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New Products & Services

May 2006

May New Products (North American Edition)

Handle viscous materials with this double planetary mixer

The new HV Blades on this DPM Model (photo, right upper middle) enable the mixing of ultra-high viscosity (up to 8,000,000 cP) formulations. Additional advantages of these teflon-coated blades are that they: clean the walls and vessel bottom during mixing; eliminate climbing of viscous materials; and produce a continuous, balanced mixing action that eliminates amperage spikes. The DPM Model is available in working-capacity sizes from 0.5 pint through 750 gal. Optional features include sanitary designs, special benches, and vacuum and pressure sealing. — Charles Ross and Son Co., Hauppauge, N.Y.

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Use these transmitters in dusty environments

Designed as an alternative to tube-style mechanical gauges, these pressure transmitters (photo, left top) feature a large, ceramic diaphragm that is durable and will not clog. Both differential and static configurations are available in ranges to as low as 0–10 in. w.c. A 4–20-mA output is provided. — FilterSense, Beverly, Mass.

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This seal is an alternative to packing glands

Originally conceived for high-temperature and high-speed applications, this single-face seal design operates without a purge or flush system. The Outside Face Seal (OFS) (photo, right bottom) is particularly suited to top-entry agitators, where long, cantilevered shafts can exhibit high runout and angular misalignment. The OFS will permit significant axial motion, making it suitable for applications where there is shaft float and thermal expansion. The seal is available unsplit or fully split and in a wide variety of materials for chemical compatibility. — Woodex Bearing Co., Meco Seals Div., Georgetown, Maine

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Low-profile conveyors provide versatility

The 250 Series of conveyors (photo, right lower middle) combines a center drive and very-low profile (1.89 in.) that allow these units to be used in tight spaces where conventional conveyors would not fit. With a load-carrying capacity of 630 lb and speeds up to 360 ft/min, the 250 Series can be used in manufacturing plants as well as distribution centers, packaging lines and more. Belt widths of 2 to 4 in. are available, in lengths from 4 to 28 ft. — QC Industries, Cincinnati, Ohio

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Handle potent compounds safely in a containment system

Protecting workers from exposure to hazardous compounds poses an increasing challenge, particularly to pharmaceutical manufacturers, who process potent, active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). The GBK Containment System (photo, p.33D-1, left bottom) is an all-in-one contained glove bag/housing system for filter change-outs. Operators can access replacement filters from zippered feed-in sleeves and then remove spent filters through a feed-out sleeve using nitrile gloves. Sealed sleeves are also available for more critical applications where additional protection is needed. GBK glove bags are made of antistatic polyurethane with a built-in HEPA filter to prevent condensation. Independent tests show that this system could be used to provide a containment level to 1 mg/m3. — Pall Corp., East Hills, N.Y.

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This Coriolis meter offers high-flowrate capability

This Coriolis mass flowmeter combines large-line service, high-flowrate capability and measurement accuracy in a standard product. The Model CMU (photo, p.33D-1, right top) is designed for line sizes from 0.25 to 12 in. and measures flowrates from 2.2 to 80,800 lb/hr. In addition to true mass flow, the CMU measures fluid temperature, density and volumetric flow. The meter’s “U” tube flow-sensor design features a lightweight tube, minimal welding and vibration-dampening technology. For applications where density measurement is needed, the CMU is available with optional density calibrations. Selections include a 3-point or 5-point density calibration. — Fluid Components International (FCI), San Marcos, Calif.

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Analyze particle shape and image with this instrument

The new QICPIC analyzer (photo) gathers details on particles such as length, sphericity and aspect ratio. The data are classified and sorted on a PC and allow an operator to rapidly see “offending” particles. Suitable for use on either wet or dry powders, fibers and granulations, the QICPIC can handle particle sizes from 1 to 10,000 mm. — Sympatec Inc., Lawrenceville, N.J.

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Get pulseless low-flow fluid delivery with this system

This programmable dispensing system is controlled by precision stepper motors and can deliver flowrates as low as 5 ml/min without pulsation. The Smooth-flo Fluid Delivery System uses three separate, valveless pumpheads that are timed to eliminate pulsation. A second stepper motor allows fine adjustments to be made by changing the stroke length. The Smooth-flo can be programmed for a variety of functions on a touch-screen interface, which can control up to 16 systems on a single bus. — Fluid Metering, Inc., Syosset, N.Y.

