What's New
Sample Conditioning System Enables Remote Process Analysis
Pilot Pro is a communications interface for process sample conditioning systems that provides a link between plant process control operations and analyzer maintenance networks, regardless of their locations. Consisting of a sensor and solenoid administration module, it acquires, transmits and manages real-time sample system information via an electronic interface, facilitating critical process control decision-making. Its communication ability allows engineers and technicians to receive critical sample system data (pressure, temperature and flow) to promote proactive maintenance activities and reduce system downtime. It supports a variety of communication protocols, including Ethernet, Modbus, Profibus, among others.
Appeared In Issue: December 2008
Parker Hannifin Corp.
www.parker.com
Blast Through Maintenance Problems With this Thermal Imager Video Game
The Fluke Challenge is an interactive video game set in an imaginary industrial workplace that makes it fun to learn how thermal imaging technology helps solve maintenance problems. The game takes place in gritty industrial equipment rooms with a supervisor nearby who checks the user’s progress. As would happen in real life, the player scans the rooms and detects problems using the thermal imager, which also captures and saves images. Possible problems to report to the boss include: an overloaded transformer, overheated fuses, stuck valves, etc. As the user finds and fixes problems, he/she saves more and more money, which increases the score and pleases the supervisor.
Appeared In Issue: December 2008
Fluke
www.flukechallenge.com
Multi-Component Analyzer Gives Real-Time Results
The Titan-OL (On-Line) system provides real-time extractive-gas-phase analysis for online and continuous multi-point analysis. It includes a rugged, industrial Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometer, gas cell(s), sample manifold, valve-control electronics, and software. The hardware is encased in a NEMA-rated enclosure or in a standard industrial rack-mount cabinet. The manufacturer’s exclusive fiber-optic distribution electronics provide a single hub for temperature, pressure, mass flow, external alarm, and optical switching signals. The system can accommodate up to four 12-port manifolds for a total of 48 sample, purge and calibration lines, with communication between the hub and control computer via fast, stable fiber-optic cable. Titan-OL systems use dual analog-to-digital converter (ADC) architecture and advanced mirror drive control for increased sensitivity and very low detection levels for a variety of compounds. Custom gas cells are corrosion-resistant and are available with path lengths from 0.01 m to 30 m. The systems can operate at temperatures from ambient to 240ºC, allowing moist sample streams to be analyzed without condensation. The included AutoQuant Pro software package handles method calibration, data collection, trend analysis charting, manifold control, and integration of alarm and control functions with plant process hardware and software
Appeared In Issue: December 2008
MIDAC Corp.
www.midac.com
Portable Instrument Measures A Product’s Reflected Color
The MiniScan EZ is a portable color-measurement instrument that can take product color readings on the plant floor, the production line and outdoors. Its lightweight (2.25 lb), ergonomic design features a rubberized handle for sure-handed carrying that virtually eliminates user fatigue when measuring a large number of samples. Measurements can be stored in memory for later printout or download to a PC. Other features include excellent measurement repeatability and agreement between multiple instruments, the ability to take thousands of measurements using standard AA batteries, and a button pad for thumb-tip navigation of all functions.
Appeared In Issue: December 2008
HunterLab
www.hunterlab.com
Compact Package Features Modbus RTU Master and Distributed I/O
The microNCS Modbus remote terminal unit (RTU) master and distributed input/output (I/O) system sends process signals between the field or factory floor and a control system. One or both Modbus RTU ports can be configured to poll other Modbus RTU slaves with all of the network polling functions of a typical Modbus master. This includes polling of up to 32 (without repeaters) microNCS stations. The unit can handle up to 64 slave devices when both Modbus RTU ports are in use. It concentrates data from four or eight fully isolated analog inputs and four discrete (contact closure) inputs, and then transmits the data long distances back to one or more host distributed control system (DCS), programmable logic controller (PLC) or personal computer (PC)-based control systems. Its industry-standard open connectivity (OPC) interface delivers plug-and-play integration with popular PC-based human-machine interface (HMI) and supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) software packages.
Appeared In Issue: December 2008
Moore Industries-International, Inc.
www.miinet.com
Gas Detection Rack-Mount Control System Features Many Options
The TA-2048MB gas-detection digital Modbus rack-mount controller features a 48-channel system, with three separate 16-channel Modbus networks. It has local or remote power supply options and four single-pole/single-throw (SPST) relays that are common to all channels on each network. It features a backlit 16-character by 2-line liquid crystal display, automatic scrolling that provides channel data and fault conditions, and simple front-panel, push-button channel setup. Its redundant storage of configuration parameters provides excellent system reliability. Optional features include an explosionproof design, remote relay modules, a remote analog output module, and a remote digital output module. It can be installed at any point on an RS-485 network to minimize wiring.
