Critical Safety Function

The primary safety function of the RSe Series pressure select valve is to supply the default safe pressure from port 2 whenever a fault occurs within the valve mechanism. However, unlike conventional pressure control solutions, the RSe Series achieves this critical safety function with the same level of control reliability expected from Category 4, Performance Level e safety circuits.

Advanced Safety Features and Certifications

Highest Safety Performance Ratings

The ROSS RSe Series meets the most stringent international safety standards for machine control systems:

Safety Category 4 per ISO 13849-1:2015 - The highest category for safety-related control systems, ensuring single fault tolerance with diagnostic capability

Performance Level e (PL e) per ISO 13849-1:2015 - Provides the maximum level of risk reduction for high-severity hazards with frequent exposure

Safety Integrity Level 3 (SIL 3) per IEC 62061:2001 - Certified for safety functions requiring high reliability and integrity

DGUV Certification - German Statutory Accident Insurance functional safety approval (HSM 21030)

These certifications demonstrate the valve's capability to protect operators in the most demanding industrial environments, from mechanical power presses to automated welding stations.

Redundant Control Architecture

The RSe Series valves feature redundant 5/2 spool-type valve construction with two independent valve elements, each controlled by separate solenoids that must operate synchronously. This redundancy ensures that a single fault within the valve mechanism does not lead to loss of the safety function, meeting the fundamental requirement for Category 4 systems.

The dual spool and sleeve design provides exceptional dirt tolerance and wear compensation, ensuring reliable performance even in harsh manufacturing environments. Each valve element includes stainless steel spools for durability and Buna-N seals for consistent sealing performance across the operating temperature range of 40°F to 120°F.

External Monitoring with High Diagnostic Coverage

Each single valve element in the RSe Series is equipped with a PNP solid-state proximity sensor for position sensing. When both sensors are monitored during each actuation and de-actuation cycle, the system achieves an exceptional diagnostic coverage of 99%. This high diagnostic coverage is essential for detecting potential faults before they can compromise the safety function.

The external monitoring capability requires integration with customer-supplied safety equipment such as safety PLCs or safety relays. The monitoring system must be capable of inhibiting valve operation when discordance is detected, with a maximum recommended allowable discordance time of 250 milliseconds.

This external monitoring approach offers significant advantages in modern safety systems, providing flexibility to integrate with advanced safety controllers while enabling detailed diagnostic information and predictive maintenance capabilities.

Technical Specifications and Performance Data

Operating Parameters

Valve Function: 5/2 Normally Closed configuration

Operating Pressure Range:

• With Internal Pilot Supply: 43 to 145 psig (3 to 10 bar)
• With External Pilot Supply: 0 to 145 psig (0 to 10 bar)

Flow Media: Compressed air according to ISO 8573-1 Class 7:4:4

Ambient Temperature: 40° to 120°F (4° to 50°C)

Actuation: Electrical solenoid pilot controlled with air-assisted spring return

Reset Type: Automatic reset by de-energizing solenoids

Minimum Operation Frequency: Once per month to ensure proper function

Electrical Specifications

Operating Voltage: 24 volts DC

Power Consumption: 1.5 watts per solenoid (rated for continuous duty)

Solenoid Connection: DIN EN 175301-803 Form C

Enclosure Rating: IP 65 per DIN 40050

Sensor Type: PNP solid-state proximity sensors

Sensor Current Consumption: Less than 23mA per sensor

Sensor Connection: M8 connector

Reliability and Functional Safety Data

B10D Value: 20,000,000 cycles - Represents the number of cycles until 10% of valves experience a dangerous failure

PFHD (Probability of Dangerous Failure per Hour): 7.71 × 10⁻⁹

MTTFD (Mean Time to Dangerous Failure): 301.9 years (based on 662,400 annual operation cycles)

Diagnostic Coverage: High (99%)

Vibration/Impact Resistance: Tested to DIN EN 60068-2-6

These exceptional reliability metrics demonstrate the valve's suitability for critical safety applications requiring long-term dependable performance.

