for Guards The IBL devices are designed to mechanically prevent the guard from closing, ensuring that the interlock safety contacts remain open while operators are inside the safeguarded space. These devices are available for both sliding (IBL-S) and hinged (IBL-H) guards. Blocking Devices for Light Curtains The PBL devices interrupt the light curtain beam by rotating a blocking plate, preventing the light curtain from remaking the signal and allowing unexpected start-up. The PBL devices are available in multiple configurations to support installation on different brands of light curtains. Why Choose Proax? At Proax, we are committed to providing safety solutions that enhance operational efficiency and protect your workforce. As an authorized distributor of Fortress Interlocks, we offer top-tier products like the Osbourn range, along with the expertise and support needed to integrate them effectively into your safety systems. The Osbourn Supplementary Safety Devices provide a reliable and straightforward solution to prevent unexpected start-up in your industrial environment. Contact Proax today to learn more about how Osbourn can enhance the safety of your operations.

In today's industrial environments, flexibility and reliability in safety solutions are essential. Proax is proud to introduce the tGard series: a medium-duty range of configurable access and control solutions from Fortress Interlocks. When manufacturing and industrial automation applications call for a system that is versatile yet compact, tGard can be configured to meet your exact safety needs. The Power of tGard The tGard range of interlocks and electrical operator controls are compactly designed and certified for use up to PLd/ Cat. 3 or SIL 2, while housed within a metal body. Constructed from robust aluminum for long life, its compact 40mm metal housing makes it suitable for a wide range of applications. Configurable in origin, the system allows users to select from a range of elements that will comprise their solution, including ergonomic actuators, handles, escape releases, and trapped keys, thus making this solution very versatile for all sorts of industrial applications. Why Configurability Matters One of the standout features of the tGard system is its configurability. With tGard, you can quickly select and build up to what you need to fit your application. Emergency stops, pushbuttons, lamps, and selector switches are all easily integrated with tGard into your safety system. This level of customization meets not only the needs of operations but also simplifies installation and reduces downtime. Built for Durability and Ease of Use The tGard system is designed to be hard-wearing and to survive harsh industrial environments. It means the specification for operating under demanding conditions: aluminum construction, IP65 rating, and 2,500N actuator retention force. Besides that, tGard is able to provide the possibility of quick, easy mounting on different surfaces, offering several pre-wiring options for added convenience. It also allows for up to 10 features per unit, including an integrated RFID option for high-level coded actuator functionality, and is one of the most efficient and versatile solutions for your machine guarding needs. Specialized Applications of tGard The tGard range is incredibly versatile and can be configured to serve various functions in machine guarding. Here are some key applications: 1. Access Control with Customization tGard can be configured with custom operator controls, including emergency stops, pushbuttons, and selector switches, all of which can be engraved with text or symbols to suit your needs. 2. Safety and Escape Solutions The system includes options for escape release and safety lock modules, ensuring that your operations remain secure and compliant with safety standards. 3. Advanced Guard Monitoring With an integrated RFID option, tGard allows for high-level coded actuator functionality, enabling guard monitoring up to PLe/Cat. 4. Why Choose Proax? Choosing the right safety system is crucial, and so is selecting the right partner. As an authorized distributor for Fortress Interlocks, Proax offers the best products combined with expertise and support for effective implementation. We are committed to providing solutions that enhance safety, efficiency, and reliability in your operations. Shop Fortress tGard Safety Solutions The tGard Medium Duty Configurable Access & Control Solutions by Fortress Interlocks offer a customizable, reliable, and durable solution for your machine guarding needs. Contact Proax today to learn more about how tGard can be configured to meet the specific safety requirements of your industrial environment.

