Industrial Maintenance & Plant Operation articles from July 2002

Industrial Maintenance & Plant Operation archives from July 2002

A little WorldCom, Enron everywhere. (Editorial Comments).
July 1, 2002... Someone at WorldCom failed to report $3,800,000,000 in expenses, so now the company is looking at Chapter 11. Along with the similarly fated Enron and withering Arthur Andersen, it has already added thousands more to the ranks of displaced...

Trade deficit hit all-time high of $35.9 billion in April. (Industry Newsline).
July 1, 2002... The U.S. trade deficit reached a record $35.9 billion in April, topping March's deficit of $32.5 billion by almost 11%. According to the U.S. Department of Commerce, Americans' purchases of foreign-made autos and consumer goods such as...

BMW's South Carolina plant to recycle landfill gas as energy source. (Industry Newsline).
July 1, 2002... BMW Manufacturing Corp. announced last month a plan to recycle methane gas generated at a landfill near its Spartanburg, SC-based manufacturing facility and use it to fuel gas turbines at the factory. According to the company, its Landfill...

Utilities heading south of the border. (Industry Newsline).
July 1, 2002... In what critics say is an effort to sidestep U.S. Clean Air Act regulations, a number of U.S.- and overseas-based utility companies have begun locating new electrical-generating plants in northern Mexico. According to a recent article in...

Joint venture opens $55 million solar-cell manufacturing plant. (Industry Newsline).
July 1, 2002... United Solar Systems Corp., a joint venture between Energy Conversion Devices (ECD), Inc., Auburn Hills, MI, and N.V. Bekaert S.A., Belgium, last month opened the world's largest plant for making thin-film solar cells at the Bekaert ECD Solar...

Deere & Co. realignment will close two facilities. (Industry Newsline).
July 1, 2002... Deere & Co. announced last month that a cost-saving realignment of its Commercial & Consumer Equipment Division, the company's second-largest business unit, will result in the closing of two manufacturing plants. Facilities in Williamsburg, VA,...

Nonwovens manufacturer opens 40,000-sq.-ft. product development center. (Industry Newsline).
July 1, 2002... Nordson Corp., Westlake, OH, has opened a 40,000-sq.-ft. customer laboratory facility in Dawsonville, GA, near Atlanta, for product development and testing for the nonwovens industry. It houses four laboratories and what the company said is the...

Environmental Protection Agency. (News Briefs).
July 1, 2002... * The Environmental Protection Agency announced the first round of water-security grants last month, part of a $90 million program to help the nation's 168,000 drinking-water utilities assess their security vulnerabilities. EPA Administrator...

Cooper Industries, Inc. (News Briefs).
July 1, 2002... * Cooper Industries, Inc., said it has completed a reincorporation in Bermuda. The $4.2 billion manufacturer of electrical products and hardware formed Cooper Industries, Ltd. to become the parent company of Cooper Industries, Inc., previously...

National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA). (News Briefs).
July 1, 2002... * The amount of mercury used by the nation's largest lamp manufacturers in fluorescent bulbs has been significantly reduced, according to the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA). The Washington, D.C.-based trade group said...

The market for specialty adhesives. (News Briefs).
July 1, 2002... * The market for specialty adhesives is expected to grow an average of 4.3% annually during the next five years, according to a new study. Valued at $5.7 billion in 2001, the combined industrial and consumer markets for hot-melt adhesives,...

United Airlines. (News Briefs).
July 1, 2002... * United Airlines held a grand-opening ceremony last month for its newly expanded cargo building at Chicago's O'Hare International Airport. The $63 million project added 176,000 sq. ft. to the facility, enlarging it to 701,741 sq. ft., and...

GE Fanuc Automation. (News Briefs).
July 1, 2002... * GE Fanuc Automation celebrated the 15th anniversary last month of its joint venture between GE Industrial Systems and Fanuc Ltd. of Japan. The Charlottesville, VA-based maker of automation control systems now operates in 55 countries and has...

Polyester glove liners. (Gloves).
July 1, 2002... These polyester glove liners are made with continuous filament, knitted polyester. A special fiber construction absorbs moisture. Gloves are constructed to prevent them from unraveling. Berkshire Corp., River Street, Great Barrington, MA 01230;...

