What's New
Flow Switch Features Solid-State Relay Outputs
The Model 501 FLOSWITCH is ideal for applications that require alarms for low- or no-flow conditions, excessive flow, or intermittent flow rates. The switches are available in plastic or stainless-steel construction. Featuring highly precise solid- state relay outputs with setpoints as low as 13 mL/min, they provide a cost-effective replacement to non-repeatable piston-type or rotameter-based alternatives. Integrated visual indicators display current status. Units may be used with pressures up to 500 psig.
Appeared In Issue: July 2005
McMillan Co.
www.mcmflow.com
This Integrated Process Spectrophotometer Can Endure Harsh Environment
The Western Research Model IPS-4, developed for UV-VIS spectroscopy of liquids and gases, can measure up to eight wavelengths and quantify five measurement components simultaneously. It comes with chemometric capability to solve complex measurement problems. The unit offers the advantage of no moving parts, high signal-to-noise ratio, minimized stray light effects, wide linear dynamic range, and fast and full spectral acquisition (220–1,100 nm). The IPS-4 is engineered to withstand harsh outdoor, industrial environments. It possesses excellent temperature stability, reliability and features a host of self-diagnostic and predictive maintenance capabilities. The unit is equipped with numerous analog (4–20 mA) and digital communications capabilities, including RS232, RS485 with MODBUS RTU protocol and a built-in Fast Ethernet port. A built-in web browser offers Internet connectivity, enabling users to access data on the intranet and Internet.
Appeared In Issue: July 2005
AMETEK Process Instruments
www.ametekpi.com
Radar Transmitter Delivers Peak Performance in Areas Vital to Radar Level Measurement
The Rosemount 5400 is touted as the first radar transmitter to offer peak performance in all three areas vital to radar level measurement: Echosensitivity — the ability to detect weak radar echoes reliably; Echodynamics — the ability to handle weak and strong radar echoes simultaneously; and Echologics — the ability to ignore false echoes. Two models are available — the Rosemount 5401, low-frequency transmitter (~ 6 GHz), which is used in applications with turbulence, heavy vapors, foam or where there is a risk for deposits on the antenna and the Rosemount 5402, high-frequency transmitter (~ 26 GHz), which utilizes a narrower radar beam for installations that have tall or narrow nozzles, where the nozzle is close to the tank wall, or to avoid disturbing objects in the tank.
Appeared In Issue: July 2005
Emerson Process Management
www.emersonprocess.com
Laser Transmitter Measures Level, Distance, and Position in Challenging Bulk Solids Applications
Designed for measuring dry bulk solids, regardless of the presence of surrounding vapor or moderate dust, the EasyTrak XP laser transmitter is housed in an explosionproof assembly with screw-on cover for quick and easy access. The dual-compartment design allows users to isolate the wiring and terminations from the sensing elements and internal electronics. Meeting the requirements for use in hazardous areas (FM and CSA — Class I, Division 1 and 2, Groups A, B, C, D), the EasyTrak XP’s rugged, powdercoated aluminum enclosure is rated for IP67 or NEMA 4X and DIP ratings. The device can measure virtually any solid surface at any angle, whether grains, plastics, or aggregates. The small wavelength of the laser means a narrower beam with virtually no beam divergence and, therefore, no false echoes. This provides high accuracy readings even when dealing with the most challenging circumstances, such as measuring inside silo cones and even silo chutes or through narrow openings in protective grids.
Appeared In Issue: July 2005
ASI Instruments, Inc.
www.asiinstruments.com
Rugged Computing Products Improve Reliability
The customizable SEL-3351 system computing platform is designed to replace office-grade PCs in control house environments. It has a variety of configuration options, including protocol conversion, Human-Machine Interface (HMI), event report retrieval, Sequential Events Recorder (SER) reporting, automatic control, software logic, self-diagnostics, system configuration, and data concentration. The firm has also released the SEL-3301 Protocol Gateway, which provides reliable protocol conversion to connect older and newer equipment. System engineers can upgrade master and remote systems at different times, allowing them to phase capital expenditures and prolong the useful life of legacy assets.
