Controller enables savings of 10,000 pounds sterling per annum at British laundry - A Eurotherm Model 2500 controller is enabling Fenland Laundries, one of the UK's most respected textile rental companies, to make energy savings of more than £10,000 per year in its 'Micronclean' cleanroom clothing operation. By controlling the power rather than simply the voltage supplied to the 96 fans used to maintain a positive air pressure in the cleanroom area of the company's garment laundering facility, Fenland has been able to ensure that its energy consumption is kept to an absolute minimum with a consequent beneficial impact on overheads. Founded more than a century ago, Skegness, Lincolnshire based Fenland has satellite operations at Grantham and Louth and provides a nationwide, ISO9001 accredited service. There are a number of companies that offer a cleanroom service, but Micronclean has the largest share of this market in Britain

Agreement will ease enterprise integration, improve quality and drive productivity - GE Fanuc has announced the completion of a sales and marketing agreement with SAP America to jointly market GE Fanuc Production Management solutions and SAP® applications - O easing plant floor and enterprise integration to increase quality, drive productivity, and enable success in key business initiatives such as Lean Six Sigma, regulatory compliance and efficiency.

Process engineering service improves laboratory workflow efficiency - Invetech, a specialist in instrument development and custom automation, is offering clients a unique process engineering service to improve workflow efficiency in laboratories.  The service employs advanced models from the engineering and manufacturing industries, using both automated and non-automated approaches, to identify and eliminate pinch-points and to plan for future changes.

First issue of 2007 - The first issue of the year of The Ethernet Book has reached the Read-out office. You too can have a copy by registering at their website! and tell them we sent you!

Shortform catalogue covers wire-harness and connector probes - A new shortform catalogue covering wire-harness and connector probes has been produced by Peak Test Services.

Family of smart HART transmitters have exceptional accuracy - The THZ2 and TDZ2 family of two-wire, loop-powered Smart HART Temperature and Signal Transmitters from Moore Industries have input-to-output analog accuracy up to ±0.014°C (±0.025°F), the absolute best in the industry. The 4-20mA temperature output signal also has a superimposed HART digital signal, which allows any HART-compatible control device to program zero, span, sensor trim offset and other calibration variables, and to interrogate and read multiple real-time process variables. Up to 15 transmitters can be linked via a single twisted pair wire.

3 tools-in-1 provides easy HVAC airflow measurement solution - Fluke, the world's leading supplier of handheld test and measurement equipment, has introduced the 922 Airflow Meter, a rugged tool designed to provide an easy-to-use solution for ventilation monitoring and diagnostics applications in the field. Combining differential air pressure, air velocity, and air flow measurements into a single meter, it enables technicians to conveniently monitor air pressure across key HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) components and to help maintain a comfortable environment by checking for optimum airflow balance.

New ProfiBus installation guidelines for cabling and assembly and for commissioning - PI (PROFIBUS & PROFINET International) has published an Installation Guide in three parts to support engineers working on the design, installation and commissioning of PROFIBUS systems.
More on our Fieldbus News Page Fibre optic thermometer can stand the heat in a tight spot - If you need to monitor temperatures of plant or product on your manufacturing line but the critical points are hard to reach or the temperatures apparently too high, the Land Fibroptic Model FG non-contact thermometer could be a reliable and economic answer. Designed for temperatures from 980 to 1650°C, the Model FG has a rugged and compact heat sensing head that can be placed sufficiently close to the target spot to take an accurate reading.

Automatic report generation for Nadcap surveys - Yokogawa has developed a software package that enables Yokogawa's DAQSTATION family of paperless recording systems to produce Nadcap survey reports, typically used by the aerospace and automotive industries to assess furnaces used for the heat treatment of metals.

Free 2007 test tools catalogue - Fluke, the world leader in compact professional test tools, is continuing its march forward into more applications fields - and this is reflected in the continued growth of its annual Test Tools Catalogue. Now exceeding 100 pages, this free, full-colour publication contains detailed product-related specifications and comparisons to make choosing the best instrument for a particular job easy. It is also packed with background information about important functions and features.

Optical multiplexer for multipoint sampling - The MPM-2000 Fiber Optic Multiplexer from Mikropack is a high precision instrument that can optically couple a light source to either 8 or 16 outputs in sequential order. In addition it can be used to optically couple a spectrometer to either 8 or 16 inputs.

