NEIEP Mechanics Practice Exam

Interlocks are always wired in what manner?

1. Parallel

2. In series

3. With a switch

4. Randomly

The correct answer is: In series

Interlocks are safety devices designed to prevent machinery from operating under unsafe conditions. They are typically wired in series to ensure that the entire system operates correctly and that all safety parameters are met before the machinery can activate. When interlocks are wired in series, it creates a situation where all interlocks must be activated (closed) for the circuit to be completed. This means if any one interlock is not engaged, it will break the circuit, preventing machinery operation. This design is essential for maintaining safety, as it ensures that all safety measures are confirmed before equipment can be turned on. In contrast, wiring interlocks in parallel could lead to a scenario where the machine operates even if one or more interlocks are not engaged, which is unsafe. Therefore, the series configuration is critical for ensuring operational safety in mechanical systems.