Reciprocating pumps are often used in the chemical process industries (CPI) because of their ability to generate high pressures at low velocities. A subcategory of positive-displacement pumps, reciprocating pumps act through the recipricating motion of a piston, plunger or diaphragm.…
Researchers at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL; Livermore, Calif.; www.llnl.gov) have created a nanocrystalline diamond aerogel. The new aerogel was produced by compressing a standard carbon-based aerogel precursor in a laser-heated diamond anvil cell, which consists of two opposing diamonds.…
Along with an innovative elastomeric compound, scientists at Federal Mogul Corp. (Southfield, Mich; www.federalmogul.com) have developed a rubber manufacturing process that eliminates the need for curing in a batch oven after molding. The proprietary compound, known as K16, is intended…
A research team from Los Alamos National Laboratory (Los Alamos, N.M.; www.lanl.gov) has developed a novel catalyst for the cathode of a fuel cell that avoids using expensive ($1,800/oz.) platinum metal. The cathode catalyst is on based carbon, partially derived…
A system that utilizes existing biological wastewater-treatment facilities for destruction of biodegradable volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other organic hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) has been demonstrated at three U.S. petroleum-refining and chemical facilities, and the developer has plans to extend…
Last March, KSB AG (Frankenthal, Germany; www.ksb.com), received a pump order in the double-digit, million-euro range. The pump units are intended for one of the biggest seawater-cooling plants in the world, which is situated in the industrial city of Ras…
The Thermiculite family of products for seals and gaskets offers a cost-effective alternative to industrial seals where resistance to high heat is critical. Thermiculite critical service materials are rated for temperatures up to 1,800F and meet the requirements of the…
With the new Duo-SAS-360 Isolator, it is now possible to monitor the critical microbiological quality of air in cleanrooms and isolators. Two stainless-steel aspirating heads, with a long connecting cable, can be positioned in different locations and controlled from outside…
The Pre-engineered Subsystems are a series of five, standardized subsystems for use in all types of plants and facilities where fluids are processed. Each subsystem features integrated design of key safety and efficiency measures. The first products include the following…
A PTFE diaphragm permits compact construction of this diaphragm pump, and offers cost savings for high-pressure applications. A patented pressure-supported diaphragm-fixation system is used, so that the fixation is structurally prevented from expanding during the pressure stroke. No auxiliary seal…