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How can chemicals industry R&D leaders address disruption and keep innovating?
Although almost everyone in the chemicals industry considers research and development (R&D) to be the primary engine of innovation and growth, R&D investment has been stuck at about 2.5% of revenue for the last 15 years. If that sounds like…
3D-printed reactor core improves efficiency of solar-fuel production
In recent years, engineers at ETH Zurich have developed technology to produce liquid fuels from sunlight and air. At the heart of the production process is a solar reactor that is exposed to concentrated sunlight delivered by a parabolic mirror…
New paddle agitator offers fast product validation
With new manufacturing improvements to its standard plated paddle agitator (photo), this company can speed up lead times on its 30-in. dia. and smaller-sized horizontal mixers. The new plated paddle agitators are manufactured with the paddle and arm sections cut…
Building Better Seal-Support Systems for Pumps
Adhering to API 682 guidelines will create safe, efficient and effective mechanical-seal supports in pumping systems In the 1980s, mechanical seals became the most frequently used sealing technology in petroleum refineries and chemical plants. The American Petroleum Institute (API; Washington,…
Ribbon blenders designed for easy cleaning
The Model 42N-18SS ribbon blender (photo) is crafted from type 316 stainless steel with interior surfaces polished to a 150-grit finish for easy cleaning. With a maximum working capacity of 18 ft3, the blender is direct driven by a 10-h.p.…
Applying Location Factors for Conceptual Cost Estimation
A practical overview on how to use location factors, and some tips on when to use — or not use — them Often in the early stages of project development in the chemical process industries (CPI), the development team is…
The Chemical Regulatory Landscape: Navigating Compliance Challenges
Achieving regulatory compliance is often viewed as overly complicated or restrictive, but a good understanding of the current regulatory landscape can help fuel business growth and efficiency When talking about modern manufacturing, few sectors experience as much regulatory scrutiny as…
An Overview of Non-Combustion Clean Air Technologies
Selecting an effective system for controlling air pollution can help to achieve balance between environmental stewardship and industrial productivity Air pollution is an ongoing worldwide concern that impacts people and ecosystems across the globe. The emission of pollutants like particulate…
An Introduction to Canned Motor Pumps
Canned motor pumps (CMPs) are designed to prevent emissions by eliminating the mechanical seal. Provided here is an overview of CMPs, along with information on common uses Emissions from process equipment not only pose safety and environmental risks, they also…
Secure bearing lubrication in fiber-processing equipment
As various rotating machinery throughout fiber-processing operations experience extremely harsh and demanding environments, it is often difficult to manually retrieve oil samples. Maintaining an adequate surveillance of lubrication properties against harmful effects can prove very challenging. This company’s oil-monitoring system…