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Switch amplifiers for intrinsically safe applications

| By Mary Page Bailey and Gerald Ondrey

The new KFU8-SR-EX* (photo) is a universal powered switch amplifier that can be used in intrinsically safe applications and functional safety installations up to safety integrity level (SIL)2. The new KFU8 device can be supplied with 19 to 30 V d.c. or 90 to 253 V a.c. With this functionality, a single device can be used with various supply voltages. As a result, fewer components need to be kept in stock and in the field technician’s toolbox. The switch amplifiers transmit discrete signals from NAMUR sensors or mechanical contacts in the hazardous area to the safe area. A proximity sensor or switch controls the load on the control side via a changeover relay contact. All modules feature line fault detection. In the event of a fault, the relays de-energize and the fault is indicated by LEDs. — Pepperl+Fuchs, Inc., Twinsburg, Ohio

www.pepperl-fuchs.com