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Technology Considered
2009 Flow Control Innovation Awards Nominees
 
   
 
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When placing your votes for the 2009 Flow Control Innovation Awards, you will have the opportunity to automatically enter a random drawing to win a $199 Apple iPhone 3G gift card. The gift card covers the current retail price of an 8GB iPhone 3G, or you can use it for any other product in the Apple Online Store or any Apple Retail Store. The iPhone 3G features GPS, support for Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync, and the new App Store. And just like the original iPhone, it combines a cell phone, a widescreen iPod, and an Internet device into a single sleek handheld.


Photo courtesy of Apple (www.apple.com)
The Flow Control Innovation Awards program is designed to recognize industry’s most compelling advances in fluid handling technology, showcasing new product releases that have debuted on the open market on or after Jan. 1, 2008. Earlier this year, Flow Control issued an open call for Innovation Awards nominations, and here we provide the finalists for this year’s Innovation Awards program. We ask you to evaluate the following products and vote for the technologies you believe to be the most innovative. You can vote for up to five products. As an incentive to vote for this year’s Innovation Awards, we are offering all voters the opportunity to enter a random drawing to win an Apple iPhone 3G gift card (see sidebar for details). The voting deadline is Aug. 3, 2009.

List of Nominees:
ABB Instrumentation - Advanced Diamond Technologies - American Sensor Technologies - A.W. Chesterton - Brooks Instrument - Burkert Fluid Control Systems - Cameron, Measurement Systems Division - COX Instruments - Digmesa AG - ECHO Process Instrumentation - ElectraTherm - ELIS PLZEN - Emerson Process Mgmt, Fisher Controls - Emerson Process Mgmt, Micro Motion Division - Emerson Process Mgmt, Rosemount Measurement Division - Endress+Hauser - ENERGYneering Solutions Inc - Engineered Software Inc - Equilibar LLC - Exact Flow - Flomotion Systems - Flow Dynamics - Flow Technology - Flowserve Flow Control Division - Fox Thermal Instruments - GE Sensing & Inspection Technologies - GF Piping Systems - Grundfos Pumps Corp - INKnet Systems Inc - KROHNE Inc - Kurz Instruments Inc - McMillan Company - Pulsafeeder Inc - Rotork Controls Inc - Sage Metering - Schneider Electric - Sensortechnics Inc - Spirax Sarco Inc - Sierra Instruments - Spraying Systems Co - Tyco Flow Control - Universe Machine Corp


OriMaster Orifice DP Flowmeter
By ABB Instrumentation
www.abb.com

ABB Instrumentation’s OriMaster DP flowmeter is a one-piece unit that includes both the orifice plate and a differential-pressure meter. It comes fully factory configured and pressure tested, solving many of the problems associated with sizing, selection, installation and operation of conventional orifice-plate installations. The flowmeter comes in two versions — one for volumetric readings (OriMaster V) and the other for mass flow (OriMaster M).

The OriMaster eliminates the need for users to source and install a separate manifold, transmitter and impulse piping, typically cutting the cost of installation and commissioning by up to 50 percent. The flowmeter’s short integral impulse paths simplify installation. By eliminating up to 80 percent of the potential leak points, it greatly reduces both fugitive emissions (at threaded connections and compression fittings) and also the metering errors caused by such leakage.


Installing the OriMaster is simplified by its wafer design orifice carrier assembly, enabling it to be fitted into an existing space between standard pipe flanges with minimal disruption to the surrounding pipework.


Both the volumetric and mass-flow versions of the flowmeter have HART communications. The mass-flow version has an additional option of Profibus PA, Foundation Fieldbus or Modbus communications.


Vote for ABB Instrumentation

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UNCD Mechanical Seal Faces
By Advanced Diamond Technologies, Inc.
www.thindiamond.com

Advanced Diamond Technologies’ UNCD Faces are standard carbide faces for mechanical seals that are coated with ADT’s brand name ultrananocrystalline diamond. UNCD, a phase-pure diamond film, was originally invented at the U.S. Department of Energy’s Argonne National Laboratory, leveraging over $10 million in basic research.

ADT’s innovation with UNCD Faces is to provide diamond film that is exceptionally smooth, while maintaining the flatness of the original silicone carbide face. UNCD can be manufactured so smooth that it can be run against soft carbon counterfaces. In addition, UNCD offers excellent chemical inertness and has high thermal conductivity.


ADT offers UNCD Faces affordably because of its achievements in developing a scalable and highly reproducible manufacturing platform. This gets diamond out of the realm of being a precious gem and into the realm of being a performance engineering material.


Seal companies have been searching for a way for over a decade to take advantage of the outstanding benefits of diamond. The innovation of UNCD Faces is that UNCD is phase-pure diamond that is grown on the surface of a silicone carbide face. Unlike diamond like carbons (DLCs) or conversion coating processes, UNCD offers the superlative properties of real diamond, which is much harder than DLCs or silicone carbide.


Application Note: Seals incorporating UNCD Faces were named to this year’s R&D magazine R&D 100 list. In partnership with John Crane Inc. and Argonne National Lab, the UNCD Faces solution was rigorously tested as part of the award-winning solution.

Vote for Advanced Diamond Technologies

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AST46HA Explosion-Proof Pressure Transmitter

By American Sensor Technologies
www.astsensors.com

American Sensor Technologies’ AST46HA media-isolated, explosion-proof pressure transmitter with digital compensation and single-seal approval features real time thermal compensation and linearity correction, enabling it to excel in dynamic temperature environments where ordinary sensors fail. By applying AST’s Krystal Bond Technology as the sensing element base, the AST46HA offers top performance in the most severe temperature conditions. While oil-filled sensor technologies can experience freezing or boiling at extreme temperatures, the AST46HA sensing element utilizes a one-piece stainless steel, non-oil filled sensor design offering continuous operation at temperatures that cause other sensors to fail. The combination of advanced silicon strain gages and a thick diaphragm give the sensor a low operating strain, long-term stability, and excellent proof and burst pressure capability.

The AST46HA is ANSI 12.27.01-2003 Single Seal approved for use on pressure equipment in Canada without a secondary pressure containment device. The approval is a cost-saving feature for products shipped to and used in Canada. Programmed in temperature chambers over multiple pressure and temperature points, the active electronics digitally compensate for each sensor’s unique characteristics and correct for errors.


Vote for American Sensor Technologies

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170 Slurry Seal
By A.W. Chesterton
www.chesterton.com/slurry

A.W. Chesterton’s 170 Slurry Seal is a shaft-based device with a nonclogging pressure-plate design. Seal faces are hydraulically balance, with the springs located entirely outside the seal. The seal is also designed to operate with no flush water. Other seals on the market that offer the ability to operate with no flush water, generally have springs located inside the seal, presenting the potential for clogging. The seal offers consistent flushless operation up to 40 percent solids.

Application Note: The 170 Slurry Seal was recently employed in an application that was experiencing a mean time between failure (MTBF) of one month prior to installation. After replacing its existing seal with the 170 Slurry Seal, the user has increased its MTBF from one month to 24 months and counting. The entire plant is now replacing each seal that fails with the 170. Further, it has improved the environmental friendliness of the application by eliminating the use of flush water.

