Posted to News on 10th Mar 2009, 10:20
MTS has released absolute linear-position sensors that are now available as versions approved for installation in hazardous areas. They are suitable for use in a potentially explosive atmosphere containing flammable gases (groups IIA, IIB, IIC) and dusts. An independent test body certified the sensors in compliance with the European ATEX directive 94/9/EC.
With aboveground applications, the explosion-proof versions of the Temposonics R- and G-Series position sensors meet the requirements of instrument categories 3D (Zone 2) and 3G (Zone 22). When the sensors are operated in these zones, although the atmosphere presents the corresponding explosion risk, there is no hazard of inflammation. The transducers are available with rod- or profile-shaped housings and analogue, CAN, SSI or Start/Stop interfaces. The maximum surface temperature is 135degC in a gas-containing atmosphere and 100degC if dust is present in the environment.
The position sensors' long life cycle and their high degree of safety are the results of a robust construction. Various protection types preclude them from being a source of inflammation when operating inside an explosion-hazarded atmosphere. When installed in hazardous areas containing dust, the airtight sensor housing ensures that the operation is safe. The IP67-rated housing protects the sensors against ingress of dust and water. As the formation of sparks during operation is prevented, the transducers can be operated securely in an atmosphere containing gas.
Due to the ATEX approval, the field of application of the non-contact, wear-free Temposonics linear-position sensors is extended. Explosion-protected versions are now safe for measuring applications in hazardous areas, such as paper, textile and wood processing industries, for power generation, energy supply and gas turbines as well as the paint industry.
