BECKHOFF ELX1052 2-Channel Digital Input EtherCAT Terminal NAMUR Ex i

Product Overview

The ELX1052 (ELX1052) is a high-precision, 2-channel digital input terminal engineered specifically for hazardous area applications. Compliant with NAMUR (IEC 60947-5-6) specifications, this terminal provides intrinsically safe (Ex i) signal acquisition for proximity sensors and mechanical contacts located in explosive atmospheres. By facilitating the direct connection of field devices from Zone 0, 1, or 2, the ELX1052 eliminates the need for expensive external safety barriers. It is a critical component for process automation in chemical refineries, oil and gas extraction, and pharmaceutical manufacturing, where it ensures reliable signal processing while maintaining rigorous safety standards and reducing total system cost.

Technical Configuration

The ELX1052 operates as an EtherCAT terminal designed for 2-wire NAMUR sensors. It features sophisticated fault detection capabilities, including integrated monitoring for cable breaks (current below 200 µA) and short circuits (current above 6.3 mA). The module delivers an open circuit voltage of 8.2 VDC and utilizes a switching hysteresis of 200 µA to ensure precise state detection. To support its intrinsically safe operation, the electronics are powered via the 24 VDC power contacts, typically requiring the ELX9560 power supply for proper functionality. Its compact 12 mm wide housing allows for efficient high-density mounting on 35 mm DIN rails, maintaining full isolation and safety integrity even in crowded control cabinets.

Technical Specifications

FAQs

Is an external barrier required for this terminal in hazardous areas?

No, the ELX1052 features integrated intrinsically safe (Ex i) circuitry, which allows for the direct connection of field devices located in hazardous zones without external barriers.

How does the module distinguish between a sensor state and a wiring fault?

The terminal monitors the input current; valid signal states are clearly defined (≤ 1.2 mA for "0", ≥ 2.1 mA for "1"). Currents outside these ranges, specifically below 200 µA or above 6.3 mA, are automatically flagged as wiring faults.

What power supply is recommended for the ELX1052?

The module is designed to operate in conjunction with the ELX9560 power supply terminal, which ensures the necessary power contact configuration for safe and reliable operation.

Can this terminal be used with non-NAMUR sensors?

The input is optimized for NAMUR sensors. Using standard non-NAMUR sensors may require additional circuit analysis to ensure compliance with the intrinsically safe parameters and the defined switching thresholds.

Installation and Operational Guidelines

• Intrinsically Safe Wiring: Ensure strict physical separation between intrinsically safe (Ex i) wiring and non-intrinsically safe circuits within the control cabinet. Use blue-colored terminal blocks or cable labels to clearly identify Ex i signal paths as required by hazardous area installation standards.

• Termination Integrity: When connecting solid or flexible conductors, use a stripping length of 8 to 9 mm. Ensure that spring-loaded terminals are securely closed to prevent contact resistance, which can interfere with the precise current sensing required for NAMUR compliance.

• System Grounding: Proper grounding of the DIN rail and the backplane is essential to ensure EMC immunity in accordance with EN 61000-6-2/4. Given the hazardous area rating, ensure the installation complies with all local explosive atmosphere safety regulations regarding the shielding and grounding of field-side cables.