Monroe Electronics Electrostatic Fieldmeter - Static Monitor - model 177A - Manual (Page 4)

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Section 1
GENERAL
Monroe Electronics’ Multi-Point Fieldmeter and Alarm System, Model 177A measures electrostatic
fields (potential gradient) in terms of voltage per unit distance. Using probe-to-surface separation as
a calibration factor enables use of this instrument for measurement of surface voltage as well.
As with other models of Monroe Electronics’ electrostatic fieldmeters, the Model 177A’s primary
application is measurement and monitoring of electrostatic charge accumulation. As a charge
increases on the surface of a material, the electrostatic field in the vicinity increases proportionately.
The Model 177A Multi-Point Fieldmeter and Alarm System produces a reliable output signal directly
proportional to the surface charge accumulation while making NO PHYSICAL CONTACT with the
material being monitored.
The Monroe Electronics Model 177A is an intrinsically safe system, using FM-listed Monroe
Electronics Model 1036 sensors, which continuously monitor the critical points in your facility to
detect and warn of electrostatic charge buildup before it becomes a problem. In a typical alarm-
activated or PLC-connected setup, as static levels in your application surpass a preset value, beyond
which there may be a danger to personnel or possible disruption or destruction to the process or
product, an initial warning is triggered and the process is allowed to continue. If the problem is
rectified, the “warning” returns to a “normal” state. If the condition persists and the static level
exceeds a second, more crucial value, an alarm is activated. This second-level alarm can be used to
shut down the process until it is brought under control, or to further warn the operator of the more
serious condition.
Each Model 177A will monitor up to four locations using Monroe Model 1036 sensors placed at
distances up to 1000 feet from the instrument. Processes can be continuously monitored and
recorder outputs may be utilized for long term, drift free data acquisition. Cascading of up to 32 units
via RS485 permits monitoring of up to 128 sensor locations using a PC and the supplied software.
Factory Mutual Research Corp. approves the Model 1036 probes for use in Class I, Division 1,
Groups C and D hazardous locations. To comply, approved intrinsic safety (IS) barriers must be
used with the Model 1036. Reference FM Standard Class Number 3610:January 2000
This document provides the user, for hazardous and non-hazardous areas, with operational
instructions for Monroe Model 1036 sensors and the corresponding Model 177A Fieldmeter/Alarm
System.