Industrial Maintenance & Plant Operation articles from January 2002

Industrial Maintenance & Plant Operation archives from January 2002

Inside one of the best. (Editorial Comments).
January 1, 2002... If you're a fan of the "100 Best Companies to Work for in America" lists, you already know about W.L. Gore & Associates. The Newark, DE-based manufacturer appeared in both book versions of the list (1984 and 1993 editions) and each of the...

NAM predicts slow recovery from recession. (Industry Newsline).
January 1, 2002... The National Association of Manufacturers released its economic forecast last month, predicting that a recovery would take place this year, but that it would not be substantial. Jerry Jasinowski, president of the Washington, D.C.-based trade...

DOE memo outlines plan to recycle nuclear scrap metal. (Industry Newsline).
January 1, 2002... According to an internal Department of Energy memo, the DOE has considered recycling scrap metal from government nuclear installations, despite a ban on that practice. Obtained by the Associated Press last month, the memo outlines testing and...

Court says USDA cannot close meat plants. (Industry Newsline).
January 1, 2002... The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced last month it no longer has the authority to close meatpacking facilities that fail to control salmonella bacteria in their products. A federal appeals court ruled that the USDA would have to use...

Nestle gets FTC OK for Ralston Purina purchase. (Industry Newsline).
January 1, 2002... Food manufacturer Nestle SA received U.S. Federal Trade Commission approval last month for its proposed acquisition of St. Louis, MO-based Ralston Purina Co. Switzerland-based Nestle said it expected to complete the process by Dec. 31. ...

OSHA promotes new regs. (Industry Newsline).
January 1, 2002... Localized satellite broadcasts and online outreach programs have been part of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's efforts to answer employer questions about its rule revisions that take effect Jan. 1. The revisions are designed...

IMPO Stock Watch: No-cost financing boosts big-three performance. (Industry Newsline).
January 1, 2002... The Big Three auto manufacturers -- Ford, General Motors and DaimlerChrysler -- suffered sharp declines in stock prices in 2001, especially following the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. To offset some of their losses, the automakers offered special...

Boeing to continue producing 717s. (Industry Newsline).
January 1, 2002... The Boeing Co. announced last month it would continue to manufacture its 717-model commercial jetliner, but at a reduced rate. Last fall, the company announced it might stop making the 100-passenger plane altogether. Airlines with current 717...

L.S. Starrett Co. (News Briefs).
January 1, 2002... * Douglas R. Starrett, 81, retired president and CEO of toolmaker L.S. Starrett Co., Athol, MA, died Nov. 5. The Dartmouth College graduate and World War II bomber pilot worked his entire career at Starrett Co. He ran the 118-year-old company...

National Steel and Shipbuilding Co. (NASSCO). (News Briefs).
January 1, 2002... * National Steel and Shipbuilding Co. (NASSCO), San Diego, CA, has become the first private shipyard in the U.S. to gain ISO 14001 certification for its Environmental Management System and environmental-protection policies. The shipyard, a...

South Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership (SCMEP). (News Briefs).
January 1, 2002... * Chuck Spangler, vice president of field operations for the South Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership (SCMEP), was presented the Practitioner of the Year award at the 2001 Modernization Forum, an annual conference of MEP centers from...

Devcon, a Danvers, MA-based adhesives manufacturer, has won the American Eagle Award from the Cleveland, OH-based Industrial Supply Manufacturers Association (ISMA). (News Briefs).
January 1, 2002... * Devcon, a Danvers, MA-based adhesives manufacturer, has won the American Eagle Award from the Cleveland, OH-based Industrial Supply Manufacturers Association (ISMA). The award recognizes superior corporate activities that support the local...

National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA). (News Briefs).
January 1, 2002... * The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) has offered to work with the Pentagon to repair and replace its roof system that was destroyed in the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. According to the Rosemont, IL-based trade group, 12...

Intel Corp. (News Briefs).
January 1, 2002... * Gordon Moore, former CEO and chairman of Intel Corp., has pledged more than $260 million to the Washington, D.C.-based biodiversity conservation group Conservation International (CI). The money, given through his San Francisco, CA-based...

W.L. Gore & Associates, Inc.: Quality's different drummer. (Cover Story).
January 1, 2002... Associates at the company's Elkton, MD-based sealants division say the extraordinary things you've heard about this manufacturer are true. Just don't expect a look at the plant -- unless you 're good enough to be hired. Some companies go...

Needle Nose pliers. (Tools).
January 1, 2002... The Extra Long Reach Needle Nose pliers are available in a two-piece set with straight and 45-degree tips for access in a variety of applications. The pliers feature serrated jaws and padded handles.

