New Products & Services
January 2014
The Heavy Duty Whip is a portable, remote-controlled solution for blocked vessels and plugged discharge chutes. The Heavy Duty Whip can be lowered into storage vessels through a manhole opening, allowing it to address blockages without the need for confined-space entry by personnel. Powered by compressed air, this tool uses a modular boom arrangement that extends from 2 to 8.5 m and can clean vessels up to 18 m in diameter and 68.5 m tall from a single central opening of just 450 mm. The Heavy Duty Whip can also be equipped with a variety of flails and cutting edges to knock down accumulated material without damaging storage vessels. Abrasion-resistant steel chain is best suited for most applications, with non-sparking brass chains available for combustible materials. — Martin Engineering, Neponset, Ill.
www.martin-eng.com
The new ParticleMetric software, for integrated use with this company’s scanning electron microscopes (SEMs), is designed for fully automated measurement, inspection and visual analysis of a wide range of particle and powder samples. This software allows users to gather morphology and particle-size data for many submicron applications, while defining particle features, such as diameter and circularity, to select the desired type of samples. ParticleMetric software can also help users to identify phenomena in samples, such as broken particles, agglomerates and foreign particles. — Phenom-World BV, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
www.phenom-world.com
The E80 air-operated double-diaphragm pump is constructed with polyethylene, making it resistant to abrasive materials. Equipped with a 3-in. nominal connection diameter and a maximum capacity of 210 gal/min, these plastic-bodied pumps boast dry-run and self-priming capabilities. Low maintenance, with no rotating parts or shaft seals, the E80 is designed with integrated flanged connections to ensure stability and leakage protection. An optional barrier-chamber system is also available, which has two diaphragms in tandem. — Almatec Maschinebau GmbH, Kamp-Lintfort, Germany
www.almatec.de
The Micro Motion Compact Density Meter is a multi-variable density meter designed to alleviate the measurement challenges associated with the transfer of aggressive process fluids, including alcohols and refined hydrocarbons. Combining a high-speed signal-processing technology with an optimized meter design, this meter measures both the fluid temperature and its own meter-case temperature, minimizing errors due to changes in environmental conditions. The meter also features fluid flowrate indication, allowing users to quickly diagnose installation problems, such as product buildup for blockages. Calibrated over a wide range of combined temperatures and pressures, these meters are capable of accurate operation even in very harsh environments with varying process conditions. The transmitter module can output sensor data in multiple formats. — Emerson Electric Co., St. Louis, Mo.
www.emerson.com
The new Pleuger PMM6 is a submersible electric motor that utilizes permanent-magnet technology. This electric, three-phase induction motor is an alternative to asynchronous designs, providing lower thermal losses and higher efficiency at both full and partial loads, says the company. Also featuring a large, air-gap configuration, the Pleuger PMM6 is currently available in a 150-mm motor size with a power output of 5–45 kW. Additional sizes are planned for future release. Operated in conjunction with variable-frequency drives, the motor runs at synchronous speed with no rotor losses, which allows pumps to run efficiently under variable flow conditions. — Flowserve Corp., Irving, Tex.
www.flowserve.com
The CompactSpec II spectrometer system is designed for process control in harsh environments. Encased within a protective stainless-steel housing, the system features a xenon flash lamp that provides high-intensity broadband light, with a separate reference channel allowing for realtime compensation for lamp variability, giving drift-free operation. The lamp’s long lifetime decreases maintenance requirements. The systems can cover a wavelength range from 190 to 2,150 nm, and up to eight channels can be incorporated into one system. Probes for inline measurements (operating at up to 300ºC and 300 bars) in pipes and reactors are available. — Tec5USA, Inc., Plainview, N.Y.
www.tec5USA.com
The BlendMaster 657 Series gas blender enables users to create custom-blended gas mixtures onsite. Designed to increase productivity by eliminating time-consuming cylinder handling, this blender provides 0–25% blend adjustability for two-component gases. Unlike fixed-orifice technology, this blender’s EquiBlend technology allows for full flow regardless of the mix or blend ratio. A pressure-equalization system minimizes inlet pressure fluctuations to stabilize the mix, broadening the inlet pressure range difference between the major and minor component gases. Additionally, an optional low-pressure remote alarm can be integrated with other building systems via contact interface to provide a higher level of systems integration. Ambient atmosphere and gas-supply temperature requirements are 32° to 100°F. — Controls Corp. of America (Concoa), Virginia Beach, Va.
