SMARTSENS: the first range of analysis probes that no longer need conversion

• Analyzing probes with integrated converter technology with 2 wire loop power
• Direct connection of probes to the process control system by 4...20 mA/HART
• Installation in areas with explosive atmospheres (zones 0) and hygienic
• Offline configuration and calibration via PACTware (FDT/DTM) or HART DD

The year 2013 will mark a turning point in the field of analysis: KROHNE presents SMARTSENS, the first line of analysis probes with integrated converter technology with 2-wire loop power supply. The SMARTSENS probes significantly reduce the risk of failure along the chain, ranging from the probe to the process control system and revolutionizing the handling of the analytical probes. The first step consists of the pH, redox and conductivity probes followed by other parameters.

Until now, the analysis probes required an external converter (owner protocol), which translated the probe signals for the control system. When considering the possibility of error according to the requirements of IEC 61508/IEC 61511 in the chain from probe to system, the converter represents the main source of error (in percentage). A wrong installation, wiring or configuration of the converter is often a problem. To remove these risks, KROHNE miniaturized the converter and mounted it in the head of the probe: each SMARTSENS probe can be connected directly to the control system and allows direct communication by 4...20 mA/HART. KROHNE is thus the first supplier to offer a direct connection from the probe to the control system by a standard field bus.

Due to the influences of the product to be measured, temperature, humidity, ambient conditions or pollution, the analytical probes lose precision over time and must be calibrated, cleaned, regenerated and replaced. Today, most field analytical probes use analogue technology and need to be calibrated on-site with the converter, even if they are installed at remote measurement points or difficult access to open air. These conditions are far from ideal for calibration, which can cause incorrect values in the control system. SMARTSENS offers a safe alternative: all SMARTSENS probes are digital and can be (re)calibrated offline in the laboratory under controlled conditions. The probes memorize the calibration data and simply reconnect it on site. For offline calibration, the probe can be connected directly to a PC on which the same PACTware (FDT/DTM) is installed as used in the resource management system, using a USB interface cable for power supply and two-way HART 7 communication.

SMARTSENS target sectors include chemical, pharmaceutical, agri-food, energy, water and wastewater applications. Each SMARTSENS probe is specially designed for its field of application: certifications and certificates range from installation in explosive zone (zone 0) to hygienic zones. With the range of probes, KROHNE also features a wide range of accessories, including loop-powered displays, USB interface cables and mounting sets.