Wood scrapers. (Tools).
January 1, 2002... The FE Series of wood scrapers features feather-soft Santoprene handles and a mini blade-file that is fitted into the heel of the handle. The file is retained by a neodymium magnet. Three blades sizes are available.

Cutters. (Tools).
January 1, 2002... These small hand-held Data T-cutters are for use with multi-pair cable and coaxial cable in cutting applications where maintaining cable geometry is required. They feature a stamped, hardened-steel frame with curved blades and a locking latch...

Cordless combo kits. (Tools).
January 1, 2002... The 18-Volt Power-Plus Contractor Cordless Combination Kits feature the Cordless Sawzall, a T-handle Driver/Drill, batteries and charger. Each kit comes standard with a soft-sided Contractor Bag.

Pneumatic scissors. (Tools).
January 1, 2002... Airshirz pneumatic scissors are available in two designs. Both feature an automatic spring-return action and a safety latch that secures stainless steel blades in a locked position.

Angle grinders. (Tools).
January 1, 2002... The W14-125 and the W14-150 Ergo are mid-sized grinders with an ergonomically designed, adjustable back handle. Standard equipment includes a side handle, wheel guard, inner flange, outer nut and face spanner.

Cordless drills. (Tools).
January 1, 2002... The DEWALT line of cordless drills features three-speed all-metal transmissions with MAX 3rd Speed and high-torque motors. The keyless ratcheting chuck lock give a tight bit grip. Extended run-time batteries are included.

Drill/Driver. (Tools).
January 1, 2002... This cordless multi drill and driver is a dual-mode switching gear system with rechargeable battery. It is suitable for general construction, plumbing, electric installation and finish work. Its patented transmission technology works with...

Control cable. (Product News).
January 1, 2002... The model-190 multi-conductor control cable resists mineral oils, synthetic oils and water-based coolants. Its design features blended insulation and a jacket.

Lift table. (Produt News).
January 1, 2002... The Pro-Air Lift Table operates off of clean shop air with no electrical or hydraulic lines. Control options include a pedestal-mounted control valve or a guarded foot-pedal control.

Altered realities. (Distribution Solutions).
January 1, 2002... It has been nearly four months since the world, as we knew it, came crashing to the ground along with the twin towers of the World Trade Center. Some would argue that everything changed that day; others would respond, "only if you let the...

Dock lift. (Docks and Doors).
January 1, 2002... The Zero-Low Dock Lift can lift and load trucks even if the building is not equipped with a traditional loading dock. The Heavy Capacity lift with side fenders is designed to lower flush to ground level.

Sectional door. (Docks and Doors).
January 1, 2002... The WORKHORSE 1000 sectional door features the Lite-Lift System with enclosed counterweights. It uses nylon breakaway blocks with nylon rollers.

Vinyl strip doorways. (Docks and Doors).
January 1, 2002... Vinyl Strip Doorways fit any doorway and provide two-way simultaneous traffic in larger areas. Doorways can be mounted on walls or headers. The all-vinyl products are shipped ready to install; just unroll and attach. Whole replacement rolls are...

Knockout door. (Docks and Doors).
January 1, 2002... The knockout door features a design track that provides a double groove radius and horizontal track. A trolley system located above the door transmits lifting and lowering power, either with a manual chain hoist or push-button-actuated...

Drum grab. (Docks and Doors).
January 1, 2002... The Gator Grip drum grab offers a positive lock on the drum rim. The Auto Grip Lock automatically locks the grip jaws closed and maintains a positive lock throughout drum transport. The jaws do not unlock until the drum is placed on the ground....

Radio and I/O module. (Product News).
January 1, 2002... The MGR-RAD is an integrated radio and I/O module for analog and digital signals in harsh environments. It utilizes spread spectrum frequency hopping techniques to link remote devices to the control room.

Diaphragm flushometer. (Product News).
January 1, 2002... The Regal PRO diaphragm Flushometer is designed for harsh water conditions and adapts to changing pressures. It features the Fixed Metering By-Pass Orifice, ADA-compliant handles, stop caps, and a vacuum breaker.

Coolant cleaner helps pump maker boost productivity. (Field Report).
January 1, 2002... Almost three years ago, Bill Wanner and Payton Hage, co-owners of pump manufacturer Wanner Engineering, Minneapolis, MN, decided to buy highly automated machining systems. According to Hage, president, the 25-year old company needed the...

