The new Advanced Modular Calibration System from GE Sensing & Inspection Technologies is a hand-held test and calibration system that combines an advanced, multi-function calibrator with world class pressure measurement and generation capability. Its modular concept allows its discrete components to be used as stand-alone instruments, allowing significant flexibility both in cost of ownership and in functionality.
The Advanced Modular Calibration System uses three basic components to perform duties formerly requiring a wide range of different instruments. At its core is its advanced, electrical, frequency and temperature calibrator. This compact and robust multi-function unit can measure and source mA, mV, V, Ohms, frequency and a variety of RTDs and thermocouples. Pressure measurement is provided by interchangeable pressure modules that attach to the calibrator via a carrier. The calibrator and the pressure modules can also attach to a pressure generation station to form a fully integrated, high performance pressure calibrator. Three pressure stations are available, enabling the generation of pneumatic pressure from 95 percent vacuum to 20 bar or up to 100 bar while hydraulic pressure capability is zero to 1,000 bar.
The system’s rugged and weatherproof multi-function DPI 620 calibrator has been designed with performance, ease of use and versatility in mind. It is two to three times smaller, weighs less than a third of its nearest competitor and yet has one of the largest and brightest displays. Its video quality color touch screen shows only those buttons necessary for the immediate, selected task. The buttons are big enough to permit operation by a gloved hand. The display itself can be configured to show up to six reading windows, which also act as active keys and, when pressed, expand to show more detailed information or to provide advance functions. Color-coding of displays is incorporated to facilitate fast sentencing.
The calibrator can be simply expanded by the addition of further hardware and software modules, including an Intecal field calibration and documentation manager, a wireless module and a 300-Vac measurement probe. It is fitted with a HART configurator as standard to provide digital communication with HART devices for interrogation, configuration and calibration. The DPI 620 is also available in a Windows CE-driven version, providing all the computing power of a conventional hand-held PC or PDA. The DPI 620CE provides standard Windows applications and file management and allows the user to view PDF files and jpeg images, such as user manuals, data sheets and installation drawings, while in the field or on the plant.
The pressure modules represent the latest in digital output sensor technology, incorporating a number of key innovations to allow pressure re-ranging of compatible equipment. Digital characterization and a simple screw fit allow interchangeability in a matter of seconds with no need for tools, set-up or calibration. The modules can be located in the module carrier that can then be connected to the multi-function calibrator, to form a compact, hand-held test tool. Alternatively, the pressure modules can be located in the relevant pressure generation station to which the DPI 620 also locks in place to create a self contained pressure calibrator. Each of the pressure generation stations can also act in a stand-alone capacity to replace hand pumps and comparators. They are all simple to operate by hand and each represents a significant step forward in pressure generation technology. The 20-bar station features a conventional hand pump, volume adjuster and pressure/vacuum selector but will generate pressure with half the effort of conventional systems. The 100-bar pneumatic station represents a five-fold increase in capability and solves the transportation and EHS issues of using gas bottles and regulators as a pressure source, while the 1,000-bar hydraulic system generates pressure without priming into virtually any system volume thus avoiding the mess and wastage of bleeding open systems. Each station can be fitted with an overpressure protection device to protect both the pressure module and the device under test.
Available with a range of accessories, including soft carry cases and rigid transit solutions, the new modular system is expandable and adaptable to meet changing business and application requirements. A user can begin with the multi-function calibrator and then add pressure capability and other modularity over time. It offers significant cost savings through reduced inventory, user training and maintenance. The system has also been designed to cater for future system integration and incorporates USB and wireless connectivity and a micro SD memory slot.
