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Calculate NPSH with Confidence

Determining net positive suction head (NPSH) can be confusing, but with these guidelines, engineers can avoid the pitfalls of incorrect calculations Most engineers have likely heard the term NPSH (net positive suction head) at some point in their careers. Put…

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A Universal Equation for Designing Pipelines

The pipe-flow equation presented here can be used to properly and easily size pipelines for liquid, vapor and two-phase flow. Example calculations are also shown Sizing pipelines is a fundamental task for design engineers, who typically use several equations to…

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Solids Discharge: Characterizing Powder and Bulk Solids Behavior

How shear-cell testing provides a basis for predicting flow behavior Powder jams are the once-in-a-month catastrophe that can bring processing operations to a standstill. Whether it’s erratic flow behavior or complete stoppage of solids discharge, the consequence is the same.…

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The Benefits of Seal-less Pumps for Full Product Containment

In cases where full containment of dangerous and hazardous chemicals is necessary, seal-less pumps can provide many safety and operational benefits To the average person, many of the raw materials that are commonly used in the chemical process industries (CPI)…

Focus on Software and Mobile Apps

Mobile app and vibration sensors monitor machinery The SKF Enlight platform combines a new mobile app with a Bluetooth-enabled vibration sensor to enable staff to collect machinery data with no special training (photo). This allows standard mobile devices, such as…

Improving the Operability of Process Plants

Turndown and rangeability have a big impact on the flexibility and efficiency of chemical process operations  During the design of a chemical process plant, the main focus is on which process units or unit operations must be integrated to convert…

Treating Wastewater for Industrial Reuse

Secondary treated wastewater from municipal plants can be a water resource for industry. Important water characteristics and treatment options are discussed Water is a precious resource, and water quality and water pollution are important issues. Many companies and industries are…

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Variable Frequency Drives

Electric alternating current (a.c.) motors power all types of equipment in the chemical process industries (CPI), including pumps, fans, blowers, compressors and other types of process equipment. Electric motor systems offer opportunities for reductions in power consumption because while some…

A new pipe system range with detectable rings and seals

The multi-way distributor that was presented at Achema 2015 is also available with the performance criteria of the company’s new Detectable Design series. All of the components in this pipe system are food-grade, in accordance with both the European Directive…

Precise temperature regulation for chromatography columns

The new EchoTherm Model CO50 programmable chiller/heater  for high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) columns has a readable temperature range from 4 to 100°C and setpoint capability to 0.1°C. The control software regulates temperatures to±0.2°C, even at ambient conditions. The CO50 has…