Sensors used in potentially explosive environments need to comply with stringent safety regulations. The range of Leuze opto-electronic sensors, available in South Africa exclusively from Countapulse Controls, has been developed with minimum risk in mind.

Extensive investment in research and development by Germany-based Leuze has resulted in a range of opto-electronic sensors capable of reliable detection while simultaneously meeting intrinsically safe specifications.

The Leuze 92 Ex Series intrinsically safe sensors with NAMUR are suitable for use in Zones 1 (gases and vapours) and 21 (dust). These devices are available as diffuse reflection light scanners, retro-reflective photoelectric sensors or throughbeam photoelectric sensors and are capable of reliably detecting objects at distances of between 300 mm and 12 metres.

Leuze intrinsically safe sensors transmit switching signals to the VS 403 isolated switching amplifier via the NAMUR interface. The temperature class for explosive gas areas is T6 (85°C) and for explosive dust areas it is 80°C. 

The compact Leuze 55 Series stainless steel sensors are ideal for areas where explosive risk is minimal, such as Zones 2 (gases and vapours) and 22 (dust). These sensors are developed for all category 3G and 3D applications and with dimensions of only 14 mm wide by 36 mm high and 25 mm long, they are able to fit into constrained spaces. The stainless steel sensors and their protective housings are designed for resistance to corrosion and chemicals, making them suitable for use in demanding operating conditions.

Countapulse Controls currently supplies both the retro-reflective photoelectric sensors and scanners with background suppression. The temperature class for explosive gas areas is T4 (135°C) and for explosive dust areas it is 70°C.

The high performance Leuze 46B Series sensors, with Zones 2 and 22 certification, are used for reliable detection in category 3G and 3D applications. Providing accurate operation even where heavy soiling is present, the sensors are available in a number of variants including throughbeam photoelectric sensor, retro-reflective photoelectric sensor or scanner with background suppression. The temperature class for explosive gas areas is T4; for explosive dust areas it is 90°C.

Leuze 96 long range sensors for Zones 2 and 22 were specially designed for applications that require large ranges of 0.85 to 120 metres in categories 3G and 3D. The product spectrum encompasses all operating principles, including a category 2 protective photoelectric sensor (testing). The temperature class for explosive gas areas is T4 and for explosive dust areas it is 70°C.

OPTO-ELECTRONIC SENSORS FOR HAZARDOUS AREAS PIC 01 : Leuze 92 Series sensors are capable of reliable detection while meeting intrinsically safe specifications.