Floor coating systems. (Flooring).
January 1, 2002... FASTCURE coating systems are high-build, impact resistant epoxy systems with full chemical resistance. They are low-odor and VOC-compliant. The coatings are packaged in kits that include all components and detailed instructions.

Coating/Linings. (Flooring).
January 1, 2002... Chempruf coatings and linings, based on epoxy, polyester, and vinyl ester resins, use resin technology to shield substrate from a broad range of chemicals. These products can be used in immersion service to 275 degrees F and vapor service to...

Rider sweeper. (Flooring).
January 1, 2002... The battery-powered 114RS Rider Sweeper can sweep any surface, including tile, asphalt, concrete, wood, artificial turf and carpet, by changing the broom to fit the floor type. Dual front and side brooms sweep curb debris into the sweep path....

Polyurea coating. (Flooring).
January 1, 2002... AMP-100 is a spray applied plural component coating that has aliphatic and aromatic polymer chemistry. This product is a fast set, high-build elastomeric polyrea coating. Among the advantages cited by the manufacturer are color stability and...

Anti-slip coating. (Flooring).
January 1, 2002... REV-GRIP anti-slip coating helps transform slick, hazardous areas into non-slip surfaces with one application. Brush or trowel onto concrete, metal or untreated wood, indoors or out.

Floor brushes. (Flooring).
January 1, 2002... The All-Around Brush has a U-joint design that swivels into any position. Its swivel head and low profile allow it to get into places that would be difficult for a normal floor brush.

Wire cutter. (Product News).
January 1, 2002... The Model 501 combination wire cutter and stripper features a thumb-adjustable cam for setting the tool to accommodate a wire size. It is ergonomically designed with rubber-cushioned hand grips and a Light-Touch return spring.

Float switches. (Product News).
January 1, 2002... These liquid level float switches are alternatives for chemical processing, petrochemical, food and beverage and marine applications. Plastic and metal models withstand harsh chemicals and are not affected by electric interference, high...

Spectacles. (Product News).
January 1, 2002... CudaSpree spectacles feature an adjustable nosepiece and a four-point adjustable cable temple for curved or straight fit. The sleek frame and lens offers protection. Also featured is FogGard Plus and scratch-resistant lens. Indoor/outdoor and...

Pressure washer. (Product News).
January 1, 2002... The GPW-2500 Electric Powered Hi-Pressure Washer tackles cleaning jobs with a pressure output that lifts off dirt and grime. Features include a steel-reinforced hose and five quick-disconnect nozzles.

Speed profiling offers material handling flexibility. (Tech Check).
January 1, 2002... It's easy to understand how users might confuse speed profiling and motion control. Both technologies involve a form of positioning. When deciding which form to implement, a user should understand the key differences and application...

Instrumentation training. (Training Aids).
January 1, 2002... Technicians can prepare for the ISA's Certified Control Systems Technician Program with this training series. Topics include Basic Process Control, Process Measurement, and Calibration and Test Equipment.

Short courses. (Training Aids).
January 1, 2002... The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) is sponsoring short, continuing education courses in select cities during January and February 2002. Topics will include fluid dynamics, power piping, and cooling systems.

Root-cause analysis. (Training Aids).
January 1, 2002... The Root Cause Analysis Methods seminar teaches participants how to implement a root-cause analysis method to implement corrective action. The seminar includes the book "Root Cause Analysis: Improving Performance for Bottom Line Results."

Thermography training. (Training Aids).
January 1, 2002... The Infrared Training Center (ITC) offers hands-on training and certification for infrared camera and application software users. Training programs include Level I, II and Ill Predictive Maintenance Thermography, Research and Development, and...

Coating viscosity. (Product Sourcebook).
January 1, 2002... Advancing a new paradigm in viscosity measurement capabilities, the Dynatrol [R] Rheolyzer provides a convenient means to bench test the coating abilities of viscous materials such as paint, adhesives, and many other liquid coating materials....

Break-Away Panel. (Product Sourcebook).
January 1, 2002... Section release system is designed to extend the panel life of sectional doors. Upon impact from either direction, the bottom section releases from the track diminishing damage and downtime. Panel reset is simple and quick. System eliminates...

Increase Boiler Efficiency/Save Fuel Costs. (Product Sourcebook).
January 1, 2002... While continuous boiler blowdown is the ideal way to control T.D.S. in boiler water, taking this heated water from the boiler can be a considerable loss over time. Our recently revised brochure HRS 1188 describes the three different types of...

