New Products & Services
October 2008
This Mixer is Ideal for Viscous Mixing and Dispersion
The PowerMix (photo) includes two separate agitation systems within one mixer. A planetary blade revolves in combination with a separate high-speed dispersion blade. Both revolve on their own axis as well as on a common axis, and the speed of each can be varied independently of the other. This combination allows a user to fine tune the mixer to meet his specific process needs and the shear rates that are required to optimize his process. The PowerMix is used for high-viscosity vacuum mixing and dispersion as well as the dispersion, of minor liquid or powder ingredients into powder mixes. The PowerMix is available in many sizes from a ½-gal laboratory unit, through a 750-gal production model. The unit shown was designed for vacuum operation, included a special light in the vacuum hood, special charging ports, a wall scraper, elevated base and a flush-type discharge valve. — Charles Ross and Son Company, Hauppauge, N.Y.
Manage Hydrogen Hazards in Plant Environments
Hydrogen is a combustible gas that is difficult to detect and easily ignitable on contact with open flames, electrical sparks or static discharge. This fast, ultrasonic gas-leak detector (photo) quickly detects the ultrasonic noise generated by the escaping gas at a distance from the leak source. It detects the gas at leak initiation regardless of ventilation rate, gas dilution or the direction of the leak, and without the gas having to make physical contact with a sensor element. This makes it an ideal choice for detection in vessels and pipes in open and ventilated areas. The detector, which is based on robust microphone technology, has a detection radius for hydrogen up to 8 m at a leak rate of 0.01 kg/s. The detectors are SIL suitability rated and hold relevant C-UL and ATEX certifications. — General Monitors, Lake Forest, Calif.
Integrate these Brass Ball Valves into this Firm’s Piping Systems
The Series FBV-3-Press, two-piece, full-port, brass ball valves are designed for use in this firm’s ProPress piping systems. Its integral press-fitting tailpieces are designed to be quickly and easily pressed into ProPress piping systems and are rated at 200-psi CWP at 210°F. They feature a dezincification-resistant brass body, adjustable packing gland and bottom-loaded, blowout-proof stem with stem O-ring seal. FBV-3-Press valves are UL Listed and ANSI/NSF 61 certified ½ – 2 in. for potable water systems. Available in sizes from ½ to 4 in. — Watts Water Technologies, North Andover, Mass.
Easily Remove this Tank-Mounted Viscosity Sensor for Cleaning
A tank-mounted viscosity sensor (photo) is available for both water- and solvent-based applications, such as printing, glues and adhesives, that operates at atmospheric pressure and has removable wetted parts. The MXBOC Viscosity Sensor is suitable for use with tanks 7 – 26-in. deep and operates at atmospheric pressure. Featuring a new one-bolt mounting mechanism, the all-stainless-steel wetted parts can be easily removed for cleaning and sterilization without having to disturb the air or electrical connections. Using the "piston time-of-fall" method, the MXBOC measures viscosities from 0.1 to 100,000 cps and is CE and ATEX compliant. It requires 40 psi dry air and a three-way 24-V-d.c. air valve, and is PLC compatible for use with the firm’s process controllers. — Norcross Corp., Newton, Mass.
Sheet Molding Compound Preheater Cuts Cure Time By 50%
A new preheating system (photo) for plastic sheet molding compound (SMC) that uses radio frequency heating technology is now available. This new system is reported to enhance the distribution of reinforcement fibers in the molding process, which improves product quality and strength, reduces press cure time by 50%, and is especially effective for thicker bosses and structures. Facilitating the movement and distribution of fibers throughout molded parts, improving their strength and surface finish, this RF preheater reduces press cure time. Capable of preheating SMC loads up to 30 by 84 in. in under one min, the Macrowave SMC Preheater has a PLC that controls the heat cycle time, power level and conveyor movement to synchronize with the press operation. — Radio Frequency Co., Millis, Mass.
A Radical New Platform Design
Delivers Smart Rheology Solutions
Launched last month, the Kinexus rotational rheometer platform (photo, p. 32D-4) enables users to spend less time learning how to interact with their system and more time investigating ways to characterize and enhance a material’s performance. Fully integrated into the firm’s materials-characterization range, Kinexux delivers high-performance measurement supported by the company’s expertise in complex materials, including macromolecular and multiphase systems. Two systems will be available: Kinexus pro, a high-end rheometer suitable for routine and research applications; and Kinexus ultra, for demanding low-torque applications, such as weakly structured and small-volume sample measurements. — Malvern Instruments Ltd., Malvern, U.K.
