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Achema Show Preview

| By Mary Page Bailey and Gerald Ondrey

ACHEMA_2018_Plakat_40x56cmAchema — the world forum and tradeshow for the chemical process industries (CPI) — is hosted by Dechema  e.V. (www.dechema.de) every three years in Frankfurt am Main, Germany. This year, the event will take place June 11–15 and will feature some new focal topics, including logistics for chemicals and pharmaceutical manufacturers and flexible manufacturing in the age of Industry 4.0 technologies. Achema’s 2018 exhibition boasts over 3,800 registered exhibitors spread over numerous exhibit halls, who will be showcasing some of the world’s newest and most advanced products and technologies. This year, exhibitors are divided into 11 distinct exhibition groups: Engineering; Research & Innovation; Instrumentation, Control & Automation Techniques, Industrial & Labor Safety; Laboratory & Analytical Techniques; Literature, Information, Learning & Teaching Aids; Mechanical Processes; Thermal Processes; Pharmaceutical, Packaging & Storage Techniques; Pumps, Compressors, Valves & Fittings; and Materials Technology & Testing. In this first of two Achema Show Previews — the second will be in our June issue — is a small selection of offerings from  Achema’s 2018 exhibitors.

This new system puts pumps into the internet of things

KSB

KSB

A new pump monitoring system, called KSB Guard, consists of networked vibration and temperature sensors fitted directly to the pump (photo), thereby making equipment availability at the plant level transparent. The system ensures that changes in the operating behavior of the machine are detected at an early stage, and maintenance work can be better planned, without having to be on site with the pump. Unlike previous systems, KSB Guard is well suited for retrofitting, says the company. The sensor unit is attached to the bearing bracket or the drive lantern of the pump using a magnet and adhesive, and can be mounted during operation, with no need for changes to the machine. Data, captured hourly, can be transferred directly and wirelessly (in encrypted form) to the cloud via a gateway for processing. Users can query the status data of all monitored pumps at any time and from any location using their mobile phone, a tablet or a PC. The aim of the newly developed solution is to create a cost-effective interface to the internet of things (IoT) for all types of pumps. Hall 8.0, Stand H14 — KSB SE & Co. KGaA, Frankenthal, Germany

www.ksb.com

 

High-containment system with an integrated mill

Frewitt

Frewitt

This company’s new containment system with an integrated mill (photo) is mounted on a mobile base consisting of an isolator, a continuous liner system (CLS) and a Fredrive-Lab mill. The Fredrive-Lab is mounted on a lifting column, forming the core of the system. Using this flexible mill, heat-sensitive, hard, crystalline and fibrous products can be pulverized, de-agglomerated, calibrated and milled (D90 to 10 µm). Depending on the milling process and the material to be processed, the operator can choose between six different milling heads, which are easily interchangeable on a single flange. The milling heads can be introduced and taken out using a CLS mounted on the side and on the bottom of the isolator. This is also used for changing the individual screens and rotors, as well as for feeding the products to be processed. A frequency-regulated fan permanently controls the negative pressure in the isolator. Hall 3.1, Stand D27 — Frewitt AG, Granges-Paccot, Switzerland

www.frewitt.com

 

 

Rembe

Rembe

A new non-invasive signaling device for rupture discs

The NIMU (photo) is the latest non-invasive signaling device for rupture discs. Conventional signaling devices require cables to be mounted on the rupture disc, which must then be routed out through the rupture disc holder. Conversely, with the NIMU, a signal indicator is attached to the rupture disc during the manufacturing process. The actual sensor is screwed into a blind tapping in the rupture disc holder, where it monitors the position of the signal indicator on the rupture disc. This means that the wiring only starts outside the rupture disc holder. After an overpressure event, and the associated opening of the rupture disc, the outlet part of the rupture disc holder must be removed, the rupture disc replaced, and afterwards the system can be put back into operation. Hall 9.1, Stand C4 — Rembe GmbH, Brilon, Germany

www.rembe.de

 

 

