Micropack FDS303 – Ex-proof Multi Spectrum IR (MSIR) Flame Detector
Micropack FDS303 is an explosion-proof Multi Spectrum IR (MSIR) flame detector developed for hazardous industries where fast fire detection is critical and false alarms are unacceptable. It delivers high-performance long-range response to hydrocarbon liquid fuel and gas fires.
About the Product
FDS303 uses advanced IR algorithms to detect hydrocarbon flames that may not be visible in the visible spectrum. The design goal is to provide long detection range while also maximizing immunity to false alarms.
Key Advantages
- Multi Spectrum IR detection: Long-range detection with advanced false alarm immunity.
- Continuous optical self-test: Ongoing verification without a reflector; helps maximize uptime.
- Heated optics: Helps maintain performance in harsh weather such as snow, ice and condensation.
- Adjustable sensitivity: Can be optimized per application; adjustable to help prevent unwanted “cross voting” between detectors.
- Standard industry outputs: Alarm/Fault relays, 0–20mA and HART® (standard).
- Easy field testing: External testing with a long-range flame simulator can help reduce the need for scaffolding.
Typical Applications
Suitable for rapid detection of hydrocarbon fires in hazardous and critical areas:
- Onshore/Offshore oil & gas facilities
- Refineries
- Petrochemical plants
- Chemical plants
- Pharmaceutical industry
- Aircraft hangars
- Road tunnels
- Power generation facilities
- Tank farms
- Road & rail loading racks
- LNG / LPG areas
- Warehouses / storage yards
- Waste recycling / biomass facilities
- Printing industry
Technical Specifications (Summary)
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Detector type | Multi Spectrum IR (MSIR) Flame Detector |
| Field of view (FOV) | 90° horizontal × 90° vertical |
| Operating voltage | 24 VDC nominal (18–32 VDC) |
| Power consumption | Min 3 W (heater off), up to 15 W at 32 VDC with heater max |
| Response time | Typically 2–5 seconds* |
| Outputs | Alarm + Fault relay contacts (DPDT 2A @ 30VDC), 0–20mA, HART® |
| Ingress protection | NEMA 4X / IP66 |
| Operating temperature | -60°C … +85°C |
| Storage temperature | -60°C … +85°C |
| Humidity | 0–100% RH (non-condensing) |
| Housing / material | Copper-free aluminium or 316 stainless steel |
| Dimensions | 100 mm Ø × 200 mm (approx.) |
| Cable entry | 3/4" NPT or M25 |
| Weight | Aluminium: 2.5 kg • Stainless steel: 6 kg |
| Functional safety | IEC 61508 — SIL 2 capable |
| Performance approvals | FM 3260 • EN 54-10 |
* Response time depends on fuel type, fire size and distance.
Flame Sensitivity (Example Fuels / Distances)
The values below show typical detection distances for standard test fuels at High and Standard sensitivity settings as provided in the datasheet.
| Sensitivity | Fuel | Fire Size | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
| High | n-Heptane | 30×30 cm | 60 m |
| High | n-Heptane + arc welding | 30×30 cm | 60 m |
| High | Gasoline | 30×30 cm | 60 m |
| High | Diesel | 30×30 cm | 50 m |
| High | Crude oil (heavy fuel) | 0.5×0.5 m | 50 m |
| High | JP4 | 30×30 cm | 60 m |
| High | Methane | 60 cm flame plume | 50 m |
| High | Ethanol | 30×30 cm | 42 m |
| High | Methanol | 30×30 cm | 42 m |
| Standard | n-Heptane | 30×30 cm | 30 m |
| Standard | Gasoline | 30×30 cm | 30 m |
| Standard | JP4 | 30×30 cm | 30 m |
| Standard | Methane | 60 cm flame plume | 30 m |
| Standard | Ethanol | 30×30 cm | 30 m |
Certifications, Hazardous Area Approvals & Accessories
Hazardous Area / Certification (Summary)
- Class I Div 1 Groups B, C, D T4 (Ambient -50°C…+85°C)
- Class I Zone 1 AEx/Ex db IIC T4 (Ambient -50°C…+85°C)
- ATEX II 2 G Ex db IIC T4
- IECEx Ex db IIC T4 (Ambient -60°C…+85°C)
- INMETRO Ex db IIC T4
- PESO Ex db IIC T4 (Ta -60°C…+85°C)
- Ingress: NEMA 4X / IP66
- IEC 61508: SIL 2 capable
- Marine: ABS Product Assessment
Accessories (Examples)
- Flame simulator (FS301)
- Pole mounting bracket
- Retrofit mounting bracket
- Marine mounting bracket
For support on hazardous area classification, cabling and control system compatibility in your project, please contact our sales team.
Documents
For project / survey support: the application area, sensitivity settings, mounting height and “cross vote” risks should be evaluated together.