Heater differential temperature monitoring.

Heater differential temperature monitoring and alarming using associated IS applications.

A facility needed to measure inlet and outlet temperature of a process heater using existing three-wire RTDs and provide a 4-20mA process variable signal, representing the differential temperature across the heater, to a local alarm trip for heater protection and share that differential temperature signal with the Basic Process Control System (BPCS). In addition, the measurements were in a hazardous area and plant standards require the use of a certified IS system.

They used a Moore Industries THZ3-DIN Dual Input Temperature Transmitter with the Associated IS (AIS) option and SPA2 Alarm Trip with self diagnostics capability, and local display/alarm status indicators. This ensured successful measurements to the BPCS of inlet and outlet temperature, temperature differential, sensor diagnostics, transmitter diagnostics using HART to the BPCS.

In short he customer needed to measure inlet and outlet temperature of a process heater using existing three-wire RTDs and provide a 4-20mA process variable signal, representing the differential temperature across the heater, to the BPCS controller. The measurements are in a hazardous area and plant standards require a certified IS system. Utilizing the associated IS and dual RTD input capability of the THZ3 temperature transmitter, the heater’s differential temperature 4-20mA signal was wired in series to a local alarm trip and host BPCS.

The process side alarm trip provided visual and audible heater failure warning and indication while the host BPCS maintained primary control and master alarming capability. Additionally, the HART diagnostics from the THZ3 allowed the BPCS to constantly monitor key parameters such as RTD drift, broken sensors and critical transmitter diagnostics.

Providing a local process side alarm trip substantially saved wiring and operation costs since new signal wires (RTD and alarm) didn’t have to be pulled to support the newly desired local alarms, two IS barriers were not needed for the RTD wires back at the BPCS location, sensor diagnostics continuously monitored by the BPCS and local differential temperature calculation and indication can now be done in the field.

@MII_Worldwide #PAuto 

IS multi purpose indicator.

The D490 is a Multi-Purpose Indicator from Fluidwell. It can display the actual process value, range and current loops. In addition to flow rate, level, temperature and pressure applications, the D490 can also work with other measuring units, such as %, mA, RPM and more. Therefore, the D490 is a versatile indicator that suits many applications.

Hazardous area information The D490 is certified according ATEX, IECEx and CSA for use in Intrinsically Safe applications with an ambient temperature of -30°C to +70°C (-22°F to +158°F). The ATEX markings are: Gas: II 1 G Ex ia IIC T4 Ga Dust: II 1 D Ex ia IIIC T100°C Da The IECEx markings are: Gas: Ex ia IIC T4 Ga Dust: Ex ia IIIC T100°C Da The CSA c-us markings are: IS Class I/II/III, Division 1, Groups A to G. Ex ia IIC / Class 1 Zone 0 AEx ia IIC T4.

The D490 is a unique intrinsically safe product within the D-Series. The input circuit has a low voltage drop < 1V DC and is isolated from the backlight circuit. It is classified with the highest protection level Ga/Da (Zone 0) and won’t influence the intrinsically safe circuit to which it is connected.

The loop powered D490 accepts 4 - 20mA input signals from a wide range of process instruments, including flow (linear or square root), level, pressure and temperature transmitters. All these process parameters can be displayed in their own engineering units. 

An outstanding advantage of this DIN panel mount indicator is its unique waterproof qualities. The robust IP66, IP67 and Type 4X enclosure withstands extreme weather conditions and powerful water jets! It will save time and cost.  it is perfect for marine, cleaning and wash-down applications without worrying about water damage.

The configuration of the unit is done via a simple, logical and menu-driven structure (instead of complex hardware changes or actions). The alphanumerical descriptions enhance the easy understanding of the system and its settings, in contrast with regularly seen confusing abbreviations and complex codes. 

The D490 is, like all Fluidwell products, designed according the ‘Know one, know them all’ – principle. Once familiar with a Fluidwell product, users can program ALL models in ALL series without the need for a manual.

@fluidwell #PAuto #Safety

Loop powered indicators.