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A two-piece valve control module has been released

This two-piece valve control module is now being included with this manufacturer’s W-Series single- and double-seat valves. The two-piece module has an easy screw-on acrylic top, stainless-steel base and upgraded features that include: a lift-off design with no disassembly or electrical disconnection required for removal, up to three solenoids, and the ability to accommodate all current switch options. A seat-wear option is available for single-seat valves. — SPX Process Equipment, Delavan, Wis.

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Sample from multiple streams with a single valve module

The SSV Series Stream Selector System (photo, p.33D-4, left) delivers a representative sample from multiple sample streams to a single analyzer. These modular assemblies are ANSI/ISA 76.00.02 compatible and accommodate multiple process streams in a limited amount of space. Each stream is controlled by a double-block-and-bleed module to eliminate cross contamination and maintain sample integrity. — Swagelok Co., Solon, Ohio

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This station moves to make filling easier

The new Material Master Powerfill (photo) features a horizontal pivoting and rotating bag-fill carriage. The bag support carriage and fill head lower to a programmed operator height, extend towards the operator, and then rotate for a “reach-free” bag-strap and bag-spout connection. The unit includes touch-screen controls. — Material Transfer & Storage, Inc., Allegan, Mich.

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Concurrent batching and blending cuts cycle times

In this pneumatic batching system (photo, right), bulk-bag dischargers are mounted on load cells to allow loss-of-weight batching from either or both bulk bags. Minor, pre-weighed ingredients are added at the manual dumping station, where a high-velocity vacuum fan draws dust away from the operator onto two cartridge filters. A filter receiver, at the end of the vacuum-conveyor line, accumulates the batch. The material is then discharged through a slide-gate valve into a ribbon blender, allowing concurrent batching and blending of materials. — Flexicon Corp., Bethlehem, Pa.

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Use these filters for demanding refinery processes

HyPulse LSI filters are designed for applications that include high-temperature operation (up to 650°F), high-efficiency liquid/solids separations, backwashability and continuous operation. They can be used in processes such as removal of FCC catalyst fines from slurry oil. The LSI filter will remove suspended solids down to 50 ppm and lower. Particle retention size can be down to 0.1 mm, depending on the porous metal-media grade. A wide selection of filter media are available, ranging from standard 316L stainless steel to corrosive-resistant nickel and Hastelloy. — Mott Corp., Farmington, Conn.

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May New Products (International Edition)  

Prevent inadvertent positioner changes

Among the new enhancements for the Aumatic modular integral actuator control system (photo, upper left) is a new antibackdrive device for applications where high-static loads or heavy vibrations could inadvertently modify the valve position. The retaining torque of the antibackdrive device, which is as large as the maximum tripping torque of the actuator, ensures that accidental modifications of the positioner are avoided. Brake motors are not required because the device is mounted between the actuator and the valve. The antibackdrive device is available in enclosure protection IP 67 and 68, and is approved for use in potentially explosive atmospheres. — AUMA Riester GmbH & Co. KG, Müllheim, Germany

 

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New fluoropolymer for special applications

Made with Advanced Polymer Architecture, the FDA-compliant Viton GF-600S and Viton Extreme ETP-600S fluoroelastomers have been developed specifically for critical pharmaceutical-, food- and beverage-process sealing, where repeated use and food-contact compliance is required. Viton A-401C offers excellent resistance to compression set and to aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbons. These recent developments are available through the company’s Genuine Viton program, which ensures that the sealing products are made of 100% Viton. — DuPont Performance Elastomers, Wilmington, Del.

 

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Consider this seal for pumping light hydrocarbons

The QBQ LZ contacting-face mechanical seal (photo, p. 24I-2, right) provides reliable sealing with low emissions for pumps in light hydrocarbon (HC) service at low vapor pressure margins (between 0.34 and 4.40 bar). The seal has been optimized for operating with light HCs of specific gravity between 0.4 and 0.60, making it especially suitable for use in petroleum refineries and other industries that pump ethane, ethylene, propane, butane and related liquids. The seal solves the problem of vaporization in light HC service by altering temperature and pressure dynamics on the seal faces. Using Precision Face Topography technology, smooth low-amplitude patented wave patterns, are laser-machined onto the seal face to create a stable hydrodynamic effect that changes the pressure profile on the seal faces and reduces friction and contact loads without increasing leakage. — Flowserve Flow Solutions, Dallas, Tex.