Heavy-duty gloves. (Gloves).
July 1, 2002... The Armor Tip Glove is a heavy-duty lined leather glove with high-impact plastic inserts sown into the fingerprints and thumb. The gloves protect the fingers but provide dexterity. Hatch Corp., 1600 Emerson, Oxnard, CA 93033; 800-767-1343. ...

Skin-friendly gloves. (Gloves).
July 1, 2002... The line of powder-free SoftSkin Aloe Vera Gel Coated Gloves with vitamin E are treated to remove harmful allergy causing proteins. An emollient effect enhances the health of the wearers skin. The gloves are hand-packed in easy remove dispenser...

Cut-resistant gloves. (Gloves).
July 1, 2002... These work gloves are made with SuperFabric brand material, which uses plastic, metal, glass, rubber, and conventional fabric. They provide cut protection and gripping power. Conventional materials lose flexibility as cutand...

Bead Plugs. (Product News).
July 1, 2002... The IB Series of InterruptedBead Plugs features interrupted external beads that are designed to grip threads, then strip out without shredding. The plug snaps into fittings to seal out contaminants. Niagara Plastics Co., 7090 Edinboro Rd.,...

Flow rack. (Product News).
July 1, 2002... Gravity flow racks are available with options including rack sizes, number of shelves, roller guides, tracks, and total-lock casters. Heavy-duty part-storage bins in multiple sizes and colors enhance part identification. Quixxsmart Structures,...

Hydraulic stackers. (Product News).
July 1, 2002... These battery-powered hydraulic stackers/lifters feature a load capacity of up to 2,000 lbs. Remote-control, floor lock, and safety screen are standard. Also included are LED battery changing status indicators, an illuminated voltmeter, and a...

Best practices: Rohm and Hass Co.; manufacturing excellence one step at a time. (Cover Story).
July 1, 2002... With the help of company veterans like Dave Rosenthal and others, the Philadelphia-based maker of specialty chemicals has embarked on a manufacturing-excellence initiative tailored to the unique needs of its worldwide businesses. Credited for...

Lift covers. (Product News).
July 1, 2002... Duratite lift covers feature a manufacturing process that produces four rigid sides without stitching or adding metal wires. The lift covers protect mechanisms and personnel from dust, dirt, and pinch points. They are available in black or...

Stock carts. (Product News).
July 1, 2002... A line of eight all-welded service and stock carts with ergonomic handles for moving heavy loads is available. Choose from two-, three-, or four-shelf models. All carts are 12-gauge, all-welded construction throughout with heavy-duty bolt on...

Gauge checker. (Product News).
July 1, 2002... The 828 length-measurement system is now enhanced with a Pentium 3 processor and Windows NT-based software. The direct-length measurement machine is repeatable, and improves measurement efficiency and managing the verification process for an...

Catalyst software. (Product News).
July 1, 2002... This CD contains a demonstration and download of the latest version of Alarmware System Configuration software designed for the manufacturer's Catalyst Interactive Communications System. Downloadable PDFs of a catalyst datasheet, system...

Profiler. (Product News).
July 1, 2002... The Model 222-D is a portable, vibration signature profiler, analyzer, and two-plane balancing instrument. It is used to analyze machine vibration to identify problems. The instrument prints before- and after-vibration signatures that are used...

Automation Program. (Product News).
July 1, 2002... The latest version of HAPHyperWare Automation Program for portable data logging and alarm systems features HyperWare software. Data and data logger status can be automatically posted and systematically updated. Logic Beach, Inc., 8363-6F Center...

Belt conveyor. (Product News).
July 1, 2002... Adjustable supports are available for the line of medium- and heavy-duty unit-handling conveyors. The supports allow independent height adjustment at both ends of the conveyor and quick changeover when conveying at different elevations. Lewco,...

Crack repair. (Maintenance Chemicals).
July 1, 2002... Traffic Fast is a mix-and-pour shallow-crack concrete repair. It contains a high-bond liquid polymer so repairs withstand industrial use and have impact resistance. Just mix, pour and finish. Garon Products, Inc., P.O. Box 1924, Wall, NJ 07719;...

Black-body coating. (Maintenance Chemicals).
July 1, 2002... HiE-Coat 840-C is a high-temperature, black-body coating, used in insulation systems for thermal efficiency of ceramic and refractory surfaces, and exhaust pipes. Aremco Products, Inc., 707-B Executive Blvd., Valley Cottage, NY 10989;...

