Proper Tubing Preparation

Tube end preparation is essential in assuring leak-free systems. Some important points to consider are:

• Handling Tubing
• Cutting Tube End with either a tube cutter or hacksaw
• Deburring the tube end
• Cleaning the tube end

Handling Tubing

After tubing has been properly selected and ordered, careful handling is important.

From the receiving dock to point of installation, special attention is necessary to prevent scratching and burring the O.D. of the tubing. This is especially important for gas service. Low-density gases such as helium and argon cannot be sealed with damaged tubing.

Make certain not to drag tubing across any surfaces such as truck beds, shelves, or storage racks, the floor and (or) ground of any plant/construction site.This is important for tubing of all materials, particularly for copper and aluminum. Besides scratching, improper handling can create out-of-round tubing. Out-of-round tubing will not fit the I.D. of the ferrule(s) or the body bore properly and will cause leakage.

Cutting the Tube End

To insure a good joint, tube must be cut off square. This can be accomplished with either a tube cutter or hacksaw.

Figure 4 Enlarged section of tube showing differences in tubing cut with a tube cutter (a) and a hacksaw (b).

Tubing Cutters are more commonly utilized on softer tubing such as copper, aluminum or even “soft” steel tubing. If a tube cutter is utilized with stainless steel tubing, remember that a special cutting wheel, designed for use with stainless steel tubing should be employed. The use of dull or improper cutting wheels can work harden the S.S. tubing near the cut area. This CAN adversely affect the fittings sealing ability.

Cutting with a Hacksaw - When using a hacksaw to cut off tubing, it is essential to use a guide to assure square cutoffs. We recommend Parker's Tru-Kut vise Model #710439. (See below) Further, to minimize the residual burrs, a hacksaw blade of 32 teeth per inch minimum is suggested.

Deburring the Tube End

The burrs formed by either the tube cutter or hacksaw must be removed prior to assembly to prevent those burrs from eventually damaging the system. O.D. burrs can prevent tubing from seating properly in a fitting body. I.D. burrs can restrict flow, as well as possibly break loose and damage fine filtration elements.
Note: Do not over deburr the O.D. of tubing.

You may deburr the tubing with your choice of file(s), or utilize Parker’s IN-EX De-Burring tool Model #226. This tool can be used to deburr both the I.D. & O.D. of tubing sizes 1/8” thru 1-1/2”.

 

 

Cleaning the Tube End

After you deburr the tubing, it is essential to remove burrs from the tubing line. This can be accomplished by:

1. Flushing with solvent or low pressure compressed air.
2. Swab with lint-free cloth.

Again, this should prevent entrapping one of these small burrs down-stream where it might do some system damage.

If you would like more information about Parker Tube Fitting Tools or other Parker Products please contact Forberg Scienfitic customer service.
Toll Free: 855-288-5330
Email: mechanicalsales@forberg.com

Why a Pressure Gauge is Important to Everyday Operations?

A pressure gauge is a common component in operations from various industries across the world. But not every gauge is created equally or made for every situation. WIKA Instrument Corporation has been on the forefront of innovation and quality for pressure gauges and pressure instruments for over 60 years, making us the pressure gauge expert for diverse industries and applications.

Gauges with bourdon tubes are the most common pressure measuring devices used today. They combine a high grade of measuring technology, simple operation, ruggedness and flexibility with the advantages of industrial and cost-effective production. Needing no external power supply, bourdon tube gauges are the best choice for most applications.

Pressure gauges are crucial components of most processing systems. In these environments, a pressure gauge needs to be reliable, accurate and easy to read to help prevent failure in everyday operations. Therefore, how a gauge is constructed and tested is extremely important for reliability, safety and peace-of-mind. After all, failures can cost time, money and productivity loss.

Applications for gauges with a bourdon tube range from highly automated chemical processes, such as, refineries and petrochemical processing, to hydraulic and pneumatic installations. These types of gauges can also be found at all critical process monitoring and safety points in today’s energy industries, from exploration wells and petrochemical plants, to power stations and wastewater operations.

If you would like to receive pricing and availability on Wika Pressure Gauges or other Wika Products please visit our website www.forberg.com or contact Forberg Scientific customer service.
Toll Free: 855-288-5330
Email: mechanicalsales@forberg.com

How to Select a UE Pressure Switch

United Electric Controls (UE), a market leader in pressure switching technologies with hundreds of permutations for diverse applications in virtually every industry has spawned unintended consequences for users - too many models to choose from. The upshot of this is a simple reliable switch is most likely available for your application. All you need to do is follow the recommendations below and have UE select the ideal switch for your needs.

How to Select a Pressure Switch

Pressure switches are widely used by many industries and within many applications. The basic function of a pressure switch is to detect a pressure change and convert it into an electrical signal function – typically on/off or off/on. Pressure switches may be of electro-mechanical or electronic/solid-state design; and while each may have its advantages, arriving at the correct pressure switch for your application is the same.

Set point & deadband

Application set point is the desired value reached at rising or falling pressure at which the micro-switch changes electrical states. Depending upon the pressure switch function, the micro-switch could be wired to open or close when set point is achieved thereby triggering an event such as an alarm, equipment shutdown, or powering up secondary equipment. Ideally the set point should fall into the mid 50% of the pressure switch range for best performance including repeatability and long life. On an electro-mechanical pressure switch, set point may be adjusted internally or externally either through blind adjustment or reference dial. An electronic pressure switch would have internal or external adjustment via a key pad and digital display.

Deadband is the on-off differential required to reset the micro-switch. This value may be fixed or adjustable with an electro-mechanical switch and may be up to 100% adjustable on an electronic switch. Deadband may be an important factor to consider depending upon the application requirements.

System pressure

Knowing your normal and maximum system pressures will help in selecting a pressure switch with appropriate minimum and maximum operating parameters. Once your set point is established, other factors to consider are vacuum and/or surge pressure that could affect switch operation. This would involve maximum working pressure, over range pressure, and proof pressure specifications of a pressure switch. The relationship between set point and system pressure has a direct effect on switch performance and life.

Electrical considerations

Micro-switches are available in a variety of configurations. The most common for electro-mechanical pressure switches is 15A, 480VAC SPDT (single pole, double throw). The advantage of a SPDT micro-switch is that it offers wiring flexibility to either open or close on pressure change. Other micro-switches available include 1A with gold contacts, useful when working with a PLC, or at the upper end, 30A when switching certain high voltage heaters or motors. Adjustable micro-switches help with deadband adjustment. A DPDT (double pole, double throw) micro-switch would provide two simultaneous functions off of one micro-switch. If a low-high limit alarm and shutdown were required, there are pressure switches that include two SPDT micro-switches that are independently settable.

An electronic pressure switch would use solid-state relays to change states. Like an electro-mechanical switch, the electronic switch can be programmed to open or close on rising or falling pressure. There are different capacities for switching voltage and current depending upon the application requirements.

Process media and wetted parts

The pressure connection and sensor are known as wetted parts since they come into direct contact with the process media. Sensor material is either elastomer (i.e. Buna-N, Teflon®) or metallic (i.e. Brass, Stainless Steel) with metallic or composite pressure connections. The process media must be compatible with the wetted parts material. Process media temperature should also be considered as each of the different wetted materials would have differing operating properties. 

Pressure switch mounting

If the unit is to be installed directly onto the process, there are many methods of installation. Typically a 1/8”, 1/4”, or 1/2” NPT (national pipe thread taper) connection is used with a mating fitting to secure the pressure switch to the process. There are also straight threaded (SAE, BSPT) connections, flush mount connections, and sanitary connections. The pressure switch may be mounted directly in the process line using the threaded connection, a manifold, or flange; or the enclosure could be bolted to a mounting plate or other plane to secure it. If heavy vibration is present, you may choose to use a remote diaphragm seal with the pressure switch. The diaphragm seal mates with the process connection while the pressure switch enclosure is mounted securely away from the vibration.

Process environment

It is important to know what type of environment the pressure switch would be installed in – hazardous or ordinary location; indoors or outdoors; exposed to salt air; inside a control panel; in high ambient temperature. These are just some of the factors to consider so the right enclosure type is chosen. Enclosure types come in many shapes, sizes, and materials. They also conform to various industry and third-party approval standards. Electronic switches can be used to replace electro-mechanical switches when SIL is needed for safety applications. There are also electro-mechanical pressure switches without enclosures; typically used in OEM, non-hazardous locations where the environment is benign.
With careful consideration of all the factors listed above, choosing a pressure switch is a snap.

Visit United Electric Controls (UE) Product Selector to find your pressure switch.

If you would like more information like pricing and availablity about United Electric Controls (UE) Pressure Switches or other UE products please contact Forberg Scientific customer service.
Toll Free: 855-288-5330
Email: mechanicalsales@forberg.com

Different Types of Pressure Gauges

A commercial pressure gauge is perfect for utility, general-purpose applications typically found in HVAC, refrigeration, ventilation and food and beverage industries as well as for OEM and end user applications. WIKA manufacturers a line of commercial pressure gauges suited for all your needs.
Industrial pressure gauges are stainless steel gauges designed for the oil and gas, alternative fuels, chemical manufacturing, petrochemical and mobile hydraulics industries. An industrial pressure gauge is suitable for media that will not obstruct the pressure system. Industrial pressure gauges, WIKA’s most extensive product line, are designed to meet all your pressure measurement needs.

Process pressure gauges protect against extreme environments, like in oil, gas and petrochemical industries, which face system vibration, pulsation, pressure spikes and corrosion. WIKA manufacturers a complete line of process pressure gauges for all your processing, oil and gas and chemical applications.

Low pressure gauges are suitable for corrosive environments and gaseous or liquid media that will not obstruct the pressure system. WIKA’s low pressure gauges are suitable for chemical, petrochemical, plant construction, pneumatic systems and cleanrooms.

Sealgauges are a pressure gauge combined with a diaphragm seal isolator and are designed to eliminate potential leak paths. WIKA’s Sealgauges are suitable for sanitary, chemical, petrochemical, pharmaceutical and process industries.

High precision test gauges are designed for calibration and testing laboratories. These highly accurate test gauges are suitable for corrosive and industrial applications. WIKA’s high precision test gauges are intended for pressure monitoring panels, gaseous or liquid media that will not obstruct the pressure system or attack copper alloy parts and process industry applications.

Differential gauges and duplex pressure gauges are designed for the oil and gas, alternative fuels, chemical, HVAC, refrigeration and air handling industries. Differential pressure and duplex pressure gauges are for measuring two applied pressures; high and low pressure and static process pressures. WIKA’s differential and duplex gauges are suitable for corrosive environments with liquid or gaseous media, cryogenic gases and when separation of media is required.

Absolute pressure gauges measure absolute pressure without the effect of barometric pressure variation and are used when monitoring condensation pressures and vapor pressures of liquids. WIKA’s absolute pressure gauges are suitable industries and applications with corrosive environments and gaseous and liquid media.

If you would like to receive pricing and availability on Wika Pressure Gauges or other Wika Products please visit our website www.forberg.com or contact Forberg Scientific customer service.
Toll Free: 855-288-5330
Email: mechanicalsales@forberg.com

Can I use PVC for my Compressed Air System?

Author: David Connaughton

In a word - NO - Let me repeat just in case you didn't hear - NO!!

PVC is easy to use and connect, seal and is lightweight so why not use it for compressed air? First OSHA does not allow it. In a report that they posted, they warn that PVC pipe can explode and send shrapnel in all directions. In their report: "a section of PVC pipe being used for compressed air exploded 27 feet above a warehouse floor. A fragment of the pipe flew 60 feet and embedded itself in a roll of paper. Fortunately, nobody was in the area at the time."

PVC is subject to creep and fatigue over time. Also compressed air pipes can be subject to vibration. The compressible nature of compressed air means that when a rupture occurs, it occurs catastrophically. Compare that to a breach in a water line. Water is non-compressible. Once a rupture occurs all the pressure is quickly dissipated and an explosive tear is avoided.

Note that there are some forms of ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) that are safe for use in compressed air systems. Please check with the manufacturer of the pipe to confirm that it is safe for use in your particular application.

Parker Fitting Assembly & Remake Instructions

1. Parker instrument tube fittings are sold completely assembled and ready for immediate use. Simply insert the tube as illustrated until it bottoms in the fitting body. (If the fitting is disassembled, note that the small tapered end of the ferrule(s) go into the fitting body.)

2. Tighten nut finger tight. Then tighten nut with wrench an additional 3/4 or 1-1/4 turns indicated at left. Hold Parker fitting body with a second wrench to prevent body from turning. It is helpful to mark the nut to facilitate counting the number of turns.

For maximum number of remakes, mark the Parker fitting and nut before disassembly. Before retightening, make sure the assembly has been inserted into the fitting until the ferrule seats in the fitting. Retighten the nut by hand. Rotate the nut with a wrench to the original position as indicated by the previous marks lining up. (A noticeable increase in mechanical resistance will be felt indicating the ferrule is being re-sprung into sealing position.)

Only after several remakes will it become necessary to advance the nut slightly past the original position. This advance (indicated by B) need only be 10° - 20° (less than 1/3 of a hex flat).

Parker A-Lok/CPI® Tube Fitting part numbers use symbols to identify the size, style, and material. Tube and pipe thread sizes begin with a number indicating their size in sixteenths of an inch. For example, 4=4/16” or 1/4”; 16=16/16” or 1".

NOTE: Lubrication on the nut is REQUIRED for proper assemblyon all LARGER size fittings in both inch and metric sizes.  This requirement applies to:

• inch sizes of 20 and higher
• metric sizes of 25 and higher

Gaugeability Instructions*

1. From “finger tight” position, wrench 1-1/4 turns for 1/4" to 1" size fittings (6mm to 25mm) (1/16", 1/8", 3/16", 2mm, 3mm and 4mm size tube fittings only wrench 3/4 turn from finger tight position). Hold fitting body hex with second wrench to prevent body from turning as you tighten. It is a good idea to mark the nut (scribe or ink) to help you count the turns.

2. Now select the proper size inspection gauge and try to place it, as shown, between the nut and the body hex. If gauge DOES NOT FIT AT ANY POINT between them, you have correctly tightened the nut. If you can slip the gauge into the space, the fitting is not properly made up, and you must repeat the assembly procedure.

*For initial make up only.



If you would like more information about Parker A-lok/ CPI Instrumentation Tube Fittings or other Parker Products please contact Forberg Scientific Inc Customer Service.
Toll Free: 855-288-5330
Email: mechanicalsales@forberg.com

Cost-Effective Solution for Industrial Instrumentation Applications

Parker’s New Carbon Steel Hand Valves and Manifolds Offer a Cost-Effective Solution for Industrial Instrumentation Applications

 Parker Hannifin Corporation is now offering hand valves and two-, three- and five-valve manifolds in carbon steel, a more economical material than stainless steel. Developed by Parker's Instrumentation Products Division (IPD), the new series provides an ideal solution for natural gas transmission lines, as well as other chemical/petrochemical and power industrial instrumentation applications that don't require the extreme performance of stainless steel.

The new carbon steel hand valves and manifolds are pressure-rated up to 6,000 psig (414 bar) to provide system flexibility when selecting process valves for a variety of applications. They are designed to work with Parker's industry-leading A-LOK® and CPI™ fittings, as well as other manufacturers' products. An external adjustable gland allows for full adjustment of the stem packing without removal of the valve from the system. Handles are color-coded to quickly and easily identify valve functions – including test/drain, equalize, and isolate – thereby avoiding errors and increasing safety.

"Our new carbon steel hand valves and manifolds meet a clear customer need by providing a cost-effective option for applications that don't demand the extreme performance of steel," commented Kevin Burke, Parker IPD Marketing Manager. "Additionally, local assembly and testing in Texas mean customers can count on receiving excellent customer service and product availability."

Catalogs

Catalog 4190-HV (hand valves)

Catalog 4190-PM (two-valve manifolds)

Catalog 4190-FM (three- and five-valve manifolds)

For more information regarding Parker's new carbon steel hand valves and manifolds or other Parker Instrumentation products please contact Forberg Scientific customer service. 

Toll Free: 855-288-5330

Email: mechanicalsales@forberg.com

Inductive Proximity Sensor features IP68/69K rating

TURCK announces a new long-range inductive proximity sensor using FDA rated materials for wash down applications. The Q42-available in a top-facing model and front-facing model-is an addition to the uprox+ family of factor one sensors that require no correction factor to detect any metal type. The Q42 is designed to deliver optimal performance in applications that require frequent cleaning with chemicals found in food and beverage applications or where the sensor is exposed to wet environments, such as car washes or outdoor applications.

The Q42 features an improved design with a durable stainless steel connector and PA12 thermoplastic housing that delivers resistance to chemicals and caustic cleaning agents, as well as shock from impact. Additionally, the upgraded housing materials are food-safe and meet FDA Regulation 21CFR 177, 1500(9) for the U.S. and FDA/EGVO 1935/2004 for the E.U. The Q42 features integrated predamping that gives the designer flexibility to partially recess the sensor into their design.

"Although many of our existing sensors in the uprox+ family are inherently rated IP68, they are not optimally suited for high-pressure or extended exposure washdown applications," said John Murphy, Product Manager for TURCK. "The new Q42 allows our customers to achieve accurate sensing results, while providing peak performance and flexibility for applications that present even the harshest of conditions."

The existing uprox+ washdown family is comprised of 12, 18 and 30mm diameter barrels with sensing ranges between 4 and 30mm. The Q42 offers a sensing range of 50mm to all types of metals. This not only eliminates the need to change the position of the sensors for different metal applications, but also reduces the number of sensor types needed for plant operations. In addition to an extended sensing distance, the Q42 delivers reliable operation in temperatures ranging from -40 to 100 degrees Celsius.

If you would like more information about TURCK proximity sensors or other TURCK products please contact Forberg Scientific customer service.
Phone: 248-288-5990
Email: processsales@forberg.com

GPI PVDF Flowmeters for Aggressive Chemicals

Looking for a turbine flowmeter that can handle aggressive chemicals with no metal parts? Use PVDF flowmeters to measure bleach, ferric chloride, phenol, sulfuric acid or phosphoric acid. The lithium battery powered electronic display G2 PVDF flowmeters are calibrated to read in gallons and liters per minute with two totals in which case one is resettable and gives you a cumulative flow total. These PVDF chemical flowmeters come in 1/2 inch, and 1 inch models. <><>

Flowmeters can measure the following liquids: Bleach Caustic soda Phosphoric acid Ferric chloride

Wetted Materials: Housing: PVDF Bearings: Ceramic - 98% Alumina Shaft: Ceramic - 98% Alumina Rotor: PVDF Rings: Viton

Features and Benefits: Precision accuracy in a lightweight and durable meter.Installs easily. Available with Local Display or Remote Transmitter. Local Display Computer features: 2 Totals (1 Resettable, 1 Cumulative); Factory Calibration in gallons and liters; 2 User Calibrations and Flowrate. Accessories easily upgrade meter.One field replaceable internal part making maintenance easy. GPI G2 Series PVDF datasheet If you would like more information about GPI G2 PVDF Flowmeters or other GPI Flowmeter Products please contact Forberg Scientific Customer Service. Phone: 248-288-5990 Email: processsales@forberg.com