Frequently Asked Questions

What does it do?
The PCS series of high speed, low cost Positive Contact System probes are for detecting the presence or absence of an object. Mounted on a machine tool, they can detect a broken tool such as a drill, reamer or tap.

They can also work in ‘reverse’ mode where it can be used to detect the absence of an object. This can be used to check to see if a part has been parted off on a lathe or whether a part has been loaded or unloaded correctly.

How does it work?
Very simply! For broken tool detection, the unit is mounted where the sensing needle can come in contact with the tool. When a check is required, the arm swings across to contact with the tool. If the tool is present, the unit outputs an ‘OK’ signal & the machine continues. If the tool is broken, the arm will swing past where the tool should be and outputs a ‘FAULT’ signal.

For ensuring that an object is absent, the unit is set in ‘reverse’ mode. Here the arm swings in the same way except that the unit outputs a ‘FAULT’ signal if it touches the part and an ‘OK’ signal if it is absent.

Can the units be fitted to different types of machine?
Yes. The PCS units can be fitted to just about any type of machine whether manual, automatic, semi-automatic, relay controlled, PLC controlled or CNC controlled. Typical applications include CNC lathes, automatic lathes, multi spindle lathes, sliding head lathes and linear and rotary transfer machines. They have also been fitted to conveyor systems and gantry/robot loaders.

Can PCS be used with coolant?
Yes, the PCS units are built to the highest IP rating enabling them to be used with flood coolant. They can even work submerged!

How reliable are they?
Extremely. The PCS units are designed & built to have a very high duty factor in harsh environments. This is backed up by a TWO-YEAR NO QUIBBLE warranty.

Can the units be self-fitted?
A qualified electrician or machine tool service engineer should fit these units. The control unit is simple to set up and both the ‘OK’ and ‘FAULT outputs can be configured for NO or NC contacts and can be momentary or latching. Brixis can arrange to have a trained system integrator to install the unit for you at a modest cost.

Is the system expensive?
Expense is relative. Certainly in terms of having a unit fitted to a new machine tool, the additional expense is negligible. Even retrofitting a unit is not expensive. In the USA, 100% of units fitted see a return on investment of 3 months and a staggering 82% see a return on investment of less than ONE MONTH. Can you afford to be without a PCS tool monitoring system?