Fox Thermal Instruments FT3 Specifications

Model FT3

®

Thermal Gas
Mass Flow Meter
and Temperature
Transmitter

For Industrial, Environmental,
Energy Monitoring and Process
Control Applications

FM / FMc

ATEX / IECEx

Precision Mass Flow Measurement

An ON

I

CON Brand

399 RESERVATION RD

MARINA, CA 93933

PHONE: [phone]

FAX: [phone]

[e-mail]

www.foxthermal.com

APPROVED!

Smart, Real-Time Mass
Flow Measurement

The Fox Model FT3 measures two
important process variables with a
single instrument, providing isolated

4-20mA and pulse outputs for ow

rate, and a 4-20mA pulse output for
process gas temperature or a second

ow rate output.
Direct mass ow measurement,

exceptional low-ow sensitivity, fast

response, and low maintenance
requirements distinguish the Fox

Model FT3. Virtually immune to

changes in temperature and pressure,

the ow meter delivers repeatable,
accurate mass ow measurement
under varying loads. It’s rugged, no-

moving-parts design is also ideal for
high-vibration industrial environments,

and enhanced EMI immunity makes

it suitable for environments where

electric motors, ignitors or dirty power
may affect instrument performance.

Creative Solutions - Calibration
Validation with Fox Model FT3

Fox Thermal knows that customers

want creative and effective solutions
to some of their common process
problems. Downtime due to
equipment maintenance or calibration

costs money and wastes valuable time.
Calibration Validation of ow meters
in the eld provides assurance of the
functionality of the meter and avoids

the downtime associated with annual
calibrations.

Used in succession, Fox’s CAL-V™

and Zero CAL-CHECK® Tests can

give you the reassurance that your
meter is performing accurately in the
eld without the need to interrupt
ow or send the meter back to the
factory. The tests are quick and easy
to perform at any time and help with

CALIBRATION VALIDATION:
Typical Requirements of Competitive Models

Stop the ow*

Remove meter from pipe*

Disconnect wires from ow meter

Look up data on ow meter’s calibration certicate

Measure electrical characteristics with volt ohm meter

Perform calculations to evaluate ow meter performance

Set process pressure to manufacturer’s calibration pressure

Connect auxiliary test equipment and/or test gases to ow

meter

*When using a packing gland assembly for Zero CAL-CHECK®

NORMAL MEASUREMENT MODE

Sensor Control Signal

SENSOR

SIGNAL

PROCESSING

ELECTRONICS

PowerPro™ Sensor

In normal measurement mode the signal processing electronics control the sensor.

CAL-V™ MODE

Sensor Control Signal

SENSOR

SIGNAL

PROCESSING

ELECTRONICS

PowerPro™ Sensor

In CAL-V™ mode, the microprocessor controls the sensor and determines the resulting electrical
characteristics.

the challenging requirements for

measuring the ow of air and gases.

look-up at any time.

CAL-V™ is an operator-initiated test

MICROPROCESSOR

MASS FLOW

MEASUREMENT

MICROPROCESSOR

CALIBRATION

VALIDATION

Calibration
Validation
PASS/FA IL

that can be performed at any ow rate,

CAL-V™

The CAL-V™ feature is an in-situ
calibration routine that validates the

ow meter’s calibration accuracy by
testing the functionality of the sensor

and its associated signal processing

circuitry. This innovative approach lets
you validate instrument calibration

in the pipe, at process conditions,
with just a push of a button. At the
conclusion of the test, the meter will

display a pass/fail message and the

CAL-V™ data is saved in the meter for

Other Thermal
Flow Meters

FT3 with CAL­V™ & Zero CAL­CHECK®

including zero, and is completed in just
three to four minutes. During the test,

the meter’s microprocessor adjusts

the signal to the sensor elements and
determines the resulting electrical
characteristics. These site-determined
characteristics are compared with the
data that was collected and stored in
the instrument electronics during the

original factory calibration. Matching

data within established tolerances

conrms the meter is measuring
accurately.

Zero CAL-CHECK® Tests

The Zero CAL-CHECK® tests are

used to ensure that the ow meter

still retains its original NIST-traceable

calibration at zero ow. The test can
be performed in one of two ways: In-

situ or Out-of-Pipe.