Available Configurations and Model Selection

Port Size Options

The RSe Series offers three standard port configurations to match various flow requirements:

1/8" Ports (Model A10)

• Inlet/Outlet Flow (Ports 2-1 and 4-1): 0.9 CV (860 Nl/min)
• Exhaust Flow (Ports 3 and 5): 0.7 CV (640 Nl/min)
• Weight: 2.9 lb (1.3 kg)
• Compact design ideal for smaller actuators and confined spaces

1/4" Ports (Model B20)

• Inlet/Outlet Flow (Ports 2-1 and 4-1): 1.1 CV (1,100 Nl/min)
• Exhaust Flow (Ports 3 and 5): 0.8 CV (830 Nl/min)
• Weight: 3.7 lb (1.7 kg)
• Balanced performance for general industrial applications

1/2" Ports (Model B40)

• Inlet/Outlet Flow (Ports 2-1 and 4-1): 3.5 CV (3,400 Nl/min)
• Exhaust Flow (Ports 3 and 5): 1.8 CV (1,700 Nl/min)
• Weight: 6.6 lb (2.99 kg)
• High-flow capacity for demanding applications with large actuators

Model Number Configuration Guide

RSe Series model numbers follow a systematic structure for easy specification:

RSe - 6 - E - D/N - [Size] - A - 3 - 1 - P

• RSe: Series designation
• 6: Sensor type (PNP proximity sensor)
• E: 24V DC voltage
• D or N: Port thread type (D = G thread, N = NPT thread)
• A10/B20/B40: Base port size (1/8", 1/4", 1/2")
• A: Automatic reset
• 3: External monitoring
• 1: 5/2 valve function
• P: Sensor feedback

Example model numbers: RSe6ENA10A31P, RSe6EDB20A31P 

Industrial Applications and Use Cases

Clamping Operations with Variable Force Control

The RSe Series excels in clamping applications where different force levels are required during production versus maintenance or setup operations. For example, in automotive assembly lines, components may require full clamping force during welding or fastening operations but must reduce to safe levels when operators need access to adjust fixtures or load parts.

The typical clamping circuit diagram included in the catalog demonstrates proper integration with pneumatic cylinders and pressure supplies. This configuration enables manufacturers to maintain production efficiency while ensuring operator safety during necessary interventions.

Pneumatic clamping systems using RSe valves offer significant advantages in automated manufacturing environments, including fast actuation times, consistent clamping forces, and the flexibility to adapt to various workpiece sizes and shapes. The safety pressure select function ensures that even if electrical controls fail, the system defaults to the lower, safer pressure setting.

Welding Automation and Fabrication

In automated welding circuits, the RSe Series provides critical pressure control for positioning fixtures, clamps, and tooling. Welding operations typically require firm holding forces to maintain part alignment during the welding process, but these forces must be reduced or eliminated when operators load parts or perform quality inspections.

The catalog includes a detailed welding circuit schematic showing proper valve integration with welding automation equipment. This application is particularly important in automotive frame welding, structural steel fabrication, and heavy equipment manufacturing where both productivity and worker safety are paramount.

Robotic welding systems benefit from the RSe Series' reliable pressure control, enabling consistent weld quality through precise part positioning while maintaining the flexibility to quickly transition to safe operator-access modes.

Assembly and Test Operations

Manufacturing assembly lines frequently require variable pressure control for different stages of the production process. The RSe Series enables safe pressure management for pick-and-place operations, component insertion, leak testing, and quality verification tasks.

In leak testing applications specifically, the Dale Series manifold systems can be integrated with RSe valves to provide safe, controlled pressure application during test sequences. The ability to automatically revert to safe pressure levels protects both test equipment and operators during setup and maintenance operations.

Safe Return Dual Pressure Applications

Beyond pressure select functions, the RSe Series can also be configured for safe return dual pressure applications. In this mode, the valve controls cylinder extension with supply pressure at port 3 and retraction with supply pressure at port 5, with the fail-safe condition defaulting to retract.

This configuration is particularly valuable in applications where reducing air consumption is important for environmental sustainability and operating cost reduction, while still maintaining the highest safety standards (Category 4, PL e).

Installation and Integration Guidelines

Mounting and Connection Options

The RSe Series features base mounting with flexible port configurations:

Mounting Type: Base mounted with captive valve-to-base mounting screws

Mounting Orientation: Any orientation, preferably vertical with solenoids on top

Port Threads: Available in NPT (N designation) or G/BSPP (D designation)

Port Flexibility: Inlet and outlet ports available on both sides for flexible piping; plugs included for unused ports

This flexible mounting design simplifies integration into existing pneumatic systems and enables compact machine designs.

