Interlocks

Trapped Key Interlocks are mechanical locking devices used to control safety-critical operating procedures.

The interlocks can be fitted to a wide range of control devices including power switches, access doors and hatches, as well as valves of all types.

The transfer of keys from one interlock to another compels operators to follow predetermined sequences of operation.

Interlock Applications

Lock Types

Interlocks Site Survey

Introduction to Interlocks

A trapped key interlock system greatly reduces the risk of accidental or unauthorized operation of equipment. Interlocks are designed to be permanently fitted to their host equipment, whether that is valves, switches or machine guards.

In the case of safety critical process pipeline valve systems, a risk assessment will determine the likely consequences of inadvertent valve operation. The same rules of risk assessment apply to manufacturing operations where cleaning and maintenance workers need periodic access to potentially dangerous moving parts. Integrating a key interlock system with guarding systems on machinery can provide a high integrity safety control system which compels workers to follow pre-determined steps which isolate energy sources while maintenance work takes place.

In high pressure working environments, where commitment to production deadlines may exist workers can become distracted, increasing the potential to make mistakes at crucial times. When operating machinery or process plant, even a simple mistake can have serious consequences – and not just for the individual doing the work.

If the consequences could lead to a major incident resulting in significant loss; whether that be loss of product, damage to equipment, injury or death to personnel then a trapped key interlock system from Valtorx is the only viable solution.

Key Interlocks have been in existence for almost 100 years. They provide a purely mechanical method of implementing safe working practices and, unlike electronic control systems, are often considered infallible. Even when power systems fail, the trapped key interlock system maintains a last line of defence against potential injury. Operating keys with unique codes are passed from Interlock to Interlock within the system, making it impossible to not complete the work safely. Even if the Operator is unfamiliar with the task to be undertaken or becomes distracted in some way, the key Interlocks ensure the job is always completed correctly and safely.

Valtorx have a range of key operated mechanical interlocks that compel any operator to adhere to a strict pre-determined sequence of operation.

Our Expertise

Because interlocks are a niche product, the pool of knowledge and expertise is small and it can be hard to find a supplier who fully understands how to implement a complete interlock system for your operating procedure. At Valtorx we have over 50 years of industry experience. We believe that by freely sharing information and knowledge we can highlight the strengths and benefits of interlock systems to those who would benefit from them most.

Valtorx aims to simplify the implementation of key interlock systems by providing clear and concise advice. First we listen to your inquiry to fully understand your requirements, objectives and needs. Only when we understand your specific requirements can we give good, qualified advice.

Valtorx offers a range of standard key interlock products for Safety Relief Valves, Pig Launchers and Receivers, Fuel and Chemical Delivery, Machine Guarding, Tanker Loading and more. Across these applications, we have a wide variety of lock types available to suit any requirement, including Power Isolation, Access Locks, Key Exchange Units and much more. If you have a familiarity with Interlock systems then you can browse our list of Applications or our list of Lock Types to see how an Interlock system will safeguard your operating process.

Browse Applications

Browse Lock Types

If you are not familiar with Interlocks then Valtorx is here to help. We can design interlock systems for any and all industries and environments. In the past we have developed inerlock systems for robot cells, millers, grinders, crushers, balers, industrial oven interlock systems, conveyors, shears and so much more.

Our expertise as experienced engineers allows us to offer design capability for the most complex procedures and host equipment. In doing so, we can design out complexity and design-in simplicity and integrity. We will provide you with fast, accurate unbiased advice and opinions on your application(s) and we offer this service free of charge.

We can even visit your workplace and undertake a site survey to best understand your exact requirements.

Interlock Site Survey

If an Interlock system from Valtorx would be of benefit to you then please contact us to discuss your requirements.

Bespoke Solutions

Sometimes off the shelf solutions just don’t quite work to our customer’s requirements. In these situations, we use our decades of engineering skill and knowledge to devise a more bespoke interlock system that will be the solution to their problems.

After a consultation, and often a site visit, to evaluate your needs and requirements we develop a suitable and appropriate solution. We can carry out detailed dimensional surveys of all valves or pieces of equipment that need an interlock in place. From this information gathered we design, prototype and manufacture the mounting solutions required to fit the interlocks to the valves in question.

At all times we communicate our findings and recommendations in an easy to understand way, making it easy for you to decide on the way ahead.

Bespoke solutions are best understood by Valtorx following an Interlock Site Survey, please click the link below for further information.

Interlock Site Survey

If a bespoke interlock solution is what you require to get a critical operating procedure under control then please contact us to further discuss your requirements on +44 (0)3333 401777.

Portable Valve Actuators

Portable Valve Actuators are tools that allow the easy turning of difficult valves. Portable Valve Actuators take away the physical strain of the process as well as speeding up productivity of valve wheel turning. With electric, hydraulic and petrol motor options available, as well as wide range of adaptor heads and accessories, Valtorx can devise a portable valve actuator solution for any and all valve types.

Find out More