Vote for A.W. Chesterton

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B-Series Mass Flow Controller
By Brooks Instrument
www.brooksinstrument.com

Brooks Instrument’s B-Series Gas Mass Flow Controller is a fully RoHS-compliant device designed to minimize all sources of gas flow inaccuracy, providing exceptional stability, robust resistance to flow variation due to pressure and temperature fluctuations, and extremely low valve leak-by. Unique advanced diagnostics permit you to verify device performance in-situ, and the on-board user interface makes changing and monitoring parameters a snap. In addition, the B-Series can simplify and reduce the cost of gas panels by minimizing the need for separate pressure regulators, pressure transducers, and the associated mounting hardware.


Built on a standard 1.125-inch wide platform with a powerful user interface and display, the B-Series provides a compact flow measurement and control solution, eliminating the need for costly temperature and pressure control devices and systems. The B-Series incorporates sophisticated internal self-diagnostic routines that continuously check and report the health of the device. An easy-to-use service port provides additional diagnostic capability, minimizing the need to remove the mass flow controller from service.


Application Note: Advanced thin-film applications in the semiconductor, compound semiconductor and solar cell industries require precise flow measurement and control of the chemicals being delivered during the manufacturing process. The films being created on the semiconductor are very thin, most times < 1 micron (10-6 meters).

The B-Series is a good fit in such applications because it measures line pressure and adjusts the control valve to virtually eliminate actual flow and flow signal variation due to pressure fluctuations. The output of every B-Series mass flow controller is characterized over the full operating temperature range, providing superior measurement and control accuracy regardless of process or ambient temperature conditions. The B-Series MFC is calibrated using traceable primary standards to better than 0.7 percent of rate, with typical response times of 400 msec and up to 100-to-1 turndown.


Vote for Brooks Instrument

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Element Globe Control Valve/
Positioner Type 8802
By Burkert Fluid Control Systems
www.burkert.com

Burkert Fluid Control Systems’ Element Globe Control Valve/Positioner Type 8802 features an integrated clean design for optimal use in hygienic environments.


Designed to be as clean as the environment it is used in, the integral nature of positioner function, valve and actuator create no unsealed open areas for contamination to find safe harbor and spread itself back into your sterile area. It features flat, cleanable surfaces with external seals.


Internal control air channel between the positioner and actuator keeps the package clean and compact. The internal control air routing sources the spring chamber with clean control air to avoid outside water and debris. Pilot valve vented housing prevents condensation inside the control unit as air is exhausted through a pressure relief valve, maintaining positive pressure on the electronics.


Actuator stiction has been reduced to 1/3 of previous levels. Actuator lifecycle has increased by more than double due to balanced and reduced friction design. Actuator spring chamber with clean control air to all incoming air is routed through an integral air supply filter, which is removable for cleaning and reuse. Automatic tune for positioner function aligns the valve and positioner for control service, completing calibration without human intervention.


Vote for Burkert Fluid Control Systems

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NuFlo Scanner 2000 microEFM

By Cameron, Measurement Systems Division
www.c-a-m.com

Cameron’s Scanner 2000 microEFM is an economical chart recorder replacement, a flow computer and a stand-alone totalizer. A member of Cameron’s NuFlo and Barton Scanner Family of Flow Computers, the Scanner 2000 was developed on a unique hardware platform that requires very little power and a user interface/configuration software program, ModWorX, that comes free with the unit.

The most significant two features of the Scanner 2000 are the unit’s versatility and adaptability. These features support plans, no matter how big or small, to transition into electronic flow measurement, automate flow control and integrate into existing SCADA systems.


In 2008 Cameron invested heavily in R&D and commercial resources to design and launch the expanded Scanner 2000 model (March 2008), introduce a weatherproof enclosure option (March 2009), and achieve Measurement Canada approval (Feb 2009).


Expansion Board:
• Additional turbine meter input provides simultaneous gas, liquid and oil measurement
• Additional analog output provides easier integration into existing SCADA systems as a plug-and-play replacement and/or alternative to existing units
• Analog input provides compensated gas turbine meter measurement (AGA7)
• ATEX certification enables access to worldwide markets

Weatherproof Enclosure:
• Solar power option provides customized solutions for producers located in nonhazardous, remote areas that require uninterrupted service in spite of cold winter climates
• USB communications port enables easy connection to laptops and eliminates the need for an RS-485 converter cable

Measurement Canada Approval
• Achieving a benchmark of accuracy and integrity supports the needs of Canadian and other worldwide markets

Vote for Cameron, Measurement Systems Division

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LoFlo Series Turbine Flowmeters with Integral Flow Computer
By COX Instruments
www.cox-instruments.com

COX Instruments’ LoFlo Series precision turbine incorporates an integrally mounted COX 4080 flow computer. This flow measurement system provides enhanced accuracy and linearity in blending, batching and other demanding industrial applications, including chemical injection. It is designed for measuring flows as low as 0.006 gallons-per-minute (GPM) and offers high accuracy, fast response to flowrate changes and simplicity of construction with few parts. Paired with the COX 4080 flow computer to provide total flow compensation to enhance flow measurement accuracy while linearizing over the full range of the flowmeter.

Outstanding operating characteristics:
• LoFlow Series meter utilizes an innovative “blade-averaging” technique to enhance low-flow resolution
• COX 4080 flow computer incorporates enhanced digital signal processing (DSP) technology, allowing exceptional signal characterization and fast response to output dynamic data in engineering units, which allows end users to employ one device for multiple signal outputs
• Configurable interface software allows fluid selection, configuration of outputs and data logging
• Repeatability to +/-0.25 percent of reading, allowing for an overall accuracy of +/-0.5 percent

Vote for COX Instruments

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Laser Flow-Sensor

By Digmesa AG
www.digmesa.com

Digmesa AG’s patented liquid flow sensor technology measures flow using a laser perpendicularly oriented to the media flowing through a straight glass tube. This nonintrusive sensor concept is capable of measuring flowrates in the 1-20ml/min range with response times of ~20ms and accuracies better than 1 percent full scale. The flow sensor is able to measure various types of water- or alcohol-based liquids without the need for recalibration after it is factory calibrated.

Application Note: During integrated circuit (IC) manufacturing in the semiconductor industry, photo resists and other chemicals have to be dispensed on the surface of a thin slice of semiconductor material, typically a silicon wafer. The new Laser Flow-Sensor is used to monitor the dispensed volume in such applications. Every produced wafer has an average of 30 layers requiring 30 manufacturing cycles, with each cycle consisting of multiple process steps of coating, exposure, developing and etching, and possibly doping. Very advanced wafers use up to 45 cycles. Every manufacturing cycle increases the cost and value of the wafer. For the critical layers, the last 10, it is very important to ensure the exact amount of chemical is dispensed, so a monitoring device is needed.

