Safety at the highest level

The required SIL level defines how extensive the individual measures must be in order to reduce the risk posed by the processing facility to a tolerable residual risk. Depending on the degree of risk reduction required, users can choose between four different SIL levels: SIL1, SIL2, SIL3 and SIL4. In principle, the following applies: The higher the SIL level of a system, the lower the probability of dangerous faults occurring in the system that would restrict the required safety functions. All components of the safety chain – including the field devices for level, switching and pressure measurement – must meet the specifications for the processing system as a whole.

Numerous diagnostic functions in the instrument continuously ensure that dangerous faults are detected by the instrument at an early stage. In the rare event of an instrument malfunction, the VEGAPULS 6X radar sensor automatically switches to the safe state and thus provides maximum safety in systems that require SIL-qualified sensors for level measurement. The level sensor is suitable for use up to SIL2; if used in redundancy, for example two VEGAPULS 6X installed in parallel, it is even suitable for use up to level SIL3. 

Applying its wealth of experience in 80-GHz technology, VEGA launched a completely new development for VEGAPULS 6X that consistently fulfils the requirements of functional safety right from the start. The instrument manufacturer has built up extensive application expertise in 80-GHz technology and exploits the key advantages in terms of 

• focussing
• dynamic range

fully. The SIL version of VEGAPULS 6X is hardly affected by

• condensation
• steam and dust
• dirt and contamination
• turbulent surfaces or

foam. Also available in a hygienic version, it is suitable for both liquids and bulk solids.

When outfitting normal measuring points, operators often have to decide whether to use SIL-qualified field instruments or standard versions without SIL. It is advantageous to have as many of the same instrument type in use as possible – using both SIL and non-SIL instruments in a plant makes little sense. With VEGAPULS 6X, plant operators don’t even have to ask themselves this question: They get the 2-in-1 complete solution. Because with the SIL version, the additional diagnostics can be easily deactivated via the adjustment menu. This means that the sensor then behaves like a standard instrument without any restrictions, should that be necessary. Operators can thus future-proof their facility by making the SIL version the standard and also using it for measurement in normal, less safety-critical processes. This saves storage space and further reduces the complexity of the facility.

Another plus: When the initial setup or proof test is finished, the software creates a document that confirms the implementation and lists all the points tested. This means that, at the touch of a button, the operator can print out the necessary verification for the supervisory authorities – if desired, also synchronised with the operator’s myVEGA account.