Maintenance, Test & Measurement, Calibration


Small field metrology wells

November 2022 Maintenance, Test & Measurement, Calibration

Fluke’s 914X Series field metrology wells (Fluke 9142, Fluke 9143, Fluke 9144) extend high performance to the industrial process environment by maximising portability, speed and functionality, with little compromise to metrology performance.

The units are packed with functionality and remarkably easy to use. They are lightweight, small, and quick to reach temperature setpoints, yet they are stable, uniform and accurate. These industrial temperature loop calibrators are ideal for performing transmitter loop calibrations, comparison calibrations or simple checks of thermocouple sensors.

With the ‘process’ option, there is no need to carry additional tools into the field. This optional built-in two-channel readout reads resistance, voltage and 4-20 mA current with 24 V loop power. It also has onboard automation and documentation. Combined, the three models cover a wide temperature range from -25°C to 660°C.

High performance for the industrial environment

Designed for the industrial process environment, these field metrology wells weigh less than 8,2 kg and have a small footprint, making them easy to transport. Optimised for speed, they cool to -25°C in 15 minutes and heat to 660°C in the same amount of time.

Field environment conditions are typically unstable, having wide temperature variations. Each field metrology well has built-in gradient-temperature compensation that adjusts control characteristics to ensure stable performance in unstable environments. All specifications are guaranteed over the environmental temperature range of 13°C to 33°C.

Built-in features to address large workloads and common applications

Whether you need to calibrate 4-20 mA transmitters or a simple thermostatic switch, a field metrology well is the right tool for the job. With three models covering the range of -25°C to 660°C, this product family calibrates a wide range of sensor types. The optional process version (models 914X-XP) provides a built-in two-channel thermometer readout that measures PRTs, RTDs, thermocouples, and 4-20 mA transmitters, which includes the 24 V loop supply to power the transmitter.

Each process version accepts an ITS-90 reference PRT. Readout accuracy ranges from ±0,01°C to ±0,07°C, depending on the measured temperature. Reference PRTs for field metrology wells contain individual calibration constants that reside in a memory chip located inside the sensor housing, so sensors may be used interchangeably. The second channel is user-selectable for two-, three- or four-wire RTDs, thermocouples or 4-20 mA transmitters. For comparison calibration, users don’t need to hassle with carrying multiple instruments into the field since these units do it all in a single instrument.

Traditionally, calibrations of temperature transmitters have been performed on the measurement electronics, while the sensor remained uncalibrated. Studies have shown, however, that typically 75% of the error in the transmitter system (transmitter electronics and temperature sensor) is in the sensing element. Thus, it becomes important to calibrate the whole loop – both electronics and sensors.

The process option of the Fluke 9142, Fluke 9143 and Fluke 9144 makes transmitter loop calibrations easy. The transmitter sensor is placed in the well with the reference PRT, and the transmitter electronics are connected to the front panel of the instrument. With 24 V loop power, you can power and measure the transmitter current while sourcing and measuring temperature in the well. This allows for the measurement of as-found and as-left data in one self-contained calibration tool.

All models allow for two types of automated thermostatic switch test procedures: auto or manual setup. Auto setup requires the entry of only the nominal switch temperature. With this entry, it will run a three-cycle calibration procedure and provide final results for the deadband temperature via the display. If you need to customise the ramp rate or run additional cycles, the manual setup allows you to program and run the procedure exactly how you would like. Both methods are fast and easy and make testing temperature switches simple.

Metrology performance for high-accuracy measurements

Unlike traditional dry wells, field metrology wells maximise speed and portability without compromising the six key metrology performance criteria laid out by the EA: accuracy, stability, axial (vertical) uniformity, radial (well-to-well) uniformity, loading and hysteresis. All criteria are important in ensuring accurate measurements in all calibration applications.

The instruments’ displays are calibrated with high-quality traceable and accredited PRTs. Each device (process and non-process versions) comes with an IEC-17025 NVLAP-accredited calibration certificate, which is backed by a robust uncertainty analysis that considers temperature gradients, loading effects and hysteresis. The 9142 and 9143 have a display accuracy of ±0,2°C over their full range, and the 9144 display accuracy ranges from ±0,35°C at 420°C to ±0,5°C at ±660°C. Each calibration is backed with a 4:1 test uncertainty ratio.


Credit(s)



Share this article:
Share via emailShare via LinkedInPrint this page

Further reading:

Real-time spectrum analyser
Vepac Electronics Maintenance, Test & Measurement, Calibration
The PXE series real-time spectrum analyser covers frequencies up to 20 GHz with a 100 MHz analytical bandwidth and ultra-fast sweep speed, supporting spectrum monitoring, interference finding and RF test and measurement functions.

Read more...
Operational efficiencies and safety compliance with preventive maintenance programmes
Maintenance, Test & Measurement, Calibration
Konecranes explains how its Lifecycle Care Preventive Maintenance programme reduces unexpected downtime, improves safety compliance and delivers measurable financial benefits for operators of cranes and lifting equipment across any make or sector.

Read more...
Portable appliance tester
Vepac Electronics Maintenance, Test & Measurement, Calibration
Vepac Electronics’ new portable appliance tester enables precise safety testing of electrical appliances in accordance with DGUV regulation 3 and BetrSichV, with simple three-button operation and battery-powered mobility.

Read more...
Why lubrication fails in mining and what to do about it
Maintenance, Test & Measurement, Calibration
Lubrication Engineers explains the recurring failure points behind mining lubrication problems and how the right product, storage and application practices can improve equipment reliability.

Read more...
When digital twins move from concept to critical tool
IT in Manufacturing System Integration & Control Systems Design Maintenance, Test & Measurement, Calibration
Digital twins are moving out of the lab and onto the mine, the factory floor and the transport network where they predict failures before they happen. Amritesh Anand looks at where they earn their keep, the data and integration work behind them, and the security questions every organisation should ask before switching one on.

Read more...
Why asset level intelligence is now essential for resilient wastewater plants
Schneider Electric South Africa Maintenance, Test & Measurement, Calibration
Sub-Saharan Africa’s wastewater operators face mounting pressure to keep ageing plants running smoothly and meet tougher environmental standards, all while lacking visibility into the health of their medium-voltage (MV) drives and other critical rotating assets. Adding predictive analytics, digital twins and enterprise dashboards enables optimisation across multiple sites, ensuring every drop moves safely and efficiently through the water cycle.

Read more...
How multiple boilers can minimise costly downtime
Maintenance, Test & Measurement, Calibration
Associated Energy Services explains how multi-boiler systems reduce downtime risk for South African manufacturers, covering redundancy planning, fuel source diversification and the strategic management of backup boiler capacity.

Read more...
Field calibration made easy
Instrotech Maintenance, Test & Measurement, Calibration
Instrotech’s locally designed and manufactured Calog calibrator range feature a rugged IP54-rated housing, backlit display with data logging via SD card, and a lithium-ion battery with approximately eight hours of run time.

Read more...
Repair and maintenance services boost system efficiency by 30%
Maintenance, Test & Measurement, Calibration
Following the expansion of its local sales and services network, Rittal South Africa continues to offer comprehensive onsite installation, repair and maintenance services to customers nationally.

Read more...
Keeping lifting equipment safe and securely on track
Maintenance, Test & Measurement, Calibration
In the hustle and bustle of mining production, the focus on the servicing of lifting equipment can unintentionally be sidelined. This situation can easily be avoided with a customised Konecranes Service Agreement that offers a comprehensive and systematic approach to asset management.

Read more...









While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.




© Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd | All Rights Reserved