Future plans will aim to reduce the costly photo resist process, which figures to make the need for a flow sensor even more critical. The Laser Flow-Sensor is designed to overcome such disadvantages.

Vote for Digmesa AG

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Flow Hunter with Xducer 06 Ultrasonic Flowmeter
By ECHO Process Instrumentation, Inc.
www.echopi.com

ECHO Process Instrumentation’s Flow Hunter electronics with the Xducer 06 transducer offer open-channel ultrasonic flow measurement accuracy of +/- 0.01 percent of measured range. The meter is designed for measuring flow in flumes and weirs with an extremely reliable output for billing and monitoring purposes.

The Flow Hunter electronics with the Xducer 06 sensor operate at 80kHz, which is double the industry standard of 40kHz. This is important because the resolution of a transducer is dependent on wavelength; the higher the frequency, the smaller the wavelength and the smaller resolution of the measurement. Thus, a 40kHz transducer can only resolve down to three millimeters, whereas the 80kHz transducer is better than one millimeter.

ECHO’s ultrasonic technology is based on radial-mode piezoelectric resonators with unique fascia material transducer technology. This produces an echo pulse with no side lobe energy loss, which is an inherent weakness to traditional thickness mode transmission. Also, the technology employs automatic gain control to ensure that the electronic timing circuits see the same signal amplitude regardless of a strong or weak echo.

Industrial acoustical plant noise can often produce sub-harmonic frequencies that overwhelm ultrasonic level transmitters. Flow Hunter uses electronic filtering and precision rectification of echoes at exactly the same frequency as the transmitted signal to eliminate all noise interference.

Vote for ECHO Process Instrumentation

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ElectraTherm Green Machine
By ElectraTherm, Inc.
www.electratherm.com

ElectraTherm’s Waste Heat Generator (WHG) captures waste heat from almost any geothermal or industrial source to generate fuel-free, emission-free electricity. Built on a skid, it’s both modular and mobile, meaning it’s easy to transport and install as a single unit or in a series. Automated control systems permit unattended operation, resulting in low operation and maintenance costs.

ElectraTherm combines traditional components with patented, cutting-edge technology to create electricity from waste heat. ElectraTherm power systems use a closed-loop organic Rankine cycle (ORC) to create pressure by boiling EPA-approved chemical working fluids into gas. The gas expands in a one-way system and turns a patented Twin Screw Expander, which drives a generator to ultimately put out electricity.

Historically, ORCs incorporating turbo-expanders have not been commercially viable in sizes less than 1MW. By replacing turbo-expanders with ElectraTherm’s patented, robust, low-cost Twin Screw Expander, users benefit from short payback on systems that provide unattended operation and negligible maintenance.

Application Note: In mid-2008, ElectraTherm successfully installed its first commercial Waste Heat Generator at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas. The ElectraTherm Green Machine makes electricity from residual industrial heat that has, until now, gone to waste. With the assistance and cooperation of the world-renowned SMU Geothermal Lab, and the Campus Planning and Plant Operations Department, SMU is hosting the Green Machine as a demonstration site. The ElectraTherm Green Machine employs minimal heat to generate fuel-free, emissions-free electricity at a very low cost — three to four cents per kW/hr during payback period, under a penny per kW/hr thereafter.


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Ultrasonic Flowmeter Flomic FL 3005
By ELIS PLZEN a.s.
www.elis.cz

ELIS PLZEN’s FLOMIC FL3005 battery-powered type of ultrasonic flowmeter with the ultrasonic probes fitted directly into the piping presents a significant innovation in the flow measurement technique. The meters do not need any external power; all their power requirements are provided by a Li Battery 3.6V with a lifetime of four years. But the main advantage is that the flowmeter does not require a spoolpiece part of the pipeline to provide a measurement. The flowmeter supports up to nominal diameter DN 80” (2000 mm) of existing pipeline. The theoretical calibration is made after installation.

The FLOMIC FL3005 is one of the first battery-powered ultrasonic flowmeters that enables operators to remotely select data parameters such as instantaneous flowrate and total volume passed through the pipeline, as well as archive measured data in specified time intervals in the internal meter memory unit.


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Fisher Control-Disk Valve
By Emerson Process Mgmt, Fisher Controls
www.gotofisher.com

Emerson Process Management’s Fisher Control-Disk rotary valve offers excellent throttling performance. An equal percentage flow characteristic provides an improved throttling range comparable to that of a segmented ball valve. This improved capability allows users to control closer to the target set point, regardless of process disturbances, which results in a reduction in process variability.

The valve body meets PN 10 through PN 40, CL150, and CL300 ratings. Face-to-face and raised-face dimensions meet EN 593, API 609, and MSS-SP68 standards. Line centering clips provide for versatility to mount and align the same wafer style valve body in different piping configurations (ASME and EN ratings).


The Control-Disk rotary valve features an eccentrically mounted disk with either soft or metal seal, providing capability for enhanced shutoff. The interchangeable sealing technology allows for the same valve body to accept both soft and metal
seals. The actuator sizing and selection process is improved by simply reading a table for information.

Testimonial: “I was having trouble with my temperature control on several critical loops. Because the temperature control loops could not keep up with process upsets, I ran the risk of having a possible safety alert condition. After installing two Fisher Control-Disk Valves, my temperature control loops react to upset conditions quickly and accurately, removing any safety concerns and allowing me to run closer to a higher set point and gain more output.” – UK-Based Chemical Manufacturer


Vote for Emerson Process Mgmt, Fisher Controls

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2-Wire Coriolis Flow & Density Meter
By Emerson Process Mgmt, Micro Motion Division
www.micromotion.com

Emerson Process Management’s Micro Motion 2-Wire Coriolis meters are loop-powered Coriolis measurement devices that deliver the same high accuracy and repeatable measurement performance as equivalent four-wire Micro Motion Coriolis meters. With compact, integral transmitter housing, Micro Motion two-Wire Coriolis meters require no separate power cabling and deliver multi-variable measurement with a single mA output and HART compatibility for accessing other output variables and diagnostic information.

Historically, Coriolis meters have always required a minimum of four wires – two used for power connection and two for signal transmission. Because of these power requirements, loop-powered Coriolis meters have not been previously thought possible as power is required for the constant vibration of tubes and significant signal processing, in addition to the output of process variables to the control system.


Emerson’s Micro Motion 2-Wire Coriolis meters were developed based on considerable research and sophisticated optimization of the Coriolis sensor and electronics efficiency that allows meter operation with as little as 0.8W of power while delivering excellent measurement performance.


Testimonial: “It took less than one hour on mechanical and electrical installation time; Saved 8 hours of power wiring, an estimated $1500 in cost (conduit + cable).” - Global Chemical Company


Vote for Emerson Process Mgmt, Micro Motion Division

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Rosemount 5300 Series Guided Wave Radar w/ Cryogenic Seals
By Emerson Process Mgmt, Rosemount Measurement Division
www.rosemount.com

Emerson Process Management, Rosemount Measurement Division’s Rosemount 5300 is the new generation two-wire level and interface guided wave radar with the capability of longer measuring ranges, measurement of very-low dielectrics media even with single-lead probes, and enhanced ability to handle disturbing factors. The new cryogenic seal version enables accurate, reliable level measurement of condensed and liquefied gasses at very low temperatures (to -196 C) and is ideal for use in process tanks, side chambers, storage tanks and transportation vessels.

