Disperse powders in a single pass
The Ytron inline powder disperser (photo) is specifically designed to disperse extremely difficult-to-wet powders such as polymers, into a liquid stream in a single pass. Powder incorporation is achieved by the presence of significant vacuum in the reactor housing generated by the liquid seal created between the rotor and stator. This vacuum ensures that powders from the hopper above are drawn into the reactor head, where the particles are subjected to intense mechanical shearing prior to hydration into the liquid stream. The result is homogeneous dispersion of hydrophilic powders without “fish-eyes.” Other benefits include batch-to-batch consistency, less air entrainment, reduced batch times and decreased cleaning times due to the elimination of powder buildup on tank walls and the mixer shaft. - Quadro Inc., Millburn, N.J.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/6518-331
A field-mountable videographic recorder is now available
The SM500F (photo) is a four-channel, videographic data recorder that offers users localized access to operational data wherever the process may be. This recorder can be installed into a panel, wall or pipe without the additional expense of costly enclosures that are normally required to field mount a traditional videographic recorder. Its fully sealed NEMA 4X and IP66 enclosure provides full protection against water, dirt and dust, making it perfect for hose-down and dirty applications in the field and at the process. The SM500F is available with a choice of either a color or monochrome display to present process data in a variety of display formats including chart, bargraph and digital-indicator views. On-screen historical logs provide operators access to alarm, totalizer and audit trail data in a Microsoft Windows environment. Process data and historical logs are archived to a removable common SD camera card with a capacity of up to 2 Gb. An onboard web-server provides operators with access to realtime data and an Ethernet communications link is built into the unit. Fully compliant with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) 21CFR Part 11 regulations concerning electronic process-data collection, the SM500F is ideal where local indication and recording of process conditions are needed. - ABB Instrumentation, Norwalk, Conn.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/6518-332
These lift trucks perform in demanding applications
With six different capacities ranging from 17,500 to 33,000 lb, the P175000-P33000 Series diesel lift trucks (photo) feature a new turbocharged engine, a hydraulic, fingertip control system and ergonomic styling. The turbocharged diesel engine is equipped with a common rail fuel-delivery system that assures even and high-pressure fuel delivery to all six cylinders, allowing for swift acceleration, low noise and reliable performance. Specifically designed with operator convenience in mind, no tools are required for quick and easy performance checks. The new, hydraulic fingertip control significantly reduces operator fatigue. The display panel allows pre-programmable maintenance intervals, which notify the operator of impending service and provide quick fault-history-folder access to the technician. - Cat Lift Trucks, Houston, Tex.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/6518-333
This keyboard withstands harsh environments
The QVP all-metal, fully sealed keyboard with integrated track ball (photo) is designed to withstand heavy public use, vandal abuse, harsh weather and environments where fluids are common. Sealed to IP65, the keyboard can be spray washed. Engraved key tops provide long key life and have a tactile feel. Key graphics can also be customized. This keyboard is designed to be either under-panel mounted or to sit on a desktop. With operating temperatures from -20°C to 60°C, the QVP is USB 2.0 or PS2 capable. The bezel color can be customized by powder coating it to whatever color is needed. - MGR Industries, Fort Collins, Colo.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/6518-334
These gloves combine grip with chemical resistance
These chemical-resistant gloves incorporate a grip technology that requires less force to grip oily or wet objects. AlphaTEC gloves (photo, p. 36D-1) integrate microscopic channels in a patented ultra-thin nitrile layer to direct fluids away from the grip surface, leaving a significant dry contact area that provides almost the same grip that is possible under fluid-free conditions. Offering a combination of grip, chemical resistance, flexibility and dexterity, the gloves are recommended for light assembly and handling operations in environments with potential chemical hazards, including the chemical industry, printing, mining, aerospace, agriculture, oilfield exploration and production. AlphaTEC gloves offer resistance to many chemicals and especially hydrocarbon-based chemicals, oils and solvents. The polymer coating does not penetrate into the liner during the manufacturing process, which results in consistent protection for the skin. The reduced need for exertion provided by an improved grip results in greater object control, comfort, safety and productivity and can contribute to preventing the onset of occupational injuries such as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and tendonitis. - Ansell, Red Bank, N.J.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/6518-335
