ATEX Amplifiers

FAQs > ATEX Amplifiers

Welcome to the Knowledge Centre

We hope the information on this page helps to answer and provide information about the ALA5 and ICA5ATEX ATEX approved analogue output signal conditioners. If you have any other questions about the instrument, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Frequently Asked Questions About the ALA5/ICA5ATEX

Q: What Strain Gauge parameters is the ALA5 designed for?

A: Designed for a 1k bridge, however, 350R can be used at the expense of noise and drift performance due to the reduced excitation voltage on the bridge. It is factory set for 2.5mV/V.

Q: What do the ATEX markings mean?

II 1 G Ex ia IIC T4
Tamb = -40°C to +85°C
CE0891 TRAC09ATEX1xxxX

ATEX Marking details
	Explosion protection
II	Equipment group: industrial
1	Equipment category: very high protection
G	Hazard: gas atmosphere - zones 0,1 and 2
Certification Code details
Ex	Explosion protection
ia	Intrinsic safety according to EN60079-11 (previously EN 50020)
IIC	Hydrogen/Acetylene gas group
T4	Temperature Classification – surface temperature <135°C

 

Q: What is ATEX?

A: The term 'ATEX' comes from the French word 'atmosphére explosibles'. It is the name commonly given to the framework for controlling explosive atmospheres and the standards of equipment and protective systems used in them. It is based on the requirements of two European Directives. One that applies to equipment manufacturers and another for its end users, both Directives came into effect on 1 July 2003.

The ATEX regulation removes the need for separate testing by joining the technical and legal standards for manufacturing of equipment that may potentially be used in explosive atmospheres .

ATEX regulations apply to all equipment intended for use in explosive atmospheres, whether electrical or mechanical, and also protective systems. Manufacturers must ensure that their products meet essential health and safely requirements and undergo appropriate conformity procedures.

Q: Can I embed the OEM device into my own loadcell?

A: Yes, the ICA5ATEX amplifier is designed to fit into a pocket in a certified loadcell.
Please note: OEM customers must hold a notified body Quality Assurance Notification (QAN) and ensure that the load cell and amplifier assembly is submitted for ATEX certification by an appropriate body.

Q: Is a barrier needed for Zones 1 and 2?

A: Yes, a barrier is needed for all ATEX installations. Please contact us for more information.

Q: Can I extend the output cable on the ALA5?

A: Yes by use of an ATEX approved junction box.
Please note: The total cable capacitance must be taken into account and must not exceed TBD pF (pico farads).

Q: Are there different mV/V settings available?

A: The sensitivity can be set between 0.5 mV/V and 55 mV/V by changing the SPAN (gain) resistor. Please enquire with our Sales team for more info.

Q: What is the maximum cable length for the load cell connections?

A: Maximum is 2 metres.