Overview
The Schmersal AZ 16 ZVRK-M20 is a keyed interlock switch engineered for reliable guard interlocking and safety-critical applications. This coded safety interlock switch provides play-free interlocking of light to medium-weight guards with a magnetic latch mechanism that can be fitted in any actuating plane. The unit meets EN ISO 14119 and EN ISO 13849-1 standards, making it suitable for Category 3 and Category 4 safety-rated systems in machine tool, automated packaging, and access control applications.
Key Features
- Multiple coding prevents unauthorized or incorrect actuator substitution
- Double-insulated design for enhanced electrical safety
- IP67 protection rating—insensitive to soiling and moisture ingress
- Thermoplastic glass-fiber reinforced enclosure for durability
- Three M 20 × 1.5 cable entries with large wiring compartment
- Slotted adjustment holes for flexible mounting on guard frames
- Compact form factor: 52 mm W × 90 mm H × 30 mm L
Technical Specifications
The Schmersal AZ 16 ZVRK-M20 offers robust electrical performance and certification compliance:
- Contact Configuration: 1 Normally Open (NO) / 2 Normally Closed (NC)
- Rated Voltage: 500 VAC
- Current Rating: 10 A
- Dielectric Strength: 4 kV
- Degree of Protection: IP67
- Enclosure Material: Glass-fiber reinforced thermoplastic
- Connector Type: M20 × 1.5 cable gland
- Actuator: Ordered separately
- Certifications: EN ISO 14119, EN ISO 13849-1
- Weight: 0.16 lbs (approximately 73 g)
Typical Applications
The AZ 16 ZVRK-M20 is widely used in machine guarding and safety control systems:
- Light guard and protective door interlocking on machining centers and presses
- Access control for automated assembly lines and robotic work cells
- Enclosure interlocking for packaging machinery and conveyor systems
- Safety-rated control systems requiring coded actuator validation
- Hazardous area guarding in automotive, food processing, and manufacturing facilities
Compatibility & Replacements
Compatible With
- Safety-rated control systems conforming to EN ISO 13849-1 and IEC 61508
- Guard interlocking circuits in machine safety applications
- Industrial automation controllers with 500 VAC control logic
- M20 DIN 43650 connector installations and cable gland systems
- Coded interlock ecosystems requiring Schmersal AZ 16 actuator family
Replaces / Drop-In Replacement For
- AZ 16-12ZVRK (earlier non-M20 version)
- Other Schmersal AZ 16 keyed interlock switches with similar safety ratings and contact configuration
Works With
- Schmersal AZ 16-STS30 series magnetic actuators (STS30-01 through STS30-08)
- M20 × 1.5 cable entry systems and DIN 43650 connectors
- EN ISO 14119 compliant safety interlocking architectures
- Programmable safety controllers (PSS) and legacy safety relay modules




