A stronger, more stable exhaust duct is offered
U-Lok 440 (photo) is an ultra-flexible, silicone fiberglass exhaust-extraction duct that can be used for air or fume extraction. The tubing’s patented Mechanical Lock Construction provides “superior” tear and tensile strength, which eliminates wire movements found in traditional single-ply duct, says the firm. The U-Lok 440 is rated for temperatures from –60 to 500°F (600°F intermittent) and is available in diameters from 2 to 20 in. and 25-ft lengths. — The NovaFlex Group, Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada
edlinks.chemengonline.com/5830-331
Dilute samples accurately with this pipette
The newly designed Acura manual 810 dilution pipettes (photo) are light, have a soft shape and a smooth plunger travel, which greatly reduces hand fatigue during sample dilutions. Two, pre-calibrated fixed volumes allow consecutive aspiration and subsequent pipetting of 1 and 0.1 mL of the same liquid. Used at any steps of a 1:10 dilution series, the procedure allows fast and precise sample distribution in tubes or plates. — Socorex ISBA S.A., Ecublens, Switzerland
edlinks.chemengonline.com/5830-332
This fluoropolymer tubing is for demanding applications
These fluoropolymer-tubing products (photo) can be used for fluid-handling applications such as gas, water and ozone sampling, heat exchangers, wastewater transfer and filtration. The tubing exhibits “exceptional” heat and ultraviolet resistance and has a low coefficient of friction. With operating temperatures as high as 260°C, these products are chemically inert, making them ideal for harsh environments where chemicals and corrosion are present. Standard and custom-sized tubing is available with inner diameters from 0.004 to 4 in., and made from TexFluor PTFE, FEP, MFA and PFA. They can be supplied as smoothbore, convoluted or extra-flexible corrugated. — Parflex Div., Parker Hannifin Corp., Ft. Worth, Tex.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/5830-333
Measure accurately with this in-line refractometer
The PIOX R in-line refractometer continuously measures the refractive index of a fluid, without having to remove samples for laboratory analysis. Unlike conventional, critical-angle refractometers, which measure the refractive index only at a thin boundary layer, the transit-light method used by the POIX covers the entire cross section of the fluid in a pipe This results in a 10-fold increase in accuracy and resolution, claims the firm. Furthermore, the reading is independent of the liquid’s viscosity and is not sensitive to bubbles, vibrations or pressure waves. The PIOX R300 (photo) is available in a 3/8-in. by-pass design and a spool piece design of up to 4 in. Process connections include ANSI, tri-clamp and DIN. — Flexim Instruments LLC, Oakland, Calif.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/5830-334
A better pump for sludge transfers is introduced
The recently introduced 200 HS System progressive-cavity pump (photo) is an alternative to more expensive piston pumps and the high-maintenance, open-conveyor systems that are typically used for dewatered-sludge transfer in municipal wastewater treatment. The 2000 HS incorporates a dual-auger feed and advanced control system, which boost efficiency in handling semi-dry, high-density solids, such as dewatered sludge containing over 50% solids. The system also features a non-pulsating flow, which results in the elimination of pressure spikes. A twin-screw feeder (located inside the hopper) supplies a constant, pressurized feed rate to the pump, resulting in a 100% pump-cavity fill rate. — Robbin & Myers UK Ltd., Chandlers Ford, U.K.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/5830-335
These bearings enable dry running of pumps
Dry running can inadvertently occur when a source tank empties or a valve is shut off upstream of a pump. With Dry Guard bearings (photo), magnetically driven pumps can be safely operated for longer periods of dry running. Dry Guard’s protection can last for hours, enabling operators to correct the problem before a catastrophic failure occurs. The bearings feature a diamond-like coating and are designed to significantly reduce the coefficient of friction. The Dry Guard solution is available in the company’s pump models 3296 EZMAG (an ANSI metal magnetic-drive process pump), ICM (an ISO version of the 3296 EZMAG), and the 3298 Series (a Tefzel-lined, magnet-drive pump). — Goulds Pumps, Seneca Falls, N.Y.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/5830-336
A remote version of this flowmeter is available
The guided Optiflex 1300 C is now available as a remote version (photo), which means the converter can be installed at a distance from the measurement. This can be important if there is a potential risk for operating personnel or the converter itself. The remote version is also applicable if installation space on the tank is limited, or if the tank is exposed to strong vibrations. The standard distance between the flange and the converter is 15 m. — Krohne Messtechnik GmbH & Co. KG, Duisburg, Germany
edlinks.chemengonline.com/5830-337
These couplings are easy to connect, even with gloves
The leak-free 200 Series quick connect coupling (photo) for low pressure (up to 15 bar) is said to require the lowest coupling force than any standard model on the market. Available with nominal diameters of 4, 6 and 9 mm, the couplings provide extremely low leakage rates and a minimum dead space, which also has the effect of eliminating airlocks during the connecting operation. The couplings are available in 316L stainless steel and brass (nickel or chrome plated). O-rings are available in FKM or in NBR, EPDM and FFKM on request. — Rectus AG, Eberdingen-Nussdorf, Germany
edlinks.chemengonline.com/5830-338
Reduce exposure to potent compounds with this system
The new Downflo Containment System (DCS) removes and contains compounds and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) of low, intermediate and potent toxicity. Fully tested and certified to OEL 3B, DCS is engineered to lower emissions and reduce exposure with a two-stage filtration system, an integrated HEPA BIBO chamber under negative pressure that prevents leakage, and positive, triple-sealed bag-in/bag-out arrangements. To further reduce operator exposure, the DCS features three hopper discharge options that are available for contaminant-free docking, undocking and compound transfer: a product transfer container with glove ports; a split, butterfly-valve docking system and a continuous liner with crimp and cut operations. The two-stage filtration includes a primary filter with this manufacturer’s high efficiency (MERV 13) nanofiber cartridge filters (for more information, see CE, March 2006, p.20) and second-stage HEPA filters. — Donaldson Torit, Minneapolis, Minn.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/5830-339
Clear PVC pipe allows visual contact with fluids
This PVC pipe, made to schedule 40 dimensions, combines corrosion and chemical resistance and clarity with the advantage of a rigid tube that does not need ties or clamps to hold it upright. Eight styles of fittings are available for a completely clear system. Clear-40 (photo) may also be used interchangeably with standard schedule 40 fittings of gray or white. All ingredients are non-toxic and conform to FDA standards for use with food-contact surfaces, and the product is listed by the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF 61) for use with potable water. Both the pipe and fittings are non-conductive and flame retardant. Clear-40 is readily available in nominal pipe sizes of 0.25–4 in. — New Age Industries, Southampton, Pa.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/5830-340
This dust collector eliminates the need for compressed air
The SDC Series of compact shaker-style dust collectors (photo) are designed to capture and filter airborne pollutants in intermittent-duty industrial processes while occupying minimal floor space. Upon shutdown, the SDC dust collectors automatically shake the filter media free of dust, eliminating the need for cleaning with compressed air. Additionally, these units allow for clean plant air to be recirculated, reducing exhaust and energy costs. Typical applications include bin ventilation, grinding, packaging, polishing, sanding and sawing processes. Available with multiple discharge options, the SDC shaker dust collectors handle 300–8,000 ft3/min. — United Air Specialists, Inc.,
Cincinnati, Ohio
edlinks.chemengonline.com/5830-341
These transmitters measure moisture in hazardous zones
The DewPro line of moisture and humidity transmitters has been upgraded to offer wider operational ranges and certified packages that are rated for hazardous-area requirements. Different versions of these loop-powered transmitters can measure either dew-point temperatures from –90 to 10°C (using a planar aluminum oxide sensor) or relative humidity from 0 to 100% in process temperatures up to 150°C (using a polymer-based capacitance sensor). The DewPro transmitters are available with intrinsic safety or explosion-proof certifications. Applications include moisture measurement in dry-air systems, glove boxes, specialty gases, blast furnaces, grain, gas turbines and other drying processes. — GE Sensing, Billerica, Mass.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/5830-342
This flange offers global appeal for static mixers
The new Multi-Bolt Flange was designed for metric-system applications. Designed for this manufacturer’s T-Series line of static mixers, this solution allows connection to a wider range of flanges without the need for a transition or conversion flange. The Multi-Bolt Flange is available in 2- to 8-in. diameters and in both PVC and CPVC materials. — TAH Industries, Inc., Robbinsville, N.J.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/5830-343
These transmitters convert vibration to 4–20 mA signals
This simple two-wire transmitter can be wired directly to your PLC or DCS for early warning of impending problems. The ST5484E can be applied to motors, compressors, pumps and engines as well as to other applications. The transmitter features the Independent Polarity Terminal (IPT) circuit to eliminate sensor-wiring errors, and has built-in protection against shock and cross-axis interference. Options include three types of electrical connections, six mounting-stud configurations, epoxy or hermetic sealing, dynamic signal, high- and low-pass filters and hazardous area approvals. — Metrix Instrument Co., Houston, Tex.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/5830-344
This microprocessor is for development and production
Launched last month at Achema (May 15–19, Frankfurt), Siprocess (photo) is an open, modular microprocessor system with integrated automation. Designed for applications in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries, Siprocess can be used in developing new, or optimizing existing, processes and for producing initial product batches. Up to three, liquid-phase reaction products can be developed in the micro-technology-based system, and it can also be used for producing up to several tons of a desired product per year. Siprocess is composed of 15-cm wide, stainless-steel modules that perform the following functions: dosing, mixing, reacting and sampling, as well as controlling the process temperature and pressure. Each module has its own sensors and electronics with pre-configured functions. The module is connected via a data bus to the Simatic PCS 7 process control system. — Siemens Automation and Drives, Nuremberg, Germany
edlinks.chemengonline.com/5830-345
A stronger, more stable exhaust duct is offered
U-Lok 440 (photo) is an ultra-flexible, silicone fiberglass exhaust-extraction duct that can be used for air or fume extraction. The tubing’s patented Mechanical Lock Construction provides “superior” tear and tensile strength, which eliminates wire movements found in traditional single-ply duct, says the firm. The U-Lok 440 is rated for temperatures from –60 to 500°F (600°F intermittent) and is available in diameters from 2 to 20 in. and 25-ft lengths. — The NovaFlex Group, Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada
edlinks.chemengonline.com/5830-331
Dilute samples accurately with this pipette
The newly designed Acura manual 810 dilution pipettes (photo) are light, have a soft shape and a smooth plunger travel, which greatly reduces hand fatigue during sample dilutions. Two, pre-calibrated fixed volumes allow consecutive aspiration and subsequent pipetting of 1 and 0.1 mL of the same liquid. Used at any steps of a 1:10 dilution series, the procedure allows fast and precise sample distribution in tubes or plates. — Socorex ISBA S.A., Ecublens, Switzerland
edlinks.chemengonline.com/5830-332
This fluoropolymer tubing is for demanding applications
These fluoropolymer-tubing products (photo) can be used for fluid-handling applications such as gas, water and ozone sampling, heat exchangers, wastewater transfer and filtration. The tubing exhibits “exceptional” heat and ultraviolet resistance and has a low coefficient of friction. With operating temperatures as high as 260°C, these products are chemically inert, making them ideal for harsh environments where chemicals and corrosion are present. Standard and custom-sized tubing is available with inner diameters from 0.004 to 4 in., and made from TexFluor PTFE, FEP, MFA and PFA. They can be supplied as smoothbore, convoluted or extra-flexible corrugated. — Parflex Div., Parker Hannifin Corp., Ft. Worth, Tex.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/5830-333
Measure accurately with this in-line refractometer
The PIOX R in-line refractometer continuously measures the refractive index of a fluid, without having to remove samples for laboratory analysis. Unlike conventional, critical-angle refractometers, which measure the refractive index only at a thin boundary layer, the transit-light method used by the POIX covers the entire cross section of the fluid in a pipe This results in a 10-fold increase in accuracy and resolution, claims the firm. Furthermore, the reading is independent of the liquid’s viscosity and is not sensitive to bubbles, vibrations or pressure waves. The PIOX R300 (photo) is available in a 3/8-in. by-pass design and a spool piece design of up to 4 in. Process connections include ANSI, tri-clamp and DIN. — Flexim Instruments LLC, Oakland, Calif.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/5830-334
A better pump for sludge transfers is introduced
The recently introduced 200 HS System progressive-cavity pump (photo) is an alternative to more expensive piston pumps and the high-maintenance, open-conveyor systems that are typically used for dewatered-sludge transfer in municipal wastewater treatment. The 2000 HS incorporates a dual-auger feed and advanced control system, which boost efficiency in handling semi-dry, high-density solids, such as dewatered sludge containing over 50% solids. The system also features a non-pulsating flow, which results in the elimination of pressure spikes. A twin-screw feeder (located inside the hopper) supplies a constant, pressurized feed rate to the pump, resulting in a 100% pump-cavity fill rate. — Robbin & Myers UK Ltd., Chandlers Ford, U.K.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/5830-335
A faster way to monitor air in cleanrooms
The Lasair II 350L (photo) particle-measuring system counts particles as small as 300 nm while sampling at 50 L/min, making it suitable for cleanroom monitoring. The battery-operated, portable device, which weighs only 15.5 lb, is equipped with a chemical-resistant cover that can be sterilized. The system’s high flowrate leads to faster monitoring times, which saves labor costs, says the firm. — PMT Partikel-Messtechnik AG, Heimsheim, Germany
edlinks.chemengonline.com/5830-346
Accessories are easy to mount to this vacuum pump
The new Innovac 60 vacuum system (photo) uses triple-valve technology to enhance performance to 60 L/min flow and vacuum as low as 12 mbar. The pump’s wetted parts are constructed of PTFE, making the Innovac chemically resistant to virtually all corrosive gases and solvent vapors. The pump also features a composite-bond diaphragm system for extended service life, and a T-Slot rail for quick and easy mounting of accessories without the need for additional scaffolding or base-plates. Accessories include vapor trap for collecting liquids and during wet applications, a condenser to eliminate the need for an external fume-extraction system, and an electronic vacuum controller. — Charles Austen Pumps Ltd., Byfleet, U.K.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/5830-347
This palletizer handles very large capacities
To meet the trend of increasing throughputs at the packaging plants of chemical facilities, such as for plastic pellets and granulated polyethylene, this firm has developed a high-capacity palletizer, the paletpac 2500. The increased capacity of up to 2,500 bags/h has been achieved by the application of a new clamp-turning device that rotates the filled bags faster into the required packing orientation. The paletpac 2500 palletizes in all requested packing patterns up to a package height of 2,400 mm and on all established pallets. A complete high-capacity packaging line can be formed when the paletpac 2500 is combined with the company’s stretch hood or shrink-film packaging machines. — Beumer Maschinenfabrik GmbH & Co. KG, Beckum, Germany
edlinks.chemengonline.com/5830-348
A remote version of this flowmeter is available
The guided Optiflex 1300 C is now available as a remote version (photo, p. 28I-3) which means the converter can be installed remotely from the measurement. This can be important if there is a potential risk for operating personnel or the converter itself. The remote version is also applicable if installation space on the tank is limited, or if the tank is exposed to strong vibrations. The standard distance between the flange and the converter is 15 m. — Krohne Messtechnik GmbH & Co. KG, Duisburg, Germany
edlinks.chemengonline.com/5830-337
These couplings are easy to connect, even with gloves
The leak-free 200 Series quick connect coupling (photo) for low pressure (up to 15 bar) is said to require the lowest coupling force than any standard model on the market. Available with nominal diameters of 4, 6 and 9 mm, the couplings provide extremely low leakage rates and a minimum dead space, which also has the effect of eliminating airlocks during the connecting operation. The couplings are available in 316L stainless steel and brass (nickel or chrome plated). O-rings are available in FKM or in NBR, EPDM and FFKM on request. — Rectus AG, Eberdingen-Nussdorf, Germany
edlinks.chemengonline.com/5830-338
New bearings enable dry running of mag-drive pumps
Dry running can inadvertently occur when a source tank empties or a valve is shut off upstream of a pump. With Dry Guard bearings (photo), magnetically driven pumps can be safely operated for longer periods of dry running. Dry Guard’s protection can last for hours, enabling operators to correct the problem before a catastrophic failure occurs. The bearings feature a diamond-like coating and are designed to significantly reduce the coefficient of friction. The Dry Guard solution is available in the company’s pump models 3296 EZMAG (an ANSI metal magnetic-drive process pump), ICM (an ISO version of the 3296 EZMAG), and the 3298 Series (a Tefzel-lined, magnet-drive pump). — Goulds Pumps, Seneca Falls, N.Y.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/5830-336
An analog converter bridges Ex zones
The Mini Analog signal converters and isolators (photo) can now be used in Ex areas. All available devices in this product line now fulfill the requirements for type n explosion protection, which means that the modules are suitable for installations in Ex Zone 2. Also, sensors (such as the PT 100 resistance thermometers) and actuators from Ex Zone 1 that fulfill the explosion category 2 G, but are not listed in the intrinsically safe explosion protection type, can also be connected. As a result of their compact design and power-bridging option using DIN-rail bus connectors, Mini Analog signal converters can be installed in decentralized signal-distributor boxes directly at the transition point between Ex Zone 1 and 2. — Phoenix Contact, Blomberg, Germany
edlinks.chemengonline.com/5830-349
A microprocessor for development and production
Launched last month at Achema (May 15–19, Frankfurt), Siprocess (photo) is an open, modular microprocessor system with integrated automation. Designed for applications in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries, Siprocess can be used in developing new, or optimizing existing, processes and for producing initial product batches. Up to three, liquid-phase reaction products can be developed in the micro-technology-based system, and it can also be used for producing up to several tons of a desired product per year. Siprocess is composed of 15-cm wide, stainless-steel modules that perform the following functions: dosing, mixing, reacting and sampling, as well as controlling the process temperature and pressure. Each module has its own sensors and electronics with pre-configured functions. The module is connected via a data bus to the Simatic PCS 7 process control system. — Siemens Automation and Drives, Nuremberg, Germany
NexGen Technologies, LLC (Farmington Hills, Mich.; edlinks.chemengonline.com/5830-552) has commercialized a next-generation of engineered surface treatments that imparts wear-resistance, anti-galling, anti sieze and reduced friction to a wide range of substrates. The treatment process involves a proprietary plasma-delivery system operating at below 80°C, which produces a vacuum-deposited, nanostructured, multiple-layered surface without altering the base material properties. Surface thicknesses range from 1 to 12 µm, and can increase the surface hardness to 2,800–4,500 Vickers.