Warning notices must be observed to ensure personal safety as well as that of others, and to
protect the product and the connected equipment. These warning notices are accompanied
by a clarification of the level of caution to be observed.
Qualified Personnel
This device/system may only be set up and operated in conjunction with this manual.
Qualified personnel are only authorized to install and operate this equipment in accordance
with established safety practices and standards.
Warning: This product can only function properly and safely if it is correctly transported,
stored, installed, set up, operated, and maintained.
Note: Always use product in accordance with specifications.
Copyright Siemens Milltronics Process
Disclaimer of Liability
Instruments Inc. 2003. All Rights Reserved
This document is available in bound version and in
electronic version. We encourage users to
purchase authorized bound manuals, or to view
electronic versions as designed and authored by
Siemens Milltronics Process Instruments Inc.
Siemens Milltronics Process Instruments Inc. will
not be responsible for the contents of partial or
whole reproductions of either bound or electronic
versions.
MILLTRONICS®is a registered trademark of Siemens Milltronics Process Instruments Inc.
Contact SMPI Techni cal Publications at th e following address:
Technical Publications
Siemens Milltronics Process Instruments Inc.
1954 Technology Drive, P.O. Box 4225
Peterborough, Ontario, Canada, K9J 7B1
Email: techpubs@siemens-milltronics.com
While we have verified the contents of
this manual for agreement with the
instrumentation described, variations
remain possible. Thus we cannot
guarantee full agreement. The
contents of this manual are regularly
reviewed and corrections are included
in subsequent editions. We welcome
all suggestions for improvement.
Technical data subject to change.
For the library of SMPI instruction manuals, visit our Web site: www.siemens-milltronics.com
The SITRANS LC 500 User Interface .............................................................................36
The LCD (display) ...................................................................................................................................36
How to access the data: ......................................................................................................................37
Menu Levels 00 to 0F and 10 to 1F ..........................................................................................37
The rotary switch ...................................................................................................................................38
The push-buttons ........................................................................................................................38
Access to a menu item: ............................................................................................................38
Adjusting the value .....................................................................................................................38
Test function ...........................................................................................................................................50
Appendix A: Menu Groups ..............................................................................................54
Menu Items .............................................................................................................................................55
Transmitter: Variable Settings: menu level 0......................................................................................... 55
Transmitter Variable Values: menu level 0............................................................................................. 59
Analog Output Signalling (proportional or 2-state): menu level 0..................................................... 62
Analog Signalling Mode (2-state): menu level 0................................................................................... 64
Digital Output Signalling (solid-state output): menu level 1 ............................................................... 67
Standard Version ...................................................................................................................................83
Standard Version S-Series, Threaded ..................................................................................83
Standard Version S-Series, Threaded ...................................................................................84
Standard Version S-Series, Welded and Machined Flanged Versions .........................85
Standard Version D-Series, Machined Flange ....................................................................86
Interface Version ...................................................................................................................................88
Sanitary Version ....................................................................................................................................89
SITRANS LC 500 is a high performance 2-wire capacitance instrument for continuous level
and interface measurement in extreme or critical conditions. It uses a unique frequencybased measurement system and patented Active-Shield technology to deliver highly
accurate, repeatable results. The measurement is unaffected by moisture, vapors, foam,
temperature and pressure variations, or material build-up around the mounting glands.
SITRANS LC 500 combines a sophisticated, easy-to-adjust transmitter (MSP-2002-2) with a
measurement electrode and process seal selected from a range of options
variety of applications. The advanced electronics and integrated local display provide for
one-step calibration without interrupting the process, and the probe shield design eliminates
the need for frequent recalibration.
SITRANS LC 500 can be used as a level controller, by connecting the mA output and/or the
solid-state switch to a relay, and activating a pump via an auxiliary power circuit.
