HiPace M (photo) is a new series of magnetically levitated turbopumps that cover the pumping speeds of 300, 700 and 800 L/s and achieve high compression ratios for all gases. A special rotor design delivers unlimited rotor service life and dependable operation, says the manufacturer. With Protection Class IP 54, these pumps are suitable for use in industrial environments. The low, dynamic magnetic field does not interfere with even highly sensitive nearby equipment, a feature that makes the pumps ideal for analytical, coatings and semiconductor and R&D applications. The pumps feature an integrated electronic-drive unit that reduces the need for costly and cumbersome cabling. Both the power consumption and run-up time have been reduced. — Pfeiffer Vacuum GmbH, Asslar, Germany
This firms offering of valves, actuators and intelligent controllers has been extended with the introduction of SIL-certified ball valves. Trunnion and seat-supported modular ball valve series X (photo) and M are classified and certified by Lloyd’s in accordance with IEC 61508, Type A equipment. The SIL assessment study with field-proven reliability analysis confirms that the X and M Series ball valves can be used in applications up to and including SIL 3 in a single-valve configuration. — Metso Automation Oy, Helsinki, Finland
www.metso.com/iesdThe MI3 Series of infrared (IR) temperature measurement sensors (photo) features a stainless-steel, IP 65 housing. The miniature pyrometer with integrated electronics is said to be the smallest fully functional, stand-alone IR temperature sensor for fixed installations. All operating parameters are accessed and configured through a standard interface with a large, backlit LCD display, or with the firm’s DataTemp Multidrop software via the USB 2.0 digital interface. — Raytek, Santa Cruz, Calif.
www.raytek.comLast month’s launch of the iXL 120 (photo) expands this firm’s range of dry pumps for use in semiconductor manufacturing processes. Designed for load lock and other clean applications, the iXL 120 provides the fastest pumpdown in its class and low energy consumption for high throughput and low cost of ownership, says the firm. With a peak pumping speed of 110 m3/h, the iXL 120 is 22% faster than any other pump with a 20-L chamber. The average energy consumption is only 550 W — one of the lowest in its class. Unlike most competing dry pumps, the iXL 120 incorporates oil-lubricated precision bearings and timing gears, which reduces vibrations during operation. The new pump also features a zero nitrogen purge option for processes that do not use corrosive gases. This option eliminates the need to provide N2 to the pump, thereby simplifying operation and reducing operating costs. — Edwards, Crawley, U.K.
www.edwardsvacuum.comThis firm has extended line sizes for the Fisher Control Disk valve (photo), which offers excellent throttling performance and is suitable for applications that involve fast processes and varying pressure drops. The valve’s control range is said to be twice that of traditional butterfly valves for better adherence to set point. The new sizes are designed for installation between ASME Class 150 or Class 300 raised-face flanges with flangless (wafer) or single flange (lugged) body designs. Face-to-face dimensions are in compliance with API 609 and MSS SP-68 standards. — Emerson Process Management, Baar, Switzerland
www.emersonprocess.comThis new type of spray nozzle is designed with the largest internal flow passages available of its type to ensure clog-resistant capability in an axial, full-force nozzle. The MaxiPass L (photo) is ideal for low-flow (as low as 0.44 L/min) spraying applications where there may be contaminated or dirty liquids that can cause clogging problems with other types of nozzles. The nozzle incorporates the same critical internal S-shaped vanes that are used in the MaxiPass large-low nozzle. Available in 1/8 and 1/4-in. pipe connection sizes, the MaxiPass L delivers a full-cone spray pattern in either narrow, medium or wide spray angles. — BETE Ltd., Lewes, U.K.
www.beteuk.comThis firm is expanding its line of analytical transmitters with Element neutrino analytical transmitters (photo) for use with different sensor types. The modular transmitters can be used for measuring pH, ORP or conductivity. The new transmitters feature a patented variable-electrical connection for pH electrodes, which makes it possible to use most pH electrodes with a 12-mm dia. and an S7 connection. The option of selecting from three cell constants (0.01, 0.1 or 1.0) for measuring conductivity ensures maximum versatility when exchanging sensors, as well as adaptability to the required task. An integrated Pt1000 sensor enables temperature compensation, and the temperature values can also be output as a 4–20-mA signal for use as a second process variable in the unit. — Bürkert Fluid Control Systems, Ingelfingen, Germany
www.burkert.comManufactured in France for the European market, Contec Sterile 70% Isopropanol (photo) is adapted for use in critical clean environments and recommended for regular, effective removal of surface residues and contaminants. Ready to use formulation eliminates mixing, filtration, processing and quality control expense of in-house production, says the firm. Sterilized by gamma irradiation using validated processes, the isopropanol reduces endotoxin levels to below 0.25 EU/mL. — Contec, Inc., Spartanberg, S.C.