A showcase for valve intelligence at all industrial levels

This company will introduce digital solutions designed to advance decentralized valve intelligence. The Sam Digital Hub, a state-of-the-art digitization and automation platform by Ubix that operates on the cloud-based “software as a service” approach, makes it possible to log, save, process and exchange all data in process automation systems. Other pilot setups will demonstrate pioneering applications for IoT and Industry 4.0 environments. Smart field units serve as hubs in networked valves and their connection, for example, to SAP’s Asset Intelligence Network (AIN). In addition, a pilot setup of an Ethernet field solution will be on display to show how devices can be interconnected at the field level. Hall 11.1, Stand C85 — Samson AG, Frankfurt am Main, Germany

www.samson.de

 

Flottweg

Flottweg

Two mechanical separators for a wide variety of applications

With the AC 1200 separator (photo), this company is starting a new product line of high-performance separators for small and mid-sized operations. The AC 1200 was configured as a skid solution. This allows its uncomplicated integration into existing processes, making it quick and flexible. In parallel, this company is also presenting its Z2E decanter centrifuge. Thanks to its compact design, the Z2E handles key functions in many different areas of the biotechnology and chemical industries. The smallest modular machine in the Z series, the Z2E can be customized for different requirements so that fluctuating production conditions and frequent product changes are simplified, making it suitable for small batches and quick cycles. Hall 5.0, Stand A86 — Flottweg AG, Vilsbiburg, Germany

www.flottweg.com

 

 

Paul Bungartz

Paul Bungartz

Hermetically sealed, all-ceramic chemical pump

The MPCV centrifugal pump is self-regulating, can run dry and is hermetically sealed. Therefore, this vertical pump does not require a minimum volume flow or a large static head. The three-phase-compatible pump is now also available as an all-ceramic version, the K-MPCV-AN (photo). The use of silicon carbide ceramic further extends the service life of the pump. Equipped with a magnetic coupling and roller bearings, which are permanently dry-running, the intrinsically safe K-MPCV-AN operates without bearings in the pumping liquid. The shaft-gap seal concept is based on the complete hydrodynamic relief of the bearing and seal unit. Back vanes and a gas barrier prevent product vapors from penetrating the bearing unit. Like all pumps in the V-AN range, the K-MPCV-AN features control characteristics that adapt automatically to variable feedrates. Hall 8, Stand C1 — Paul Bungartz GmbH & Co. KG, Düsseldorf, Germany

www.bungartz.de

 

Sulzer Chemtech

Sulzer Chemtech

Separation technology — from column internals to retrofits

The recently introduced MellaCarbon line of column internals (photo) delivers advantages for corrosive applications, including exposure to caustic solutions and non-oxidizing inorganic acids, including hydrofluoric acid and carboxylic acids. Further developments have been made in tray performance, with increased capacity and improved downcomer technology that enhances performance. According to the manufacturer, Mellacarbon combines all the advantages of a structured gauze packing with the corrosion resistance of carbon. Mellacarbon column internals provide high wettability and thermal stability (greater than 400°C). The company has also implemented improvements to random packing applications and its NeXRing technology. Integration of the latest technology with existing infrastructure is very important, and turnkey service using skid-mounted solutions that minimize costs and process disruption are offered. Hall 4.0, Stand D48 — Sulzer Chemtech AG, Winterthur, Switzerland

www.sulzer.com

 

Elaflex

Elaflex

Hose assemblies to meet a wide variety of application needs

The new ElaSil silicone hose range (photo), which complements the company’s ElaPharm pharmaceutical hoses, conform to FDA and USP Class VI and meet the 3-A Sanitary Standard. The hose sizes range from DN 13 to 102 mm, and are assembled to user specifications, with crimped couplings. Also on display is the EasyLoc version of the company’s Camlock product range. EasyLoc features an automatic lever lock to avoid unwanted disconnection during operation, for example due to excessive pulsation. The couplings are available in sizes DN 13–50 mm. Hall 8.0, Stand L93 — Elaflex – Gummi Ehlers GmbH, Hamburg, Germany

www.elaflex.de

 

 

 

