Vega FIBERTRAC 31 User manual

Operating Instructions
Radiation-based sensor for continuous
level and interface measurement
FIBERTRAC 31
Probus PA
Document ID: 43833

2
Contents
FIBERTRAC 31 • Probus PA
43833-EN-131119
Contents
1 About this document
1.1 Function ........................................................................................................................... 4
1.2 Target group ..................................................................................................................... 4
1.3 Symbolism used............................................................................................................... 4
2 For your safety
2.1 Authorised personnel ....................................................................................................... 5
2.2 Appropriate use................................................................................................................ 5
2.3 Warning about incorrect use............................................................................................. 5
2.4 General safety instructions............................................................................................... 5
2.5 CE conformity................................................................................................................... 6
2.6 NAMUR recommendations .............................................................................................. 6
2.7 Environmental instructions ............................................................................................... 6
3 Product description
3.1 Conguration.................................................................................................................... 7
3.2 Principle of operation........................................................................................................ 8
3.3 Packaging, transport and storage..................................................................................... 8
3.4 Accessories and replacement parts ................................................................................. 9
3.5 Corresponding source container ...................................................................................... 9
4 Mounting
4.1 General instructions ....................................................................................................... 12
4.2 Mounting instructions ..................................................................................................... 13
5 Connecting to power supply
5.1 Preparing the connection ............................................................................................... 17
5.2 Connection - Level measurement................................................................................... 20
5.3 Connection - Level detection.......................................................................................... 23
5.4 Connection - Summation................................................................................................ 25
5.5 Set instrument address .................................................................................................. 27
6 Set up with the display and adjustment module
6.1 Insert display and adjustment module............................................................................ 28
6.2 Adjustment system......................................................................................................... 29
6.3 Parameter adjustment - Level measurement.................................................................. 29
6.4 Parameter adjustment - Summation Slave ..................................................................... 41
6.5 Parameter adjustment - Point level detection.................................................................. 46
6.6 Saving the parameter adjustment data........................................................................... 57
7 Setup with PACTware
7.1 Connect the PC.............................................................................................................. 58
7.2 Parameter adjustment with PACTware............................................................................ 58
7.3 Saving the parameter adjustment data........................................................................... 59
8 Set up with other systems
8.1 DD adjustment programs ............................................................................................... 60
9 Diagnostics and service
9.1 Maintenance .................................................................................................................. 61
9.2 Status messages............................................................................................................ 61
9.3 Rectify faults................................................................................................................... 65
9.4 Exchanging the electronics module................................................................................ 66

3
Contents
FIBERTRAC 31 • Probus PA
43833-EN-131119
9.5 Software update ............................................................................................................. 67
9.6 How to proceed in case of repair.................................................................................... 67
10 Dismounting
10.1 Dismounting steps.......................................................................................................... 68
10.2 Disposal ......................................................................................................................... 68
11 Supplement
11.1 Technical data ................................................................................................................ 69
11.2 Communication Probus PA........................................................................................... 74
11.3 Dimensions .................................................................................................................... 78
Safety instructions for Ex areas
Please note the Ex-specic safety information for installation and op-
eration in Ex areas. These safety instructions are part of the operating
instructions manual and come with the Ex-approved instruments.
Editing status: 2013-11-11

4
1 About this document
FIBERTRAC 31 • Probus PA
43833-EN-131119
1 About this document
1.1 Function
This operating instructions manual provides all the information you
need for mounting, connection and setup as well as important instruc-
tions for maintenance and fault rectication. Please read this informa-
tion before putting the instrument into operation and keep this manual
accessible in the immediate vicinity of the device.
1.2 Target group
This operating instructions manual is directed to trained specialist
personnel. The contents of this manual should be made available to
these personnel and put into practice by them.
1.3 Symbolism used
Information, tip, note
This symbol indicates helpful additional information.
Caution: If this warning is ignored, faults or malfunctions can result.
Warning: If this warning is ignored, injury to persons and/or serious
damage to the instrument can result.
Danger: If this warning is ignored, serious injury to persons and/or
destruction of the instrument can result.
Ex applications
This symbol indicates special instructions for Ex applications.
•List
The dot set in front indicates a list with no implied sequence.
→ Action
This arrow indicates a single action.
1 Sequence of actions
Numbers set in front indicate successive steps in a procedure.
Battery disposal
This symbol indicates special information about the disposal of bat-
teries and accumulators.