The new transmitter seal provides multiple layers of protection using a temperature and pressure barrier in a flexible assembly to handle forces induced by probe movement and temperature variations. A second brazed hermetic, gas-tight seal provides additional protection. The entire assembly is welded into a stainless steel sleeve for total robustness.


The two-wire technology of the Rosemount 5300 enables fast and inexpensive installation. FOUNDATION fieldbus, HART and PlantWeb functionality means the transmitter integrates easily into new or existing control systems. This, in addition to maintenance-free operation, results in a quicker return on investment with overall improved uptime and enhanced safety.


Vote for Emerson Process Mgmt, Rosemount Measurement Division

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Proline Promass I Coriolis Flowmeter
By Endress+Hauser
www.us.endress.com

Endress+Hauser’s second-generation of the Promass I Coriolis flowmeter, the straight single-tube design of the Promass 80/83I, provides the expected Coriolis flowmeter outputs of mass flow, density and temperature, as well as in-line viscosity measurement as an optional output. The advantage of measuring viscosity directly in the process is that it is a true reflection of the process conditions and avoids the delay of taking samples to the lab.


The Promass I second-generation also offers improved specifications and better performance. Made possible by revolutionary upgrades such as dual-mode and modified TMB. The meter is manufactured to comply with the highest hygienic standards of 3A, EHEDG and FDA, making it a good fit for food and beverage applications. The integrated software package allows users to derive measurements of Brix, fat content, suspended solids, Baume and percentage of alcohol.


The meter’s TMB counterbalance system has improved the specifications for both mass flow and zero point stability. It is a fully balanced system with a robust design that is not influenced by external vibration. This means density and general flow conditions can deviate from the reference conditions, and the flowmeter will retain specified accuracy. The system is also resilient to temperature shocks; accuracy maintains 0.1 percent even during cleaning periods.


The Promass I design is also the first commercial Coriolis mass flowmeter using two simultaneously driven resonance frequencies. The dual-mode system can actually pick up separate tube vibrations for the mass flow frequency (600 - 700 Hz), and a different frequency for the viscosity frequency (about 900 Hz) and then filter them and analyze them separately in the electronics.


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Eccentric Venturi Wellhead
By ENERGYneering Solutions, Inc.
www.energyneeringsolutions.com

ENERGYneering Solutions’ Eccentric Venturi Wellhead (EVW) utilizes the time-tested principles of fluid mechanics to accurately monitor volumetric flow through a pipe. Designed specifically for the landfill industry, the EVW measures the flow of landfill gas from a well on a landfill.

The wellhead consists of a custom curved PVC flow constrictor placed inside a length of pipe sufficient for creating laminar flow. The custom-curved piece has pressure-monitoring ports at the apex of its curve as well as on the upstream side of the flow. Based on the principles of the Venturi effect, the wellhead constricts the flow of gas through a pipe, creating a pressure differential between the actual flow and the constricted flow. Through many variations and designs, the engineers at ENERGYneering Solutions were able to develop a mathematical model for the pressure differential that accurately calculates volumetric flow through the entire range of flows typically seen in the industry. In addition, the wellhead has been proven to be compatible with any of the commonly used monitoring instruments in the industry today.


Application Note: Early reviews of the EVW have been positive. With installations at multiple landfills around the country, all of the customers have commented on the lack of condensate buildup in the wellhead. In most cases, the EVW has been placed horizontally at the outlet of the well. As the landfill gas is pulled from the well with a constant vacuum, it passes through the EVW, allowing an accurate flow measurement to be taken. In a landfill that might have as many as eighty wells, the maintenance required to empty orifice plates of condensate can become a full-time job. With the EVW, this has been eliminated.


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PIPE-FLO Professional 2009
By Engineered Software Inc.
www.eng-software.com

Engineered Software’s PIPE-FLO is designed to provide hydraulic analysis of piping systems — showing the interaction of pumps, compressors, pipelines, valves, and other components. General program highlights include the ability to create system lineups and compare different operation setups; the integrated pump selection module including catalog data from 100-plus pump manufacturers’ catalogs. PIPE-FLO also has a viewer program that enables the sharing of system design files.

PIPE-FLO 2009 highlights include an Operating Cost Calculator for system optimization and finding the best pump configuration. This tool aids engineers in green and energy-efficient system design. Customizable FLO-Sheets allow users to create professional presentations, and the software’s Control Valve Global Adjustments tool enables users to automatically change the position of control valves and set flowrates for easier lineup creation.

Testimonial: “We use the software mainly on expansions to verify pencil calculations and identify any dead zones. We analyze and troubleshoot large flow networks so the software’s value manifests in a better understanding of our complete piping system. PIPE-FLO does what it claims, it works and never crashes, and is pretty intuitive to use.” – Loren Loerzel, project engineer for ADM.


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High-Precision Vacuum Control Regulator
By Equilibar LLC
www.equilibar.com

Equilibar’s Vacuum Control Regulator is designed to provide vacuum stability through various flowrates and pressure ranges.

The regulator works by creating a force balance on a diaphragm directly over the orifices. The vacuum pump, connected to the regulator outlet, is not able to pull the Inlet pressure lower than the reference pressure due to the sealing effect of the diaphragm. Because Equilibar uses a direct sealing diaphragm with no friction or inertia, the response times are much quicker than with mechanical vacuum control systems.

The Equilibar Vacuum Regulator includes a highly sensitive setpoint regulator to conveniently generate this setpoint pressure. Taken together, these two regulators provide highly sensitive and stable vacuums equaling the simplicity and convenience of the traditional products. But, traditional spring-type vacuum regulators have much larger pressure variability (often called “droop”) with changing flowrates.


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Flow Gator Flow Transfer Standard Calibrator
By Exact Flow
www.exactflow.com

Exact Flow’s Flow Gator FTS calibrator, with extended-range dual-manifold capability, is intended for in-line calibration and validation of field-based meters using the actual process liquid. It is compatible with any meter with an electronic output or visual indicator. Rugged, lightweight and compact, the Flow Gator incorporates hand-held electronics, eliminating the need to carry a laptop computer into the field. The accompanying calibration software is intuitive and menu-driven, enabling end-users to create calibration data files. The data files can be uploaded to a PC for storing historical calibration data. Users can also download reports showing the calibration data points for the meter under test and compare to previous calibrations. The Flow Gator can also generate printable calibration data sheets in volumetric or mass units.

Application Note: The Flow Gator and dual-rotor manifold are being used by the Air Force to calibrate flowmeters used to measure jet fuel and hydraulic fluids on aircraft. They are currently deployed to several Air Force bases.


