RFD-2FTN-H UV/IR & Hydrogen Flame Detector – Product Overview

The RFD-2FTN-H flame detector represents a robust and high-performance solution for fire and explosion hazard zones. Engineered specifically for environments that require rapid flame detection — including those involving hydrogen and hydrocarbon-based fires — this device provides precise, responsive, and reliable flame detection in hazardous industrial settings. Equipped with advanced UV/IR sensor technology and built into a rugged aluminum housing, it meets stringent global safety and performance standards.

1. Advanced Detection Capabilities

The RFD-2FTN-H is a cutting-edge flame detector designed for fast and accurate detection of fires, including those caused by hydrogen gas and N-Heptane. This capability makes it especially suitable for petrochemical plants, hydrogen fuel storage, refineries, and other critical infrastructure facilities.

• Detection Range:
  The detector offers a wide and reliable detection range:
  • Up to 65.6 ft (20 meters) for N-Heptane fires.
  • Up to 49 ft (15 meters) for Hydrogen flames (with a 32” plume).
    These distances make it highly effective in open or semi-open industrial settings where rapid fire identification is essential.
• Field of View (FOV):
  With a horizontal FOV of 90° (H90°) and a vertical FOV of 90° (V90°), the RFD-2FTN-H can monitor a broad area, minimizing the need for multiple detectors and reducing overall installation costs.
• Response Time:
  One of the critical features of this flame detector is its rapid response time, typically within 15 seconds. This ensures quick alarm activation, giving personnel the crucial seconds they need to evacuate or address the hazard.

2. Robust Environmental Suitability

Designed for rugged industrial conditions, the RFD-2FTN-H ensures consistent performance under extreme environmental stress.

• Operating Temperature Range:
  The device operates effectively in a wide range of temperatures, from -40°C to +75°C, allowing it to function in both freezing and extremely hot environments.
• Humidity Tolerance:
  It supports up to 95% relative humidity, making it suitable for areas with high moisture content such as offshore platforms or humid production floors.
• Protection Ratings:
  The enclosure is certified with IP66 and IP67 ratings. This means it is both dust-tight and protected against heavy water jets and temporary submersion. These ratings ensure the flame detector can survive harsh weather, washdowns, and dusty environments without performance degradation.
• Weight & Build:
  At just 0.6 kg, this detector offers a compact and lightweight design. Its aluminum enclosure contributes to corrosion resistance and long-term durability in demanding environments.

3. Reliable Electrical and Output Specifications

Built to operate seamlessly within industrial control systems, the RFD-2FTN-H includes a robust electrical interface:

• Operating Voltage:
  It supports 24VDC with a wide input range of 17VDC to 30VDC, ensuring flexibility across a variety of installation setups.
• Power Consumption:
  The average consumption is only 70mA, with a maximum of 180mA, making it energy efficient and reducing the load on power supplies.
• Output Options:
  • Relay Outputs: For fire, fault, and warning alarms. These dry contact relays can be integrated with other alarm and safety systems.
  • 4–20mA Current Output: This industry-standard analog signal enables seamless integration with process control systems like PLCs and DCS systems.
  • RS-485 Communication: Featuring a proprietary protocol, this digital communication interface allows advanced diagnostics, remote configuration, and system monitoring.
• Conduit Entry Size:
  The device features 2 x ½ inch NPT conduit entries, providing versatile wiring and installation options to suit various regional standards and enclosure designs.

4. Certified for Use in Hazardous Areas

The RFD-2FTN-H is meticulously tested and approved to meet global flameproof and explosion-proof standards, allowing it to be deployed in some of the most dangerous industrial environments.

• ATEX Certification:
  The detector is certified under ATEX Presafe 17 ATEX 1786X, making it suitable for Zone 1 and Zone 2 hazardous locations. The marking includes:
  • Ex II2 GD, which signifies it is suitable for gas and dust environments.
  • Ex db IIC T6/T6 Gb, suitable for explosive gas atmospheres.
  • Ex tb IIIC T85°C/T95°C Db, for explosive dust atmospheres.
• FM3260 Certification:
  The detector also meets the FM3260 performance standard, which verifies its ability to detect a wide variety of fire types with high reliability and minimal false alarms.

These certifications provide peace of mind to safety engineers and procurement teams, ensuring compliance with international safety directives for explosive atmospheres.

5. Application Areas and Advantages

The RFD-2FTN-H is ideal for use in environments where both hydrogen and hydrocarbon fires are a risk. Typical applications include:

• Oil & Gas Facilities
• Chemical Plants
• Hydrogen Refueling Stations
• Pharmaceutical Production Units
• Power Generation Plants
• Battery Manufacturing Plants
• Warehouses storing flammable materials

Key Benefits:

• Dual-Spectrum Detection (UV/IR): Reduces false alarms by detecting actual flame signatures instead of smoke or heat only.
• Fast and Accurate: Enables immediate detection and response, reducing potential damage.
• Rugged and Compact: Easy to install in space-constrained and rough environments.
• Flexible Integration: Compatible with standard industrial control systems.
• Certified Safety: ATEX, IP66/IP67, and FM-approved — ideal for explosive zones.