Endress+Hauser is launching the new Cerabar and Deltabar pressure gauges. Thanks to their Bluetooth interface, they are easier to operate and more efficient to maintain in safety-critical systems. The high level of safety combined with enhanced productivity follows our smart safety approach to increase plant availability. Heartbeat Technology allows the devices’ functionality to be verified without process interruption. The new pressure transmitters will be launched in the 4th quarter of 2020.
Process safety improvements
For improved process safety the devices are designed following the Safety by Design guidelines according to IEC 61508. Virtual wizards to guide through the SIL lock and proof test and thus prevent operating errors are included. For speeding up inspection processes a checksum (CRC) to see at a glance if security parameters have been changed. There are various reasons why ease of operation is a major advantage. Many industries are struggling with an increasing lack of qualified personnel. Major plant revisions often involve service providers whose personnel do not have a thorough knowledge of the equipment and systems on site.
The amount of safety-related equipment has also increased significantly in recent years, for example in the chemical industry, and with it the number of costly proof tests of the safety integrity level.(SIL)
Operation made easy
To meet all these developments, we have simplified the new Cerabar and Deltabar pressure measurement line. This is reflected in its intuitive operation via the SmartBlue app, which includes guided operating sequences for commissioning and SIL proof tests. This is made possible by an additional Bluetooth interface, which bridges distances of up to 15 m. Thus even measuring points that are difficult to reach or in hazardous areas are easy to maintain. The NAMUR roadmap "Process-Sensors 4.0" names three key criteria for digital process sensors: wireless communication, sensor diagnosis and the provision of information about the sensor and the process. With the optionally available Bluetooth® and Heartbeat Technology functions, the new Cerabar and Deltabar product lines meet these criteria.
Heartbeat Technology
For example, Heartbeat Technology supports maintenance staff in verifying their measuring points. This can be done via a Bluetooth connection and the SmartBlue app in less than 3 minutes without process interruption. A verification protocol, which provides detailed information about all tests, is generated automatically. It achieves a total test coverage of over 95 percent. Now it is possible to plan plant revisions and maintenance work for measuring devices in advance and reduce downtimes.
