E&H 6I3B thermal mass flowmeter

E&H 6I3B thermal mass flowmeter

Proline t-mass I 300 Thermal Mass Flowmeter – Model Series 6I3B

Insertion Thermal Gas Flowmeter with Long-Term Stability for Large Pipes (DN 80–1500)

1. Product Overview

The Endress+Hauser Proline t-mass I 300 (order code root 6I3B) is a high-performance insertion thermal mass flowmeter engineered for direct mass measurement of utility gases, process gases and gas mixtures in large circular pipes and rectangular ducts. Where conventional inline flowmeters become impractical or prohibitively expensive for large nominal diameters, the 6I3B series delivers uncompromised measurement accuracy with an insertion probe design that drastically reduces installation complexity and capital expenditure.

The patented sensor architecture of the t-mass I platform provides industry-leading measurement stability in thermal insertion mass flow applications. Real-time compensation for fluctuating process conditions — including temperature excursions, pressure transients, flow direction reversals, and gas composition variations — ensures consistent, reliable readings across the entire measurement envelope. The compact dual-compartment transmitter offers maximum flexibility in terms of operation and system integration: single-side access for wiring and configuration, optional remote display, freely configurable I/O functionality, and diverse system integration pathways-9.

Each 6I3B-series flowmeter is equipped with Heartbeat Technology — an integrated verification and diagnostic suite that continuously validates measurement integrity and generates compliant audit documentation without process interruption. This feature significantly reduces maintenance costs and downtime while supporting regulatory compliance requirements.

Distributor: ST-YUKE CO., LIMITED — Authorized supplier of genuine Endress+Hauser instrumentation with global shipping capabilities and comprehensive technical support.

2. Technical Specifications at a Glance

*Specifications derived from Technical Information document TI01501D/06/EN.*

3. Insertion Advantage: Why Choose the I 300 Series

Unlike inline thermal mass flowmeters that require the entire pipe section to be cut and fitted with a spool piece, the insertion design of the 6I3B series delivers several critical benefits for large-diameter gas measurement:

Significant Cost Reduction — For pipelines larger than DN 80 (3 inches), the cost of an inline meter grows exponentially with pipe diameter due to the larger measuring tube and flanged connections. The 6I3B insertion probe requires only a small threaded process connection, drastically lowering material costs for DN 150–1500 applications.

Minimal Process Interruption — The insertion assembly can be installed through a hot-tap fitting without shutting down the pipeline, enabling retrofitting of flow measurement to existing gas distribution networks with zero production downtime.

Versatile Duct Installation — Unlike inline meters that require circular pipe sections, the 6I3B probe can be installed in rectangular ducts — a critical capability for HVAC airflow monitoring, combustion air measurement, and large-scale ventilation systems where traditional inline meters simply cannot be applied.

Scalable Measurement — A single 6I3B hardware platform serves all pipeline sizes from DN 80 through DN 1500, simplifying inventory management and reducing spare parts requirements for facilities with diverse pipe diameters.

4. Four Insertion Depth Variants — Complete Lineup of the 6I3B Series

The 6I3B series spans four distinct insertion depth configurations, each engineered for specific pipe diameter ranges. All variants share identical transmitter electronics, sensor technology, and communication capabilities — only the probe length and process coupling design differ.

4.1 Model 6I3BL1 — Standard Insertion Depth

The 6I3BL1 variant is the standard insertion configuration suitable for circular pipes from DN 80 to approximately DN 200 (3 to 8 inches). The probe length ensures that the sensing element reaches the optimum measurement position near the pipe centerline, where flow velocity profile is most stable and representative of average mass flow. Example order code: 6I3BL1-BBEBAAAAAAHAGA1ABKA2 (decoded in detail below).

Typical applications: Compressed air mains, nitrogen distribution lines, medium-sized gas headers, and utility gas monitoring in chemical plants.

4.2 Model 6I3BL2 — Extended Insertion Depth

The 6I3BL2 configuration extends the insertion probe length to accommodate pipe diameters from DN 200 to approximately DN 500 (8 to 20 inches). The longer probe ensures proper flow engagement in larger bore pipes where a standard probe would fail to reach the turbulent flow core. This variant is particularly prominent in power generation facilities, large-scale industrial boiler plants, and central compressed air systems.

4.3 Model 6I3BL3 — Deep Insertion Depth

Engineered for large-diameter pipelines from DN 500 to DN 1000 (20 to 40 inches), the 6I3BL3 variant features a reinforced insertion tube design that maintains mechanical rigidity while achieving the necessary insertion depth. This configuration is frequently specified for main natural gas intake lines, flare gas headers, and large-scale process air handling systems. Example configuration: 6I3BL3-CSIBAAAFADSANA1AAGA2+.

