MSA introduced the General Monitors FL500 UV/IR Flame Detector which is designed to offer protection to safeguard people, equipment and facilities.
The FL500 optical flame detector is FM performance approved for six different fuel sources: butane, ethane, heptane, methane, methanol and propane. 
By combining an ultraviolet (UV) sensor for response with an infrared (IR) sensor that monitors flame-emitted radiation, the FL500 flame detector operates with false alarm immunity to provide monitoring.
The FL500 detector offers a field of view up to 130° for protection. It features three external LED indicators for local verification by technicians of normal operation, fault conditions and alarms. On-board relays provide detector status communications with automated plant safety and control systems via HART, Modbus, 4-20 mA sink or source communications.
Designed with continuous optical path monitoring (COPM), the FL500 flame detector conducts its own self-check every two minutes. These optical and electrical self-check diagnostic routines ensure the sensor’s optical path is clear and that the detector’s sophisticated electronic circuitry is operational.
The FL500 detector also can be tested with the explosion proof TL105 Test Lamp, which simulates the flickering of a fire and provides a high-energy, broadband radiation source that emits energy in both the ultraviolet and infrared spectra to safely activate the flame sensors. The TL105 Test Lamp allows the detector to be tested under real fire conditions without the associated risk of an open flame.
The FL500 UV/IR flame detector’s 316 stainless steel housing measures 4.5-inches (114 mm) in diameter by 5.5-inches (140 mm) in length and weighs 9 pounds (4.0 kg).
The FL500 provides fire safety monitoring in the demanding environments. The operating temperature range is: -67°F (-55°C) to 185°F (85°C) with a relative humidity range of 0 to 95% RH, non-condensing.
In addition to FM performance approval, other global approvals include: CSA, ATEX, IECEx, EN 54-10 and CE Marking.
For more information, visit MSA website.