Perspectives from the month that was in the world of Flow Control.
1. Pipeline Viscosity Reduction: In August I visited my alma mater, Temple University, to get some firsthand insight on research being conducted on a new pipeline viscosity reduction system called Advanced Oil Technology. The concept, which is being developed by QS Energy Inc., promises to minimize the energy required to flow crude oil and condensate. And early results are promising, as a test by the U.S. Department of Energy saw the AOT system reduce the viscosity of API 34° oil by up to 56.12 percent. For more on this story, visit flwctrl.com/1MQiA6o.
2. FDI Tools Update: The FieldComm Group has released the first update to its newest tool deliverables. Version 1.1 of the development tools introduce new capabilities, including an automated device package test tool, support for PROFINET device packages, and support for developing packages capable of offline configuration. Since FDI Cooperation disolved in July 2015, both PROFIBUS and PROFINET Intl. and the FieldComm Group have partnered to support FDI products. For more on this story, visit flwctrl.com/1JwM7Ts.
3. Share Your Pain: We’re looking for your help! Flow Control is reaching out to professionals who work with pumping systems and/or flowmeters for feedback to inform our editorial coverage going forward. Take a few minutes to respond to a five-question "Quick Survey" on pumps at flwctrl.com/quick_pumpsurvey and/or flowmeters at flwctrl.com/quick_flowmetersurvey. Survey respondents will be entered into a drawing for a $50 Amazon.com gift card. We appreciate your feedback.
4. Bedrock Showcases Universal Control System: I recently spoke with Albert Rooyakkers, CTO and vice president of engineering for Bedrock Automation, who put me through my paces on the company’s new control system that features a pin-less, embedded cyber security architecture. The Bedrock system is being touted as a cyber secure solution that enables the convergence of traditional DCS, PLC, and SCADA applications. For more on this story, visit flwctrl.com/bedrock_controlsys.
Matt Migliore is director of content for Flow Control magazine and FlowControlNetwork.com. He has covered technology and industry for 15 years. He can be reached at 610 828-1711 or [email protected].
