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How to Conduct a Thermal Audit of an Industrial Facility
The efficiency of steam-generating and distribution systems can be improved incrementally, but more substantial gains can be found using pinch analysis for better heat recovery When it comes to improving the energy efficiency of a thermal system, most industrial organizations…
Custom powder containers streamline material transfer
These new powder containers (photo) feature a custom design that streamlines material transfer in a personal-care-product manufacturing process. Developed for a major private-label manufacturer, the powder containers set FDA-compliant, polyethylene bulk containers within durable, steel frames in a configuration that…
Acoustic damping for production facilities
Basotect thermoset melamine resin foam (photo) offers outstanding acoustic properties. Because of its fine, open-cell foam structure, it can achieve sound-absorption values in the mid- and high-frequency ranges. Moreover, sound absorbers made from Basotect reduce the echo caused by reverberation…
Executive Interview: Clariant Catalysts Business Unit
In this exclusive interview, Jens Cuntze, member of Clariant’s Executive Steering Committee, offers his perspective on the goals, challenges and accomplishments of the Business Unit Catalysts, as well as the challenges faced by the chemical process industries Jens Cuntze is…
Switches for precise measurement of gas/liquid flow
The FLT93 flow switch Series (photo) is suitable for flow detection of liquids or gases. FLT93 is a dual-function instrument capable of monitoring and alarming on both flow and temperature in a single device. FLT93 flow switches can be specified…
Modular Construction: Choosing the Optimal Module Type
Plant process modules are not a one-size-fits-all solution. These considerations can help determine the best size for your project With the growing recognition of the advantages of modular construction over traditional field construction [1, 2], it’s no surprise that an…
Motorized actuator and shutoff valve for combustion systems
The ASCO Series 148/149 safety valve and motorized actuator (photo) is designed for industrial fuel-oil burner recirculation and safety shutoff applications. The new device prevents overpressure, leaks and system malfunctions that can lead to health and safety incidents, with one…
Evonik commissions new plant for easy-to-disperse silicas at Rheinfelden site
Evonik (Essen, Germany; www.evonik.com) has inaugurated a plant for its innovative dispersion technology for fumed silica at its Rheinfelden site. This strengthens the specialty chemicals company’s position as a leading supplier of high-quality silicas from the AEROSIL® family. The new…
Technip Energies acquires technology from Shell to accelerate bio-based polyester production
Technip Energies (Paris; www.ten.com) and Shell Catalysts & Technologies (Houston; www.shell.com) announce a technology transfer agreement which accelerates the commercialization of Technip Energies’ Bio-2-GlycolsTM technology for bio-based Mono Ethylene Glycol (MEG) production from glucose. MEG is traditionally produced using fossil-based…
Cepsa and European Investment Bank sign loan agreement for biofuels plant
The European Investment Bank (EIB; Luxembourg; www.eib.org) and Cepsa (Madrid, Spain; www.cepsa.com) sign a €285 million loan agreement for the construction of an advanced biofuels plant to be located next to the La Rábida Energy Park in Palos de la…