New 2007 T&M product catalogue - Keithley Instruments has published its 2007 Test and Measurement Product Catalogue. This desktop reference guide offers details and specifications on the company's general-purpose and sensitive sourcing and measurement products, DC switching, RF switching and measurement, data acquisition solutions, semiconductor test systems, and optoelectronics test hardware. Tutorials simplify choosing solutions for specific applications.

DIN-Rail PSU offers 50% more power - PULS has announced the latest addition to its premium range of DIN-Rail power supplies. The Dimension Q-Series now includes the QS10.241 wide input range, 24VDC, 10A output power supply requiring only 60mm of mounting space.

New shortform, catalogue covers ac-dc power supplies and dc-dc converters - Emerson Network Power has published a ?new shortform catalogue that covers every standard Astec and Artesyn power conversion product. This is the first time that Astec and Artesyn products have appeared in the same publication, following Emerson's acquisition of Artesyn in 2006. Containing 64 information-packed pages, the catalogue is an invaluable source of reference data for electronics engineers and system developers.

Readers' choice awards for HMI and SCADA software - Wonderware, has reached the first place in both HMI and SCADA software categories awarded by Control magazine readers, for the 12th year. In addition, Wonderware was ranked second in the data acquisition category as a vendor providing outstanding service and support. The recognition was based on reader feedback evaluating the customer service performance.
Wonderware supports the signpost with an advert on our home page

Building automation systems at show - The 2007 AHR Exhibition at the Dallas Convention Center featured the products and services of 1,789 companies, represented by nearly 19,000 industry professionals and viewed by more than 23,000 attendees. In the Building Automation and Controls area, the key themes were: better integration of building automation (BA) systems; bringing data and control to the enterprise level and using it to make good decisions; convergence of intelligent building technologies and efficient equipment to achieve lower costs and 'greener' buildings; and coping with the increased complexity of designing, implementing, and operating the latest generation of BA systems. (ARC report)

System summary brochure simplifies selection of control solutions - VIPA's new and improved System Summary brochure, with additional illustrations and improved descriptive text, is now available from the German designer and manufacturer of modular PLC and PC control solutions. With added pages covering new products and updates, spares lists, an updated world-wide distributor directory, and many new features, the 46 page information resource summarises VIPA's comprehensive range of centralised and decentralised control systems, many with Siemens Step®7 programming and Siemens S7-300® hardware interfacing compatibility.

Magnetostrictive transducers with Profibus interface for precision and reliability - Gefran has expanded its MK and IK range of magnetostrictive linear displacement transducers with new Profibus DP interface versions featuring parameter based GSD file set-up. With stroke lengths from 50 mm to 4000 mm, Gefrans new MK4-P (profile version) and IK2-P (rod version) are aimed at applications requiring integration in complex processing and automation systems, especially over long communication distances and where data transmission must be rapid and secure.

Surge arrester is ATEX certified for protecting process field devices in hazardous areas - DEHNpipe from DEHN is an ATEX-certified surge arrester designed for protecting process field devices in hazardous areas against the effects of lightning strikes and other electrical surges. DEHNpipe carries ATEX certification II 2(1) G EEx ia IIC T4 T5 T6 and also meets the requirements of FISCO (Fieldbus Intrinsically Safe Concept).

Ruggedised construction for heavy payload, long travel precision positioning - With a ruggedised and fully sealed design, Aerotech's ALS5000 series linear stages combine direct-drive motor technology and linear motion guide bearings, for high precision positioning of large payloads in harsh production environments. The range is available in a choice of widths: The ALS5000 series (279 mm wide) has seven travel range options from 200 mm to 1000 mm. The ALS500WB series (571 mm wide) has five travel range options 450 mm to 1000 mm. The wide base version is designed to facilitate X-Y mounting and accommodate larger offset stage loading. It also includes a dual linear motor drive to provide the extra power needed for high speed positioning.

New transmission protection for forklifts now available - Lamerholm Electronics tells us of of the new Lamerholm TP transmission protection system, designed to save tyres and protect transmission when operating forklift trucks. This new product complements Lamerholm's existing range of ImpactManager equipment monitors for improving forklift safety and therefore saving money throughout the materials handling industry.
This comprehensive range of products will be on show on stand 19J162 at IMHX in March 2007.