Safeguarding complex operations with multiple sources of energy requires much safety and reliability. For that, Proax introduces the mGard Mechanical Trapped Key Interlocks manufactured by Fortress Interlocks. This innovative range of products offers cost-effective solutions that boast versatility in enforcing complex safety sequences, hence, making them exemplary choices for highly demanding industrial settings. The Power of mGard  The mGard system by Fortress provides a suite of mechanical trapped key interlocks to ensure key sequences that are important in the safety environment with multiple sources of energy, including electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems. These are sturdy interlocks that also eliminate the need for extensive electrical wiring, hence reducing installation and maintenance costs. Why Mechanical Interlocks Matter  For complex operations that involve multiple forms of energy, controls over the sequence of operation become highly important to safety. In such instances, the mGard system exhibits excellence, in which mechanical interlocks perform with respect to the right sequence of activity-right to preclude hazardous situations. Since the mGard system does not rely on programmable logic, the system is easily understood and quite reliable; it is also easily installed and maintained. Built for Durability and Flexibility  The mGard interlocks are designed for operation in the most challenging industrial environments. Constructed from both non-stainless and stainless steel, these interlocks are resistant to extreme conditions. The versatile design of the interlocking system allows them to be used across a wide range of applications where electrical isolation, pneumatic valve interlocking, or access control is required. Furthermore, the mGard range of products undergoes thorough testing and 3rd-party approval in ensuring they continue to meet the highest standards of safety and reliability. Specialized Applications of the mGard Mechanical Trapped Key Interlocks  The mGard range is versatile and can be customized to meet specific application requirements. Here are a few key areas where mGard interlocks provide critical safety solutions:  Control Interlocking  Whether you need key-operated switches, solenoid-controlled key switches, or time delay and voltage sensing solutions, the mGard range offers robust control interlocking systems that ensure operations are performed in the correct sequence.  Power Interlocking  For isolating various energy sources, mGard offers bolt modules for trapped key interlocking and pneumatic valve interlocking systems that effectively control and secure your operations.  Access Control  The mGard system also includes door access modules and actuators, providing secure access control that prevents unauthorized entry and ensures that all safety procedures are followed before access is granted.  Why Choose Proax?  Choosing the right safety system is essential, but so is choosing the right partner. As an authorized distributor of Fortress Interlocks, Proax provides not only top-tier products but also the expertise and support needed to implement them effectively. Our commitment to your safety and success means we’re with you every step of the way, from initial consultation to ongoing maintenance and support.  The mGard Mechanical Trapped Key Interlocks offer a reliable, cost-effective solution for enforcing safety sequences in complex industrial operations. Contact Proax today to learn more about how mGard can enhance the safety and efficiency of your workplace. 

In industries where hygiene and safety are critical, finding a solution that meets both requirements can be challenging.  At Proax, we are committed to providing you with products to protect your operations while upholding the highest standard of cleanliness. That is why we are proud to present Louis – Hygienic Guard Lock by Fortress Interlocks, a game-changing product specifically designed for an environment which requires rigorous wash-down and cleaning procedures. The Power of Louis – Hygienic Guard Lock  The Louis – Hygienic Guard Lock is not just a safeguard but an integrated solution of engineering that can bear the toughest cleaning environments and, at the same time, avoid bacterial growth in them. This advanced safety system is used for food and beverage manufacturing and pharmaceutical production because contamination control is highly crucial in these places. The Louis lock features an open stainless steel design and FDA-approved PBT rubber seals for the highest level of protection against water and foreign body ingress for clean-in-place procedures. Why Hygiene Standards Matter  In industries like food processing and pharmaceuticals, maintaining hygiene is non-negotiable. The Louis – Hygienic Guard Lock introduces the first-ever 3-A approved Hygienic Guard Lock, raising the bar to a whole new level. The design of the lock ensures few possibilities for accumulation of contaminants, thus making your process safe and sanitary. The Louis lock offers a high actuator retention force of 8,000N with IP 67/IP 69 ingress protection to perform under the most demanding conditions. Built for Durability and Cleanliness  The Louis – Hygienic Guard Lock has been manufactured with tough stainless steel 316 