The VPM2000 Series of loop-powered display meters with process current output and alarm capabilities is the latest addition to the Acromag Verty ™range. They supplement the digital indicator functions of a panel meter with optional 4-20mA isolator output and/or alarm trip solid-state relays. A dual-line LCD display has large 0.7 inch digits, an optional bargraph, and a backlight for clear visibility in bright sunlight or dim lighting. The backlight glows red and flashes under alarm condition. No separate power supply is required for easy installation almost anywhere. They are even UL/cUL approved for use in hazardous locations requiring intrinsically safe, non-incendive devices.

“These versatile instruments combine the functionality of a 4-20mA signal isolator, a dual-relay limit alarm, and a digital display in a single unit that is powered off a process current loop” explained Robert Greenfield, Acromag’s Business Development Manager.

The VPM2000 displays are simple to set up and install. USB connection to a PC makes setup fast and easy with the free configuration software which can save the file for copying to other units. Front-panel pushbuttons can also set operating parameters and serve as function keys to change the display or acknowledge alarms. A shallow-depth 1/8 DIN enclosure with a NEMA 4X IP65 front panel facilitates mounting. Internal PCBs are conformal coated for protection from the elements while a -40 to 75°C operating range enables use in extreme environments.

Other advanced capabilities add further value. Two open collector outputs and a digital input are standard. The discrete outputs are useful for alarm indication or pulse output. The discrete input can trigger or reset alarms. Square root, exponential, and linearizer calculations perform scaling for flow and volume computation. The two-line display can show the measured process value in different scales such as tank height on the top line and volume on the bottom. Pushbuttons toggle display of min/max values or other units. Dual relays enable a variety of alarm trip configurations for high/low, high/high, and low/low limit triggers. Relays can also be used for process on/off control and pump alternation applications with display of runtime and cycle counts.

@Acromag #PAuto 

Controller certified against cyberattack.

The Secure Control and Communications (SCC) controller, from Bedrock Automation, has received Achilles certification from GE Digital. The Bedrock SCC, the first industrial controller with intrinsic cyber security protection, has achieved Achilles Level 2 Certification for communications robustness testing (CRT).

"“Compliance with cyber security standards is a fundamental objective of our platform. In 2016 we completed certification of the most extreme cyber hardening standard, MIL-STD-461G for EMP immunity, and have now completed Achilles CRT. This year we are focused on completing ISA Secure, as well as Achilles for secure IIoT communications to our field power and UPS products”," said Albert Rooyakkers, Bedrock Automation founder and CEO.

The Achilles® Test Platform helps manufacturers of mission critical infrastructure solutions ensure that their products are less vulnerable to cyberattacks. It tests communications robustness of networks and operational parameters, identifying vulnerabilities and reproducing, isolating, and resolving faults that cause them. The Bedrock SCC has achieved Achilles Level 2 certification.

Bedrock Automation joins nine of the top ten global automation vendors in using Achilles test products to verify and validate performance under real-world conditions, such as denial of service (DoS) attacks. The test battery is based on extensive experience in working with critical infrastructure systems and with manufacturers of devices that automate them.

"With the connectivity of devices continuing to increase at a rapid pace, there is a critical need to better understand potential vulnerabilities and ways to eliminate them. By using the Achilles Test Platform and earning the Achilles Communication Certification, Bedrock has demonstrated its commitment to network robustness testing and improving the quality of its products. We congratulate Bedrock on this milestone," said Felicia Nicastro, Senior Cyber Security Director at GE Digital.

@BedrockAuto #PAuto @GE_Digital #Cybersecurity

IS Alarm trip wins!

Control Engineering 2017 Engineers’ Choice Award for Process Safety, Intrinsic Safety category has been achieved by Moore Industries. The successful instrument is their SPA2IS Programmable Alarm Trip with Intrinsically-Safe (IS) Field Connections. The award will be presented at the 2017 Engineering Awards Manufacturing dinner on Monday, April 3, 2017 in Chicago (USA)

Moore Industries has focused on protecting people, plants, and the environment since its 1968 founding as part of an overall effort to help customers in the chemical, petrochemical, oil & gas extraction and refining, and pharmaceutical industries by creating products that monitor, control, and measure signals in hazardous areas. The company strives to produce the best alarm solutions that significantly reduce wiring, installation and maintenance costs. The SPA2IS is a combination alarm trip and temperature transmitter that includes built-in intrinsically-safe field connections for current/voltage, thermocouple, and resistance temperature detectors (RTDs).

