Product Focus: Instrumentation
Thermal Calibrator Works in the Field or in the Lab
The PIEcal Model 525B is an automated calibrator for industrial temperature sensors that accommodates resistance temperature detectors (RTDs) and thermocouples with its built-in National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)-traceable cold junction sensor. The rugged handheld unit can be used with 14 different thermocouple types and two-, three-, or four-wire RTD connections. An extremely stable, low-drift circuit design achieves high accuracy and resolution, making the unit suitable for calibration lab applications. A backlit screen displays both temperature and a precise resistance value when calibrating an RTD.
Saelig Co.
Pressure Sensor Resists Clogging in Dirty Environments
Traditional mechanical pressure gages that are installed on the dirty side of baghouse units often require maintenance to unclog the capillary tubes. To avoid differential pressure spikes and minimize routine tube cleaning, most pulse-jet systems are set to continuously clean, which causes inefficient filtration, loss of filter cake, and increased wear on the filter media. The DP 20T pressure transmitter features a large, durable ceramic diaphragm that resists clogging, making it a reliable alternative to typical tube-style gages that are prone to clogging. The transmitter reduces compressed air consumption and filter replacement frequency, as well as maximizes filter efficiency.
FilterSense
Control Backup System Defends Against Cyber Attacks
As industrial devices become more intelligent, they also become more vulnerable to cyber-security threats. The UPS. 500 is a secure, standalone uninterruptible power supply (UPS) suitable for industrial control systems that may be vulnerable to cyber attacks. It features powerful onboard electronics that manage patented cyber protection layers and enable secure Ethernet communication. Unlike centralized backup systems used to prevent brownouts and other power interruptions, this distributed unit has a small footprint and does not require expensive air conditioning, making it more compatible with the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). A sealed NEMA 4X aluminum housing protects the interior from tampering and allows the device to be used in challenging environments.
Bedrock Automation
Calibration Assistant Performs Wireless Configurations
The 154 highway-addressable remote transducer (HART) calibration assistant is a standalone tablet-based communication tool that simplifies HART configuration. A user can combine it with a 750 Series documenting process calibrator or a 720 Series multifunctional process calibrator to calibrate the range of HART devices often found in the process industries. The Android-based tablet is configured with the FlukeHART mobile app and a long-range wireless HART modem, which connects to the HART transmitter being tested or configured, allowing the technician to wirelessly communicate with the device from up to 250 ft away. Quarterly updates can be downloaded for free from the manufacturer’s website for three years from the first use of the product.
Fluke
Regulator Maintains the Gas Phase of Samples
The EXV regulator vaporizes and maintains the gas phase of gas chromatography (GC) analysis samples during natural gas custody transfer and processing, flare stack emissions monitoring, well-head sampling, and carbonated-beverage analysis. The labyrinth-style flow path keeps the sample in contact with the heated surface longer than in some other units, which minimizes sample condensation through the regulator and across the pressure drop of the seat. The unit’s unique heating method generates more heat in less time using a smaller heater than standard designs. This reduces startup times, minimizes stresses on electronic components, and eliminates the need for dual-phase sampling.
AURA Controls
Indicator/Controller Handles Expansions to Functionality
The 1280 Enterprise Series touchscreen indicator/controller meets the needs of today’s fast-paced operations and can be expanded to handle tomorrow’s requirements. The 7-in. color display and highly customizable graphical user interface allow operators to control functions with real-time visibility. Customizable widgets and softkeys can be placed on multiple screens to create an interface specific to the process, and more than 100 built-in functions simplify programming. The stainless steel NEMA 4X enclosure and wall and panel mounting options enable installation in challenging environments. Up to six smart option cards can be installed to expand functionality.
Rice Lake Weighing Systems
Sensor Assemblies Can Be Installed and Removed During Process Operation
Cleanfit CPA 875 and CPA 871 sensor assemblies allow pH, oxidation-reduction potential (ORP), oxygen, and near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy sensors to be installed and removed during operation. The retractable assemblies allow the sensor to be cleaned, calibrated, or replaced without interrupting the process; the operator simply shifts the sensor from the measuring position to the service position. The CPA 875 is suitable for applications in the pharmaceutical and food and beverage industries where sensors must be removed for maintenance on a regular basis. The CPA 871 boosts safety in the chemical industry and in water and wastewater applications because the assembly protects both the process and operating personnel. The design of the service chamber allows liquid media to drain freely and completely, and solid deposits are easily loosened and removed during cleaning.
