2 principle of operation, 3 system limitations – VEGA POINTRAC 31 8_16 mA_HART - four-wire With SIL qualification User Manual
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3 Product description
POINTRAC 31 • 8/16 mA/HART - four-wire
43388-EN-131119
•
Software from 1.6.0
•
Modification status electronics from -07
The instrument is available in different electronics versions. Each ver-
sion can be identified via the product code on the type label:
•
Standard electronics type PT30E-XX
The scope of delivery encompasses:
•
Radiation-based sensor
•
Mounting accessory
•
Documentation
– this operating instructions manual
– Safety Manual (SIL) PROTRAC series 30 (Document-ID 42961)
– Operating instructions manual "Display and adjustment mod-
ule" (optional)
– Ex-specific "Safety instructions" (with Ex versions)
– if necessary, further certificates
3.2 Principle of operation
The instrument is suitable for applications in liquids and bulk solids in
vessels under difficult process conditions. There are application pos-
sibilities in nearly all areas of industry.
The limit level is detected contactlessly through the vessel wall. Nei-
ther a process fitting nor a vessel opening is required. The instrument
is thus ideal for retrofitting.
In radiation-based measurement, a Caesium-137 or Cobalt-60 iso-
tope emits focussed gamma rays that are attenuated when penetrat-
ing the vessel wall and the medium. The PVT detector on the opposite
side of the tank receives the radiation. When the intensity of the
radiation drops below a defined value, e.g. due to damping, then the
POINTRAC 31 switches. The measuring principle has proven itself
well under extreme conditions because it measures contactlessly
from outside through the vessel wall. The measuring system ensures
maximum safety, reliability and plant availability independent of the
medium and its properties.
3.3 System limitations
There are several measuring principle-specific factors which can influ-
ence the measuring result. Keep these factors in mind in order to fully
utilize the capabilities of the instrument with respect to measurement
certainty and reproducibility.
The implemented radioactive isotope and its activity must be selected
according to the properties of the vessel and the medium. The neces-
sary radioactive activity must be calculated on the basis of the plant
data.
Electronics versions
Scope of delivery
Application area
Functional principle
Activity of the source