Required Not Required

In-situ Zero CAL-CHECK®

If zero ow can be established, the

sensor does not need to be removed
and the procedure can be done in

the pipe. If zero ow cannot be
established, a Fox Packing Gland
Assembly is used to remove the sensor

Outputs

24VDC Input Power

85 to 264VAC Optional

Optional Display

and Configuration

The Model FT3 is a full-featured thermal mass ow meter with a conguration panel that comes
equipped with IR buttons for easy conguration of the meter’s settings.

Panel

from the gas stream to simulate a “no

ow” condition.

The test compares sensor

characteristics at zero ow with
customer-set zero ow baseline
and takes less than ve minutes to
complete after zero ow condition has

been established.

Out-of-Pipe Zero CAL-CHECK®

If zero ow cannot be established and

the meter must be removed from the

pipe, this test may be used. The test

will compare the sensor characteristics

at zero ow at ambient temperature

and atmospheric pressure with the

factory characteristics. This test can
also be performed in less than ve

minutes once the set up is complete.

Easy Accuracy Reporting

Both CAL-V™ and the Zero CAL­CHECK® Tests can be initiated from
the front panel, USB connection,
Modbus RTU (RS485) or HART. If

initiated by Fox’s FT3 View™ software

tool, CAL-V™ or Zero CAL-CHECK®

Calibration Validation Certicates can

be produced at the conclusion of the
tests.

This feature is of particular value
in environmental monitoring

applications, such as ares and vents,

where periodic calibration validation
is mandated. These tests help

operators comply with environmental

mandates and eliminates the cost

and inconvenience of annual factory

calibration. It can also be used

to streamline quality assurance,
improve process initiatives, and apply

Precision Mass Flow Measurement

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CON Brand

Rugged, Reliable Performance

The Fox PowerPro™ sensor operates at
a higher power level than competitive

thermal ow sensors resulting in

improved response time and wider
turndown. The PowerPro™ sensor also

provides exceptional accuracy at high

velocities - up to 60,000 SFPM (280
NMPS).

The Model FT3 features a dual­compartment, explosion-proof
electronics enclosure. One
compartment houses the instrument
electronics and the second
compartment is accessible for wiring.
A waterproof seal between the
compartments helps prevent moisture

damage and maintain the integrity of

the instrument electronics.
An optional on-board 2 line x 16

character backlit display is available to
view ow rate, total ow, elapsed time,

process gas temperature and alarms.

The display is also used in conjunction
with the Conguration Panel for eld
conguration of ow meter settings

such as 4-20mA and pulse output

scaling, pipe area, zero ow cutoff,
ow ltering or damping, display
congurations, diagnostics and alarm
limits. Optically activated keys provide
interface to the ow meter without

removing the cover.

The Model FT3 features galvanically-

isolated outputs and enhanced

EMI immunity. A variety of meter
congurations, materials, process

connections and output options offer

improved design exibility, lower cost-

of-ownership and enhanced control
capabilities.

Standard I/O

4-20 mA Flow

4-20 mA Flow or Temperature

Frequency or Alarm

Contact Input

All Outputs are
Galvanically Isolated

Standard Digital Communication

USB (free FT3 View Software)

Optional Digital Communication

HART

Modbus RTU (RS485)

scheduled maintenance procedures.

The Model FT3 is available in both
insertion and inline models. The

insertion meter is easily installed with
a weld-o-let and compression tting.

The inline model is available in ¼-inch
to 6-inch sizes and includes built-in

ow conditioners that eliminate the

need for long, straight pipe runs.

Communications Options

A USB connection is standard on

the Model FT3, and Fox’s free FT3

View™ software provides complete

conguration and remote process

monitoring functions. FT3 View™

lets you adjust meter conguration,

evaluate transmitter alarm conditions,
collect process data, and view

measurements from your PC or

control station. HART and Modbus
RTU (RS485) are available options.
All digital communication is isolated

to provide immunity from electrical

interference.

NIST Traceable Factory Calibration

Fox calibrations are performed

with NIST traceable ow standards.
Whether you require a straightforward

air calibration or a complex mixed
gas calibration, our goal is to achieve

the highest accuracy and the fastest

turnaround time. The Fox Calibration

Lab employs a wide range of gases,

gas mixtures, temperatures, pressures

and line sizes to simulate actual uid

and process conditions. This real­world approach improves installed

accuracy and minimizes measurement
uncertainty.