The SITRANS LC 500 is equipped with:
•Smart 2-wire transmitter
•Remote adjustable commissioning / control capabilities via HART
•Analog (2-wire) 4 to 20mA / 20 to 4 mA output
•Solid-state and Current detection (4 or 20 mA / 20 or 4 mA, two-state
functionality)
•Adjustable hystereses on/off for solid-state output and for current signal
•Damping functionality
•Signal current (measurement/detection) according to NAMUR NE 43
•Integrated local display for commissioning and services activities
•Full range of local/remote diagnostic facilities
•Pre-detection of trip point for high safety requirements
•Polarity-insensitive current loop
•Integrated zener safety barrier for Intrinsically Safe applications
1
, to suit a wide
2
Introduction
Applications
•General Purpose, Dust Ignition Proof, Explosion Proof, and Intrinsically Safe
•A wide range of applications in high pressure and temperature, chemically
aggressive, and other extreme measurement/detection environments
•Liquids, Solids, Quality, and Interface measurement
•Viscous non-conducting and conducting liquids
1.
Customized probe configurations can also be provided.
2.
HART® is a registered trademark of the HART Communications Foundation,
Austin, Texas, USA.
Special attention must be paid to warnings and notes highlighted from the rest of the text
by grey boxes.
WARNING: relates to a caution symbol on the product, and means
Introduction
Safety marking symbols
that failure to observe the necessary precautions can result in
death, serious injury, and/or considerable material damage.
WARNING: means that failure to observe the necessary
precautions can result in death, serious injury, and/or considerable
material damage.
CAUTION: means that failure to observe the necessary precautions can
result in considerable material damage.
Note: means important information about the product or that part of the operating
manual.
Alternating Current
Direct Current
Earth (ground) Terminal
Protective Conductor Terminal
Frame or Chassis Terminal
Cathodic protection resulting in a potential difference: for example,
between the ground on the instrument and the potential of the vessel
or tank
The Manual
Notes:
•Please follow the installation and operating procedures for a quick, trouble-free
installation and to ensure the maximum accuracy and reliability of your SITRANS LC 500.
•This manual applies to the SITRANS LC 500 only.
This manual will help you set up your SITRANS LC 500 for optimum performance. We
always welcome suggestions and comments about manual content, design, and
accessibility.
Please direct your comments to techpubs@siemens-milltronics.com
library of Siemens Milltronics manuals, go to www.siemens-milltronics.com
D/A Digital to Analog
DACDigital Analog Converter
DCSDistributed Control Systemcontrol room apparatus
ESDElectrostatic Discharge
ExExplosion Proofsafety approval
ExdFlame Proofsafety approval
FVFull Vacuum
HART
ISIntrinsically Safesafety approval
LRVLower Range Valuevalue for 0 %4 mA
LSLLower Sensor Limit
µFmicro Farads10
µsmicro Seconds10
PEDPressure Equipment Directivesafety approval
pFpico Farads10
ppmparts per million
PVPrimary Variablemeasured value
Stilling Well
SVSecondary Variableequivalent value
SVLRV
SVURV
TVTransmitter Variable
URVUpper Range Valuevalue for 100%20 mA
Capacitance1 measurement operates by forming a variable capacitor resulting from the
installation of a vertical measurement electrode in a vessel or silo. The tank wall usually
forms the reference electrode of the capacitor. Whatever material is sandwiched
between the two electrodes forms the dielectric. This will be composed of the vessel
contents (air, vapor, liquid, solid, or a combination) and, if the measurement electrode is
insulated, the insulating layer (PFA, for example). The dielectric gives a capacitance value
that is proportional to level.
Capacitance is affected by the surface area of the electrodes, the separation distance
between the electrodes, and the dielectric constant of the vessel contents. The dielectric
constant is the measure of a material’s ability to store energy. The relative dielectric
constant of air (vacuum) is 1: all other materials have a higher value.
Note: To preserve linearity of the measurement, both electrodes must be parallel.
(When the vessel contents are conductive, the measurement electrode is insulated
and the interface between the insulating layer and the contents acts as a parallel
reference electrode independent of the tank wall.)
The SITRANS LC 500 variable frequency oscillator
The SITRANS LC 500 probe is equipped with a variable frequency oscillator which
responds to the capacitance: a change in capacitance is registered as a change in
frequency. The relationship between capacitance and frequency is inverse, resulting in
Operation & Application
high resolution and accuracy. The variable frequency maintains a constant relationship to
the reading.