for wash-down environments with long-lasting durability. Its robust compact size is ideal for small guards, and the high-coded RFID actuator enables easy installation and ensures it meets all required safety performance levels. At Proax, we know how important durable safety solutions are, and the Louis lock delivers on all fronts. Specialized Applications of the Louis Hygienic Guard Lock  The Louis – Hygienic Guard Lock is versatile and suited for various industries where hygiene is critical. Here are a few examples of how this innovative product can be applied:  Food & Beverage Manufacturing  In environments where contamination can lead to severe consequences, the Louis – Hygienic Guard Lock ensures that equipment remains secure during cleaning processes, preventing accidental start-ups and maintaining high hygiene standards.  Pharmaceutical Production  For pharmaceutical companies, maintaining a sterile environment is essential. The Louis lock offers a reliable solution that meets the stringent standards required in this industry, ensuring that production remains safe and uncontaminated.  Wood, Paper & Pulp Processing  Even in industries like wood, paper, and pulp, where equipment faces harsh conditions, the Louis – Hygienic Guard Lock provides durable protection against contamination, ensuring both safety and hygiene.  Why Choose Proax?  Choosing the right safety system is vital, but so is choosing the right partner. As an authorized distributor of Fortress Interlocks, Proax is dedicated to providing not only the best safety products but also exceptional support and expertise. We’re here to help you integrate the Louis – Hygienic Guard Lock into your operations, ensuring that your workplace remains safe, clean, and compliant with the highest industry standards.  Shop all Fortress switches The Louis – Hygienic Guard Lock represents a significant advancement in safety and hygiene for industries where contamination control is critical. Contact Proax today to learn more about how this innovative product can enhance your operations and provide the ultimate protection for your workforce. 

What Are Electric Relays? Electromechanical relays are electrically operated switches that control circuits by opening and closing contacts. They receive an electrical signal from an external source and transmit it to other equipment by toggling the switch on or off. This mechanism allows relays to manage high-power applications with low-power signals, ensuring safe and efficient operations. Key Components of Electromechanical Relays Electromechanical relays consist of several critical components, each essential for their operation: 1. Electromagnet: This generates a magnetic field when energized. In electromagnetic relays, this component attracts the armature to open or close contacts. 2. Armature: A movable lever that responds to the electromagnet's magnetic field by moving to make or break connections with contacts. 3. Contacts: Metal pieces that open and close circuits within the relay. Examples include normally open (NO) and normally closed (NC) contacts, which define how the circuit behaves without power. 4. Spring: Provides tension to return the armature to its original position when de-energized, ensuring reliable operation. 5. Coil: A wire wound around a metal core, the coil generates an electromagnetic field when current passes through it, activating the relay. 6. Housing: Encloses all internal components, protecting them from physical damage and environmental factors like dust and moisture. 7. Frame: This heavy-duty structure holds all internal components together, providing support and protection. Understanding these core components offers insight into how relays work in various applications, from industrial automation to household appliances. How Do Electromechanical Relays Work? Electromechanical relays operate by utilizing an electromagnet to control the switching mechanism. When a low-power electrical signal energizes the electromagnet, it generates a magnetic field that attracts the armature. This movement causes the contacts to either open or close, depending on the relay's design. The components include: * Electromagnet: Generates a magnetic field when energized. * Armature: Moves in response to the magnetic field. * Spring: Returns the armature to its original position when de-energized. * Contacts: Open or close circuits based on armature position. In operation, electromechanical relays convert small electrical inputs into larger currents for high-power applications. They ensure precise control over devices such as industrial machinery and household appliances without direct human intervention. Understanding how these relays work is essential for grasping their role in managing complex electrical systems efficiently and safely. Phoenix Contact Electromechanical Relays Phoenix Contact offers versatile electromechanical relays suited for various industrial applications. The PLC-INTERFACE series combines a relay interface and electronic fuse within a compact width of just 6.2 mm, optimizing space in control cabinets. These relays feature configurable nominal current and shutdown behavior via DIP switches, enhancing adaptability. Check out this video for an in-depth look at the PLC INTERFACE relay series, featuring insights