4.4 Model 6I3BL4 — Maximum Insertion Depth

At the top of the range, 6I3BL4 delivers the longest insertion probe for pipes from DN 1000 to DN 1500 (40 to 60 inches) and for rectangular ducts of equivalent hydraulic diameter. The extended probe incorporates additional mechanical support features to withstand process flow-induced vibration while maintaining measurement accuracy. This variant is the ultimate solution for very large gas distribution networks, tunnel ventilation systems, and industrial ductwork applications where no other thermal mass flowmeter solution can be economically deployed.

5. Order Code Breakdown: 6I3BL1-BBEBAAAAAAHAGA1ABKA2

To facilitate precise device configuration, specification verification, and procurement, each 6I3B-series flowmeter carries a comprehensive order code that encodes every built-in feature. The following analysis decodes the complete order code structure using the example 6I3BL1-BBEBAAAAAAHAGA1ABKA2:

Root Code: 6I3BL1

6I3B = Proline t-mass I 300 series product family

L1 = Insertion depth variant L1 (DN 80–200 / 3–8 inches)

Feature Breakdown (Sequential positions after hyphen):

This order code breakdown follows the Endress+Hauser product configuration schema. For verification of any existing device or to build a custom configuration, the order code can be entered into the Endress+Hauser Device Viewer (www.endress.com/deviceviewer) to retrieve complete specification details.

Additional example order codes in the field:

6I3BL1-CSIBAAAFADSANA1AAGA2+ — L1 variant with flameproof enclosure, 4–20mA+HART

6I3BL2-BDDBAEAFABSANA2AAKA2+JA — L2 variant, ATEX/IECEx certified, 4–20mA HART, NAMUR

6I3BL4-AAIBAEAFAASANA1AAGA2+ — L4 variant for maximum insertion depth, bidirectional sensor

6. Measuring Principle and Gas Engine Technology

The thermal mass flow measurement principle employed by the 6I3B series is based on the cooling effect of a flowing gas stream passing over a heated resistance thermometer. Two PT100 sensors reside within the insertion probe: one serves as a temperature reference monitoring the actual process temperature, while the other is maintained at a constant differential temperature above the process temperature by controlled heating current. As gas mass flow increases, more heat is extracted from the heated sensor, requiring greater electrical current to maintain the temperature differential. This heating current is directly proportional to the mass flow rate.

The integrated Gas Engine software database, pre-loaded into every 6I3B unit, contains specific thermodynamic properties for 21 standard gases including air, nitrogen, oxygen, hydrogen, carbon dioxide, methane, propane, butane, argon, helium, and others-9. The Gas Engine enables:

Air-based factory calibration — eliminating expensive real-gas calibration requirements

Precise conversion from air to any target gas without recalibration

Dynamic pressure and temperature compensation during operation

Calculation of gas mixture properties based on up to 8 component percentages

Supported gases include: Air, Nitrogen (N₂), Oxygen (O₂), Hydrogen (H₂), Carbon Dioxide (CO₂), Methane (CH₄), Propane (C₃H₈), Butane (C₄H₁₀), Ethane (C₂H₆), Ethylene (C₂H₄), Argon (Ar), Helium (He), Ammonia (NH₃), Carbon Monoxide (CO), Hydrogen Sulfide (H₂S), Chlorine (Cl₂), Hydrogen Chloride (HCl), Krypton (Kr), Neon (Ne), Ozone (O₃), and Xenon (Xe).

7. Wetted Materials and Process Connections

The 6I3B series employs corrosion-resistant materials suitable for a wide range of industrial gas applications:

Material specifications derived from Technical Information document-1-2.

Process connection standards available:

Threaded connections: NPT ½ inch to 1 inch (standard); BSPT R½ to R1

Compression fitting with process coupling for insertion through ball valve

Rectangular duct installation: For rectangular duct applications, the insertion probe is installed through the duct wall with appropriate sealing arrangements. Multiple probe installations may be required for ducts larger than 1 meter in hydraulic diameter to account for non-uniform flow profiles.

8. Heartbeat Technology and Integrated Verification

Heartbeat Technology is a cornerstone feature of the 6I3B series, providing three integrated functions:

Heartbeat Monitoring — Continuously monitors the device‘s internal health status, tracking sensor drift, electronics integrity, and communication stability. Alerts are generated when predefined thresholds are exceeded, enabling predictive maintenance before failure occurs.

Heartbeat Verification — On-demand verification of measurement accuracy without process interruption. The device executes a self-diagnostic routine and generates a compliance report suitable for audit requirements. No external reference devices or process shutdowns are required. Heartbeat Technology ensures measurement reliability and compliant verification-1.

Heartbeat Extended Verification — Available as an application package, this extends verification capabilities to include sensor characterization validation and gas property verification, providing the highest level of measurement confidence for critical applications.

This technology significantly reduces the total cost of ownership by eliminating routine calibration removal and external verification expenses while maintaining full regulatory compliance documentation.

