Energy harvesters provide external power to transmitters

The Rosemount 3051S wireless pressure transmitter is the first Emerson wireless transmitter capable of utilising this energy harvesting technology. Additional wireless Emerson transmitters will use this technology in the future. The vibration energy harvester power module developed by Perpetuum is designed to last over 100 years, significantly outlasting other battery-only powered systems. The electromagnetic-energy harvesters work by converting mechanical energy (vibration) to electrical energy via an oscillating mass (magnet), which traverses across a coil creating a varying amount of magnetic flux, inducing a voltage according to Faraday's law.

“Energy harvesting delivers significant economic benefits, not just from avoiding power module replacement costs, but also by eliminating unnecessary maintenance logistics and relieving skilled labor to concentrate on more essential plant operations,” said Bob Karschnia, Vice President of Smart Wireless Solutions, Emerson Process Management.

Perpetuum’s intelligent power module holds the same form, fit and operational capability as Emerson’s current smart power module, with the operational enhancement of enabling Emerson’s wireless transmitters to accept multiple forms of external power.

“We are pleased to offer Perpetuum’s energy harvesting solutions to Emerson,” said Steve Turley, CEO, Perpetuum. “We see this as an important step in the development of a truly ‘set and forget’ solution that will allow wireless networks to develop to their full potential.”

This energy harvesting solution is fully certified to FM (Class1 Div1, Groups A, B, C, D), as well as ATEX and IECEx (Zone 0). It is Intrinsically Safe and classified for use in hazardous areas, thereby reducing potential safety risks to plant personnel.