Contain Spray-Outs with this Safety Shield
This firm has launched a range of safety shields (photo) that provide simple, yet highly effective protection from dangerous spray-outs, which can occur from pressurized pipelines containing diesel, lube oil and other potentially harmful liquids. The shields are designed to wrap around pipe joints, such as flanges, valves, couplings or any type of pipe fitting. It is not intended to contain the leaks indefinitely, but to prevent the hazardous spray that might cause a fire or explosion in zoned hazardous areas, or in the event of contact with hot surfaces. The shields are designed to be removed during maintenance or in the event of a leak, and are simply washed and used again. — Allison Engineering, Basildon, U.K.
When the Heat is on, this Device Keeps Pressure Gauges Cool
Extreme process temperatures reduce the accuracy, reliability, durability and lifespan of a pressure gauge. The Sta-Kool cooling element (photo) was designed specifically with high-temperature processing environments in mind. Under laboratory test conditions, the 316L stainless steel Sta-Kool cooling element was able to reduce 400°F liquid process temperatures to 100°F at the active portion of the Bourdon tube. The Sta-Kool has a maximum operating temperature of 750°F at 3,500 psi operating pressure, and a maximum operating pressure of 5,000 psi at 100°F. It can be either threaded or welded to any pressure gauge with ½-in. NPT male connection made from a compatible material. It can also be attached in between a pressure gauge and diaphragm seal for the most comprehensive process measurement-protection possible, protecting the instrument from both pulsation and temperature extremes. — Ametek US Gauge, Largo, Fla.
This Flowmeter Thrives in Hazardous Environments
The latest addition to the range of Flo-Dar open-channel flowmeter is an ATEX certified portable system with built-in GPRS Internet data transfer facility (photo). This new model enables the entire system to be mounted in the zoned area, with nothing above ground, and provides operators with a range of features and benefits. For example, unlike conventional sensors, it does not require weekly maintenance visits; it has a rechargeable lithium battery that can be recharged in hazardous areas; operators have no contact with the flow during installation; no profiling is required; and it has field-interchangeable sensors and monitors. The system is certified to ATEX Zone 1, works in surge conditions. It is suitable for all pipes and channels from 100 mm upwards. — Flowline Ltd., Borehamwood, U.K.
A Digital Flowmeter that Pretends It’s an Analog Meter
This firm has designed a new series of mass flowmeters that offers an economical, digital alternative to conventional variable-area (VA) meters (also known as purge meters). The new Mass-View flowmeter series (photo) incorporates a digital bar graph of actual gas flow, which is, thanks to the OLED (organic light-emitting diode) technology, clearly visible from all angles, as well as indicating flow units, gas type and totalized figures. Also available with an optional in-built needle valve for flow-control duties, it is designed to mimic the straightforward features and vertical format of the VA meter, but with added benefits of: an electronic output signal; high measuring accuracy; virtual independence from gas temperature and pressure variations; freedom from parallax error; and inherently safe construction, with no glass components in the flow path. — Bronkhorst High-Tech B.V., Ruurlo, Netherlands
This Range of Valves Now Meets DIN Requirements
The new Jamesbury polymeric-seated flanged ball valves (photo, p. 32D-7) are now available in sizes DN15 – 150 in both full-bore and reduced bore. These valves conform to PED and ISO 17292 requirements, and feature a flexible-lip seat design that provides bi-directional shutoff for a variety of applications in industries ranging from chemical and petrochemical to petroleum refining, pulp and paper, and power. The range offers PN10, PN16, PN25 and PN40 drillings with DIN face-to-face according to DIN 3202. Materials are 1.4408 and 1.0619 conforming to AD2000. All valves are anti static and fire-safe according to API 607 edition 4. — Metso Automation, Wittenheim, Alsace, France
This In-Line Sifter is Designed for High-Production Volumes
The QA36, a pneumatic in-line sifter, is designed with a high net screening area and is ideal for operations with moderate to high production volumes. The capacity is over 500 lb/min on soft wheat flour and over 650 lb/min on hard wheat flour using a 30 mesh screen. The QA36 is manufactured with a high level of sanitation in mind, as well as ease of maintenance using lightweight components and formfitting, snap-on neoprene gaskets. This in-line sifter utilizes a gentle gyratory sifting motion and is designed to be directly inserted into a vacuum or dilute-phase pressure-pneumatic conveying system. — Great Western Manufacturing, Leavenworth, Kans.