Capacitance measurement in a cylindrical metal tank
In a cylindrical tank, it is possible to determine the initial capacitance in air by factoring in
the length of the probe, diameter of the probe, diameter of the tank, and the relative
dielectric constant of air.
1.
For definitions relating to capacitance, see the glossary, page 109.
L = active measurement length
D = diameter of tank
d = probe diameter.
(For detailed application examples, see page 91.)
The transmitter measures the capacitance of the measurement electrode relative to the
tank wall (reference electrode) and transforms it to a 4-20 mA signal. Any material that
covers the probe will cause an increase in capacitance relative to an uncovered probe
surrounded by air. As the product level rises the capacitance will increase.
Non-conductive or conductive contents
In practice, the SITRANS LC 500 probe is usually insulated. If the vessel contents are nonconductive, the dielectric is composed of the vessel contents and the insulation, and the
separation distance is from the probe to the tank wall. The tank wall is the reference
electrode, and it must be connected to the ground point on the instrument.
Note: For simplicity, the probe is shown centrally mounted. If it is to be mounted off-
centre, take care to ensure the electrode remains parallel to the tank wall.
If the vessel contents are conductive, the electrode must be insulated. In this case the
dielectric is the insulation layer and the interface between the conductive contents and
the insulating sleeve acts as the reference electrode. This reduces the separation
distance for the filled portion of the tank to the thickness of the insulation. It also creates
a linear reference electrode independent of the tank wall.
1.
This formula applies to a centrally mounted probe: for a probe mounted off-centre, the
formula must be adjusted.
•a reference electrode parallel to the measurement electrode is required
•the reference electrode must be grounded to the instrument
•a stilling well can form the reference electrode.
Where the vessel contents are conductive:
•the interface between the contents and the electrode insulation acts as the
reference electrode
•a connection from the vessel contents to the instrument ground is required
•a stilling well can provide a means of connecting the contents to the instrument
ground.
The stilling well
The stilling well is a metal tube concentric with the electrode, with vent openings to
facilitate level equalization. Its diameter is somewhat larger than that of the electrode,
depending on the application. The stilling well can either be integral to the SITRANS LC 500,
or it may be part of the tank
1
.
The SITRANS LC 500 electrode
The SITRANS LC 500 electrode, comprising a measurement section and an active shield
section, is the primary sensor of the system. It supplies the electrical capacitance value
of the measurement section relative to the environment (tank wall or stilling well).
The SITRANS LC 500 patented Active-Shield Technology electrically isolates the
measurement section and prevents any non-measurement capacitance from interfering
with the measurement. (Capacitance changes could result from uncontrolled variations
occurring in the connection cable, process connection, and non-active parts of the
Operation & Application
probe). This results in a better ratio of initial capacitance to total capacitance, resulting in
higher accuracy.
1.
The tank wall, or the stilling well if it is part of the tank, must be grounded.
The measurement is further protected from interference by a buffer, which applies the
frequency signal from the measurement section to the active shield section. This effectively
eliminates any electrical potential difference between the shield and the measurement
section and prevents additional changes in capacitance occurring.
SITRANS
LC 500
active shield
active
measurement
empty
tank
full
tank
100%
section
probe seal
buffer
(inactive)
frequency (f)
0%
≈K
capacitance (C)
The relative lengths of the measurement section and active shield section can be
specified to suit a particular application. If the measured range will be short relative to
the total length of the electrode, specify a short measurement section. This increases the
achievable resolution of the measurement, since any change in level will be greater
relative to the length of the measurement section.
The entire SITRANS LC 500 transmitter is potted in epoxy resin as part of the intrinsic
safety protection. The potting also protects the electronics against mechanical vibration
and moisture influences.
The transmitter is connected to the electrode by a mini coaxial cable, and grounded to a
connection point inside the enclosure. The external ground lug on the enclosure provides
a means of connecting the instrument system ground to a grounded tank or stilling well
(For more detailed information on grounding requirements, please see Grounding
Examples, page 28.)
