The FLIR Cx5 is a precision-engineered device designed to upgrade the FLIR C5 thermal imaging camera for safe use in potentially hazardous (explosive) areas, as defined by its certification. It essentially acts as a certified protective case for the FLIR C5 camera, allowing the camera to operate safely in environments where it would otherwise not be permitted.
Function Description:
The primary function of the FLIR Cx5 is to provide an explosion-proof enclosure for the FLIR C5 pocket thermal imaging camera. This enclosure ensures that the FLIR C5 can be safely used in classified hazardous areas without posing a risk of ignition. The case relies on its seals to prevent the entry of potentially explosive gas into the enclosure, maintaining a safe operating environment for the internal camera. The device is supplied with a FLIR C5 camera already installed in the certified FLIR Cx5 case, a restricted breathing test port, a USB plug, and a transport pouch.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Measurement Accuracy: The specification of the temperature measurement accuracy is only applicable when the FLIR C5 is correctly installed in the FLIR Cx5 case.
- Quality Assurance: The Quality Management Systems under which the FLIR C5 camera and the FLIR Cx5 case are developed and manufactured have been certified in accordance with ISO 9001, EN ISO/IEC 80079-34, and UKSI 2016:1107 Schedule 3A, Part 2 standards.
- Ex Compliance Marking: The device features a non-removable label with specific markings indicating its suitability for hazardous areas. These markings include:
- Manufacturer: RINO SOLUTIONS LTD, MILL GRANARY, MALTON, YO17 8JA, U.K.
- Certification Bodies: ExVeritas 21ATEX1124X, IECEX EXV 21.0064X, ExVeritas 21UKEX1161X
- Model: Cx5
- Environmental Ratings:
- II 3 G Ex nR IIC T4 Gc Ta -20°C to +40°C (for gas environments)
- II 3 D Ex tc IIIB T135°C Dc Ta -20°C to +40°C (for dust environments)
- Certifications: The FLIR Cx5 is certified under ATEX, IECEx, and UKCA (Ex) schemes, adhering to standards such as EN IEC 60079-0:2018, EN IEC 60079-15:2019, EN 60079-31:2014, IEC 60079-0:2017, IEC 60079-15:2017, and IEC 60079-31:2013.
- Tripod Mount: The case incorporates a centralized, bottom-mounted tripod boss with a standard UNC 1/4"-20 thread, allowing for stable mounting on a tripod.
- USB Port: The device features a USB-C port for charging and data transfer, accessible by removing a USB plug located on the edge of the case.
Usage Features:
- Safe Operation in Hazardous Areas: The primary feature is enabling the FLIR C5 camera to be used safely in potentially explosive gas and dust environments.
- Integrated Camera: The FLIR Cx5 is supplied with a FLIR C5 camera already installed, ensuring proper integration and certification compliance.
- USB Charging and Data Transfer: The FLIR Cx5 case is designed to accommodate the standard USB-C charge/download cable of the FLIR C5 camera. Users can access the USB-C port by removing a dedicated USB plug on the case edge, allowing for charging and data connection to a PC without removing the camera from the case. It is crucial not to remove the USB plug, connect to the camera, download data, or charge within the potentially hazardous area.
- Tripod Compatibility: The integrated tripod mount allows for stable, hands-free operation, which can be beneficial for long-term monitoring or precise positioning.
- Robust Design: The case is designed to protect the FLIR C5 camera from mechanical damage, although it is explicitly stated that the equipment should only be used where there is a low risk of such damage.
- User Manuals: Comprehensive online documentation is available for both the FLIR Cx5 and FLIR C5, covering operation, certifications, and other product information.
Maintenance Features:
- Seal Integrity: The integrity of the case seals is critical for maintaining its explosion-proof properties. These seals must be checked periodically and replaced if necessary.
- Restricted Breathing Test Port: For periodic checks of the restricted breathing properties, the FLIR Cx5 case includes a dedicated test port. This port is inserted in place of the USB plug and provides a barbed hose entry suitable for vacuum-capable hoses with an inside diameter of 5 mm. This allows for testing the enclosure's ability to prevent the ingress of explosive gases. It is important not to perform this test within a potentially hazardous area.
- Case Opening for Camera Installation/Removal: Should the camera need to be removed or reinstalled, the case can be opened using specific tools (H1.5 Hex bit screwdriver and H2.0 Hex bit screwdriver). The process involves removing four bolts securing corner shock absorbers, then eleven bolts securing the case halves. Reinstallation requires careful placement of the camera, re-seating shock absorbers, and tightening bolts in a specific sequence (finger-tight diametrically opposed, then shock absorber bolts).
- Safety Critical Maintenance: For safety-critical maintenance, users are directed to refer to EN60079-14 and EN60079-17 standards, emphasizing the importance of qualified personnel for such tasks.
- Cleaning: Prior to installing the FLIR C5 camera, it is essential to ensure that the touchscreen, lens, and window of the camera are clean and free from dust and dirt, as cleaning will not be possible once the camera is installed in the case.
- Warning on Tampering: The FLIR Cx5 certification is void if the unit is tampered with or if the FLIR C5 is not correctly installed in the FLIR Cx5 case, highlighting the importance of following installation instructions carefully.
- Warning on Disassembly/Recharge: Users are explicitly warned not to disassemble or recharge the device in a hazardous area. Frequent removal of the camera from the case for charging is also discouraged as it may damage the case seals.
- Unit Safety Check: If there are any grounds to believe the unit is no longer safe to use, it must be removed from service and measures taken to prevent its further unintentional use.
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