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Functional Safety - SIL

Plant planning/Process reliability/SIL

Safety integrity level SIL

Implementation of Safety Integrity Level (SIL) According to IEC/DIN EN 61508: Ensuring Functional Safety

Fundamentals

Modern control systems with safety tasks increasingly use complex microsystem technology that meets current technical standards. To ensure this technology meets safety-related requirements, specific standards for functional safety must be adhered to. In addition to ISO/DIN EN 13849 and IEC/DIN EN 62061, IEC/DIN EN 61508 is applied in the machinery sector due to its broad international acceptance.

Applying IEC 61508 poses a particular challenge as it considers not only components but also the safety function throughout the entire lifecycle of a machine or plant. This requires detailed documentation and quantification of safety-related reliability, often necessitating consultation for those developing safety-related electronic products and those using and operating them.

DMT ENCOS Standards

DMT ENCOS applies the following standards to ensure the functional safety of safety-related systems:

  • IEC 61508 Parts 1 – 7: Functional safety of safety-related electrical/electronic/programmable systems.
  • IEC 61511 Parts 1 – 3: Functional safety – Safety instrumented systems for the process industry.
  • EN 50 129: Safety-related electronic signaling systems.

Steps for SIL Implementation

Requirements are divided into stages that measure system reliability based on hazard levels. These stages protect employee health, the environment, and property. Safety functions are realized through safety logic, consisting of various resources such as sensors, control elements, and actuators.

Operators of plants with safety-related functions determine the Safety Integrity Level (SIL) through a risk assessment. This assessment considers failure behavior, the presence of redundant structures, and whether the safety function should be continuously or on-demand monitored. Classification is based on the interconnection of various resources (sensors, actuators, control elements, etc.) rather than individual components.

Our Services

DMT ENCOS offers comprehensive services to support SIL implementation:

  • Conducting SIL Calculations: We calculate the Safety Integrity Level for your systems to ensure the required reliability and safety. Our experts use advanced methods and tools to perform precise calculations and ensure compliance with standards.
  • Support in Creating Machine-Specific Risk Assessments: We assist you in analyzing and evaluating system functions and their hazards to optimize the functional safety of your plants. Our interdisciplinary teams work closely with you to develop tailored solutions that meet the specific requirements of your projects.
  • Consultation on Selection and Implementation of Safety-Related Components: We advise you on selecting suitable components and systems that meet IEC 61508 requirements. This includes evaluating sensors, actuators, and control elements and integrating these components into your existing systems.
  • Training and Education: We offer training and education for your team to deepen understanding of functional safety and SIL implementation. Our training is designed to enable your employees to effectively operate and maintain safety-related systems.

Benefits of SIL Implementation

Implementing the Safety Integrity Level (SIL) offers numerous benefits. It ensures compliance with legal regulations and international standards, increases the reliability and safety of your systems, and minimizes the risk of failures and accidents. By applying IEC 61508, you can ensure that your plants meet the highest safety requirements while maximizing efficiency and productivity.

Additional services

More efficiency for your projects - with our additional services.