www.concoa.com
The LPD-X is a loop-powered, explosion-proof bar-meter that is designed for hazardous locations. Requiring less than 50 MW of signal power, the LPD-X features a 300-deg auto-tricolor, 51-segment bar, a four-digit display, an isolated serial input/output, an alarm with four setpoints and loop-failure detection functionality. The meter can be mounted on a panel, wall or ¾-NPT connection. The meter’s display screen is made of ultraviolet (UV) coated glass. — Otek Corp., Tucson, Ariz.
www.otekcorp.com
The Series 605 Differential Pressure Switch is designed for use with air and non-corrosive gases in applications such as interlock systems, fume hoods and pressure control in gas-fired heating systems. These switches feature a unique trapezoidal-bead diaphragm design, which provides desirable contact release and high levels of accuracy. Standard on these switches is a self-cleaning contact design, minimizing their susceptibility to contact-point corrosion or degradation. Integrated cable-strain relief is also standard, assuring connectivity. Series 605 Switches can be installed either vertically or horizontally without impacting performance. — Clark Solutions, Hudson, Mass.
www.clarksol.com
A new polyethylene grade for large-width films
The new Supertough 22ST05 metallocene polyethylene grade is aimed at the industrial films sector, embracing the need for easy-to-process, high-performance downgauging film solutions. Supertough 22ST05 films feature excellent bubble stability and mechanical properties that give them the potential to downgauge by up to 25%, allowing for the development of large-width films, says the manufacturer. Large-width films are important in agriculture and transportation applications, among others. — Total Refining & Chemicals, Brussels, Belgium
www.totalrefiningchemicals.com
This material is an alternative to glass and polycarbonate
Akestra is a new high-performance plastic material whose properties make it a viable alternative to polycarbonate, polystyrene and glass. Featuring a high glass-transition temperature, clarity, heat resistance, high melt strength and amorphous characteristics, this durable material can be blended with other plastics to improve their properties. In packaging applications, Akestra can be used in either reusable or disposable products. The high melt strength of Akestra makes it particularly suitable for extrusion blow-molding and extrusion foaming processes. In combination with polyethylene terephthalate (PET), it creates a fine cell structure, resulting in desirable mechanical properties for structural and packaging foam applications. — Perstorp Holding AB, Perstorp, Sweden
www.perstorp.com
This moldable optical silicone will not degrade in high heat
MS-2002 Moldable White Reflector Silicone is a highly reflective optical-grade white material that is intended for light-emitting diode (LED) lamp and luminaire applications. MS-2002 material targets a reflectivity as high as 98%, which boosts light output from LED devices, improves energy efficiency and prolongs device reliability, says the company. This material also delivers mechanical, thermal and optical stability at temperatures exceeding 150ºC. Unlike conventional LED materials, such as epoxies, polycarbonates and acrylics, MS-2002 silicone is said to retain its properties and performance over the lifetime of a device without physical degradation. This product also does not require the additional mixture of liquid silicone rubber or color pigmentation. — Dow Corning, Midland, Mich.
Use these retaining compounds on contaminated surfaces
The newly enhanced Loctite anaerobic retaining compounds allow primerless performance on oily or contaminated surfaces, even at very high operating temperatures. Used in combination with interference fits to secure bearings, bushings, gears and cylindrical assemblies into housings or shafts, the Loctite line of products allow for high load transmission, relaxed machine tolerances and a general reduction in assembly size. Loctite 638 is a general-purpose retaining compound recommended for press fits that will need subsequent disassembly. Designed for use on loose-fitting parts, this high-strength adhesive resists temperatures to 175°C and can be used on applications with gaps approaching 0.25 mm. Loctite 648 is recommended for continuous working temperatures to 180°C. This general-purpose retaining adhesive fixes in five minutes with full cure in 24 hours and is designed for use on close-fitting parts. The high-strength formulation bonds well to stainless-steel press and interference fits, and fills gaps to 0.15 mm. Loctite 680 is a low-viscosity, high-strength retaining adhesive for use on slip-fitted parts with gaps as large as 0.38 mm. Both Loctite 648 and 680 are certified to ANSI/NSF Standard 61 for use in potable water systems. — Henkel Corp., Rocky Hill, Conn.
