Industrial Maintenance & Plant Operation articles from June 2000

Industrial Maintenance & Plant Operation archives from June 2000

Editorial COMMENTS.
June 1, 2000... Crossing the Line When industrial safety issues make the national news, it's usually for the most unfortunate of reasons. Death or serious injury has resulted due to neglect, inexperience or extraordinarily sloppy work habits. It's...

3M Co. to end Scotchgard production.
June 1, 2000... The 3M Co. announced last month it will stop making most of its well-known Scotchgard stain-repellent products due to the pervasive nature of its chemical makeup. According to published reports, the company made the announcement after learning...

Overview: The China Trade Bill.
June 1, 2000... The U.S. House of Representatives approved a bill in May which would open normal trade relations with China. The Senate is expected to vote on the bill early this month, and approval is expected. Below are key aspects of the bill, its...

Lethal explosion prompts strict changes in state's chemical-reporting requirements.
June 1, 2000... A February 1999 explosion that killed five men at a Pennsylvania chemical plant has prompted state officials to enact chemical reporting procedures that would be among the toughest in the nation. The explosion at Concept Sciences, Inc.,...

Intel plans $2 billion expansion.
June 1, 2000... Intel Corp., announced last month it will invest $2 billion to expand its manufacturing operations in Rio Rancho, NM, by 1 million sq. ft. The Santa Clara, CA-based microchip producer said the expansion will create up to 1,000 new jobs over the...

Reports say Alaska Airlines mechanics ordered to let faulty jets fly.
June 1, 2000... n a federal probe of Alaska Airlines, company mechanics have claimed they were pressured to return jets to service in recent years, despite inspections that uncovered problems needing further repair. According to May reports in the Los Angeles...

Ford reduces output of its largest SUV.
June 1, 2000... Ford Motor Co. announced last month it will reduce the output of its Excursion model sports utility vehicle, the largest SUV available from any carmaker. The company cited sluggish sales as the reason for cutting production of 2001 models by...

Economy Robust Through 1Q.
June 1, 2000... The economy grew at a healthy 5.4% annual rate during the first three months of 2000, according to May figures released from the U.S. Department of Commerce. The government said consumer spending accounted for two-thirds of all economic...

Real Gross Domestic Product and Related Measures, 1Q, 2000: Percent Change from Preceding Period.
June 1, 2000... (Seasonally adjusted at annual rates) Gross domestic product (GDP) 5.4 Personal consumption expenditures 7.5 Durable goods 22.4 Non-durable goods 5.6 Services 5.6 Net exports/imports of goods and services Net...

Haier Group.
June 1, 2000... China's biggest appliance maker, the Haier Group, opened its first U.S. factory last month in Camden, SC. The $30 million operation will make refrigerators under its own brand name for sale in the U.S. The plant employs 180 workers. Haier...

Fuel Cell Energy, Inc.
June 1, 2000... Fuel Cell Energy, Inc., Danbury, CT, has won a $16.5-million contract from the U.S. Navy to build and test a diesel-fired fuel cell that can generate electricity for ships or makeshift island bases while emitting little air pollution. According...

Industrial Processing Expo.
June 1, 2000... The inaugural Industrial Processing Expo will be held at the Miami Beach Convention Center, Miami, FL, October 4-5, 2001. Targeting the Southeastern U.S., Latin American and Caribbean markets, the event was created for professionals who work...

Textron Automotive Co.
June 1, 2000... The Trim Division of Textron Automotive Co., Troy, Ml, has been selected as one of General Motors' Supplier of the Year (1999) Award winners for the second consecutive year. The division is an independent supplier of instrument panels to GM...

U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).
June 1, 2000... The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) last month presented 24 National Partner and Clean Cities Coalition annual awards. Honorees include: The Newspaper Agency Corp., Salt Lake City, UT, which uses 223 natural-gas powered vehicles to deliver...