www.contecinc.comThe SHT (super high temperature) vibrating rod (photo) features a piezo system built specifically for higher process temperatures up to 482°F (250°C). The design of the patented reinforced membrane and the piezo system’s insulation tube, which insulates the electronics from excessive heat, makes the SHT extremely durable, says the firm. The unit can be used for all kinds of powdered or granular solids, from very light, fluffy materials with a minimum material density of 1.25 lb/ft3 (20 g/L) to a maximum granular size of 1.5 in (40 mm). The level sensor can be used to prevent overfills or can be installed as a high-, mid- or low-level alarm. — BinMaster, Lincoln, Neb.
www.binmaster.comThe new Disc Mill LM 3310 (photo) offers improvements over its predecessor (LM 3303), including: reduced noise with a new built-in motor; easy disc-distance setting and start/stop on the front of the mill; and improved procedure for disc change and distance control. Grinding chamber dimensions as well as the grinding discs of the LM 3310 are the same as the LM 3303, and particle size, particle size distribution and moisture loss are also the same as the previous model. The mill is suitable for grinding pellets, grain and other products for moisture and other analyses. — Perten Instruments, Stockholm, Sweden
www.perten.comInternal electrochemical corrosion can cause leaks in single- and double-walled tanks over time. The Eurovac NV leak detector (photo) is a vacuum-type leak detector according to EN 13160-2, Class 1. The device is suitable for detection of leaks in tanks containing flammable liquids of group and danger class A III and AdBlue (32.5% urea solution). The Eurovac NV is approved for single- and double-walled tanks (cylindrical, rectangular or spherical) made of concrete, asbestos cement, plastic and other approved materials for double-walled tanks, and tanks with inner linings. The system contains all display elements and controls, electronics, a vacuum pump, a pressure switch, a filter and three hose connections. — Afriso-Euro-Index GmbH, Güglingen, Germany
www.afriso.deMineral-free and made of high-purity cellulose, the new Becopad depth-filter medium (photo) offers very high filtration performance, high chemical resistance and strength, and minimum ion release. The range of applications includes haze reduction for fine chemical products, catalyst separation and demanding separation tasks in the production of pharmaceutical products. By reducing the rinsing volume by 50%, this new filter medium saves costly rinsing solutions and reduces rinsing times. The depth filters are fully washable and 100% biodegradable. — E. Begerow GmbH & Co., Langenlonsheim, Germany
www.begerow.comThe new In-Flow mass flowmeters (photo) are modular instruments of rugged design according to IP 65 (dust- and waterproof). They can be combined with integrated or closed-coupled control valves to form compact digital Mass Flow controllers, delivering measured and controlled flow ranges of 10–200 mL/min up to 50–5,000 mL/min. The ATEX approval for use of these instruments in Category 3, Zone 2 hazardous areas is pending. The devices have analog I/O signals and an RS 232 connection as standard, with the possibility of integrating an interface board with DeviceNet, Profibus-DP, Modbus or FLOW-BUS protocol. — Bronkhorst High-Tech B.V., Ruurlo, the Netherlands
www.bronkhorst.comThe new, heavy-duty motion-sensing switch Sitrans WM100 (photo) is used to detect the absence or presence of motion on rotating, reciprocating or conveying equipment. The devices act as an early warning system to avoid costly process interruptions and equipment breakdowns. Located outside of the process, Sitrans WM100 can be mounted up to 100 mm (4 in.) from the ferrous target. The motion sensors provide the contacts to shutdown machinery whenever zero speed is detected. On belt, drag and screw conveyors, or on bucket elevators, fans and pumps, the zero-speed alarm option can warn of equipment malfunctions. — Siemens Industry Sector, Industry Automation Div., Nuremberg, Germany
www.siemens.comEasyMax 102 is a semi-automated chemical-synthesis reactor system that replaces traditional, more cumbersome synthesis processes that rely on round-bottom flasks, oils and ice baths. Requiring almost no setup and operated by a simple touchpad, EasyMax has a built-in solid-state thermostat covering a wide temperature range (–40 to 180°C) without a cryostat. The iC Software Suite included with EasyMax integrates the entire experimental workflow; data can be collected or stored in-unit, and transferred to PC via USB. — Mettler Toledo, Schwerzenbach, Switzerland
www.mt.com/easymaxNext month at Pack Expo 2010 (Chigago, Ill., October 31–November 3), this firm will exhibit one of its latest Bulk Bag Fillers (photo) with new features that increase the number of bags that can be filled per hour while reducing operator fatigue and maintaining filling accuracy — even for NTEP resale applications. Many standard operating features are included in all the firm’s weigh fillers, enabling the processor to begin immediate production without the need for extra equipment. In addition to the built-in features of the standard units, a full range of options is provided, allowing many other operations to be performed from the same machine. — Spiroflow Systems, Inc., Charlotte, N.C.
