Flame Detectors Now Available with HART Communications Protocol

The FL3100H UV/IR and FL3101H UV Flame Detectors from General Monitors (USA) are now compatible with the HART communication protocol. The FL3100H and FL3101H flame detectors are designed to detect fires

over a wide field of view and provide alarm outputs directly from the detector while maintaining false alarm immunity.

HART is a field-proven instrumentation communications protocol that is easy to use and provides uniform and consistent communication without disturbing the integrity of the 4-20 mA analog signal. In addition to the process variable, the HART protocol permits access to device configuration, diagnostics, as well as maintenance and alarm records. As a result, a whole host of additional information related to plant operation is available to the control room through HART. Unlike other digital communication protocols, HART is backwards compatible with the installed base of instrumentation in use today.

The Model FL3100H detects fires by monitoring in both the ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) spectral ranges, making it highly immune to false alarms caused by lightning, arc welding, hot objects and other sources

of radiation. The Model FL3101H monitors only the ultraviolet (UV) spectral range for optimised speed of response. Both devices feature continuous optical path monitoring (COPM), which ensures the FL3100H Series

offers exceptional fire protection.

The FL3100H and FL3101H operate over a broad temperature range and feature a 4-20 mA stepped output, which is the industry standard for alarm and fault indication. Each device includes three SPDT high current

programmable relay outputs that provide immediate and time delayed outputs for alarm, warn and fault conditions. They also include an RS-485 serial output with Modbus RTU protocol for linking up to 128 detectors in

series or 247 with repeaters. The RS-485 and HART outputs provide status, alarm, fault, and other information for operation, troubleshooting, or programming of the units. Since HART signals are carried over the same

wiring as is typically used for conventional analogue instruments, no rewiring is required.

Developed for use in a wide range of industries, the FL3100H and FL3101H detectors support oil and gas production, refining, distribution, and storage operations. Other applications include chemical processing, aircraft hangars, and electrostatic spray paint booths.