New dust monitoring technology targets hazardous industrial environments

ABB has launched the PFM 20 Ex, a new dust monitoring device designed for hazardous and harsh industrial environments. The device delivers a certified dust detection range down to 7.5mg/m³ and meets ATEX Zone 22 certification requirements, helping operators detect and monitor dust in applications where robust equipment and low-range measurement are essential.

The launch completes ABB’s industrial emission measurement portfolio, bringing together continuous emission monitoring systems, dust and gas flow measurement, and portable hydrocarbon detection in one end-to-end offering. Customers can now access a broader range of emission measurement solutions from ABB, including technologies added through the acquisition of Födisch Group, supported by a global expert service network and digital tools.

This broader offering helps simplify supplier coordination and provides operators with a more consistent route to selecting, deploying and supporting the measurement technologies required across their facilities.

“The PFM 20 Ex is an important product launch in its own right, giving customers high-sensitivity dust monitoring for hazardous environments,” said Jean-Rene Roy, Global Business Line Manager at ABB’s Measurement & Analytics division. “This also represents a significant addition to our highly capable industrial emission measurement portfolio, enabling us to support a broader range of customer needs, from continuous gas analysis to dust, gas flow and portable measurement.”

ABB’s end-to-end industrial emission measurement portfolio includes continuous emission monitoring systems (CEMS), including the ACF5000 and MCA 10 CEMS; particulate analysers such as the PFM 20, PFM 13 and OPM 19 ED dust analysers; gas flow analysers including the FMD 09; and portable Flame Ionisation Detectors (FIDs) for on-site, real-time hydrocarbon detection.

The portfolio is further supported by remote and on-site service capabilities and flexible care agreements. My Measurement Assistant+ (MMA+) supports measurement device operations with device health status, reports, documentation and AI-powered device-specific knowledge and solutions.

ABB completed the acquisition of Födisch Group in 2024, adding the German manufacturer’s advanced measurement and analytical solutions to its offering. The acquisition expanded ABB’s capabilities in dust and gas flow measurement as well as portable hydrocarbon detection, further strengthening its ability to provide integrated industrial emission measurement solutions.