Save Space, Save Time, Stay Safe with the New MTL Compact Fieldbus Barrier from Eaton

EIN Eaton fieldbus 400

Nov 15, 2019

Eaton has added a new ‘compact’ model to its class-leading MTL 937x-FB Fieldbus Barrier range. The 937x-FB3 offers specifiers, system builders and end users a cost-effective option that delivers all the benefits of proven MTL intrinsically safe barrier technology within a significantly smaller footprint.

The new MTL Compact Fieldbus Barrier uses the same proven electronics as the established 937x-FB Fieldbus Barrier range with over 10 years reliable operation. However, it is 40% smaller than standard MTL Fieldbus Barriers thanks to a simplified design, which eliminates internal wiring. Its compact, economical design minimises capital expenditure on cost-sensitive projects and delivers key benefits including shorter installation time, a lower risk of faults and simplified maintenance requirements. Its compactness also allows Fieldbus Barrier architecture to be deployed anywhere, making the 937x-FB3 particularly suited to oil & gas, petrochemical and other industrial applications where the need for intrinsic safety combines with limitations on installation space.

The MTL FB3 is a wiring hub for connecting intrinsically safe (IS) field instruments to a fieldbus network in hazardous locations. The device takes in the high energy trunk supply and converts it to an intrinsically safe supply so that it cannot act as a source of ignition in potentially explosive atmospheres.

Offering full trunk surge protection, the FB3 enables safe, live workability on spurs, optimising uptime.

A single FB3 module supports complete segments with up to 12 spur connections. Customers can specify the technology either as a module for third party integration and certification, or as a complete assembly within a stainless steel enclosure. To make commissioning easier, the complete assembly option is supplied with hazardous area certification of the junction box and internal components. Specifiers and system builders can also select from a wide variety of assemble-to-order (ATO) options for fast product delivery to meet customer requirements: all of which makes the FB3 a flexible and versatile barrier solution for IS applications.

The MTL FB3 Compact Fieldbus Barrier is registered with the FieldComm Group, so specifiers and users can be confident that it is universally compatible with other Foundation fieldbus H1 products. The FB3 also holds relevant certifications for global compliance with EMC, low voltage and ATEX for CE products. Suitable for mounting in IEC Zone 1 and any Gas Group, the FB3 is fully compliant with connection to FISCO (Fieldbus Intrinsically Safe Concept) or entity devices in a Zone 0 hazardous area.  In addition, the FB3 can be replaced as a single module with a gas clearance certification.

Go HERE for more information

Related Articles


Latest Articles

  • Maximizing Excel: Practical Use Cases for Preconstruction

    Maximizing Excel: Practical Use Cases for Preconstruction

    November 8, 2024 By Melvin Newman Excel is a powerful and flexible tool that can enhance efficiency in electrical construction estimating.  Spreadsheets, like those in Excel, consist of a grid of “cells” where each cell can hold various types of data. Originating from mainframe computers in the 1960s and later developed for Apple computers in… Read More…

  • The Non-Residential Sector Declines in All Three Components Despite Sustained Industrial Permit Level

    The Non-Residential Sector Declines in All Three Components Despite Sustained Industrial Permit Level

    November 4, 2024 The total value of building permits in Canada decreased by $858.1 million (-7.0%) to $11.5 billion in August, following a strong July during which construction intentions rose sharply (+20.8%). The residential and non-residential sectors contributed to the decrease in August. On a constant dollar basis (2017=100), the total value of building permits decreased 7.6% in… Read More…

  • A Slight Decrease in Residential Building Construction for August

    A Slight Decrease in Residential Building Construction for August

    November 4, 2024 Investment in building construction edged up 0.2% to $21.0 billion in August, after a 1.6% decrease in July. The residential sector edged down (-0.1%) to $14.6 billion, while the non-residential sector was up 1.0% to $6.4 billion. Year over year, investment in building construction grew 7.2% in August. On a constant dollar basis (2017=100), investment in building construction was… Read More…

  • When a Familiar Door Closes

    When a Familiar Door Closes

    November 4, 2024 By Keith Sones, seasoned utility industry executive Most of the articles I’ve written have been based on personal experiences, many of them occurring decades ago, which eventually translate into helpful life lessons. The years allow the events to marinate in a savoury stew of time and reflection, clarity never coming immediately, or even… Read More…


Changing Scene