5
2 For your safety
FIBERTRAC 31 • Probus PA
43833-EN-131119
2 For your safety
2.1 Authorised personnel
All operations described in this operating instructions manual must
be carried out only by trained specialist personnel authorised by the
plant operator.
During work on and with the device the required personal protective
equipment must always be worn.
2.2 Appropriate use
FIBERTRAC 31 is a sensor for continuous level measurement.
You can nd detailed information on the application range in chapter
"Product description".
Operational reliability is ensured only if the instrument is properly
used according to the specications in the operating instructions
manual as well as possible supplementary instructions.
2.3 Warning about incorrect use
Inappropriate or incorrect use of the instrument can give rise to
application-specic hazards, e.g. vessel overll or damage to system
components through incorrect mounting or adjustment.
2.4 General safety instructions
This is a state-of-the-art instrument complying with all prevailing
regulations and guidelines. The instrument must only be operated in a
technically awless and reliable condition. The operator is responsible
for the trouble-free operation of the instrument.
During the entire duration of use, the user is obliged to determine the
compliance of the necessary occupational safety measures with the
current valid rules and regulations and also take note of new regula-
tions.
The safety instructions in this operating instructions manual, the na-
tional installation standards as well as the valid safety regulations and
accident prevention rules must be observed by the user.
For safety and warranty reasons, any invasive work on the device
beyond that described in the operating instructions manual may be
carried out only by personnel authorised by the manufacturer. Arbi-
trary conversions or modications are explicitly forbidden.
The safety approval markings and safety tips on the device must also
be observed.
This measuring system uses gamma rays. Therefore take note of the
instructions for radiation protection in chapter "Product description".
All work on the source container may only be carried out under the
supervision of a qualied radiation protection ocer.

6
2 For your safety
FIBERTRAC 31 • Probus PA
43833-EN-131119
2.5 CE conformity
The device fullls the legal requirements of the applicable EC guide-
lines. By axing the CE marking, VEGA conrms successful testing
of the product.
Only with class A instruments:
The device is a class A instrument designed for use in an industrial
environment. When used in a dierent environment, e.g., in a living
area, the electromagnetic compatibility must be ensured by the user.
If necessary, suitable screening measures against conducted and
emitted disturbances must be taken.
You can nd the conformity certicate in the download section under
www.vega.com.
2.6 NAMUR recommendations
NAMUR is the automation technology user association in the process
industry in Germany. The published NAMUR recommendations are
accepted as the standard in eld instrumentation.
The device fullls the requirements of the following NAMUR recom-
mendations:
•NE 21 – Electromagnetic compatibility of equipment
•NE 43 – Signal level for malfunction information from measuring
transducers
•NE 53 – Compatibility of eld devices and display/adjustment
components
•NE 107 – Self-monitoring and diagnosis of eld devices
For further information see www.namur.de.
2.7 Environmental instructions
Protection of the environment is one of our most important duties.
That is why we have introduced an environment management system
with the goal of continuously improving company environmental pro-
tection. The environment management system is certied according
to DIN EN ISO 14001.
Please help us fulll this obligation by observing the environmental
instructions in this manual:
•Chapter "Packaging, transport and storage"
•Chapter "Disposal"

7
3 Product description
FIBERTRAC 31 • Probus PA
43833-EN-131119
3 Product description
3.1 Conguration
The nameplate contains the most important data for identication and
use of the instrument:
2
1
9
10
4
5
3
6
7
8
9
Fig. 1: Layout of the type label (example)
1 Instrument type
2 Product code
3 Electronics
4 Protection rating
5 Ambient temperature
6 Measuring range
7 Hardware and software version
8 Order number
9 Serial number of the instrument
10 ID numbers, instrument documentation
The type label contains the serial number of the instrument. With it
you can nd the following data on our homepage:
•Product code of the instrument (HTML)
•Delivery date (HTML)
•Order-specic instrument features (HTML)
•Operating instructions at the time of shipment (PDF)
•Order-specic sensor data for an electronics exchange (XML)
•Test certicate pressure transmitters (PDF)
Go to www.vega.com, "VEGA Tools" and "Serial number search".
As an alternative, you can nd the data via your Smartphone:
•Download the smartphone app "VEGA Tools" from the "Apple App
Store" or the "Google Play Store"
•Scan the Data Matrix code on the type label of the instrument or
•Enter the serial number manually in the app
This operating instructions manual applies to the following instrument
versions:
•Hardware from 1.0.4
•Software from 1.5.0
Type plate
Serial number
Scope of this operating
instructions manual

