Process instrumentation engineers have an exceptionally compact and versatile solution for the precise regulation of air temperature inside instrument or analyzer enclosures with the launch of Intertec's 'smart' programmable heater for hazardous area applications. Compared with trace heating cables, the new solution is much smaller and easier to install.

Approved for worldwide Zone 1 use, by IEC, ATEX, GOST and CSA, Intertec's smart heater consists of a heating element plus a networkable digital PID controller with encapsulated electronic circuitry. Dual temperature sensors are supplied: one intrinsically safe sensor that can be freely positioned in the enclosure or cabinet, another embedded in the heater body. These allow the system to control air temperature precisely while also ensuring safety in hazardous areas by limiting the element's maximum surface temperature to the required 'T' rating (T3-T6).

Elements available incluide finned, block and fluid heaters are available and types for ANSI/ISA standard SP76 analyzer substrates. Systems can be fitted with elements capable of outputs from 500W to 2kW.

Whatever the output power and element selected, systems are supplied as an approved and certificated system for use in Zone 1 environments. Compared with the approach of building explosion proof heating systems from components such as trace heating cables, controllers, and terminations, no costly inspections and certification processes are required.