Cambridge Sensotec launches SIL2-compliant oxygen analyser for Additive Manufacturing
Cambridge Sensotec, based in St Ives, Cambridgeshire, UK, has launched the Rapidox OEM-SIL2, a high-performance zirconia oxygen analyser designed to meet SIL2 compliance under IEC 61508/61511 functional safety standards in high-demand-use applications. Engineered to serve Additive Manufacturing applications, this analyser is said to provide precise, real-time oxygen monitoring within inert atmospheres, making it suitable for safeguarding critical processes such as Powder Bed Fusion AM, sintering, and high-temperature build chambers.
The analyser is the result of over five years of research and development into the demands of metal Additive Manufacturing, where tight oxygen control and fault-proof safety systems are essential for build quality, operator safety, and regulatory compliance.
“We’re proud to launch the new Rapidox OEM-SIL2 after many years of design and testing by our dedicated R&D team, supported by some of the very best SIL2 expert consultants in the country,” said Dr Mark Swetnam, Managing Director of Cambridge Sensotec. “This analyser represents a major step forward for Cambridge Sensotec, and we’re confident it will be a valuable asset for manufacturers requiring SIL2 compliance.”
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Metal Additive Manufacturing processes depend on stable, low-oxygen atmospheres to ensure product quality, prevent oxidation, and avoid powder degradation, explains Cambridge Sensotec. In build chambers using argon or nitrogen, even slight deviations in O₂ levels can result in costly build failures or compromised mechanical properties.
The Rapidox OEM-SIL2 is built to mitigate these risks when operating in high-demand-use applications. Housed in a compact DIN rail enclosure, the unit is available with or without a local display and is optimised for seamless PLC integration. Data logging and Modbus-RTU protocols are standard.
SIL2 in Additive Manufacturing
As metal AM adoption increases across sectors like defence, aerospace, automotive, and medical, so do the demands for fail-safe process monitoring. SIL2 compliance ensures that the analyser can reliably detect and react to faults instantaneously. This is a critical factor in environments where oxygen ingress could lead to fire risk, machine shutdown, or reduced product quality.
This is particularly important in enclosed AM systems using argon blanketing or vacuum atmospheres, where the analyser may serve as part of a broader Safety Instrumented System (SIS) to protect both personnel and equipment.
Designed for harsh industrial conditions
With a sensor that can operate in temperatures up to 650°C, and vacuum-compatible mounting (ISO-KF and CF fittings available), the Rapidox OEM-SIL2 is said to be well-suited to demanding build environments. The system can also accommodate a Type K thermocouple input and dewpoint measurement of water content monitoring for advanced measurement diagnosis (non-SIL2 scope).