 

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CIP & SIP does not affect the per-formance of these hygienic seals

When degreased by clean-in-place (CIP) and steam-in-place (SIP) cleaning regimes, elastomeric seals have a tendency to stick, which reduces the seal’s performance and leads to rapid degradation of seals and the possibility of contamination. Such problems are overcome with the new Turcon MF materials (photo, lower left), which are specially designed for use in static, dynamic and semi-dynamic hygienic-processing applications. Turcon MF is a proprietary PTFE-based material that is compliant with FDA regulations and the EU Plastics Directive. The sealing material performs at temperatures up to 260°C. — Busak + Shamban, Solihull, U.K.

 

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Account for all material with these sieves

Unlike traditional woven-wire constructions, these sieves and meshes (photo, p. 24I-1, upper right) made by photo ElectroForming have no crossover areas. As a result, no sieved material can become trapped during sieving, filtering or grading processes, ensuring that all of the fine particulate material can be accounted for. The new meshes can be custom produced with bespoke aperture shapes and sizes, and with aperture tolerances from ±2 microns. Mesh thickness can be selectively increased beyond 1:1 aspect ratios to meet strength and rigidity requirements. — Tecan, Weymouth, U.K.

 

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These spheres make lighter-weight structures possible

Metal-coated, hollow ceramic spheres are available that allow engineers to manufacture high-strength, low-weight parts with controlled thermal conductivity and thermal expansion. The aluminum, magnesium and nickel coatings are more than 99% pure and have a consistent thickness. The microspheres can be pressed or forged into lightweight structures or substrate; the structures can also be machined. Mg-coated hollow ceramic spheres can be used, for example, to produce structures that are 20–40% lighter than beryllium and 40–50% lighter than aluminum. — Accumet Materials, Co., Briarcliff Manor, N.Y.

 

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This actuator doesn’t use compressed air

The SideStep motorized actuator (photo, p. 24I-1, lower right) can be used whenever automated valves are required but no compressed air is available. The actuator can be mounted to metal globe, plastic and metal-diaphragm valves. A basic version for open/closed operation, and a High-End version, with an integrated position/process control module (PID) are available. RS 232, Web interface, Profibus DP and (in the future) Bluetooth and AS-Interface versions can be provided. — GEMÜ Gebr. Müller Apparatebau GmbH & Co. KG, Ingelfingen-Criesbach, Germany

 

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A sensor for measuring very low flows

This firm has launched its third-generation MEMS-based, liquid flow sensors for microfluidic systems. The component can be integrated into analytical instruments and medical devices, and can be used in other life-science applications. A high level of on-chip integration results in significant reductions in cost, size and weight. The key feature of the third-generation sensor is the merging of the sensor element with digital intelligence for linearization and temperature compensation on the same microchip. The device measures liquid flowrates down to nL/min with a very short response time. The largest model is designed for flowrates up to 3 mL/min. — Sensirion AG, Zurich, Switzerland

 

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Model-based innovation service launched

At Achema, this firm launched its new and industry-unique Model-Based Innovation (MBI) service. Built around the company’s gPROMS Advanced Process Modelling (APM) environment, MBI combines high-fidelity models of processes or products with modern R&D methodologies to provide high-quality information for innovation decision support. This allows companies to manage risk based on accurate quantitative information, and to closely integrate R&D and engineering activities. The result is faster innovation, improved designs of processes and products, enhancement of existing operations and lower R&D costs. MBI has been successfully applied in new reactor design, fuel cell development, crystallizer scaleup and new catalyst design. — Process Systems Enterprise, Ltd., London, England

 

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New heat exchanger offers benefits for beverages

Launched at the Anuga Foodtec Fair (Cologne; April 4–7), the NT 100X, 50X and 50M plate heat exchangers are designed for applications in the food industry, especially the dairy, fruit-juice and brewing sectors. Special profiling ensures optimized flow over the entire plate width. The pressure-resistant plate ensures gentle product treatment and the design is distinguished by a self-cleaning effect, easy maintenance and low investment costs. The NT 100X is also available as a three-stage pasteurizer. — GEA Ecoflex,