Screen Classifying Cutter for Hard, Soft or Fibrous Materials
A new Model SCC-15 Screen Classifying Cutter cuts hard, soft or fibrous materials into controlled particle sizes with minimal fines at high rates, according to this firm. The cutter features a patented helical rotor design with dozens of cutter heads attached to a helical array of staggered holders called "interconnected parallelograms" to continuously shear oversize materials against twin, stationary bed knives. Primarily employed for coarse grinding of materials into particles of uniform sizes ranging from granules down to 20 – 30 mesh, the cutter has a 15 in. throat width and can be fitted with 30 parallelograms with 60 cutter inserts. Bed screen perforations range from 1/32 to 1-1/2-in. in diameter and up to 3 in. 2, according to material characteristics and desired particle size. The shaft rotates at 30 to 3600 rpm, producing up to 500 ft 3 /h of sized product, depending on the application. — Munson Machinery Company, Inc., Utica, N.Y.
Accurate Bulk Fluid Measurement for the Oil and Gas Industry
The Optimass 2000, a large diameter Coriolis mass flowmeter that features a twin straight-tube design, is designed for accurate and repeatable bulk measurement in the oil industry. Optimass 2000 is available in three sizes (4, 6 and 10 in.), and its wetted parts are constructed of NACE-compliant duplex stainless steel (ANS 31803). The meter is available with flange ratings up to 1,500 lb, and flange sizes from 4 – 12 in. The Optimass 2000 is CRN approved and can handle process pressures to 2,200 psig with an outer cylinder that can handle burst pressures in excess of 1,500 psi. Flow rates ranging from 250 to 4,400 lb/min. are easily handled by the Optimass 2000 with a measuring accuracy of 0.1%. One major benefit for the oil-and-gas industry is the low flowrate feature. A lower rate of flow prevents the buildup of static in hydrocarbons without affecting measurement accuracy. — Krohne, Peabody, Mass.
Online Machine Diagnosis Via W-LAN
Sometimes it is complicated to access machines and equipment that has to be monitored using measuring instruments due to long distances for cables. Use of a wireless-based solution is considerably more efficient and offers greater potential savings. The C300_Wireless system (photo) is installed in a compact switching cabinet with a transmission module. Installation of the monitoring system is simply the mounting of the sensor, installing a switch-gear unit and laying the spur cable. If a failure occurs in the data link, the measured values are stored locally until connection to a control unit has been restored. The heart of the system — online machine diagnostics — is still based on established methods of measuring and evaluating structure-bourne noise signals and intelligently linking them to process data. — DMT GmbH & Co. KG, Essen, Germany
Kate Torzewski and Gerald Ondrey
This Range of Valves
Now Meets DIN Requirements
The new Jamesbury polymeric-seated flanged ball valves are now available in sizes DN15 – 150 in both full-bore and reduced bore. These valves conform to PED and ISO 17292 requirements, and feature a flexible-lip seat design that provides bi-directional shutoff for a variety of applications in industries ranging from chemical and petrochemical to petroleum refining, pulp and paper, and power. The range offers PN10, PN16, PN25 and PN40 drillings with DIN face-to-face according to DIN 3202. Materials are 1.4408 and 1.0619 conforming to AD2000. All valves are anti-static and fire-safe according to API 607 edition 4. — Metso Automation, Wittenheim, Alsace, France
When the Heat is on, this Device
Keeps Pressure Gauges Cool
Extreme process temperatures reduce the accuracy, reliability, durability and lifespan of a pressure gauge. The Sta-Kool cooling element was designed specifically with high-temperature processing environments in mind. Under laboratory test conditions, the 316L stainless-steel Sta-Kool cooling element was able to reduce 400°F liquid process temperatures to 100°F at the active portion of the Bourdon tube. The Sta-Kool has a maximum operating temperature of 750°F at 3,500 psi operating pressure, and a maximum operating pressure of 5,000 psi at 100°F. It can be either threaded or welded to any pressure gauge with ½-in. NPT male connection made from a compatible material. It can also be attached in between a pressure gauge and diaphragm seal for the most comprehensive process measurement-protection possible, protecting the instrument from both pulsation and temperature extremes. — Ametek US Gauge, Largo, Fla.
A Radical New Platform Design
Delivers Smart Rheology Solutions
Launched last month, the Kinexus rotational rheometer platform (photo) enables users to spend less time learning how to interact with their system and more time investigating ways to characterize and enhance a material’s performance. Fully integrated into the firm’s materials-characterization range, Kinexux delivers high-performance measurement supported by the company’s expertise in complex materials, including macromolecular and multiphase systems. Two systems will be available: Kinexus pro, a high-end rheometer suitable for routine and research applications; and Kinexus ultra, for demanding low-torque applications, such as weakly structured and small-volume sample measurements. — Malvern Instruments Ltd., Malvern, U.K.
Contain Spray-Outs with this Safety Shield
This firm has launched a range of safety shields that provide simple, yet highly effective protection from dangerous spray-outs, which can occur from pressurized pipelines containing diesel, lube oil or other potentially harmful liquids. The shields are designed to wrap around pipe joints, such as flanges, valves, couplings or any type of pipe fitting. It is not intended to contain the leaks indefinitely, but to prevent the hazardous spray that might cause a fire or explosion in zoned hazardous areas, or in the event of contact with hot surfaces. The shields are designed to be removed during maintenance or in the event of a leak, and are simply washed and used again. — Allison Engineering, Basildon, U.K.
This Flowmeter Thrives in Hazardous Environments
The latest addition to the range of Flo-Dar open-channel flowmeters is an ATEX-certified portable system with a built-in GPRS internet data transfer facility. This new model enables the entire system to be mounted in the zoned area, with nothing above ground, and provides operators with a range of features and benefits. For example, unlike conventional sensors, it does not require weekly maintenance visits; it has a rechargeable lithium battery that can be recharged in hazardous areas; operators have no contact with the flow during installation; no profiling is required; and it has field-interchangeable sensors and monitors. The system is certified to ATEX Zone 1 and works in surge conditions. And is suitable for all pipes and channels from 100 mm upwards. — Flowline Ltd., Borehamwood, U.K.
A Digital Flowmeter that Pretends It’s an Analog Meter
This firm has designed a new series of mass flowmeters that offers an economical, digital alternative to conventional variable-area (VA) meters (also known as purge meters). The new Mass-View flowmeter series incorporates a digital bar graph of actual gas flow, which is, thanks to the OLED (organic light-emitting diode) technology, clearly visible from all angles, as well as indicating flow units, gas type and totalized figures. Also available with an optional in-built needle valve for flow-control duties, it is designed to mimic the straightforward features and vertical format of the VA meter, but with added benefits of: an electronic output signal; high measuring accuracy; virtual independence from gas temperature and pressure variations; freedom from parallax error; and inherently safe construction, with no glass components in the flow path. — Bronkhorst High-Tech B.V., Ruurlo, Netherlands
Online Machine Diagnosis Via W-LAN
Sometimes it is complicated to access machines and equipment that has to be monitored using measuring instruments due to long distances for cables. Use of a wireless-based solution is considerably more efficient and offers greater potential savings. The C300_Wireless system is installed in a compact switching cabinet with a transmission module. Installation of the monitoring system is simply the mounting of the sensor, installing a switch-gear unit and laying the spur cable. If a failure occurs in the data link, the measured values are stored locally until connection to a control unit has been restored. The heart of the system — online machine diagnostics — is still based on established methods of measuring and evaluating structure-bourne noise signals and intelligently linking them to process data. — DMT GmbH & Co. KG, Essen, Germany
Control Actuators with this Compact System
The ¼- and ½-in. Actuator Control System (ACS) is a compact range of standard, explosion-proof systems for the control of actuators on process valves. The range comprises solenoid-, spool- and manual-reset valves as well as filter regulators, and may also feature redundant components to prevent unplanned shutdowns. The modular ACS is manufactured in 316L stainless steel. Tested up to 150 bars, the system features an optimized flow path and is lighter, stronger and more compact than conventional panel-mounting assemblies. — ASCO Numatics Ltd., Skelmersdale, U.K.
This safety controller
replaces relays
The SC22-3 safety controller is an efficient solution for connecting several safety devices to machine controls. The controller, developed by partners Banner Engineering, eliminates the need for several dedicated safety relays and integrates input devices, such as emergency stop switches, light screens, two-hand controls, interlocking switches or safety mats, in the machine control. A total of 22 contact-based and PNP solid-state inputs can be monitored, so that a broad range on input types for safety and non-safety devices can be covered. The controller is approved up to and including SIL 3 in accordance with IEC 62061 and IEC61508 as well as Performance Level e in accordance with ISO 13849-1. — Hans Turck GmbH & Co. Hgm Mülheim and der Ruhr, Germany
Keep Biopharmaceuticals from Spoiling when Transported
In many cases, pharmaceutical companies distribute the various production steps for their products between several facilities in one or more countries. In order to save costs, the substances are transported between these locations in a highly concentrated form. Safe transport can usually be ensured only if the easily biopharmaceuticals are frozen. The Zeta Freeze & Thaw system is offered for this application. This system consists of a FreezeController and FreezeContainer. The controller regulates, monitors and documents the process of freezing and thawing the substance, and can direct the cleaning and sanitization of the containers used for the transport. The expansion chamber, an integral component of the control unit in the FreezeController, is filled with silicone oil used as the heat-transfer fluid. The automatically controlled fittings and valves permit blowing out of the double sleeve, the cooling coil and the pre-cooling of the FreezeContainer. — Christ Water Technology Group, Aesch, Switzerland
Convey, Dose & Feed Plastics
with this Continuous System
The latest generation of Graviblend now comes with a fully integrated material conveying system. This means that there are fewer interfaces, it is easier to use and material changes require less time — the result is increased savings, says the firm. The new system also takes up less space than its predecessor. The new Graviblend generation features a fully modular design, and with its integrated material loaders, can convey raw materials from silos, octabins and other storage containers. The system is rated for continuous 24-h operation. It can be used for the continuous conveying, gravimetric dosing and intensive feeding of all freely flowing granular plastics. — Colortronic Systems AG, Hunzenschwill, Switzerland
Gain an Added Layer of Security with this System
Used with the CEM AC2000 range of security-management systems, the S610f fingerprint reader controls access to restricted areas where an additional biometric layer of security is required. Featuring a controller, advanced IP card reader and single biometric solution all in one, the S610f fingerprint reader meets the requirements for three stage identity authentication — card, PIN and biometric verification — using a single device. Unlike comparable solutions that save fingerprint templates only to a smart card, the S610f captures templates on the CEM AC2000 access control equipment station simultaneously with card holder’s personnel details and images. — CEM Systems, Belfast, Northern Ireland
Gas Monitoring Using HART Communications
The Permanent Gas-detection System Ultima X now features HART digital protocol, a bi-directional industrial field communication protocol used to communicate between intelligent field instruments and host systems. With the Ultima XL/XT Gas Monitors, the user has multiple calibration options: the standard HART communicator, a controller or laptop that communicates via a dedicated HART Software and local internal LEDs and pushbuttons. The units are suited for both indoor and outdoor installations. Ultima XL (photo) is explosion-proof with a stainless-steel enclosure, while Ultima XT uses a general-purpose, water- and corrosion-resistant polycarbonate housing. — MSA in Europe, Berlin, Germany
When Speed is High, Consider this Feeder
This new series of a.c.-operated High-speed Feeders is designed specifically for exceptionally high-speed feeding of light, bulky materials. These feeders are said to be ideal for scales and other applications that require high throughput and advanced control. The feeders also feature a quick-stopping characteristic to assure accurate handling of materials for economy and efficiency in mixing, weighing, batching, and packaging and bagging operations. Eight models are available with federate capabilities ranging from 40 to 600 ft3 /h. — Eriez, Erie, Pa.
A Controller for All Your Laboratory Equipment
New components have been added to the Simatic PCS 7 Lab process control system. This system is based on the compact Box PC. It has a space-saving design making it especially suitable for experiments in the laboratory. The ET200pro distributed I/O device has now been integrated into the overall system. The ET200pro I/O module can be installed directly in laboratory equipment thanks to its high degree of protection IP67. Laboratory equipment, such as scales or mixers, can be simply connected the ET200pro via a host of serial interfaces and analog and binary channels. There are also special drivers for connecting such equipment as well as an SER module for supporting eight additional serial RS 232C devices. — Siemens Industry Automation Division, Nuremberg, Germany
Calculate Physical Properties with this Enhanced Software
PhoPhyPlus 2 is a recently-released, advanced software for the calculation of physical properties of pure components and their mixtures over a wide range of temperatures and pressures. It quickly and accurately models thermodynamic (enthalpy, compressibility factor, and so on) and transport properties (specific heat, viscosity and so on), as well as phase equilibria of most fluids found in chemical, petrochemical, petroleum-refining and other industries. ProPhyPlus 2 supplants Prophy Plus, a popular software tool in the field, as a result of many additional features and of a significant change in the graphical user interface. This is a convenient new tool that engineers can easily use in their daily calculations, says the firm. — ProSim, Toulouse, France
This System Performs Calorimetry Mesurements in the Laboratory
The Atlas Calorimetry System has been recently introduced for performing heat-flow and power-compensatory calorimetry measurements. The system can generate power and enthalpy graphs at the click of a button. This, combined with the simple configuration of reaction temperatures, dosing quantities and alarms, will provide chemistry laboratories with an easy, safe and accurate calorimeter system. The system is available with a 250-, 500-, 1,000 or 2,000-mL vacuum-jacketed vessel. — Syrris Ltd., Royston, U.K.
Combined Advantages of Coriolis Meters and Two-Wire Technology
With the launch of the two-wire Micro Motion 2200S transmitter, the value of Coriolis technology has been expanded to the wide range of applications that require loop-powered flow devices. The new meters are especially suitable for upgrading older loop-powered technologies to ELITE-Coriolis meters without adding more power or installing new cable, says the manufacturer. These two-wire meters deliver ±0.10% liquid-flow, and ±0.0005 g/cm 3 liquid-density accuracy in continuous process and mass-balance applications. It has no moving parts and requires no maintenance. Equipped with MVD digital process technology, the 2200S delivers multivariable and diagnostic information via HART communications. The new transmitter is suitable for a range of process conditions and has CSA Class 1 Division 1 or 2 approvals, and ATEX, IECEx, NEPSI Zone 1 and Zone 2 approvals. — Emerson Process Management, Baar, Switzerland
These Solenoid Valves Consume Less Power
The 70 Series direct-acting solenoid valve has been engineered to deliver higher flowrates while consuming less power than both traditional solenoids and competitor valves alike, says the manufacturer. Using 316 stainless steel in the body construction for internal and external protection from liquids and gases, the 70 Series is direct-acting 3/2 hazardous area solenoid valve for the oil, gas and petrochemical industries. The valve is available with connections from ¼ to ½ in. NPT and is Eexd IIC T6 with IP67 Ingress Protection classified, for use in hazardous environments. Compliant with the ATEX Directive and entitled to bear the CE mark, the valve is also IECex certified. Power consumption is 3.5 W at an ambient temperature of – 50 to 60°C. — Midland-ACS, Wolverhampton, U.K.
Simulate Multiphase Flow in a Vessel or a Complete Plant
Released in early August, INPLANT Version 4.1 simulation software rigorously simulates multiphase flow in plant utility and relief networks. Version 4.1 provides the power and flexibility to model applications ranging from a depressurizing study of a single vessel to the design and rating of a complete cooling-water network for an entire petroleum refinery or petrochemical plant. The latest version of INPLANT software now incorporates the recently introduced SIM4ME Portal, which enables the used of INPLANT software via a Microsoft Excel interface. — Invensys Process Systems, Plano, Tex.
Check Surface Cleanliness with this 10-Min Test
In accordance with Good Hygiene Practice and HACCP method, the surfaces that are in contact with food should be monitored daily before starting production activity. Igientest is ready to perform tests that detect in just 10 min, without instruments, if the surface is cleaned sufficiently before starting the work shift. The method is based on the principle that a clean surface should not have protein residuals. A swab is streaked over the surface and then introduced into a test tube that contains a reagent. After 10 min, a color indicates the result. — International Pbi S.p.A., Milan, Italy
A Smaller Controller for When Space is Limited
The Allen-Bradley SLC 500 is a small, chassis-based, modular family of programmable controllers and I/O. The SLCs smaller size means you can use an SLC in applications where you can’t afford the size and overhead of a traditional, full-sized PLC. With its multiple processor choices, numerous power supply options and extensive I/O capacity, the SLC 500 controller allows the creation of a system designed for a given application. — Rockwell Automation, Milwaukee, Wisc.