For facilities that employ intrinsic safety measures, the SPA2IS is a cost effective and complete alarm solution that includes intrinsically-safe field connections, providing the necessary protection typically afforded by a galvanically isolated intrinsically safe barrier. The SPA2IS decreases wiring and maintenance costs by enabling users to eliminate additional barriers and power supplies, reducing space requirements and heat dissipation or cooling considerations in barrier marshalling cabinets. The SPA2IS is powered by a universal AC/DC power supply and provides on/off control, warns of unwanted process conditions, alarms on rate of change, and assists with or performs emergency shutdowns. The SPA2IS is site and PC programmable using Moore Industries’ free Intelligent PC Configuration Software.

@MII_Worldwide #PAuto

Noncontact temperature monitoring in hazardous areas.

All models of the versatile Raytek® MI3 Compact Series infrared sensors are now also available as intrinsically safe versions for use in hazardous environments. Intrinsically safe devices prevent explosions in hazardous locations by limiting the energy and surface temperature of the device under normal operation, or when conditions arise that could become hazardous. Devices are approved as intrinsically safe only after passing the rigorous approval process required by a recognized entity.

The intelligent MI3 miniature sensors are now fully ATEX and IECEx certified for use in Zones 1 and 2 (gas) and Zones 21 and 22 (dust). Raytek supplies a complete intrinsically safe package, including the sensor, communication box and an Ex power supply. All three components are IP65 rated. One or two intrinsically safe MI3 sensing heads can be powered by one power supply. The sensor cables can be up to 30m (98ft) long in total, providing high flexibility for setting up safe monitoring scenarios. The communication box, power supply, and sensing heads can each be easily exchanged in the field without re-calibration of the entire system.

The MI3 is a rugged, IP65 stainless steel miniature pyrometer with integrated electronics. It is the smallest, fully functional, standalone digital infrared temperature sensor for fixed installations on the market today.

The MI3 series comprises pyrometers for various spectral ranges and applications, including the 1M and 2M shortwave models with an excellent 100:1 resolution and 10 ms response time, which are suitable for monitoring temperatures up to 1,800°C (3272°F). Each intrinsically safe MI3 sensing head is labeled with the Ex certification. The MI3100 model’s Ex certification also covers the laser sighting function for easy positioning and aiming. MI3 sensors have excellent EMC characteristics and can be used in ambient temperatures up to +180°C (356°F). Communication boxes are available with RS485, Modbus, Profibus, Ethernet TCP/IP and Profinet IO interfaces, and with four galvanically isolated analog outputs. Automatic head detection and digital communication between sensor and box enable plug and play.

With the addition of ATEX and ICEEx certification, the MI3 series can now be used in many additional areas - for example, in steel industry processes using hydrogen atmosphere, such as galvanizing, annealing, plating and coating. Other application areas include hydrogen reduction in the solar industry, petrochemical (sulfur recovery, boilers, reactors, pipes, flare control) and chemical (fertilizer, starch, alcohols, flower, vinyl) processes, mining (monitoring) conveyors and equipment, fire detection and storage terminals (coal, wood pellets, sulfur, petroleum coke, starch), hazardous waste disposal and sewage, as well as ink, laminate and coating processes that emit volatile vapors, and many more.

Ex ic - Intrinsic safety’s new protection level!

Power management company Eaton has released a new whitepaper, Ex ic – Intrinsic Safety’s New Protection Level, that helps users and manufacturers understand more about Ex ic, the new intrinsic safety protection level for electrical apparatus in flammable environments. The paper is authored by Phil Saward, training and technical consultant, Eaton’s Crouse-Hinds Division. Phil Saward has 25 years’ experience in hazardous area products and applications and has served time on various FOUNDATION™ fieldbus committees.