Coded switches offer binary and gray encoding - Lorlin Electronics has announced the availability of its wide range of coded rotary switches for control and programming functions. The standard BCK series offers 16 positions of binary encoding or complementary hexadecimal versions. The contacts in conventional binary coded switches produce a standard binary count as the contact disc rotates. However, this has the drawback that if the disc stops between two adjacent sectors, or the contacts are not perfectly aligned, it can be impossible to determine the angle of the shaft and an incorrect code may be read.

Automation project for Cilacap Power Plant in central Java, Indonesia - Invensys Process Systems China has implemented an I/A Series distributed control system (DCS) project for the recently constructed Cilacap Power Plant, a two-unit, 600-megawatt coal-fired generating plant located at Cilacap, on the south coast of central Java in Indonesia. The new plant is to date the largest coal-fired generating project imported to Indonesia from China.
Two-unit 600-megawatt plant with I/A Series DCS is largest coal-fired generating project exported to Indonesia from China

New sealed linear transducer for rugged industrial applications - Penny + Giles has launched a new contactless sealed linear transducer that provides reliable, fit-and-forget position sensing for rugged industrial applications. The robust SLT190 is aimed primarily at the off-highway (construction, agriculture) and utility vehicle markets and is suitable for the harsh conditions of steering position applications, lift mechanisms, and hydro-pneumatic active suspension systems. This transducer has a short body to stroke length ratio for compact dimensions making it ideal as a replacement for existing linear potentiometers whilst providing a significant cost saving over equivalent stroke inductive transducers.

Intelligent energy controls - Low Power Radio Solutions has had its market leading "Easy Radio" modules designed into an intelligent energy management by Envision Energy Ltd. Marketed as Intelligent Energy Controls the system provides a reliable way to save on energy costs by ensuring non-essential equipment is turned off when it is not needed. Most commercial premises contain electrical equipment that only needs to be switched on for a portion of each day, usually when staff are on site.

Network cabling system for Staffordshire University - The AMP NetConnect Business Unit of Tyco Electronics has installed a Category 6 network cabling system with more than 2000 outlets at one of Staffordshire University's buildings in Stafford. The project was undertaken in conjunction with two authorised NDIs (NETCONNECT Design & Installation Contractors) - JPR Engineering Services and TIS. The final stage, consisting of three floors and 1500 outlets, was completed in record time because the work could only be done during the University's summer recess.

First-of-its-kind training covers fieldbus installation and testing - The Fieldbus Center at Lee College (US), a National Science Foundation (NSF) recognized and funded institution, today announced it is offering a Foundation™ fieldbus training course for power and wire installers. The two-day course covers installation and testing of fieldbus physical layer components.

Selection guide for automation IT products - Harting has produced a comprehensive 8-page fold-out selection guide for its ranges of connectivity solutions for the industrial automation IT environment.

Supporting enterprise quality initiatives and lower production costs - Wonderware Ireland has announced the availability of QI Analyst software version 8.0, with new improved enterprise-level quality management functions. Using these analysis methods contributes to quality consistency, lower production costs and improved production competitiveness. QI Analyst software is their comprehensive real-time statistical process control (SPC) client software and provides a wide range of real-time SPC analysis methods, which enable industrial manufacturers to benefit from real-time SPC and quality analysis. The software is also to be considered an integral component of Wonderware's Production and Performance Management Software Solutions.

Telecom Sector to fuel demand for small and medium DC power systems in Europe - Although many factors can be attributed to the growing demand for DC power systems in Europe, the adoption of new technologies by the telecom sector - particularly wireless and wireline applications which require DC systems to power their needs, mostly in the small and medium power levels - will be a key market driver. The European DC power systems market is estimated to grow at a cumulative growth rate of over 7 per cent during 2006 to 2013, with telecom end-users showing the highest growth rate.
Frost & Sullivan finds that the European DC Power Systems Market earned revenues of &eur;545.9 million in 2006 and estimates this to reach &eur;886.9 million in 2013

Eliminates the crippling restrictions and high costs of FISCO systems - CA-MooreHawke, a division of Moore Industries-International tells us that the ROUTE-MASTER Fieldbus System, composed of power supplies and device couplers, has been approved by Factory Mutual as an intrinsically-safe apparatus for use in the U.S. and Canada. The FM approval clears the way to apply the ROUTE-MASTER Fieldbus System in hazardous areas.
This is a significant achievement. It means that this system is now officially certified to work in hazardous environments in North America and Europe.

