The New-Seal technology (photo) provides zero-leakage sealing of bulk solids for screw conveyors, paddle or ribbon mixers, rotary valves, mixers, blenders and agitators at temperatures up to 300°F. Externally pressurized gas-bearing technology (supplied at 4 bars) maintains seal-gap pressures at 2 bars while reducing buffer-gas flow consumption to 0.5 std. ft 3 /min. Therefore, nothing at a pressure lower than 2 bars will flow across or into the seal face, because the seal gap pressure is higher than that of the opposing powder, fluid or gas. Even at 0 rpm, the seal faces do not touch, enabling New-Seal to be a friction- and maintenance-free design, according to the company. Large radial, angular and axial error motions can be accommodated. New-Seal is available for shafts ranging from 1 to 40 in. in diameter. — New Way Air Bearings, Aston, Pa.
The clog-resistant Hydroclaw tank-cleaning head impacts a jet of water on a claw-like plate, which shatters the fluid into a 360-deg pattern, effectively covering the whole tank. Traditional cleaning heads typically have multiple small orifices that form a 360-deg cleaning pattern. As there is only a single orifice for the cleaning fluid to pass through, the overall free passage is dramatically increased (between 3 to 5 times higher, says the manufacturer), allowing for liquid with high particle content (for particles over 7.6 mm in diameter) to be used as the cleaning media. The HydroClaw is made from FDA-compliant 316L stainless steel, making it suitable for food-grade and aseptic clean-in-place (CIP) applications. It has no moving parts and is self-draining, self-flushing and is laser-welded for optimum durability. The HydroClaw is designed to fit through a 76-mm opening and is available with a variety of connection types. — Bete Ltd., Lewes, U.K.
The new FlowCam Nano particle analyzer features Nano-Flow particle-imaging technology that provides digital images of particles ranging in size from 300 nm to 30µm (photo). The system automatically reveals protein agglomerates, silicon oil droplets, glass shards and other opaque, transparent and translucent sub-visible particles with the high-resolution imagery needed for identification. Particle analyzers based on light obscuration, dynamic light scattering, Brownian motion or the Coulter Principle are unable to image these particles and allow for their identification. In addition, the FlowCam Nano may serve as a valuable companion to USP 788 compliance testing methods for particulate matter by documenting the presence and type of nano-scale particles, which may cause failed test results. The FlowCam particle imaging and analysis family of instruments now encompasses six models engineered to analyze particles ranging from 300 nm to 5 mm in size. — Fluid Imaging Technologies, Scarborough, Maine
The new Micro PLC VIPA Control (photo) is an ultra-compact standalone PLC featuring high channel density. The system has a width of less than 72 mm, making it up to 50% smaller than typical micro controllers, says the manufacturer. Designed as a standalone PLC, the Micro PLC incorporates a new display and an operating concept that enables users to easily see essential control information. It is based on the latest Speed 7 technology, which ensures fast program processing for precise positioning and diverse control tasks. Other features include high channel density thanks to the 30 integrated digital and analog I/O channels, and the system can also be expanded with up to an additional eight modules. Convenient push-in technology helps to minimize downtime and speed up maintenance because the plugs can be mounted and replaced quickly and easily without the need for tools. — Yaskawa Europe GmbH, Eschborn, Germany
The SCP Series of pumps (photo) for Class 1 and 2 flammable liquids is designed to minimize hazards associated with transferring flammable or combustible chemicals, such as alcohols, solvents and volatile hydrocarbons. SCP pumps allow for spill-free, environmentally safe transfer with no chance for vapors and VOCs to escape the container. This significantly reduces the chance of an ignition event. The pump features a grounding wire and a bonding wire, and is made of conductive plastic, allowing users of flammable liquids to ground the pumps, making them safe for use with Class 1 and 2 flammable materials. All pump components that come into contact with the fluid are created with conductive polypropylene, so there is grounding of the liquid and the pump. These pumps also meet the requirements of NFPA 77, which requires that the path to ground must prevent the accumulation of static electricity in conductive equipment. — GoatThroat Pumps, Milford, Conn.