“The concept of a third level of protection for intrinsic safety has existed for several decades,” said Phil Saward. “Only in recent years has it been formally adopted into the major standards systems in common use worldwide. Meanwhile, other methods of protection have filled the gap. In particular, Ex nL has provided a workable, but somewhat loosely defined alternative until its recent withdrawal from international standards. The paper therefore covers the essential differences between Ex ic and Ex nL, and discusses the pros and cons of the two techniques.”

The whitepaper deals primarily with the impact on countries that follow IEC and ATEX practice - but there are parallels with the ‘non-incendive’ technique that is adopted in North America. The paper is aimed at those who are familiar with the principles of explosion protection for electrical apparatus, but will also appeal to readers who are responsible for compliance to the ATEX Directive and relevant IEC standards. Topics covered include:

• What is Ex ic?; 
• The position of Ex ic in the Intrinsic Safety family; 
• Changes to the IEC standards; 
• Why things are changing now; 
• Background and links to the ATEX directive.

One of the most helpful elements of the whitepaper is the inclusion of a case study which demonstrates how the new Ex ic standard can fundamentally change the design of a FOUNDATION™ fieldbus network, compared with implementations that were based on the Ex n standards. This practical illustration will help readers understand the potential impact in terms of network design and hardware selection.

Companies co-operate in design of integrated production control system.

Eaton is supporting Yokogawa in the development of its next generation integrated production control system, CENTUM VP R6.01. Yokogawa wanted to design a new system with an intrinsically safe universal input/output (I/O) module for greater efficiency in system configuration and engineering and approached MTL, part of Eaton’s Crouse-Hinds business, for its expertise in intrinsic safety devices for hazardous area and general process control applications.

“We have a long standing relationship with Yokogawa, having worked together globally for more than 20 years on various projects, so we were delighted once again to partner with them on the CENTUM VP R6.01,” said Riccardo Codega, MTL marketing director, Eaton’s Crouse-Hinds Division. “We worked closely with them to understand their requirements for a universal I/O module and recommended our MTL4500 intrinsic safety isolators, which have been adapted to work in a universal environment. The backplane mounting series is designed with systems vendors in mind and is perfect for DCS applications such as this.”

Yokogawa  launched its first version of CENTUM in 1975, and the company has continued to improve the platform by applying the latest technologies.

Recognising the challenges faced by today’s manufacturing plants for increased flexibility as well as improved process efficiencies, with the need to maintain safe operations, Yokogawa wanted to develop an intrinsically safe universal I/O module that would allow its customers to reduce the time required for installing and configuring a control system.

“We chose to work with Eaton MTL for its credibility and expertise in intrinsic safety,” said Nobuaki Konishi, Vice President of Yokogawa Industrial Automation Platform Business. “The company is recognised in the industry as being a key supplier and we were confident we could rely on them to provide a high quality and safe solution.”

As part of the CENTUM VP R6.01, Yokogawa has expanded its range of I/O devices, which are critical control system components, and a key feature is a new N-IO field I/O device with an I/O module that can easily handle multiple types of I/O signals. As such, it eliminates the need for I/O modules to be replaced according to the signal they convey, which reduces rewiring, footprint and the time spent on installation and associated costs.

Eaton’s MTL product specialists added additional diagnostic features and functionality so line fault detection is integrated into the Yokogawa system. Now, there are channel level diagnostics in the control system that help users avoid downtime and increase plant productivity.

A key benefit of the MTL4500 Series isolators is that the base plate does not require intrinsic safety certification. The field connection is on top of the module, so it does not need any additional accreditations and it is accessible to all regions worldwide. As a result, the approval process into a plant is simplified in virtually any application.

The MTL4500 isolators are a compact integrated solution for flexible cabinet layout. Incorporating advanced circuit design, a common set of components and innovative isolating transformer construction, the isolators achieve a significant reduction in power consumption while increasing channel packing densities. The 16mm wide design reduces weight and gives exceptionally high packing density.

Eaton’s MTL4500 isolators are plug-and-play with easy commissioning and set up, therefore simplifying project engineering and reducing installation and maintenance costs. The design is based on existing, proven technologies and provides a reliable solution for manufacturing plants and process industries including oil and gas, petrochemicals, chemicals and pharmaceuticals.