Compact industrial scales - Sartorius demonstrates its commitment to innovation with the launch of the new Signum series, a new generation of easy-to-use compact industrial scales set to revolutionize industrial weighing. Suitable for use in legal metrology, the new range of compact industrial scales come in a choice of three innovative weighing technologies. The Signum Regular models (SIWR) use a standard weighing system that can handle resolutions of up to 35,000d; Signum Advanced models (SIWA) feature a mechatronic weighing system offering resolutions up to 65,000d; and, the Signum Supreme models (SIWS) are equipped with a monolithic weigh cell that offer resolutions up to 350,000d.

"Productivity Boost" significantly improves performance for online operations - GE Fanuc Automation has announced the release of Proficy™ Machine Edition Version 5.60 which provides a "Productivity Boost," focusing on features such as a new PACSystems LD Online Compare utility and Word-for-Word change, Test-Edit, and Run-Mode-Store, to improve performance for online operations. Their Proficy Machine Edition is an automation software breakthrough deploying HMI, motion and multi-target control in an integrated development environment.

Latest real-time module simplifies communication to real-time targets, delivers increased determinism - National Instruments has announced the release of the NI LabWindows/CVI 8.1 Real-Time Module, an extension to the proven ANSI C development environment that makes it easy for engineers to create and deploy reliable and deterministic applications to dedicated real-time hardware such as PXI and desktop PCs. LabWindows/CVI Real-Time takes advantage of network variables to simplify the process of transferring data between real-time and Windows applications. The software also introduces a new high-resolution timing engine for achieving more precise timing and determinism.

Planning ahead! - National Instruments has just opened registrations for NIDays 2007, the company's annual virtual instrumentation conference and exhibition. Once again, this industry event will be held in association with the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) and will take place on Thursday 25th October 2007 at Savoy Place, London (GB), home of the IET.

Rugged circular connectors withstand water, dust, vibration and EMC - Leading cable solutions provider, Lapp Ltd, announces two new series of circular connectors designed for use in applications where a versatile, compact and rugged connector is required. Part of Lapp’s Epic Circon family, both the M23 signal connector and the LS1 power connector comply with the requirements of DIN EN 61984, are rated to IP68 and are approved to UL, CSA and VDE standards.

Mixed-signal oscilloscope combines four 1 GHz analogue channels with 32-bit logic input - The Yokogawa SignalXplorer™ DL9710L is a high-performance mixed-signal oscilloscope which combines four 1 GHz analogue channels with a 32-bit logic input. The new instrument can carry out simultaneous measurement and analysis on four channels of analogue data and 32-bit logic signals, with each analogue channel offering a 1 GHz frequency bandwidth and a sampling speed of up to 5 GS/s. The memory length of 6.25 MW per channel is available across all 36 channels.

Network cabling systems in health applications - At the HC2007 event (19 - 21 March Harrogate GB), the AMP NetConnect Business Unit of Tyco Electronics is featuring its comprehensive range of network cabling systems for hospitals and related health-care applications. Products on show include Category 6 cabling systems, 10 Gbit/s XG shielded cable systems, a range of fibre-optic products, and the AMPTRAC connectivity management system.

Today as we reported last week the company which markets Wonderware products in Ireland and Britain has changed the name of the company to SolutionsPT and will be using the band names Wonderware Ireland (see above) and Wonderware UK to market in these particular territories. They also move to a new address today. The signpost wishes John Bailey and his team every success in the ongoing evolution of the business. Release on this news

New lightweight CO2 detector for simple, portable protection - The new Gasman CO2 detector from Crowcon is small, light and easy to use. Weighing just 130g ÅO the lightest on the market ÅO it is extremely durable, with high impact resistance and dust/water ingress protection to IP65. When potentially hazardous levels of CO2 are detected the Gasman alerts the user with a loud 95 dBA alarm, an extremely bright red/blue visual warning and also by vibrating.

High profile duo Added UK sales team - Leading cable solutions provider, the Lapp Group, has boosted its UK sales team with two key appointments. Sean Gavin has joined as Regional Sales Manager for Scotland and Arlene Scott as Sales Office Manager, based at the company's Head Office in Perivale, West London.

Industry's highest-performance PXI embedded controllers - National Instruments has announced a family of PXI, PXI Express and PXI real-time embedded controllers based on the 2.16 GHz dual-core Intel Core 2 Duo processor T7400. The NI PXI-8106 and NI PXIe-8106 controllers deliver a performance improvement of more than 100 percent compared to systems running traditional single-core processors. With two cores, or computing engines, in one processor, the new PXI and PXI Express controllers can simultaneously execute two computing tasks.