Built-in ow conditioning improves
measurement accuracy in space-constrained

applications.

Precision Mass Flow Measurement

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Summary Specications

Performance Specs

Flow Accuracy:

Inline meter: ± 1% of reading ± 0.2% of full scale.
Insertion meter: ± 1% of reading ± 0.2% of full scale.
Straight, unobstructed pipe requirement:

Inline: 8 diameters upstream; 4 downstream.
Insertion: 15 diameters upstream; 10 downstream.
Insertion (¼” size): 6” (152mm) upstream & downstream

Flow Repeatability: ± 0.2% of full scale

Flow Response Time: 0.9 seconds (one time constant)

Temperature Accuracy:

± 1.8° F (± 1.0° C) -40 to 250° F (-40 to 121° C); ± 3.6° F (± 2.0° C), 250 to
650° F (121 to 343° C); 60 SFPM minimum.

Calibration:

Factory Calibration to NIST traceable standards
CAL-V™ & Zero CAL-CHECK

®: In situ, user-initiated calibration validation

Operating Specs

Units of Measurement (eld selectable):
SCFM, SCFH, NMPS, NM3/M, NM3/H, NM3/D, NLPS, NLPM, NLPH, MCFD,
MSCFD, SCFD, MMSCFD, MMSCFM, SMPS, SM3/D, SM3/H, SM3/M, LB/S,
LB/M, LB/H, LB/D, KG/S, KG/M, KG/H, SLPM, SFPM, MT/H

Flow Rates for Insertion Flow Meter:

15 to 60,000 SFPM (0.07 to 280 NMPS) - Air at 70°F (20°C) & 1 ATM
Turndown: up to 1000:1; 100:1 typical

Typical Flow Ranges for Insertion Flow Meters

Pipe size SCFM MSCFD NM³/HR

1.5” (40mm) 0 - 840 0 - 1,220 0 - 1,325
2” (50mm) 0 - 1,400 0 - 2,020 0 - 2,210

2.5”(63mm) 0 - 2,000 0 - 2,880 0 - 3,150
3” (80mm) 0 - 3,100 0 - 4,440 0 - 4,890

4” (100mm) 0 - 5,300 0 - 7,650 0 - 8,360
6” (150mm) 0 - 12,000 0 - 17,340 0 - 18,930

8” (200mm) 0 - 20,840 0 - 30,020 0 - 32,870
10” (250mm) 0 -32,800 0 - 47,250 0 - 51,740
12” (300mm) 0 - 46,600 0 - 67,180 0 - 73,500

Flow Ranges for Inline Flow Meters

Pipe size SCFM MSCFD NM³/HR

0.25” 0 - 7.5 0 - 10.8 0 - 11.8

0.5” 0 - 125 0 - 180 0 - 200

0.75” 0 - 220 0 - 320 0 - 350
1” 0 - 360 0 - 520 0 - 570

1.25” 0 - 625 0 - 900 0 - 990

1.5” 0 - 840 0 - 1,220 0 - 1,325
2” 0 - 1,400 0 - 2,020 0 - 2,210

2.5” 0 - 2,000 0 - 2,880 0 - 3,150
3” 0 - 3,100 0 - 4,440 0 - 4,890
4” 0 - 5,300 0 - 7,650 0 - 8,360
6” 0 - 12,000 0 - 17,340 0 - 18,930

Note: Standard conditions of air at 70°F and one atmosphere. Consult factory for other gases and for
ow ranges above those listed. Inline meters above 5,000 SCFM (7,900 NM3/H) air may require third
party Calibration. Contact Fox.

Gas Pressure (maximum):

Insertion: 500 psig (34.5 barg)
316 SS inline with NPT ends: 500 psig (34.5 barg)
316 SS inline with 150 lb. flanges: 230 psig (16 barg)
CS inline with NPT ends: 300 psig (20.1 barg)
CS inline with 150 lb. flanges: 285 psig (19.7 barg)
Retractor: 125 psig (8.6 barg)

High pressure retractor: NPT 600 psig (41.4 barg), ANSI 150lb flange &

ANSI 300lb flange, no valve supplied.

