FBA-20Kx1 Explosion-Proof Precision Balance
| Brand | Jihepu (Jinan Hepu) |
|---|---|
| Origin | Shandong, China |
| Model | FBA-20Kx1 |
| Maximum Capacity | 20 kg |
| Readability | 1 g |
| Repeatability | ±1 g |
| Calibration | Automatic internal calibration |
| Protection Rating | Ex dⅡBT4 Gb |
| Compliance Standard | Q/BXCJ001-2015 |
| Application Class | Industrial precision weighing in hazardous areas (Zone 1/2, Group IIB, T4) |
Overview
The FBA-20Kx1 Explosion-Proof Precision Balance is an intrinsically safe, microprocessor-controlled weighing instrument engineered for reliable mass measurement in classified hazardous environments where flammable gases, vapors, or combustible dusts may be present. Designed and certified to the Ex dⅡBT4 Gb flameproof enclosure standard per IEC 60079-1 and aligned with Chinese industrial specification Q/BXCJ001-2015, this balance utilizes a high-stability electromagnetic force compensation sensor system — a proven architecture for long-term linearity, thermal drift resistance, and mechanical robustness under operational stress. Unlike general-purpose laboratory balances, the FBA-20Kx1 integrates a fully encapsulated, pressure-resistant cast-iron housing with reinforced sealing at all cable entries, junctions, and display interfaces to prevent internal ignition propagation. Its 20 kg maximum capacity and 1 g readability meet ISO 8655-6 requirements for Class III non-automatic weighing instruments used in industrial process control and quality assurance workflows.
Key Features
- Flameproof enclosure certified to Ex dⅡBT4 Gb — suitable for Zone 1 and Zone 2 hazardous locations (IEC 60079-10-1), compatible with Group IIB gas atmospheres (e.g., ethylene) and temperature class T4 (surface temperature ≤135 °C).
- Electromagnetic force restoration (EMFR) load cell with auto-zero tracking and real-time temperature compensation — ensures stable repeatability of ±1 g across ambient operating range of –10 °C to +40 °C.
- Automatic internal calibration triggered by time interval, temperature shift (>1.5 °C), or manual initiation — traceable to NIST-traceable weights via documented calibration log export.
- Rugged die-cast aluminum base and stainless-steel weighing pan (220 × 220 mm) — resistant to mechanical shock, corrosion, and static accumulation in high-humidity or solvent-rich environments.
- Backlit LCD display with IP65-rated front panel — supports operation under low-light conditions while maintaining ingress protection against dust and water jets.
- RS-232 interface compliant with ASTM E2656-21 for external data logging; optional analog 4–20 mA output available for integration into DCS or PLC-based batch control systems.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The FBA-20Kx1 is validated for direct weighing of bulk energetic materials including propellants, initiators, pyrotechnic compositions, and assembled ordnance components without risk of electrostatic discharge or thermal ignition. Its design conforms to the functional safety requirements outlined in MIL-STD-1300A (Explosives Handling Equipment) and supports compliance with GB/T 3836.1–2021 (Chinese equivalent of IEC 60079-0). The balance is routinely deployed in facilities subject to GLP/GMP audits (e.g., defense industry QA labs, civil explosives manufacturing plants) and meets documentation traceability requirements under ISO/IEC 17025:2017 Clause 6.4.2 for equipment verification records. It is not intended for use in mining (Group I) or hydrogen-rich (Group IIC) atmospheres.
Software & Data Management
Data acquisition and audit trail functionality are implemented via embedded firmware supporting configurable printout formats (including date/time stamp, operator ID, gross/net/tare values, and calibration status). All weight events — including calibration actions, zeroing, tare operations, and overload alerts — are timestamped and stored in non-volatile memory with ≥10,000-event capacity. Exportable logs comply with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 principles when paired with validated third-party data management software (e.g., LabWare LIMS or Thermo Fisher SampleManager), enabling electronic signature support, user access controls, and immutable record retention. Firmware updates require physical USB key authentication to prevent unauthorized modification.
Applications
- Weighing of solid rocket propellant charges during missile motor assembly (per MIL-DTL-22805D).
- Batch formulation and ingredient verification in industrial detonator and primer production lines.
- In-process mass verification of pyrotechnic delay trains and thermal battery components in aerospace subsystem integration.
- Final inspection weighing of commercial blasting caps and seismic cartridges prior to packaging and distribution.
- Calibration reference checks for secondary field balances used in mobile ordnance maintenance units.
FAQ
Is the FBA-20Kx1 certified for use in Zone 0 environments?
No. It is rated Ex dⅡBT4 Gb, which permits operation only in Zone 1 and Zone 2 — not in continuous explosive atmospheres (Zone 0).
Does it support external calibration with certified test weights?
Yes. Manual external calibration mode is available and fully documented in the operator manual; calibration certificates must be retained per ISO/IEC 17025.
Can it be integrated into a centralized MES or ERP system?
Via RS-232 or optional 4–20 mA analog output, yes — provided the host system supports ASCII protocol framing and configurable baud rates (9600–115200 bps).
What is the recommended recalibration frequency under continuous operation?
Per Q/BXCJ001-2015, internal calibration should occur at least every 8 hours of active use or after any ambient temperature fluctuation exceeding ±2 °C.
Is the balance suitable for weighing hygroscopic or volatile compounds?
Only when used inside a ventilated fume hood or inert-gas glovebox — the enclosure does not provide chemical vapor containment; it prevents ignition only.