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FlowWIZ ML250 Battery Powered Wireless Magmeter
By Flomotion Systems
www.flomotionsystems.com

Flomotion Systems’ LOWIZTM is a battery-powered magnetic flowmeter equipped with a four-band modem capable of communicating worldwide through the GPRS protocol. Utilizing packet GPRS allows the user to obtain data logged information at economical cellular system usage charges.

The same long-life battery operated converter (up to 10-year battery life) can be used with all ISOMAG standard sensors, including flanged, wafer and insertion. No specially configured sensors are required. In addition, eliminating electronics in the sensors greatly increases the long-term reliability in buried or submerged pipe monitoring applications.

The flowmeters are OIML R49 approved, verifying accurate operation over a wide range of flowrates. With the wireless communication option, it is now possible to monitor flow and report data at hard-to-reach locations such as remote reservoirs.
In addition, flows can now be monitored in a water district distribution system where there is usually a problem obtaining AC power.


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Automotive Body Leakage Tester
By Flow Dynamics
www.flow-dynamics.com

Flow Dynamics’ Automotive Body Leak Tester (BLT) is designed to perform static body air leakage tests on vehicles in assembly plants. This portable and self-contained unit enables automotive manufacturers to test their vehicle designs in accordance with recognized industry standards. The BLT can also be used to test body components, such as doors and windows, with the use of custom adapters. A variable-speed motor attached to a blower produces airflow. The rate of flow is measured using a mass airflow sensor and displayed in Standard Cubic Feet per Minute (SCFM).

Outstanding operating characteristics:
• Portable unit allows testing of vehicle designs in assembly plants
• Determine rate of air leakage into and out of the cabin under both pressure and
vacuum conditions
• Test body components such as doors and windows with the use of custom adapters

Application Note: The Automotive Body Leakage Tester is General Motors’ standard for auto body leak testing. The technology is used at GM plants worldwide.


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Gecko Flow Transfer Standard
By Flow Technology
www.ftimeters.com

Flow Technology’s Gecko portable flow transfer standard provides on-site flowmeter calibration. The system’s EZ-LINK portable interface box and EZ-CAL menu-driven software enable inline comparison calibrations with the unit under test. Designed for both liquid and gas applications, Gecko is an alternative to costly primary standard calibrators for in-house calibrations or verifications. Overall system accuracy is dependent on several factors, including master flowmeter calibration, repeatability and primary standard accuracy, as well as temperature/pressure sensor accuracies. This fundamentally allows the users to tailor the accuracy of the system to meet their needs through the level of master sensors they choose to utilize. The Gecko system can be installed into an existing application utilizing the flow source and actual conditions of the liquid or gas.

A bypass system can be built into the application for ease of installing the master meter with flow straighteners for calibration of the unit under test (UUT). Once the calibration is complete, the master flowmeter can be replaced with a recommended spool piece. The bypass approach maximizes accuracy while minimizing expensive downtime in production schedules. Additional input capabilities for other flowmeter technologies to be used as master flowmeters have been incorporated. This gives the metrologist the ability to choose the flowmeter design best suited for the process. Custom carts, stands and flow loops with multiple master flowmeters are also available.

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Limitorque QX Quarter-Turn Electronic Valve Actuator
By Flowserve Flow Control Division
www.flowserve.com

Flowserve Flow Control’s Limitorque QX is a quarter-turn, smart electronic valve actuator featuring an industry-first advanced brushless DC motor, which is more accurate and durable than previous designs. The QX design includes an innovative handwheel positioned parallel to the LCD screen, making it easier to use and more compact.

Unique to the industry, the Limitorque QX has a brushless actuator DC motor design that lasts longer than conventional motors and enables more accurate positioning while permitting a global range of voltages (single-phase and three-phase ACV and DCV) to be connected without modification. Brushless DC motors eliminate sparks, reduce mechanical and electrical noise, and dissipate heat better than motors with brushes.

The placement of the QX handwheel permits ease of manual setup and operation and the ability to be installed in areas with limited space.

Application Note: The QX was selected by one end-user for use as the actuator of choice for installation onto small two-inch to four-inch plastic ball valves and three-inch to 10-inch butterfly valves. Its non-intrusive features permit control configuration via an LCD screen. The brushless DC motor allows both single- and three-phase supply voltages at the site to be supported without changing motors.

The QX is lightweight and compact, easily meeting the dimensional requirements for placement of the valve and electronic actuator combination. The QX supports Modbus, a two-wire network digital control that facilitates control of the more than 700 actuators at the site over a Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system.


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FT2 Flow Meter and FT2 View Software
By Fox Thermal Instruments
www.foxthermalinstruments.com

Fox Thermal Instruments’ Model FT2 provides smart, real-time measurement of flow and temperature and supports a range of communication protocols, including RS422/RS485-Modbus, ProfibusDP, DeviceNet and Ethernet.

FT2 View Software allows users to change meter configuration, collect process data or view measurements from a PC or control station. A Palm PDA interface provides similar functionality for “walkaround” monitoring of process conditions.

The instrument directly measures mass flowrate of air and gases, and provides isolated 4-20 mA and pulse outputs for flow rate, as well as a 4-20 mA output for process gas temperature. Mass flowrate and totalized flow, elapsed time, process gas temperature and alarms are displayed on the meter’s 2x16 character backlit display. The display is also used in conjunction with the instrument’s configuration panel to program flow and temperature settings, pulse output scaling, pipe area, zero flow cutoff, filtering, diagnostics and alarm condition limits.

Testimonial: “We use the FOX Model FT2 flowmeter with Modbus communications for measuring our industrial gases. I recently found myself in some ‘soup’ due to the gross inaccuracies we were experiencing with two other manufacturer’s flowmeters. Although I had sent the other meters back to the factory for repair and recalibration, they were never able to achieve the measurement accuracy we require for our processes and services. With an urgent need to get it right and get it done quickly, I installed a FOX FT2 flowmeter and all of our problems went away, period. Now when we have a high-performance application, we turn to Fox for its precision instruments and flow expertise.” — Scott Terdic, Program Manager, U.S. Air Liquide


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Sentinel Liquid Custody Transfer (LCT) Ultrasonic Flowmeter
By GE Sensing & Inspection Technologies
www.gesensinginspection.com

GE Sensing & Inspection Technologies’ Sentinel LCT is a highly accurate ultrasonic flowmeter designed for custody-transfer measurement of crude oil and refined oil products. The Sentinel LCT, with its “install and forget” reliability, is designed to make custody-transfer measurement easier than traditional technologies, requiring less human intervention for maintenance and offering less room for operator error.

Sentinel LCT has a number of unique features that make the meter completely independent of viscosity changes. Whether measuring gasoline or crudes of varying viscosities, the flow measurement is not affected by viscosity or temperature changes. This not only saves time, but also the expense of a proving run. Sentinel LCT uses advanced diagnostics to perform continuous self-checks. A built-in flow computer allows for pressure, temperature and density corrections according to API 11.1.

Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) testing of flow scenarios ranged from laminar flows typical of very heavy crudes to highly turbulent flows seen in gasoline and LPG applications. CFD simulations provided the optimal path configuration called the Robust Path Configuration (patent pending) that was proved in a calibration loop, and the results are now filed as a GE patent. Sentinel LCT meets 0.15 percent accuracy with an absolute minimum sensitivity to changing process fluid viscosities.


