Exida certifies Asco Numatics solenoid valves for IEC 61508

June 11, 2009

SELLERSVILLE, Pa. -- exida, a global supplier of functional safety products, services and certifications, has certified the design and engineering processes for ASCO Numatics 551/552/553 Series solenoid valves and the 8314, 8316, 8320 3-Way/2-Position solenoid valves.

“ASCO Numatics has demonstrated that its development processes and product characteristics meet the requirements of the IEC 61508 safety standard,” says exida Partner Chris O’Brien. “The results of the detailed audit are documented in exida’s SafetyCase tool that ensures all relevant requirements of standard are satisfied.”

O’Brien says exida’s stringent probabilistic analysis uses a Failure Mode Effect and Diagnostic Analysis (FMEDA) that generates accurate failure rate data. The certification also requires manufactures to develop a safety manual available to end users.

“exida has the technical capability needed to certify mechanical devices,” says ASCO Numatics senior marketing manager Bill Reeson. “The exida analysts have a strong understanding of the mechanical design process. This certification will give our customers additional confidence in our design processes and products.”