Best 4-20mA Isolator for Industrial Flow Meters and Scales

Question:

Do you have a preferred 4-20mA isolator for your industrial needs? I have multiple flow meters and scales sending out 4-wire 4-20mA signals that I want to isolate before they reach my analog input card. Is isolation truly necessary for optimal performance? My specific card is a 5069 IF8.

Top Replies

I was recently introduced to the PR Electronics Universal Transmitter by one of my clients. This cost-effective device is versatile, accommodating various inputs and offering multiple outputs. It can also be personalized to suit different ranges. Additionally, there is an option with a relay output, which can be configured to activate at a specific setpoint.

Looking for rugged isolators that are SIL rated? Check out Moore Industries – a top choice for high-quality, durable isolator products. Explore their selection at www.miinet.com to find the right isolator for your needs.

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Ken Moore mentioned using isolators from Moore Industries, known for their durability and SIL rating. I also utilized Moore Industries isolators to convert 0-1mA signals to 4-20mA for a PLC, allowing me to easily interface with an induction heater. These isolators have been operational without any issues since 2016. Find out more about these reliable isolators at Moore Industries' website.

Dale87 inquired about the best 4-20mA isolator for multiple flow meters and scales with 4-wire connections. Isolating the signals before reaching the non-isolated Analog input card, such as the 5069 IF8, is crucial for optimal performance. While isolation may not be mandatory if all instruments are already isolated, it is still recommended for smoother operation and protection against potential interference.

Isolation is indeed necessary for optimal performance as it provides protection against surges, electrical noise and ground loops, improves signal quality, and provides safety in case of a fault. Personally, I've had great success with isolators from Phoenix Contact - they handle a wide range of input/output configurations and provide reliable isolation. However, what's best really depends on the specifics of your setup and the environmental factors in your facility. Always remember to account for these aspects when choosing an isolator.

From my personal experience, isolation becomes extremely important when dealing with any kind of signal transmission in an industrial environment. Without it, you can run into problems like ground loops, which result into inaccurate readings. Some of my favorite 4-20mA isolators are from Pepperl+Fuchs and Phoenix Contact. However, double check the compatibility with your 5069 IF8 input card. It’s always best to go with something that's not just compatible, but also has excellent reviews in terms of form, function, and reliability.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

FAQ: 1. What are some recommended 4-20mA isolators for industrial flow meters and scales?

Answer: - Some popular 4-20mA isolator brands for industrial applications include Acromag, Moore Industries, and Weidmuller. It's important to choose isolators with features like high accuracy, wide temperature range, and robust construction.

FAQ: 2. Is isolating 4-20mA signals necessary for optimal performance of industrial flow meters and scales?

Answer: - Yes, isolating 4-20mA signals is essential for optimal performance in industrial settings. Isolation helps prevent ground loops, electrical interference, and voltage spikes that can affect the accuracy and reliability of the measurements.

FAQ: 3. Can you recommend specific 4-20mA isolators compatible with the 5069 IF8 analog input card?

Answer: - When selecting isolators for use with the 5069 IF8 card, ensure compatibility with the card's specifications such as input voltage range, signal types supported, and mounting options. Some isolator models are designed specifically to work seamlessly with Rockwell Automation's 5069 series cards.

FAQ: 4. How many flow meters and scales can be connected to a single 4-20mA isolator?

Answer: - The number of devices that can be connected to a single 4-20mA isolator depends on its input and output capabilities. It's important to check the isolator's specifications for details on the number of channels

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