Appeared In Issue: July 2005
Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories, Inc.
www.selinc.com/PR4
In-Situ Flue Gas Oxygen Analyzer is Self Calibrating
OxyTrak is an innovative sealed reference analyzer that uses a unique, miniaturized zirconium-oxide sensor with a sealed internal reference to accurately determine flue gas oxygen content, even with rapidly changing process conditions. With the sensor acting in “pump” mode, the current needed to maintain partial pressure equilibrium is proportional to the oxygen content. In addition, the Nernst voltage present during transients is used to instantly indicate the magnitude of oxygen content changes. The small sensor size allows the measurement inputs to reach equilibrium quickly, providing superior speed of response. The unit is designed for in situ installations with variable probe lengths up to 60 in. The advanced microprocessor-based electronics package features an infrared, through-the-glass keypad; a universal power supply (85 to 264 VAC); 0/4 to 20 mA or 0 to 2 VDC analog output; dual alarms; a fail-safe alarm; and an RS232 or RS485 serial output.
Appeared In Issue: September 2005
GE Infrastructure Sensing
www.gesensing.com
Intrinsically Safe Data Collector Meets ATEX Zone Zero Requirements
The Enpac Ex data collector utilizes the latest advances in analog and digital electronics, including digital signal processing (DSP) and a powerful Sigma-Delta A/D converter to provide both speed and accuracy in the data collection process. It was specifically designed to meet ATEX Zone 0, a European Union category designation for areas where an explosive atmosphere is continuously present or present for long periods.
Appeared In Issue: July 2005
Rockwell Automation
www.ra.rockwell.com
Characterize Samples with this High-Temperature GPC
The modular Viscotek Model 350 HTGPC is a high-temperature (150°F) gel-permeation chromatography (GPC) system that features automated sample preparation and delivery, self-cleaning inline sample filtration and a detector module that is easily removed for routine maintenance. The unit can be configured with a refractive index (RI) detector and low angle/right angle laser light scatttering (LALS/RALS) detector to provide absolute molecular weight, molecular size and other critical information.
Appeared In Issue: July 2005
Viscotek
www.viscotek.com
Environmental, Health and Safety
Get Securely Anchored with This Connector The FP Stryder Anchorage Connector now features easy, single-hand installation, as well as low-friction wear pads with Teflon, which eliminates metal-to-metal contact and allows the unit to effortlessly glide along the beam flange. Weighing only 4.5 pounds, the connector has an integral load indicator that alerts users if the unit has been exposed to a fall. A variety of models are available to fit most beam sizes. The standard version fits beam sizes from 4in. to 14 in. The XL version fits beam sizes from 14 in. to 24 in. The unit meets ANSI Z359.1, ANSI A10.32, and all applicable OSHA standards.
Appeared In Issue: July 2005
MSA
www.MSAnet.com
Toxic Gas Monitoring System Provides Protection in Hazardous Environments
The advanced TS4000 Toxic Gas Monitoring System combines a highly intelligent microprocessor-based design with exceptionally reliable and rugged electrochemical sensors in an explosion-proof housing. The intrinsically-safe design of its interface module supports sensor field replacement without the need for special tools or hot work permits. Other features include longdistance remote mounting up to 2,000 ft, dual redundant MODBUS communications, 8-A relays, three-digit display, 4–20-mA output, and indication of remaining sensor life. The TS4000 displays gas concentrations up to 500 ppm, fault codes for troubleshooting, and provides complete status to the control room.
Appeared In Issue: July 2005
General Monitors
www.generalmonitors.com
Magnetically Coupled Valve Will Increase Safety and Reduce Environmental Contamination
Conventional ball valves utilize elastomeric or mechanical stem seals to contain the transmitted medium. If these seals fail, the medium escapes to the environment. This is a grave concern if the medium is a potential environmental pollutant or health hazard. The Roetelmann design eliminates this potential by encapsulating the stem and seals in a welded canister, should the seals fail the medium cannot escape to the atmosphere. Previous designs were unable to provide an indication that the internal ball had rotated to the desired open or closed position when the valve was actuated. The inclusion of a non-contact sensor has provided a technical solution for this problem. The valves are produced with a variety of construction and seal materials to meet customer requirements. Welded or flanged end connections, locking devices to meet OSHA requirements and actuators are available.