Sarstedt, Germany

 

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Pinch valves for controlling powder flow

Process applications involving powders, granulars or similar media containing solids present unique challenges to inline components such as valves, especially the potential for them to become caked or clogged. Pinch valves (photo, upper right) are ideal for handling these types of media; they provide a complete seal, without the need for glands, so there is nothing to prevent a full, uninterrupted flow. Pressure drop problems are also avoided, even when viscous or paste-like liquids are involved. The valves have outer flanges made of cast iron, and stainless-steel plating with Neoprene coating is available as an option. The valves operate with line pressures up to 4 bar and control pressures to 6 bar. Models with PVC bodies are available in sizes from DN 20 to 40, while aluminum versions can be supplied up to DN300. — Milton Roy UK Ltd., Wokingham, U.K.

 

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Performance supervision ensures optimal MPC

The goal of model predictive controller (MPC) supervision is to ensure that the MPCs continue to run optimally. Without performance supervision in place, MPC performance often degrades over time, even to the point of being disabled by operations, says the firm. PlantTriage Performance Supervision software now supervises MPCs, using economic information and controller data to calculate assessments that quickly indicate if the MPC is continuing to provide a high return on investment. Within PlantTriage, MPC performance is tracked, trended (photo, upper left), and historized at the controller, unit, plant and site levels. Web-based visualization tools display the information in an intuitive manner. “Drill-down” capabilities are used to drive analysis to root cause. One of the unique MPC assessment features included with PlantTriage is Controller Entropy, which detects and tracks when a controller is making moves, which results in cycling between constrains. — ExperTune Inc., Hartland, Wisc.

 

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An economical alternative to metering pumps

Based on the same hydraulically balanced diaphragm principles as traditional diaphragm metering pumps, the Hydra-Cell Metering Solution (photo, lower) can save as much as 20–30% on initial purchase, says the manufacturer. Evaluation of lifetime costs has shown that significant savings can also be made in terms of maintenance, repair and energy costs. The multidiaphragm pump head produces very low pulsation, removing the need for pulsation dampers in many systems, and eliminating expensive multiplexing pump arrangements. Having no dynamic seals, the pump can handle abrasive, corrosive, viscous and non-lubricating fluids. — Wanner International Ltd., Church Crookham,

Hants., England

 

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A new series of process-gas analyzer

The X-Stream Series of analyzers utilizes non-dispersive infrared, ultraviolet and visible spectroscopy, with sensors selected to use thermal conductivity measurements or paramagnetic-electrochemical oxygen technology. X-Stream analyzers offer single or dual-channel analysis using the Rosemount Analytical dual optical bench, and provide realtime control. The instruments can be used for measuring O2, CO, CO2 or H2 to provide process control, detect contamination or monitor process safety. The analyzers are available in either tabletop or rack-mounted versions, or as a field mounted IP66/NEMA 4X version (photo) that can be purged or pressurized for ATEX-approved installation in Zone 1 or 2 hazardous areas. — Emerson Process Management,

Bredbury, U.K.

 

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Process viscometers for many applications

The MIVI Sensor is especially designed for measuring viscosity under severe process conditions, handling pressures up to 300 bar, temperatures to 300°C and viscosities up to 106 (mPa)(s). The instruments can be used in hazardous locations, including explosion-proof areas according to ATEX, JIS and FMR standards. The sensors are available in a wide range of materials (including 316L and 316 stainless steel, titanium, Hastelloy) and coatings (amorphous diamond-like carbon, PTFE and enamel). The sensors can be installed online, inline and on-reactor, and they can be mounted in any position. — Sofraser, Villamandeur, France

 

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New features added to these melt-filtration systems

The time required to purge the patented Melt Filtration Systems — RSFgenius and SFXmagnus (photo, p. 24I-10) — has been reduced by 50%, so that, depending on the model size and type, a complete color or material change can be performed within 3 to 10 minutes. The filtration systems can also be equipped with instrumentation to allow the operator to monitor the quality of the polymer melt. For the reprocessing of PET bottle flakes, the company has developed a process that permits filtration at fineness down to 12 microns. The surface temperature of the filter has been reduced to 60°C, which can be maintained even at processing temperatures of 300°C; this results in a 35% reduction in energy consumption, says the firm. — Gneuß Kunstofftechnik GmbH, Bad

