American Sensor Technologies, Inc. (AST)

is a US manufacturer of MEMS pressure sensors, pressure transducers and pressure transmitters.

Products   

 Hammer Union Pressure Transmitter for pressures up to 20,000 PSI.  Designed to operate in hazardous areas,  the AST4400 and AST4600 hammer unions are available for non-hazardous, intrinsically safe, and explosion proof areas as well as SIL2 designs.

The product was developed through the process of listening to customers and applying the latest sensor technology and material to the applications.  These intense applications cause sensors to drift and eventually fail in the field.  The sensor is hammered during install and hammered with pressure transient.  With this in mind, the AST hammer union pressure transmitter employs a thick Inconel™ 718 diaphragm and silicon strain gages to increase survivability and long term performance.  The transmitter is lab tested for high shock and vibration resistance, with testing up to 1000G. Further, AST field tested it onshore and offshore in the most extreme ambient conditions.

 

The modular design allows for simpler, faster, and lower cost replacement of the transmitter if a failure were to occur.  The cage around the pressure transmitter is designed to protect the sensor and mating connector, allows for proper drainage in flooding situations, and optional handle mounting (although the cage itself is easy to hold with a gloved hand).


Short term, you have a transmitter that will last longer with less drift.  Long term, you have a more cost-effective solution because you’ll repair less and pay less when you repair.


Contact us for shunt calibration options.

Battery Powered Pressure Transducers


The availability of power is limited in remote locations, yet the need for sensors in these areas is not!

In remote applications, the common choice for powering sensors and other instrumentation is battery power. Changing batteries is a costly operation in remote areas, so low power consumption is a key feature when selecting a pressure sensor. AST has released a new analog voltage output signal to be used with battery powered systems that consumes less than 3mA of current during operation.

This output is 0.5V to 2.5V full scale output, powered with 3-5V of unregulated power, including 3.3V lithium batteries.

This excitation range allows the use of these batteries without adding a DC-to-DC converter, which increases power budget efficiency.

In addition to low current consumption, AST’s sensors can be “pulsed” on when a reading is needed so there is no need to constantly power the sensor. In approximately 80msec, the pressure sensor can be powered, provide an output signal for data capture, and be de-energized, further enhancing battery life.


The output signal is now available on hazardous and non-hazardous location products, including submersible pressure-based level sensors.

ATEX / IECEx EX d IIC certifications added to AST46DS / AST54ED


American Sensor Technologies has completed certification of the AST46DS and AST54ED for ATEX and IECEx Ex d IIC flame proof requirements.

Each product offers a unique solution for the hazardous location market.  The AST46DS is designed with a voltage output signal with extremely low current consumption.  This design allows battery operated devices to last longer between battery maintenance or replacement is required.  It offers a local display of the output signal or pressure and "zero" function to correct for any zero offsets.  The AST46DS is available with 316L or Inconel 718 for corrosive liquids or gases, such as natural gas with hydrogen sulfide.


The AST54ED differential pressure transducer produces an analog output signal in a compact design for explosion proof environments.  Available with line pressures up to 5,000 PSI, the AST54ED will measure differential pressure across filters or orifice plates.  In North America, it has been designed to replace more expensive differential pressure transducers used in fairly basic applications.


SIL2 Rated Pressure Transmitters - 4-20mA Output


American Sensor Technologies, Inc. (AST) has received SIL2 certification for 4-20mA pressure transmitters with hazardous location ratings including explosion-proof, intrinsically safe and non-incendive areas. The SIL (Safety Integrity Level) certification was conducted through Exida and meets IEC 61508 standards.

The following products are available in SIL2 configurations:
AST4300, AST43LP, AST4400, AST4401, AST44LP, AST4500, AST4510, AST4520, AST4530, AST4600


The SIL process and rating simplify what systems use to predict failure and system maintenance. SIL2 devices were traditionally used in the downstream oil and gas and chemical process industry, but have seen greater importance in upstream applications to ensure safety and reliability requirements are met.


A suffix is added to the end of models requiring the certification. For standard hazardous location ratings and SIL2, the suffix will be "-SL;" example: AST4600A05000P4U1000-SL. If customers require SIL2 and ASME B31.3, the suffix will be "-Y."

