Talentum IR3 Flame Detector (Ex d)

FAQs

What does Ex d certification mean and why is it important?

Ex d (flameproof) certification means the detector housing is designed to contain any internal explosion and prevent ignition of the surrounding explosive atmosphere. This is achieved through robust construction with precisely engineered joints and gaps that cool escaping gases below ignition temperature. The 16519-00 model is certified for use in Zone 1 and Zone 2 hazardous areas where explosive gas atmospheres may be present, making it essential for petrochemical facilities, refineries, LNG/LPG production, offshore platforms, and similar high-risk environments.

What is the detection range of the IR3 Ex d flame detector?

The IR3 Ex d flame detector has a Class 1 detection range of 25 meters (82 feet) for a 0.1 m² n-heptane fire or 0.25 m² methylated spirit fire. When set to Class 3 sensitivity (low setting), the range is 12 meters (39 feet) for the same fire sizes. The detector can detect fires at greater distances, but the flame size needs to be proportionally larger. Actual performance depends on the fuel type and flame size present in the installation.

How does the field of view differ from standard housing models?

The Ex d housing has a more restricted field of view compared to standard housing models. While both have a 90° minimum cone field of view, the Ex d model’s flameproof construction affects viewing angles. To meet EN54-10:2002 compliance, viewing angles must be limited to ±20° in all directions for Ex d housing models, compared to ±30° for standard housing models. The relative detection distance drops by up to approximately 60% as the viewing angle increases to ±45° horizontally and ±30° vertically.

Can the detector operate when the window is contaminated?

Yes, one of the key advantages of the IR3 Ex d detector is its ability to detect flames even when the lens is contaminated. It can operate through layers of oil, dust, water vapor, or ice. While there may be some reduction in sensitivity (typically retaining 75-86% of normal response depending on contamination type), the detector maintains functional flame detection capability. However, regular cleaning is still recommended for optimal performance, especially in hazardous area applications where reliability is critical.

What types of hazardous area installations is this detector suitable for?

The IR3 Ex d detector is specifically designed for hazardous area applications including petrochemical offshore and onshore facilities, refineries, LNG/LPG production and storage, chemical plants, aircraft hangars with fuel handling, coal handling facilities, engine rooms in marine and industrial settings, fuel loading racks, nuclear power sites, pharmaceutical production areas with flammable materials, and waste recycling facilities with explosive atmospheres. It’s certified for Zone 1 and Zone 2 locations where explosive gas atmospheres may be present either continuously, frequently, or occasionally.

What are the differences between the standard IR3 and the IR3 Ex d models?

The primary differences are in construction and certification. The IR3 Ex d (16519-00) features a flameproof copper-free aluminium alloy housing (instead of zinc alloy) with red color coding for hazardous area identification. It’s heavier at 2.3 kg versus 1.75 kg and slightly larger (158 x 149 x 134 mm vs 142 x 108 x 79 mm). The Ex d model has ATEX and IECEx certification for Zone 1 and 2 hazardous areas, three cable gland entries instead of two, IP66 rating (vs IP65), and a more restricted field of view (±20° vs ±30°). The detection technology and performance characteristics are otherwise similar.

How is the detector tested in hazardous areas?

The detector can be tested using three methods: (1) Automatic self-test – when terminal 3 is connected to terminal 1, the detector performs an internal optical test every 15 minutes; (2) Manual self-test – applying 24 Vdc to the test terminals triggers an internal test; (3) External testing – using the Talentum TT² test unit from up to 6 meters away. However, the TT² test unit does NOT have Ex approval for hazardous areas, so a work permit is required, or the detector should be removed to a safe area for testing. Live flame testing should only be performed if it is safe to do so and proper hazardous area work permits are in place.

What output configurations are available?

The detector offers flexible output configurations including: two-wire current signaling (4-20 mA or 8-28 mA), four-wire connection with relay outputs, or low current mode (3-9 mA). It features two programmable relays – RL1 for fire alarm (normally open) and RL2 for fault indication (normally closed). The output mode can be configured for either latching (step change) or non-latching (proportional) operation using DIL switches. Relay maximum ratings are 0.75 A, 48 Vdc, 30 W for resistive loads only.

What maintenance is required for Ex d certified detectors?

Regular maintenance is essential for Ex d detectors to maintain certification and reliable operation. This includes: periodic inspection of the housing for any damage that could compromise flameproof integrity, checking cable gland entries are properly sealed and tightened to specified torque, ensuring the optical window is clean, verifying all mounting bolts are secure, and functional testing using approved methods. Any maintenance work must be performed in accordance with local hazardous area regulations and work permit systems. The detector must be de-energized and the area confirmed safe before opening the housing. Only qualified personnel familiar with Ex equipment should perform maintenance.

Can multiple Ex d detectors be connected together?

Yes, multiple Ex d detectors can be connected in parallel using either two-wire or four-wire configurations, provided the installation complies with hazardous area wiring regulations and the certification requirements. In parallel connection, the quiescent current increases with each additional detector, but the alarm current signal remains the same. All cable entries must use certified Ex d cable glands, and wiring must be installed in accordance with the applicable electrical installation standards for hazardous areas (such as IEC 60079-14). The installation must be designed to ensure the system remains intrinsically safe and maintains its flameproof integrity.