A New Release of this Plotting Software
PSI-Plot version 8.8 for Windows is the latest release of this software package for technical plotting and data processing. Version 8.8 incorporates all the powerful features found in the previous version plus over 30 new features. These features include: new simplex and Powell methods for nonlinear fitting, dose-response analysis, Weibull analysis, Kaplan-Meier survival estimates, over 100 new predefined fitting models and many others. New plot wizard will create user-desired plot in a more convenient and intuitive way. — Poly Software International, Pearl River, N.Y.
This Mixer is Ideal for Viscous Mixing and Dispersion
The PowerMix includes two separate agitation systems within one mixer. A planetary blade revolves in combination with a separate high-speed dispersion blade. Both revolve on their own axis as well as on a common axis, and the speed of each can be varied independently of the other. This combination allows a user to fine tune the mixer to meet his specific process needs and the shear rates that are required to optimize his process. The PowerMix is used for high viscosity vacuum mixing and dispersion as well as the dispersion of minor liquid or powder ingredients into powder mixes. The PowerMix is available in many sizes from a ½-gal.laboratory unit, through a 750-gal. production model. The unit shown was designed for vacuum operation, included a special light in the vacuum hood, special charging ports, a wall scraper, elevated base and a flush-type discharge valve. — Charles Ross and Son Company, Hauppauge, N.Y.
Manage Hydrogen Hazards in Plant Environments
Hydrogen is a combustible gas that is difficult to detect and easily ignitable on contact with open flames, electrical sparks or static discharge. This fast, ultrasonic gas-leak detector quickly detects the ultrasonic noise generated by the escaping gas at a distance from the leak source. It detects the gas at leak initiation regardless of ventilation rate, gas dilution, or the direction of the leak, and without the gas having to make physical contact with a sensor element. This makes it suitable for detection in vessels and pipes in open and ventilated areas. The detector, which is based on robust microphone technology, has a detection radius for H2 up to 8 m at a leak rate of 0.01 kg/s. The detectors are SIL suitability rated and hold relevant C-UL and ATEX certifications. — General Monitors, Lake Forest, Calif.
Gerald Ondrey and Kate Torzewski
Integrate These Brass Ball Valves into this Firm’s Piping Systems
The Series FBV-3-Press, two-piece, full port, brass ball valves are designed for use in this firm’s ProPress piping systems. Its integral press fitting tailpieces are designed to be quickly and easily pressed into ProPress piping systems and are rated at 200-psi CWP at 210°F. They feature a dezincification-resistant brass body, adjustable packing gland and bottom-loaded, blowout-proof stem with stem O-ring seal. FBV-3-Press valves are UL Listed and ANSI/NSF 61 certified ½ – 2 in. for potable water systems. Available in sizes from ½ to 4 in. — Watts Water Technologies, North Andover, Mass.
Remove this Tank-Mounted Viscosity Sensor Easily for Cleaning
A tank-mounted viscosity sensor is available for both water- and solvent-based applications such as printing, glues and adhesives, that operates at atmospheric pressure and has removable wetted parts. The MXBOC Viscosity Sensor is suitable for use with tanks 7 – 26-in. deep and operates at atmospheric pressure. Featuring a new one-bolt mounting mechanism, the all-stainless-steel wetted parts can be easily removed for cleaning and sterilization without having to disturb the air or electrical connections. Using the "piston time-of-fall" method, the MXBOC measures viscosities from 0.1 to 100,000 cps and is CE and ATEX compliant. It requires 40 psi dry air and a three-way 24-V-d.c. air valve, and is PLC compatible for use with the firm’s process controllers. — Norcross Corp., Newton, Mass.
Sheet Molding Compound Preheater Cuts Cure Time By 50%
A new preheating system for plastic sheet molding compound (SMC) that uses radio frequency heating technology is now available. This new system is reported to enhance the distribution of reinforcement fibers in the molding process, which enhances product quality and strength, reduces press cure time by 50%, and is especially effective for thicker bosses and structures. Facilitating the movement and distribution of fibers throughout molded parts, improving their strength and surface finish, this RF preheater reduces press cure time. Capable of preheating SMC loads up to 30 by 84 in. in under one min., the Macrowave SMC Preheater has a PLC that controls the heat cycle time, power level and conveyor movement to synchronize with the press operation. — Radio Frequency Co., Millis, Mass.