On 20 January 2027, the European Machinery Regulation (EU) 2023/1230 will replace the current Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC. This does not mean an entirely new safety framework. The familiar principles surrounding risk assessment, technical documentation and CE marking will remain in place.
What will change under the EU Machinery Regulation in 2027?
The new regulation takes modern technology more explicitly into account. For example, it introduces requirements for machines with independently changing behaviour and for protecting safety-related control systems against unwanted digital interference. Digital operating instructions will also be permitted under certain conditions. In addition, substantial modifications to existing machines may be necessary in some cases. When a modification introduces new hazards or increases existing risks, requiring additional safety measures, it may be considered a substantial modification. The responsible party may then need to carry out a new conformity assessment.
However, the new rules do not mean that every existing machine must be reassessed in January 2027.
What safety risks are associated with linear motion systems?
Linear guides and ball screws provide controlled movement. However, these movements also introduce risks when people can come into contact with moving components.
For example, crushing and shearing hazards. A carriage moving along a linear guide can trap a body part between moving and stationary machine components. Components moving past each other can also create a shearing hazard. These risks do not only occur during production. Dangerous situations can also arise when adjusting, cleaning or maintaining a machine. A protective cover, guard or other suitable safety measure must therefore be appropriate for the entire application.
Rotating ball screws also present hazards, including entanglement and contact with moving components. This requires particular attention when drive systems are accessible. A vertical configuration introduces another risk. If the drive system fails, the load may descend uncontrollably. Depending on the application, a suitable brake, mechanical locking mechanism or additional fall protection may be required. The load capacity of the linear guide alone is not a sufficient measure of safety.
Safe machine design starts with risk assessment
Adding safety measures afterwards is often more complicated than considering them from the beginning. That is why a risk assessment should already be part of the initial design phase. The EN ISO 12100 standard describes general principles for identifying and reducing machinery risks. The underlying principle is that hazards should first be eliminated as far as possible through the design itself. This is followed by appropriate protective measures and information about residual risks.
EN ISO 13849-1 is among the relevant standards for safety functions of control systems. Applicable machine-specific safety standards must also be taken into account. Selecting the right component does not automatically eliminate all risks. Safety must be assessed for the complete machine, including its control system, drive system and operating conditions.
Choosing the right linear components
When selecting linear guides, ball screws and modules, we consider load, speed, accuracy and the desired service life. The stiffness of the structure and the forces generated during acceleration and deceleration also determine which components are suitable.
For a vertical axis, component selection requires additional attention. If the drive system fails, the load may descend uncontrollably. A linear guide does not automatically prevent this. Depending on the application and risk assessment, an additional brake or mechanical locking mechanism may be required.
LM Systems supports machine builders in selecting and sizing the right linear components. Through calculations of factors such as load, stiffness and expected service life, we can provide targeted advice on a suitable configuration. By involving us early in the design process, the mechanical requirements can be clearly established before the design is finalised. Responsibility for the safety and CE conformity of the complete machine remains with the machine manufacturer.
Contact LM Systems today for targeted technical advice or download the required 3D CAD files directly from our website to speed up the design process.