9. Key Advantages and Differentiating Features

Patented Drift-Free Sensor with SIL 2 — Unlike conventional thermal mass sensors that experience baseline drift over time, the t-mass I sensor architecture maintains measurement stability throughout the device lifespan. The drift-free design carries SIL 2 functional safety certification for safety-instrumented system applications-9.

21 Standard Gas Database — Flexible, convenient programming based on 21 standard gases or freely definable gas mixtures thereof. Users can select from pre-loaded gas properties or define custom mixtures with up to 8 component percentages-9.

Bidirectional Measurement — The 6I3B platform supports full bidirectional flow measurement with reverse flow detection, providing accurate totalization regardless of flow direction. This capability is essential for flare gas recovery systems, ventilation networks with reversing flows, and batch process applications.

High Level of Process Control — Premium measurement accuracy and repeatability enable precise gas flow management, reducing waste and optimizing energy consumption in compressed air and natural gas systems-9.

Reliable Monitoring — Detection of process disturbances and reverse flow ensures operators are immediately alerted to abnormal conditions, preventing costly production interruptions and equipment damage-9.

Flexible Installation — Suitable for large dimensional range and circular pipes or rectangular ducts. The insertion design accommodates any pipe size above DN 80 without requiring custom meter spools or long lead times-9.

Full Access to Process and Diagnostic Information — Numerous, freely combinable I/Os and fieldbuses provide complete visibility into measurement performance and device health from any connected control system-9.

Reduced Complexity and Variety — Freely configurable I/O functionality means a single hardware platform can be adapted to any application requirement, simplifying inventory management and reducing spare parts costs-9.

10. Installation and Operational Requirements

To ensure optimal measurement performance, the following installation guidelines should be observed:

Insertion Depth — The sensing element must be positioned at the pipe centerline for circular pipes or at the appropriate flow measurement position for rectangular ducts. The four L1–L4 variants are pre-sized to achieve correct insertion depth for specific pipe diameter ranges.

Insertion Orientation — For horizontal pipes, the probe should be inserted from the side (horizontal insertion) or from the top to avoid liquid accumulation on the sensing element. Vertical insertion from the bottom is not recommended for gas applications where condensate may be present.

Straight Run Requirements — A minimum of 5 × pipe diameter upstream straight run and 3 × diameter downstream straight run is recommended. For installations with bends, reducers, or valves immediately upstream, longer straight runs (10 × diameter) are advised.

Hot-Tap Installation — The 6I3B series supports hot-tap installation through a ball valve assembly, enabling insertion and retraction without process shutdown. This capability is particularly valuable for natural gas distribution networks and other critical gas systems where downtime is unacceptable.

Environmental Conditions — The compact transmitter housing (IP66/67) is suitable for outdoor installation. The operating ambient temperature range is –40 °C to +60 °C (–40 °F to +140 °F).

Electrical Connections — Standard M20 × 1.5 cable gland entries accommodate signal and power cabling. HART communication requires a minimum load resistance of 250 Ω between device and power supply. For Modbus RS485 variants, proper termination resistors and shielded twisted-pair cabling are required.

11. Supported Communication Protocols and I/O Configurations

The 6I3B transmitter supports two primary communication protocols:

HART (Highway Addressable Remote Transducer) — The most widely adopted industrial communication protocol for process instrumentation. The HART version provides 4–20mA analog output with digital HART communication superimposed on the same two wires. Device configuration, diagnostic data, and process variables are accessible via HART.

Modbus RS485 — The digital fieldbus version eliminates analog conversion, providing direct digital transmission of all measured variables, diagnostic data, and configuration parameters. Modbus RS485 supports multi-drop installations, reducing wiring complexity in systems with multiple instruments.

I/O Configuration Flexibility — Up to three I/O channels can be independently configured. Typical configurations include:

One 4–20mA HART output + one pulse/frequency output + one status input

Two 4–20mA outputs + one pulse output

Modbus RS485 digital communication with up to two additional configurable I/O channels

12. Application Areas

The 6I3B series is suitable for a wide range of industrial gas measurement applications:

13. Why Source the 6I3B Series from ST-YUKE CO., LIMITED

ST-YUKE CO., LIMITED is a recognized distributor of Endress+Hauser instrumentation, providing the full Proline t-mass I 300 series (6I3BL1, 6I3BL2, 6I3BL3, 6I3BL4) with:

Genuine product certification — Every unit sourced directly from Endress+Hauser manufacturing facilities

Global shipping — Express delivery to major industrial centers worldwide

Technical pre-sales support — Order code configuration assistance and application engineering

Competitive pricing — Volume discounts available for OEMs and system integrators

Post-sales documentation — Complete technical information packages (TI, BA, KA, GP) provided with each shipment

For inquiries, quotations, or technical consultation regarding any 6I3B-series model, contact ST-YUKE CO., LIMITED directly.

14. Downloads and Supporting Documentation

The following official Endress+Hauser documents provide complete technical information for the 6I3B series (available via www.endress.com or through ST-YUKE CO., LIMITED):