–12
The measuring range of the SITRANS LC 500 is 3300 pF (1.0 pF ≅ 10
F).
Note: For safety purposes, and to ensure reliable measurement signals, the external
ground lug provided on the SITRANS LC 500 enclosure must be firmly connected by an
adequate cable to the grounded vessel or stilling well
1
.
Application: SITRANS LC 500
The SITRANS LC 500 provides an analog and a solid-state output. The analog output can
be either a continuous signal proportional to the reading, or in 2-state mode, a mA signal
operating according to NAMUR recommendations for fault signalling
0% (LRV) and 100% (URV) can be set anywhere within the measurement range.
1.The loop current provides either:
a. an analog signal:
• a reading proportional to level (PV) under normal conditions
• an out-of-limits display, ‘ooL’, alternating with PV, in fault conditions (if the
process level exceeds the limit settings [USL] or [LSL])
or:
2
.
1
.
Operation & Application
b. in 2-state mode, provides a mA output:
• 4 mA or 20 mA output for 0% and 100%, under normal conditions
• a 3.6 or 22 mA output in fault conditions (when 2-state fault signalling
[menu 08] is enabled, if the process level exceeds the limit settings [USL or
LSL])
2.The solid-state output can be set to ‘contact open’ or ‘contact closed’, relative to a
covered probe: it can be wired to an external relay and used to activate an external
alarm or a pump via an auxiliary power circuit. It can be activated under normal
conditions by the threshold settings, or Fault signalling can be enabled at menu 18.
3.Upper Threshold Setting and Lower Threshold Setting activate and deactivate the
2-state output, and/or the solid-state output: the settings can be modified to adjust
the hysteresis (the window within which the probe is considered ‘covered’).
4.The speed of response to activation and deactivation of the solid-state and/or
2-state output can be modified by Upper and/or Lower Threshold delays.
5.The PV reading can be stabilized if necessary by applying Damping.
6.Overfill or underfill protection can be set in the absence of those conditions by
applying the Delta Range Setting.
7.Analog Fault Signalling (menu 08) and Digital Fault Signalling (menu 18) take
precedence over the threshold settings (menus 07 and 17).
Level Measurement
The continuous 4-20 or 20-4 mA signal is proportional to the surface level of the product,
with an accuracy of 0.1% of the actual measurement (for example, 1mm/m).
Typically, Lower Range Value (LRV - 0%) is set to 4 mA and Upper Range Value (URV 100%) is set to 20 mA: but the reverse is possible if required. The measurement takes
place anywhere within that range. The LCD displays the value as mA, or pF, or percent,
depending on the setting for the transmitter variable (TV). If you are using HART, you have
the option to define the units.
The capacitance of the electrode system is dependent on the dielectric constant of the
product surrounding the probe. By comparing the capacitances resulting from different
products with different dielectric constants, it is possible to determine which product is
surrounding the probe.
For miscible products:
Contamination of one product by another can be measured:
100% product A4 mA
100% product B20 mA
Values in between 4 and 20 mA represent the ratio of the two products.
For immiscible products:
The interface between two products can be detected by the change in capacitance from
one to the other. (See example,
For Vessels filled with Oil
on page 91.)
Switch action
2-state Switch
The mA output can be used as a 2-state switch set to either 4 or 20 mA. It can be set to go
to 4 mA if the probe is covered and 20 mA if the probe is uncovered, or the reverse.
Solid-state Switch
The solid-state output can be set to ‘contact open’ or ‘contact closed’ with a covered
probe.
Adjustable hysteresis and time delay
Operation & Application
The adjustable hysteresis and time delay settings allow you to adjust the switch action for
applications with a lot of surface movement.
Examples:
With a moving surface that fluctuates between 79% and 80%, if the hysteresis is set
so that 80 is on and 79 is off, the alarm will constantly alternate between on and off.
Either set a time delay, or adjust the hysteresis:
•Set the time delay to 10 seconds (for example): the alarm will be on only after
the surface has been at 80% for at least 10 seconds.
