FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                CONTACT: Lauren Blais

                                                                                                                          Catalyst, Inc.

                                                                                                                          (401) 732-1886

 

New Connectivity Building Blocks Take On Hazardous Bus Network Environments

 

FERGUS FALLS, MN (June 12, 2001) – StoneL’s new JM™ (junction module) Series offers users the ability to conveniently connect their field bus wiring systems in both hazardous and general purpose environments. The JM provides quick, convenient field conduit and wiring termination and is available in a wide range of configurations.  Configurations include drop tees, disconnect switches, and I/O terminations for AS-Interface, DeviceNet, Modbus, Foundation Fieldbus and more. Because of its multiple uses and capabilities, it may be considered a fundamental building block for constructing any bus network in hazardous process environments.

 

The JM Series is rated for Class I & II, Division 1 & 2 locations. The durable enclosure is constructed of anodized aluminum and double coated with epoxy. It may be fitted with epoxy-potted modules adapting it to a variety of functional configurations. Its quick access threaded cover is available in epoxy coated aluminum or clear polycarbonate for convenient visual confirmation of LED indicators. 

 

Since the JM Series has a compact design and does not require seal fittings in both Div. 1 and Div. 2 areas, conduit space requirements and installation time are minimized.  Rated IP67, NEMA 4, 4X and 6, the JM Series may be rigorously washed down or temporarily submersed in most corrosive environments.

 

Configuration options include:

·        Disconnect Switch: Allows a field device on the bus to be removed, replaced or repaired while the balance of the network remains active. This is particularly important in hazardous locations where working on a device under power may be restricted. The switch also includes drop leg short circuit protection and external lock out and tag out features. Factory installed sealed leads eliminate seal-off requirements for the drop leg enabling removal of individual field devices while the bus remains energized, even in Div. 1 areas.

·        I/O modules:  Are Available with AS-Interface, DeviceNet, Modbus or Foundation Fieldbus protocols. Discrete and analog inputs and outputs (depending on protocol) may be connected into the bus network through the JM in hazardous and general-purpose plant environments.

·        Tees:  Provide a convenient, reliable means of wiring a drop from the bus network. Tees are available in passive or current limiting versions. Current limited Tees protect the bus from faults experienced on the drop leg/field device without affecting overall bus performance.

·        Junction Box: The JM may be ordered as a stand-alone junction box with a six-pole terminal block or without any internal components.

 

Technical support and training for hazardous area bus networking solutions are available via StoneL’s comprehensive FieldLink Program.

 

 

For more information contact StoneL, One StoneL Drive, Fergus Falls, MN 56537.

Toll-free: 800-843-7866. Phone: 218-739-5774. Fax: 218-739-5776.   Website: www.stonel.com.

 

 

StoneL is a leader in process networking solutions and valve communication technology.  StoneL’s FieldLink™ networking solutions focus on economically and reliably connecting field devices with the computer control architecture using proven bus networking technology. A wide range of products and support services, based on extensive process field instrument experience, allow StoneL and its FieldLink integrators and service providers to respond quickly and appropriately to each customer’s plant networking challenges.