FB Zone 1

As part of its FB system remote I/O solution, Pepperl+Fuchs offers a 4-channel, universal input/output module for use in Zone 1 explosion-hazardous areas. 

Whether you want to connect 2-wire and 3-wire transmitters, or active signals coming from externally supplied field devices and 4-wire transmitters, as part of our remote I/O solution “FB system”, we offer analog modules with Ex i or Ex e terminals. They are available in 1-channel or 4-channel versions.

For processing input signals from binary sensors or mechanical contacts from the field, digital input modules feature Ex ia or Ex e terminals. They are ideally suited for connecting NAMUR proximity switches, optocouplers, or volt-free contacts. FB system remote I/O digital inputs are available in 2-channel, 3-channel, or 8-channel versions. 

Frequency measurement is used to detect several process variables on rotating machines and flow transmitters. Frequency input modules feature Ex ia or Ex e terminals and are available in 1-channel versions, making them the right choice for users who value system granularity and easy commissioning.

Temperature measurement is one of the most safety-critical applications in process automation—especially in explosion-hazardous areas. These temperature input modules with Ex i terminals allow connection of different resistance thermometers (2-, 3- and 4-wire Pt100 ... Pt1000), thermocouples, and mV signals and are available in 1-channel and 4-channel versions.

For applications like controlling industrial cranes, or drilling derricks with joystick controls, Pepperl+Fuchs offers voltage input modules. They feature Ex ia terminals and are available as 1-channel versions, supporting high system granularity.

Whether for control of proportional valves, positioners, actuators, local display units or I/P converters—analog outputs from Pepperl+Fuchs FB system remote I/O solution are a fixture in process automation applications. They feature terminals in type of protection Ex ia or Ex e and are available in 1-channel and 4-channel versions.

For control of intrinsically-safe solenoid valves, LED clusters, beacons, horns or other standard switching functions, Pepperl+Fuchs provides digital output modules, featuring terminals in type of protection Ex i or Ex e. Digital Outputs are available with different channel numbers to cover diverse application requirements.

Many applications include basic ON/OFF switching routines. For instance, simple status and alarm indication is noted via beacons, flashlights, sirens, or horns. To control these indicators, solenoid valves, or other switching functions in Zone 1 explosion-hazardous areas, Pepperl+Fuchs provides relay output modules with Ex e terminals. They are available in 2-, 4- and 8-channel versions.

Remote I/O power supplies are available in 24 V DC, 115 V AC, and 230 V AC versions and feed the I/O modules and com units/gateways that are mounted on the corresponding backplane. The FB remote I/O power supplies feature galvanic isolation to mains power and can be operated in redundancy mode.

For easy connection of I/O modules from FB system remote I/O solution to a DCS, SCADA system, or PLC, Pepperl+Fuchs offers com unit modules (gateways). They are available for various industrial communication protocols and feature Ex e terminals for end-to-end bus connection between mounting backplanes and higher-level process control.

For mounting the interface modules of the remote I/O FB system, Pepperl+Fuchs offers backplanes for use in Zone 1 explosion-hazardous areas. 

Field units ensure protection of all electronic components from harsh ambient conditions. There are two types of enclosure materials available: enclosures made from lightweight glass fiber reinforced polyester and enclosures made from electropolished 316L stainless steel. Both enclosure types meet degree of protection IP66. An integrated return flange prevents water ingress at the one-piece seal.

Pepperl+Fuchs offers many accessories to enable custom-fit remote I/O installations. Various bus termination modules and a fiber optic coupler and repeater are available, as well as cables to connect base and extension backplanes used for module mounting. Multiple terminal blocks, protective covers, cold junction modules, and placeholder modules are also part of this portfolio. The range is rounded out by multifunction terminals suitable for fusing solenoid valves, alarm indicators, sounders etc, as well as diode decoupling of power supplies.