Lasermet has supported STMicroelectronics with laser safety systems for a number of years, with installations developing alongside the company’s laboratory facilities and changing safety requirements.
Our latest case study takes a closer look at the work carried out at STMicroelectronics’ Edinburgh site, where multiple laser laboratories have been equipped with Lasermet interlock systems and associated laser safety equipment.
Read the full STMicroelectronics case study to see the complete installation, photographs and further details of the laser safety systems used.
From ICS-6 to ICS-9 Interlock Control System
The relationship began with the installation of an ICS-6 Interlock Control System. As the facilities expanded, additional laboratories were fitted with Lasermet’s newer ICS-9 Interlock Control Systems.
The principal installation now covers four separate laser rooms, with each laboratory controlled by its own dedicated interlock controller.
Depending on the requirements of each laboratory, the systems incorporate equipment including door interlocks, emergency-stop push buttons, remote arm units, illuminated warning signs, laser-blocking curtains and blinds, and network monitoring equipment.
Centralised Monitoring with CaLM
One of the key features of the installation is Lasermet’s Control and Laser Monitoring (CaLM) system.
CaLM allows personnel to view the status of multiple laboratories from dedicated screens, including whether individual laboratories are armed, safe or operating in maintenance mode.
This provides a centralised overview of the laser areas without requiring each interlock controller to be checked individually.
Interlocked Laser-Blocking Curtains and Blinds
The installation also includes laser-blocking curtains and roller blinds in areas where a conventional fixed wall or door would not provide the flexibility required.
These barriers are integrated into the interlock system so that hazardous laser operation is only permitted when the relevant curtain or blind is correctly positioned and secured.
A Modular and Expandable Approach to Laser Safety
The STMicroelectronics project demonstrates how a laser safety system can grow alongside a laboratory facility.
By combining ICS-9 interlock controllers, access interlocks, emergency stops, illuminated warning signs, laser-blocking barriers and CaLM monitoring, Lasermet has provided a coordinated safety solution that can continue to expand as the site’s requirements develop.
Read the full STMicroelectronics case study to see the complete installation, photographs and further details of the laser safety systems used.