Floor Treatment. (Maintenance Chemicals).
July 1, 2002... The Trusty-Step Anti-Slip Floor Treatment can be used on ceramic, mosaic and quarry tile, marble, granite, terrazzo and cement. It can be used to help prevent slips indoors or outdoors and will last for five years. Trusty-Step International,...

Tire Sealant. (Maintenance Chemicals).
July 1, 2002... ReSeal Tire Sealant and Conditioner features a formula with high-tenacity Kevlar fiber that eliminates flat tires caused by slow leaks, and repairs punctures. The blend of polymers and Kevlar fibers is environmentally safe, and does not rely on...

Analyzer. (Product News).
July 1, 2002... The rh-plus MR 2350 relative humidity (rh) analyzer is for measurement and control of moisture levels in gases. Optional input permits external sensors. It is available in wall- and panel-mount versions. General Eastern Instruments, Modus Div.,...

Drum pump. (Product News).
July 1, 2002... The GoatThroat pump, with one-touch flow control, prevents hazardous spills. A few strokes of the plunger can pressurize any container with no sparking. Each kit contains seals, siphon tube segments and connectors. Westcott Distribution, Inc.,...

Temperature Handbook. (Product News).
July 1, 2002... The Volume MM Temperature Handbook offers detailed information and specifications on over 40,000 products for process measurement and control featured on over 2,000 pages. Product selections include connectors, wire, and temperature sensors for...

Connectors. (Product News).
July 1, 2002... The Power Tap connector is designed to bring power levels or ground circuitry to any location on a printed circuit board. It enables fast wire-to-board connections using everyday ring and/or fork terminals. They are suitable for a range of...

Dye injector. (Product News).
July 1, 2002... The Spectroline BigEZ dye injector uses a jumbo, multi-dose cartridge, which contains AR-GLO fluorescent leak-detection dye. The dye is added into an operating AC&R system; where the system leaks, so does the dye. Spectronics Corp., Dept. 1258,...

Corrosion-proof components extend bearing life for food manufacturer. (Field Report).
July 1, 2002... In the food industry, moisture and harsh cleaning solutions are part of everyday life, and corrosion is a production manager's nightmare. At the Hormel Foods Corp. plant in Fremont, NE, the primary cause of bearing failure on the production...

Seven steps to pressure-gauge selection. (Tech Check).
July 1, 2002... The operation and design of pressure gauges dates back to the mid-1800s when Eugene Bourdon invented the Bourdon tube. This same principle is used today, albeit with enhancements. Many factors affect proper gauge selection, and if the following...

Automation Training. (Training Aids).
July 1, 2002... The Online Institute for Automation Training (http://onlineinstitute.gefanuc.com) offers interactive courses with 24/7 availability and self-paced learning modules for users of GE Fanuc automation software and hardware. Each course is geared...

Automation Training. (Training Aids).
July 1, 2002... "Best Practices in Maintenance Engineering" is a short-course certificate program offered by the University of Delaware for maintenance professionals. Choose three of six, two- to three-day courses. Courses are based on benchmark studies of...

Distribution coursework. (Training Aids).
July 1, 2002... The Fluid Power Distributor Association will co-sponsor the University of Industrial Distribution (UID) continuing education this fall (Oct. 20-23 in Indianapolis, IN). Students can apply their coursework toward earning the Professional...

Seminar on vacuum technology. (Training Aids).
July 1, 2002... Classes are designed to assist engineers in making decisions when specifying, selecting, operating and troubleshooting vacuum systems. The seminars provide participants with 20 hours of continuing education for professional registration...

Web-site training guide. (Training Aids).
July 1, 2002... This guide serves as a training aid on how to use the company's Web site. It highlights features of the site including market-specific adhesives, sample requests, literature access, online procurement and customer-specific account information....

Pull Production learning tool. (Training Aids).
July 1, 2002... "Pull Production for the Shopfloor" is a learning tool for implementing pull production, a system of production and delivery where nothing is produced by the upstream supplier until the downstream customer signals a need. It is designed to...

Terminal enclosures. (Electrical).
July 1, 2002... These electrical enclosures are available with a 70-degree ambient temperature rating as part of their ATEX certification. They are used to house electrical equipment that will not generate an arc or spark during operation and in which surface...

Control cables. (Electrical).
July 1, 2002... In these measurement and control cables, high-stranded copper conductors, twisted pairs arid slim coaxials and/or fiber optic components are used for fast and unscathed data and signal transmission. High-end polymers are available for...