Fast measurement of degassed acid conductivity

Dr. Thiedig

Dr. Thiedig

The Digox 602 dac (photo) is an optimized measuring device for monitoring the degassed acid conductivity in the water-steam cycle. The unit performs a fast, dependable measurement of the acid conductivity without the influence of CO2. In the standard version, the measurements of the specific conductivity, the acid conductivity and the pH-value calculation are available. The degassing takes place without increasing the media temperature. Due to the short downtime (less than 90 s) of the degassing, the device can considerably shorten the startup time for steam turbines. The efficiency of the degassing is over 90% — optionally, the value can be calculated to 100%, says the manufacturer. The device is also available as an upgraded version for existing measurements of the acid conductivity and additionally as a portable, battery-operated version. Hall 11.1, Stand E63 — Dr. Thiedig GmbH & Co. KG, Berlin, Germany

www.thiedig.com

 

 

Pumps and pump-monitoring technology to be displayed

The Ensival Moret CAHR pump range for heavy-duty axial flow is suitable for applications involving highly corrosive liquids and slurries. Another product on display will be the OCV range, the latest evolution of the proven API 610- type VS4 pumps that offer reliable performance in demanding applications. In addition to this, the company will have the OHV pump and the Type OH3 overhung, horizontal, centerline-mounted, single stage pump that is API 610 certified. For monitoring the overall performance of pumps, as well as data from specific assets, the company’s Blue Box is a flexible and secure software solution that uses existing operational data combined with pump design information to analyze pump operation and optimize it in terms of performance, efficiency and reliability. Hall 8.0, Stand A71 — Sulzer Pumpen (Deutschland) GmbH, Bruchsal, Germany

www.sulzer.com

 

Inspect and count tablets and pills at high speeds

Countec

Countec

Vicob (photo) is a vision-inspection counting machine that can check each individual piece of product with 100% vision inspection with single-tablet reject prior to filling. With the company’s patented hybrid technology that combines the functions of tablet counting and vision inspection, Vicob brings together ultra-high-resolution cameras, tilted, revolving disc-tablet feeding and cylinder-free airflow control for tablet spacing. Additionlly, the company’s VC-100 model is capable of processing high-speed product inspection data while maintaining the two-times faster output. Vibratory feeders are replaced by a tilted revolving disc that guides the products to a circumferential edge and directly to the vision counting zone and shutter cylinders are replaced by the flowcontrol technique that enables single-tablet reject instead of removing the entire container from the conveyor. This concept is different from the existing design, which requires vibrator feeding and shutter cylinder spacing. Hall 3.1, Stand G69 — Countec Co., Seoul, South Korea

www.countec.com

 

Robotic innovations for the pharmaceutical industry

1

Stäubli Tec-Systems

The new TS2 Scara series (photo, pg. 73) represents a complete makeover of this four-axis machine with patented JCS drive technology, significantly shortening cycle times and introducing a hygienic design that opens up the potential for new applications in sensitive environments. The completely redesigned Scara robot arms now have a modular configuration, and for the first time, feature the company’s proprietary hollow-shaft drive that is already available on the six-axis models. This drive technology is the key to the performance gains of the four-axis TS2 and to a unique cleanroom design in which external cabling is eliminated. The new robots are are characterized by their compact, enclosed design with internal media and supply lines. There is no external bundling of cables and thus no irregular contours, sources of mechanical failure or avoidable particle emissions. The machine’s design includes completely sealed housing, optional quill protection with a cover affixed with special screws and concealed connections under the robot pedestal with dead spaces systematically excluded. The new product range has four models. Hall 1.1, Stand B47 — Stäubli Tec-Systems GmbH, Bayreuth, Germany

www.staubli.com

 

 