A new polypropylene resin with a high melt flowrate
This company’s new clarified random copolymer 80R90CD polypropylene (PP) resin delivers stiffness, desirable impact performance and clarity. Its lower processing temperatures, when compared to other similar materials, allow for simplified mold design, extended tool and equipment lifetime and decreased energy usage. The high melt flowrate of 80R90CD clarified PP reduces maximum molding pressure, allowing lower-tonnage machines to be used and contributing to longer tool life and reduced maintenance. From a design standpoint, higher flow — together with the stiffness and impact of this new grade — makes it appropriate for thin-wall injection molding. Higher flow also makes it easier to design parts because there are fewer flow-related challenges to overcome compared to conventional materials. Target applications for the new grade include food storage containers, food packaging, housewares and household storage items. — Propilco, S.A., Bogotá, Colombia
Use these thermally conductive materials with LEDs
New thermally conductive Luvocom compounds are designed to meet specific requirements for LED applications. These materials are characterized by a thermal conductivity ranging from 0.6 to 1.5 W/mK, are electrically insulative, and have a tensile strength of up to 8,000 psi (55 MPa) and an impact strength up to 14 ft-lb/in.2 (29 kJ/m2). Typical Luvocom materials use PET and aliphatic polyamide (PA 6) as base polymers, giving the compounds processing characteristics which enable injection molding of complex geometries and thin wall sections, says the manufacturer. — Lehvoss North America LLC, Pawcatuck, Conn.
This corrosion-resistant water-based coating is low in VOCs
This newly released Teflon industrial coating is water-based, easy to use and is very corrosion resistant — up to 3,000 salt-spray hours. Specifically engineered for coating offshore, chemical processing and water-treatment fasteners, the new coating is targeted for applications demanding high levels of corrosion resistance, anti-galling and dry lubrication. This coating is also very low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Coatings are available in blue and red, with yellow and black options being added in the near future. — DuPont, Wilmington, Del.
This microwave laminate compound exhibits high stability
Astra is a new compound with a low-loss dielectric constant for radio-frequency (RF) and microwave designs. The compound’s lead-free laminate materials exhibit electric properties that are constant over a broad frequency and temperature range, for simple processing. Featuring a dielectric constant that is stable between –55 and 125ºC and a low dissipation factor, Astra can be processed at lower temperatures (under 200ºC) than competitive products, making it a cost-effective alternative to other commercial microwave laminate products, such as PTFE. Key applications include long antennas and radar applications for automobiles, such as adaptive cruise control, pre-crash, and blind-spot detection. — Isola Group S.a.r.l., Chandler, Ariz.
This material improves industrial ceramics’ performance
This company has produced a new 3YSZ (3-mol% yttria-stabilized zirconia) material for high-strength industrial ceramic applications, such as valve components and process equipment. Manufactured to ensure retention of an intrinsic nanostructure, this product’s high density and chemical homogeneity give ceramics increased bonding strength, thermal stability and fracture resistance. Featuring an expansion coefficient similar to that of steel, 3YSZ materials are corrosion-resistant and can be supplied in application-specific forms — as a spray-dried granulated power (with or without binder), suspension or slurry. These materials’ inherent nanostructure increases chemical activity, allowing for ceramics to be processed at lower temperatures. — Innovnano, Porto Salvo, Portugal
Enhance thermoplastics with these custom flame retardants
Exolit OP flame retardant solutions support high-temperature thermoplastics in the electrical and electronic industries. Exolit OP 1400 is formulated for polyamides while Exolit OP 1260 is compatible with polyesters. These new compounds are designed to improve fire safety, along with processing and mechanical performance of these thermoplastic families. According to the company, these formulations can be customized to the fire protection challenges of specific thermoplastics. Exolit OP 1400’s thermal stability helps to avoid issues, such as polymer degradation, formation of decompositions products and discoloration. Exolit OP 1260’s synergistic blend addresses fire safety and enhances melt flow, without the need for additional flame-retardant additives. — Clariant, Muttenz, Switzerland