Tuesday, January 24, 2012

United Electric Controls Pressure & Temperature Plant Safety Solutions

Whether it’s protecting valuable equipment, processes or your loyal employees, creating a safe work environment is a corporate responsibility. Installing safety instrumentation not only protects critical equipment and processes; it also creates a safe work environment for your employees and a healthier environment for us all.

UE’s One Series digital pressure and temperature switch comes with complete Failure Modes, Effects and Diagnostics Analysis (FMEDA) data from Exida, enabling plant safety personnel to reliably calculate Safety Integrity Levels (SIL). The rugged One Series is installed in the field, at the point of critical monitoring, with response times 5X faster than a transmitter, providing immediate, local shutdown, while streamlining wiring and software. For your plant safety requirements, simplify and improve reliability with the One Series for all critical pressure and temperature shutdown applications.

Direct-Acting Safety Shutdown
The rugged and reliable One Series pressure and One Series temperature switch protects equipment, processes and personnel. It is installed where needed, in the field, with direct-acting on/off digital switching. With 0.1% repeatability combinded with solid-state reliability and on-board diagnostics, the One Series is the clear choice for critical plant safety applications.

Faster Response Time Than A Transmitter
Plant safety requires immediate response to dangerous conditions. The One Series response time is 60 mS, five-times faster than a process transmitter. And, with direct switching capability at the point of critical conditions, it provides an alternative technology to the overreliance on transmitters and central control systems, eliminating the possibility of “Common Mode Failure.”
 
Electronic Pressure, DP & Temperature Switches
• Fully adjustable set point and deadband
• 5X faster than a transmitter and 50% less installed cost
• Digital display includes process, status and self-diagnostics
• 2-wire and loop-powered 4-20 mA models available
• Measures gage pressure, differential pressure or temperature
• 0.1% repeatability with temperature compensation
• Provides the functions of a switch, gauge and transmitter
• Ranges to 6000 psi (410 bar), 200 psid (13.8 bar), 1000˚F (538˚C)

On-Board Diagnostics
The One Series continually checks health status for circuit and sensor integrity, providing extra assurance that it stands ready to perform when needed. In addition, it provides a “pulsed” output that can be activated to help distinguish a critical alarm or shutdown signal above the frequent control room “noise” of false trip signals that may be ignored or disabled at operator discretion.

Suitable For SIL2 Applications
Request the "EXIDA" Failure Modes, Effects, Diagnostics Analysis (FMEDA) report from UE covering the One Series, enabling you to calculate the Safety Integrity Level (SIL) for your applications. Also request the SIL Verification Summary report to compare the One Series with generic switches and transmitters. Go to www.ueonline.com for copies of these 3rd party reports.

I AM WORKING (IAW):
The Role of Self-Diagnostics in SIS Applications
All One Series electronic switches include powerful self-diagnostics. Critial functions of the One Series are checked during initialization, and then continuously monitored by the IAW® algorithm. Detected faults are reported using three methods of annunciation:
  1. The local digital display provides clear fault indications at a glance
  2. Each fail-safe switch will open, providing a remote fault indication
  3. On models that include 4-20 mA output, the analog signal will indicate 0, 3.5, 22 or 24 mA, depending on the type of fault.
IAW PROGRAMMING MODE AND RESULTING SWITCH STATES
The fail-safe-open IAW® programming mode provides a predictable annunciation that differentiates between an upset process variable and a detected fault using a single discrete “switch” output.
  • When process and instrument conditions are normal, the One Series switch is pulsed, sending out a continuous heartbeat signal that is easily detected by the safety PLC.
  •  
  • When the process variable reaches the programmed set point, the One Series switch will close, indicating that the process is upset but the One Series remains functioning (no faults detected).
  •  
  • If the switch opens, this condition indicates a fault detected by the IAW® self-diagnostics. The reporting scheme also accounts for wiring integrity. If a wire is broken or power is lost, this type of “fault” would also appear as an open switch to the safety PLC.


For more infromation on how the One Series from United Electric Controls can maximize your plant safety efforts please contact Forber Scientific, Inc. customer Service
Toll Free: 855-288-5330

     

Friday, January 13, 2012

Active & passive temperature compensation of pressure sensors

Author: Dominik Lorenz
Posted: Knowledge

How does an active or passive temperature compensation of pressure transmitters actually work? High-quality pressure transmitters, especially those used in precision critical applications, are almost always provided with an individual temperature compensation. But what is actually the difference between an active and a passive temperature compensation of these sensors?

Passive temperature compensation:
Sections of the characteristic accuracy curve of the pressure sensor are measured at different temperatures during the manufacturing process. Then, the previously determined temperature errors are compensated by passive elements (resistors) within the electronics of the sensor or by corrections of specifically designed resistance structures directly on the sensor element itself (e.g. by laser-trimming). The (passive) resistor elements used have an almost linear temperature behaviour, it is, however, only possible to compensate 1st order errors. Temperature errors of higher order, i.e. strong bending of the characteristic curve under temperature, can not be compensated.

Active temperature compensation:
Here too, the characteristic curve of the pressure transmitters is measured at different temperatures during the manufacturing process. However, the pressure transmitter has an additional integrated temperature sensor which constantly measures the temperature of the sensor and transfers it to the pressure transmitter’s signal processing. In practice, two methods of active temperature compensation are common: the first method compensates by means of a limited number of samples, , i.e. discrete correction values, between which interpolation takes place. The second method uses the electronics of the transmitter and a higher-order equation resulting from the regression of the acquired measurement values in order to compensate then the expected error.

During operation, this signal processing makes it possible to automatically, i.e. “actively”, compensate the pressure transmitter‘s temperature error using the calculated correction factors within a specified temperature range 50-140°F (e.g. 10-60°C).

The most commonly used method to minimise temperature errors of pressure sensors is a passive temperature compensation. This is the traditional method which is widely used. However, active temperature compensation is the top class of possible compensation methods. WIKA has constantly improved and refined this technology in recent years.

The pressure transmitters of WIKA using active temperature compensation therefore feature a temperature error which is almost zero in their specified temperature range.

If you would like to get more information about WIKA pressure transmitters or other WIKA products please contace Forberg Scientific, Inc. customer service.
Toll Free: 1-855-288-5330
Email: mechanicalsales@forberg.com

Wednesday, January 11, 2012

Pressure Transmitters Applications for Wind Turbines

Pressure Transducer Usage Wind Turbines for Alternative Energy Generation in Energy and Power Generation
Author: Wika

Wind Turbines

As today’s society looks for forms of alternative energy and ways to distance ourselves from fossil fuels, wind power has emerged as a major player in the alternative energy market. Wind turbines function by converting the kinetic energy of wind into mechanical energy to rotate the wind turbine rotor. The rotor connects to an alternator or electrical motor which converts the mechanical energy into electrical energy for storage and consumption.

Maximizing wind turbine efficiency requires turbine placement where steady winds are present and wind turbine alignment with the wind. Alignment with the wind requires use of a wind vane and yaw controller, frequently hydraulically powered and monitored through use of a pressure transducer. As wind speeds approach the survival speed, the speed at which the wind turbine with begin to fail both mechanically and structurally, the blade angle of attack or pitch must be increased in order to stall the blade and prevent the turbine from spinning out of control. Hydraulic control systems use pressure transducers for wind turbine pitch control. The following diagram indicates the basic components of wind turbines.

Pressure Transducer Application to Wind Turbines in Alternative Energy Generation Applications

Pressure Transducers are used for Wind Turbines in Energy and Power Generation in the following Alternative Energy Generation Applications
  • Yaw Hydraulic Cylinder Pressure Measurement and Control
  • Pitch Hydraulic Cylinder Pressure Measurement and Control
Alternative Energy Generation Wind Turbines in Energy and Power Generation applications call for pressure transducer material compatibility with standard hydraulic fluids and with 24-hour-a-day, reliable operation. Pressure transducers are responsible for indicating pressures within the hydraulic cylinders in charge of yaw and pitch control. The WIKA S-10 and WIKA A-10 electronic pressure transducers have been designed for reliable performance in Energy and Power Generation Alternative Energy Generation applications like Wind Turbines.

Pressure Transmitter Selection Considerations

  • High reliability
  • Temperature compensation
  • Vibration resistance
  • Compatibility with hydraulic fluid





If you would like more information about Wika Pressure Transmitters or other Wika Products please contact Forberg Scientific, Inc. customer service.

Toll Free: 1-855-288-5330
Email: mechanicalsales@forberg.com

Tuesday, January 10, 2012

KNF Diaphragm Micropump for Air & Gas

KNF Neuberger’s Type NMP05 diaphragm micropump, designed for sampling air and gases, combines high performance with precision miniature packaging to deliver smooth-running, efficient and reliable operation for a wide range of portable, battery-operated equipment applications. According to the company, the pump:
  • Measures 17mm (width) by 26mm (height) by 31mm (length) and weighs as little as 18 g.
  • Provides an ideal solution for industrial hygiene devices, air samplers and medical analyzers, among many other uses.
  • Features a bolted-on pump head (ensuring excellent gas tightness) and an innovative molded diaphragm with structured surface (enabling maximum end vacuum and extended lifetime).
  • A variety of economical, low-current and robust brush-type DC motors, or premium, longer-life, ironless-core DC and BLDC motors with integrated electronics, featuring low EMI/RFI can be specified.
  • A unique valve system that promotes low aerodynamic loss and optimized flow.
  • Oil-less operation that allows for uncontaminated flow of the pumped medium.
  • Requires no maintenance.
  • Can achieve flow rates to 450 ml/min., continuous vacuum to 500 mbar (15.2 in. Hg) and continuous pressure to 150 mbar (2.2 psig).
  • Can be mounted in any position and can be modified or otherwise customized to satisfy particular application requirements.
Download the KNF Neuberger Model NMP data sheet (click here)

If you would like to receive pricing and availablity on this KNF Neuberger Pump or other KNF Pumps please contact Forberg Scientific Inc. customer service.
Toll Free: 1-855-288-5330
Email: mechanicalsales@forberg.com

Monday, January 9, 2012

How to drain liquids at high pressure

Author: David Connaughton
Blog: Compressed Air The Fourth Utility
Occasionally customers have high pressure compressed air or natural gas lines that need to be filtered to remove oil and water contamination. The problem is, how do you drain out the accumulated liquids? Most automatic drains have a maximum pressure of 150 psig (10 bar), well below the pressure of the filtration vessel. Attaching a valve to the drain could create a dangerous situation. In the diagram above, draining is accomplished by utilizing two valves and a small receiver tank rated at the same pressure as the filter vessel. The receiver could even be a length of pipe as long as its volume is sufficient to hold the amount of liquid that is expected to accumulate between draining. The draining is manual. Initially, the valve closest to the filter vessel is left open to allow liquids to drain into the receiver and must be accomplished by closing the top valve near the filter vessel and opening the bottom valve slowly. It is important to open the bottom valve slowly and carefully because the receiver is at operating pressure. Naturally safety gear like goggles, etc. should be worn.

Friday, January 6, 2012

TURCK Analog I/O Module Increases Application Flexibility With Current and Voltage Signal Combination

TURCK announces the release of its new 4AI4AO-VI analog I/O module, which is compatible with two of the company’s BL distributed I/O products: BL67 and BL Compact system. Featuring four analog inputs for current or voltage and four analog outputs for voltage, the module provides both control and feedback in one convenient package.
The 4AI4AO-VI is designed for use with TURCK’s BL67 modular I/O system and BL Compact system. BL67 combines all of the flexibility of an in-the-cabinet I/O system with modularity, ruggedness and connectorization, while the BL Compact system is a revolutionary on-the-machine solution that obtains and transmits signals via diverse fieldbus protocols, without requiring a protective enclosure. Supporting both M8 and M12 I/O connectors and offering compatibility with a variety of communication protocols, such as Ethernet/IP, DeviceNet, CANopen and Modbus TCP, the BL family provides a high degree of I/O versatility for a wide range of applications.

“The combination of both voltage and current analog signal types in one module provides users with unique I/O flexibility,” said Don Eichman, Product Specialist for TURCK. “The signal duality of the 4AI4AO-VI, which merges control and feedback functions into a single I/O card, and its compatibility with our already versatile BL family allows our customers to increase overall efficiency, reliability and accuracy for any I/O application.”

For enhanced application compatibility, the 4AI4AO-VI is ruggedly constructed to withstand diverse environmental challenges. Operating in temperatures ranging from -40 to 70 degrees Celsius, rated to IP67 and UL listed, the module provides optimal performance in applications that yield extreme temperatures, moisture, shock or vibration—accommodating even the most demanding application requirements.

If you would like to receive more information about this TURCK item or other TURCK products please contact Forberg Scentific Inc. Customer Service.
Toll Free: 1-855-288-5330
Email: processsales@forberg.com


Read the full story at http://www.prweb.com/releases/2012/1/prweb9076434.htm

Thursday, January 5, 2012

Burkert 'Close Control Loop' New Ball Valve, Actuator & Positoner

Burkert UK has expanded its range of products for providing complete process solutions in the food, pharmaceutical, bio-technology, medical and water treatment sectors (et al), with the introduction of a range of 2/2 stainless steel ball valves, available manual or complete with quarter turn single or double acting rotary actuators, and the facility for low cost positioning control via Burkert’s innovative side control positioner.

Supplied in port sizes from ¼” to 4”, threaded, flanged, weld or clamp ended, and suitable for use up to +120 degrees C (and down to -10 degrees C), the 2652 and 2655 ball valves are equipped with stainless steel PTFE seals for use with gaseous and liquid media. They are supplied with quarter turn pneumatic rotary actuators, which have optical position indicators, mechanical feedback and pilot valve connections for NAMUR pilot valves, or Burkert Side Control positioners.

“Our ball valve/actuator/positioner combination provides process users with a compact modular system for fluid icontrol at a very competitive cost with fast delivery.” said Neil Saunders, Sales Manager of Burkert UK. “Ball valves are used extensively in process systems, due to their full flow capabilities and their abilities for use at higher viscosities, temperatures and pressures. With the introduction of the 2652 and 2655 units, we have plugged a gap in our range. Burkert is now a complete systems and solutions provider to process markets, as evidenced by our new Batch control packages and our manufacture of glass fermenters. This means that we are able to supply everything a customer requests on a project - including ball valves: a requirement that we are now well equipped to flexibly satisfy.”

Complementing the 2652/2655 units for more precise valve operation is Burkert’s low cost type 8791 BASIC positioner. Suitable for a wide range of applications, the 8791 BASIC is ideal for use in harsh environments due to its protection class IP65/67. It is also extremely flexible offering the ability to be mounted in various orientations to linear and rotary actuators, according to IEC534-6 and VDI/VDE 3845 (Namur), as well as to Bürkert process valves.

Offering - at a price comparable to analogue devices - the key benefits of simple start-up and easy operation, high accuracy, no internal air consumption and high levels of protection, the 8791 BASIC delivers a reliable and flexible solution across a wide range of applications, in sectors such as Hygienic Processing, Water treatment Steam and Gas Handling, mainly in the control of auxiliary processes -water, steam, air, heating and cooling.

Housed in an aluminium/ stainless steel IP65/67 enclosure, the 8791 BASIC is a compact and robust device offering users the benefits of simple operation, via DIP switch and two keys protected in its housing, and high levels of system resolution (≤ 1%) across its 0/4…20mA operating range.

If you would like more information about Burkert products please contact Forberg Scientific Inc. customer service.
Toll Free: 1-855-288-5330
Email: mechanicalsales@forberg.com

Wednesday, January 4, 2012

LED Display & Programmable Solid State Switches Wika PSD-30 Pressure Transmitter

Wika Instrument Corporation (WIKA) is pleased to announce the PSD-30 with integral LED display and programmable solid state switches is now available. The PSD-30 is designed for use as an intelligent "multi-function" pressure transmitter for many industrial control applications.

The design and outstanding functionality of the PSD-30 received the IF Product Design Award in 2009. The display, with its .35" ( 9 mm) high digits, is designed to be as large as possible and positioned at an angle, so the pressure reading is visible from a distance of at least 10 feet (3 meters). Time-proven and rugged LED technology with 14-segment display is used so alphanumeric messages are much easier to understand compared to typical 7-segment displays.

The PSD-30 is designed for pumps and compressors, machine tools, machine building, hydraulics and pneumatics, and many other industrial applications.

The WIKA PSD-30 special features include:
  • Available with single or dual NPN or PNP solid state switches
  • High visibility, rugged 14-segment red LED display
  • Electronically rotates 180° for top-down installation
  • Independent rotation between the M12x1 electrical connection and the display
  • User-friendly, intuitive 3-key operation
  • Versions with 4-20 mA or 0-10V analog output
  • Programming menu meets VDMA standards for user friendly navigation



Wika Model: PSD-30 Transmitter data sheet (click here)

If you would like more information about the Wika Model: PSD-30 Transmitter please contact Forberg Scientific Customer service.
Toll Free: 1-855-288-5330