Fieldbus transmitter added to MT3809 series variable area flow meters
Don Horne
Brooks Instrument has added a new FOUNDATION™ Fieldbus transmitter to its popular MT3809 variable area (VA) flow meter, making it easier for users to integrate the unit into their automation control systems for more efficient data capture and digital communication across the plant enterprise. The MT3809 metal tube VA flow meter is designed for extreme conditions in chemicals, petrochemicals, oil and gas, and LP gas applications. Proven to deliver reliable, repeatable gas and liquid flow measurement and control in thousands of installed locations, the MT3809 is a practical and economical “go-to” choice for engineering procurement contractors and specifiers for major industrial facilities worldwide.
Rich Data Available With FOUNDATION™ Fieldbus Interface
The FOUNDATION Fieldbus transmitter is a compact microprocessor device that interfaces directly with the MT3809 flow meter. A single 2-wire bus connection compliant with the international FOUNDATION Fieldbus standard provides power to the transmitter and communications access. The flow meter itself does not require power.
The new transmitter makes it easier to access multiple MT3809 VA flow meter variables, including:
• Flow rates
• Totalization, both resettable and inventory measurement
• Temperatures
• Densities
• Calibration factors
• Hi-low alarm parameters, which enable facilities and systems operators to be notified if gas or fluid flow rates fall outside set values
In addition, the MT3809 VA flow meter has a local operator interface with LCD display for insight into flow status and fluid measurement. These outputs are configurable and can be shown in various engineering units. Operators can also change parameters without removing the housing cover, enabling changes to be made in hazardous areas.
The FOUNDATION Fieldbus transmitter on the Brooks Instrument MT3809 VA flow meter is equipped with the most up-to-date version of the FOUNDATION Fieldbus protocol, ITK 6.0. The transmitter and alarm options have worldwide safety approvals as well as SIL 2 safety certification.
With the MT3809 VA flow meter, users can specify a single flow meter model that works across an extremely wide range of high and low flow rates and operating temperatures — from -198ºC to 420ºC (-325ºF to 788ºF) — with a maximum pressure rating up to 6,000 psi (413 bar) for standard units. In addition, the explosion-proof housing meets the most stringent hazardous-area classifications worldwide while a flameproof option is available for IIC/Class 1, Division 1 locations.
