The use of wireless foot switches is particularly useful at welding stations because the service life of cable-connected foot switches is impaired by welding spatter, which can damage the cable. Cables also have the unpleasant tendency to become trip hazards in everyday operations. However, conventional foot switches are unsuitable for this application because their protective covers are not large enough to allow operators wearing heavy safety shoes the necessary freedom of movement.

That is why steute Technologies, based in Löhne, East Westphalia, has designed a robust and particularly large protective cover made of powder-coated steel for this and similar heavy-duty applications. It is connected to the wireless foot switches and offers enough space to operate the two pedals even when wearing heavy safety shoes that protect against welding spatter. At the same time, the protective cover prevents the pedals from being operated accidentally. A carrying handle makes the foot switch easy to use in different locations.

The RF GFS 2 XL radio transmitter has been integrated into the protective cover, where it is well protected from mechanical impact and positioned so that its signals reliably reach the antenna of the corresponding receiver unit. It uses steute's own sWave radio technology, which is used worldwide and enables ranges of up to 20 metres indoors, even under the unfavourable conditions of industrial operation (coexistence with other radio systems, radiation).

The new wireless foot switch was initially developed as a customised project at the request of a user who manufactures welded constructions. Having proven itself there, it is now being added to steute's wireless switchgear series programme.

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