8
3 Product description
FIBERTRAC 31 • Probus PA
43833-EN-131119
•Modication status, electronics as of -01
The instrument is available in dierent electronics versions. Each ver-
sion can be identied via the product code on the type label:
•Standard electronics type PT30P-XX
The scope of delivery encompasses:
•Radiation-based sensor
•Mounting accessory
•Documentation
– this operating instructions manual
– Operating instructions manual "Display and adjustment mod-
ule" (optional)
– Ex-specic "Safety instructions" (with Ex versions)
– if necessary, further certicates
3.2 Principle of operation
The instrument is suitable for applications in liquids and bulk solids in
vessels under dicult process conditions. There are application pos-
sibilities in nearly all areas of industry.
The level is detected contactlessly right through the vessel wall.
Neither a process tting nor a vessel opening are required. The instru-
ment is thus ideal for retro installation.
In radiation-based measurement, a Caesium-137 or Cobalt-60 iso-
tope emits focussed gamma rays that are attenuated when penetrat-
ing the vessel wall and the medium. The PVT detector on the opposite
side of the tank receives the radiation, whose strength is dependent
on the level. The measuring principle has proven to be very reliable
in conjunction with extreme process conditions because it measures
contactlessly from outside through the vessel wall. The measuring
system ensures maximum safety, reliability and plant availability,
independently of the medium and its properties.
3.3 Packaging, transport and storage
Your instrument was protected by packaging during transport. Its
capacity to handle normal loads during transport is assured by a test
based on ISO 4180.
The packaging of standard instruments consists of environment-
friendly, recyclable cardboard. For special versions, PE foam or PE
foil is also used. Dispose of the packaging material via specialised
recycling companies.
Transport must be carried out in due consideration of the notes on the
transport packaging. Nonobservance of these instructions can cause
damage to the device.
Electronics versions
Scope of delivery
Application area
Functional principle
Packaging
Transport

9
3 Product description
FIBERTRAC 31 • Probus PA
43833-EN-131119
The delivery must be checked for completeness and possible transit
damage immediately at receipt. Ascertained transit damage or con-
cealed defects must be appropriately dealt with.
Up to the time of installation, the packages must be left closed and
stored according to the orientation and storage markings on the
outside.
Unless otherwise indicated, the packages must be stored only under
the following conditions:
•Not in the open
•Dry and dust free
•Not exposed to corrosive media
•Protected against solar radiation
•Avoiding mechanical shock and vibration
•Storage and transport temperature see chapter "Supplement -
Technical data - Ambient conditions"
•Relative humidity 20 … 85 %
3.4 Accessories and replacement parts
The display and adjustment module PLICSCOM is used for measured
value indication, adjustment and diagnosis. It can be inserted into the
sensor or the external display and adjustment unit and removed at
any time.
You can nd further information in the operating instructions "Display
and adjustment module PLICSCOM" (Document-ID 27835).
The interface adapter VEGACONNECT enables the connection of
communication-capable instruments to the USB interface of a PC. For
parameter adjustment of these instruments, the adjustment software
PACTware with VEGA-DTM is required.
You can nd further information in the operating instructions "Interface
adapter VEGACONNECT" (Document-ID 32628).
The VEGADIS 81 is an external display and adjustment unit for VEGA
plics®sensors.
For sensors with double chamber housing the interface adapter "DIS-
ADAPT" is also required for VEGADIS 81.
You can nd further information in the operating instructions "VE-
GADIS 81" (Document-ID 43814).
The electronics module PT30E.XX is a replacement part for radiation-
based sensors FIBERTRAC 31.
The electronics module can only be exchanged by VEGA service
technician.
3.5 Corresponding source container
A radioactive isotope in a suitable source holder is the prerequisite for
a radiation-based measurement setup.
Transport inspection
Storage
Storage and transport
temperature
PLICSCOM
VEGACONNECT
VEGADIS 81
Electronics module