On-demand market intelligence service launched - ARC Advisory Group announces the release of its new Market Intelligence Service (MIS), providing a database of global statistics for all automation and software products. MIS gives companies the intelligence to more accurately predict and make solid, fact-based decisions. Today's fast-paced, competitive marketplace means there is increased pressure to know where you stand against your competition and which products, industries, and geographies have the most growth potential.

High precision motion control - With the new IPS210 high precision, fully digital minidrive, Technosoft continues to expand its family of intelligent universal drives based on the MotionChipTM DSP Control Technology. Designed to embed motion control, drive and PLC functionalities in an incredibly small single unit (62x42x20 mm) this minidrive is easy to integrate in motion control applications where space is critical.

Air Quality Community Gears up For event MCERTS 2007 will present the air quality community with an opportunity to assimilate the latest developments in legislation, Standards and monitoring technologies through participation in a Conference, Workshops and an Exhibition. The MCERTS events were originally created to provide a forum for the exchange of information relating to the Environment Agency's monitoring certification scheme. However, the MCERTS events have grown into red-letter diary dates for anyone involved with air quality, including process operators (Part A and B), regulators, local authorities, instrument manufacturers, test houses, contractors, consultants, researchers and academics.
Comprehensive list of conferences, exhibitions, courses and workshops on our Events Page

T&M finalist announced - Pickering Interfaces, has announced it was named a Finalist in CMP Technology's EE Times third Annual Creativity in Electronics (ACE) Awards for Test & Measurement. Their model 40-581 Switch Matrix was selected as a Finalist due to its high density in terms of electrical crosspoints per module as well as the overall product strategy of providing cabling and verification tools, all of which make it easier for engineers to use these products as part of their test strategy.

Purchase of Chinese cement plant completed - CRH, having received the necessary government approval, has completed the purchase of a cement plant in Heilongjiang province, northeast China. The plant, which will operate as Harbin Sanling Cement Company ("Harbin Sanling"), is located in Xiaoling Township, approximately 45 km southeast of Heilongjiang's largest city, Harbin (population: 9 million). Harbin Sanling is a modern plant with two clinker production lines and total cement capacity of 650,000 tonnes per annum.

Analysis symposia for Houston - The ISA Analysis Division will host its 2007 symposium in Houston, Texas, 15-19 April. The theme for this event, "Process Control and Compliance: Analytical Solutions," covers process analysis topics ranging from methods and applications to system operation and maintenance.
Comprehensive list of conferences, exhibitions, courses and workshops on our Events Page

Faster time-to-value and enhanced extendibility - GE Fanuc Automation Solutions has announced the availability of Proficy Plant Applications 4.3, a new version of the company’s Production Management software which focuses on Efficiency, Quality, Production Execution, Genealogy and Batch Analysis to enable visibility across process, discrete and hybrid industries. With Proficy Plant Applications, companies can gain clear insight into their operations to more efficiently manage and achieve peak performance. This new version is designed to help users deploy Production Management systems faster, as well as more easily expand existing systems to tackle business challenges such as regulatory compliance, asset utilisation, product quality, and speed to market.

Design custom motion controllers for stepper, servo motors - National Instruments has announced the latest version of the NI SoftMotion Development Module for LabVIEW, the revolutionary software that empowers machine builders and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to create customised motion controllers using software and deploy them for any NI hardware platform. OEMs and machine builders can use a range of pre-built motion functions and control algorithms to quickly create motion controllers based on specific application requirements as well as price and performance needs. The new NI SoftMotion Development Module 2.0 expands this flexible environment to stepper motor control and adds support for the Windows Vista OS and new National Instruments CompactRIO controllers for high-performance motion control.

Dedicated electromagnetic software for coaxial connectors and devices provide new price/performance to automated design - Vector Fields announces a novel electromagnetic design tool for coaxial devices such as connectors and attenuators. By providing two-dimensional electromagnetic simulation only, which is ideal for radially-symmetric RF components, the new tool eliminates fundamental barriers that have held back the adoption of CAE in this sector: the very high cost of conventional 3D electromagnetic software, and the long simulation times involved. Called Concerto AS, the new software package is a variant of Vector Fields' new high frequency Concerto toolsuite. It will simulate a coaxial RF connector in a few seconds, and costs around $5,000/seat. With this response speed, users can perform searching 'what if?' investigations in a matter of minutes to create optimal designs, cutting design costs, time to market, and often manufacturing costs as well.

