Parameters
The VE4021 supports up to 16 remote I/O units per controller, with a maximum of 300 remote I/O units across the entire DeltaV network. Each RIU can support up to 4 controllers through shared I/O addressing.
Core Advantages
Designed for Zone 2 Hazardous Areas
The VE4021 carries Class I, Div 2 and ATEX Zone 2 hazardous area certifications, making it suitable for chemical, oil and gas, and other industrial environments where potentially explosive atmospheres may exist. Its ISA-S71.04-1985 Class G3 conformal coating provides effective protection against corrosive gases.
Dual Redundant Ethernet Communication
The RIU2 version features dual 10/100 MB Ethernet ports, providing primary and backup communication paths for deterministic and reliable remote I/O data exchange. It also supports full HART data pass-through, enabling seamless integration with AMS Device Manager for remote asset diagnostics.
Flexible Shared I/O Architecture
Each remote I/O unit can be shared by up to 4 controllers, supporting card-level data allocation. This architecture significantly improves I/O resource utilization in large distributed systems while reducing overall wiring complexity and cost.
Broad DeltaV Version Compatibility
The RIU2 version is backward compatible with DeltaV v13.3.1 and later, and supports Series 2 Plus I/O cards (from v14.FP3), providing a flexible migration path for existing system upgrades and expansions.
Compact, Lightweight Plug-and-Play Design
With dimensions of only 107 mm × 41 mm × 105 mm and a weight of 0.3 kg, the module features 8-pin RJ-45 connectors for plug-and-play installation. It mounts directly on the Power/Controller Carrier and supports automatic address recognition.
Application
Oil and Gas Facilities: In oilfields, gas fields, and refining units requiring long-distance data acquisition, the VE4021 enables remote I/O installation near Zone 2 hazardous areas, reducing centralized wiring costs.
Chemical and Pharmaceutical Processing: Suitable for chemical and pharmaceutical production environments where corrosive gases or potential explosion risks exist, with Class G3 conformal coating providing long-term protection.
Power Generation Systems: Used in power generation facilities with distributed sensors to achieve flexible deployment and reliable communication of remote I/O.
Large-Scale Plant Remote I/O Integration: In large process automation environments where centralized wiring is impractical or cost-prohibitive, the VE4021 enables distributed I/O architecture, reducing overall system complexity and wiring costs.
Water and Wastewater Treatment: Suitable for remote data acquisition and control applications in industrial automation water treatment facilities.
FAQ
Q1: What is the primary function of the VE4021?
The VE4021 serves as a Remote Interface Unit, establishing communication between DeltaV controllers and remote I/O modules, enabling efficient data exchange between field devices and the DeltaV control network.
Q2: Can the VE4021 be installed in hazardous areas?
Yes. The VE4021 is specifically designed for Zone 2 hazardous environments and holds Class I, Div 2 and ATEX Zone 2 certifications, making it suitable for industrial locations where potentially explosive gases may be present.
Q3: Can the RIU2 version replace an older RIU?
Yes. The RIU2 version is fully backward compatible with systems running DeltaV v13.3.1 and later, and supports Series 2 Plus I/O cards.
Q4: How many controllers can one VE4021 connect to?
Each remote I/O unit can support up to 4 controllers, allowing flexible card-level allocation. Each controller can connect to a maximum of 16 remote I/O units.
Q5: Does the VE4021 require a separate power supply?
No. The module draws power directly from the system power supply via the 2-wide Power/Controller Carrier backplane connector, with a maximum current of 2.0 A and a built-in 3.0 A non-replaceable fuse.
Q6: Does the VE4021 support HART communication?
Yes. The module features full HART data pass-through, enabling seamless integration with AMS Device Manager for remote device management and diagnostics.
Q7: What is the operating temperature range?
The VE4021 has an operating temperature range of -40 °C to +70 °C and a storage temperature range of -40 °C to +85 °C, suitable for extreme industrial environments.
Q8: What are the common part number typos to watch for?
When searching, be aware of common typographical variations: VE402I (numeral 1 mistaken for letter I), VE402l (numeral 1 mistaken for lowercase L), and VE4O21 (letter O mistaken for numeral 0).
Recommended Models
The following models are commonly used with the VE4021 or belong to the same product family:
