FCI ST100A Series, Installation, Operation And Maintenance Manual

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ST100A Series Flow Meter MAINTENANCE
Fluid Components International LLC 89
4 MAINTENANCE
Warning: To avoid hazards to personnel, ensure that all environmental isolation seals are properly maintained.
Caution: The flow transmitter contains electrostatic discharge (ESD) sensitive devices. Use standard ESD precautions when
handling the flow transmitter. See ESD Precautions , page 16 for details.
Introduction
The flow meter needs very little maintenance. There are no moving parts or mechanical parts subject to wear in the flow meter. The flow
element that is exposed to the process media is all welded stainless steel construction. The flow element is only subject to chemical attack
based on the corrosion relationship between the RTD thermowell material and process media.
General Maintenance
Without detailed knowledge of the environmental parameters of the application surroundings and process media, FCI cannot make specific
recommendations for the periodic inspection, cleaning, or testing procedures. However, some suggested general guidelines for
maintenance steps are offered below. Use operation experience to establish the frequency of each type of maintenance.
Calibration
To ensure compliance with EPA 40 CFR Part 98, Subparts A and HH, FCI recommends checking the calibration of the ST100A Series flow
meter every 24 months and recalibrating the instrument if required.
Note that additional regional, state, or company guidelines may recommend more frequent (e.g., annual) verifications or recalibrations. FCI
recommends periodic cleaning of probes and enclosures.
Electrical Connections
Periodically inspect the wiring for secure connections to the terminal blocks. Verify that terminal connections are tight and physically sound
with no sign of corrosion.
Remote Enclosures
Verify that the moisture barriers and seals that protect the local and remote enclosures are intact. Make sure no water has intruded.
Electrical Wiring
Periodically inspect the power cable, flow element cable(s) and input/output cables. Check the conductors for corrosion and the cable
insulation for signs of deterioration.
Flow Element Connections
Verify that all seals are performing properly and that there is no leakage of the process media. Check for deterioration of the gaskets and
environmental seals used.
Flow Element Assembly
Periodically remove the flow element for inspection based on historical evidence of debris, foreign matter, or scale build-up. Also the flow
element can be removed at appropriate plant shutdown schedules. Check for corrosion, stress cracking, and build-up of oxides, salts, or
foreign substances. The thermowells must be free of excessive contaminants and be physically intact. Any build-up could cause faulty
readings. Clean the flow element as needed with a soft brush and available solvents (compatible with stainless steel).