Measuring Under Extreme Environmental Conditions

Measuring under extreme environmental conditions

Measuring technology for marine applications

The automation of special ships, particularly those for constructing offshore installations is characterized by the constantly growing complexity of processes. Ships are comparable with large chemical engineering plants in which a countless number of subsystems are interconnected in an overall system. As part of its M1 automation system, Bachmann is now offering the AI208M1/SI analog current input module as the ideal measuring system for this type of application.

Current input module as a universal measuring system

Eight single galvanically isolated channels are compactly arranged on the 55 mm wide AI208/SI module. The measuring ranges can be switched between 4 to 20 mA and 0 to 20 mA. For sensors with positive and negative values, such as flow meters, the measuring range can be switched to +/- 20 mA via software. The inputs have a 13 to 16-bit resolution. In order to ensure optimum signal quality whilst minimizing interference at the same time, each of the eight channels is provided with a steep signal filter that can be set between 2.5 Hz and 2.5 kHz.

Process monitoring and fault diagnostics

The value ranges can be set as required between +/- 25mA for monitoring the inputs of the AI208/SI automatically. If a channel exceeds the defined process value range, a warning is sent to the higher-level application, and a fault message is sent if the measuring range is exceeded. These messages can be evaluated for monitoring the process and for fault diagnostics. Short-circuits, cable breaks and sensor faults are thus reliably detected. The operator is then provided with practical operating instructions in order to rectify the fault.

Robust design determines reliability

The inputs of the AI208/SI are short-circuit proof and galvanically isolated. This protects the module from damage and from the effects of mutual interference between the channels, which occurs, for example, when the sensors have different potentials, with external voltages, or when hidden compensation currents are present. The standard module is suitable for an operating temperature range from -30 °C to +60 °C (storage temperature: -40 °C to +85 °C).

For applications with more demanding requirements, such as moisture condensation resistance during operation, the measuring module is also available in a coldclimate version. A robust polymer coating provides the module with effective protection from condensation and corrosion from salty air.

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Bachmann AI208/SI: Compact, robust and reliable.

Photo credits: Bachmann electronic

Further information:

Alexandra Lorünser

Market Communication

Bachmann electronic GmbH

Kreuzäckerweg 33

6800 Feldkirch, Austria

Tel.: +43 (0) 5522/3497-0

E-mail:

http://www.bachmann.info