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Signet 4150 Turbidimeter
By GF Piping Systems
www.gfpiping.com

GF Piping Systems’ Signet 4150 Turbidimeter features accurate and reliable water quality monitoring and quick-and-easy calibration. Compliant to either EPA 180.1 for North and South America and Asia, or ISO 7027 for service in Europe, the new meter is a good fit for both municipal and industrial applications. With its integral pressure regulator, the 4150 features easy one-unit installation and setup. Typical uses include monitoring for potable water distribution, raw or filtered water, wastewater effluent, and aquatic life support.

Turbidity measurement on the 4150 is accomplished through a 90-degree light, which reflects particles as they flow through the cuvette, providing continuous and accurate online measurement. The unit’s replaceable desiccant pack assures a stable environment for accurate measurement, and a built-in backpressure valve can be adjusted to eliminate bubbles that may cause reading errors.

Without the need for tubing disconnection, calibration can be completed easily in less than five minutes. The inexpensive calibration standard allows for both dry and multiple system calibrations without chemical mixing. After calibration, the 4150 is instantly back online once the glass cuvette is placed into the measuring chamber.

Application Note: The 4150 turbidimeter was recently installed on a microfiltration feed from a wastewater plant to a treatment plant. Competitive units used to take the customer one hour per week to clean. If not cleaned weekly, readings would drift off. After three months in service, the 4150 Turbidimeter has maintained stable readings and has not required any cleaning.

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Grundfos Multi-Stage CR-H Pump
By Grundfos Pumps Corp.
www.grundfos.com

Grundfos’s CR-H horizontal multi-stage in-line pump provides an ANSI dimensional solution that will fit into an existing pump and piping footprint. The CR-H pump offers optimized duty points to maximize pump efficiency and minimize internal wear which lowers energy costs, increases pump life, and reduces maintenance.

High efficiency multi-stage design provides pressure ranges that can be expanded beyond ANSI pump limitations without piping changes. The one-piece cartridge shaft seal offers a simple replacement of the cartridge seal and provides seal access without pump removal or disassembly right on the spot in less than an hour. Compared to traditional ANSI pump seal replacement requiring pump disassembly and realignment, and a minimum of eight hours to complete. CR-H retrofit requires no re-piping and can bolt onto the existing baseplate.

Application Note: A field test truck wash facility required a pump that could produce appropriate flow and pressure to operate the nozzle in a multi-step process, involving hot caustic water and various cleaning/rinsing cycles used to clean the inside of large tanker trucks.

Originally, the pumps specified were traditional ANSI pumps with 100 Hp motors. A review of the application prompted Grundfos to propose that the same duty could be achieved with a CR pump with a 30 Hp motor. The truck wash facility agreed to install the lower Hp model and, amazed that the 30 Hp CR outperformed the 100 Hp model, replaced an additional seven pumps over an eight-month period.


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Ranger Flowmeter LPD Design
By INKnet Systems Inc.
www.link-techinc.com

INKnet Systems’ Ranger Flowmeter LPD Design utilizes hall-effect sensors scanning rotating neodymium magnets to generate a true quaduture output, yielding a sealless design. Each rotation of the mechanism generates 40cc of measured materials and up to 24 pulses per revolution. Pulses are output as a digital signal for a PLC and then packetized information, which is sent out over a CAN Network to a dedicated touch panel. The meter is impervious to pressure changes from five PSI to 4,000 PSI. The unit accommodates a flow range from (1cc) of material per minute to a maximum of 15 gallons per minute.

Tests by an independent consulting firm retained by the US Bureau of Engraving and Printing verified the meter’s accuracy and performance. INKnet’s LPD design is the only meter found to meet the demanding requirements of the Bureau of Engraving and Printing.

Accuracy is .01 percent, with repeatability of .01 percent as well. Peak pressure is 4,500 PSI, with minimum pressure of five PSI. Flowrate ranges from 1/10 of one gallon per day to a maximum of 15 gallons per minute. The meter weighs four pounds, with a footprint of 4.5” x 5.5” x 7”. The meter’s temperature range is -30 F to a maximum of 200 F.

Application Note: One printing corporation implemented the LPD flowmeter system to optimize every press from plant to plant. The upgrade enabled the corporation to analyze its entire operation in real-time on a worldwide basis producing maximum efficiency and generating lower operating costs.


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454FTB CSA Mass Flow Instrument
By KROHNE Inc
www.krohne.com

KROHNE’s OPTIMASS 2000 is a large-diameter Coriolis flowmeter designed for accurate and repeatable bulk measurement in the oil industry. Using the same tried and tested twin straight-tube design of the OPTIMASS 1000, the product range has been extended with the OPTIMASS 2000 to provide accurate measurement for the bulk fluids market.

Available in three sizes — four inches, six inches and 10 inches — the OPTIMASS 2000 wetted parts are constructed of NACE-compliant duplex stainless steel (ANS 31803) and the meter is available with flange ratings up to 1,500 lbs, and flange sizes from four inches to 12 inches.

The OPTIMASS 2000 is CRN-approved and can handle process pressures to 2200 PSIG (150 bar) with a stainless steel outer cylinder that can handle burst pressures in excess of 1,500 PSI (100 bar). Flowrates ranging from 250 lb/min (7000 Kg/h) to 4,400 lb/min (1,2000,000 Kg/h) are easily handled by the OPTIMASS 2000 with a measuring accuracy of 0.1 percent.

Application Note: Shell’s Samia Manufacturing Centre in Ontario is employing an OPTIMASS 2300F S150 Custody Transfer version for a gas flow application with the following process conditions:
• Temperature: 15.0 C
• Pressure: 3,000 kPa
• Density: 884.0 kg/m3
• Viscosity: 0.7 mPa.s
• Flow type: Volume flow
• Flow: 300 m3/h


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454FTB CSA Mass Flow Instrument
By Kurz Instruments Inc
www.kurz-instruments.com

Kurz Instruments’ 454FTB Mass Flow Instrument steps away from a system based on the limiting physical bridge operation to provide a significant improvement in the Wheatstone bridge concept. Digital functions make for a fast, repeatable and flexible thermal dispersion instrument.

Outstanding features include:
• Patented virtual-digital Wheatstone bridge technology (US Patent #7,418,878)
• All possible sensor wiring and element faults are monitored and reported
• Zero-mid-span CEMS compliant
• Temperature range to 500 C
• Nonfouling in most dirty environments

With the addition of extensive built-in diagnostics and data record keeping, the B Series instrumentation includes:
• All sensor, wiring, and electronic circuitry monitored for faults with reporting to display, NE-43 alarms, Modbus, and error log
• Min/max event logs recording the 20 highest and 20 lowest flowrates experienced, the 20 highest and 20 lowest process temperatures experienced, and the 20 highest and 20 lowest temperatures to which the electronics have been subjected
• Two-plus days of 10 second trend memory to allow review of flow events leading up to upsets/events; and powerful internal watchdog and self-test circuitry.