New name reflects product - To mark a new stage in company growth and acknowledge enhanced market opportunities, Catalyst Systems Corporation today announced that it is changing the company's name to OpenMake Software. The company was founded in 1995, and its flagship product, OpenMake, was created to help software development teams simplify and automate the build-to-release process.

Distributor of the year - Schaffner, has pronounced Farnell to be the winner of their distributor of the year award for 2007. The award recognises sales performance and the close cooperation between the two companies on the introduction of new products, in which Farnell has played a key role in the all important design phase. Farnell offers the latest technology to Design Engineers in Britain and Ireland via the Internet and e-marketing tools.

Second generation fieldbus barrier improves perrformance - MTL have released a 'second generation' design of their Fieldbus Barrier wiring hub. The 9311-FB is a field-mounted unit that provides intrinsically safe spur connections from a non-intrinsically safe trunk, for connection to Foundation Fieldbus H1 or Profibus-PA field devices. When installed in a suitable enclosure, the 9311-FB can be installed in Zone 1 (gas) or Zone 2 (dust) hazardous areas, with the trunk wiring implemented using suitably protected cable and increased safety (Ex e) connection facilities. Each unit supports four intrinsically safe spurs which may be connected to FISCO or 'Entity' certified fieldbus devices in a Zone 1 or Zone 0 hazardous area. The spurs are short-circuit protected and each unit includes an optional

High performance fibre-optic pyrometers - The new Convir FLA series of fibre-optic infrared temperature sensors from Calex, provide a real step forward in terms of performance and accessibility over the existing FL models. Their wider temperature range adds extra flexibility while their new USB interface allows for faster, simpler configuration and extra data logging/graph plotting functionality. These new fibre-optic units are ideal for applications where traditional temperature sensors are unsuitable, for example near induction heaters, in vacuums or in areas with high ambient temperatures.

ISDN adapter connects industrial devices - Westermo Data Communications has released an industrial ISDN terminal adapter, developed to connect remote industrial measurement/monitoring devices over this existing high speed (up to 128 kbit/s) communications network. Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) is a circuit-switched telephone network system, designed to allow digital transmission of voice and data over ordinary telephone copper wires, resulting in better quality and higher speeds than that available with the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN). ISDN is more prevalent than people think with a vast number of companies having ISDN lines without them even knowing. ISDN is preferable to PSTN not only due to the higher data rate, but also the low negotiation/connection time (<1sec).

Measures flow without intrusion into process line - Flow Technology has announced the release of Model µLF-100 Ultrasonic Liquid Flowmeter. The latest in a new series of accurate, reliable and cost-effective ultrasonic flow measurement instruments, it is capable of measuring very low flow rates (down to 94ml/min.) through a small diameter PFA tube. Typical applications for this unit include DI water and chemical solutions in the semiconductor market.

European type level transmitter approved on steam drums - The second generation Eclipse 705, 2-wire Guided Wave Radar of Magnetrol is type approved to the newest European norms for steam drums, EN 12952-11 (water tube boilers) and EN 12953-9 (shell type boilers) as "primary safety" and "secondary safety" device. These norms complete the PED construction guidelines with functional directives, typical for use on steam drums. The Eclipse 705 has been type approved by the Dutch "Stoomwezen", for use on steam drums as a secondary safety device since 2002. As a secondary safety device, Eclipse fulfills all general control functions on the steam drum; such as the controlling of the hot feed water to the boiler. In its function of 'primary safety' device, Eclipse operates as a safety switch and turns off the boiler in a safe way in case an emergency / dangerous situation occurs. The number of primary and secondary safety devices on a steam drum depends on the type of boiler, the manning of the boiler (permanently manned, semi-manned or not manned at all), its process pressure, capacity, etc...

Solution for biofuels industry - GE Fanuc Automation is working with SunBio Systems, of Santa Clara, CA, to provide biodiesel production systems to companies looking to meet the increased demand for renewable, environmentally-friendly fuel. SunBio Systems' skid-mounted, "quick-start" biodiesel machines range from university grade research and development systems to mid-sized plants that produce up to 15 million gallons of biofuels per year. The SunBio biodiesel machines are based on GE Fanuc controller systems featuring the Series™ 90-30 controller and I/O, Proficy™ Machine Edition automation software, and QuickPanel™ touch screens as operator interfaces.