•Reset the hysteresis for 70 (for example): the unit will ignore small surface
The SITRANS LC 500 has three fault signalling options:
•via the loop-current
•via HART
•via the solid-state output or solid-state relay.
Via the loop current
When using the mA signal, the SITRANS LC 500 operates according to NAMUR standards1
for fault signalling. The fault/failure signal can be triggered by a failure in the measuring
system, such as:
•a checksum error
•a loss of signal caused by a defect in the module
•a short circuit in the sensor
•a process failure if the level exceeds the limit settings and if the unit is
programmed to detect this
You can set the Upper and Lower Sensor Limits (menus 0B and 0C) outside the Upper and
Lower Range Value settings. In this case, if the process value is outside its nominal range
(the span between LRV and URV), but still not at a fault/failure level, the continuous mA
output will saturate to 3.8 mA or 20.5 mA. If the process value is outside the Upper or
Lower Sensor Limits, this will be registered as a fault/failure.
Depending on the setting chosen for 2-state Fault Signalling (menu 08), the signal will go to
either 3.6 mA (F: Lo) or to 22 mA (F:Hi). If you do not use communications to receive status
information, we recommend enabling analog fault signalling (menu 08), in order to be
warned if a fault or failure occurs. (This feature is disabled by default.)
Operation & Application
Via HART
See page 75 for
by a response code. It is then up to the Host to decide what to do in the case of a fault
situation. The Host may decide to issue Command 48, which returns more detailed
information.
HART Response Code Information
. Each HART message is accompanied
Via the solid-state output
The solid-state switch can be wired up to an external relay, to provide a second level of
protection. It can then be used to activate a failure alarm, or a level switch. (See page 93
for details of an application using SITRANS LC 500 as a level indicator, with the two-state
output connected to a relay that activates a pump.)
The probe (electrode) comprises a measurement section and an active shield section.
This electrode connects to the capacitance detector portion of the two-wire loop
powered electronic transmitter. The transmitter module is mounted in a powder-coated
aluminum enclosure which provides reliable operation in environments with dust,
moisture, and high-frequency interference.
SITRANS LC 500 Electrode (Probe) Char acteristics
Apply to all general connection configurations:
•The standard SITRANS LC 500 insulated electrode is designed for use in both
conducting and non-conducting liquid applications.
•Most electrodes consist of an active shield portion and a measurement portion,
which combine to form the complete electrode. (This is not the case for cable
electrodes or electrodes with ceramic/enamel insulation.)
•The sum of the active shield length and the measurement length is the total
insertion length.
•The active shield design provides continuous immunity from changes in conditions
at the top of the vessel where levels of vapors, dust, and condensation may be
constantly changing.
•The design of the active shield isolates the starting capacitance of the electrode
from the effects of changes in capacitance due to temperature and pressure
fluctuations that could cause small changes in the seal geometry.
•The carefully-controlled diameter of the electrodes and insulation produces a linear
output over a wide range of capacitance values (1 pF to 3300 pF).
•The end seal is formed as an integral part of the electrode insulation, giving smooth
and uniform characteristics (tested to 55 kV).
SITRANS LC 500 electrodes come in a variety of formats to provide the necessary
characteristics for correct mounting, chemical compatibility, temperature and pressure
requirements, and dielectric constant of the medium. The main body of the manual
discusses the standard configuration. Other options, with details, are shown in
SITRANS LC 500, alternate versions and application details
Process Connections
The standard threaded process connection (S-Series) with PFA insulated electrode,
including the active shield, provides good results in all measurement situations within the
temperature, pressure, and corrosive capabilities of the materials and seals. This remains
true over a wide range of dielectric constants in both non-conducting and conducting
materials.
Any standard process connection is available with the SITRANS LC 500, and special
versions can be fabricated to match the mounting and application requirements. A wide
range of threaded and flanged fittings is available. (Contact your local Siemens
Milltronics representative for details, or check our website at:
www.siemens-milltronics.com.)