10
3 Product description
FIBERTRAC 31 • Probus PA
43833-EN-131119
The handling of radioactive substances is regulated by law. The radia-
tion protection rules of the country in which the system is operated
apply rst and foremost.
In Germany, for example, the current radiation protection ordinance
(StrlSchV) based on the Atomic Energy Law (AtG) applies.
The following points are important for measurement with radiation-
based methods:
A handling permit is required for operation of a system using gamma
rays. This permit is issued by the respective government oce or the
responsible authority (in Germany, for example, oces for environ-
mental protection, trade supervisory boards, etc.)
You can nd further instructions in the operating instructions manual
of the source container.
When handling radioactive sources, unnecessary radiation exposure
must be avoided. An unavoidable radiation exposure must be kept as
low as possible. Take note of the following three important measures:
1 2 3
Fig. 2: Measures for protection against radioactive radiation
1 Shielding
2 Time
3 Distance
Shielding: Provide good shielding between the radioactive source
and yourself as well as all other persons. Special source containers
(e.g. VEGASOURCE) as well as all materials with high density (e.g.
lead, iron, concrete, etc.) provide eective shielding.
Time: Stay as short a time as possible in radiation exposed areas.
Distance: Your distance to the source should be as large as possible.
The local dose rate of the radiation decreases in proportion to the
square of the distance to the radiation source.
The plant operator must appoint a radiation safety ocer with the
necessary expert knowledge. He is responsible that the radiation
protection ordinance is maintained and that all radiation protection
measures are implemented.
Control areas are areas in which the local dose rate exceeds a certain
value. Only persons who undergo ocial dose monitoring are allowed
into these control areas. You can nd the respectively valid limit values
Handling permit
General instructions for
radiation protection
Radiationsafetyocer
Control area

11
3 Product description
FIBERTRAC 31 • Probus PA
43833-EN-131119
for control areas in the guideline of the respective authority (in Ger-
many, for example, the radiation protection ordinance).
We are at your disposal for further information concerning radiation
protection and regulations in other countries.

12
4 Mounting
FIBERTRAC 31 • Probus PA
43833-EN-131119
4 Mounting
4.1 General instructions
The source container is part of the measuring system. In case the
source container is already equipped with an active isotope, the
source container must be locked before mounting.
Danger:
Before mounting; make sure that the source is securely closed. Use
a padlock to secure the source container in the closed condition and
prevent it from being inadvertently opened.
Protect your instrument against moisture penetration through the fol-
lowing measures:
•Use the recommended cable (see chapter "Connecting to power
supply")
•Tighten the cable gland
•Loop the connection cable downward in front of the cable gland
This applies particularly to:
•Outdoor mounting
•Installations in areas where high humidity is expected (e.g. through
cleaning processes)
•Installations on cooled or heated vessels
Make sure that all parts of the instrument exposed to the process are
suitable for the existing process conditions.
These are mainly:
•Active measuring component
•Process tting
•Process seal
Process conditions are particularly:
•Process pressure
•Process temperature
•Chemical properties of the medium
•Abrasion and mechanical inuences
You can nd the specications of the process conditions in chapter
"Technical data" as well as on the nameplate.
In the case of instrument housings with self-sealing NPT threads, it is
not possible to have the cable entries screwed in at the factory. The
openings for the cable glands are therefore covered with red protec-
tive caps as transport protection.
Prior to setup you have to replace these protective caps with ap-
proved cable glands or close the openings with suitable blind plugs.
The suitable cable glands and blind plugs come with the instrument.
Switchosource
Protection against mois-
ture
Suitability for the process
conditions
Protective caps

13
4 Mounting
FIBERTRAC 31 • Probus PA
43833-EN-131119
4.2 Mounting instructions
Note:
Along with the planning, our specialists will analyse the conditions of
the measurement loop to dimension the source (isotope) accordingly.
You get a "Source Sizing" document specifying the required source
activity and containing all relevant mounting information for your
measuring point.
You must follow the instructions of this "Source Sizing" document in
addition to the following mounting instructions.
The following mounting information is applicable as long as there is
nothing else specied in the "Source Sizing" document.
L1
L2
h
Fig. 3: Level measurement in a storage tank
h Measuring range
L Measurement length (L1, L2)
You can nd information on protective barriers and the mounting
of the corresponding source container in the operating instructions
manual of the source container, e.g. VEGASOURCE.
You can mount the FIBERTRAC 31 with the housing head upward or
downward. When the housing head is mounted downward, the hous-
ing itself is more easily accessible.
Fasten the sensor in such a way that it cannot fall out of the holder. If
necessary, provide the sensor with a support from below.
Direct the exit angle of the source container to the FIBERTRAC 31.
Installation position