Triaxial accelerometer has built-in amplifier - The latest triaxial accelerometer from Environmental Equipments has been designed for use in harsh conditions in industrial, automotive and aviation applications. The robust, stainless steel case, single bolt fixing and 4-pin Mil spec connector make the Model 1080 simple to install even where space is at a premium. The wide dynamic range of ±500g, 10mV/g sensitivity across the frequency response extending from 80 Hz to 5 kHz and wide operating temperature range of ­60 to +200 °C suit the 1080 to a variety of applications where high reliability and long life are needed.

New lighting controller enhances range - Firstsight Vision further enhances its comprehensive range of products based around the new GigE machine vision standard with the announcement of the PP520 LED lighting controller with Ethernet interface. The PP520 from Gardasoft Vision provides full control of LED lighting for machine vision applications.

Temperature calibrators augmented - Ametek Calibration Instruments has announced that its range of Jofra ATC dry-block temperature calibrators covering the temperature range from -90°C to 650°C, now offers improved accuracy and stability. Accuracies for both A and B models across the range using the built-in internal reference sensor have been improved. For example, the accuracy for the ATC-156 has improved from +0.19°C to +0.1°C. For ATC B models accuracies down to ±0.04°C is obtainable, when using the reference input. Temperature stability has also been improved on the ATC-156, ATC-157, ATC-320 and ATC-650 models and is now guaranteed for a full twelve-month period, for customer peace of mind.
Model specifications

Two new members - Capley Marker and Omron Electronics have become the latest two companies to become members of the UKIVA (UK Industrial Vision Association). Director, Don Braggins, commented: "The UKIVA is always pleased to see new members, and the activities of both of these companies highlight the diversity of uses of vision in industry, both in terms of markets and applications".

Nanodroplet biospectrophotometry - Lambda Advanced Technology offers a new system for spectrophotometric analysis of 1 µL biological samples. The combination of a fibre-optic coupled micro cell with a range of high performance UV/Vis spectrophotometers provides highly accurate analysis of nanodroplets as small as 70 nL with remarkable reproducibility. The average dynamic range for dsDNA is between 2 ng/µL and 5000 ng/µL, depending on the particular spectrophotometer.

A new age in extreme cable selection - Alpha Wire has launched a new, intuitive online cable selection resource for XTRA-GUARD® extreme performance cables that allows accurate cable selection with interactive guides and cable construction animation sequences. Leading supplier of advanced solutions and service in wire, cable and tubing, Alpha Wire International, has announced the launch of a new website dedicated solely to its range of hazard-matched cables that provide extreme performance for extreme environments. The new website represents an industry first for a website dedicated solely to a single brand of cable. The site offers an intuitive selection aid to help engineers correctly specify cable for their application's extreme environment.

Free 7-day thermal imager trials - Fluke is offering free, no obligation, 7-day trials of its Fluke Ti20 Thermal Imager on a customer's premises. The Ti20 has powerful capabilities to quickly identify potential problems in distribution panels, switchgear, motors and other industrial applications. Easy to use, this Thermal Imager provides fully radiometric images, enabling rapid and safe identification of hot spots, the ability to see very small temperature differences, the capture of images and temperature data for reporting and analysis, and on-screen routing instructions for periodic inspections. The free trial enables the user to demonstrate the benefits his company can gain by identifying faults before they cause failure and loss of production. To sign up for the free 7-day trial of the Fluke Ti20, Click Here!

Acquisition completed - Baldor announced today that it has completed the acquisition of Reliance Electric Company, including Dodge mechanical and Reliance Electric motors, from Rockwell Automation.

More buying! - And while we are on the subject of acquisitions the Intech weekly e-news reports that Siemens AG will pay $3.5 billion to pick up product lifecycle management software provider UGS Corp. and will launch an IPO of automotive engineering unit VDO. The UGS deal will add industrial software for planning, design, and simulation to the automation-technology portfolio of its factory-automation unit, A&D.

New additions to miniature connector range - Harting has expanded its har-mik(r) range of high-density D-type interface connectors with the addition of 14-pole and 36-pole female bellows-type devices.