A unique approach to powder containment
The MDL850 continuous duty vacuum cleaner (photo) uses a continuous bagging system to eliminate drum handling and give the operator better control over dust and disposal issues. The cleaner also comes equipped with a filter cleaning system that does not require compressed air. While the filters are being cleaned, the discharge valve opens and automatically discharges the collected product into the continuous bagging system. The filters can be cleaned without shutting the cleaner down. Other features of the MDL850 include a heavy-duty frame and compact size, allowing for up to three operators working in a 50-ft area. Filter area for this system is three times greater than previous models by the manufacturer. - Vac-U-Max Belleville, N.J.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/6518-336
Portable vessels meet DOT and ASME codes
Custom designed and manufactured to CFR49 for shipment of hazardous products, these vessels (photo) meet both DOT and ASME codes. Vessels are available in various material and weld finishes, from a 2B finish with welds “as is” to a No. 6 finish with welds ground smooth an ribbon polished for sanitary conditions. - Custom Metalcraft, Inc., Springfield, Mo.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/6518-337
Transport and weigh materials with this truck
With a 7,000 lb capacity and a 3.4-in. lowered-fork height, this truck is able to transport and weigh pallets and containers. The explosion-proof truck, model d-170S-XP/ASM (photo), features an intrinsically safe scale system that measures weights in 2 lb increments with a 0.1% accuracy. - Sichelschmidt, Wharton, N.J.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/6518-338
Versatile designs accommodate a variety of heat-exchange needs
The Thermo-T tubular heat exchanger is designed to recover energy from industrial processes at temperatures up to 2,000°F, with up to 80% effectiveness. Built to handle high temperatures and corrosive environments, Thermo-T can be constructed from a variety of materials, such as stainless steels and nickel alloys. The fully welded construction prevents cross contamination. Integral thermal-expansion joints allow the heat-exchanging tubes to expand in high-temperature applications, without causing excessive stress to the unit. The insulated, external case prevents expansion, allowing direct flange-to-flange installation with ductwork. Adjustable tube sizing and spacing, single-pass and multi-pass models, airflows from 3,000 to 30,000 scfm, and multiple airflow configurations make this heat exchanger adaptable to multiple industrial tasks. - Des Champs Technologies, Buena Vista, Va.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/6518-339
This epoxy is serviceable down to 4°K
EP51M is a fast, epoxy adhesive (photo) for general purpose bonding. Bonded parts can be safely handled within a half hour. Bonds produced have more than 2,000 psi in shear strength and they exhibit resistance to thermal cycling and chemicals including water, oil and most organic solvents over a temperature range of 4°K to 120°C. EP51M adheres to metals, glass, ceramics, wood, vulcanized rubber and many plastics. It is suggested that this epoxy be mixed in small quantities because of its fast gelling properties. Applications include electrical, computer, construction, metalworking and chemical industries. - Master Bond Inc., Hackensack, N.J.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/6518-340
Measure high temperatures at a distance
The IRtec P2000 (photo) is a portable, infrared thermometer for various applications. The temperature range is from 1,100°F to 3,630°F with a temperature stability of ±0.01% and an accuracy of ±0.5% of the reading in °F. The design incorporates a high quality lens to measure very small targets at a long distance. - E Instruments Group, Langhorne, Pa.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/6518-341
A valve for biofuels applications
The High Performance butterfly valve Series (photo. p. 36D-5) offers direct-mount actuator capabilities for actuation, while retaining a live-loaded packing adjustment. Materials of construction include carbon steel, stainless steel and alloys. Sizes range through 60 in. with ANSI 150, 300 and 600 lb specifications. Engineered specifically for the biofuels market, these valves come standard with 316-stainless-steel trim, polyester polyurethane body coatings and three seating configurations. As a standard practice, every valve is tested to 110% of its pressure rating. - Sure Seal Inc., Mineral Point, Mo.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/6518-342