Orbital weld heads for thin stainless-steel pipes

Orbitalum Tools

Orbitalum Tools

HX Series orbital weld heads enable users to join pipe elbows to small stainless-steel pipes (for example in heat exchanger construction). The product line has now been expanded to include the HX 12P model (photo), which is specially designed for very compact fin heat exchangers with pipe diameters ranging from 9.5 to 13.3 mm. Using an automated welding technology, pre-mounted pipe elbows, even those in tight pipe bundles, can be welded reliably and quickly (in under 30 s per pipe). The HX 12P features a straight design, which enables easy turning of the head at the heat exchanger. The entire unit can be suspended from a balancer to take the strain off the operator. In addition to the HX 12P, the HX Series also includes the HX 16P for pipe diameters from 15.0 to 16.8 mm and the HX 22P for 18.0 to 22.0 mm. Hall 9.2, Stand D10 — Orbitalum Tools GmbH, Singen, Germany

www.orbitalum.com

New technologies for bag filling and testing

Beumer

Beumer

The fillpac FFS (photo, p. 74) is a highly efficient form-fill seal system that is designed for use in the chemical and petrochemical industries. The machine forms bags from a prefabricated tubular polyethylene (PE) film and fills them with users’ products. The product range also includes a new bag tester device that is easy to transport and enables users to precisely determine the venting capacity of any type of valve bag, as well as its suitability for any number of applications, including testing of all paper and plastic layers and glued areas. Hall 3.0, Stand F50 — Beumer Group GmbH & Co. KG, Beckum, Germany

www.beumergroup.com

 

 

 

This robotic blister line features built-in predictive maintenance

Marchesini Group

Marchesini Group

The Integra 320 robotic blister line, now available with the Valida five-camera infeed system (photo), ensures multi-vision control of the shape, thickness and color of pills. The system also features a near-infrared (NIR) active-ingredient recognition system and a newly developed SCADA system, which checks the mechanical and functional state of the machine by constantly monitoring quality parameters and informing the operator accordingly. Furthermore, the line is also equipped with a predictive maintenance system to pinpoint possible mechanical problems and suggest appropriate scheduled maintenance actions. Hall 3.1, Stand G3 — Marchesini Group S.p.A., Pianoro, Italy

www.marchesini.com

 

 

 

This bagging machine has many flexible options for packaging

Windmöller & Hölscher

Windmöller & Hölscher

The Topas SL FFS (photo) is a bagging machine designed to process a wide range of free-flowing bulk solids with capability to handle more than 2,600 bags/h. A variety of product-related features, such as a bypass hopper, a dust-removal system and washing capability, as well as the choice between a gravity dosing and a volumetric dosing method, permits easy adjustment for diverse packaging applications with filling weights ranging from 5 to 50 kg. Hall 3.0, Stand F74 — Windmöller & Hölscher KG, Lengerich, Germany

www.wuh-group.com

 

 

 

This cantilever pump is designed for solids-containing media

Rheinhütte Pumpen

Rheinhütte Pumpen

The RCEV vertical cantilever pump (photo) is designed without a base bearing and has a free-flying shaft, making it suitable for conveying liquids containing solids from containers or open sumps. The double volute casing ensures that radial forces are kept to a minimum, says the manufacturer. The RCEV pump can be equipped with an open or closed impeller with front and back blades, depending on the application. The open impeller is frequently recommended in the case of heavily contaminated media containing solids, as closed impellers may become clogged. The pump is also protected against dry running, due to the raised mounting without a bearing in the conveyed material. Hall 8.0, Stand A24 — Rheinhütte Pumpen GmbH, Wiesbaden, Germany

www.rheinhuette.de

 

 

 

New tool provides root-causeanalysis for pharma applications

Hüttlin

Hüttlin

This company is debuting a new data-mining tool (photo) for solid-dosage pharmaceutical production that aims to evaluate existing machine data more effectively to identify and eliminate root-causes of operational problems. Using statistical methods while interacting with a machine’s sensors, the tool can examine a large volume of data for very small anomalies and identify reasons for process deviations that might not be obvious at first sight. In general, says the company, production data from just two production batches are sufficient to begin generating insights, but as more data points are available for evaluation over a longer period, more details can be identified the longer the system is employed. Hall 3.1, Stand C71 — Hüttlin, a subsidiary of Bosch Packaging Technology, Waiblingen, Germany

www.boschpackaging.com

 

 

