What is EN 61779:2012?

Introduction

EN 61779:2012, formally known as IEC 61779:2012, is an international standard that provides guidelines and requirements for industrial process control systems. This standard plays a vital role in ensuring the accuracy, reliability, and safety of measuring instruments used in various industries. In this article, we will delve into the details of EN 61779:2012 and its significance in the field of industrial instrumentation.

Scope and Purpose

The scope of EN 61779:2012 encompasses various aspects related to the performance and testing of industrial process control devices. It provides manufacturers, users, and testing laboratories with specific guidelines to follow during the design, production, installation, and operation of these devices. The primary purpose of this standard is to establish consistency and accuracy in measurements, thereby ensuring the quality and reliability of process control systems.

Key Requirements

To comply with EN 61779:2012, measuring instruments must meet certain key requirements. These requirements include accuracy, stability, repeatability, and resolution. Accuracy refers to the closeness of measured values to the true value being measured. Stability ensures that the instrument's output remains consistent over time. Repeatability indicates the instrument's ability to produce the same output when repeatedly measuring the same quantity under identical conditions. Resolution defines the smallest change in input quantity that can be detected by the instrument.

Testing and Certification

EN 61779:2012 lays down procedures for testing and certification of measuring instruments to ensure their compliance with the standard. Accredited testing laboratories conduct rigorous tests on these instruments to evaluate their performance against the specified requirements. Upon successful completion of the testing process, the instruments are awarded certification, indicating their adherence to EN 61779:2012. This certification gives users confidence in the accuracy and reliability of the instruments they employ in industrial settings.

Importance of EN 61779:2012

The implementation of EN 61779:2012 brings several benefits to industries relying on process control systems. First and foremost, it ensures that measurements are accurate and reliable, leading to improved product quality and reduced wastage. Consistent adherence to the standard also facilitates comparability of results obtained from different measuring instruments across various industries. This, in turn, promotes collaboration and standardization within the field of industrial instrumentation.

Furthermore, compliance with EN 61779:2012 helps organizations meet legal and regulatory requirements related to measurement and control. It provides a framework for manufacturers to produce instruments of proven quality and reliability, which gives them a competitive edge in the market. The standard also enhances customer confidence by assuring them of accurate and trustworthy measurements, thereby building long-term relationships and customer loyalty.

In conclusion, EN 61779:2012 is a crucial international standard that governs the design, production, and usage of measuring instruments in industrial process control systems. Its guidelines and requirements ensure the accuracy, reliability, and safety of these instruments, benefiting both manufacturers and users. Compliance with EN 61779:2012 not only assures high-quality measurements but also promotes standardization and collaboration within the industry.