Oeynhausen, Germany

 

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A new ceramic for laboratory bench tops

Mopnolite Ipergres is a ceramic that can be easily molded into medium to large slabs for laboratory benches. The material is said to offer superior resistance to bumps, scratches and chemicals compared to harder marbles and granites. The slabs are self supporting and are available in two different ranges: Super light has an average thickness of 20 mm with 38 mm rims to prevent overflow; and Light has 48-mm thick rims. The material can be fabricated to include holes for sinks (photo, p. 24I-2, left) and fittings, and can be glazed. Slabs are available with 2,100 by 1,000 mm dimensions, which can be cut to the customer’s specifications. — Laboratorio Pesaro S.r.l., Montelabbate, Italy

 

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Consider the advantages of vacuum conveying

A new generation of vacuum conveyors and Multijector Vacuum Pumps (photo) were unveiled at Achema by this manufacturer. A new nozzle system, designed using flow simulations and empirical data, is said to decrease compressed-air consumption while increasing the suction capacity. With the vacuum conveying system, cross contamination is avoided because all parts that come into contact with the material to be conveyed can easily be disassembled and cleaned without tools. Washing and CIP functions are also available as a modular upgrade for the conveyors. Unlike pneumatic conveying, which uses a positive pressure, vacuum conveying is inherently dust-free because dust clouds are sucked in and the powder transfer takes place in a closed loop; material flow cannot leave the transport hose or pipe. As a result, the system is especially suitable for conveying very fine powders, such as toner. — Volkmann GmbH, Soest, Germany

 

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New mills and particle-analyzer software unveiled

At Achema, this company introduced the “premium line”, a new generation of planetary mill, which offers improved handling, power and safety. New laser-particle-sizing software will also be unveiled, which enables measuring particle sizes in the range from 0.1 to 2,000 µm while simultaneously analyzing the particle’s shape. — Fritsch GmbH, Idar-Oberstein, Germany

 

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Consider NMR for tracking process parameters

The Qualion process NMR analyzer has been enhanced to offer greater reliability and stability with a 40% reduction in footprint. The new analyzer measures, in real time, a wider range of physical, chemical and biological parameters, resulting in a high level of plant utilization and profitability. The process NMR spectrometer is ATEX certified, and is mainly designed for the petroleum refining and petrochemical industries. Recent applications include crude-oil blending, feed-forward switching, and fluid catalytic cracking. — Modcon Systems Ltd., Akko, Israel

 

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Remove iron with these ATEX-approved magnets

Up to now, magnets used for preventing dust explosions could only be used in dust zone 22. With the ATEX Production Quality Assurance Notification, this firm’s rotating magnets (photo) are certified for dust zone 20. Rotating, clean-flow magnets are manufactured for products that flow poorly, such as milk or cocoa powder. The slow, rotating motion of the magnets ensures optimal contact with the product for removing iron particles while preventing buildup of sticky products on the bars. — Goudsmit Magnetic B.V., Waalre, Netherlands

 

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Disperse powders into liquids without clogging

The Megatron dispersing machine has a vertical design with a two-stage working chamber. The liquid enters the first chamber where it is dispersed with a standard rotor-stator generator, then continuously pumped into the second stage. Here the powder is sucked from above and wetted by the liquid with a specially designed impeller that creates a vacuum. The design prevents the formation of lumps that can clog conventional inline dispersers, says the firm. — Kinematica AG, Littau, Switzerland

 

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Get a handle on washing with these spray guns

Two new versions of this firm’s heavy-duty, low-spray wash guns are now available. Both versions are housed in stainless steel for applications in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries. An explosion-proof version, which features Viton sealing and a cover made of black EPDM rubber, has TÜV approval for operation in Ex Zones 1 and 2. The second version can be sterilized in an autoclave at up to 160°C, and has a cover of silicone-filled latex for applications in the pharmaceutical industry. Both wash guns provide a controlled, concentrated water spray and handle pressures up to 24 bar. — AKBO Handelsmij B.V.,

Doesburg, Netherlands

 

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Vibrating fork now has self diagnostics