www.spiroflowsystems.comThe new CN Series of multiple clean-break quick-coupling systems (photo) is designed for industrial filling systems where a mix-up of media could have dire consequences. The coupler features a cam-lock action, which facilitates the connection, even at residual pressure. The operator only has to turn the coupling by 120 deg to lock it and to quickly connect the lines. During this rotary motion, the valves are opened. Very little effort is needed for connection since the axial forces required to operate the internal valves are reduced by the cam action. The CN Series is suitable for the transfer of aggressive or hazardous fluids. These couplings are available in nominal sizes of 25, 40 50, 80 and 100 mm. Depending on the size, the nominal pressure ranges from 10 to 25 bar. — Walther-Präzision, Carl Kurt Walther GmbH & Co. KG, Haan, Germany
www.walther-praezision.deThe DXL Series Compact Scissors Lift (photo) features a smaller footprint than standard lifts, while offering a full 2,000 lb of lifting capacity. The double-scissor mechanism allows for a low 6-in. collapsed height while providing a 42-in. raised height. A foot switch operates a 1/3 h.p. motor. The unit comes with an 18 in. x 30 in. platform as standard. — Presto Lifts Inc., Attleboro, Mass.
www.prestolifts.comThis firm has introduced a new product line engineered specifically for the storage of intermediate bulk containers (IBCs). With increased point-of-use, the firm designed single- and double-tote storage lockers. The units are offered in both non-fire rated and 2-h fire-rated models. Both models offer oversized sumps to accommodate the extra storage needed by the tote containers, but have also been designed specifically to keep them within the size restrictions necessary to ship via enclosed trailers. — Safety Storage, Inc., Charleston, Ill.
www.safetystorage.comThe Monobloc Fill/Finish Packaging System accommodates different container sizes and shapes. These systems can perform a wide range of tasks, such as sorting, feeding, filling, plugging, stoppering, crimping, induction sealing, labeling and accumulating. All Monoblocs are digitally controlled with menu-driven programs that electronically adjust operating parameters. — Filamatic, a div. of National Instruments LLC, Baltimore, Md.
www.filamatic.comA combination bulk bag and manual dump batching system (photo) weighs bulk materials that are discharged from bulk bags or manually dumped from sacks, boxes and other containers, and empties the batch into mobile storage bins. The sanitary system consists of a bulk bag unloading frame, two hoppers and two flexible screw conveyors that feed a center gain-in-weight hopper under automated control. The unloader features a Spout-Lock clamp ring that forms a high-integrity seal between the clean side of the bag and the clean side of the equipment. Material contact surfaces are of stainless steel finished to sanitary standards, with the exception of removable, polymer conveyor tubes. — Flexicon Corp., Bethlehem, Pa.
www.flexicon.comThis firm has teamed up with Pactiv Corp. to supply Hefty Slide-Rite slider customers with an improved filling and opening feature for heavier (15–65 lb) bagged products. The challenge for slider bags that are bottom-filled is to minimize the fill force against the slider assembly, while making it easy for users to open and access contents. Until now, packagers had been lining the entire bag with peel-seal film. The co-developed alternative uses a 1/2-in. wide strip that replaces several feet of expensive film. — Rollprint Packaging Products, Addison, Ill.
www.rollprint.com