Eaton continues to work closely with Yokogawa in its development of control systems that will provide customers with an improved operating environment by increasing the safety and efficiency of their operations and achieving greater synergy between their control system and field devices. In addition to improving production efficiency, this will allow the optimisation of maintenance of the production control system, safety instrumented system, programmable controllers, all field devices, and other components, thereby reducing costs and ensuring the long-term stability of operations.

MTL products, part of Eaton’s Crouse-Hinds portfolio, provide leading electronic instrumentation and protection capabilities for the process control industries. Key applications include intrinsic safety, fieldbus, industrial networking, surge protection, HMI and visualisation, gas analysis and alarm management.

See also our story: Integrated production control system! (18/11/2014)

Complete range of Ex inductive sensors!

For use in Ex zones 0 and 20

.steute is further expanding its range of robust inductive sensors in cylindrical stainless steel housings. With immediate effect, the sensors are now available in explosion-proof versions with Atex and IECEx approvals.

The sensors come in four different sizes (M8, M12, M18 and M30). They are suitable for both flush and non-flush installation, and for use in Ex zones 0 (gas-Ex) and 20 (dust-Ex). Intrinsically safe switch amplifiers are available to evaluate the signals.

The devices are designed as 2-wire Namur sensor (IEC/EN 60947-5-6). They switch very reliably, almost independently of the ambient conditions. Their high switching interval and wide temperature range permit universal use in explosive environments and beyond.

The Ex inductive sensors round off the steute Extreme range of non-contact switchgear and provide a suitable alternative to electromechanical position switches, as well as to conventional magnet switches.

VA meter approved for hazardous areas!

With the north american FM approvals for the ignition protection types „intrinsically safe“ (IS) and "non-incendive" (NI), Krohne has now received the last pending approvals for hazardous areas for the H250 M40 variable area flowmeter. Since its introduction in 2011, the H250 M40 has achieved more than 30 approvals worldwide for hazardous gas and dust areas, including ATEX, IECEx, usFMc, NEPSI, INMETRO, KGS, GOST-R and PESO/CCOE.

H250 M40 combines the main types of explosion protection in one device: it can be used in any suitable application that requires intrinsically safe or non-incendive wiring strategies or as well for dust-ignition or explosion proof installations. Together with the worldwide approvals, the flowmeter is therefore the first choice for large international companies that have a stringent explosion protection strategy for all plants but also need the respective local approvals. The same goes for OEMs that can fulfill requirements of different customers with just one device.

All available indicator variants can be supplied with all available approvals: starting with pure mechanical flow indicators, the devices can easily be upgraded with 1 or 2 limit switches (NAMUR, Transistor or Reed), a 4...20mA signal output with HART, a graphical LCD with totalizer and pulse output or finally with a digital, bus-powered communication interface according to FOUNDATION Fieldbus or PROFIBUS PA standard – all onsite, without interrupting the process. H250 M40 is also the first variable area flowmeter to offer a stainless steel housing with explosion proof (Ex d/XP) enclosure, dedicated for the oil&gas industry.

All approvals can be publicly accessed via the Krohne download centre.

IS sensors.

Monitran has launched two series of intrinsically safe sensors. Certified to ATEX and IECEx Group II, the MTN/2285IT and MTN/2200IT series are sealed to IP67, are available with integral cables or 4-pin connectors and are ideal for measuring vibration levels and temperatures in areas where explosive gases, liquids or dust may be present.

Intended for monitoring applications, the MTN/2285IT series comprises sensors with DC current outputs, in the range 4-20mA, proportional to RMS velocity (mm/s) and temperature as a voltage at a sensitivity of 10mV/oC. In addition, the operating temperature is certified to T6 (-55oC ≤ Ta ≤ +45oC).

The MTN/2200IT series is aimed more at analysis applications and features constant current accelerometers with isolated outputs for acceleration, in volts at a standard sensitivity of 100mV/g, and temperature at a sensitivity of 10mV/oC. The operating temperature for this series is certified to T4 (-55oC ≤ Ta ≤ +95oC).

