New failsafe versions of differential pressure sensors

Sensirion has launched new versions of its acclaimed SDP600 series which are able to perform certified failsafe measurements. The digital SDP600 differential pressure sensors are already used successfully in medical and HVAC applications and feature excellent long-term stability as well as the highest degree of sensitivity and accuracy, especially at very low pressure differences. The new models SDP620, SDP621, SDP630 and SDP631 now additionally allow verification of the measured values. Thanks to their pre-certification, the sensors can be easily integrated into failsafe control systems – this is particularly relevant for applications with high safety requirements, such as gas burners.

The new types of differential pressure sensors can be configured to provide special test patterns for error checking by an external microprocessor. This makes it possible for the sensors to achieve measurement of differential pressure and mass flow values to Class C safety level, provided that the test patterns are executed properly. Specifically, the SDP620, SDP621, SDP630 and SDP631 comply with Directives EN 12067-2:2004 “Gas/air ratio controls for gas burners and gas burning appliances - Part 2: Electronic types” and EN 13611:2007 “Safety and control devices for gas burners and gas burning appliances - General requirements”.

The new models are tailored to different hardware designs and measurement applications to allow customers a high level of flexibility when integrating. While the mass flow temperature compensated SDP621 and SDP631 are optimally suited for measuring mass flow, the SDP620 and SDP630 sensors output the true differential pressure value. Furthermore, the SDP620 and SDP621 sensors are intended for a direct threaded connection to a pressure manifold with O-ring sealing, while the SDP63x models are equipped with standard hose connectors.

The new versions can, for example, be integrated into safety-relevant combustion control systems with electronic air/gas ratio control. Because of their failsafe certification, it is not necessary to use two redundant sensors to meet high safety requirements. This permits a cost-effective design and, thanks to the outstanding performance of the sensors, the turn-down ratio of gas burners can be boosted to more than 1:10 to provide energy efficient and environmentally friendly combustion.

About Sensirion

The Swiss sensor manufacturer Sensirion AG is a leading international supplier of CMOS-based sensor components and systems. Its range of high-quality products includes humidity and temperature sensors, mass flow meters and controllers, gas and liquid flow sensors, and differential pressure sensors. Sensirion supports its international OEM customers with tailormade sensor system solutions for a wide variety of applications. Among others, they include analytical instruments, consumer goods, and applications in the medical technology, automotive and HVAC sectors. Sensirion products are distinguished by their use of patented CMOSens® technology. This enables customers to benefit from intelligent system integration, including calibration and digital interfaces. Sensirion’s competence as a reliable OEM partner is underlined by its quality management system, which was certified in March 2008 in accordance with the ISO/TS 16949 standard.