Stack tower lamps. (Electrical).
July 1, 2002... StackLED SMT LED lamps are manufactured using surface-mount technology (SMT). They are plug-compatible with many stack light towers, require no modification to the indicator column, and can be used with flasher circuits. The lamps have...

Flexible power cables. (Electrical).
July 1, 2002... Chainflex continuous-flex cables are designed for use in cable carrier applications. Shielded and unshielded power cables and twisted-pair bus cables are available. lgus, Inc., RO. Box 14349, East Providence, RI 02914; 800-521-2747. Write...

Battery test systems. (Electrical).
July 1, 2002... These testing systems for 42V batteries use software that features programming and scheduling, commonly used test sequences that can be retrieved for future use, cycle-in-cycle functions, networking capability, and data-mining and graphics...

Fluorescent lamp. (Electrical).
July 1, 2002... The Handi-Light is a 13w fluorescent work light that provides bright, low voltage lighting in an impact-proof design. It features a break-resistant scratch guard, an under-the-handle on/off switch that is water- and dust-resistant, and a...

Evaluate your maintenance force. (Product Sourcebook).
July 1, 2002... Free 2002 catalog shows how to evaluate your workforce with pay-for-skills and knowledge tests for maintenance employees, mechanical, electrical, machinist, electronics, and building maintenance. Print tests in self-scoring format for use in...

Increase boiler efficiency: save fuel costs. (Product Sourcebook).
July 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 loss over time. Our recently revised brochure HRS 1188 describes the three types of continuous boiler...

Made in the USA Edition Handbook. (Product Sourcebook).
July 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 & accessories. (Product Sourcebook).
July 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. Adjustable span, tread and height, allow...

Structural stairway. (Product Sourcebook).
July 1, 2002... Quick-Step structural stairway is built with pre-manufactured components, installs quickly, and eliminates fixed or welded stairways. It is based on a parallelogram design that offers an adjustable range up to 4 in. and accommodates short rise,...

INTREPID[R] filtration media IAQ guide. (Product Sourcebook).
July 1, 2002... Our popular, pocket-size guide is a useful tool to help you select the right filtration products for your needs. Features HVAC industry terms, formulas and conversions, particle and dispersoid data, technical data and INTREPID [R] Media...

Belt machine. (Product Sourcebook).
July 1, 2002... The Dynafile portable airpowered abrasive belt machine features a composite quick change housing cover, which allows for easier contact arm and abrasive belt change. It grinds, deburrs, blends, and finishes inaccessible areas on metal, plastic,...

Repel birds safely and effectively. (Product Sourcebook).
July 1, 2002... Non-toxic and humane, ABC products repel all types of birds and animals for a variety of applications. These products harmonize with the environment and will not harm birds or animals. ABC support includes bird control system design, shop...

Solutions to real world welding. (Product Sourcebook).
July 1, 2002... The 2002 full-line catalog presents detailed descriptions of how the company's innovative technology and products provide solutions to the welding and cutting challenges faced by actual customers. This full-color, 84-page catalog includes...

Boots, bellows, way covers. (Product Sourcebook).
July 1, 2002... Bulletin PR-100B features Gortite[R] custom engineered boots, bellows and way covers manufactured of elastomer coated fabric materials. Includes information on molded, folded, sewnfolded, and heat sealed covers, and some stock bellows....

Industrial netting. (Product Sourcebook).
July 1, 2002... Naltex[R] Duronet[R] is an extruded plastic mesh intended to provide support and protection in high-performance applications. Offering a low-cost alternative to most traditional materials, this lightweight and durable netting is found in many...

MRO Asset Protection. (Product Sourcebook).
July 1, 2002... The MRO Asset Protection is a program that helps improve plant safety and productivity. It analyzes fuse inventory, then reports on how to reduce that inventory -- typically 25% -- while upgrading to circuit protection products that safeguard...

Rid any area of birds. (Product Sourcebook).
July 1, 2002... Prowler Owl is on a search and destroy mission to rid any area of bothersome birds. It is in "hunting" posture, never perching so birds can't adapt. Owls that just sit there are useless. This predator has 44-in, patented wings that flap in the...

Serious cleaning industrial vacuums. (Product Sourcebook).
July 1, 2002... Free catalog covers Nilfisk and CFM vacuum lines and a variety of industrial applications. Oversized filters collect large volumes of contaminants without clogging. Multi-stage filtration retains up to 99.999% of dust. Suitable for cleanrooms,...