Andy Anthony, Managing Director of Monitran, comments: “The monitoring of both vibration and temperature levels is at the heart of many predictive maintenance strategies. Adding a temperature measuring capability to our existing range of ATEX-certified sensors is a goal we’ve had for some time as, for instance, we understand most engineers view temperature as the foundation for bearing monitoring. Having put our robust dual-output sensors through the rigorous ATEX and IECEx certification processes, we’re able to provide our customers with a variety of products to meet their monitoring requirements in hazardous areas.”

Intrinsically-safe IR thermometer

A new, intrinsically-safe, infra-red (IR) thermometer, designed for electrical and HVAC installation and maintenance technicians and plant maintenance professionals working in hazardous (Zones 1 & 2) gas and vapour environments in process industries such as petroleum, oil and gas, chemical and pharmaceutical has been introduced by Fluke. With a 50:1 distance-to-spot ratio, it provides accurate measurements far away from inaccessible or potentially dangerous locations.

The rugged, easy-to-use Fluke 568Ex Intrinsically Safe Infrared Thermometer provides two-in-one, non-contact or contact, temperature measurement from -40degC to +800degC with ±1% accuracy. The three simple soft-key buttons allow quick navigation, via the graphical display, of advanced features to adjust emissivity (using a built-in material table), to start data logging for up to 99 points of data, or to turn alarms on and off. MIN, MAX, AVG and DIF functions help to quickly identify problems, while audible and visual alarms provide instant alerts to measurements outside the user’s set limits.

Two levels of backlight on the Fluke 568Ex ensure easy reading in most conditions. Supplied with a K-type thermocouple bead probe for contact measurement, it is also compatible with other non-Ex K-type mini-connector thermocouple probes. The Fluke 568Ex comes complete with a conductive hard carrying case, safe for carrying into hazardous areas.

HeavyDuty encoder is compliant to IECEx standard

EEx HOG 161 is the youngest Baumer HeavyDuty incremental encoder in explosion-proof design with IECEx certifcation in device category 2 G.

The encapsulated, pressure-proof device for enhanced safety is compliant to both ATEX Directive 94/9/EG for potentially explosive atmospheres (II 2 G Ex d e IIC T6 Gb) and IECEx scheme (Ex d e IIC T6 Gb) and this way allows for deployment in anyone of the 30 countries worldwide that have adopted the IECEx standard. In particular manufacturers of export-oriented equipment benefit from the international certification.

The encoder operates on the optical sensing technique and depending on the product variant provides 250 to 2.500 impulses per turn. Inner through-hollow shaft diameters from 30 to 70 mm, high bearing load capacity of 650 N radial and 450 N axial ensure maximum service life. The robust housing will reliably protect the encoder against adverse ambient conditions and the large terminal box enabling four different mounting positions will considerably ease electrical installation.

The Baumer Group is an international leading manufacturer and developer of sensors, encoders, measuring instruments and components for automated image-processing. Baumer combines innovative technology and customer-oriented service into intelligent solutions for factory and process automation and offers a uniquely wide range of related products and technologies.

With more than 2,500 employees and production plants, sales branches and agencies in 36 subsidiaries and 18 countries, the family-owned company is always close to the customer. Industrial clients in many sectors gain vital advantages and measurable added value from the worldwide consistency of Baumer’s high quality standards and its enormous innovative potential. For further information, visit www.baumer.com on the internet.

Certified in Functional Safety Management

MTL is now certified as a Functional Safety Management (FSM) Company. The International standard IEC 61508:2010 mandates that everyone involved in the safety systems lifecycle must demonstrate Functional Safety Management.

Assessed through an external certifying body (SIRA) which is audited by an accredited national body (UKAS), MTL demonstrates its competence to design and market products in accordance to the standard. This gives customers confidence and assurance of quality process management when using MTL products in safety instrumented systems (SIS) without the need for further verification of documentation.

MTL’s FSM is certified to cover a range of Signal interfaces, IS barriers, Isolators, Fieldbus Instruments, Alarm systems, Communication devices and Instrument Power Supplies. MTL continues to expand their FSM product offering with the latest additions to include the MTL4500 and MTL5500 series Isolators, which can now be now used in functional safety applications. Alongside this, the previously introduced MTL4850 Hart Multiplexer can now be used for connection to instrument loops performing safety functions up to and including Safety Integrity Level SIL3.

