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How Clamp-on Flow Measurement Solutions were used for Hazardous Areas & ATEX Zones

PanaFlow LC Clamp-on Liquid Flow Meter (XMT1000) and its transducers in junction boxes installed on a pipe

Abstract

RS Hydro was not only approached to deliver multiple clamp-on ultrasonic flowmeter systems, but they were entrusted with the critical task of ensuring these systems were not just functional but also compliant with the stringent safety requirements of ATEX/Hazardous area environments. This combination of technical expertise and regulatory compliance demonstrates RS Hydro's commitment to delivering solutions that not only meet performance expectations but also adhere to the highest safety standards, a testament to their dedication to customer satisfaction and safety.

Industry

Oil & Gas, Pharmaceutical and general industrial environments

Equipment Used

Panametrics XMT1000LC clamp-on flowmeter transmitter complete with low test report/Calibration Certificate Hazardous area flowmeter cable C-RS 402 complete with junction boxes and flow test report/Calibration Certificate

RS Hydro often supply clamp-on flowmeter systems for use in multiple different environments. Clamp-on flowmeter systems can be provided for indoor and outdoor environments and environments without power. However, an occasional requirement is for clamp-on flowmeters that are suitable for use inside of hazardous areas or ATEX zones. Hazardous areas are zones within a production or processing facility whereby the atmosphere contains gases, dusts and vapours which are explosive. These gases, dusts and vapours can be found in sufficient quantities within the zone. Therefore, there is an inherent risk of fire or explosion in these areas. ATEX refers to the two European directives (Directive 99/92/EC and Directive 2014/34/EU) that apply to controlling explosive areas. Within these zones, installed instrumentation systems must have suitable specification options selected, so that the systems adhere to the certification standards required for hazardous areas, and ultimately protect the hazardous area and those within the area to the best possible standard.

This makes choosing ATEX rated systems a more involved process compared to choosing standard safe area systems. Two separate customers required clamp-on flowmeter systems for use in hazardous areas to measure water flow in pipes between 2" and 4" in diameter. The Panametrics XMT1000LC flowmeter transmitter meets ATEX/Hazardous area approval requirements as standard (certification standard ATEX/IECEx: Ex d IIC). The XMT1000LC is Panametrics latest and greatest flowmeter system, combining Panametrics' level of measurement accuracy and system reliability with a great cost package for an advanced clamp-on flowmeter system. Accuracy can be enhanced through selection of the XMT1000LCs dual path capability, which improves flow accuracy through the addition of extra sensors monitoring the point of flow measurement on the process pipe. The XMT1000LC is available with hazardous area rated co-axial cables and transducer connection junction boxes. Flow test reports and calibration certification was provided, as well as copies of the system's ATEX certification.

Additional Information

Panametrics XMT1000LC is available for safe areas and hazardous areas. Other products and services related to the XMT1000LC include PanaView Plus software, Panametrics brand new interface for programming, measuring flow and diagnostics relating to Panametrics systems. RS Hydro can also install and commission the XMT1000LC. For more information or assistance on the XMT1000LC, reach out to RS Hydro's sales team.