Eliminate condensation threats in TOC analyzers
Rapid oxidation of gas samples for total organic carbon (TOC) measurement can produce condensation that interferes with accurate readings. The MD-Series and MDH-Series dryers remove excess water vapor to keep TOC analyzers free from damage and inaccurate results. Using a patented membrane technology, these dryers selectively remove only water vapor from gas samples, leaving the carbon dioxide concentration intact for TOC measurement. With this one-step drying solution there is no need for a drip leg, peltier cooler or desiccant canister. Without moving parts, the dryers require no routine maintenance. Available in stainless steel, fluorocarbon or polypropylene, the MD-Series dryers come in a range of sizes to accommodate a variety of applications with flowrates of up to 4 L/min. MDH-Series dryers are designed for gas flows of up to 1 L/min with as much as 30% water by volume. Either model can be incorporated into analyzer cabinets or used as a stand-alone device. - PermaPure LLC, Toms River, N.J.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/6518-343
This pH sensor's design protects it from drying out
This inline sensor features a patented chamber design, which prolongs probe life and efficiency for monitoring the pH of water-based inks and other solutions. The In-Line pH Sensor installs directly in a fluid line to monitor pH and incorporates a transmitter which converts it's mV signal to 4-20 mA for transmission to a controller. Featuring a flat-tip probe with a glass insert, this sensor has a patented integral reservoir, which traps fluid to keep the probe tip wet during job changes and prevent drying out - a problem that often reduces or destroys the effectiveness of conventional sensors. - Norcross Corp., Newton, Mass.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/6518-344
Lift tables feature travel up to 12 feet
This line of lifts features 40 models of multi-stage lift tables with travels from 3 to 12 ft. Capacities range from 2,000 to 12,000 lb with platform sizes up to 66 in. by 98 in. Electric hydraulic power units are internal 2 hp or external 5 hp. The units have lifetime-lubricated bearings at all pivot points to eliminate the need for greasing or oiling, chrome-plated axles and shafts to inhibit rusting and centering pads to extend equipment life. These lift models are ideal for applications where a high lift is needed, but there isn't space for a single scissors assembly, which requires a much longer platform than the multi-stage platforms. - Advance Lifts, Inc., St. Charles, Ill.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/6518-345
This new filtration media offers increased permeability
This containment pallet features a removable deck with four-way forklift entry. The deck can be easily lifted from the sump by a forklift to transport drums to specific plant locations. Rugged, polyethylene construction features a 6,500 lb static-load capacity. Steel drums can be double-stacked on top of one Ultra-SpillKing (photo) containment sump to optimize floor space. The 85 gal sump capacity exceeds U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Uniform Fire Code spill containment regulations. -
UltraTech International, Inc., Jacksonville, Fla.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/6518-346
This steam-trap station line features a new configuration
This company has added a left-hand configuration to its universal steam-trap station line. Designed as a complete steam main-drip or tracer steam-trap station, the USTS II is engineered for the chemical, food and beverage, pharmaceutical and other industries. The compact unit is designed to have a minimal amount of surface area to reduce heat loss and save energy. It will support all standardized universal type steam traps and is also suitable for forged-steel and fabricated condensate-collection manifolds. The steam-trap station is rated for use at a maximum temperature of 750°F and a pressure of 650 psig. Constructed of stainless steel, the USTS II is made up of one main casting with no welding or threaded piping connection between components. Standard features include two isolation valves, one integral strainer with blowdown, one trap-test valve, NPT or socket -weld connections, 0.5- or 0.75-in. sizes and left-to-right or right-to-left configurations. Lock-out or tag-out boxes are also available. - Spirax Sarco Inc., Blythewood, S.C.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/6518-347
Optimize chemical reactions with this modular system