This company has introduced a new range of low-VOC coatings that provide 100%-solids epoxy lining performance. The coatings are reinforced and are capable of providing longterm protection under industrially corrosive environments ranging from immersion conditions (temperatures up to 180°F) to vapor conditions (temperatures up to 250°F), says the company. The products can be applied by conventional spray or manual methods. The product line includes: SF/LF, a 100% solids high-build coating system used primarily in marine and wastewater sites; STP ep-hv, a surface-tolerant, high-viscosity, high-build coatings system; CN 1M V15H3, a nanoparticle-reinforced epoxy phenolic resin for aggressive chemical exposures; Synthofloor 8016, a low-viscosity, epoxy primer and sealer formulated to be used as a primer or augmented with clean dry silica sand and used as a sparge coat; and Synthofloor 8463, a low-viscosity, self-leveling epoxy floor coating for mild to moderate chemical resistance that also can be bulked up with clean dry silica sand to be used as a high-build, wear-resistant coating. — Ceramic Polymer GmbH, a Chesterton International Subsidiary, Roedinghausen, Germany
The CGS-FlexVu UD10 combustible-gas detection system combines a catalytic-bead gas sensor with a multifunction universal display for detection of a wide range of hydrocarbon gases, as well as hydrogen, in harsh industrial environments. The explosion-proof system is third-party rated for safety integrity level (SIL) 2, and is suitable for high-temperature (up to 75°C) and hydrogen-processing applications, as well as in relative humidities up to 95%. The universal display also provides output and control capabilities, and can be used to calibrate and view information. The device features nonintrusive calibration using a handheld magnetic tool or a HART communicator and can be easily calibrated by one person. The display unit provides a linear isolated/non-isolated 4–20-mA output signal (with HART). — Det-Tronics, Minneapolis, Minn.
The new Masterflex L/S Cytoflow pump head (photo) was developed specifically for pumping live cells and shear-sensitive fluids in biopharmaceutical and microbiology applications. The Cytoflow pump head has a large-diameter rotor, resulting in high flowrates at low motor speeds. The pump head is available in two- and three-roller configurations — two-roller heads offer higher flowrates, while three-roller heads deliver less pulsation. The pump head is compatible with all Masterflex L/S drives that accept two or more pump heads. In addition to the high flowrates at low motor speeds, the Cytoflow pump head has a convex roller design that minimizes the impact on live cells and maintains the consistency of shear-sensitive fluids. — Cole-Parmer, Vernon Hills, Ill.
Series UP6 electric gear pumps (photo) feature the option for built-in pressure control, whereby a factory-programmed pressure setting is maintained via a microprocessor-based variable pump-speed control circuit that utilizes an internal pressure sensor for loop feedback. UP6 pumps are self-priming and come equipped with 12- or 24-V d.c. motors. The pumps can handle flowrates as high as 6.9 gal/min, and pressures up to 29 psi, making them appropriate for small water- and chemical-processing systems. The pumps feature helical bronze gears, a nickel-plated brass body and stainless-steel shaft. The operating temperature range for UP6 pumps is 14 to 140°F. Suitable pumping media include water or diesel fuel with viscosity between 2 and 5.35 cSt. A 250–400 μm filter is recommended for applications where the fluid media contains particles. — Clark Solutions, Hudson, Mass.
This company’s Eden sensors (photo) now feature a solid-state, board-level design with radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology for increased resistance to vibration and greater security. RFID technology allows for large sensing distances and its vibration resistance decreases the risk of involuntary stops that are common in older technologies. The entire Eden line is IP69K rated, making these safety sensors suitable for applications that require resistance to dust and liquid ingress, such as washdown operations in food-and-beverage processing plants. Eden Dynamic safety sensors use dynamic-pulse, single-channel safety architecture and comply with Category 4/Performance Level e (Cat. 4/PLe) per EN/ISO 13849, indicating that failure of an individual device will not result in the loss of safety function. According to the manufacturer, the Eden product line also introduced the capability of uniquely coding safety sensors to comply with the demands of EN/ISO 14119 for hazardous applications. Eden safety sensors also have flexible, 360-deg mounting and a temperature range of –40 to 158°F. — ABB Jokab Safety Products, Westland, Mich.
The newest release of the PlantState Suite (PSS) software, version 8.3, includes the new Alarm Mechanic feature, which is designed to improve console operator performance by minimizing nuisance alarms through automated analytics and recommendations. With the addition of Alarm Mechanic, PSS 8.3 fully automates complex analyses that determine alarm delay-time settings, a critical method for solving nuisance alarm problems. Alarm Mechanic replaces manual calculations and guesswork with automated, deterministic recommendations to enable consistent alarm settings. PSS 8.3 also incorporates custom alarm analytics, corporate operational excellence programs and risk-tracking dashboards. — PAS Global, LLC, Houston
This company’s new, patent-pending pneumatic trip system (photo) with partial-stroke actuation provides quick testing of turbine trip systems while the equipment is still running. There is no disruption to production, and the trip valve will still work if an overspeed event occurs while testing is in progress. The pneumatic trip system verifies functionality without tripping the turbine and operates independently of the overspeed trip system. It can be initiated locally and remotely via a distributed control system (DCS). Adaptable to any equipment configuration, this system can be retrofitted onto existing equipment or affixed to new machines. The system provides a more cost-effective alternative to trip and throttle valves. — Elliott Group, Jeannette, Pa.