Appeared In Issue: December 2008
MIL-RAM Technology, Inc.
www.mil-ram.com
Coriolis Flowmeter Withstands Corrosive Fluid Processing
This tantalum version of the Optimass 7300 Coriolis mass flowmeter handles highly aggressive and corrosive fluids found in the chemical industry. Because the wall thickness of typical Coriolis measuring tubes is significantly less than the process piping they connect to, the meter’s corrosion tolerance is significantly less than that of the associated piping. This tantalum flowmeter uses a single straight-tube design, which is less expensive to produce than earlier twin-bent-tube designs and contains the stress created in a straight tube due to thermal expansion. It is made of tantalum Ta10W, an alloy of 90% tantalum with 10% tungsten for additional tensile strength.
Appeared In Issue: December 2008
KROHNE
www.krohne.com
Broth Performs Coliform Detection within 24 Hours
The m-ColiBlue24 broth simultaneously detects and identifies both total coliforms and Escherichia coli (E. coli). Complete enumeration is accomplished within 24 h, requiring neither a confirmation step nor fluorescent lamps. Visual interpretation of results is easy, with E. coli colonies appearing as blue and other coliforms as red. This direct enumeration is more accurate and precise than such statistical-based tests as multiple-tube fermentation (MTF) and most-probable number (MPN). This broth method of detection has been approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for monitoring drinking water and wastewater, and can also be used to detect coliforms in other types of waters: bottled, surface, ground, well and recreational (both fresh and marine), as well as process water for ultrapure chemical processing.
Appeared In Issue: December 2008
Hach Co.
www.hach.com
Pipeline Inspection Firm Expands Service Operations
Envirosight has tripled the size of its Randolph, NJ, headquarters, with amenities that include a 25-seat classroom where end users and regional sales partners receive regular training on pipe inspection technologies and methods. Its new lab broadens the company’s onsite research and testing capabilities and will quicken time-to-market processes for new products. Its technical service center has room for up to 12 technicians and provides enhanced capabilities for maintenance, repair and new product prototyping, as well as technical training for end users and sales partners. Envirosight has also opened a new regional service center in Kansas City, KS. Housed in a facility operated by Key Equipment, Envirosight’s sales partner for the Missouri-Kansas-southern Illinois region, this center provides end users with service and technical training at a convenient regional location.
Appeared In Issue: December 2008
Envirosight, LLC
www.envirosight.com
VOC Control System Can Be Adapted to Meet a Facility’s Needs
The MultiPhase BioSystem is capable of controlling volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions from virtually all sources. A practical alternative to thermal oxidizers, in-bed biofiltration systems, and aerobic digestion, it combines characteristics of an in-bed bioscrubber and aerobic digestion with the high removal efficiency of micron-scale mist scrubbing. It treats high inlet concentrations of VOC emissions, including such alcohols as methanol and other high-vapor-pressure compounds, as well as more difficult turpenes and pinenes. The system can be sited close to the emission source, which minimizes cost and duct complexity. It can be installed as a tower with a small footprint, as well as in other configurations to meet a facility’s space constraints. The system provides high removal rates for high particulate concentrations and heavy loadings of biological treatment products without clogging media beds. Its media is permanent, eliminating the need to replace either the media or the packing.
Appeared In Issue: December 2008
Tri-Mer Corp.
www.tri-mer.com
New Swiss Facility Offers Product Demonstrations
Thermo Fisher Scientific has opened a new facility in Reinach, Switzerland, near Basel, to support the large pharmaceutical and chemical industry cluster in Switzerland near the French and German borders. It houses the company’s analytical instrument operations and commercial operations, and consolidates the Flux Instruments and Spectronex product lines that were acquired from SwissAnalytic Group. The 12,000-ft2 facility features a 3,200-ft2 demonstration laboratory containing new mass spectrometers and other laboratory instruments and consumables. This lab allows customers to work closely with the company’s technical experts to gain hands-on experience with new instrumentation.
Appeared In Issue: December 2008
Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc.
www.thermofisher.com
Hood Helps Protect Hearing And Keeps Workers Warm
The Polar Hood is specifically designed to be worn with earmuffs, which ensures optimal attenuation for workers exposed to cold climates who also require hearing protection. In typical earmuff-hood configurations, the hood is worn over the earmuffs, which compromises temperature protection, or under the earmuffs, which compromises hearing protection. The Polar Hood has patented side panels to eliminate gaps between the earcup and ear, keeping the wearer warm and allowing a proper acoustic seal. Its weatherproof design provides warmth and protection, making it suitable for use by workers in construction, the oil/gas/petrochemical industry, food production, and other personnel exposed to cold weather. A seal around the face prevents further exposure, and the adjustable design includes a front zipper for ventilation and a foldaway visor. Its bright-green trim enhances visibility and safety outdoors. The Polar Hood is available in small/medium and large/extra large sizes.