Testimonial: “We switched to Kurz Thermal Mass Flow Instrumentation seven years ago because the product was so much simpler to use and maintain than the normal pitot approach to stack monitoring. Since then we have been extremely pleased with the quality and dependability of the instruments. In fact, so much so that when Kurz came out with the 454FTB Series, I was closely involved in getting these specified for our facilities” — Ron Gaston, Sierra Pacific Industries


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Model 0803 Liquid Flo-Controller
By McMillan Company
www.mcmflow.com

McMillan Company’s Model U803/U804 UHP Liquid Flo-Controllers are automatic digital servo devices that combine a built-in stepper motor-operated diaphragm valve and a miniature Pelton-wheel flow sensor that senses flow in response to a command input signal. Features include fast response time, +/-1 percent full-scale accuracy, +/-0.2 percent full-scale repeatability, no zero drift and very low power requirement (from 1.92 watts on standby to less than five watts maximum).

The U804 features an inline straight-through flow path for installation in existing systems. The U803 features a space-saving design, which allows both the inlet and outlet to be connected on the same side, reducing the effective footprint drastically.

U803 & U804 flow controllers set a new standard in the class of UHP flow controllers with a footprint of 9.14 square inches and a volume of under 36 cubic inches. The micro Pelton wheel literally floats in the liquid flow stream and is supported by a sapphire shaft and bearings. Standard units are capable of precisely measuring flowrates ranging from 7 to 1000 mL/minute. Wetted surfaces include PTFE, sapphire, and perfluoroelastomer seals. The U803 and U804 are the first McMillan flow controllers to offer a very low 7-50 mL/minute range, lowering the minimum controllable flow rate from a previous 15 mL/minute down to seven mL/minute.


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Polyfeeder Emulsion Polymer Blending System
By Pulsafeeder Inc
www.pulsa.com

Pulsafeeder’s Polyfeeder Emulsion Polymer Blending System was specifically developed to handle the diverse mixing requirements of complex emulsion polymers. The Polyfeeder comes equipped with a clear, high-energy mixing chamber followed by a diminishing energy blending cascade, which thoroughly hydrates the molecules without damaging the extending polymer chains. This mixing chamber is clear, allowing quick and easy monitoring of the blending operation.

What truly differentiates the Polyfeeder from other polymer skid systems is its innovative anti-siphon, anti-clog polymer injection lance. This lance effectively separates the polymer from the water interface; the water flow helping to close the valve instead of forcing it open, all the while still being a membrane that can accommodate the occasional solid. This new technology replaces the standard ball and spring checks and eliminates the common pain point of clogging and stuck valves. The Polyfeeder Emulsion Polymer Blending System comes pre-assembled on a rugged stainless steel frame and is available with your choice of a solenoid, gear and progressive-cavity neat polymer feed pump.


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CVA – Control Valve Actuator
By Rotork Controls Inc
www.rotork.com

Rotork Controls’ electric, non-intrusive CVA control-valve actuators provide a major technological advance in precise operation, HMI capabilities, and fail-to-position protection.

The actuators are available in linear and quarter-turn actions and are suitable for a range of control-valve applications throughout the plant. The new actuators eliminate the need for costly air supplies and are easily integrated into most process control environments, including those that use HART and Foundation Fieldbus, as well as other digital communication protocols.

The actuators provide precise control-valve operation with repeatability and resolution performance at <0.1 percent of full scale. In addition, they include, as a standard feature, wireless Bluetooth communication technology that can be used for quick-and-easy actuator setup and adjustment.

Precise actuator performance is achieved by using “dual sensor technology.” This patented control technology has non-contacting 12-bit encoders used for sensing motor speed as well as the exact output position of the actuator. The dual sensors, coupled with a high-speed processor and proprietary control algorithms, deliver extremely high performance.

Application Note: An Arizona water treatment plant is using the CVA to control the flow of reagent into a reverse osmosis facility. The CVA provides an improvement in accuracy over the previous actuators, which were not able to provide control of valve travel tighter than 5 percent. The CVA’s high accuracy of 0.1 percent helps reduce waste and improve efficiency.


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Sage Prime Thermal Mass Flowmeter
By Sage Metering
www.sagemetering.com

Sage Metering’s Sage Prime is a Thermal Mass Flow Meter with dedicated features for the emerging carbon credit market. The insertion-style format easily installs in a digester gas, biogas or landfill gas application, and has an easy-to-read, OLED Display (readable in direct sunlight). The product features ongoing diagnostics and, in particular, the ability to validate the calibration in the field. The flowmeter, which draws under 2.4 watts, has a 12 VDC option that can be powered off of solar cells.

Sage Prime’s display is formatted with both graphical and numeric indication of flowrate, totalized flow and temperature, as well as the raw calibration milliwatts (mw) for ongoing diagnostics. In addition, the flowmeter has pulsed outputs of totalized flow, 4-20 mA output of flowrate, and all parameters via Modbus procedures for quarterly and annual in-site validation are also provided.


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TeSys T Motor Management System
By Schneider Electric
www.schneider-electric.com

Schneider Electric’s TeSys T is an advanced motor management system. Used with a short-circuit protection and a contactor, the TeSys T provides full motor monitoring, control and protection for electric motors. The TeSys T has been designed to manage critical processes for applications such as water/wastewater and oil/gas.

TeSys T innovation begins with the capability to be seamlessly integrated within an automation system. It natively supports five different communication protocols: Ethernet Modbus TCP, PROFIBUS, DeviceNet, CANopen and Modbus. In addition, the TeSys T allows users to dramatically decrease process downtime thanks to an advanced set of monitoring and protection features.

The TeSys T has outstanding operating characteristics, such as an extensive temperature range for operation (-25 C to 60 C); high monitoring accuracy (+/- 1 percent on current measurement); and a very compact size (3.5 x 2.4 x 4.8 inches) for the features offered.

Application Note: A U.S.-based company that works heavily in the oil and gas sector was looking for a motor management system to control pump systems for its offshore oil drilling platforms. TeSys T made the difference thanks to its accurate energy management features, flexible fieldbus communications and advanced protection and monitoring features. Because it can deliver information to devices in multiple communications protocols, it was an astute choice for its oil drilling platforms, which are located around the globe.


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CLC Capacitive Level Sensor
By Sensortechnics Inc
www.sensortechnics.com

Sensortechnics’ CLC level sensor continuously measures the level of liquids and granular or pulverized materials based on the capacitive measuring principle. The sensor is attached to the outside of a container or tank and can measure through almost any nonmetallic wall material. The sensor consists of two electrodes, which form a capacitance with their surrounding environment. The first electrode is mounted to the tank wall and detects any change of the fill level due to a changing capacitance with the process media. The second electrode is situated opposite the first one with insulation between the two. It forms a capacitance with the ambient air and compensates for all changes in environmental conditions, such as temperature and humidity changes.

