Wednesday, July 12, 2006

Particle size analysis in hazardous areas

The new Malvern Insitec D is a fully integrated on-line particle size measurement solution designed for use in environments where there is the potential for dust explosions
The new Malvern Insitec D is a fully integrated on-line particle size measurement solution designed for use in environments where there is the potential for dust explosions. Underpinned by Malvern’s long-established Insitec particle sizing technology, the Insitec D has both NEC500 and ATEX approval. It is an ideal choice for manufacturers seeking a highly reliable, continuous particle size analyser that is able to comply fully with the ATEX 137 Worker Protection Directive 1992/92/EC.

The ATEX 137 Worker Protection Directive 1992/92/EC, which became mandatory in July 2003, requires that new equipment for use in potentially hazardous environments is ATEX approved.

Dust explosion protection falls under the directive: zones analogous to those that are already well established for gas explosions have been defined.

The Malvern Insitec D is designed and approved for use in Zone 22 areas - those where a hazardous explosive atmosphere would only be expected to occur fleetingly, or as the result of an abnormal operation.

With respect to North America the instrument has NEC 500 rating for Classes II and III, Divisions 1 and 2.

The Malvern Insitec is a particle size analyser based on the technique of laser diffraction and is designed specifically to meet industrial requirements for on-line measurement.

The working range is 0.5 to 1000 microns.

To meet the requirements for ATEX approval, the Insitec D has a limited maximum equipment temperature.

Captive connectors and enclosures are also used to ensure system integrity.