Researchers at the Georgia Institute of Technology (Ga. Tech; Atlanta; www.gatech.edu) have demonstrated a precision-machining technique to manufacture an entire pumping loop from materials that can withstand temperatures as high as 1,400–1,600°C. These materials are typically thought to be too…
Polymer-electrolyte fuel cells (PEFCs) are promising devices for clean power generation in automotive, stationary and portable applications. Up to now, the proton exchange membranes (PEMs) used in PEFCs have been based on perfluorosulfonic acid (PFSA) ionomers (for example, Nafion). However,…
A new process for producing lithium titanate oxide (LTO) anode materials could lead to smaller batteries with ultrafast recharging. LTO offers a significantly higher surface area than graphite anode materials, which enables rapid electron transit and, ultimately, much faster recharging…
After years of testing and development, Atlas Copco Compressors LLC (Rock Hill, S.C.; www.atlascopco.us) will begin production of a new air-dryer technology by the end of this year. Unlike conventional drying systems, the MDG rotary drum dryer guarantees a stable…
Air Products signs agreement for coal-to-syngas facility in China November 13, 2017 — Air Products (Lehigh Valley, Pa.; www.airproducts.com) and Shaanxi Future Energy Group Co. (SFEC) signed an agreement for a $3.5-billion coal-to-syngas production facility to be built in Yulin…
Using zinc-based coatings to protect galvanized steel from corrosion has been standard practice in the steel industry for decades, but these processes have several key disadvantages. First, achieving longer corrosion performance requires thicker layers of zinc, which raises costs and…
Significant workforce-related hurdles remain in place for CPI companies, but signs of progress are emerging For the past several years, companies in the chemical process industries (CPI) have been grappling with three consequential workforce issues that have also plagued other…
Landfill leachate and other challenging wastewaters incur rising treatment and disposal costs. Technology developed by Heartland Water Technology, Inc. (Hudson, Mass.; www.heartlandtech.com) can lower costs for treating wastewater by slashing wastewater volumes by 95% or more, using waste heat as…
Optimization, advanced process control and performance monitoring are possible via simulation tools Software advances, including faster computations and ease of use, are opening new doors for simulation software applications in chemical process industries (CPI) facilities, allowing processors to extend the…
The TW Series turbine flowmeter (photo) provides flow measurement of oils, water and chemicals with±1% of reading or better and 0.1% repeatability. TW Series turbine meters are available in flow ranges from 0.6 to 5,000 gal/min and feature 316 stainless-steel…