When a sliding interface experiences a coefficient of friction (CoF) below 0.01, the situation is said to have superlubricity. In the past, superlubricity has been limited to the microscale in controlled environments, and to ceramic surfaces with polar-fluid lubrication. Now,…
The new generation of Micropilot 80 GHz radar sensors (photo) — FMR60B, FMR62B, FMR63B, FMR66B and FMR67B — are suited for challenges when measuring points that are not easily accessible, located in dusty areas and harsh environments with extreme process…
This company has engineered a purpose-built VM-450-gallon VersaMix (photo) that features three independently driven agitators, including a two-wing center-mounted agitator with contoured bottom and Teflon scrapers to efficiently motivate viscous product throughout the mixing zone, a long helical flight agitator…
Typically, when workers wear a face shield, they still have safety glasses on underneath. That is because most face shields have gaps on the bottom and sides that can let dangerous materials in. Conversely, Vader Combo (photo) is a face…
The proper selection of materials of construction is crucial. The example presented here shows how to use standards to help narrow down the options Since the late 1800s, a steady body of pressure technology codes and standards have been under…
Crushing and screening of solids are essential to many solids-handling processes, but engineers must be mindful about how those actions will affect flow behavior of the bulk material When it comes to processing bulk solids, (particle) size matters. Almost all…
An overview on the importance of standard operation procedures (SOPs) and how to write them Today, it is necessary to have standard operating procedures (SOPs) for steam and condensate systems, boilers, deaerators and even steam process units (Figure 1). An…
This company introduced a bulk-material feeder suitable for installation in processing lines that require cleaning-in-place (CIP) for process equipment. Developed for food, dairy, nutrition, pharmaceutical and other sanitary operations, the Feedos S-H/P CIP (photo) integrates a series of spray nozzles…
Henry Kister shares lessons learned from troubleshooting distillation towers During a course that I was presenting in Houston one year, a participant asked me the following at the end of one of the sessions: “Do you have experience with BX-type…
It is well known that mercury is not only toxic, but is also highly mobile. As a result, Hg emissions from both industrial processes (gold mining, combustion of fossil fuels, cement production, waste incineration and more), as well as natural…