With the new experimental system called FRX (photo), chemical reactions are performed under laminar-flow conditions, improving reaction speed, optimization and control, says the firm. The modular system allows chemists to incorporate just those components that are required. Four FRX systems are available: the basic 100, designed for initial flow chemistry work using a larger-volume tubular reactor; the 200, with a microreactor and solid-phase column; and the more complex 300 and 400 versions, which incorporate an FRX flow liquid-liquid extraction (FLLEX) module. FLLEX facilitates compound purification and post-reaction separation; once separated the product can be passed on for analysis, collection or further reaction. - Syrris Ltd., Royston, U.K.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/6518-348
Measure thermal images with one hand
The LAND Guide M3 thermal imager (photo) enables plant engineers to operate more efficiently and productively in their day-to-day preventive maintenance duties. The palm-held design offers finger-tip controls, high-quality thermal images (with provision for voice annotation), on-board image processing, a 100-image memory capacity and USB connectivity. With a temperature-measurement range of -20 to 250°C and a sensitivity of 0.12°C, the device detects extremely small temperature differences and displays them as high-resolution, 8-bit thermal images. - Land Instruments International, Dronfield, England
edlinks.chemengonline.com/6518-349
Valve automation with redundancy over long distances
This firm has developed an integrated solution to automate valves using electrical actuators with loop redundancy. If the fieldbus is interrupted at one position, the data exchange between all actuators and the master can still be maintained. By applying this concept, redundancy is achieved without installing a second fieldbus cable, says the firm. The system uses conventional copper fieldbus cables. Theoretically, 127 actuators can be installed at a distance of 1,200 m, resulting in a loop circumference of 153.6 km. - AUMA Riester GmbH & Co. KG, Müllheim, Germany
edlinks.chemengonline.com/6518-350
These pH sensors can take the heat
The new Rosemount Analytical Model 3300HT and 3400HT high temperature pH sensors (photo) have been designed to operate longer at temperatures up to 145°C. The two sensors are the first releases of the company's PERph-X line, a new sensor platform with many specialized design features, including AccuGlass pH glass formulations. These resist cracking and maintain near theoretical response, even at extreme pH values and after exposure to high temperatures. As a result, sensors using this glass formulation require less frequent calibration and have a longer lifetime. Another new feature is an improved double-junction reference that can be refilled for extreme application that may deplete reference electrolyte. - Emerson Process Management, Bredbury, Stockport, U.K.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/6518-351
Analyze metals from the palm of your hand
iSort is a battery-powered, hand-held spectrometer for onsite analysis of metals. The device uses electric-arc excitation, thus requires neither argon nor a radioactive source, and can be used to identify and analyze aluminum, copper, nickel and titanium alloys without manual operator intervention. A scrubbing system enables the device to analyze for carbon in iron. The instrument can be used for applications such as incoming quality control, material testing in production, component identification in production plants, material-failure and weld-seal analysis, and the rapid determination of metal grades for buying and selling scrap metal. - Spectro Analytical Instruments GmbH & Co. KG, Kleve, Germany
edlinks.chemengonline.com/6518-352
A workstation for hydrogenation process development
The new Atlantis parallel hydrogenation workstation offers from one to six independent reactors in two volume ranges of 100 mL and 1 L. Heterogeneous or homogeneous reactions can be run in parallel at pressures up to 34 bar and temperatures up to 200°C. Each reaction module has independent stirring, temperature and pressure control. - Biotage AB, Uppsala, Sweden
edlinks.chemengonline.com/6518-353
A smart positioner gets smarter
The Logix 3400IQ Foundation Fieldbus digital valve positioner (photo) features new FISCO-compliant user interface board, improved potentiometer, piezoelectric technology, and host interoperability to provide operating versatility and fast, easy and accurate calibration. Compatible with HART or FOUNDATION distributed-control system, the Logix 3400IQ controls the position of both single and double-acting valve actuators with linear or rotary mountings. - Flowserve, Dallas, Tex.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/6518-354
H2 doesn't interfere with this personal gas detector
The Gasbadge Pro single-gas monitor (photo) has been enhanced to offer a low hydrogen interference carbon monoxide sensor option. The option is suitable for applications where the presence of H2 in the atmosphere normally produces inaccurate readings and false alarms. The device is designed to detect CO in the range of 0-1,500 ppm; with a simple calibration to a common standard CO gas, the unit will produce accurate readings even in atmospheres containing H2 concentrations in excess of 750 ppm. - Industrial Scientific Corp., Pittsburgh, Pa.