Mop-Top[TM] anti-slip tape. (Product Sourcebook).
July 1, 2002... Unlike ordinary anti-slip tape surfaces that grip and rip mop heads, Mop-Top [TM] anti-slip tape minimizes fraying, shredding and disintegration. Both sponge and string style mops glide easily over Mop-Top [TM] for faster cleanups. * Now comes...

Safe hydraulics. (Product Sourcebook).
July 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...

Heat-processing equipment. (Product Sourcebook).
July 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...

Rotating unions. (Product Sourcebook).
July 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...

Electrical contact replacement kits. (Product Sourcebook).
July 1, 2002... Bulletin covers many low-cost electrical contact replacement kits. In stock are kits for General Electric, Square D, Westinghouse, Furnas Electric, Allen-Bradley, Clark, Cutler Hammer, Ward Leonard, and Federal Pacific. Company can handle large...

Worm gear speed reducers. (Product Sourcebook).
July 1, 2002... Boston Gear designs and builds 120 years of power transmission experience into each of its 700 Series worm gear speed reducers. Single reduction units are available in 1/6 through 25 hp and double reduction units are available from 1/6 through...

Keyless tapered bushings. (Product Sourcebook).
July 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. Fenner Drives, ...

New product brochure. (Product Sourcebook).
July 1, 2002... OilSkimmers Model 6-V oil skimmer features flexible floating collector tube to snake over and around debris to reach waste mineral and vegetable oils, animal fats, oily froths and other contaminants from water. Benefits include a rugged system...

Rotation material handling system. (Product Sourcebook).
July 1, 2002... This innovative below-the-hook rotation system is safe, efficient and damage free. The Posi-Turner handles both lifting and rotating problems. Standard heavy-duty slings and rotation drive turn your load. An optional powered-load leveler...

Cool electronic cabinets. (Product Sourcebook).
July 1, 2002... UL-listed Cabinet Coolers are the low cost way to cool and purge heat sensitive electronics. The compact Cabinet Coolers produce cold air at 20 degrees F from compressed air. Twelve models are available with thermostat control to minimize...

Transportable precast concrete buildings. (Product Sourcebook).
July 1, 2002... Available now, are transportable, pre-assembled, weather-tight, maintenance-free buildings perfect for equipment shelters, HAZMAT storage, and restrooms. Roof and floor are designed for superior durability. These concrete buildings are...

In-plant buildings mezzanine brochure. (Product Sourcebook).
July 1, 2002... The latest brochure from Porta-King Building Systems details the company's fully integrated in-plant enclosures and wail systems, mezzanine structures, in-plant offices, guardhouses, shelters and more. Readers may fill out and return the...

MIG welding unit is best-in-class. (Product Sourcebook).
July 1, 2002... One of the most powerful, best performing all-in-one MIG welding power sources in the industry is now available. The Millermatic 210 and the Millermatic 251 provide improved welding performance, including 10 amps more welding power and better...

Polyurethane polyester v-belts. (Product Sourcebook).
July 1, 2002... PowerTwist Plus V-belts outperform conventional rubber drive belts and all other link v-belts time after time in harsh environments. This 12-page brochure containing application photos demonstrates how you can save money and reduce downtime...

Reduce glove loss & hand injuries. (Product Sourcebook).
July 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 &...

Wrapping techniques. (Product Sourcebook).
July 1, 2002... The third edition of the Good Wrapping Techniques Manual is available from Goodwrappers [R]. The 26-page manual shows different techniques for the most economical and secure ways to protect your product for shipment. Techniques for the long...

"MagicRing" screw holding hex tools. (Product Sourcebook).
July 1, 2002... MagicRing, may be the most productive innovation for hex tools in 30 years! MagicRing is three 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...

Industrial Air Curtain. (Product Sourcebook).
July 1, 2002... This brochure details the specifications of the newest line of heavy duty Air Curtains. These heavy-duty, wind-stopping units, with or without heat, exceed the output of all existing models with higher efficiency and lower noise levels. All...

Composite Idler Pulleys & Sprockets. (Product Sourcebook).
July 1, 2002... This eight-page brochure from Fenner Drives features the Composite Idler Pulley. These pulleys are molded of glass reinforced nylon and are ideally suited for use with V-belts, flat belts, round belts, and cable in a host of industrial...