14
4 Mounting
FIBERTRAC 31 • Probus PA
43833-EN-131119
Mount the source container as close as possible to the vessel. If there
are gaps, secure the area with a safety fence and protective grating
so that no one can reach into the dangerous area.
To measure the level in very high vessels, multiple instruments can be
cascaded.
Cascading means that two or several instruments are connected
which can together cover a longer measuring range.
You can nd the exact number of Slaves in the Safety Manual.
L1L2
h
1
Fig. 4: Installation position - cascading arrangement
h Summed measuring range
L Measurement length (L1, L2)
1 Red marking line for designating the measuring range
Here, one instrument acts as a Master and all other instruments
operate as Summation Slaves. The pulse rates of all instruments
are summed in the Master instrument and converted into a common
signal.
If several sensors are cascaded, the measuring ranges of the indi-
vidual detectors must directly join each other. The detectors must also
slightly overlap.
Make sure that the red marking lines directly join the measuring range
of the next FIBERTRAC 31.
Summation

15
4 Mounting
FIBERTRAC 31 • Probus PA
43833-EN-131119
Mount the FIBERTRAC 31 in such a way that the detector tube is
directly in the radiated area of the source container. Mount the FIBER-
TRAC 31 preferably side by side and make sure that no detector tube
is hidden by another sensor.
On vessels with temperature insulation, the sensor and the source
container should be preferably mounted outside of the tank insulation.
Fig. 5: Level measurement on a heated vessel with heat insulation
If this is not possible, make sure that there is a suciently large
cut-out in the tank insulation for mounting the sensor and the source
container. Make sure that the max. ambient temperature of the sensor
is not exceeded.
If the max. ambient temperature is exceeded, you must take suitable
measures to protect the instrument against overheating.
You can protect the instrument by providing a suitable insulation
against the heat or mounting the instrument further away from the
heat source.
Make sure these measures are taken into account already in the plan-
ning stage. If you want to carry out such measures later on, contact
our specialists to ensure that the accuracy of the application is not
impaired.
If these measures are not sucient to maintain the max. ambient
temperature, you could consider using the water cooling system we
oer for FIBERTRAC 31.
Vessel with heat insula-
tion
Protection against heat

16
4 Mounting
FIBERTRAC 31 • Probus PA
43833-EN-131119
The water cooling must also be included in the calculations for the
measuring point. Contact our specialists regarding the dimensioning
of the water cooling.

17
5 Connecting to power supply
FIBERTRAC 31 • Probus PA
43833-EN-131119
5 Connecting to power supply
5.1 Preparing the connection
Always keep in mind the following safety instructions:
•Connect only in the complete absence of line voltage
•If overvoltage surges are expected, overvoltage arresters should
be installed
The voltage supply is provided by a Probus DP /PA segment coupler.
The voltage supply range can dier depending on the instrument
version. You can nd the data for voltage supply in chapter "Technical
data".
Connection is made with screened cable according to the Probus
specication. Power supply and digital bus signal are carried over the
same two-wire connection cable.
Use cable with round cross-section. A cable outer diameter of
5 … 9 mm (0.2 … 0.35 in) ensures the seal eect of the cable gland.
If you are using cable with a dierent diameter or cross-section,
exchange the seal or use a suitable cable gland.
Please make sure that your installation is carried out according to the
Probus specication. In particular, make sure that the termination of
the bus is done with appropriate terminating resistors.
You can nd detailed information of the cable specication, installa-
tion and topology in the "Probus PA - User and Installation Guide-
line" on www.probus.com.
Generally provide all unused cable entries with suitable blind plugs.
The thin foam rubber washers in the cable glands only serve as a
dust cover during transport.
In the case of instrument housings with self-sealing NPT threads, it
is generally not possible to have the cable glands screwed in at the
factory. The openings for the cable glands are therefore covered with
red protective caps as transport protection.
Before setup you have to replace these protective caps with approved
cable glands or close the openings with suitable blind plugs. Unused
cable glands do not provide sucient protection against moisture and
must be replaced with blind plugs.
The suitable cable glands and blind plugs come with the instrument.
Make sure that the cable screening and ground is executed accord-
ing to the Fielbus specication. If electromagnetic interference is
expected which is above the test values of EN 61326-1 for industrial
areas, we recommend to connect the cable screen on both ends to
ground potential.
In systems with potential equalisation, connect the cable screen
directly to ground potential at the power supply unit, in the connection
box and at the sensor. The screen in the sensor must be connected
Safety instructions
Voltage supply
Connection cable
Cable entry
Cable gland ½ NPT
Cable screening and
grounding