MTL currently shares its knowledge and expertise on hazardous areas and the relevant standards with its ATEX and Flammable Facts pocket posters. Following this accreditation MTL complements this with a Functional Safety poster which provides detailed information about the concepts of FSM and the standards that demand it.

I.S Vibration analysis!

ATEX Zone 0 approval enables users to safely monitor critical machinery health in hazardous areas

The CSI 2125-IS Machinery Health Analyser from Emerson is an intrinsically safe vibration analyser. It is certified for use in intrinsically safe IECEx and ATEX Zone 0 and Zone 1 hazardous areas. It also expands Emerson’s route-based machinery analyser portfolio so that users can access predictive diagnostics from hazardous areas of their operation. This enables users to make better decisions around machinery health for their entire plant, without compromising safety.

The CSI 2125-IS delivers similar route vibration analysis capabilities that users already expect from Emerson’s CSI 2130 Machinery Health Analyser and also includes Emerson’s patented PeakVue technology, providing the earliest indication of bearing and gearbox wear. It is the first intrinsically safe vibration analyser with PeakVue analysis capabilities.

Users of the CSI 2125-IS can customise alarm parameters and integrate collected data with AMS Suite asset management software for deeper analysis and collaboration with other machinery health technologies like oil and infrared analysis. The integration of field data with asset management functionality delivers an in-depth view of machinery condition and enables economical prioritisation and planning of corrective action.

The instrument is compact, lightweight, can operate for up to eight continuous hours, and features a touch screen for easy use in the field.

IS battery operated wireless sensors

The Massa Model M3 Family, marketed through Vydas,  consists of battery operated wireless level sensors that intercommunicate using ZigBee RF Modules. These sensors produce detection ranges from as close as 4 inches (100 mm) to 35 feet (11 meters). Incorporating state-of-the-art ultrasonic technology, the sensors provide precision non-contact distance measurement for liquid level or industrial process control applications.

The M3 Family of Wireless Level Sensors stand out over all other systems because of their affordability, extraordinary ease of operation and the ability to be set up without using a target. They transmit narrow beam sound pulses, process return echoes, and report the distance to the target. The M3 obtains and records range, temperature, battery voltage, sensor parameters, historical data and other information.

The package is rated for emersion and high pressure wash-down. The batteries are accessible for replacement. All of the sensors in the M3 Family are available in two versions. Standard M3 Sensors are designed for operation in typical industrial applications and the intrinsically safe M3is for use in hazardous environments.

New Ex i isolators for vibration sensors

Safe vibration detection in hazardous areas increases plant availability

The new 9147 series extends R. Stahl's ISpac family of Ex i isolators and added important functions: the transmitter supply units enable the use of vibration sensors in hazardous areas. These sensors for condition monitoring of plants and machines allow users to detect any damages at an early stage. Most vibration sensors are designed with the protection class Intrinsic Safety (Ex i) and require the use of isolators. The new 9147-type supply units support a very wide range of these sensors and transmitters. An easily accessible rotary switch allows for quick and easy configuration.

With a one and a two-channel version, Stahl offers customers versatile options: the two-channel version enables users to save 50% space in the switching cabinet, thereby reducing indirect installation costs. An optimal signal-to-noise-ratio ensures highly precise signal transmission. Like all ISpac isolators, the modules are available as single units on a DIN rail, with a common power supply and collective error message via the cost-saving pac-Bus, or in pac carriers. The pac carriers enable factory pre-wiring of plants, thus facilitating final mounting or retrofitting at a later date, and ensuring error-free installation of the isolators.

The detection of problematic vibrations is virtually indispensable in condition monitoring of process plants with rotating parts. By diagnosing danger long before a failure could happen, it helps prevent costly plant shutdowns. Generally, vibration detection is successful considerably earlier than temperature, speed, or acoustic measuring. Complete condition monitoring for machines of course also includes temperature sensors, discrete signals and 4...20 mA signals. R. Stahl's ISpac range of isolators offers users solutions for all possible signal combinations.

Stahl products are marketed in Ireland through Douglas Controls & Automation.