Measure thermal images with one hand
The LAND Guide M3 thermal imager (photo) enables plant engineers to operate more efficiently and productively in their day-to-day preventive maintenance duties. The palm-held design offers finger-tip controls, high-quality thermal images (with provision for voice annotation), on-board image processing, a 100-image memory capacity and USB connectivity. With a temperature-measurement range of -20 to 250°C and a sensitivity of 0.12°C, the device detects extremely small temperature differences and displays them as high-resolution, 8-bit thermal images. - Land Instruments International, Dronfield, England
edlinks.chemengonline.com/6518-339
A smart positioner gets smarter
The Logix 3400IQ Foundation Fieldbus digital valve positioner (photo) features new FISCO-compliant user interface board, improved potentiometer, piezoelectric technology, and host interoperability to provide operating versatility and fast, easy and accurate calibration. Compatible with HART or FOUNDATION distributed-control system, the Logix 3400IQ controls the position of both single and double-acting valve actuators with linear or rotary mountings. - Flowserve, Dallas, Tex.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/6518-354
H2 doesn't interfere with this personal gas detector
The Gasbadge Pro single-gas monitor (photo) has been enhanced to offer a low hydrogen interference carbon monoxide sensor option. The option is suitable for applications where the presence of H2 in the atmosphere normally produces inaccurate readings and false alarms. The device is designed to detect CO in the range of 0-1,500 ppm; with a simple calibration to a common standard CO gas, the unit will produce accurate readings even in atmospheres containing H2 concentrations in excess of 750 ppm. - Industrial Scientific Corp., Pittsburgh, Pa.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/6518-355
These pH sensors can take the heat
The new Rosemount Analytical Model 3300HT and 3400HT high temperature pH sensors (photo) have been designed to operate longer at temperatures up to 145°C. The two sensors are the first releases of the company's PERph-X line, a new sensor platform with many specialized design features, including AccuGlass pH glass formulations. These resist cracking and maintain near theoretical response, even at extreme pH values and after exposure to high temperatures. As a result, sensors using this glass formulation require less frequent calibration and have a longer lifetime. Another new feature is an improved double-junction reference that can be refilled for extreme application that may deplete reference electrolyte. - Emerson Process Management, Bredbury, Stockport, U.K.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/6518-351
Optimize chemical reactions with this modular system
With the new experimental system called FRX (photo), chemical reactions are performed under laminar flow conditions, improving reaction speed, optimization and control, says the firm. The modular system allows chemists to incorporate just those components that are required. Four FRX systems are available: the basic 100, designed for initial flow chemistry work using a larger-volume tubular reactor; the 200, with a microreactor ansd solid-phase column; and the more complex 300 and 400 versions, which incorporate an FRX flow liquid-liquid extraction (FLLEX) module. FLLEX facilitates compound purification and post-reaction separation; once separated the product can be passed on for analysis, collection or further reaction. - Syrris Ltd., Royston, U.K.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/6518-348
A workstation for hydrogenation process development
The new Atlantis parallel hydrogenation workstation (photo) offers from one to six independent reactors in two volume ranges of 100 mL and 1 L. Heterogeneous or homogeneous reactions can be run in parallel at pressures up to 34 bar and temperatures up to 200°C. Each reaction module has independent stirring, temperature and pressure control. - Biotage AB, Uppsala, Sweden
edlinks.chemengonline.com/6518-353
Valve automation with redundancy over long distances
This firm has developed an integrated solution to automate valves using electrical actuators with loop redundancy (photo). If the fieldbus is interrupted at one position, the data exchange between all actuators and the master can still be maintained. By applying this concept, redundancy is achieved without installing a second fieldbus cable, says the firm. The system uses conventional copper fieldbus cables. Theoretically, 127 actuators can be installed at a distance of 1,200 m, resulting in a loop circumference of 153.6 km. - AUMA Riester GmbH & Co. KG, Müllheim, Germany
edlinks.chemengonline.com/6518-350
Put your pressure on the safety bus with this transducer
