Sartorius FC12EDE-PX Intrinsically Safe Explosion-Proof Floor Scale

Overview

The Sartorius FC12EDE-PX is an intrinsically safe, explosion-proof floor scale engineered for high-precision weighing in hazardous environments classified under Zone 1, Division 1, and ATEX Category 2G. Designed and manufactured in Germany, this 12 kg capacity scale operates with dual readability options—0.1 g and 0.2 g—enabling reliable mass determination for process control, quality assurance, and formulation tasks where ignition sources must be rigorously eliminated. Its intrinsic safety architecture complies fully with IEC 60079-11 and EN 60079-0 standards, ensuring that all electrical circuits—including display, load cell interface, and internal logic—are energy-limited to prevent spark or thermal ignition in flammable atmospheres containing gases, vapors, or dusts (Groups IIA, IIB, IIC; T4 temperature class). The FC12EDE-PX integrates a robust stainless-steel load cell system and precision-machined aluminum housing rated IP65 for resistance to dust ingress and water splashing, supporting continuous operation in demanding industrial settings such as chemical synthesis, pharmaceutical API handling, solvent-based coating lines, and bulk powder blending.

Key Features

• Intrinsically safe design certified for Zone 1 (ATEX), Class I Division 1 (FM/CSA), and Group IIC gas environments with T4 temperature rating.
• Dual-range readability: 0.1 g (6 kg range) and 0.2 g (12 kg range), optimized for both fine-dose verification and intermediate-batch weighing.
• Modular power architecture: supports 24 V DC industrial power supply (for installation in safe or hazardous zones), universal AC input (100–120 V / 220–240 V), and rechargeable battery operation compliant with IEC 60079-18 for Zones 1, 20, and 21.
• Integrated isoTEST function: one-button activation of full internal calibration using factory-traceable built-in weights, eliminating manual intervention and reducing calibration downtime.
• Backlit graphical LCD display with intuitive English-language prompts, dot-matrix character rendering, and real-time status icons for overload, stability, and battery level.
• Standard RS232C serial interface with configurable baud rates (up to 115.2 kbps), supporting bidirectional communication with LIMS, MES, or PLC systems under deterministic timing protocols.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The FC12EDE-PX accommodates containers, drums, tote bins, and reaction vessels up to 400 × 300 mm footprint on its reinforced weighing pan (122 mm height clearance). Its mechanical design permits stable placement of irregularly shaped or vibration-sensitive loads common in pilot-scale reactors and dispensing stations. All models meet legal metrological requirements per OIML R76-1 (2021), NTEP Certificate of Conformance (Class III), and EU Measuring Instruments Directive (MID 2014/32/EU). Traceability is maintained through Sartorius’ ISO/IEC 17025-accredited calibration laboratory, with optional delivery of uncertainty budgets and as-found/as-left calibration reports. For regulated industries, the device supports audit-ready documentation workflows when paired with SartoPac Basic software, enabling GLP-compliant record retention including operator ID, timestamped weight events, and calibration history.

Software & Data Management

Data acquisition and process integration are enabled via two validated software platforms: SartoPac Basic provides local PC-based configuration, data logging (CSV/TXT export), and report generation with customizable templates for batch records or SOP adherence. The Average Weight Control Terminal Software adds statistical process control (SPC) functionality—including X-bar/R charting, tolerance band visualization, and real-time deviation alerts—aligned with ISO 2859-1 sampling plans and USP <41> uniformity of dosage units requirements. All communications adhere to RS232 ASCII protocol with hardware handshaking (RTS/CTS), ensuring deterministic packet delivery in electrically noisy plant environments. Firmware updates are performed via secure USB-to-serial adapter with digital signature verification, preserving integrity during regulatory audits.

Applications

• Pharmaceutical manufacturing: raw material receipt verification, active ingredient dispensing, and in-process blend uniformity checks in classified cleanrooms or solvent-handling suites.
• Chemical production: catalyst dosing, reagent batching, and drum-filling control in Zone 1 facilities processing ethylene, hydrogen, or acetone.
• Food & beverage: seasoning mix formulation and allergen-controlled ingredient addition in ATEX-certified dry blending areas.
• Petrochemical QA labs: calibration mass verification, sample container tare management, and density reference weighing under Class I Division 1 conditions.
• Contract manufacturing organizations (CMOs): multi-client environment compliance with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 electronic record controls when used with validated SartoPac configurations.

FAQ

Is the FC12EDE-PX suitable for use in Zone 20 dust environments?
Yes—the integrated rechargeable battery option is certified for Zone 20 (combustible dust) per IEC 60079-31 and EN 60079-31, provided ambient temperature remains within 0–40 °C and enclosure integrity is maintained.
Does the scale support automatic tare reset during continuous weighing operations?
Yes—tare memory is retained across power cycles, and programmable auto-tare triggers can be configured via RS232 command set for repeatable container-based workflows.
Can the isoTEST calibration be scheduled automatically?
No—isoTEST is manually initiated via front-panel keypress to comply with ISO/IEC 17025 requirement for operator-controlled calibration events; however, external PLC signals may trigger the function via optional digital I/O module.
What is the maximum cable length supported for RS232 communication in hazardous areas?
Up to 15 meters with shielded twisted-pair cabling meeting IEC 60079-14 Annex D guidelines; longer runs require fiber-optic isolation or intrinsically safe repeaters.
Is firmware upgrade capability available in hazardous locations?
Firmware updates must be performed outside the hazardous area using a certified programming station; no field-upgrade functionality is permitted within Zone 1 or Division 1 boundaries per ATEX Notified Body requirements.