Seal Types
The basic internal seal for the SITRANS LC 500 has a conical-shaped, preloaded
pressure/leak resistant construction. Up to three levels of seal protection are
implemented depending on the integrity requirements of the application. A single or
double cone internal seal forms one or two barriers against leaking, and a third flange
face gasket is also available in the D and DD seal construction. The flange face seal also
provides a design with no metal wetted parts if required.
, page 83.
Appendix E:
Process Connection and Seal Configur ation of SITRANS LC 500
Process ConnectionSeal TypeSeal Description
ThreadedSSingle Cone
Welded FlangeSSingle Cone
SSingle Cone
DSingle Cone + Teflon flange seal
Solid Machined Flange
DD
SDDouble Cone (used for stilling well applications)
Double Cone + Teflon flange seal. (Consult your
local Siemens Milltronics representative.)
Probe Configuration
Pressure and Temperature Considerations
The maximum temperature and pressure of operation for the standard SITRANS LC 500
level probe is 200°C (392°F) and 200 bar (2900 psi). Please consult the pressure curve on
page 18 for qualifications that must be applied to these maximums.
Enamel probes are recommended when the process temperature exceeds 200 °C, and/or
in combination with very high pressure.
Note: Consult your Siemens Milltronics representative if the material to be
measured may be incompatible with the SITRANS LC 500 materials of
construction.
Temperature Versus Pressure Curve for SITRANS LC 500 PFA-insulated
Level Probe
As the temperature approaches 75°C (167°F), the maximum pressure must be derated1.
When the temperature reaches 200°C (392°F), the maximum pressure is limited to 50 bar
(725 psi). This curve is typical for water only. For other, more aggressive chemicals the
derating curve will be more severe.
–1bar (–
14.6 ps i)
pressure
o
0
o
(32
–100
(–148
o
o
C
F)
200 bar (2920 psi)
150 bar (2190 psi)
100 bar (1460 psi)
70 bar (1022 psi)
50 bar (725 psi)
o
–50
C
o
F)
(–58
consult factory when pressure or
temperatures fall within this area
o
70
C
o
F)
(158
o
50
C
F)
(122
100 oC
C
o
o
F)
(212
o
150
C
o
F)
F)
(302
temperature
o
200
C
o
F)
(392
Reference Product: Water
Notes:
•For high temperature and pressure ratings for the Enamel probe, please
contact your Siemens Milltronics representative.
Probe Configuration
•For FM / CSA Explosion Proof applications: if the process temperature
exceeds 135
1.
Decreased within the limits specified in the diagram (maximum 200 bar).
o
C (275 oF), select process seal type SD,DD,HP or HT.
• Installation shall only be performed by qualified personnel and in accordance with
local governing regulations.
• This product is susceptible to electrostatic discharge. Follow proper grounding
procedures.
WARNINGS:
• Disconnect the device before any welding is carried out in the vicinity
of the instrument.
• Provide protection when the solid-state switch is activating an
external relay to prevent possible switch/relay damage resulting from
inductive spikes generated by the relay coil. (See
state switch
on page 21 for details.)
Handling Electrodes
WARNINGS:
• Do not scratch or gouge the PFA electrode insulation since this could
reduce the integrity of the insulation and the useful life of the
electrode.
• Be careful with an enamel-insulated electrode
• Do not damage the insulation jacket on the electrode during shipping,
packing, and installation
proper performance.
• (ATEX 100): Precautions MUST be taken to avoid ignition due to
hazardous electrostatic discharges:
a. Where an isolated probe is used in gas, vapor, or a non-
conductive liquid that is potentially explosive, requiring
apparatus group IIC equipment.
b. Where the probe is used in a potentially explosive dusty
atmosphere.
2
. Any damage to the electrode can prevent
Protection for solid-
1
.
1.
Normally the enamel insulation is protected by a stilling well, which is part of
the design.
2.
Most electrodes use PFA insulation, a very dense and reliable type of Teflon®
that prevents leakage and corrosion of the metal electrode and acts as an
insulator when conductive materials are being measured.
The SITRANS LC 500 is easily installed: simply mount the instrument on the process
connection of the vessel.