Appeared In Issue: December 2008
Sperian Protection
www.sperianprotection.com
Cleaning Solvent Restores Polymer-Production Efficiency
HT-Solve 515 is a high-temperature solvent that is suitable for cleaning equipment used in polymer manufacturing processes, including reactor vessels, pipelines, heat exchangers, pumps, and other equipment that is vulnerable to residue buildup. When polymers are manufactured, a plastic powder residue is produced during polymerization and monomer volatilization, building up inside secondary copolymer reactors and transfer lines. This residue accumulates and solidifies on surfaces, causing equipment to lose efficiency. The solvent, a mixture of diphenylethane and alkylated aromatics, thoroughly cleans the processing equipment by dissolving the residue. HT-Solve 515 is thermally stable at temperatures as high as 625ºF and has a low vapor pressure. It provides a more efficient cleaning than mechanical methods because it allows equipment to be cleaned inline without disassembly, reducing downtime and labor requirements associated with cleaning.
Appeared In Issue: December 2008
The Dow Chemical Co.
www.dow.com
Flexible Materials Bond Dissimilar Substrates
Loctite 5510 adhesive/sealant and 5570 adhesive are highly resistant to vibration, movement and impact. These permanently elastic, primerless formulations bond and seal a wide variety of dissimilar substrates, including metals, glass, nylon and plastics. The adhesives use the manufacturer’s FlexTec technology and have a one-component design. They are odorless, noncorrosive, and free of solvents, isocyanites, silicones and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). They require only ambient moisture to cure and achieve functional strength after 24 h. The 5510 adhesives are available in white, gray and black. They bond and seal simultaneously, fill gaps, resist weather and moisture, and withstand ongoing shock and impact; they form a skin quickly and can cure to a tack-free surface. The 5570 adhesives, which are suitable for high-productivity, high-volume applications, are available in clear or white, and replace mechanical fasteners and rivets, providing vibration- and sound-dampening.
Appeared In Issue: December 2008
Henkel Corp.
www.henkelna.com
Plastic Ball Valves Have a Rugged Design
QTA and QVC Series industrial, compact ball valves feature socket or threaded-pipe connectors, as well as a rugged, all-plastic design similar to that found on higher-cost ball valves. They have Santoprene thermoplastic elastomer seats, full porting, and a 150-psi pressure rating. The QVC Series valves are available in 0.5-in to 4.0-in. sizes in gray or white polyvinyl chloride (PVC). The QTA Series valves are available in 0.5-in to 2.0-in. sizes in gray or white PVC, and include socket and threaded true union end connections. Both provide easy quarter-turn operation and can fit into spaces too small for other valves.
Appeared In Issue: December 2008
Hayward Flow Control Systems
www.haywardflowcontrol.com
Heating/Cooling Unit Operates without Evaporation Pads
Workhorse Series industrial/commercial heating and cooling equipment features direct-fired heaters combined with evaporative coolers in a single unit. Its patented FreshWater slinger-wheel technology evenly distributes atomized water across all of the air inlets to ensure efficient cooling. It operates without traditional evaporative-cooling pads, which sometimes dry slowly, possibly exposing the process to airborne pathogens, mold spores and odors. The system can handle flowrates from 6,000 to 75,000 ft3/min, and can heat up to 6,500,000 Btu. All units come standard with network capability and variable-speed drives for better energy management. Touch-screen controls allow up to 15 units to be remotely controlled via a programmable logic controller (PLC) or computer. The unit is constructed of 18-gauge Galvalume zinc alloy steel, which provides more corrosion resistance than galvanized steel.
Appeared In Issue: December 2008
Bessamaire
www.bessamaire.com
Collapsible Bin Dispenser is Automatic
The CB-2500 fully automatic dispenser handles collapsible-type bins, such as those used by the food industry. A stack of collapsed bins is conveyed into the machine, where air-operated clamps enter the voids of the second bin, holding the second bin and the remaining stack of bins aloft while the bottom bin is lowered and discharged onto the chain conveyor. The dispenser can discharge two bins per minute, and can be built to discharge a bin out of three sides. It has all-welded construction and features structural steel components that provide strength and durability.
Appeared In Issue: December 2008
Specialty Equipment
www.specialtyequipment.com
Mobile Loading Unit Improves Efficiency and Safety
This mobile transloading unit is designed for fast, safe custody transfer of a wide variety of liquids. It features a four-wheeled towable trailer that is easy to operate, one side of which can be used for truck transloading and the other for railcar transloading. Both sides share common transfer equipment, including hoses, filters, strainers, air eliminators, valves, sensors, overfill-protection equipment, pumps, meters and an emergency shut-off switch. Optional safety features include access platforms, gangways, and fall-protection safety cages.
Appeared In Issue: December 2008
SafeRack, LLC
www.saferack.com