from Phoenix Contact experts: Their RIFLINE complete series includes universal industrial relays designed for coupling, timer functions, or replacing miniature contactors. This series supports all standard relay applications such as signal isolation, multiplication, and amplification. The plug-in design ensures quick installation and reliable operation. Both the PLC-INTERFACE and RIFLINE complete relays support reduced wiring efforts through comprehensive accessories like bridging options and system cabling solutions. Compatibility with existing installations allows seamless integration for function extension. These features make Phoenix Contact electromechanical relays ideal for diverse uses in automation systems, power controls, and other technological fields where efficient signal management is crucial. Shop Phoenix Contact Electromechanical Relays Types of Electromechanical Relays Electromechanical relays come in various types, each designed for specific applications and operational environments. These include General Purpose Relays, Machine Control Relays, and Reed Relays. General Purpose Relays General purpose relays are versatile components used in numerous applications. They manage low to moderate power loads and find uses in household appliances, automotive systems, and industrial controls. These relays offer reliable performance with a simple design comprising an electromagnet and a set of contacts. Machine Control Relays Machine control relays are essential in industrial automation. They handle high-power circuits required for operating machinery and automated processes. Featuring robust construction, these relays ensure reliability under demanding conditions. Examples include motor starters and overload protection devices employed in manufacturing plants. Reed Relays Reed relays consist of reed switches encased within a coil. Their compact size makes them ideal for applications needing fast switching speeds with minimal space requirements. Common uses include telecommunications equipment, medical devices, and instrumentation systems where precise control is crucial. Understanding the different types of electromechanical relays helps optimize their use across varied technological fields. If you're unsure which electromechanical relay is best suited for your industrial needs, don't hesitate to contact us. Our team of experts at Proax is ready to assist you in finding the perfect solution for your application.

SMC’s control valve series is renowned for its adaptability and performance across a wide range of industries. With a diverse portfolio designed to meet the specific needs of sectors such as automotive, electronics, food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and more, SMC valves are engineered to deliver precise control and reliability. Whether managing air, gas, or liquid flows, these SMC valves are integral to automation systems, offering industry-specific features that enhance efficiency, reduce energy consumption, and ensure safety. Automotive In the automotive sector, SMC’s SY series and VQC series valves have become a game-changer. SY valves not only offer up to 80% higher flow rates than previous models, but their compact design allows for more flexible installation options. Whether you need side, top, or bottom porting, the SY series can adapt to your specific requirements. This adaptability is particularly useful in automotive assembly lines, where space is at a premium, and every component must work seamlessly with others to keep the line moving efficiently. Shop SMC JSY Directional Control Valves Food and Beverage For food and beverage manufacturing plant, in such an environment, hygiene and efficiency are top priorities. SMC’s JSY-H clean design valve manifold has a crevice-free exterior for low fluid accumulation and is easy to clean. With its IP69K enclosure, the use of NSF-H1 grease, FDA-compliant material, and Stainless-steel metal parts makes it the perfect solution where high-pressure cleaning is required, It is available in manifold with IO-Link field bus option and as a standalone unit as well. Robotic Automation Another great example is in robotic automation. SMC’s JSY 5-Port directional control valve series is specifically designed for use on robotic arms and for end-of-arm tools. These valves are incredibly compact and lightweight, yet they offer improved flow characteristics, making them ideal for fast-paced automation tasks where precision and speed are critical. In a factory setting, these valves can be used to control the robotic end of arms that handle delicate assembly tasks, ensuring that every movement is executed with the utmost accuracy. Medical In the medical industry, where equipment must meet stringent regulatory standards, SMC’s cleanroom directional control valve products are indispensable. The directional control valves used in cleanrooms are manufactured under strict conditions, ensuring they are free from contaminants. These valves are essential in applications such as drug manufacturing and medical device production, where even the smallest impurity can have serious consequences. Contact us today to further discuss your needs and discover more about SMC valves. Our experts are here to provide tailored solutions that drive efficiency and performance.