Solving your Network Problems! Contemporary Controls has published a new technical guide that will prove valuable to every engineer when attempting to take the frustration out of solving network problems. Titled "The ABCs of Ethernet Troubleshooting," this guide asks you 22 common questions to consider when troubleshooting your network. The questions include "Do the link LEDs indicate proper cable connections?" or "Are you connecting a single-mode fiber optic device to a multimode fiber optic device?" Other questions refer to auto-negotiation, Auto-MDIX, the DHCP server, TCP/IP for communication, IP addresses, managed switches, and more. The guide also includes two tables: one illustrating T568 Wire Color Variation and the other table showing Ethernet Cabling Parameters.

Outstanding customer satisfaction in semiconductor industry - Keithley Instruments has been recognized for outstanding customer satisfaction by VLSI Research Inc, a global leader in providing independent customer evaluations of semiconductor equipment suppliers. VLSI has awarded Keithley a five star rating among Process Diagnostics companies, the highest possible rating for overall customer satisfaction. The rating is based on a report that measures overall customer satisfaction in the categories of cost of ownership, quality of results, product performance, customer service, technical leadership, and commitment. Keithley is one of only a handful of companies to receive a five star rating for two consecutive years.

High-performance low-noise current sensors with 2100 V RMS isolation - Allegro MicroSystems Europe has introduced two new families of high-performance low-noise Hall-effect current sensors featuring an isolation voltage of 2100 V RMS. Each device is available in ±5 A, ±20 A or ±30 A versions, with corresponding sensitivity levels of 185, 100 or 66 mV/A.

Industrial Ethernet managed switches - Sixnet has just announced the Slim Line (SL) series of Industrial Ethernet Managed Switches, available in five-port (SL-5MS) and eight-port (SL-8MS) models, with up to two fiber optic ports. These switches feature a compact and slim package design that makes them ideal for applications where DIN rail space is a premium. Though they are small, these slim line switches still feature the ultra-reliability and industrial ruggedness that SIXNET is known for.

Manufacturing operations forum - Microsoft and the OMAC Microsoft Manufacturing User Group (MS MUG) hosted the Manufacturing Operations Forum in Redmond, Washington, last week. The forum was attended by approximately 140 people. 60% of attendees represented user companies, with the remaining 40% representing Microsoft and other leading vendors in manufacturing operations.
"The purpose of the forum was to address key issues and opportunities in manufacturing operations," said Chris Colyer, Microsoft's World Wide Industry Director of Plant Operation Strategy. According to attendee feedback presented during the wrap-up session, the forum was a huge success. Erik Goode, the new chair of MS MUG and the Chief Architect, Plant Controls Group at Cargill said, "The forum was an excellent opportunity to highlight Microsoft's commitment to the manufacturing community." Because of the success of the forum, Microsoft and MS MUG hope to turn the forum into an annual event.

Q4 revenue up 14% year on year (15% in Europe) - National Instruments reported record quarterly revenue in the fourth quarter of $181.5 million, a 14 percent increase over Q4 2005. Geographically, revenue in U.S. dollar terms for Q4 2006 compared to Q4 2005 was up 13 percent in the Americas, up 15 percent in Europe and up 13 percent in Asia, equaling overall growth of 14 percent. In local currency terms, revenue was up 12 percent in Europe and up 10 percent in Asia.

Fast and efficient sensing solutions for UL and EN compliant automatic doors - Carlo Gavazzi is offering a complete range of photo sensor solutions to help customers meet the new safety laws covering automatic doors and gates. The portfolio of photo-electric products will enable users to quickly and cost-effectively build compliant controls whilst also benefiting from easier installation and enhanced reliability compared to conventional electro-mechanical, resistive or sprung-wire solutions for safety edge sensing products.

Controlling product consistancy ans manufacturing costa - World leading producer of paints and coatings, Akzo Nobel Decorative Coatings, has installed four Krohne Optimass Coriolis Mass flowmeters to help accurately control product consistency and minimise production costs. These flowmeters control the volume of chemicals that are added to Akzo Nobel,s Crown range of solvent-based paint products at its manufacturing plant in Darwen, Lancashire. Accurately measuring the amount added to the paint is essential to minimising costs and maintaining consistent product quality. The chemicals are contained in stainless steel storage vessels, which are located 70 meters away from the production facility. They are pumped at low pressure through the flowmeters and in to mixing vessels where the paint is manufactured in batches.

Fieldbus growth inexorable - The worldwide market for Fieldbus Solutions in the Process Industries is expected to grow at a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 22.3% over the next five years acording to a study from ARC. The market was greater than $831 million in 2006 and is forecasted to be over $2,279 million in 2011, according to a new ARC Advisory Group study.
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