Sartorius FC12CCE-SX Intrinsically Safe Explosion-Proof Scale

Overview

The Sartorius FC12CCE-SX is an intrinsically safe, explosion-proof weighing instrument engineered for precise mass measurement in hazardous environments classified under Zone 1, Division 1, and ATEX Category 2G. Designed in accordance with IEC 60079-11 and certified to ATEX II 2 G EEx ib IIC T4, FM Class I Div 1 Groups A/B/C/D T4, and CSA Class I Div 1 Groups A/B/C/D T4, this scale ensures operational safety where flammable gases, vapors, or dusts may be present. Its core measurement principle relies on electromagnetic force compensation (EMFC) technology—delivering high reproducibility, long-term stability, and minimal drift across temperature fluctuations (0–40 °C). With a nominal capacity of 12 kg and readability of 0.1 g, the FC12CCE-SX meets OIML R76, NIST Handbook 44, and EU Measuring Instruments Directive (MID Annex MI-001) requirements for legal-for-trade applications in pharmaceutical, chemical, petrochemical, and fine-chemical manufacturing.

Key Features

• Intrinsically safe design compliant with Ex ib IIC T4 protection level—enabling safe operation in gas groups IIA, IIB, and IIC environments.
• Integrated motorized internal calibration system with isoTEST functionality: single-button initiation of full-range automatic calibration using built-in reference masses.
• Robust stainless-steel load cell and housing architecture optimized for mechanical shock resistance and long-term repeatability in industrial settings.
• Backlit graphical LCD display with intuitive English-language prompts and icon-based navigation—fully functional in hazardous zones without external lighting.
• Flexible power architecture supporting multiple configurations: 24 V DC industrial PSU (for 19″ cabinet mounting), dual-voltage AC input (100–120 V / 220–240 V), and rechargeable battery pack certified for Zones 1, 20, and 21.
• Standard RS232C interface with ASCII protocol support—enabling seamless integration into LIMS, MES, and SCADA systems under FDA 21 CFR Part 11-compliant data workflows when paired with validated software.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The FC12CCE-SX accommodates diverse sample types—from bulk powders and solvents to packaged intermediates—within its 218 × 200 × 86 mm stainless-steel pan cavity. Its intrinsic safety barrier eliminates spark risk during routine handling, making it suitable for weigh-in/blend operations involving volatile organic compounds (VOCs), solvent-based formulations, or reactive catalysts. All units undergo factory verification per ISO/IEC 17025-accredited procedures and are supplied with traceable calibration certificates aligned with national metrology institutes (e.g., PTB, NIST). The device satisfies Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) Annex 11 and GLP audit requirements through deterministic calibration logging, user-accessible audit trails, and tamper-evident firmware signatures.

Software & Data Management

Data capture and process control are supported via two validated software packages: SartoPac Basic (for documentation of individual weighings, batch records, and electronic signature capture) and Average Weight Control Terminal Software (for statistical weight monitoring compliant with USP , Ph. Eur. 2.2.17, and FDA guidance on content uniformity). Both tools enforce role-based access control, electronic signature authentication, and immutable audit logs meeting ALCOA+ principles. Raw RS232 output supports CSV or XML formatting for direct ingestion into ERP platforms such as SAP QM or Oracle Manufacturing Cloud—ensuring full data lineage from measurement event to regulatory submission.

Applications

• Pharmaceutical formulation: Accurate dispensing of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and excipients in controlled atmospheres.
• Chemical synthesis: Weighing of flammable reagents (e.g., THF, acetone, hydrogen peroxide solutions) prior to reactor charging.
• Petrochemical QC labs: Density determination and net-content verification of pressurized cylinder fills.
• Explosives manufacturing: Batch-wise mass verification of energetic materials under IEC 61326-3-1 immunity requirements.
• Food-grade additive blending: Compliance with HACCP critical control point (CCP) monitoring in ATEX Zone 22 dust environments.

FAQ

Is the FC12CCE-SX suitable for use in Zone 20 dust environments?
Yes—the integrated rechargeable battery option carries certification for Zone 20 (IEC 60079-0, IEC 60079-31), enabling safe operation where combustible dust clouds may persist.
Does the scale support GLP-compliant calibration records?
Yes—isoTEST calibration events generate time-stamped, user-identified entries with deviation reporting, stored internally and exportable via RS232 for archival in validated document management systems.
Can multiple FC-series scales be networked for centralized monitoring?
Up to eight units may be daisy-chained via RS232 multiplexing using Sartorius’ optional COM-MUX hardware, enabling synchronized data collection and alarm aggregation across distributed hazardous locations.
What is the warranty coverage for intrinsic safety components?
Sartorius provides a 36-month limited warranty covering all explosion-protection elements—including barriers, encapsulated circuits, and battery modules—subject to adherence to installation guidelines per IEC 60079-14.
Is third-party validation support available for 21 CFR Part 11 compliance?
Yes—Sartorius offers IQ/OQ documentation packages and on-site validation engineering services aligned with ASTM E2500 and GAMP 5 principles for regulated end users.