The Crossover 1540 overhead mixer (photo) features a 0.5-hp motor delivering 3,000 N∙cm of torque for effective mixing in large laboratory, pilot-scale and small production volumes. The portable Crossover is designed to mix up to 200-L (50-gal) drum volumes from 50 to 1,500 rpm, with the option of clockwise or counterclockwise rotation. New to this product is the resistive touchscreen, allowing operation without removing gloves, which displays speed, time and torque during operation. Installation requires only a standard 120-V cord set and four-bolt mounting, and the mixer is said to be maintenance free. Mounting options include a C-clamp that is compatible with the side of a drum or a vertical plate, or a plate mount for a more permanent or custom installation. Other accessories that are available include large 4- and 6-in. propellers and shafts, as well as replaceable touchscreen protector covers. — Caframo Lab Solutions, Georgian Bluffs, Ont., Canada
This company now offers metal-detectable (MD) and X-ray-inspectable (XRI) seal and gasket options on its magnetic separation equipment for gravity-fed and pneumatic-line conveying applications. The new seal and gasket options protect against elastomeric contamination in the processing line. Component parts can degrade over time due to low conductivity, and standard elastomeric material is often missed by even the most sensitive detection systems. The new offerings include the Detectomer line (photo) of Buna rubber seals and silicone gaskets, which all contain a select additive that can be spotted by metal detectors, X-ray systems and optical scanners, as well as be captured by magnetic separators. Available for products with 1- and 3-in. magnetic circuit configurations, the seals and gaskets are certified food-grade compliant, meeting the FDA Code of federal regulations for food safety. Users with existing magnetic separation equipment who wish to upgrade to the new MD/XRI seals and gaskets may also purchase a retrofit kit. — Industrial Magnetics, Inc. (IMI), Boyne City, Mich.
The new TopDrive piston pump system (photo, p. 28) for cleanup applications features a fully-interchangeable drive assembly that allows for easy transitions between hand, solar, electric and top-drive pneumatic pumping without removing the well seal. This feature provides additional flexibility in pumping applications and the ability to pump most fluids under a wide range of operating conditions. Other design elements of the TopDrive piston pump include an interchangeable lower pump, which allows an upgrade to a higher flowrate, and an adjustable drop assembly with 5- or 10-ft lengths, optimizing pump inlet depth. The pneumatic-drive assembly features a linear bearing in addition to the internal pneumatic-drive cylinder bearing, which is designed to increase the durability and life span of the pump. — QED Environmental Systems, Inc., Dexter, Mich.
The new Twist-Lok dry disconnect coupler (photo) features 316 stainless-steel construction and an integral heavy-duty swivel to aid connection and minimize hose wear. In addition, this new coupler is designed with several safety features for the operator, such as the ability to be fully interlocked when connected, while it includes a locking mechanism in the open position. Product selectivity is also available via mechanical keying to minimize risk of cross-contamination. Twist-Lok couplers are offered in 1-, 2-, 3- and 4-in. sizes (with larger sizes available upon request) and are available with a range of seal materials. The Twist-Lok is pressure-rated up to 360 psi, making it appropriate for high-pressure applications. It is also suitable for vacuum service. — OPW Engineered Systems, Inc., Lebanon, Ohio
The GSM-60 hazardous-gas monitoring system (photo) is designed with an internal sampling pump and can use both internal sensors and remote sensor transmitters to continuously monitor up to four gases. The instrument is capable of utilizing an array of sensor technologies: infrared (IR), electrochemical (EC), photoionization detector (PID), metal oxide semiconductor (MOS), and catalytic (CAT). The GSM-60 can be configured to monitor a wide range of chemicals in ambient air, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs), carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, oxygen, trace hydrocarbons, as well as many toxic and industrial gases. Additionally, the GSM-60 is capable of monitoring reactive gases, such as arsine, chlorine dioxide, ethylene oxide, hydrogen fluoride and ozone. The system is designed for monitoring ambient air in difficult environments, including the headspaces of tanks, HVAC ductwork, VOC-scrubber exhausts and wastewater-treatment plants. — Enmet, LLC, Ann Arbor, Mich.
The Series 1600 horizontal vortex sump pump (photo) features a fully recessed vortex impeller design that provides an unrestricted flow, since the impeller is not normally in contact with the solids being pumped. Industrial process applications include slurries, fragile food processing, pulpy solids, oils, pollution control and wastewater treatment. The pumps can handle solids up to 4-in. in diameter. The Series 1600 is designed for severe services with heads to 170 ft, temperatures to 250°F with flows to 1,600 gal/min. Construction options include cast iron, 316 stainless-steel fitted, all 316 stainless-steel, Alloy 20 and CD4MC. Two models are available: Model 1620 has a 0.875-in. shaft diameter with a 1.25-in. sleeve, while Model 1626 has a 1.25-in. shaft diameter with a 1.625-in. diameter sleeve. All impellers have wiping vanes that reduce axial loading and prevent dirt from entering the sealing area. The impeller is keyed to the shaft, and an impeller locking screw assures positive attachment. The vortex-type concentric design casing has extra heavy wall thickness for corrosion allowance. — Vertiflo Pump Co., Cincinnati, Ohio