Electrical Connections and Wiring

Solenoid Connections: DIN EN 175301-803 Form C connectors with standardized pinouts

• Pin 1: Positive (+)
• Pin 2: Negative (-)
• Pin 3: Ground

Sensor Connections: M8 connectors for PNP proximity sensors

• Pin 1: Common (L+)
• Pin 3: Output
• Pin 4: Ground (L-)

ROSS offers prewired electrical connector kits to simplify installation and reduce wiring errors. These include solenoid connector cords (3 meters with or without indicator lights) and sensor connector cords (2 meters).

Safety System Integration Requirements

For proper Category 4, PL e operation, the RSe Series must be integrated with appropriate external monitoring equipment:

Required Components:

• Safety PLC or safety relay with appropriate performance level rating
• Monitoring logic to check both valve position sensors during each cycle
• Control system capable of inhibiting valve operation upon fault detection
• Emergency stop circuits meeting EN ISO 13850 requirements

Integration Best Practices:

• Monitor both proximity sensors on each actuation and de-actuation cycle
• Implement discordance time monitoring (maximum 250ms recommended)
• Ensure control system prevents operation until fault conditions are cleared
• Include pressure verification devices downstream for complete system validation

ROSS provides integration guides specifically for RSe Series valves, offering detailed information on operation, monitoring strategies, and control circuit integration.

Accessories and Support Products

Pressure Verification Devices

Redundant Pressure Switch Assembly (RC026-13) 

• Dual electrical verification
• Downstream installation
• 3/8" NPT port thread
• Factory preset at 5 psi (0.3 bar) falling
• DIN EN 175301-803 Form A connector

Single Pressure Switch (586A86) 

• Electrical verification for pressure sensing port or downstream location
• 1/8" NPT port thread
• Factory preset at 5 psi (0.3 bar) falling
• Form A connector with NO and NC contacts

These pressure verification devices provide additional safety confirmation that pneumatic energy has been properly exhausted during safety functions.

Exhaust Silencers

ROSS offers industrial-grade exhaust silencers in aluminum construction rated for 0-290 psig (0-20 bar):

• 1/8" male NPT or R/Rp: 1.3 CV (1,300 Nl/min) flow capacity
• 1/4" male NPT or R/Rp: 2.3 CV (2,300 Nl/min) flow capacity
• 1/2" male NPT or R/Rp: 6.8 CV (6,700 Nl/min) flow capacity

These silencers reduce exhaust noise while maintaining the high flow capacity necessary for rapid valve response.

Prewired Connector Kits

Complete connector kits simplify installation and reduce commissioning time:

Solenoid Connector Kit (2657B77): Includes two 2-meter DIN EN 175301-803 Form C connectors with flying leads

Sensor Connections: M8 connectors with flying leads (2-meter length)

Both lighted and non-lighted connector options are available, with lighted versions providing visual indication of energization status.

Design Resources and Engineering Support

CAD Models and Technical Documentation

ROSS provides comprehensive engineering resources to support system design and integration:

3D CAD Models: Downloadable in multiple formats for all RSe Series configurations

SISTEMA Library: Available for systematic safety calculations per ISO 13849-1

Integration Guides: Detailed application guides for safe pressure select and safe return dual pressure configurations

Dimensional Drawings: Precise mechanical dimensions for all port sizes and mounting configurations

The catalog includes complete dimensional drawings showing port locations, mounting hole patterns, and clearance requirements for all three valve sizes.

Application Engineering Support

ROSS maintains a global network of fluid power safety experts to assist with valve selection, safety circuit design, and compliance verification. The company's engineering team participates on industry standards committees that establish best practices for machine guarding and fluid power safety.

Total Machine Safety Course: ROSS offers comprehensive training on fluid power safety principles, risk assessment methodologies, and proper safety valve selection.

ROSS/FLEX Custom Solutions: For applications requiring specialized configurations or integration with unique equipment, ROSS provides engineering services to develop customized valve solutions using proven RSe Series technology.

Compliance with Global Safety Standards

ISO 13849-1:2015 Compliance

The RSe Series fully complies with ISO 13849-1, the international standard for safety-related parts of control systems. This standard defines five performance levels (PL a through PL e) based on probability of dangerous failure, with PL e representing the highest level of risk reduction.

