Pepperl+Fuchs Z715 compact single-channel Zener Barrier

The Pepperl+Fuchs Z715 is a compact single-channel Zener barrier designed for intrinsically safe (IS) applications, providing protection for digital (discrete) signals in hazardous areas (Zone 1/21, Zone 2/22). It ensures safe transmission of ON/OFF signals (e.g., from switches, solenoid valves, or relays) by limiting voltage and current to non-incendive levels in explosive atmospheres.

Key Features of the Z715 Zener Barrier

✔ Digital Signal Protection – Designed for 24V DC discrete signals (e.g., switches, relays, solenoid valves).

✔ Intrinsic Safety Certifications:

ATEX / IECEx (Ex ia IIC / Ex ib IIC)

FM / CSA (Class I, II, III, Div. 1)

✔ Voltage/Current Limiting:

Max. Input Voltage (Ui): 250V AC/DC (safe area side).

Output (Uo/Io): Typically 28V DC / 93 mA (hazardous area side).

✔ LED Status Indicator – Visual power/fault monitoring (green = OK, red = fault).

✔ DIN-Rail Mountable – Compact design (17.5mm width) for control panels.

Typical Applications

Emergency stop circuits in hazardous areas.

Solenoid valve control in oil/gas/chemical plants.

Limit switch interfacing in explosive dust environments (Zone 21/22).

Digital sensor signals (e.g., proximity switches) in Zone 1/2.

Wiring & Installation

Safe Area (Control Side)

Terminal 1 (+Ub): Power supply (typically 24V DC).

Terminal 2 (GND): Mandatory earth ground (<1 Ω resistance critical!).

Terminal 3 (OUT): Signal to/from PLC/relay.

Hazardous Area (Field Side)

Terminal 4 (IS+): Intrinsically safe output to field device.

Terminal 5 (IS–): Return line.

⚠ Critical Safety Notes:

Grounding is mandatory – Zener barriers rely on earth to shunt excess energy.

Do NOT use in Zone 0 unless certified for Ex ia.

Max. field device load: ≤93 mA.

Comparison with Similar Barriers

Model Type Key Difference

Z715 Digital Zener Barrier For discrete signals (ON/OFF)

Z786 Analog Zener Barrier 4–20 mA process signals

KFD2-SR2-Ex2 Galvanic Isolator Dual-channel, no ground needed

Why Choose the Z715?

✅ Cost-effective IS protection for digital circuits.

✅ Globally certified (ATEX, IECEx, FM, CSA).

✅ Compact and easy to install (DIN-rail).