Made in the USA Edition Handbook[TM]. (Product Sourcebook).
January 1, 2002... The Omega[R] Made in the USA Edition Handbook [TM] is a hardbound color handbook with over 100,000 products, all made in the U.S.A. This edition features many Temperature, Pressure, Force, Flow, Level, pH, Conductivity, Humidity and Data...

Portable Cranes and Accessories. (Product Sourcebook).
January 1, 2002... Save money and solve weight problems with Wallace Portable Cranes and accessories. Select from hundreds of available models ranging from 1/2-to 15-ton capacities, with adjustable or fixed heights. Wallace's exclusive features of adjustable...

Compressed Air Treatment Interactive CD. (Product Sourcebook).
January 1, 2002... The Van Air Systems Interactive CD Catalog calculates dryer models, dew points, amounts of water removed and other useful facts based on users' air system requirements and conditions. Also featured are product overviews and a video, "The Why,...

Fabric Roll-up/Vertical Lift Doors. (Product Sourcebook).
January 1, 2002... Literature describes impact-forgiving fabric roll-up and vertical lift doors. Patented guide system maintains curtain and bottom bar in the opening under wind pressure, but releases when accidentally impacted. Reset is simple and quick, and...

Motor Testing and Maintenance. (Product Sourcebook).
January 1, 2002... With its MCE, [E.sup.max] and [MCE.sup.max] motor testers, PdMA has revolutionized the way the industry tests, trends and predicts motor health. Provides the equipment, interactive remote training and free expert technical support. Through...

Proven Safety Barriers. (Product Sourcebook).
January 1, 2002... Full color catalog describes superior method to protect people, machinery, building wails, shelving, racks, finished product and more. Omega Barriers safeguard your workplace from injuries and accidents caused by moving vehicles. Available in...

Mih*Jet, Steam Jet Cleaner. (Product Sourcebook).
January 1, 2002... * No Pumps, Motors or Moving Parts * Uses Plant Steam & Cold Water * High Velocity Hot Water Output * Automatically Mixes Detergent * Available From Stock

Repeller for any kind of Pest Bird! (Products Sourcebook).
January 1, 2002... Programmable species-specific repeller frightens birds away for good using their own distress cries. Choose any or all of 8 bird sounds - PREDATOR sounds create even more danger. Control box and four separate directional speakers cover up to...

Reduce Glove loss & hand injuries. (Product Sourcebook).
January 1, 2002... Glove Guard reduces hand injuries by keeping work gloves available to workers at all times and reduces glove replacement costs. Safety features include nonconductive material, resistant to flex fatigue and a safety center break-away. Fits PPE &...

FATHOM[TM] liquid bag filtration media. (Products Sourcebook).
January 1, 2002... Designed specifically for liquid filtration applications, FATHOM [TM] Media features high particleholding capacity with significant efficiency ratings. Developed using Kimberly-Clark's patented bicomponent technology, FATHOM Media's continuous...

Want to Know How to Best Loosen Frozen Parts? (Product Sourcebook).
January 1, 2002... Free bulletin explains how Kroil, an amazing chemical lubricant, creeps into millonth inch spaces, dissolves grease and carbon, breaks the bonds of rust, supplies necessary lubrication and quickly loosens frozen metal parts. Includes money-back...

Cable Carrier/Cable Products. (Products Sourcebook).
January 1, 2002... Catalog provides technical data and design information on cable carrier and cable products. Products include hundreds of all-polymer Energy Chain/Tube cable carriers for guidance and protection of automated cables and hoses, line of Chainflex...

New Clean Air Solution Guide. (Product Sourcebook).
January 1, 2002... Airflow Systems, Inc. has a new Clean Air Guide that makes it easy to select the best clean air machine for your needs. Whether it's dust, welding smoke, machine shop mist, solder smoke, odors, or tobacco smoke, we have the solution. Please see...

Approved Fire Safe Valve Actuator. (Product Sourcebook).
January 1, 2002... Free brochure information for Factory Mutual approved WATCHDOG [R] fire safe valve actuator. This fusible link Shutoff Valve Actuator is a self-contained, spring loaded device that automatically shuts off or open 1/4" through 4" fire safe ball...

Electrical Contact Repair. (Product Sourcebook).
January 1, 2002... Helwig Carbon Products, Inc. repairs and fabricates electrical contacts for a wide variety of applications. Send for our literature that describes our unique process, which ensures your contacts are repaired or manufactured better than the...

Corrosion Resistant Unit Heaters. (Product Sourcebook).
January 1, 2002... RUFFNECK'S new CR1 Triton[TM] Series of corrosion-resistant forced air unit heaters are suitable for non-hazardous highly corrosive, humid or dirty en-vironments and can be used in hose-down applications. These units are UL Listed Type 4X and...

