Introduction to the Pepperl+Fuchs K-LB-1.6G Surge Barrier

The K-LB-1.6G from Pepperl+Fuchs belongs to the K-System family of protection devices. This 1-channel surge protection barrier mounts directly on standard DIN rails. When protecting both field and control circuit inputs, engineers consistently rely on the K-LB-1.6G. It works effectively for intrinsic safety (IS) and non-IS applications alike. Furthermore, the auto-reset feature ensures uninterrupted operation after each surge event. In addition to these benefits, the barrier handles maximum surge currents up to 20 kA for truly robust protection.

Functional Overview

This surge protection barrier limits induced transients from various electrical sources. Typical sources include lightning strikes and switching impulses from large inductive loads. During transient events, the module diverts surge current safely to ground. At the same time, it limits signal line voltage to safe levels throughout the disturbance. The K-LB-1.6G provides low line-to-line and line-to-ground clamping voltage as a result. Consequently, protected instruments remain completely safe during even severe electrical disturbances.

Target Applications

This barrier protects instruments with less than 500V isolation-to-ground capability. Examples include Zener barriers and standard I/O cards found in many control systems. Many field instruments also benefit from this protection scheme. Therefore, the K-LB-1.6G suits a wide range of industrial control applications. It proves particularly valuable in facilities prone to lightning strikes or switching transients. For this reason, petrochemical and power generation plants commonly specify this device.

Supply and Connection Details

The connection scheme separates protected and unprotected areas clearly on the module. For the protected area, simply use terminals 7 and 8. For the unprotected area, use terminals 1 and 2 instead. Rated voltage Un stays at ≤ 6 V for safe operation of the K-LB-1.6G. Similarly, rated current In remains ≤ 250 mA per channel for broad compatibility. Leakage current measures only ≤ 5 µA, which minimizes any signal impact. Meanwhile, on-state voltage reaches ≤ 12 V during normal operation without issue.

Surge Protection Specifications

Nominal discharge current (8/20 waveform) reaches 10 kA per core for this barrier. For ten repeated surges, 5 kA per core remains fully supported. Maximum surge current (8/20) Imax reaches 20 kA per core for single events. For a single surge, 10 kA per core is the supported maximum rating. After each and every surge, the K-LB-1.6G recovers automatically without any intervention. Thus, maintenance-free operation is assured throughout the entire life of the installation.

Response Time and Bandwidth

Nominal response time varies depending on the type of surge encountered. For symmetrical surges, response time is an extremely fast 1 ns. For asymmetric surges, response time reaches only 100 ns maximum. These ultra-fast response times protect sensitive electronics effectively from damage. Series resistance stays ≤ 0.3 Ω per conductor, which minimizes any signal loss. Bandwidth reaches ≥ 40 kHz for compatible signal frequencies without degradation. Therefore, the K-LB-1.6G does not degrade normal process signals in any measurable way.

Mechanical Specifications

Degree of protection is rated at IP20 for indoor panel mounting applications. Mass measures approximately 100 g for this compact protection module. Dimensions are 12.5 mm wide by 114 mm high by 110 mm deep. In imperial units, this equals 0.5 x 4.5 x 4.3 inches. The slim 12.5 mm width saves valuable DIN rail space in crowded cabinets. As a result, multiple K-LB-1.6G units fit comfortably in a small panel area.

Ambient Conditions

Ambient temperature range spans -30°C to 80°C (-22°F to 176°F) for general use. However, Ex applications require observing the EC-Type Examination Certificate carefully. Temperature class varies with ambient temperature conditions as follows. For T6 rating, ambient temperature must stay ≤ 50°C max. For T5 rating, ambient temperature must stay ≤ 70°C. Finally, for T4 rating, ambient temperature may reach 80°C maximum. Therefore, select the appropriate temperature class for your specific environment.

