Fluid Components International ST100 Series air/gas flow meter

The ST100 Series thermal mass air/gas flow meter from Fluid Components International (FCI) has obtained full certification from the Hart Foundation for its hardware and DD files, indicating full compliance with the Hart Communication Protocol. The protocol represents the global standard for instrumentation communications, providing two-way digital communication between intelligent field instruments and host systems without disturbing the integrity of the 4-20 mA analog signal.

The product continuously measures, displays and transmits an extensive array of parameters. In addition to the Hart Communication Protocol, it is available with 4-20 mA analog, frequency/pulse, alarm relays and additional digital bus communications including Fieldbus, Profibus and Modbus. Should a plant’s needs change over time or an upgrade be desirable, the instrument adapts as necessary with a plug-in card replacement that can be changed out by plant technicians in the field.

The product stores up to five calibration groups to accommodate broad flow ranges, differing mixtures of the same gas and multiple gases, and obtains up to 1000:1 turndown. An optional SpectraCal Gas Equivalency calibration method lets users select and switch between 10 common gases. The onboard data logger features an easily accessible, removable 2 GB micro-SD memory card capable of storing 21 million readings. The meter also features a graphical, multivariable, backlit LCD display/readout which provides continuous display of all process measurements and alarm status, and the ability to interrogate for service diagnostics.

The product is said to be the first thermal flow meter to offer three different types of flow sensors to best match user applications. The fast-response FPC style features an integral flow conditioner and protective shroud optimised for compressed air and clean gas applications. The fast-response, general-purpose FP style features a protective shroud and is the sensor used with FCI’s VeriCal in-situ calibration option. For wet or dirty gases, or erratic flows, the unshrouded S style facilitates easy cleaning and provides a smoothed response.

The instrument can be calibrated to measure virtually any process gas, including wet gas, mixed gases and dirty gases. The basic insertion-style air/gas meter features a thermal flow sensing element that measures flow from 0.07 to 305 NMPS with accuracy of ±0.75% of reading, ±0.5% of full scale.

Designed for rugged industrial processes and plants, the flow meters include service up to 454°C and are available with both integral and remote 300 metres electronics versions. The product is agency approved for hazardous environments, including the entire instrument, the transmitter and the rugged, NEMA 4X/IP67 rated enclosure.