Product category:
Shutdown, SIS and safety systems
News Release from: Elfab | Subject: Flo-tel switch ELF05-02
Edited by the Processingtalk Editorial
Team on 01 April 2003
Elfab Flo-Tel switch alarm for bursting
discs
Leading pressure safety systems provider Elfab has enhanced its Flo-Tel switch range to meet the European ATEX Directive (Atmospheres Explosibles) 100A for monitoring bursting discs and panels
Using the intrinsic safety method of protection, the Integral Flo-Tel has been awarded the highest level of protection for electrical equipment intended for use in explosive atmospheres When ATEX 100A becomes statutory in June 2003, the switches of many manufacturers currently used to indicate that bursting discs and bursting panels have operated will be excluded from use
This article was originally published on Processingtalk on 1 Apr 2003 at 8.00am (UK)
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Most alarm systems are activated via fluid flow created after a bursting disc has operated.
In contrast, Integral Flo-Tel is installed on the vent side of bursting disc and bursting panel devices and is activated by the operation of the disc or panel.
During operation, a magnet arcs away from its rest position, removing the magnetic field from a sensor, and comes to rest in a position, which no longer influences the sensor.
This causes the sensor to switch to its fail-safe condition of an open circuit and a latched alarm condition is the result.
After operation, the bursting disc or panel, complete with magnet, is the only part of the Integral Flo-Tel that requires replacing.
The sensor cable can be easily withdrawn from the bursting disc holder, prior to the holder being removed from the flange, and does not need to be electrically disconnected from the control system.
The new Integral Flo-Tel offers an extended temperature range and improved environmental protection to IP67.
It is suitable for use in both chemically aggressive and hygienic environments.
Since all of the fragile electrical parts in the switch are situated outside of the pipe or vent bore, they are subject to much higher levels of mechanical protection than more traditional warning systems, and therefore benefit from a greatly reduced potential for spurious alarms.
The rated burst pressure of the complete disc or panel assembly will not be affected by the addition of the magnet, and the design ensures that fragmentation of the assembly should be prevented.
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