Notes:

• Check with factory for higher pressure options.

• With teflon ferrule option, gas pressure max: 60psig (4.1 barg)

• Pressure ratings stated for temperature of 100°F (38°C).

Relative Humidity: 90% RH maximum; non-condensing

Temperature (see Agency Approvals table to the right):

ST sensor: -40 to 250°F (-40 to 121°C)
HT Sensor: -40 to 650°F (-40 to 343°C)
Enclosure Ambient Temperature:

Without display or AC power supply: -40 to 158°F (-40 to 70°C)
With display and/or AC power supply: -4 to 158°F, (-20 to 70°C)
Remote sensor junction box: -40 to 212°F (-40 to 100˚C)

Input Power:

– – –

24 VDC

100 to 240VAC~(+10%/-15%), 50-60Hz, 0.2 Amps (with AC power option)
Note: Fluctuations of AC and DC power supply are not to exceed ±10% of rating.
Class I Equipment (Electrical Grounding Required for Safety).

Installation (Over-voltage) Category II for transient over-voltages.

Outputs:

Two isolated 4-20mA outputs (output one is for ow rate and output two is
programmable for ow rate or temperature); fault indication per NAMUR NE43.

Isolated pulse output 0 to 100Hz, 5 to 24 volts p/p for ow (the pulse output can

be used as an isolated solid state output for alarms); 10mA max.

Serial Communication:
USB communication port is standard. The free PC-based software tool - FT3

View™ - provides complete conguration, remote process monitoring, and data

logging functions.

Optional serial communication: HART and Modbus RTU (RS485).

4-20mA Loop Verication:
Simulation mode used to align 4-20mA output with the input to customer’s PLC/

DCS.

± 10%), 0.7 Amps (standard DC power)

—

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Physical Specs

Sensor Material: 316 stainless steel standard; Hastelloy C276 optional
Enclosure: NEMA 4X (IP67), Aluminum, dual conduit entries with ¾” NPT or

optional M20 x 1.5mm.

Cabling to remote enclosure: 5-conductor, 18 AWG, twisted, shielded, 100 feet

maximum.

Insertion Flow Meter Installation:

Fox-supplied compression tting connects to customer-supplied 3/4” female

coupling welded to pipe.

Dimensions:

www.foxthermal.com/literature/

Agency Approvals

CE: Approved

EMC Directive; 2014/30/EU

Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control and Lab Use: EN61326-1:2013

Low Voltage Directive (LVD): 2014/35/EU
Product Safety Testing: EN 61010-1: 2010
Pressure Equipment Directive: 2014/68/EU

Weld Testing: EN ISO 15614-1 and EN ISO 9606-1, ASME B31.3

FM/FMc: Approved
Class I, Div. 1, Gps B, C, D; Class II, Div. 1, Gps E, F, G; and Class III, Div. 1; T3C,
Ta = -40° to 70°C; Class I, Zone 1, AEx/Ex d IIB + H2 (T6, T4 or T1*); Ta = -20°C to
70°C; Type 4X, IP67.

ATEX (FM12ATEX0034X): Approved

II 2 G Ex d IIB + H2 (T6, T4 or T1*); Gb Ta = -20°C to 70°C; IP67
II 2 D Ex tb IIIC (T85°C, T135°C or T450°C*) Db Ta = -20°C to 70°C; IP67

IECEx (IECEx FMG 12.0010X): Approved
Ex d IIB + H2 (T6, T4 or T1*) Gb Ta = -20°C to 70°C; IP67
Ex tb IIIC (T85°C, T135°C or T450°C*) Db Ta = -20°C to 70°C; IP67**

Model Code Temp. Code (Gas) Temp. Code (Dust)

Encl. Sensor Mn. Encl. Remote Mn. Encl. Remote

E1 ST T4 N/A 135°C N/A
E2 ST T4 N/A 135°C N/A
E3 ST T6 T4 85°C 135°C**
E4 ST T6 T4 85°C 135°C**
E3 HT T6 T1 85°C 450°C**
E4 HT T6 T1 85°C 450°C**

*

Temperature code ratings for Zones are dependent on external process temperature factors and equipment

enclosure conguration. See table above for specic temperature code ratings.
**The IECEx dust rating does not apply to the Remote Enclosure.

FT3 Brochure Rev N