Ex-Approval Details

The K-LB-1.6G carries EC-Type Examination Certificate PTB 00 ATEX 2176X for Europe. Group, category, and type of protection are II 2(1)G Ex ia IIC T6. This certification permits installation in hazardous gas atmospheres with complete confidence. Safety parameters include Ui ≤ 6 V and Ii ≤ 250 mA as maximum allowable values. The X suffix indicates special conditions exist for safe use. For additional certificates, please refer to www.pepperl-fuchs.com for the latest documentation.

Directive and Standard Compliance

Directive 94/9/EC (ATEX) compliance is confirmed for this surge barrier product. Standards include EN 60079-0:2012+A11:2013 for general safety requirements. EN 60079-11:2012 covers intrinsic safety “ia” protection specifically. Degree of protection follows IEC 60529 specifications as well. Therefore, the K-LB-1.6G meets rigorous European safety standards without any exception.

International Approvals

CSA approval is documented under control drawing 116-0187 (cCSAus) for North America. This certification covers hazardous location installations fully. IECEx approval is granted under IECEx BAS 14.0010X for international use. This certification enables global deployment of the K-LB-1.6G across many countries. Nevertheless, always verify local regulations before installation in hazardous areas.

Installation Requirements

Surge Protection Barriers must connect to a solid and effective ground system. The barrier must share the same equipotential level as the protected instrument. In addition to grounding, the ground system must comply with all applicable regulations. Failure to follow these requirements may compromise protection significantly. Therefore, consult the manual and www.pepperl-fuchs.com for detailed guidance on the K-LB-1.6G. Proper grounding is absolutely essential for correct operation of this device.

Installation Guidelines

Follow these steps to install the K-LB-1.6G correctly for optimal performance.

1. De-energize the Circuit: Ensure all connected circuits are powered down first. Then lock out power sources for safety during the entire installation.

2. Mount the Barrier: Snap the K-LB-1.6G onto a standard 35 mm DIN rail. After that, ensure the module clicks firmly into place.

3. Connect Ground: Wire a solid ground connection to the grounding terminal. Use the shortest possible ground lead for best performance.

4. Connect Field Side (Unprotected): Wire the field signal to terminals 1 and 2. These terminals face the unprotected area of the circuit.

5. Connect Control Side (Protected): Wire the instrument signal to terminals 7 and 8. Then verify correct polarity for the K-LB-1.6G.

6. Verify Equipotential Bonding: Ensure the barrier ground and instrument ground are bonded together. This prevents dangerous voltage differences during surge events.

7. Power Up: Apply power to the circuit and verify normal operation. The K-LB-1.6G requires no configuration or ongoing maintenance afterwards.

Package Contents

Your K-LB-1.6G shipment includes the following items:

• One Pepperl+Fuchs K-LB-1.6G surge protection barrier

• One installation instruction sheet

• One anti-static protective bag

Common FAQs

1. Does the K-LB-1.6G require replacement after a surge event?
No, the K-LB-1.6G features auto-reset operation after each surge. It does not require replacement or any maintenance after normal surge events.

2. Can I use this barrier for 4-20 mA loop protection?
Yes, the K-LB-1.6G works perfectly with 4-20 mA loops. However, verify that loop voltage stays within the 6V rated limit for safe operation.

3. What is the difference between symmetrical and asymmetric response time?
Symmetrical surges affect both lines equally, giving 1 ns response. Asymmetric surges affect only one line, giving 100 ns response for the K-LB-1.6G.

4. Is this barrier suitable for Zone 0 hazardous areas?
Yes, the Ex ia IIC T6 approval permits Zone 0 installation. The K-LB-1.6G meets the requirements for the most hazardous gas environments.

5. Why must the barrier and instrument share equipotential ground?
Different ground potentials can create dangerous voltage differences between equipment. The K-LB-1.6G requires equipotential bonding for proper surge protection.

Conclusion

The Pepperl+Fuchs K-LB-1.6G delivers reliable surge protection for 6V circuits. Its 1-channel design suits DIN rail mounting in standard control cabinets. Maximum 20 kA surge current capability handles even severe lightning events. ATEX and IECEx approvals permit hazardous area installations worldwide. For robust transient protection of sensitive instruments, choose the K-LB-1.6G surge protection barrier.