Appeared In Issue: July 2005
Roetelmann GmbH
www.icflow.com/roetelmann.php
Filter Offers Twice the Life and Half the Pressure Drop
Compared to standard dustcollector cartridge filters, the HemiPleat filter typically doubles the life at half the pressure drop, according to the manufacturer. The key to the filter’s performance is a patent-pending pleating technology that has never before been used in the manufacture of a cylindrical dust collection filter. An innovative media pack design holds the pleats of the cartridge open, making virtually all the media surface available for filtration. The wide, uniform spacing results in lower pressure drop for more efficient performance. This design also causes dust to release more readily from the cartridge during pulse cleaning and uses less compressed air for many applications. Extensive testing shows that the HemiPleat cartridge also holds more dust than conventional filters, allowing a longer time period between cleaning cycles.
Appeared In Issue: July 2005
Farr Air Pollution Control
www.farrapc.com
Cut-Off Valve Is Key to Improved Operating Efficiency
The patented Spheri Valve is a fast-closing bulk materials cutoff valve featuring a long-lasting dome assembly design. The valves can handle pressures up to 435 psi and material temperatures from –4°F to 900°F. The Spheri Valve can be used for abrasive, friable, and toxic materials, including foodstuffs, ores, detergents, ash, and many other materials. Valve sizes from 2 in. to 20 in. are available, as are several end-connection configurations. Water-cooled options are offered for applications involving temperatures in excess of 400°F, as are special features such as a solenoid valve and timer, and a quick exhaust valve.
Appeared In Issue: July 2005
Clyde Materials Handling
www.clydematerials.com
Reactor Features Wall-Mounted Baffle Design
Eliminating the need for top-entry baffles, the OptiMix reactor utilizes three wall-mounted baffles to enhance heat transfer, solids suspension and distribution, gas dispersion, gas flowrates, and mass transfer through improved mixing. The patented baffle design improves CIP efficiency by eliminating the difficult-to-clean top-head pocket at the baffle/nozzle interface. Vortexing and splashing are significantly reduced, resulting in less product drying and sticking to the heated wall above the liquid surface. In addition to improving cleanability, the sidewall construction of the baffles makes all top head nozzles available for process use. The symmetrical baffling of the OptiMix reactor reduces shaft deflection and extends seal life by minimizing the bending loads that are imposed on the agitator shaft. OptiMix glass-lined reactors are available in pilot plant and production sizes with either a standard jacket, or with a HemiCoil split-pipe jacket for optimum heat transfer.
Appeared In Issue: July 2005
De Dietrich Process Systems
www.ddpsinc.com
Food Processor Can Slice and Dice Whole Produce
The Chopper Hopper is a food products processor that combines solids reduction and transfer pumping into one efficient unit. It can reduce whole produce — papayas, corn or any other fruits or vegetables — into an easy-to-handle slurry. The single compact package provides high throughput, large surge capacity and multiple stages of grinding for coarse, medium and even fine slurries. The Chopper Hopper features a rugged progressing cavity pump with proprietary gear joint design.
Appeared In Issue: July 2005
Moyno, Inc.
www.moyno.com
Patented Impeller Design Prevents Pump Plugging
The unique Shearpeller impeller design is now available on many of this firm’s pump lines, including pumps for pulp and paper, chemical processing, wastewater, mining and mineral processing. This Shearpeller design features a tapered inlet sleeve that prevents contaminants from plugging the impeller inlet area. The sleeve is loose to rotate independently from impeller. The slower rotation prevents contaminants from collecting at the impeller eye and prevents erosion of the hub. Contaminants such as tape, plastic bands and similar debris can plug the impeller inlet and disrupt operations. The Shearpeller design helps solve this problem by providing a generous front clearance with vortex- type design that prevents binding and plugging.
Appeared In Issue: July 2005
Goulds Pumps
www.gouldspumps.com
Flexible Screw Conveyor Is Mobile
The mobility of this flexible screw conveyor allows for easy changeover, permitting different products to be conveyed using the same conveyor. The conveyor’s UHMWPE tube and steel spiral can be easily disassembled and cleaned with little downtime. Featuring locking swivel wheels for stability, the unit can be easily maneuvered in tight facility locations. The conveyor is controlled using an onboard control panel that can be pre-programmed. Different tube diameters and lengths to accommodate required rates up to 100,000 ft3/h are available.
Appeared In Issue: July 2005
SpiroFlow Systems Inc
www.spiroflowsystems.com