A self-diagnosic function is now available for the Vibranivo Series of vibrating-fork, bulk-solids level sensor. In addition to providing a full or empty signal, the electronics also have an LED to show the quality of the signal. Possible damping of the signal as the result of material sticking to the fork, for example, is recognized early without having to take the sensor out of operation. By selecting a 4–20 mA output signal, detailed information about diminishing signal quality can be continuously displayed. — UWT GmbH, Betzigau, Germany

 

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Recover inorganic compounds by crystallization

HARDTAC (high-aspect ratio, draft-tube, agitated crystallizer) is an advanced crystallization technology that is said to improve production efficiency through generation of easily dewatered crystalline products. The HARDTAC process is suitable for the treatment and possible recovery of inorganic compounds from industrial wastewater streams, producing a relatively dry cake that can be recycled to the process. The process, which features an advanced reactor design, is said to outperform conventional treatment methods. — Veolia Water,

Paris, France

 

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Controlled welding for thin-walled tubes

The M45 weld head was introduced for the welding of stainless-steel return bends to thin-walled tubes in heating and cooling equipment. When used with the firm’s 165CB range of power supplies, the rotation of the torch is consistent, and the delivery of the welding current is also kept constant and can be varied around the circumference of the tube. This allows the input heat to be reduced as the tube sheet heats up. The heads are controlled with closed-loop servometers and parameters are monitored 500 times per second to achieve a precise and accurate control of the weld profile. M45 can be used to weld stainless steel, nickel alloys and titanium tubes with outer diameters from 6 to 20 mm. — Orbimatic GmbH,

Buseck, Germany

 

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Dosing and filling under complete control

Using Micro Motion Coriolis sensors, the Micro Motion 1500 Filling and Dosing Transmitter integrates easily into the machine control system and directly controls pumps and valves for precise control of filling processes. The integrated system simplifies the batch-delivery control loop, eliminating the need for separate controllers, resulting in removal of communication time delays, and improved fill accuracy and response times. The Coriolis flowmeters provide direct mass-flow measurement with an accuracy of better than 0.1%. Close integration of the 1500 with the filling machine is achieved with simple RS485 Modbus protocol communications. — Emerson Process Management, Bredbury, U.K.

 

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Draw, then search for CAD drawings

Versions of CADFind that are tightly integrated with AutoCAD, DWGEditor and SolidWorks are now available. This means a designer can draw or model the component that they want within their own CAD system and then search for matching parts at the click of a button. CADFind is said to be the first system in the world to search an engineering database of 2D drawings and 3D models directly from the user’s CAD system. — Applied Search Technology Ltd., Birmingham, U.K.

 

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Non-metallic valve operates at even higher temperature

Designated as AVT525, this new material of construction for valves offers improved corrosion and abrasion resistance, strength, and weight and cost savings over metallic valves, says the manufacturer. The material allows valves to operate at a new limit of 180°C, compared to 140°C for previous thermoplastics, which enables a host of new applications, including steam systems, coke-production ovens, evaporator units and exhaust-gas systems. For handling hot corrosive media, the firm says the AVT525 material offers five times the corrosion resistance and 60% weight savings compared to metallic valves. — Advanced Valve Technologies, Houston, Tex.

 

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This software offers more thermodynamics

The latest version of Simulis Thermodynamics integrates additional calculation capabilities for properties (such as fugacity and internal energy), news flashes (temperature-volume, enthalpy-internal energy, internal energy-volume), and derivatives of available properties with respect to temperature, pressure or mole number. The software also offers the ability to automatically generate process simulation files (PSFs) that are directly usable by the Aspen TASC (HTFS) software, for heat exchanger calculations. — ProSim S.A., Labege Cedex, France

 

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This level sensor is corrosion-resistant and hygienic

The “plics” instrument family now has a member that is particularly suitable for continuous level measurements in hygienic applications as well those involving corrosive and aggressive media. Vegaflex 63 (photo) operates according to the guided microwave principle and offers advantages that include simple mounting and setup. The device provides measurements that are independent of density and the sensor is insensitive to foam and product buildup. The sensor’s PFA coating is corrosion resistant, and all materials that contact the media are food-safe. — VEGA Grieshaber KG, Schiltach, Germany

 

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