Endress+Hauser
New Products
Materials and Chemicals
Anode Binder Increases Li-Ion Battery Capacities
The Soteras MSi anode binder increases the capacity of lithium-ion batteries by as much as 30%. The water-based binder controls swelling when used with silicon-based materials, such as silicon oxide, silicon composite, silicon oxide composite, and silicon graphene, which improves cycle performance at capacities greater than 400 mA-hr/g. Because the anode binder can be easily processed using standard industry practices, users do not need to substantially alter their standard manufacturing processes.
Ashland, Inc.
Heat Transfer
Bio-Based Heat-Transfer Fluid Is Nontoxic
One of the main drivers for harnessing the power of the sun’s thermal energy is to reduce dependence on fossil fuels. However, a closer look at many solar systems reveals that they are often filled with petroleum-based heat-transfer fluids. So-Blue bio-based heat-transfer fluid for solar systems addresses this incongruity. This nontoxic, petroleum-free fluid is a high-performance alternative for newer solar systems that reach much higher temperatures. It contains rust inhibitors to protect against corrosion and buildup in pipes, which can degrade performance, cause system failures, and shorten the lifespan of the system. The fluid is designed to function in extreme-heat conditions, and during freezing conditions it acts as an antifreeze to prevent pipes from bursting.
SolarUS
Self-Sealing Wrap Protects Insulation
PITTWRAP B100 aluminum-butyl wrap is a self-sealing jacketing material that is formulated for protecting FOAMGLAS insulation systems in high-traffic areas. Its high-tack butyl adhesive and 3-layer aluminum and polyester films provide protection against punctures and tears. The wrap can be sealed using manual pressure, eliminating the need for a torch or heater. It is suitable for use on pipelines and equipment operating at temperatures above and below ambient, on commercial chilled water lines, as freeze-thaw protection on liquefied natural gas (LNG) installations, and in a variety of cold and cryogenic applications. It is not intended for below-ground or indoor use.
Pittsburgh Corning
Heat-Transfer Fluids Are Available in Ethylene- and Propylene-Glycol Versions
These glycol-based heat-transfer fluids are designed for use in closed primary and secondary heating, cooling, and refrigeration systems. Ethylene glycol and propylene glycol formulations are available to meet a variety of needs. The fully inhibited glycol fluids are intended for applications where no incidental contact with humans, food, or beverage products could occur. The glycol solutions are manufactured from new, virgin glycol, and the inhibitor package is formulated of food-grade ingredients. The inhibitor is blended into the glycol in accordance with tightly controlled manufacturing procedures.
Mokon
Fluids and Solids Handling
Sludge Conditioner Enhances Water Recovery
SimFloc is an inline mixer that simply and cost-effectively improves sludge handling operations by reducing polymer usage and increasing water recovery. The system can be inserted into an existing process with minimal modifications. It features an easy-to-clean design, stainless steel wetted parts, a nonragging impeller, and an inspection port. Users will benefit from higher solids cake concentrations, increased water recovery, and lower sludge hauling and disposal costs. Processes that incorporate this mixer may also find that dewatering devices, such as filter presses, belt presses, screw presses, and centrifuges, perform better.
Hayward Gordon
Gear Motor Drive Aids Material Handling Activities
The Sinamics G11M motor-integrated drive for Simogear gear motors offers flexible control, integrated safety measures, simple installation, and a space-saving design. It can be used in most material handling applications, including conveying, warehousing, logistics, bagging, cargo handling, and shipping. Plug connections for onboard I/O enable fast installation, and optional power connectors deliver even more time-saving benefits. Internal braking resistors and motor brakes, as well as an integrated quick-stop function, make this system particularly suited to conveying applications.
Siemens
Fine Grinders Operate in Explosion-Sensitive Environments
An electrical spark generated by ball bearings rubbing together or the flick of a light switch can set off a dust explosion in plants that handle fine particles, injuring personnel and causing property damage. This line of fine grinding mills provides explosion-pressure shock resistance up to 10 bar (145 psi). The grinders have large capacities and simple maintenance requirements, and provide precise control of the finished particle size. An optional bearing monitoring system measures bearing temperatures and vibration to provide early warning of premature bearing failure and enable a rapid response. The bearings are conveniently located outside of the grinding zone, which is a more sanitary design and allows monitoring of both bearings.
