Flow switch/monitor receives Zone 2 ATEX, IECEx approvals
FS10A from FCI is optimized for continuous flow verification in process analyzer sampling systems.
Fluid Components International (FCI) has announced that its advanced model FS10A flow switch/monitor from has received ATEX and IECEx approvals. With these approvals, the device is suitable for continuous flow verification applications supporting process analyzer sampling systems operating in hazardous plant areas in the European Community and elsewhere worldwide. The FS10A’s ATEX and IECEx approvals are as follows: II 3 G Ex nA IIC T4 Gc, II 3 D Ex tc IIIC T T81ºC Dc, IP64; Ex nA and Ex t, Ex nA IIC T4 Gc, II 3 D Ex tc IIIC T81ºC Dc. The ATEX and IEC approvals specify design criteria for flowmeters and other electrically-powered instruments for use in areas where combustible gases may be present. These approvals assure the instrument has been designed and tested to operate safely in such hazardous conditions.
The model FS10A flow switch/monitor represents the next-generation, low-cost solution for continuously verifying flows within liquid or gas process analyzer sampling systems. It is a small, lightweight instrument featuring superior low flow sensitivity, a relay alarm trip point, an analog output, and an RS232 interface. Its advanced electronics and thermal-dispersion flow sensing technology provide a superior overall solution to sampling system flow assurance.
The design features a precision flow sensor element with no moving parts to foul, clog, or maintain. Unlike capillary bypass flowmeters and controllers, the FS10A has no cavities, orifices, or dead-legs that can trap fluids and lead to contaminated samples. The instrument’s wetted parts are corrosion-resistant 316L stainless steel with Hastelloy-C22 sensor tips.
The FS10A Flow Switch/Monitor is designed for use with nearly all types of process and emissions sampling systems, including gas chromatographs (GCs), mass spectrometers, optical spectrometers, photometers and others. Standard configurations will accommodate 1/8-, 1/4-, 3/8-, and 1/2-inch sampling tubes as well as an SP76 adapter (ANSI/ISA Standard 76.00.02-2002, Modular Component Interfaces for Surface-Mount Fluid Distribution Components). SP76 is a key element of the NeSSITM platform (New Sampling/Sensor Initiative). The FS10A conforms to NeSSI Generation I and is prepped for Generation II and III compliance, requiring only a single 1.5 x 1.5-in. SP76 base.
Edited by Peter Welander, pwelander(at)cfemedia.com
Case Study Database
Get more exposure for your case study by uploading it to the Plant Engineering case study database, where end-users can identify relevant solutions and explore what the experts are doing to effectively implement a variety of technology and productivity related projects.
These case studies provide examples of how knowledgeable solution providers have used technology, processes and people to create effective and successful implementations in real-world situations. Case studies can be completed by filling out a simple online form where you can outline the project title, abstract, and full story in 1500 words or less; upload photos, videos and a logo.
Click here to visit the Case Study Database and upload your case study.
2012 Salary Survey
In a year when manufacturing continued to lead the economic rebound, it makes sense that plant manager bonuses rebounded. Plant Engineering’s annual Salary Survey shows both wages and bonuses rose in 2012 after a retreat the year before.
Average salary across all job titles for plant floor management rose 3.5% to $95,446, and bonus compensation jumped to $15,162, a 4.2% increase from the 2010 level and double the 2011 total, which showed a sharp drop in bonus.