This imaging system handles both dry and wet media

Fritsch

Fritsch

The Analysette 28 ImageSizer (photo, p. 76) is a particle sizer for dry and wet measurement applications that require accurate and reproducible measuring results for both particle shape and size. The sizer’s dynamic-image-analysis optical process provides results for a wide measuring range and delivers multiple shape parameters. For wet measurements with emulsions and suspensions, the device provides an extra wide measuring range of 20 μm through 2.8 mm, an automatic rinsing cycle and a freely adjustable ultrasonic-powered deagglomeration capability. For dry, free-flowing materials, the ImageSizer enables users to identify damaged particles, contaminants, agglomerates or oversized and undersized particles accurately and quickly, and view them in single, uncomplicated images. Hall 4.1, Stand J49 — Fritsch GmbH, Idar-Oberstein, Germany

www.fritsch-international.com

 

New technologies for centrifugal separation

Alfa Laval

Alfa Laval

This company’s new centrifugal separator for industrial fermentation applications combines high separation area with continuous solids discharge, making it suitable for high-density broths. Its hermetic design ensures very gentle product handling, high separation efficiency and low energy consumption. The new centrifugal separator is suitable for medium-sized batches. The company has also developed new UniDisc discs for its Culturefuge range (photo) of centrifugal separators for harvesting mammalian cells. The discs serve to improve hygienic operations by minimizing the number of deadlegs in a system. The Unidisc design also makes it possible to increase the total separation area and improve separation efficiency, says the company. Hall 4.0, Stand D4 — Alfa Laval Mid Europe GmbH, Hamburg, Germany

www.alfalaval.com

 

 

Measure flow of conductive materials with low pressure drop

Tecfluid

Tecfluid

The Flowmid series of electromagnetic flowmeters (photo) is designed for measuring conductive liquids in applications where low pressure drop and infrequent maintenance are required. There are no moving parts or obstructing elements in the instrument, allowing for the passage of solids without retention. The flowmeters can be assembled and mounted in any position, provided that the pipe is always full. Flowmid devices provide good chemical resistance and low power consumption. Available in compact and remote versions, the devices are configurable using a PC and a USB cable using software provided by this company. HART and Modbus communication protocols are available upon request. Hall 11.1, Stand A68 — Tecfluid, S.A., Barcelona, Spain

www.tecfluid.com

 

Instrumentation shelters with a hybrid cooling system

Intertec-Hess

Intertec-Hess

This company is introducing a new style of outdoor shelter for process plant applications, the Peri Shelter (photo), which features a cooling system based on a hybrid combination of unpowered passive and active powered technologies. This shelter provides a reliable operating environment for control, analyzer and instrumentation electronics. All system components that are required for normal operation are accessible via the building’s exterior. Panel-mounting enclosures on the exterior provide access to electrical connection and I/O termination points, as well as cooling systems. Touchscreen panels can also be fitted to external walls, allowing operators on the ground to monitor a control element, such as a PLC, or make adjustments to control programs locally via an inspection door. The shelters employ glass-reinforced polyester (GRP) materials that are very insulating and provide surface protection in extreme environments, including those with very high levels of ultraviolet (UV) light and abrasion from sand or dust. Hall 11.1, Stand F61 — Intertec-Hess GmbH, Neustadt, Germany

www.intertec.info

 

This dissolved-oxygen sensor avoids bubble-induced errors

Broadley-James

Broadley-James

The OptaProbe (photo) is a smart optical dissolved-oxygen (DO) sensor for use in bioprocess applications with autoclave or steam-in-place (SIP) requirements. OptaProbe sensors feature this company’s DeflectorCap with a 45-deg angled sensing surface, which deflects sparge bubbles in any insertion orientation and SpargeSafe firmware, which eliminates bubble errors. The OptaProbe has a sophisticated, built-in signal-filter system that recognizes measurement noise caused by bubbles and filters it out of the signal. This significantly increases measurement precision in challenging bubble-filled aeration environments. Measurement errors caused by bubbles striking the measurement surface are drastically reduced and in many cases eliminated.

Hall 11.1, Stand F76 — Broadley-James Ltd., Silsoe, U.K.

www.broadley-james.eu