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All-rounder:
Applications + Knowledge
| News for Process Automation 1/2016
Pepperl+Fuchs has added a new product to the
Wireless
HART port
folio: A loop-powered Ex-d
Wireless
HART adapter for use in harsh
environments. While battery-powered adapters have been part of the
product portfolio for some time now, the “BULLET” opens up a whole
new range of possibilities, not least through its modified power supply
and its ability to connect up to eight field devices (multidrop proce-
dure). The BULLET can also be used in all zones/divisions – a key
benefit.
The BULLET – the Ideal Extension
to the Existing Portfolio
With the acquisition of global HART specialist MACTek, and with it, the
BULLET adapter for use in explosion-hazardous areas, Pepperl+Fuchs
is expanding its product range. “This acquisition complements our
current product lines well, and allows us to provide an even greater
breadth of services to our customers,” says Jim Bolin, Executive Vice
President for the Americas at Pepperl+Fuchs. But what is so special
about the new adapter with its robust-sounding name?
Loop power enables HART data from already wired HART field devices
to be communicated in a completely wireless process. The power is
supplied by the 4 mA … 20 mA loop that is already installed. With the
patented StepVolt technology, the existing loop power and bandwidth
can be used for optimum wireless communication. The user can select
a voltage between 1 V and 2.5 V. “By drawing on this technology, the
BULLET is able to deliver reliable data, even if only a low voltage
is available,” Mr. Bolin continues, adding: “In addition to the Ex-d
Wireless
HART adapter, an Ex-i version of the BULLET even makes
it possible to use this durable adapter in Zone 0.”
If the plant already features a 24-V power supply, the adapter and field
device can be powered by this supply and transfer data to the process
control system wirelessly.
The Robust
BULLET
Wireless
HART
To ensure flawless wireless communication in a process plant, the right
backbone is required. If this network communication also offers fast commissioning,
easy maintenance, and a high level of immunity to interference, it must be
Wireless
HART
technology in action.
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