The CLC sensor is innovative because it is capable of noninvasive, continuous level measurement from outside the container or tank. Previous capacitive level sensors had to be inserted into the tank to measure continuously. If they were placed on the outside of the tank, they could only work as a switch to detect a single liquid level point.

Testimonial: “In our continuous level measurement application with aggressive acid we used a conventional capacitive level sensor with the probe inserted into the fluid. Due to media compatibility problems the sensor had to be replaced about every six months, which was very cost intense and created a lot of maintenance issues. Thanks to Sensortechnics we have finally found a ‘set-and-forget’ solution!” — Bill McNeil, Application Engineer


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BT6-B Thermostatic Steam Trap
By Spirax Sarco Inc
www.spirax.com

Spirax Sarco’s BT6-B Stainless Steel Thermostatic Steam Trap is designed for clean steam applications in manufacturing of pharmaceuticals, biopharmaceuticals, food & beverage, and related sanitary/hygienic environments. The steam trap meets and exceeds the capacity and sensitivity specifications of its predecessor, the Model BT6 and is suitable for CIP/SIP systems requiring large cold condensate discharge capacities at low pressures typically encountered at the start of sterilizing cycles. The BT6-B’s redesigned seat provides high-capacity flow and positive draining for minimal condensate backup across the entire load range.

This provides improved SIP operations on bioreactors and fermenters, with tighter temperature control and reduced cycle time, plus improved performance in mains drainage applications. BT6-B performance helps reduce rouging and system corrosion and extends the life of diaphragm valves and seals.


The steam trap’s foolproof reassembly after cleaning eliminates the risk of trap failure resulting from reassembly error, and the safety clamp prevents accidental disassembly. Construction is 100 percent 316L, including bodies, internals and related systems. The internal surface finish is 25 micro-inch Ra (0.6 µm), and 40 micro-inch Ra (1 µm) for external surfaces.


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Smart-Trak 2 with Compod Mass Flowmeter
By Sierra Instruments
www.sierrainstruments.com

Sierra Instruments’ Smart -Trak 2 is the next generation of the company’s flagship Model 100 line of mass flowmeters and controllers. The Smart-Trak 2 provides a linear sensor, smoother control valve operation, more robust electronics and more control over a wide range of functions. The Smart-Trak 2, coupled with Sierra’s new Compod monitoring software, offers end-users an intelligent flow controller, greatly simplifying basic flow control installations and permitting networking of multiple instruments using open-source MODBUS RTU protocol. A Smart-Trak with Compod is designed to replace more expensive DCS or PLC systems, allowing end-users to automate a variety of processes. Two digital outputs and one analog input can be configured by the end-user, while the Compod monitors the functionality of the MFM and/or MFC and provides diagnostics, notifying users of faults or system upsets.

Application Note: A manufacturer of medical devices must check heart stents for leakage. The process needed to be automated. Expensive PLC-based solutions were proposed, but Compod-enabled Smart Trak 2 proved a much more economical solution. The regulator R1 is set manually to the leak-test pressure. This is usually a pressure above operating pressure of the DUT (device under test). A Smart-Trak MFC is given a setpoint appropriate to fill the DUT at a moderate rate. The MFC’s Compod monitors the flowrate. When the flowrate drops to zero, the pressure in the DUT is equal to the pressure of R1. The internal software in Compod senses the flow has stopped and the Compod closes the valve in the MFC and trips an alarm (light) for the operator, telling him the DUT is pressurized and the leak test is ready to begin. The operator sees the alarm light and opens the ball valve V2 manually. The leak test begins and the mass flowmeter measures the flowrate. As long as the flowrate is below a pre-determined level (flow noise), the DUT passes the test. If the flowrate is above this defined level, the Compod sends an alarm indicating the DUT is leaking and the DUT is failed.


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Model 72100 1/8JJAU Miniature Air Atomizing Nozzle
By Spraying Systems Co.
www.spray.com

Spraying Systems Co.’s Model 72100 Miniature Air Atomizing Nozzle is the smallest two-fluid nozzle available on the market and provides accurate intermittent spraying at speeds up to 180 cycles per minute. The Model 72100 measures less than 1.5 inches in length and weighs just six ounces, yet it is capable of accepting a wide range of standard Spraying Systems Co. air atomizing set-ups. The ultra-compact design is a good fit for robotic spraying and other applications where space is extremely limited and other air atomizing nozzles just don’t fit.

Outstanding operating characteristics:
• Physical size is ideal for applications where space is extremely limited
• Provides exceptional spray control for coating and lubricating applications
• Air actuated needle provides positive shutoff at up to 180 cycles per minute to ensure accurate spray placement and minimize liquid waste
• Accepts standard Spraying Systems Co. air atomizing setups


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Rovalve PCS17 Resilient Seated Knife Gate Valve
By Tyco Flow Control
www.tycovalves.com

Tyco Flow Control’s Rovalve PCS17 resilient, seated knife gate valve is designed to support water, pulp and paper, food and beverage, mining and power applications that require positive isolation of media. While there are many styles of resilient seated knife gates, the PCS17 knife gate valve includes an innovative perimeter cartridge seat, providing a combination of features found in few other knife gate valves. The perimeter cartridge seat of the PCS17 provides simplified seat replacement and reduced packing maintenance. It is a good fit for applications where positive shutoff against liquids, light solids and slurries is required.

With its precision-molded perimeter cartridge seat, the Rovalve PCS17 makes knife gate valve repair a cost-effective choice. Most resilient seated knife gates require the valve to be completely removed from the line to replace the seat. Some resilient seats are custom fit and may require minor adjustments or shims to gain proper sealing. Failing to get the fit right can cause premature seat life wear and seal failure. With the Rovalve PCS17, the entire cartridge seat is easily replaced; simply pull the one-piece seat out through the packing box and replace it the same way.


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Universe Valve Pressure Test Press
By Universe Machine Corp
www.umcorp.com

Universe Machine Corp’s Universe Valve Pressure Test Press is designed to test valves or wellhead equipment faster than conventional methods. Bolting on/removing flanges or welding/removal of caps are eliminated, thus avoiding a costly test flange inventory. The Test Press is capable of testing to ANSI, API and various other specifications. The Test Press is capable of testing both upstream and downstream without switching the orientation of the valve. The unit uses a hydraulic cylinder to clamp a test vessel and hydrostatics to pressure up the test vessel.

The innovative aspect of the Universe Test Press is the incorporation of a four-way, three-position valve. Prior to the use of the four-way valve, four two-way valves were required for switching between the testing configurations.

Application Note: The reduction in the number of two-way ball valves provided by the Universe Test Press proved very effective when building a custom Test Press for a specific customer. This customer required a test stand with three testing stations. This means the control panel requires three complete testing stations. The four-way valves allowed the user to go from using 12 two-way valves to just three four-way valves.


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VOTING IS NOW CLOSED!!!
THANKS FOR SUPPORTING THE 2009 INNOVATION AWARDS PROGRAM. INNOVATION AWARDS WINNERS WILL BE ANNOUNCED IN THE SEPT. 2009 ISSUE OF FLOW CONTROL MAGAZINE.
 
     

 

 
 

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