18
5 Connecting to power supply
FIBERTRAC 31 • Probus PA
43833-EN-131119
directly to the internal ground terminal. The ground terminal outside
on the housing must be connected to the potential equalisation (low
impedance).
In systems without potential equalisation with cable screening on
both sides, connect the cable screen directly to ground potential at
the power supply unit and at the sensor. In the connection box or
T-distributor, the screen of the short stub to the sensor must not be
connected to ground potential or to another cable screen. The cable
screens to the power supply unit and to the next distributor must be
connected to each other and also connected to ground potential via a
ceramic capacitor (e.g. 1 nF, 1500 V). Low-frequency potential equali-
sation currents are thus suppressed, but the protective eect against
high frequency interference signals remains.
The voltage supply and signal output are connected via the spring-
loaded terminals in the housing.
The connection to the display and adjustment module or to the inter-
face adapter is carried out via contact pins in the housing.
Proceed as follows:
The procedure applies to instruments without explosion protection.
1. Unscrew the big housing cover
2. Loosen compression nut of the cable entry
3. Remove approx. 10 cm (4 in) of the cable mantle, strip approx.
1 cm (0.4 in) of insulation from the ends of the individual wires
4. Insert the cable into the sensor through the cable entry
Connection technology
Connection procedure

19
5 Connecting to power supply
FIBERTRAC 31 • Probus PA
43833-EN-131119
1
Fig. 6: Connection steps 4 and 5
1 Locking of the terminal blocks
5. Insert a small slotted screwdriver rmly into the rectangular lock
openings of the respective connection terminal
6. Insert the wire ends into the round openings of the terminals ac-
cording to the wiring plan
Information:
Solid cores as well as exible cores with cable end sleeves are
inserted directly into the terminal openings. In case of exible cores
without end sleeves, press the rectangular lock opening with a small
screwdriver; the terminal opening is freed. When the screwdriver is
released, the terminal opening closes again.
7. Check the hold of the wires in the terminals by lightly pulling on
them
To loosen a line, insert a small slotted screwdriver rmly into the
rectangular locking opening according to the illustration
8. Connect the screen to the internal ground terminal, connect the
outer ground terminal to potential equalisation
9. Tighten the compression nut of the cable entry gland. The seal
ring must completely encircle the cable
10. Screw the housing cover back on
The electrical connection is hence nished.

20
5 Connecting to power supply
FIBERTRAC 31 • Probus PA
43833-EN-131119
Information:
The terminal blocks are pluggable and can be detached from the
electronics. For this purpose loosen the two lateral locking levers of
the terminal block with a small screwdriver. When loosening the lock-
ing, the terminal block is automatically squeezed out. It must snap in
place when re-inserted.
5.2 Connection - Level measurement
Non-Ex instruments and instruments with non-intrinsically safe
current output
7
9
10
5
6
8
1
2
3
4
1
1
24
/L
/N
PE
56
22 11
12
2122 1920 18 17 14 1316 15 12
91011
Fig. 7: Electronics and connection compartment with non-Ex instruments and
instruments with non-intrinsically safe current output
1 Voltage supply
2 Relay output
3 Adjustment bus address for Probus PA
4 Connection Probus PA
5 Signal input 4 … 20 mA (active sensor)
6 Switching input for NPN transistor
7 Switching input oating
8 Transistor output
9 Interface for sensor-sensor communication (MGC)
10 Setting the bus address for sensor-sensor communication (MGC)1)
Electronics and con-
nection compartment
- Non-Ex instruments and
instruments with non-
intrinsically safe current
output
1) MGC = Multi Gauge Communication