Achieving Category 4, PL e requires redundant system architecture, high mean time to dangerous failure (MTTFD), and comprehensive diagnostic coverage - all characteristics embodied in the RSe Series design.

The standard's risk assessment methodology considers three parameters when determining required performance level:

• Severity (S): S1 (slight/reversible injury) or S2 (serious/irreversible injury or death)
• Frequency (F): F1 (seldom exposure) or F2 (frequent/continuous exposure)
• Avoidability (P): P1 (possible to avoid) or P2 (scarcely possible to avoid)

For applications involving S2 severity, F2 frequency, and P2 avoidability - common in many manufacturing operations - the required performance level is PL e, which the RSe Series is certified to achieve.

OSHA and ANSI B11 Requirements

In the United States, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulates machine safety through various standards, including the lockout/tagout requirements of 29 CFR 1910.147. While OSHA standards are prescriptive rather than performance-based, achieving Category 4, PL e performance provides strong evidence of compliance with general duty requirements.

The ANSI B11 series of standards provides specific guidance for machine tool safety, incorporating risk assessment methodologies similar to ISO 13849-1. The RSe Series' certification data supports compliance demonstrations required under these standards.

CE Marking and EU Machinery Directive

The RSe Series carries CE marking, indicating conformity with European Union Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and related harmonized standards. The Declaration of Conformity and Certificate of Compliance provide documentation required for machinery manufacturers selling equipment in European markets.

Why Choose ROSS Controls RSe Series

Century of Innovation in Fluid Power Safety

Since 1921, ROSS Controls has been at the forefront of fluid power safety innovation. The company introduced the industry's first base-mounted poppet valve in 1941 and has continued to lead in safety valve technology development. The RSe Series represents the latest evolution in this legacy, incorporating advanced sensor technology and external monitoring capabilities while maintaining the proven reliability of ROSS valve designs.

Global Support and Service Network

ROSS maintains manufacturing facilities and technical support centers across North America, Europe, Asia, and South America. This global presence ensures responsive technical support, rapid spare parts availability, and local expertise in regional safety standards and regulations.

Comprehensive Safety Valve Portfolio

The RSe Series is part of ROSS's complete line of pneumatic safety valves, including:

• Energy isolation valves (L-O-X Series)
• Safe exhaust valves (M35, 77 Series)
• Safe control and stop valves (CrossMirror CM26)
• Load holding solutions (Pilot Operated Check Valves)

This comprehensive portfolio enables system designers to specify appropriate safety solutions for every fluid power hazard throughout a machine or facility.

Commitment to Safety Education

Beyond manufacturing safety products, ROSS is committed to advancing fluid power safety knowledge throughout industry. The company publishes technical references, offers training courses, and participates in standards development to promote best practices in machine safety.

Download Your Complete Catalog Today

This comprehensive PDF catalog contains everything you need to specify, install, and integrate ROSS RSe Series Safe Pressure Select Double Valves into your safety systems:

✓ Complete technical specifications and performance data
✓ Detailed dimensional drawings for all configurations
✓ Application circuit diagrams and integration examples
✓ Model number configuration guidance and ordering information
✓ Accessory specifications including pressure switches and silencers
✓ Electrical connection diagrams and pinouts
✓ Safety certification documentation
✓ Installation and maintenance guidelines
✓ Troubleshooting and service information

For additional technical support, custom valve solutions, or application engineering assistance, contact ROSS Controls:

North America: 1-800-GET-ROSS (1-800-438-7677)
Web: www.rosscontrols.com
Email: Contact your local ROSS representative

Product Tags: pneumatic safety valves, pressure control valves, Category 4 PL e valves, SIL 3 rated valves, safe pressure select, double safety valves, externally monitored valves, ISO 13849-1 compliant, industrial automation safety, machine guarding solutions, ROSS Controls valves, redundant control valves, clamping circuit valves, welding safety valves, manufacturing safety equipment

Industries Served: Automotive Manufacturing, Metal Fabrication, Welding Automation, Assembly Operations, Press Operations, Packaging Equipment, Material Handling Systems, Industrial Robotics, General Manufacturing

Related Products: RSe Series Safe Exhaust Valves, M35 Series Double Valves, CrossMirror CM26 Series, L-O-X Energy Isolation Valves, 77 Series Double Valves, DM1 Series Double Valves