The Sitrans P DSIII digital pressure transducer (photo, p. 36I-4) is said to be the first Profibus PA device available that is suitable for SIL2 (safety integrity level) safety shutdown, in accordance with IEC 61508/IEC 61511-1. For this purpose, the company has added a ProfiSafe driver to the standard device for measuring pressure, absolute pressure, differential pressure, flow and level. This allows failsafe transfer of a pressure transducer's measured value via Profibus for the first time. - Siemens Automation & Drives, Nuremberg, Germany
edlinks.chemengonline.com/6518-356
Analyze metals from the palm of your hand
iSort is a battery-powered, hand-held spectrometer (photo, p. 36I-6) for onsite analysis of metals. The device uses electric-arc excitation, thus requires neither argon nor a radioactive source, and can be used to identify and analyze aluminum, copper, nickel and titanium alloys without manual operator intervention. A scrubbing system enables the device to analyze for carbon in iron. The instrument can be used for applications such as incoming quality control, material testing in production, component identification in production plants, material-failure and weld-seal analysis, and the rapid determination of metal grades for buying and selling scrap metal. - Spectro Analytical Instruments GmbH & Co. KG, Kleve, Germany
edlinks.chemengonline.com/6518-352
Pick the best sealless pump for your needs from this trio
3M Mag-drive pumps are available in three types of hydraulic configuration: centrifugal, regenerative turbine and sliding vane. The centrifugal version, with closed impeller for liquids transfer and circulation, provides flowrates up to 1,000 m3/h and heads to 1,300 m. The peripheral, regenerative-turbine configuration is suitable for smooth, pulsation-free low and medium flows of up to 10 m3/h and heads up to 1,000 m. The sliding-vane pumps deliver pulsation-free dosing and injection applications providing flowrates up to 3,000 L/h and pressures up to 13 bar. The 3M pumps are available in stainless steel, Hastelloy C, Iconoloym titanium, PP and PVDF. API versions are also available. - Pump Engineering Ltd., Littlehampton, U.K.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/6518-357
These separators are suitable for sludge sedimentation
The Pieralisi vertical disc-stack separators feature automatic, intermittent solids discharge (known as FPC-Type), enabling them to simultaneously process dispersions of two liquids and one solid. They combine very high rotational speed, a unique design and special materials to create a very high centrifugal force for efficient separation. The mixture to be separated is forced through a conical stack where multilayer sedimentation takes place. Three of the vertical disc separators were recently installed in the port of Istanbul, Turkey, for treating bilge water. The separators are also suitable for treating other types of wastewater, washing liquids and slop oils. - Pieralisi Group, Jesi, Italy
edlinks.chemengonline.com/6518-358
This hygienic shaft seal is FDA compliant and economical
The Radiamatic HTS II Simmerring (photo, p. 36I-6) has been designed to seal shafts in kneading, agitating and mixing equipment as well as positive displacement pumps, especially for applications in the food-and-beverage industry. The seal features a sealing lip that is flush with the housing, has no clearance volume and is FDA approved. Both the stainless-steel clamping ring and the PTFE sealing element with sealing lip are machined, so no secondary seal is required. The seal is designed for sliding speeds of up to 25 m/s and a temperature range between - 70 and 200°C. The standard rotary shaft seal for DIN 3760 housings is suitable for shaft diameters between 10 and 125 mm. - Freudenberg Process Seals GmbH & Co. KG, Viernheim, Germany
edlinks.chemengonline.com/6518-359
Corrosive fluids not a problem for this mag-drive pump
The new Finish Thompson DB Series of sealless, magnetic-drive centrifugal pumps (photo) is designed to withstand the effects of corrosive fluids. Constructed from polypropylene or PVDF, the DB Series is said to be an ideal alternative to mechanically sealed pumps for a wide range of applications in the CPI. Multiple impeller diameters are available to allow hydraulic requirements to be met, and a two-piece impeller design enables impellers to be changed without having to replace the inner drive. The DB Series is designed for working pressures up to 90 psi. Models are available for flowrates up to 29m3/h at heads up to 27 m for liquids with densities up to 1.8 g/cm3. - Michael Smith Engineers Ltd., Woking, Surrey, U.K.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/6518-360
Look on this map to find the cause of batch-process upsets
