What's New
Compact Linear Actuator Increases Throughput
The LCB Series of compact linear actuators incorporates a low-friction, dry-running sliding bearing carriage that provides long, reliable travel life — even at 100% duty cycle. Coupled with the manufacturer’s motors/controls, the actuator series offers a fully programmable, high-performance solution at a competitive price, while reducing space requirements. Low carriage mass and a steel-reinforced timing belt enable high acceleration and sustained velocity. With acceleration at 20 m/s2 and speeds up to 8 m/s, the LCB Series can achieve throughput comparable to linear motors at a fraction of the cost. The simple, cost-effective design makes these linear actuators ideal for replacing pneumatic actuators in applications that require tight control, accuracy and high performance.
Appeared In Issue: April 2007
Parker Hannifin Corp., Actuator Div.
www.parker.com/actuator/
pH Controller is Equipped with a PID Controller
Offering on/off and continuous process control, the Type 8205 pH controller combines a flat glass sensor and PID-controller/display within a single, splash-proof, plastic NEMA 4 enclosure. It can be integrated with the sensor or remote via a panel or wall mount. As an added feature, the pH controller indicates when the probe is 50% and fully expired when calibrating. The fittings are available in stainless steel, brass, PVDF, PP and PVC, with process connections that include threaded, TriClamp, true union and sanitary. The Type 8205 features a 4–20-mA output signal of actual pH value, plus a choice of relay, transistor or triac pulse outputs for base and acid injection. In addition, a separate dedicated alarm output relay is included that can be used as an interlock function to prevent out-of-specification discharge, or as a low/high pH alarm. Outputs vary in frequency/duration according to user-defined parameters and pH value setpoint. Chemical-specific pH titration curves can be programmed into the unit.
Appeared In Issue: April 2007
Burkert
www.burkert-usa.com
Interface Level Transmitter Features Industrial Scum-Cleaning Mechanisms
The ORCA Sonar Series Interface level transmitter provides a wide range of performance-enhancing sonar transducer frequencies to yield comprehensive and continuous interface level measurement. Featuring industrial scum-cleaning mechanisms that require virtually no maintenance, the ORCA Sonar Series’ transducers are continually cleaned, allowing for efficient and accurate measurements up to 100 ft. Offering a CDMA modem for remote technical and diagnostic support, the new ORCA Sonar hardware generates dual analog independent outputs to simultaneously track separate interfaces so that efforts may be streamlined and maximum efficiency is achieved. Ideal for applications in a variety of industries, such as wastewater treatment, water treatment, mining and processing, the ORCA Series is engineered to be MODBUS, Profibus and HART compatible.
Appeared In Issue: April 2007
Hawk Measurement America
www.hawkmeasure.com
VIS Spectrophotometer Makes Color Measurement of Chemicals Easy
The UltraScan VIS is a high-performance color measurement spectrophotometer that measures the full range of human color perception in seconds. It easily measures both reflected and transmitted color as well as transmission haze, and meets CIE, ASTM and USP guidelines for accurate color measurement. Spectral data are reported every 10 nm and tristimulus color calculations are performed from 360 to 780 nm as recommended by the CIE. In addition to color and spectral data, metrics such as APHA (Hazen), Saybolt, Gardner Scale, ASTM D 1500, Yellowness Index, and Whiteness Index can be quantified. For transmission measurement, the instrument’s spherical geometry virtually eliminates errors introduced by sample turbidity and haze. UltraScan VIS includes EasyMatch QC software and is ideal for research and quality control applications in laboratory and production environments.
Appeared In Issue: April 2007
HunterLab
www.hunterlab.com
Reduce Measurement Error in Fluid Flow with this Wet-Wet Differential Pressure Sensor
The Model DP86 is a double-sided, stainless-steel isolated, piezoresistive silicon pressure sensor packaged in a rugged Type 316L stainless steel housing, which makes it suitable for use in liquids and corrosive environments. Made for high-performance, low-pressure applications where differential pressure is required, the DP86 has been designed for O-ring mounting. The performance of the unit is said to match that of differential sensors that cost five times as much, in a package only one-half the size. Seven differential pressure ranges are available, with a low-pressure model (0–5 psi) and six other ranges from 0–15 psi up to 0–500 psi.
