The new European Machinery Regulation therefore places a strong emphasis on digital security. But even the best software security loses some of its value if someone can easily open a machine guard, control cabinet, or control panel.
A safe machine must therefore be protected not only digitally but also mechanically.
What if someone can physically access critical components? An attacker or unauthorized employee doesn’t always have to gain access through a network. Sometimes it’s enough to unscrew a cover, open a control cabinet, or gain access to a PLC, sensor, or control panel.
That is why physical access to machines also deserves attention in the risk analysis. Not as a substitute for cybersecurity, access control, or organizational measures, but as an additional layer of security.
Why a Standard Screw Isn't Always Enough A standard Torx or Allen screw can be removed with commonly available tools. Even bits for many common security screws can now be easily found online or in complete bit sets.
That is not a problem with a standard mounting connection. However, in the case of machine guards, control cabinets, or service panels that require controlled access, this may not provide adequate protection.
A security screw with a less common drive makes unauthorized removal significantly more difficult. Only people who have the proper tools can open the connection.
This provides greater control over who has access to critical parts of the machine.
Cinstar®: Controlled Access with Specialized Tools The SecuFast Cinstar® was developed for applications in which components must not be removable with standard tools.
Cinstar® has a unique drive geometry with five lobes and a central pin. As a result, standard Torx, Torx Pin, or Allen bits will not fit. The corresponding SecuFast Cinstar® bit is required for installation and removal.
In the Benelux, this tool is available exclusively through SecuFast, a division of Archey.
Cinstar® is suitable for, among other things: • fixed guards around moving machine parts; • switch boxes and electrical panels; • sensor and encoder housings; • control panels and control components; • service doors and access hatches; • equipment in public or freely accessible environments.
The machine screws are usually available directly from stock in sizes M3 through M8, made of A2 stainless steel, and available with a low-profile head or a flat countersunk head, packaged in quantities of 100.
Part of a multi-layered safety approach A safety screw does not prevent every form of tampering. Nor does its use automatically mean that a machine meets all the requirements of the Machinery Directive or CE regulations. It is one measure within a broader safety strategy.
A good approach combines, for example: • digital security for software, connections, and operating systems; • identification and protection of safety-critical components; • physical access control; • appropriate machine guards; • secure fasteners; • clear authorizations for maintenance and service; • recording and verification of work performed.
The measures that are necessary always depend on the application and the results of the risk assessment.
In addition, fixed barriers must be designed so that they can only be opened or removed with tools. A specialized security screw can further raise the barrier to tampering, since the required tool is not readily available.
Safety Often Lies in the Details. When it comes to machine safety, a great deal of attention is focused on control systems, software, sensors, and large mechanical structures. But the ultimate level of protection may depend on a relatively small component: the fastener that holds a guard or enclosure in place.
If such a connection can be opened using standard tools, it may still result in unauthorized access to critical components.
The growing focus on cybersecurity therefore presents a good opportunity to reevaluate the entire security concept—not only digital access to the machine, but also physical access to safety-critical components.
Because a safe machine isn't just protected digitally. A safe machine is also mechanically well-designed.
Need advice on security screws for your application? Do you want to prevent machine guards, control cabinets, or critical components from being easily opened? Archey is happy to help you select the right security screw and corresponding tools for your application.
Please contact us for technical advice or more information about SecuFast Cinstar® security screws