Intrinsically safe Fluke DMM delivers extreme ruggedness

Meets IS standards worldwide for safe measurements in dangerous environments

Fluke has introduced a new rugged, intrinsically-safe digital multimeter (DMM) that allows measurements both inside and outside of hazardous zones, without compromising measurement performance. The Fluke 28II Ex Digital Multimeter meets intrinsic safety (IS) standards worldwide for safe use inside potentially explosive environments, making it ideal for use in petroleum, chemical and pharmaceutical facilities.

The Fluke 28II Ex DMM features a high-resolution 20,000 count display and true-rms AC voltage and current readings, for accurate measurement on non-linear signals. It measures up to 1000V and 10A AC and DC and its low pass filter ensures accurate voltage and frequency measurements on variable speed motor drives. The built-in thermometer function measures temperature from -200°C to +1090 °C, reducing the number of tools that need to be carried.

The Fluke 28II Ex DMM 
• Intrinsically Safe: It meets global IS regulations, including ATEX, IEC Ex, ETL and GOST.
• Intrinsically rugged for use in the toughest environments: It is drop-proof up to three metres, with a totally sealed, IP 67 rated case for complete protection against dust and water. It can withstand hazardous 8,000V spikes caused by load switching or faults on industrial circuits.

• Intrinsically accurate and reliable: It provides all the test and troubleshooting power necessary for accurate measurements inside or outside potentially explosive areas. This eliminates the need to carry multiple meters for different areas, and removes the safety problems associated with crossing through an intrinsically safe-required zone with a non-IS instrument.

Backlit keypad buttons, large display digits and a two-level bright white background for visibility make it easy to use even when wearing full personal protective equipment. The battery lasts up to 800 hours and the separate battery compartment makes it easy to change batteries or fuses on the job without jeopardising the meter’s IS or IP ratings or sending the unit for servicing.

The Fluke 28II Ex comes complete with Fluke TL175 test leads, AC72 alligator clips, red holster, 9V battery (installed) and manuals. An optional magnetic hanger is available for easy, hands-free setup and viewing.

Bridging the Intrinsically-Safe Fieldbus Disconnect

MooreHawke, a division of Moore Industries has released a new white paper highlighting the various methods of connecting fieldbus devices in hazardous areas without compromising safety. “Bridging the Intrinsically-Safe Fieldbus Disconnect” (pdf), presents an overview of different ways to safely implement PROFIBUS PA or FOUNDATION fieldbus H1™ networks in hazardous areas while maintaining cost control and the inherent advantages of fieldbus.

The white paper highlights different methods of designing and installing fieldbus in hazardous areas including Entity, FISCO and High-Powered Trunk with field barriers. It also explores the High Power Intrinsically-Safe Trunk concept pioneered by MooreHawke. This method allows users to get up to 350mA of I.S. power into a hazardous area by utilizing a patented split-architecture design.

Readers of the white paper will have a better understanding of the complexities of Intrinsically-Safe fieldbus designs along with the history of innovations that have led to the latest industry advances. The white paper also includes a full-page chart highlighting key data points and installation advantages unique to each method.

Ex ia intrinsically safe solenoid operated pilot

Low power, intrinsically safe solenoid operator for use with ASCO Numatics spool valves, is compatible with all intrinsic safety isolation barriers

ASCO Numatics has introduced an intrinsically safe (Ex ia) solenoid operated pilot that is suitable for all hazardous areas, regardless of the gas zone and temperature class. The LISC solenoid operator is compatible with ASCO Numatics spool valves and has a low power consumption. Rated to IP67 it is approved for use in dusty atmospheres.

Ex ia protection enables the valve to be installed in explosive atmospheres up to zone 0-20. This makes it ideally suited to applications in the chemical, oil and pharmaceutical industries, or in processing and packaging plants for flammable products.

Compatible with all intrinsic safety isolated zener barriers, the solenoid features an aluminium body with an FPM seal and has a power rating of 0.46W at 12/24V DC. The pilot has a pressure rating of 2 to 10 bar and can be used in temperatures from -40°C to +65°C. The device is certified to IECEx/ATEX II 1G Ex ia IIC T6 Ga and II 2D Ex ib IIIC T85°C Db IP67.