The Ives Equipment Process Engineering & Control Blog
Educational information on process control, industrial instrumentation, valves, valve automation and control valves. For additional information visit IvesEquipment.com or call 877-768-1600
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Meeting the Highest Standards: SITRANS FS230's New FM Class I Division 1 and Equivalent Certifications
The SITRANS FS230 clamp-on industrial ultrasonic flow measurement system now boasts FM (Factory Mutual) Class I Division 1 and equivalent certifications. These enhanced approvals equip the FS230 to tackle the most demanding hazardous liquid or gas flow applications while maintaining top-notch performance and user-friendly operation.
The system features a "Digital Sensor Link" (DSL) as an external communication module for the SITRANS FST030 transmitter, specifically designed for hazardous applications. The DSL processes analog signals from the transducers, promptly converting the measured values into digital flow data. This information is then sent to the transmitter for processing. As a result, the system produces a robust, hazardous area-approved signal that is virtually impervious to interference, even in cable runs of up to 500 feet.
In nearly any hazardous environment where process flow must be measured without disrupting the pipe or the medium, the FS230 clamp-on ultrasonic flow meter presents an ideal solution.
Factory Mutual (FM) is an independent, third-party certification organization that tests and approves various products and equipment to ensure their safety and reliability in industrial and commercial settings. FM Global, the parent company, is a world-renowned insurance company specializing in property risk management and loss prevention.
In terms of hazardous area classification, Class 1, Division 1 (C1D1) refers to an environment where flammable gases, vapors, or liquids exist under normal operating conditions or may frequently exist due to maintenance, repair, or leakage. This classification is critical for industries like oil and gas, petrochemical, and chemical processing, where a spark or heat source could lead to an explosion or fire.
FM approval for C1D1 hazardous areas signifies that the equipment, devices, or products have undergone rigorous testing and meet stringent safety standards for use in these highly hazardous environments. This approval is critical because it helps to:
- Ensure the safety of employees working in these areas.
- Prevent catastrophic accidents or disasters due to equipment failure or malfunction.
- Minimize the likelihood of costly downtime, property damage, or loss of production.
- Provide a high level of confidence in the performance and reliability of the equipment.
- Demonstrate compliance with relevant industry standards and regulatory requirements.
In summary, FM approval for Class 1, Division 1 hazardous areas is crucial to maintaining a safe working environment, protecting valuable assets, and ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations.
Interface Detection in Differentiated Liquid Pipe Flow with Clamp-on Ultrasonic Meter
- Detecting gasoline interfaces
- Identifying multi-product interfaces
- Determining product types
- Managing automatic batching control
- Detecting entrained water and gas presence in all products
Electronic Pressure and Temperature Switches
- Greater accuracy: Electronic switches use electronic sensing elements, which are more accurate than mechanical ones.
- Faster response time: Electronic switches can respond much faster to changes in pressure or temperature than mechanical switches.
- Greater durability: Electronic switches have no moving parts, so they are less likely to wear out or fail.
- Increased flexibility: Electronic switches can be programmed to perform a variety of functions and are easily integrated with other electronic devices.
- Lower maintenance: Electronic switches require less maintenance than mechanical switches, as they have no moving parts to wear out.
- Greater control: Electronic switches can be programmed for various set points and output multiple signals.
- Cost Savings: Electronic switches are generally less expensive over their lifetime because of their durability and lower maintenance requirements.