Top process technologies - December
10 Dec 2009
Emerson Process Management has introduced the Smart Wireless THUM adapter, which, it says, will free up diagnostics and process data that was previously too costly and complicated to access in wired installations not equipped to receive HART communications. Upgrading devices with the THUM adapter is easy and cost-effective as the device retrofits on most two- or four-wire HART device, without special power requirements, according to Emerson. Using the vendor’s AMS Suite, end users can then tap into in-situ meter verification for magnetic flowmeters and Coriolis meters, enabling significant operational improvements. More details
CC-Link, the open communications protocol for industrial automation, is now available with 1Gbps Industrial Ethernet (IE) at the field/device level, complementing the controller level IE network launched less than a year ago. The development is intended to enable manufacturers to integrate all data into a single information system encompassing commercial and production requirements, from IT systems in the boardroom to field devices on the manufacturing floor. This vertical integration will optimise production performance, against the needs of distribution, commerce and marketing, claims C-C Link. More details
Schneider Electric is launching an energy-saving system architecture that unites its capabilities in power, datacentres, process and machines, building control, and physical security. The product, called EcoStruxure, is designed to enable intelligent energy management by customers seeking to optimise energy efficiencies across multiple domains of their business. The system uses of IP and web services to connect across the vendor’s offerings in the five areas via “an open, flexible technology”. This is said to improve energy visibility and real-time control of any energy usage. Energy waste in all forms – from electricity and water to mechanical and human – can be captured and mitigated, said Schneider.
The Massachusetts Institute of Technology have purchased a Coflore ACR from AM Technology following a three-month evaluation programme. The ACR flow reactor performed well in tests and maintained consistent flow even when large quantities of solids were being formed. The ACR is a multi stage flow reactor which uses seal free dynamic mixing. It has been developed to handle difficult process conditions such as slurries, immiscible liquids and gas liquid mixtures at low throughputs. It is designed to deliver high mixing efficiency and good plug flow and low pressure drop independently of residence time. Its modular design allows it to be adapted for a wide range of reaction types.
Emerson Process Management has applied human-centered design (HCD) techniques in developing its new Delta V S-series platform. The ease-of-use concept features across a range of promising new technologies in the v11 release, including “I/O on Demand’ and ”Electronic Marshalling’, which are designed to reduce customer project complexity, eliminate needless work, and speed system commissioning. Read PE article.
ABB has launched its next generation Relion range of protection and control products for power system applications from basic distribution to high-end transmission. The products are said to be the first to fully implement the IEC 61850 standard, which is designed to ensure interoperability and seamless communication with all compliant intelligent electronic devices (IEDs), tools and systems at any voltage. More details
ARI-Armaturen claims its new STEVI AS Y-pattern process valve delivers “unbeatable power” and tight shut-off for up to 1,000,000 strokes. Its self-adjusting stem sealing system, comprising a spring-loaded PTFE-V-ring unit and a burnished stem with double bearing, is said to ensure a tight seal on closing with zero leakage. Water hammer is also reduced to a minimum due to the damped closing function. A flow-optimised Y-pattern body design facilitates large strokes and excellent flow capacities, and a 31% energy saving.
Operators can keep their protective gloves on when operating HMI stations for CCTV systems in hazardous areas, provided they run R. STAHL’s ISview video software, according to the company. Even well-padded fingers, it claims, can accurately hit the large touch buttons on the screen for direct access to cameras. More details
Schneider Electric has launched “the UK’s first totally standalone biometric switch” dedicated to access control for industrial process or building applications. The Harmony Biometric switch has been designed to prevent unauthorised persons from accessing certain areas or controls that may cause them or the running process a danger. Instead of a traditional key that can be lost and used by unauthorised staff, or passwords which are often forgotten, the switch can only be operated by a user with their thumb or finger print.
Meeting the chemicals industry’s requirements for drying equipment is the target for Hosokawa Micron Ltd with the introduction of a 22,000 litre capacity Vrieco Nauta Vacuum Dryer. Designed for high-volume drying of polymers, chemically produced toners, pigments and agrochemicals the unit dries at low temperatures and deep vacuum levels to achieve single batch drying with product homogeneity and quality control combined with cost reduction. It can be used for drying of heat sensitive materials and is able to handle slurries, pastes and powders. The dryer employs a cantilever screw that has no support at the bottom of the vessel; a design feature used in mixers and dryers for pharmaceutical applications.
Gefran’s new GF_LOOPER (Gefran Multiloop Controller)is claimed to provide sophisticated multi-loop process control for 8- or 16-zoneconfigurations in a compact and easy-to-use package. Aimed at precise temperature control in multi-zone furnaces, thermoformers, dryers, small extruders and “hot runner” injection press applications, the controller includes intuitive graphics software for straightforward configuration and monitoring across the total multi-loop process.
