Installation Guidelines for Rosemount 3051 in Hazardous and Safe Areas

The Rosemount 3051 pressure transmitter is widely used across industries for its accuracy and reliability. However, installation practices differ significantly between hazardous (explosion-proof) and safe (non-hazardous) areas. Below is a structured guide to help engineers and technicians ensure compliance and performance.

Hazardous Area Installation (Explosion-Proof / Intrinsically Safe)

When installing in Zone 0, Zone 1, or Class I Div. 1/2 areas, safety is paramount.

• Certification Compliance
• Follow ATEX, IECEx, FM, CSA, or local hazardous area approvals.
• Ensure the transmitter model carries the correct marking (e.g., Ex d, Ex ia).
• Enclosure & Conduit
• Use flameproof (Ex d) or intrinsically safe (Ex ia) housings depending on the application.
• Seal unused conduit entries with certified plugs.
• Wiring & Barriers
• For intrinsically safe loops, install Zener barriers or galvanic isolators in the safe area.
• Maintain segregation between IS wiring and non-IS wiring.
• Grounding & Bonding
• Bond the transmitter housing to the plant grounding system.
• Avoid ground loops by using a single-point ground reference.
• Cable Glands
• Use Ex-certified glands with appropriate IP rating (IP66/67).
• Ensure strain relief and sealing to prevent gas ingress.
• Maintenance Precautions
• Never open the housing under power in a hazardous zone unless certified for “hot work.”
• Follow lockout/tagout and gas-freeing procedures before servicing.

Safe Area Installation (Non-Hazardous Locations)

In control rooms, utility areas, or non-classified zones, installation is more straightforward:

• Mounting Flexibility
• Standard brackets or manifold mounting can be used without explosion-proof restrictions.
• Wiring
• Use shielded twisted-pair cables for signal integrity.
• Conduit sealing is not mandatory but recommended for dust/moisture protection.
• Grounding
• Connect shield drain wire at one end only (typically the control system side).
• Ensure housing is grounded for EMI/RFI protection.
• Environmental Protection
• Protect against vibration, temperature extremes, and corrosive atmospheres.
• Use weatherproof enclosures if installed outdoors.

Key Differences at a Glance

Conclusion

Installing a Rosemount 3051 correctly ensures not only measurement accuracy but also plant safety and regulatory compliance. In hazardous areas, the focus is on explosion protection, certified components, and strict wiring practices. In safe places, the emphasis shifts to signal integrity and environmental protection.