GE 8101-HI-TX-02

Description

Product Description

The GE 8101-HI-TX-02 is a ruggedized, high-isolation analog input transmitter module designed for industrial process control and monitoring systems. This module, the GE 8101-HI-TX-02, functions as a signal conditioner and isolator, taking a field sensor input (such as a thermocouple, RTD, or millivolt signal) and converting it into a standardized, isolated 4-20 mA output signal. Its primary role is to provide accurate measurement, electrical isolation, and noise immunity for critical process variables in harsh environments. The GE 8101-HI-TX-02 is engineered for high reliability and is commonly used with GE PLC systems, DCS, or standalone measurement applications where signal integrity is paramount.

Product Parameters

The technical specifications for the GE 8101-HI-TX-02 analog transmitter are defined for precision and isolation:

• Module Type: Isolated Analog Input Transmitter (Temperature/mV to 4-20mA).

• Input Types: Configurable for various sensor inputs, commonly:

  • Thermocouples (Types J, K, T, E, R, S, B, N)

  • RTDs (Pt100, Pt1000)

  • Millivolt (mV) signals

  • Potentiometer

• Output: Single, isolated 4-20 mA DC, two-wire loop-powered output.

• Isolation: High isolation rating (typically 1500V AC) between input, output, and power supply to prevent ground loops and protect systems.

• Power Supply: Loop-powered; operates on the same two wires as the 4-20 mA output, requiring a minimum loop voltage (e.g., 12V DC) and a maximum loop resistance.

• Accuracy: High accuracy, typically ±0.1% of span or better, including effects of linearity and repeatability.

• Cold Junction Compensation (CJC): Built-in for thermocouple inputs for accurate temperature measurement.

• Configuration: Often features DIP switches or potentiometers for selecting input type, range, and other parameters.

• Operating Temperature: Rated for industrial temperature ranges (e.g., -20°C to 70°C).

• Mounting: DIN-rail mountable for easy installation in control panels.

Advantages and Features

The GE 8101-HI-TX-02 transmitter offers significant benefits for process measurement:

• Superior Signal Integrity and Noise Rejection: The GE 8101-HI-TX-02 provides high isolation and built-in filtering, delivering a clean, stable 4-20 mA signal even in electrically noisy plant environments, which is crucial for accurate control and monitoring.

• Versatile Input Compatibility: One model can be configured for a wide range of temperature sensors and low-level voltage signals, reducing inventory complexity and providing application flexibility.

• Simplified System Integration: The standard 4-20 mA output is universally compatible with PLC analog input cards, chart recorders, and DCS systems, making the 8101-HI-TX-02 an easy-to-integrate component.

• Loop-Powered Design: Requires no separate power supply, simplifying wiring and reducing installation costs, especially in remote or hazardous locations.

• Robust and Reliable Construction: Built to withstand vibration, temperature extremes, and industrial atmospheres, ensuring long-term, maintenance-free operation.

Application Cases in Industry

This transmitter is widely used across industries for precise temperature and signal measurement:

• Chemical Processing: Transmits temperature readings from reactors, distillation columns, and heat exchangers to the plant DCS for process control and safety monitoring.

• Power Generation: Conditions thermocouple signals from boiler tubes, steam lines, and turbine bearing temperatures for performance monitoring and protection systems.

• Food & Beverage Production: Monifies critical temperatures in pasteurizers, ovens, and fermentation tanks to ensure product quality and safety.

• Pharmaceutical Manufacturing: Provides isolated temperature signals from autoclaves, lyophilizers, and bioreactors in validated GMP processes.

• HVAC and Building Management: Used in large commercial facilities to monitor chilled/heating water temperatures and convert sensor signals for building automation controllers.

Comparisons with Competing Products

When compared to direct connection of sensors to PLC cards or using non-isolated transmitters, the GE 8101-HI-TX-02 provides a dedicated, higher-performance solution:

• Isolation and Protection vs. Direct Connection: Directly wiring a thermocouple to a PLC card exposes the sensitive electronics to ground loops and transients. The GE 8101-HI-TX-02 provides a protective barrier, improving system reliability and protecting expensive control equipment.

• Signal Conditioning vs. Basic Transmitter: Unlike a basic transmitter, the 8101-HI-TX-02 offers high-accuracy linearization for various thermocouple types and RTDs, built-in CJC, and superior noise rejection, resulting in more accurate measurements.

• GE Ecosystem Compatibility: While it works with any system, it is designed and tested to meet GE’s specifications for performance and reliability, making it a preferred choice for upgrades or expansions of existing GE-based control systems.

• Reduced Commissioning Effort: Its clear configuration via DIP switches and calibration potentiometers allows for quick setup in the field compared to software-configured transmitters that require a separate configurator.

Selection Suggestions and Precautions

Proper selection and configuration are key to optimal performance:

1. Confirm Input Sensor Type and Range: Precisely select the GE 8101-HI-TX-02 configuration (via DIP switches) to match your specific sensor type (e.g., Type K thermocouple, 0-1000°C) and the desired temperature span.

2. Verify Loop Power Requirements: Ensure your receiving device (PLC, recorder) or external power supply can provide the minimum required voltage (e.g., 12V DC) at the module, considering the total loop resistance (wire + input impedance).

3. Perform Field Calibration: For critical measurements, perform a field calibration using a accurate simulator. Adjust the zero and span potentiometers on the 8101-HI-TX-02 to match the known input signal to the correct 4-20 mA output.

4. Observe Wiring Practices: Use twisted, shielded pair cable for the sensor connection to the transmitter. Connect the shield to ground at one end only (typically at the transmitter or system ground, not both) to prevent ground loops.

5. Consider Environmental Protection: If installed in a harsh environment (washdown, corrosive atmosphere), ensure the transmitter is installed in an appropriately rated enclosure.

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