AST Explosion-Proof / Non-Incendive Pressure Transmitters ATEX Certified

 

AST received ATEX certification for explosion proof pressure transmitters for Class I Zone 0 Exd hazardous locations. The Exd certification applies to the following products: AST4600, AST46HA, AST46PT, and AST46SW.  Additionally, the AST4300 and AST43LP are each certified by Sira for Class I Zone 2 Ex nA IIC T4 Gc.


The added approvals enhance the ability for equipment manufacturers to specify AST pressure transducers, as the sensors can now operate in both North America and Europe. AST's explosion proof transducers are commonly used in upstream and offshore applications where safety, reliability and performance are crucial.

The non-sparking, or non-incendive pressure transmitters are traditionally installed upstream wellhead applications and mid-stream equipment such as CNG compressors and pipeline equipment.  Both product lines remain some of the competitively priced products in the market, especially in applications requiring special materials such as Alloy 718 or Alloy C276.


Both product families cover pressures from 1 PSI up to 20,000 PSI.  Pressure transmitters can be ordered with compound pressure ranges for compressor applications or bi-directional pressures for vapor recovery systems.  While the ATEX certification will be a standard approval for all explosion proof products, the non-incendive products will initially be available with conduit and cable electrical connections and require the "-SS" or "-Z" at the end of the model code.


Differential Pressure Transducers for Class I Division 1 / 2 Hazardous Locations


American Sensor Technologies, Inc. (AST) has released explosion proof and non-incendive versions of its differential pressure transducer model AST5400. This addition compliments AST's other products in the hazardous location market. AST added CSA certifications for Class I Division 1 and Class I Division 2 to the product series in order to satisfy market demands for differential pressure measurement. The product is capable of measuring line pressures up to 5,000 PSI (350 bar), providing an output signal of analog voltage or 4-20mA. Bi-directional calibration is available. Sensor material options include 316L stainless steel, Inconel 718, and Hastelloy C276.


Industries include well sites and compression equipment. The AST5400 product family will give engineers the opportunity for lower cost, high performance measurement for applications such as monitoring filters or dryers, ensuring flow, or calculating torque. In certain applications the AST5400 can be offered with an additional temperature output signal or an additional line pressure output signal, to reduce the total number of devices and saving money and installation time.


American Sensor Technologies, Inc. (AST) has achieved IECex certification for its intrinsically safe and ATEX certified pressure transducers and transmitters. In an effort to offer a global solution, AST continues to add certifications to its portfolio. Their goal is to support customers abroad, as well as existing domestic customers shipping products internationally. The combination of AST's unique sensor technologies, sensor materials, and competitive pricing have opened new opportunities.


Certifications include:
IEC 60079-0 : 2011
IEC 60079-11 : 2011
Ex ia IIC T4 Ga, Tamb:-40°C to +80°C for AST 4401
Ex ia IIB T4 Ga, Tamb:-40°C to +80°C for AST 4400, AST 44LP, AST4500, AST4510, AST4520
Ex ia IIB T4 Ga, Tamb:-0°C to +60°C for AST4530


The pressure transducers and transmitters certified include:
AST4400 - Standard pressure transmitter from 0-1 bar to 1400 bar
AST44LP - Low pressure transmitter from 70 millibar to 1 bar
AST4401 - Standard pressure transmitter certified to Class I Zone 0 IIC
AST4500/4510 - Submersible level sensors
AST4520 - Submersible level sensor with flush diaphragm
AST4530 - Submersible level sensor from PVDF/PTFE for chemicals


Model numbers ending in -SS or -Z will include certification to North American, ATEX, and IEC standards; for the AST4530, the certification is standard.

ATEX Pressure Transducers and Transmitters - New from AST


American Sensor Technologies, Inc. (AST) has added ATEX certification to its intrinsically safe pressure transducers. In coordination with CSA and SIRA, AST has reached ATEX certification for Class I Zone 0 Exia IIB and IIC, T4 rated areas. Pressure transmitters are available from 0-1 PSI (68millibar) to 20,000 PSI (1400 bar). Pressure transducers are available for submersible and non-submersible applications including oil field SCADA systems, compressors, hydraulic systems, water management and more.


The certification allows AST to expand its support of oil and gas and alternative energy markets in Europe and the Middle East. With its leading sensing technology, various material options including 316L, Inconel Hastelloy C276, and PVDF, and competitive pricing, AST expects to continue its consistent growth and support of new customers.


