On 22 February, the branch hosted its monthly technology evening where Gary Friend from Extech Safety Systems presented on the subject ‘Intrinsic Safety Applications’. For a resurging branch, the committee members were delighted to see the turnout for the event. The venue was full, and members mingled while they enjoyed snacks and refreshments before the presentation started.
Gary Friend engages the audience during the well-attended technology presentation.
Gary covered a wide range of topics including an update on the SABS TC165 Industrial Process Measurement, Control and Automation standard; surge protection in IS (intrinsic safety) loops; running cables through IS trucking; cable lengths for IS loops; using IS isolators in SIL (safety integrity level) loops; and mobile devices for hazardous areas.
Surge protection is compulsory for instruments in Zone 0. The general rule of thumb is that surge protection should be fitted if field wiring is greater than 100 m, or the instrument is more than 10 m above ground. A surge protection device can be used to protect the field device, a second one can be used to land field wiring to isolate and protect the control system.
Gary showed the SANS60079-11:2012 standard table for cable parameters and the impact of Zone (0, 1 or 2) and Gas Group (IIA IIB IIC) on the allowed output capacitance. He then went on to explain using IS isolators in SIL loops. The SIL is a dimension of probability for the safety instrumented function (SIF) to bring the process to a safe mode as per demand, which can be structured to achieve the required low probability of failure.
Under applications for Ex mobile devices Gary included VOIP in underground coal mines, Bluetooth barcode scanners, 1D/2D, IS cameras as well as cell phones and tablets. These certified devices are extremely robust and incorporate high-quality protection.
The branch thanks Gary for this informative presentation, which was well received. Thanks also to all members and guests who created a great atmosphere and energy at the event. We hope to see you all again soon.
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