Prater Industries
Screen Classifying Cutter Generates Uniform Pieces
The Magnum Model 72 screen classifying cutter reduces the size of solids at higher rates than standard models of equivalent size. The cutter features an 18-in.-dia. rotor (instead of the standard 10.5-in.-dia. rotor), and contains a 72-in.-long helical array of 72 interconnected elements that hold 288 carbide cutter tips. The tips continuously shear oversized materials against twin, stationary bed knives to produce uniform pieces with minimal imperfections or fines and little to no heat generation. Material is fed through the top of an adjustable, double-baffled intake chute, or directly into the front of the chute through a hinged door. Discharge is by gravity, pneumatic collection, or an independently powered belt or screw conveyor.
Munson Machinery Co.
Environmental, Health, and Safety
Venting System Manages Combustible Dust Explosion Risks
The Q-Rohr-3 product line is now approved for use with dusts, gases, hybrid mixtures, and metal dusts. The flameless venting system consists of a specialized stainless steel mesh construction and a rupture disc. In the event of a fire, it extinguishes flames and reduces pressure, noise, and dust to negligible levels. The system allows dust collectors or other enclosures to be located indoors.
Rembe, Inc.
Software & Information Technology
Application Provides Direct Access to Assets and Data
Seeq R12 gives engineers and operations analysts in the chemical process industries (CPI) rapid access to asset and operations data. It introduces a new generation of advanced trending functionality with innovative search, data visualization, collaboration, and knowledge-capture features. In some cases, the application can perform in a matter of minutes work that would previously have taken days — a benefit for busy engineers charged with investigating or improving yield, quality, safety, or margins. The composite search function combines results from multiple time-series searches — for example, a search for temperature greater than 100°F and a different search for relative humidity below 90%. Capsules, which are data objects that represent a time period of interest and related data, can be added or compared to each other using the capsule logic functionality.
Seeq
Spectroscopy Software Facilitates Instrument Networking
The Vision Air spectroscopy software for routine analysis measurements is compatible with visible and near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy instruments. By focusing on sample analysis parameters and trends rather than spectra, the software increases the information density obtained from NIR spectroscopy measurements. It includes an intuitive user interface for fast measurements and straightforward data interpretation. An integrated and powerful networking system provides maximum control over all connected instruments across multiple facilities. Operators in each facility will benefit from consistent configurations and methods that are updated simultaneously. Users can develop analysis models or use a model developed by and stored on the manufacturer’s server.
Metrohm
Modeling Tool Makes Sense of pH
Virtual process tools can help solve real problems in a powerful and cost-effective way. The Real-Time pH process modeling and control simulation software is a virtual plant software family that helps engineers learn how the pH of a process behaves. This knowledge allows users to effectively control the often extremely nonlinear variable to comply with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) wastewater discharge standards and save chemical reagents. Built on National Instruments’ LabVIEW platform, which is familiar to many engineers, the software features pH diagrams and various acid-base pH models that are delivered as LabView’s VIs (virtual instruments). Users can design and test their pH control systems using the pH models running in real time, and can compare data to control simulations.
CyboSoft
Software Gives Insight into Metabolic Pathways
Researchers can analyze qualitative metabolic flux with MassHunter VistaFlux, which tracks the various pathways a metabolite participates in during biological experiments. The software speeds up the analysis of clinical research data so scientists and engineers can quickly understand the underlying cause of a disease. Users will be able to more easily analyze data from targeted metabolic flux experiments when using the manufacturer’s liquid-chromatography/mass-spectrometry systems.
Agilent Technologies
Viewer Enables File Sharing
Origin Viewer is a native Mac application that works in conjunction with the Origin and OriginPro data analysis and graphing software packages. The application enables users to view and copy graph or worksheet information from Origin Project (OPJ) files and share those files with colleagues working in a Mac environment. The viewer is compatible with Mac OS X 10.7.0 or later and is free to download from the manufacturer’s website.
OriginLab
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