Exia Class I Zone 0, IIC, T4
AST4401


Exia Class I, Zone 0, IIB, T4
AST4400, AST44LP, AST4500, AST4510, AST4520, AST4530


Models will require either the "-SS" or "-Z" at the end of the model number for the ATEX certified version.  Products will also carry CSA certification for North American markets to assist customers building systems for both markets.


AST4600 Explosionproof Pressure Transducer / Transmitter is CSA approved for use in hazardous areas including:

  • CSA 30 (UL1203/FM3615) Class 1 Zone 1
    Group IIC
  • CSA 30 Class 1 Div 1 Groups A, B, C, D Explosionproof
  • CSA 30 Class 2 Div 1 Groups E, F, G Dust Ignition-proof
Constructed with a simple-yet-rugged design, the factory-sealed AST4600 stands up to a variety of Explosionproof applications where price and performance are critical.

Available with voltage output signals, the AST4600 can be used for applications requiring low power consumption or packaged with a 4-20mA output signal for common integration into PLC's and controllers and long distance transmissions.

This pressure transducer features AST's Krystal Bond™ Technology, a one-piece stainless steel sensing element that provides high proof and burst pressure capability, long-term stability, and repeatable readings. The sensor is most commonly packaged with 316L Stainless steel to offer excellent media compatibility and comply to NACE MR0175 standards.


AST5400 differential pressure transducers can measure line pressures up to 5,000 PSI (350 bar) with a turn-down ratio of 15 to 1. Using Krystal Bond Technology, the AST5400 contains no silicone oil, O-rings, or welds. This MEMSMicro Electro-Mechanical System pressure sensor technology completely isolates the media to the pressure ports, thus eliminating contamination risk. The low strain level on the diaphragm results in accurate, repeatable measurements.

The AST5400 differential pressure transducer can be used to measure differential pressure across a filter, monitor level in a sealed or vented tank, or calculate flow across an orifice plate. With its digital compensation, the AST5400 series offers excellent linearity and performance over temperature.

The electronics offer a fail safe condition on the output signal. If the transducer were to experience a fault condition, the transducer can be programmed to rail the output signal to 10% below the minimum or 10% above maximum output signal to notify the user of an issue and protect the system from undesirable conditions.

The AST5400 also offers excellent flexibility in its configuration, allowing for a variety of wetted materials and pressure ports.

CSA Rated Non-Incendive Pressure Transmitter with Mini-Fast Electrical Connection

The AST4300 and AST43LP Class I Division 2 Non-Incendive pressure transmitters are now available with a Turck Mini-Fast electrical connection, eliminating conduit requirements from installation. In order to save installers time and cost of materials, the Mini-Fast electrical connection was integrated into the housing of the sensor making installation fast and simple. The pressure transmitter is installed in the process, the mating cable assembly is installed in the pressure transmitter, and a plastic lock out device is clipped over the electrical termination. With many cable length, material and connection options, customers have more flexibility to reduce the time to install or perform routine maintenance.

The AST4300 series is available with gauge and compound ranges from -14.7 to 20,000 PSI while the AST43LP pressure transmitter can measure low pressure and bi-directional pressures from 1 to 15 PSIG. The transmitter must be ordered with the "-SS" model option with CSA certification. Sensor material options include 17-4 PH, 316L, Inconel 718 and Hastelloy C276.

The AST5300 offers low differential pressure ranges in high line pressures (1500 PSI) with excellent burst pressure capabilities. The AST5300 has no oil filled cavities and no internal o-rings to fail; making it ideal for food and beverage, oil & gas, fluid power, pharmaceuticals, and semiconductor industries and cold ambients.

AST46DS explosion-proof pressure transducers features the latest advances in transducer technology. Capable of using a power supply as low as an 8VDC and low current consumption, the AST46DS pressure transducer can operate in remote areas with minimal power. The re-zeroing function, allows for field calibration in a safe environment to further enhance well site or system readings. Pressures are available up to 20,000 PSI; AST46DS pressure transducers and transmitters are designed for all common oil and gas pressures from shallow to deep wells.

  
  •  Ex-Proof: Class I & II Division 1
  • Groups A, B, C, D, E, F, G
  • Non-Incendive: Class I & II Division 2
    Groups A, B, C, D, E, F, G
  • Class III Division 1 & 2
  • ANSI/ISA 12.27.01-2003 Single Seal Approved