Appeared In Issue: April 2007
Measurement Specialities
www.meas-spec.com
Shaft Grounding Ring Simplifies Predictive/Preventive Motor Maintenance
The AEGIS SGR Conductive MicroFiber Shaft Grounding Ring is ideal for predictive and preventive maintenance programs on variable-frequency drive (VFD)-controlled AC motors and large DC motors. By protecting bearings from electrical damage, the SGR extends motor life, preventing bearing noise, downtime and costly motor repairs or replacements. Unlike conventional shaft-grounding brushes, the SGR’s conductive microfibers: work with virtually no friction or wear; are unaffected by dirt, grease or other contaminants; and last for the life of the motor. A handy mounting kit simplifies installation on any NEMA or IEC motor and provides clearance for motors with shaft shoulders, slingers, bearing caps or end-bell protrusions. Secured with three mounting screws and standoff posts, the entire assembly covers less than 1/2 in. of the motor shaft.
Appeared In Issue: April 2007
Electro Static Technology
www.est-aegis.com
Magnetic Board Shows a Full Year of Preventive Maintenance at a Glance
Having a regular preventive maintenance schedule can help avoid wasted time and money due to unexpected breakdowns and ensuing repair work. The Maintenance-Master Board displays and schedules a full year of preventive maintenance actions for each machine, vehicle and equipment item in a facility. Color-coded magnets identify the week’s job assignments, giving managers and employees a heads-up on maintenance work for the entire year ahead. The Maintenance- Master Board comes in three sizes, allowing 52 weeks of scheduling for 66, 90 or 180 line items. Each system includes write-on tools, an optional visible file aligned with the board that holds a two-year daily maintenance history card on each line item, and hundreds of multi-colored magnets with 1/2-in. printed grid lines to align with board grids, showing multi-week project tasks or equipment downtime.
Appeared In Issue: April 2007
Magnatag Visible Systems
www.magnatag.com/maintenance-master
New Fluoroelastomer is Compatible with Rapeseed-Oil Methyl Ester Biofuels
With increased global interest in reducing emissions, improving fuel efficiency and finding alternatives to petroleum-based fuels, fatty acid methyl esters such as rapeseed-oil methyl ester (RME), soy methyl ester (SME) and other biodiesel variants are gaining in importance. Biodiesel fuels and new diesel technology impose increased performance requirements on the elastomers used in diesel fuel and power train systems. These requirements include improved chemical resistance at higher operating temperatures over long periods of time. These issues were addressed in the development of Dyneon FPO 3741 fluoroelastomer. The material features excellent chemical resistance to RME biodiesel fuel and exhibits a constant low swell level. It retains its physical properties even after 1,000 h of RME exposure at 150°C.
Appeared In Issue: April 2007
Dyneon, a 3M Company
www.3M.com
Continuous Weigh Feeders Deliver Accurate Gravimetric Feeding
The Better-Weigh Continuous Feeders are designed for gravimetric feeding of dry bulk materials where it is necessary to determine actual feed rates on a loss-of-weight basis. Available in seven models with feed rates from 1 to 550 ft3/h, the units provide feeding in either batch or continuous mode, depending upon the arrangement of the feeder’s control electronics. In batch mode, the batch controller is used to control the fast (bulk) and slow (dribble) speeds of the feeder. Accuracies of ±0.5% can be easily achieved in 2-lb or smaller batches, and ±0.25% in 3-lb or larger batches with time spans of 30–90 s. In continuous mode, the feeder's electronic controller is used to constantly monitor loss-of-weight of material per time in order to maintain a continuous loss-of-weight with an accuracy of ±0.25–0.50%. Standard features include a platform or lever balance scale, sealed tactile keyboard, seven-digit numerical keyboard, automatic manual batching, and 2- or 5-ft3 hopper. Sanitary construction is also available.
Appeared In Issue: April 2007
Metalfab, Inc.
www.metalfabinc.com
Variable-Speed Brushless Blowers Incorporate Advanced Electronic Controls
Designed to deliver high air pressures/vacuums to satisfy material handling applications, the IntelliGen variable-speed brushless blowers feature an advanced electronic drive controller to promote high performance and reliability. Their electronic drive further incorporates a state-of-the-art factory-programmed digital signal processor (DSP) offering the capability to customize for specific end-user requirements. Weighing less than 7 lb, the blowers provide compact solutions with a maximum diameter size of 5.7 in. and heights ranging from 5.30 in. to 6.87 in., depending on model. Users can realize maximum sealed vacuum capabilities up to 120 in. of H2O and maximum wide-open flow to 280 ft3/min.
Appeared In Issue: April 2007
Ametek Technical & Industrial Products
www.ametektip.com