E-T-A Circuit Breakers has obtained the very latest stringent ATEX 100a approvals for its microcontroller operated FM 1-Ex flow meter, with the digital display authorised for Zone 2 operation.

When used in conjunction with the approved E-T-A calorimetric monitoring head, the meter can be used in 'Zone 2' explosive areas to monitor and display flow rates and temperature of air, water and other media. E-T-A has obtained full approval to the latest standards as a competent manufacturer of Ex devices according to the requirements of ATEX 100a. These IEC approvals ensure the safety and free trade of Ex products for their use anywhere within the European Union.

The new approvals obtained also specifically cover the E-T-A FM 1-Ex Electronic Flow Meter and E-T-A CST-Ex Calorimetric Monitoring Head.

The complete metering combination is approved for use in Zone 2 applications provided the Ex requirements are observed.

The FM 1-Ex and CST-Ex combination will measure water flow rates from 0.05 m/s to 3 m/s, and air from 0.1 m/s up to 20 m/s.

Metering information on the FM 1-Ex is menu driven by the operation of keypads on the front of the unit.

Readout is given on a 2-line x 16 digit LCD display.

Digital readouts of actual flow rate, mass or volume flow rate and medium temperature are provided, whilst bar-graphs give an indication of flow rates, flow quantities, fluid temperature and status of the pre-set limit contacts.

Other keypad combinations provide parameter set up and fault diagnosis.

The meter features two scalable analogue outputs of flow and temperature measurement, with a choice of current or voltage output.

Signal outputs are also provided, with a choice between relays or transistors, which are manually pre-set via the keypad to switch at upper and lower limits.

Status indication is also provided separately in the case of transistorised output.

The thread-mount CST-Ex calorimetric monitoring head is connected by a lead of up to 50m.

The sensor probes are stainless steel as standard, or with Hastelloy or titanium to special order.

The head has a G1/2A threaded shank with 14mm long sensors.