Notes:
• The transmitter is specified for use at temperatures ranging from –40 °C to
85 °C (–40
standard option is available with a thermal isolator.
• Before mounting the SITRANS LC 500, check to ensure the threads are
matching to avoid damaging them.
Protection for solid-state switch
•for dc circuits: connect protection diodes in the correct polarity across the relay coil
•for ac circuits: connect a Voltage Dependent Resistor (VDR) or other ac compatible
component (such as zeners and protection diodes in combination) in the correct
polarity across the relay coil
Process Cautions
AUTION: Consider material surface
onfiguration when installing unit.
o
F to 185 oF): if your process temperature is outside this range, a
CAUTIONS:
• With a centrally mounted cable version,
take care that the tensile load does not
exceed probe or vessel rating
• With a cable version mounted close to
the tank wall, take care that the product
does not push the cable against the tank
wall: a spring can be used as a retainer.
•The transmitter is powered by the current loop and needs at least 9.5-13 Volt on
the terminals: 9.5 V at 22 mA or 12 V at 3.6 mA.
•The maximum supply is 33 Volt. If the voltage is higher the device will shut down.
•The loop-circuit will withstand voltages up to 250 Vac/Vdc without any damage.
The SITRANS LC 500 uses a switched power supply circuit, which makes the most
efficient use of the available power present on the terminals. If the signal current is low,
(4mA), the terminal voltage will be high, and if the signal current is high, (20 mA), the
terminal voltage may be low, due to all the resistive elements in the loop, such as the
barrier and sense resistor.
Voltage drop versus mA for current transmitter operation
voltage drop over 250 ohm
measuring resistance
voltage drop over 280 ohm in
barrier
V-s uppl y
voltage drop over blocking
diode in barrier
margin or voltage drop over
instrument cable
operation voltage,
transmitter
Interconnection
mA
Examples:
•With a 250 Ohm sensing resistor, no barrier and negligible cable resistance, the
overall supply voltage should be at least 15.0 V.
•With a 250 Ohm sensing resistor, a barrier of 280 Ohm, and 20 Ohm cable
resistance (500 m), the total resistance is 550 Ohm, so the overall supply voltage
should be at least 20.5 Volts.
•For a multi-drop application, where the measuring supply is fixed to 4 mA, the
voltage on the terminals of the SITRANS LC 500 should be at least 12 Volts.
The loop circuit is completely isolated from the measurement circuit. It is designed so that
the internal capacitance and inductance on the terminals are isolated and do not factor
in safety calculations.
•To maintain reliable transfer of the HART modem signals, the RC1 time constant of
the connections should be less than 65 µSec.
•Cable capacitance must also be considered when selecting cable for intrinsically
safe installations.
Interconnection
•For output signals (from the SITRANS LC 500), only the cable and barrier
resistance are relevant. For input signals the measurement resistance is also
relevant.
•Use twisted pair cable, screened as a pair.
1.
RC = Resistance * Capacitance
2.
Or, if you use a common screen over a cable containing multiple twisted pairs,
do not use other pairs for signals that could interfere with HART signals.
Selecting the correct instrumentation cable
•you need to know the cable length, the barrier type (if applicable), and the
measurement resistance
•select a cable that will give you a capacitance time constant of less than 65 µSec
1.Calculate the capacitance for a time constant of 65 µSec, using the following
formula:
tRC×=
R
is the sum of the load resistor and cable resistance.
C
is the sum of the cable capacitance and the capacitances of the connected
device/devices.
2.Determine the cable length allowed, by subtracting the capacitance value of the
device (or devices) on the loop from the total capacitance, and using the maximum
allowable limit of 100 pF per meter (or 1 nF per 10 meters).
Example
1.Calculate the cable capacitance which will give a time constant of 65 µSec:
A twisted pair cable with a conductor cross-section of 1 mm
a copper resistance of 73.6 Ohm/km and a capacitance of 100 pF/m (or 1 nF/10m).
For a standard 28 V 280 Ohm barrier and a 250 Ohm measuring resistance, with a
100 meter cable: