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Measurement, Control and Automation Resources throughout the World
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News
Date of last update as at the top of the list (d/m/yy).
Press releases from your company may be sent to any of the addresses shown on our Contacts Page.
See Archive Page for earlier news.
31/8/2005
Data collector for multiple applications suits all users - The new Entek Enpac 2500 portable condition monitoring data collector and analyser from Rockwell Automation provides users with a cost-effective condition monitoring tool for the analysis of rotating equipment - giving them the potential to identify and correct problems before they impact on production and safety. Based on the Windows CE operating system, this unit combines lightweight, easy-to-use features with scalable functionality for use in a range of industries including power generation, pulp and paper, metals, water & wastewater, food & beverage, automotive, pharmaceutical, semiconductor and petrochemical.
Material tester helps potato crisp production and packaging - The 1 kN LFPlus single column universal testing machine from Lloyd Instruments can be used to test a wide range of properties of packets for potato crisps to optimise production processes and to ensure that the product is kept in perfect condition for the consumer. Burst strength, opening strength, seam strength, tear and peel are all parameters that can be measured using the LFPlus. The instrument can also be used to measure the coefficient of friction on the plastic film used for the crisp packet. (For our American readers chips are called crisps on the European side of the Atlantic and French Fries are called chips!)
New optical sorter for glass and plastics recycling - Spektrum, the new high-resolution optical colour sorter from S+S Inspection can separate up to 90% of glass from ceramic, stone and porcelain waste and more than 98% off-colour contaminants from plastic streams such as coloured PET contamination from recycled PVC and all types of granular or shredded plastics with a grain size down to below 5mm.
Bio-spectrophotometer launched - Hitachi High-Technologies has introduced the U-0080D Bio-spectrophotometer. This versatile new diode array instrument has a comprehensive DNA/RNA application program built in, but can also be used as a standard spectrophotometer. Sample volumes as small as 1 microL can be quantitatively analysed to avoid wastage of valuable sample material.
Scanning atom probe planned - Oxford nanoScience, leaders in the manufacture of the 3 Dimensional Atom Probe (3DAP), are to develop the Scanning Atom Probe as part of a British Department of Trade & Industry (DTI)-funded initiative. The Scanning Atom Probe will be a next-generation instrument, designed to enable the routine testing of thin magnetic layered films both on wafer and micro-tip samples. The new instrument will be used to correlate microstructural properties of the thin films with magnetic and transport device-level performance.
Deliver your protocol from Ethernet to a serial device - SixNet has enhanced its line of Industrial Ethernet Gateways. The EtherTRAK ET-GT-485-1 and ET-GT-232-1 are more capable than before and now support other protocols in addition to SixNet, Modbus ASCII, and Modbus RTU. These products are ideal for connecting one or more RS232 and RS485 slave devices to Ethernet. This new capability allows users to pass one user-selected protocol from Ethernet to one or multiple slave devices connected to the serial port and pass the response to these messages back to the master. With this feature, the user can be assured that the message content will not be altered in any manner. The entire contents within the IP packet will be delivered as is. Any reply from the slave device that arrives immediately after the completion of the transmission out of the serial port will be sent back to the sending Ethernet station (master device.)
New range of inductive conductivity sensors - ProMinent Fluid Controls has launched a new range of inductive conductivity for the measurement of electrolytic conductivity in heavily soiled and/or aggressive fluids. The new ICT 1 and ICT 2 sensors operate over a wide measurement range and are particularly well suited to the measurement of high conductivity levels since there is no electrode polarisation.
Joint developement agreement - Invensys Controls and Cratlon Ltd have announced a joint development agreement, to embed Invensys' wireless software stack and application protocols into Cratlon's single-chip wireless sensor family. Temperature-to-RF and humidity-to-RF sensor chips will be sampled in 2006, with light sensors and certain flammable gas sensors following in 2007.
A live link to Cratlon's 802.15.4 wireless sensor network, showing real-time operation in a building monitoring and control application.
Perfect Vertical - Theta alignment - Aerotech's WaferMax series, direct-drive positioning stages, available in vertical (Z) and rotary (theta) versions, combine high-throughput production performance with outstanding precision in a compact and low-height design to meet the rigorous demands of rotary alignment and focus related applications, such as semiconductor inspection systems and laser machining.
Expertise for drive controllers - Pilz GmbH Chr. Mayr GmbH have agreed to transfer the Mayr Systems division to Pilz, with effect from 1 August 2005. With the integration of Mayr Systems, Pilz is rigorously pursuing its strategy of providing complete automation solutions consisting of sensor, control and actuator technology. In this context, the issue of motion control becomes highly significant.
Diverse local conditions demand innovative responses from suppliers in EMEA packaged wastewater treatment plant markets - The markets for packaged wastewater treatment plants present considerable diversity in terms of applications, end-users and demand base across Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA). While offering the opportunity for international expansion and product diversification, this situation has also proven to be challenging, compelling suppliers to devise innovative responses. Competitive success will depend on an in-depth understanding of both local-specific requirements, as well as end-user needs.
"Despite attractive revenues and stable demand, a high level of diversity and fragmentation along with increasing price pressures is creating pressures within the market for packaged wastewater treatment plants," says Frost & Sullivan Industry Analyst Suchitra Padmanabhan.
Power direction monitoring gives more generator protection - A new type of monitoring relay from Carlo Gavazzi provides further protection for generators, by adding current flow measurement to conventional active monitoring. By ensuring that current flow is within set limits, this not only averts overloads, but also prevents generators from acting as motors in highly overloaded three-phase systems. New DWB03 and PWB03 are precise TRMS active power monitoring relays for three-phase balanced systems. They can be used to monitor the actual load of asynchronous motors and other symmetrical loads, as well as to check that power is flowing in the correct direction. Upper and lower limits are adjustable separately and can be set between -100 and +100 percent of nominal power.
Low-profile socket socket simplifies FPGA prototyping in space-constrained applications - QuickLogic Europe has announced the availability of HiLo device mounting sockets for its FPGA devices. Interconnect Systems' HiLo mounting technology allows designers to easily prototype space-constrained designs using footprint-compatible sockets.
Motion control libraries and drives for PLC applications - TML_LIB_S7 and TML_LIB_CJ1 are the new Motion Control Libraries which embed Technosoft Drive / Motor Intelligence on a PLC environment. The TML Motion Libraries for PLC are a collection of high-level functions and function blocks allowing the control, from a PLC, of the Technosoft intelligent drives and motors based on MotionChip technology. The motion control function blocks are developed in accordance with the PLCopen standard and represent the ideal tool for a quick implementation on PLCs of motion control applications with Technosoft products.
Ensure that your instruments and equipmentare currently maintained and calibrated - Autoscribe's Instrument Calibration and Management System (ICMS) enables companies to readily and cost effectively meet their regulatory compliance requirements eg FDA, ISO 9000 and ISO 17025. The latest version of Autoscribe's ICMS includes electrical safety checking in addition to calibration and maintenance. Instrument systems (e.g. HPLCs) can be linked to components (e.g. detector, pump, etc) which can be individually managed.
Autoscribe Limited is a world leader in the development and supply of software solutions for LIMS (Laboratory Information Management Systems) and the scientific laboratory and business markets.
Analogue self-calibrating speed sensor features integrated tracking capacitor - The new ATS616LSG from Allegro MicroSystems Europe is an analogue self-calibrating speed sensor designed for non-TPOS (true power on state) automotive camshaft applications. The new sensor features improved immunity to electromagnetic interference and electrostatic discharge effects and does not require an external switching capacitor. The ATS616LSG is housed in Allegro's compact integrated GTS package, while maintaining the key specifications of the ATS612LSB, like airgap range and high timing accuracy.
Enabling any plant to use FF strengths for online asset management and control - Emerson Process Management has announced the latest release of the Rosemount 3420 Fieldbus Interface Module (FIM). Designed for users in facilities without fieldbus I/O, the Rosemount FIM enables installation of Foundation fieldbus devices with any host system. This capability extends the proven benefits of PlantWeb digital architecture to existing plants. The latest release provides access to predictive diagnostic information from the fieldbus devices, enabling asset management and performance optimisation within the AMS Suite: Intelligent Device Manager software. For example, users are able to add powerful AMS SNAP-ON applications like AMS ValveLink for continuous monitoring of digital valve health, allowing predictive maintenance and avoidance of abnormal situations. The FIM also enables control-in-the-field using peer-to-peer communications between fieldbus devices.
High performance dosing pump packages announced - ProMinent Fluid Controls can now offer its high performance Orlita dosing pumps mounted as ATEX-compliant complete dosing packages. This greatly aids servicing and maintenance, since offshore dosing packages, which are mounted on skids can simply be exchanged and returned to the mainland for servicing. The Orlita DR pump has a unique valveless design featuring a rotary piston which itself opens and closes the inlet and outlet lines so no valves are required. The pumping mechanism also gives extremely precise dosing capabilities with an accuracy of + 0.5%. The DR Series of pumps can pump fluids of viscosity up to 106 mPas over a wide temperature and pressure range.
Details may be found on Stand No. 1106 at the Offshore Europe exhibition in Scotland, 6-9 2005.
New Air Calibrations for In Line Flow Meters - Blue-White's F-400 Series Flowmeters have new calibration options. Air Flow Calibrations of: 0.75 to 7.5 SCFM /1-10 M3/HR; 0.2 - 2.0 SCFM/.4-3.2 M3/HR; 1 - 12 SCFM/ 220 M3/HR; 2 - 20 SCFM/4-34 M3/HR; are now offered on units with 3/8" Female NPT, and 1/2" Female NPT pipe connections (F-400N Series). Air Flow Calibrations of: 4 - 45 SCFM/8-80 M3/HR; 5 - 75 SCFM/10-125 M3/HR; 10-80 SCFM / 20 - 140 M3/HR are now offered on units with 3/4" Female NPT and 1" Female NPT pipe connections (F-410N Series).
Blue-White advertises on the Read-out Instrumentation Signpost
Worried about security? - Prosecuritytalk, from the Pro-Talk stable, covers all aspects of the growing area of security. Edited by Jonathan Newell this will publish news in this field from Autumn 2005.
Our Cyber Security Page has been on line since June 2003
Medical Tensile Testing Of Rubber Loops - Lloyd Instruments can offer a versatile system for tensile testing of circular rubber products, featuring a special motorised ring grip in conjunction with a universal materials testing system such as the LRXPlus. This powerful combination can be used to test O-rings, and other rubber products such as condoms and surgical/medical gloves.
Spectrometers to help in new EU waste directives - The Z-2000 series of flame, furnace and tandem atomic absorption spectrophotometers from Hitachi High-Technologies is able to accurately determine low concentrations of toxic elements such as cadmium, mercury, lead and hexavalent chromium. This is of increasing importance with the implementation (in Europe on August 13 2005) of the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (WEEE) and the planned implementation of the Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) on July 1, 2006.
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Company recognised as best in delivering consistent value to customers - Emerson Process Management has been named the 2005 'Process Control & Industrial Automation Company of the Year' by Frost & Sullivan. For the second consecutive year, Emerson is being recognised for visionary leadership in the world market and for providing exceptional technologies and services that enable customers to improve overall efficiency. Emerson was presented with the award by Frost & Sullivan at its third annual Excellence in Industrial Technologies Awards Banquet in May.
Frost & Sullivan presents the award each year to the company that has demonstrated excellence in all operations, including business development, competitive strategy, and leadership within its industry. The award recognises the recipient's outstanding management, consistent growth, exceptional customer service, and positive social and economic impact on local and national communities and customers.
Robust Ethernet connector for industrial environments - Han-Max from Harting is a robust Ethernet connector for use in harsh
industrial environments. Conforming to ODVA (Open Device Vendors Association) standards and fulfilling the requirements of Category 5e, the Han-Max plug and jack are
available as unshielded or shielded twisted-pair versions.
Have you missed that seminar? - The ISA is getting its fair share of criticism these days constructively from personalities like Walt Boyes and Jim Pinto and then there are the others who criticise destructively. Here is a good idea from their Training Institute. If you've ever missed one of the ISA web seminars in a series, or thought "Gee, so-and-so would really benefit from this seminar", Here is their answer.
They have made recordings of each live web seminar, as it was presented and now makes them available for anyone who couldn't attend the live date.
These can be accessed in two ways: You can access them two ways:-
Industry's First Products for Laptop Control of PXI/CompactPCI - Engineers can now directly control a PXI/CompactPCI system from a laptop computer using new National Instruments ExpressCard MXI and PCMCIA CardBus interfaces. This new capability is ideal for portable and mobile applications, such as in-vehicle data logging, machine condition monitoring and field tests including RF spectral monitoring, in a variety of industries including automotive and military/aerospace.
Time-saving, compact and economical bubble trap prevents disruption to fluid flow - The new smaller, redesigned inert Bubble Trap from Omnifit/Bio-Chem Valve attaches to laboratory tubing to provide an effective, time-saving and cost-efficient method for removing gas bubbles that interfere with flow and produce errors or cause columns to run dry. The fully mechanical unit requires no user interaction apart from replacing the membrane, a quick and easy operation. This makes it ideal for use in flow analysis systems, as a guard in liquid chromatography, for enzyme reactors and for flow-through biosensors.
A new and extensive industrial PC platform concept - The slim profile F1, designed primarily to meet the needs of the HMI market, introduces the first in a wide range of PC platforms and its debut also marks Nematron's first new product release since it underwent restructuring through 2004 - 2005. The Panel PC format F1 features low power Celeron M and Pentium M technology with a 15" display module. Formula's slim profile veils the multiple variants and enormous drive capacity brought about through the innovative drive carrier design. When it comes to options Formula's drive carrier offers the user maximum flexibility - a robust 2.5" Hard Drive with a minimum of 40GB, a floppy drive, a slim line CDRW/DVD, plus a second 2.5" Hard Drive can be supported simultaneously.
Certification available electronically - ISA has announced that beginning in 2006, the three ISA certification exams
Certified Automation Professional (CAP)
Certifed Control Systems Technician (CCST)
Certified Industrial Maintenance Mechanic (CIMM)
will be offered electronically in test sites around the world.
This added flexibility and accessibility will make the certification process much faster and easier. However, it does involve a change in testing policy to ensure that exam security is maintained: all exams will be closed book as of 1 January 2006.
Small footprint, rotary paddle bin level indicator for bulk solids applications - ASI Instruments, a leading manufacturer of state-of-the-art instrumentation for level detection and measurement of dry bulk solids, today announced RotaryPoint, a new low-cost rotary paddle bin level indicator. RotaryPoint is a rugged, small footprint device whose heavy-duty motor gearing provides up to twice the life expectancy of other paddle indicators. Designed for measuring the level of dry bulk solids in hoppers, silos, bins, and tanks, the system handles materials with densities of 10 lbs/ft3 or more, including grains, plastic pellets, even high density aggregates like limestone and rocks.
6-axis force sensor with optical sensing technology - As part of its continuing growth, StrainSense has added a six-axis force sensor to its product portfolio. This sensor's optical sensing technology allows high performance-to-cost ratio to be achieved for test, robotics and wind tunnel applications.
Name change reflects business - FCX has changed its name to Truflo International plc following the recent sale of the Group's European and Australasian distribution businesses to Transmark International. "Truflo is a name which has a strong tradition and fine reputation throughout the world wide valve industry," explained Chief Executive John Perkins. "It was the obvious choice as the brand to take the focused manufacturing group forward."
Bench mounted digital instruments - Eurolec Instrumentation are launching a range of bench mounted digital instruments to complement their existing ranges. The BM Series will operate via mains or 9V battery and will include models to measure temperature (thermocouple and platinum sensors) in both single channel and six input options, a combined %RH and temperature model and a range of pressure instruments with scaling options ranging from 10 inches of water to 150 psi. The pressure and RH models will include an analogue output of 100 _V per digit.The BM series will be introduced at IRCHEM 2005 (20/22/9/2005 - Dublin Irl)
New compact calibrator bridges the gap between portable and bench Top Calex Electronics has launched the new Convir FTK Fixed Infrared Temperature Calibration Checker. This rugged yet sleek calibration checker offers a fast, low-cost and highly accurate way to ensure infrared temperature sensors are operating within calibration limits. It offers the best of both worlds, with the accuracy and temperature range of a bench top unit combined with the compact size and ease of use of a portable calibrator. This allows it to be used in any situation, from the lab to the shop floor.
Easy alternative to PCB mount of half-brick dc-dc converters - Powerstax plc (formerly called Advanced Power Conversion PLC) of Farnborough, England, announces the introduction of the new ZTAH terminal adaptor providing a simple, quick and cost effective alternative to board mounting standard PCB pin half brick size dc-dc converters. Supplying an option for screw and clamp connections to PCB pin type half brick modules, makes the ZTAH adaptor ideal for use during bench testing, design work and for industrial applications. Measuring 43mm x 55mm, the Powerstax ZTAH adaptor fits without difficulty within the industry standard half brick dc-dc converter footprint (61.0mm x 57.9mm). Talk to Mark Carter.
Miniature flow sensors for hydrogen fuel cell efficiency measurement - Bronkhorst thermal mass flow controllers are taking an essential role in the many current fuel cell research projects. These power sources typically use hydrogen gas as the fuel and produce an electrical power output. Bronkhorst El-Flow and IQ+Flow systems are ideally suited to accurate measurement of the low gas flows needed, and with the integral valve can accurately control the flow of gas at the required rate - as defined by an analogue or digital signal from the fuel cell control system.
Recently displayed at the I Chem E (Institute of Chemical Engineers) Congress in Glasgow, the BOC Ech2o hydrogen fuel cell powered vehicle has been designed to demonstrate fuel efficiency. Ech2o is a joint development project to make an attempt to break the world fuel efficiency record, currently held by a Swiss vehicle at the equivalent of over 10,000mpg (5385 Km/Litre). Several British organisations are involved: BOC designed the hydrogen storage system; OSCar Automotive designed the body and running gear; and the electric power train has been developed by Oxford University.
Sprung cover protects data interfaces in industrial installations - A new version of the Harting Han(R) 3A industrial connector housing features a sprung cover with sufficient force to offer IP44 protection against dirt and corrosion to the contacts inside - even if the cover is left unlocked.
beta version embedded module - Analog Devices and National Instruments have announced availability for the public beta version of the NI LabVIEW Embedded Module for ADI Blackfin Processors, which provides design engineers early access to a seamless, graphical dataflow development paradigm to directly target Blackfin Processors. With this new intuitive software, more engineers can take advantage of embedded technology to increase productivity and reduce time to application.
Innovaative process analyser delivers superb pressure stability in form easily mounted in plant field shelters - Parker Instrumentation has launched an innovative turnkey solution for venting samples from process analysers into a plant's flare disposal or return system. Designated Vent Master, the product creates a constant pressure environment in the vent header to keep chemical/petrochemical process analysers operating at their maximum accuracy. The new system eliminates the need to vent to atmosphere, and resolves analyser accuracy issues associated with alternative disposal techniques.
Insertion turbine for metering in larger flow lines - Titan Enterprises has introduced an insertion turbine flow measurement system, for installation in larger diameter pipelines. This innovative, robust insertion turbine combines proven technology with modern materials and design, producing an inexpensive metering system suitable for retrofit in permanent installations, or for portable use at various metering locations, in 40-900mm diameter pipelines. Installation from the side of the flow line is made via a 1.5" BSP or NPT fitting, and versions are available for 'hot-tap' insertion into pressurised lines.
NASA director to be keynote speaker at Cork conference - Dr Charles Elachi, Director of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, based at CalTech, is to be the keynote speaker at the 40th International Universities Power Engineering Conference. Jointly hosted by the Department of Electrical & Electronic Engineering a University College Cork and the School of Electrical & Electronic Engineering at the Cork Institute of Technology, the Conference will start
on Wednesday, September 7th and concludes on Friday 9th.
Dr Elachi will address the conference on Friday 9th and he will speak on the future of Electrical Engineering in the Space Industry.
Universal chlorination and de-chlorination controller offers accurate control in water and wastewater applications - Moore Industries' DIN 555 Controller sets up easily to handle flow proportional control, residual control, compound loop control with lag times, and de-chlorination with sulfur dioxide. Designed with the needs of the water and wastewater industry in mind, the 555 offers a cost-effective solution for chlorination and de-chlorination processes. The front panel is NEMA 4X rated for protection from water and corrosion. All menu prompts are provided in plain English and set with large, back-lit keys.
Portable bit-error-rate tester for 10 Gbit/s measurements - The new AP9945 from Yokogawa is a compact, portable bit-error-rate tester dedicated to high-speed measurements in the 10 Gbit/s band. The AP9945 integrates a pulse pattern generator and error detector in a compact, lightweight (5 kg) package which optimises the use of bench space and allows measurements to be carried out alongside the system or device being tested. The unit is designed to be used in conjunction with a Windows(R) based PC via a USB connection, for which the driver and control software are provided as standard features.
New management software - Tyco Electronics has introduced a new version of the iTRACS Infrastructure Management software, specially designed for use with the AMP NETCONNECT AMPTRAC connectivity management system. The enhanced software is designed to better examine and map network connectivity, simplify moves, adds and changes (MACs), and eliminate time-consuming manual work-order processes by tailoring access to help desks, network administrators, and technicians.
Deal revolutionizes service delivery management - Syndesis has announced that it has signed a definitive agreement to purchase CoManage Corporation, a privately held global provider of data integrity management solutions for telecommunications service providers.
IGMP snooping makes networks easy to manage - Contemporary Controls now offers IGMP snooping (Internet Group Management Protocol) as part of the rich set of features designed in the company's managed Industrial Ethernet switches (the EISX_M, the EICP_M, and the EISB_M Series). "IGMP snooping is critical for today’s EtherNet/IP, IP video, and other networks which utilize a high number of multicast messages," says Bennet Levine, R&D Manager for Contemporary Controls.
Another first - National Instruments today released the industry's first PC-based multifunction data acquisition (DAQ) devices for PCI Express. The new NI PCIe-6251 and NI PCIe-6259 DAQ devices combine the high-performance PCI Express bus with the technology advancements of National Instruments M Series DAQ to offer engineers and scientists fast analogue and digital I/O with the dedicated per-slot bandwidth of PCI Express. The new devices feature up to 32 analogue channels with 16 bit, 1.25 MS/s sampling speed and 10 MHz digital I/O on up to 32 lines.
Chemical companies on the verge of a new investment cycle - Demand for automation and control solutions in the chemical sector is being hampered by twin factors of chemical production moving overseas, and the absence of new chemical plants being set up in the western states of the European Union. The main implication of this fall in demand is that solution suppliers without an installed base of existing products risk being marginalised simply due the lack of truly open’ opportunities. Nonetheless, the counterbalancing trend is that chemical manufacturers are expected to invest in retrofits and upgraded systems in order to improve their production efficiency and counter intense competition from low-cost suppliers. The clear findings of Frost & Sullivan research among end users shows that chemicals firms are favouring existing suppliers for upgrades, particularly in the key distributed control systems (DCS) product sector where relationships are well-entrenched.
New brochures offer designers extensive range of sensors - Designer and manufacturer of high precision linear and rotary position sensors and joysticks, Penny + Giles, has published a new set of product brochures. Available in print and online, the free brochures include detailed technical information about Penny + Giles' innovative and extensive product range, suitable for industrial and heavy-duty applications including hydraulics, pneumatics, and process control.
New online download function control system - Yokogawa has added an online download function to the STARDOM network-based control system, enabling it to achieve a level of operability and maintainability equal to that of a distributed control system (DCS). The development of this online download function exemplifies Yokogawa's commitment to the continuous enhancement of thios system.
Modems granted safety Compliance - MaxStream now offers Class I, Division 2 certified wireless radio modems. Class I, Div. 2 compliance ensures that specified MaxStream radios can be safely deployed in hazardous locations where highly flammable vapors are present. This certification encompasses compliance for use in environments where gases such as acetylene, hydrogen, ethylene and propane (Groups A, B, C, D) may be present. Class I, Div. 2 certification is often required for operation in locations such as gas stations, refineries, chemical plants and pipelines.
International instrumentation symposium expands in scope - The 52nd Annual International Instrumentation Symposium will now be sponsored by three ISA divisions - the Aerospace Division, the Test Measurement Division, and beginning this year, the Process Measurement and Control Division.
"We're thrilled that the Process Measurement and Control Division is joining in sponsoring this event. IIS attendees will surely benefit from their top-notch technical expertise," said Rodney Jones, ISA Administrator of ISA Technical Divisions. More information from Rodney Jones
One of the longest-running ISA Division Symposia, the 52nd IIS, held 7-11 May 2006 in Cleveland, Ohio, will provide an opportunity for attendees to gain valuable technical information and training in the areas of measurement/sensors, instrumentation systems, data and advanced system/sensor technology. Each year, innovative papers are presented on state-of-the-art topics. Paper abstracts are due by 15 December.
New laser-based instruments can analyse anything in just one second - The elemental composition of soil, biological tissue, ceramics, glass, gemstones, metals and even explosives can be analysed instantly using new spectrometer systems from Ocean Optics. This is a major technological advance. The Laser-induced Breakdown Spectrometer (LIBS) systems are real-time, high resolution, portable instruments capable of analysing practically every known element in gas, liquid or solid samples with a sensitivity of parts per billion. Applications for LIBS are as diverse as environmental sampling, forensic testing, semi-conductor analysis, archaeological research, cancer detection, paper production, blast-furnace monitoring, civil engineering and the detection of landmines, biological weapons and chemical contamination in solids, liquids or gas.
Contract to supply test system awarded- Carlo Gavazzi UK has won a contract to supply power quality analysers to Rotork Controls of Bath for the upgrade of their in-house test systems, enabling them to significantly improve their test process.
Versatile configurable DC gearmotors deliver high performance - Micromark C&CD's latest line of permanent magnet DC gearmotors produce high torque and superior performance in a compact package. The IM-21 gearmotor line incorporates powdered metal gearing to offer superior wear and acoustic performance at a lower cost compared with cut steel gears used by other manufacturers.
Thermal imaging system detects steel slag - The new SDS slag detection system from Land Instruments International combines the latest thermal imaging technology and almost 60 years' experience of the steel industry to control slag carry-over from furnace to ladle. Once the system hardware is installed in a suitable position to view the tapping area, the pre-installed and configured image processing software works 'straight out of the box' with minimum set-up - a feature not available with any other system. The operator has access to all the data for quality control purposes, and can view critical information such as the live thermal image, steel and slag percentages, time versus percentages graph, alarm level and alarm status. Secondary information such as tap number and sensor temperature is also available, but is less prominent so as not to distract the operator during the tap.
Yokogawa features new optical test products - Yokogawa is featuring a number of new optical test & measurement products at
ECOC 2005 (31st European Conference & Exhibition on Optical Communication - Glasgow, Scotland 26th - 28th September 2005). The introduction of these new products follows the integration of the optical communications test business of the former Ando Electric Company into Yokogawa's Test & Measurement division.
New book from Pinto - Pinto's Points covers management topics, globalization, sales and marketing, technology trends and futures, and far-out technology visions. "It closes with whimsical humor and poetry which I hope you'll enjoy" says Jim Pinto the author. It includes 174 brief "points" in 6 different parts, each introduced by an industry guru. Published by ISA, will be available on the bookstands at ISA Expo, October, 2005.
Simple and convenient "connect and detect" diagnostics for Profibus - Profichip, a division of VIPA the German manufacturer of innovative PLC and PC based automation solutions have launched a range of "connect and detect" connectors for diagnostics and troubleshooting on Profibus systems. The EasyConn-PB is simply connected to Profibus nodes or components via built-in cable guided screw-clamp terminations with standard type A cable (EN 50170). After a self-test cycle, the device provides diagnostic information via four colour-coded LED's (with on, off and flashing states) to determine a comprehensive list of functions including correct voltage supply and power level for device, device active/inactive on the bus and termination active/inactive or faulty termination. Integral 9-pin male and female sub-D connectors and a termination resistor switch are used for system expansion, bus analysis and programming. With no need to remove the device, testing and diagnosis is permanent, convenient and reliable. For technical information contact Mark Jones
Theoretical and general applications handbook - Westermo Data Communications has released the final instalment of its popular series of industrial communications handbooks. Entitled 'Theoretical and General Applications', the latest publication provides a comprehensive overview of the most common theoretical aspects of industrial data communication. Aimed at designers, maintainers and operators of industrial networks, the impressive 150-page publication offers a detailed look at the networking technologies currently available as well as addressing all issues relating to the application of these communications within industrial environments. Talk to Ray Lock.
Laboratory power supply provides constant power at up to 60 V - TTi (Thurlby Thandar Instruments) has enhanced its best-selling CPX400 laboratory DC power supply with a new model with an extended voltage range. The new model, designated CPX400A, retains the 840 W power capability of the CPX400, but can supply up to 60 V instead of the 42 V maximum of the previous model.
PID tuning translator eases conversion to new control system - ExperTune's PID Tuning Translator easily converts PID tuning from one industrial PID controller to another. It converts PID values from any of over 490 different industrial PID controllers to the new system. For example, when migrating from a PLC to a DCS, the PID tuning parameters are converted directly to the proper units and time bases for the algorithm choice. This maintains the established dynamic performance of the control loop.
Unshielded overmoulded cord sets for M8 and M12 connectors - A new range of unshielded moulded cord sets for the M8 and M12 connectors widely used in industrial control applications has been introduced by Harting. The cord sets are ideal for providing flexible control linkages in harsh industrial environments in areas such as machine tools and assembly plants. They are suitable for use with drag chains.
Thermography shows the real picture - Manufacturers are always on the look out for an effective way to better predict equipment failure, protect production assets and boost equipment reliability. To help address this need, Rockwell Automation has added infrared thermography data collection and analysis to its suite of condition-based maintenance services. Complementing the company's existing vibration and oil analysis capabilities, infrared thermography is a non-invasive condition-monitoring technology that monitors temperatures and thermal patterns while equipment is online and running full load. It can be used on a wide variety of equipment, including pumps, motors, bearings, pulleys, fans, gears, drives and conveyors to help manufacturers predict equipment failure and plan corrective action before a costly shutdown, equipment damage or personal injury occurs.
New toolkit simplifies time-series analysis, time-frequency analysis and wavelet applications - National Instruments has announced the NI LabVIEW Advanced Signal Processing Toolkit Version 7.5, a suite of easy-to-use, palette-based tools, example programs and utilities that extends the LabVIEW graphical development environment with cutting-edge measurement-oriented signal processing and analysis. Engineers and scientists can now access new graphical tools for simplifying work that incorporates time-series analysis, time-frequency analysis and wavelets. In addition, professors can use the toolkit's interactive, graphical methodology to effectively illustrate these key signal processing concepts to engineering students.
Two new directors join bus board - At its June 2005 Annual Meeting, Modbus-IDA expanded its Board of Directors and elected two new members, bringing the total number of Directors to eight. Serge Bassem, CEO of ACT'L sa, and Komal Mehta, Senior Product Manager of the new Industrial Communications and Power Network Division of Harting, join Kenneth Crater, Fred Cohn, James Moyne, Jean-Jeaque Poubeau, David Skelton, and Feng Xiaosheng on the Modbus-IDA Board.
I/O interconnect system for space critical and high speed applications - The Abacus Group is introducing an increased line-up of Mini Delta Ribbon (MDR) system products designed for high level I/O applications such as telecoms, medical and broadcast equipment where space is at a premium. In addition a High Speed MDR (HS MDR) range is available to address the needs of high speed data transmission.
New torque sensors extend range - Kistler has extended the range of its piezoelectric reaction torque sensors with the addition of two new models. This family of sensors, which now covers the whole measuring range from +/-1, +/-10, +/-25, +/-200 and +/-1,000Nm, is suitable for torques from approx. 0.001 Nm, with each sensor providing an extremely wide measuring range, one of the major advantages of piezoelectric sensors. The new torque sensors are supplied calibrated for 100 % and 10 % of the measuring range with additional calibration ranges available as an option.
New series of rugged flat panel monitors for high reliability in demanding military and industrial applications - GE Fanuc Embedded Systems has introduced the new Sentinel Series of rugged flat panel monitors which can withstand harsh environments to provide high reliability in the most demanding military and industrial applications. Offering the mechanical design and environmental advancements to exceed strict specifications, the Sentinel Series monitors are available in 10.4", 15", 19" and 21" display sizes with anti-reflective and anti-glare coatings for improved visualisation and faster, more accurate operator response. All models in the family have been designed, tested and certified to provide compliance for shock (MIL-S-901D, Grade A), vibration (MIL-STD-167-1), EMI/EMC (MIL-STD-461E), and environmental (MIL-STD-810E).
Adding intelligence to Einstein! - The most modern commercial building in Germany has achieved new levels of
flexibility of accommodation coupled with world class energy efficiency and low lifecycle costs, thanks to an open and scalable control system based on
Mitsubishi Electric's MX4 SCADA technology. The building, Einstein III in Haidhausen, Munich, offers 37,000sqm of office and commercial space, underground car parking, a stunning central rotunda, private offices and conference facilities. With its level of intelligence, it was only natural to name it after that nation's most famous scientific son.
Second generation PCI-Bus motion controller provides fast, cost-effective control for up to 12 axes - Baldor has launched a high performance PCI-bus motion controller featuring very fast communications and response capabilities. Known as NextMove PCI-2, it offers extensive digital and analog I/O and provides a highly flexible all-in-one control solution for PC-hosted automation applications. The new controller accommodates position feedback data at rates as high as 10MHz, and features a servo loop update time of just 100 microseconds - twice as fast as its predecessor. It is especially suitable for multi-axis motion control applications with high data transfer or processing overheads, such as vision systems and tasks involving thousands of co-ordinated moves.
Easing the configuration of batch applications while improving productivity and quality - Manufacturers interested in improving consistency, productivity and quality in batch applications - while also reducing development time and lowering total cost of ownership - will welcome the new PhaseManager feature included in the latest version of RSLogix 5000 programming software from Rockwell Automation. This product embeds ISA S88-compliant code into all Logix family controllers, providing a standard framework for configuring and sequencing phase state logic directly in the controller or by using their RSBizWare Batch. PhaseManager's use throughout the popular Allen-Bradley Logix controller family provides unprecedented scalability, lowering user's cost.
RoHS compliance makes electronic products safer for the environment - Legislation pushing for "environmentally friendly" products in the industry has become a reality in Europe with the RoHS and WEEE directives, and Contemporary Controls is responding with compliant.products. Joe Stasiek, Sales Manager for Contemporary Controls, believes the new European guidelines are noteworthy developments. "We are taking a proactive approach to achieving compliance by the required July 2006 date as stated by the European Union," says Stasiek. "We will continue to support our customers in shipping product worldwide. And we want to help keep the Earth green."
The European Union says that Member States shall restrict their use of hazardous substances (RoHS) in electrical and electronic equipment. A second directive, WEEE, seeks the prevention of waste electrical and electronic equipment, and in addition, the reuse, recycling, and other forms of recovery of such wastes so as to reduce the disposal of waste.
High tech position monitor integrates for automation - Hoerbiger-Origa has developed SFI-plus, a new contactless displacement measuring system for use with their electric and pneumatic linear actuators. Based on an incremental encoder, the pulse train from which monitors the position of the piston within the barrel of the actuator, SFI-plus can be
used as a standalone monitor or, for more demanding applications, integrated with a PLC (programmable logic controller).
Analogue Interfacing is only 6 mm wide! - The new MINI-MCR product family from Phoenix Contact provides a wide range of functions in 6.2 mm wide modules without loss of performance. The product family includes isolating amplifiers, signal duplicators, passive isolators, repeater power supplies and temperature transducers. All products have 3-way isolation and have an overall height of 102.5 mm allowing them to be installed in 120 mm deep enclosures on plant. The family is approved by Germanischer Lloyd (GL) for marine applications and is also suitable for installation in ATEX Zone 2 areas.
Temperature/humidity mapping guide for industrial processors now available - Industrial processors seeking to minimize spoilage of inventory and products can now access a free-of-charge "Temperature and
Temperature/Humidity Mapping Guide" from Dickson Company. This best practices guide to warehouse and production facility temperature and humidity mapping can potentially save users of the guide thousands of dollars annually by protecting inventory quality.
Spectrophotometers meet standards - The Z-2000 series of flame, furnace and tandem atomic absorption spectrophotometers from Hitachi High-Technologies is able to accurately determine low concentrations of toxic elements such as cadmium, mercury, lead and hexavalent chromium. This is of increasing importance with the implementation (on August 13 2005) of the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (WEEE) and the planned implementation of the Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) on July 1, 2006.
Special Motorised Fixture for Tensile Testing Of Rubber O-Rings - Lloyd Instruments can offer a versatile system for tensile testing of rubber O-rings, featuring a special motorised ring grip in conjunction with a universal materials testing machine such as the 5kN LRXPlus. O-rings are used for fluid and vacuum sealing in a host of industries including automotive and aerospace.
Exclusive agent apointed for Britain - Thurlby Thandar Instruments has been appointed as the exclusive UK agent for the Argantix range of high-power DC power sources. Manufactured by California Instruments, the world's leading manufacturer of AC power sources, the Argantix range has been developed specifically to meet the demanding DC environment in modern aircraft and industrial power systems.
Testing tool provides assurance of fieldbus device interoperability - Fieldbus Foundation (FF) has announced the release of its enhanced Interoperability Test Kit (ITK) 4.61 version. The
test kit has been updated from previous versions with additional functionality expanding the scope of interoperability testing to benefit end
users of FF devices.
OEM Ready Solutions - Diamond Systems, a leading designer and manufacturer of highly integrated embedded single board computers, I/O boards, and power supplies, has signed an agreement with Suntron Systems, an industry expert in all aspects of system integration, certifications, new product introduction and life-cycle management to create the "OEM Ready Solutions" program. The program allows OEM customers to offload non-core activities, such as product development and program management, to Diamond Systems, freeing development teams to focus on their core competencies such as software and market development.
Last round of transitions to lead-free electronics products and production Processes - When Productronica closes its gates on November 18th, 2005, the international electronics industry will only have exactly 225 days to make the permanent transition to lead-free electronics products and production processes. This is because electronic and electrical devices that are put on the market in the European Union (EU) on 1 July 2006 or thereafter are subject to the stipulations of the EU's RoHS directive for the Restriction of Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment (also known as the "lead-free directive") and WEEE directive on Waste from Electrical and Electronic Equipment. These directives forbid the use of lead, mercury and hexavalent chrome as well as the flame-retardant polybrominated biphenyls (PBB) or polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE) in electrical and electronic equipment. This means that by July 1st, 2006, all products have to be manufactured using lead-free joining technology - at the accustomed levels of quality and reliability and with the least possible increase in cost.
On the first and second day of the trade show (the 15th and 16th of November 2005), leading experts from industry and the research community will be using the framework of the Productronica Forums to hold discussions and presentations on all aspects to provide a Lead-Free Orientation Guide.
Major upgrade to paperless recorders for pharmaceutical applications - Yokogawa has introduced a number of major enhancements to its DXP family of paperless recorders, which are specifically designed to meet the electronic record and signature requirements of FDA Regulation 21CFR Part 11, covering the storage of electronically produced data in the pharmaceutical industry. The new recorders are equipped for use with SNTP (Simple Network Time Protocol), so that a recorder can be linked as a client to an SNTP server on a network. Alternatively, one recorder can be used as an SNTP master to a number of other recorders on a network. In each case, the recorders will be automatically synchronised with the network clock, removing the effects of clock drift between different units.
Overmoulded RJ45 connector for industrial environments - Harting has expanded its family of industrial data interconnection products with the introduction of an robust overmoulded version of its RJ45 IP20 Ethernet connector for use in industrial environments.
Event to focus on end user applications in the life sciences industry - The Fieldbus Foundation (FF) has just announced that Genzyme, a leading biotech company, will host a comprehensive FF seminar on Nov. 3-4 in Cambridge, MA (US). The event will include hands-on instruction in the use of FF control systems, and feature presentations by leading worldwide experts in fieldbus technology.
More on our Fieldbus News Page.
Watch this space! - We hear on the grapevine that Jim Pinto is at it again and "Pintos Points - The Book" is rolling the presses for publication in the next few weeks. And the grapevine is rarely wrong....!
"The new vision in infrared thermometry - Raytek, provider of infrared thermometry, introduces its Marathon MM Series. This new platform of high-performance non-contact infrared temperature sensors is designed to bring greater flexibility and adds high-performance features, such as real-time video recording capabilities, to a broad range of process monitoring applications for an affordable price.
Alarming feature improves safety - The Meech Model 986 Feedback system has been a huge success since its recent launch. It is installed in a number of factories for automatically controlling the problems of static and has been proven in many processing applications including thermoforming, slitting/rewinding and gravure printing. Built in to the Model 986 is an important safety alarm feature, not seen in other systems.
Static is recognised as a source of hazard as it has the capability of igniting flammable materials. In applications such as thermoforming, where the process uses a hazardous carrier, the new Feedback system provides a remote alarm function to warn of increasing static charge levels and the associated fire risk. Both visual and audio alarms can be activated at remote locations, so alerting personnel to provide immediate attention. A data logging facility is also incorporated into the system to monitor performance and provide historical data for QC records and QA certification.
See more on safety on our Safe page
New machine vision board combines FireWire with industrial digital I/O - Engineers building machine vision systems now can trigger and synchronise multiple IEEE 1394 (FireWire) cameras without requiring additional digital I/O or custom circuitry using the new National Instruments PCI-8254R image acquisition board. The NI PCI-8254R board, which features NI reconfigurable I/O technology, combines an IEEE 1394 host adaptor with the digital I/O required for industrial control and communication.
Register online -
Instrumentation South 2005 offers visitors the opportunity to see and evaluate the latest innovations in sensors, transducers, controls and PLCs, electronic test and measurement, QA, calibration, data acquisition, recorders, displays, monitors and analysis equipment.
You can now pre-register on-line to visit Instrumentation South, which is being held at the Madejski Stadium, Reading on 5th & 6th October.
Condition monitoring data collector offers ATEX capability - A new intrinsically safe condition-monitoring data collector allows fast and easy data collection from mechanical equipment operating in Class 1 Div. 1 environments - while helping manufacturers and industrial users meet ATEX Petrochemical Certification Requirements. The Entek Enpac Ex from Rockwell Automation is specifically designed to meet ATEX Zone 0, a EU category designation for areas where an explosive atmosphere is continuously present or present for long periods. Enpac is a family of Windows CE-based, high-performance, two-channel data collectors and signal analysers. The units are designed to help ensure safe and efficient condition monitoring of equipment found in many process industries with large rotating equipment, including marine, power generation, water/wastewater, and petrochemical.See more on safety on our Safe page
Shopping for Industrial Ethernet in your pajamas! - E-Commerce is the preferred way for many corporate customers to buy; a corporate credit card generates less paperwork than a purchase order. So for customers who are comfortable buying products online, Contemporary Controls now offers this capability for their Industrial Ethernet products. "We accept product orders by phone, by fax and now our customers have the convenience and luxury of shopping in their pajamas via our CTRLink website," says Joe Stasiek, Sales Manager for Contemporary Controls.
World's smallest hand-held thermal imager is big on benefits! - The mobile phone-sized Land Guide M4, the world's smallest, lightest and most advanced yet thermal imager, is now available from Land Instruments. Incorporated into the low-cost, compact design are advanced features such as fingertip controls, high quality thermal and visual images with voice annotation, on-board image processing, a large capacity memory and versatile USB connectivity. With a sensitivity of 0.12degC, the Guide M4 detects extremely small temperature differences within the measurement range -20 to 250degC and displays them as high-resolution, 16-bit thermal images.
Using magnetic nano-oscillator to solve limitations of integrated oscillators in wireless devices - The project "TUnable NAno-Magnetic OScillators for integrated transceiver applications" aims at demonstrating the breakthrough concept spin torque in a nano-scale microwave integrated oscillator for application in wireless integrated devices. The project is part of the FP6 program of the EU and is being coordinated by IMEC. Other partners in the TUNAMOS-project are STMicroelectronics, UPS Université Paris Sud and UFSD University of Sheffield. The project was launched on 1st of June 2005 for a duration of 3 years.
European approval - Biosafe Medical Technologies, Inc. announced today it has been granted a Product Certificate of Registration, or CE Marking, for its rapid response Anemia Meter. The Biosafe Anemia Meter is the first disposable blood test for anemia detection. Designed and developed by their research and development team, the test produces an instant result that is both easy to understand and as accurate as a standard laboratory analysis.
David Fleisner has the details.
Connection makes timer installations simple, fail-safe - Carlo Gavazzi is introducing three new types of timer with Fast-ON connection. New -F versions of the EAS, EBS and ECS solid-state output timers provide all the features and functionality of existing screw-terminal devices including wide timing range and compact format. The addition of two-wire Fast-ON connection not only makes wiring quick and simple, but also ensures reliable installation even in high-vibration environments. Typical applications include construction site equipment, machine tools, transportation, industrial doors, HVAC equipment, and pumps, compressors and vacuum equipment: in fact any application where wires could be loosened by extended vibration.
Take the confusion out of 10 Gigabit Ethernet! - Tyco Electronics has announced the AMP NETCONNECT XG Systems Advantage, a comprehensive portfolio that includes multimode fibre to 300 meters (XG fibre cabling system), PiMF copper cabling to 100 meters (XG copper cabling system) and UTP copper cabling to 100 meters (XG UTP copper cabling system). 'The XG Systems Advantage is intended to take the confusion out of 10 Gigabit Ethernet by providing the facts about each solution, enabling customers to make informed, cost-effective decisions.' according to Eddie Boyce, UK Product Marketing Manager for Tyco Electronics AMP NETCONNECT Solutions Division.
Updated brochure reflects improvements and additions to platform - Since its launch more than four years ago, Aerotech's A3200 Digital Automation Platform has been refined and improved with several new features for simplified integration and reduced cost of multi axis motion and machine control systems. Covering these enhancements and with a detailed overview of its latest range of NDrive servo and stepper drives, high performance direct-drive motors and positioning systems, Aerotech have released a new 32 page brochure available in hard copy or PDF format. The new brochure complements their Resource Guide CD which is packed with over 500 pages of detailed specification and reference information for its complete range of motion control and positioning systems.
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