Video: Self-calibrating networked thermometers offer Ex safety rating

Endress+Hauser has introduced generation 2.0 of its iTHERM TrustSens TM371/TH372, still the world’s only self-calibrating RTD thermometer for hygienic operations.

Gen 2.0 of the temperature recording device includes new smart and safe features for added convenience and expanded roles in the life sciences and food-and-beverage sectors in particular. These include a wider operating temperature range (-40° to 190°C), explosion protection, optional Bluetooth/WirelessHeart connectivity and potential integration with Netilion, the company’s cloud-based IIoT ecosystem.

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The added explosion protection and expanded temperature range (up to 160°C as standard and 190°C as an option) creates potential new applications for iTHERM, including monitoring of edible oils and UHT milk or baking and frying processes. Certification for Ex-ia/IS makes it suitable for dust and gas applications like storage of grains, flour, or pet food or for monitoring production of milk powder and alcohol or for sterile filling or ethylene oxide sterilization.

Adding Bluetooth or Wireless/HART connectivity can provide ready access to calibration data and device configuration parameters in the field, without the need to unplug or dismount the device. It means faster access to the device diagnostic and process data generated by the device’s Heartbeat Technology for optimizing processes and overall plant performance, the company says.

Considering that some production facilities can have hundreds of thermometers, it adds, often in hard-to-reach places, the time and cost benefits of being able to access this data on a smartphone or tablet from a safe distance are obvious. With Netilion integration, such monitoring can be done centrally, even remotely, 24/7.

The iTHERM TrustSens TM372 (imperial style) and its metric equivalent, TM371, enables continuous, traceable monitoring thanks to their fully automated inline self-calibration function without process interruption.

It is said to be suitable for users who require absolute compliance with FDA and/or GMP regulations.