PlantTriage Performance Supervision Software now includes a simple color-coded interaction map, on which users can quickly identify the most important process interactions. Process-interaction mapping (PIM) displays the extent of interaction between one process variable and every other process variable in the plant. Both periodic upsets and steady-state upsets can be seen. From a simple Web-browser interface, users can narrow their search based on any number of criteria, such as unit operation, type of measurement, economic value, oscillation or over 80 other criteria. PIM also displays lead and lag data, making it easier to find the root-cause of process upsets. - ExperTune Inc., Hartland, Wisc.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/6518-361
Meshed-matching feature for CFD and FEA applications
A new feature in this company's Harpoon extreme mesher enables a surface mesh to be converted easily and quickly into a volume mesh. Harpoon, developed by Sharc Ltd. (Manchester, U.K.), uses proprietary algorithms to generate high-quality, body-fitted hex meshes for finite-element analysis (FEA) and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) applications. - CEI, Apex, N.C.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/6518-362
Recover fried foods from hot oil with this separator
These separators are equipped with special seals and the bowl is made of a material capable of withstanding temperatures of more than 160°C, which enables them to be used for separating fried foods from 1,000-2,000 L of hot oil without having to cool down the system first. This allows food processors to run their operations continuously. The separators are also equipped with a patented Hydrostop ejection system, which allows the bowl hydraulic system to operate with water at these temperatures and the volume of the partial ejection can be precisely adjusted. Together with very short ejection times, this guarantees that the oil content in the discharged solids is minimized for every product to be fried or for every new recipe. - Westfalia Separator, Oelde, Germany
edlinks.chemengonline.com/6518-363
A bonding agent for rubber products
The new bonding agent Cohedur VP RUC 9206 for rubber-steel cord or rubber-textile composites is said to mix better and exhibit a much lower sublimation tendency than recorsin as a bonding-agent component. The rubber properties in an RFS (resorcin-formaldehyde donor-silica) system are therefore comparable to those of resorcin, says the producer. - Lanxess Deutschland GmbH, Leverkusen, Germany
edlinks.chemengonline.com/6518-364
Keep an eye on process streams with this indicator
Sight Flow indicators are designed to allow the flow monitoring of ultrapure liquids and harsh chemicals. The indicators can be used in vertical or horizontal lines to visually inspect for contaminants, flow interruptions and leak detection. Made from chemically inert fluoropolymer tubing, the indicators can handle applications involving corrosive chemicals and high temperature. Sanitary, flange, instrumentation, butt-weld or fluoropolymer-lined fittings are standard, and other types available on request. Sizes range up to 4 in. - Parker/Page International Hose, Fort Worth, Tex.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/6518-365
A clean way to connect tubing to steel
The Steam-Thru II provides a sterile connection between disposable systems and stainless-steel processing equipment. This latest addition to the company's line of sterile Steam-Thru Connections incorporates a valve that extends steam-in-place capabilities to two cycles. The flexibility of steam-on and steam-off functionality minimizes contamination and increases operational efficiency, says the firm. The connection is available in 3/4- and 1.5-in. tri-clamp, while hose barbs connect to 1/2-in. I.D. tubing. - Colder Products Co., St. Paul. Minn.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/6518-366
Disperse powders in a single pass
The Ytron inline powder disperser (photo, p. 36I-8) is specifically designed to disperse extremely difficult-to-wet powders such as polymers, into a liquid stream in a single pass. Powder incorporation is achieved by the presence of significant vacuum in the reactor housing generated by the liquid seal created between the rotor and stator. This vacuum ensures that powders from the hopper above are drawn into the reactor head, where the particles are subjected to intense mechanical shearing prior to hydration into the liquid stream. The result is homogeneous dispersion of hydrophilic powders without “fish-eyes.” Other benefits include batch-to-batch consistency, less air entrainment, reduced batch times and decreased cleaning times due to the elimination of powder buildup on tank walls and the mixer shaft. - Quadro Inc., Millburn, N.J.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/6518-331
A new resin for insulated concrete
EPS 35MB-ICF is an enhanced expandable polystyrene resin for insulating-concrete-form (ICF) applications. ICFs are lightweight, high-strength permanent concrete forms with insulation built in. ICFs made with these new resins enable “significant” improvements in molding-cycle time and provide “outstanding” strength in construction projects. The new resin has been trialed in ICF applications in a wide range of climate conditions, and is now available in North and Latin America. - Nova Chemicals Corp., Pittsburgh, Pa.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/6518-367