Wrapping Techniques. (Product Sourcebook).
January 1, 2002... The GOOD WRAPPING TECHNIQUES MANUAL, third edition, details different techniques for the most economical and secure ways to protect products for shipment. Techniques for both long distance, as well as in-town hauling are explained. A glossary...

Heat Processing Equipment. (Product Sourcebook).
January 1, 2002... Informative booklet includes a wealth of information needed to select the proper heat processing equipment for your application. Subjects discussed include construction issues, operating temperatures, airflow, safety, heat uniformity, material...

AirData Multimeter. (Product Sourcebook).
January 1, 2002... The AirData multimeter, portable microprocessor controlled, multifunction micromanometer, features unparalleled accuracy in the measurement of air flow, velocity, pressure, and temperature. A reading-averaging, time weighted software program...

"MagicRing" Screw Holding Hex Tools. (Product Sourcebook).
January 1, 2002... MagicRing, the most productive innovation for hex tools in 30 years! MagicRing is 3 tools in one; standard hex tool, ball end for angle entry and screw holding for time savings. Spring steel hardened ring holds screws on, precision machined for...

Industrial Vacuum Cleaners. (Product Sourcebook).
January 1, 2002... New brochure features the full-line of Nilfisk and CFM industrial vacuum cleaning equipment, including: HEPA & ULPA vacuums, continuous duty and wet/dry vacuums, vacuum-assisted power tools, and specialty products such as explosion proof,...

Rotating Unions. (Product Sourcebook).
January 1, 2002... Full-color, 64-page catalog includes many new and enhanced products including steam, hot oil, and high-speed coolant unions. It contains complete specs and dimensions on over 500 different unions that compose the standard line. Cut-aways show...

Anti-Slip Tapes, Treads, Tiles. (Product Sourcebook).
January 1, 2002... Master Stop -- your one-stop source for anti-slip products. High -visibility reflective insert stair treads. Tapes: black/yellow hazard stripes, light to heavy-duty grit, protects mops from shredding. Environmentally friendly floor coatings....

Consume Micro-Muscle!. (Product Sourcebook).
January 1, 2002... Industrial strength super surfactant concentrate boosted with active microbial grease digester. Engineered to quickly remove everyday routine petroleum based soils (such as motor oil, hydraulic fluid, lithium grease, lubricant oils, stamping...

Sate Hydraulics. (Product Sourcebook).
January 1, 2002... Lawson Products, Inc. is an international distributor of over 45,000 expendable maintenance, repair and replacement items. Safety-engineered products can save time, money and lives, according to the company. Manual contains suggestions...

Wahl Infrared Thermometers. (Product Sourcebook).
January 1, 2002... Wahl Heat Spy infrared thermometers offer non-contact temperature measurement for all applications, including HVAC, industrial maintenance, food processing, and industrial processing. Instruments are completely portable with battery powered...

Adjustability at the Touch of a Button. (Product Sourcebook).
January 1, 2002... Bring versatility to new heights with the One-Tough Electric Table. Using the from-mounted rocker switch, the unit electro-mechanically adjusts up or down. Convenient front leg scales help locate and precisely reset different workheights with...

Ergonomic Worktables & Benches. (Product Sourcebook).
January 1, 2002... With over 700 standard modular components to choose from, you'll be limited only by your imagination. Select the original kworkhorse of the Workplace Systems product line, the Series 1000 Tubeframe table (shown above), the sleek,...

Modular Technician Stations. (Product Sourcebook).
January 1, 2002... Complete, self-contained work environments designed to organize complex activities and improve employee productivity. The Workplace [R] Series 7000 Technician Station offers on-site storage, designed specifically for work-intensive functions...

Mobile Work Units. (Products Sourcebook).
January 1, 2002... Whether your need is for a mobile cart, table, or cabinet, you can design it using the Workplace [R] modular component system. Add mobility to any workstation found within the pages of the Workplace Systems modular component catalog. To...

Keyless Tapered Bushings. (Product Sourcebook).
January 1, 2002... Check out the latest in keyless bushing technology. Trantorque[R] QC[TM] is a patented quick-change design directly interchangeable with QD bushings. Save hours of down time and eliminate key wallowing and backlash.

Technology in Motion. (Product Sourcebook).
January 1, 2002... Get the complete catalog of Fenner Drives' products on a convenient CD-ROM. The PDF files contain information about Fenner's complete line of PowerTwist Plus[R] Link V-belts; Trantorque[R] Keyless Bushings; composite pulleys, sprockets, and...