A ball valve for dosing applications
The ProfiDos 101 is a plastic ball valve that features a precise ball with recessed, milled edges making the valve suitable for dosing applications. The position of the ball is reproducibly adjustable by a toggle in 5-deg. steps. The dosing valve is available in PVC-U and PP in sizes from DN 15 to 32, and can handle a flowrate of 3,000 L/h. - ASV Stübbe GmbH & Co. KG, Vlotho, Germany
edlinks.chemengonline.com/6518-368
No power required for this flow control valve
These low-cost Flow Control Valves are used to maintain a constant, predetermined flow in piping systems. Flowrates from 0.25 to 120 gal/min. can be maintained to within 10% accuracy with varying pressures from 15 to 120 psi. Made of polypropylene, polyvinylchloride and other thermoplastics, the valves are suitable for corrosive or ultrapure liquids. The valves are pre-set and tamper proof, and require no electrical connection or electrical control. - Plast-O-Matic Valves, Inc., Cedar Grove, N.J.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/6518-369
A field-mountable videographic recorder is now available
The SM500F (photo) is a four-channel, videographic data recorder that offers users localized access to operational data wherever the process may be. This recorder can be installed into a panel, wall or pipe without the additional expense of costly enclosures that are normally required to field mount a traditional videographic recorder. Its fully sealed NEMA 4X and IP66 enclosure provides full protection against water, dirt and dust, making it perfect for hose-down and dirty applications in the field and at the process. The SM500F is available with a choice of either a color or monochrome display to present process data in a variety of display formats including chart, bargraph and digital-indicator views. On-screen historical logs provide operators access to alarm, totalizer and audit trail data in a Microsoft Windows environment. Process data and historical logs are archived to a removable common SD camera card with a capacity of up to 2 Gb. An onboard web-server provides operators with access to realtime data and an Ethernet communications link is built into the unit. Fully compliant with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) 21CFR Part 11 regulations concerning electronic process-data collection, the SM500F is ideal where local indication and recording of process conditions are needed. - ABB Instrumentation, Norwalk, Conn.
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These lift trucks perform in demanding applications
With six different capacities ranging from 17,500 to 33,000 lb, the P175000-P33000 Series diesel lift trucks (photo, p. 36I-9) feature a new turbocharged engine, a hydraulic, fingertip control system and ergonomic styling. The turbocharged diesel engine is equipped with a common rail fuel-delivery system that assures even and high-pressure fuel delivery to all six cylinders, allowing for swift acceleration, low noise and reliable performance. Specifically designed with operator convenience in mind, no tools are required for quick and easy performance checks. The new, hydraulic fingertip control significantly reduces operator fatigue. The display panel allows pre-programmable maintenance intervals, which notify the operator of impending service and provide quick fault-history-folder access to the technician. - Cat Lift Trucks, Houston, Tex.
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These gloves combine grip with chemical resistance
These chemical-resistant gloves incorporate a grip technology that requires less force to grip oily or wet objects. AlphaTEC gloves (photo) integrate microscopic channels in a patented ultra-thin nitrile layer to direct fluids away from the grip surface, leaving a significant dry contact area that provides almost the same grip that is possible under fluid-free conditions. Offering a combination of grip, chemical resistance, flexibility and dexterity, the gloves are recommended for light assembly and handling operations in environments with potential chemical hazards, including the chemical industry, printing, mining, aerospace, agriculture, oilfield exploration and production. AlphaTEC gloves offer resistance to many chemicals and especially hydrocarbon-based chemicals, oils and solvents. The polymer coating does not penetrate into the liner during the manufacturing process, which results in consistent protection for the skin. The reduced need for exertion provided by an improved grip results in greater object control, comfort, safety and productivity and can contribute to preventing the onset of occupational injuries such as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and tendonitis. - Ansell, Red Bank, N.J.