American Water Works Association (AWWA).
June 1, 2000... The American Water Works Association (AWWA), Denver, CO, announced new efficiency standards for clothes washers. The standards are the result of negotiations between the U.S. Department of Energy, clothes-washer manufacturers and others....

LEAK DETECTION.
June 1, 2000... Orange-Colored Smoke Emitters for leak detection of high-, medium-, and low-pressure ductwork systems also work for pipelines, heat-exchangers and tanks. An orange-colored marking pinpoints the spot of the leak. The Smoke Emitters are available...

LIGHT KIT.
June 1, 2000... The Pole Trailer Light Kit improves the visibility of telecom and utility service vehicles to traffic with lights, reflectors, upright warning flags and highly reflective "Reflexite" labels with 3-in. high letters. The safety lights are...

PUMPS.
June 1, 2000... New pump models from this manufacturer include centrifugal and diaphragm pumps from 2-in, to 6-in. discharge, and from 3.5 to 50 hp. Among large dewatering pumps offered are advanced submersible models up to 95 hp.

GOGGLES.
June 1, 2000... These welding goggles provide the peripheral vision of a spectacle and the safety of a goggle. A two-piece lens, surrounded by foam rubber, along with the wide head strap and adjustable side vents to increase airflow, provide comfort. The...

FASTENING TOOLS.
June 1, 2000... Screwdrivers and nutsetters are part of the Q2 line of assembly tools, which also includes drilling tools. The Q2 Series is available in pistol, straight and angle configurations. Ergonomic features include compact size; light weight; even...

TAGS.
June 1, 2000... These property control tags are ideal for marking facility equipment. Printed with your company name and consecutive numbering, they allow easy management of assets and discourage theft. Tags come 10 to a strip and are available in either...

MANIFOLD.
June 1, 2000... The Type 925 Multifunction Supply Manifold was designed for end users and OEMs looking for dense I/P (current-to-pressure) or E/P (voltage-to-pressure) transducer grouping. Type 925 provides a common supply line. Patented individual shut-off...

PIPELINE DELUMPER.
June 1, 2000... This delumper improves process systems by alleviating blockages, enhancing smooth operation, feeding and dissolving processes and reducing solids to a uniform output size in an enclosed pipe or inline systems. The Pipeline Delumper is available...

VACUUM PUMPS.
June 1, 2000... The L Series of pneumatically driven vacuum pumps is designed to provide 30% to 70% more vacuum flow (13-32 scfm) than other models. They will handle high-leakage rates in applications such as opening and handling cartons or cases, while still...

DRUM LINERS.
June 1, 2000... The PRO55M is a smooth-walled liner designed for UN Performance Tests. Made from blow-molded, LPDE, the PRO55M protects steel drums from contaminants and keeps it recyclable. The blow-molded liner has an ultra-thin lip that prevents leakage...

HOODS.
June 1, 2000... These disposable hoods are offered in three styles and constructed of poly-coated Tyvek and Saran-coated Tyvek. The hood assembly is one-piece and can be disposed of after contamination. The hood can be used with low- or high-pressure supplied...

MULTIMETERS.
June 1, 2000... CA 5000 Series Digital Multimeters are available in 5 models. The unit features a large backlit display, clear push-button functions, large rotary range selector and dedicated push-buttons. The compact, hand-held size and shockproof rubber...

RAIL SYSTEM.
June 1, 2000... The Steel Guard modular, protective rail system provides a physical and visual barrier for people and equipment. Heavy three-rib corrugated steel rails with three bolts per rail are secured to columns. All necessary hardware is included.

HANDTRUCK WHEELS.
June 1, 2000... These cushion-tread handtruck wheels offer floor protection and maximum rolling ease. They feature a soft-tread durometer that cushions heavy loads from shocks, and vibration. The wheels weigh less than 3 lbs. each. Each wheel hub is notched.

FLOWMETER.
June 1, 2000... The PVDF Flowmeter and Accumulator for chemical processing allows a two-button control of parameters. The display turns on when flow starts and turns off after flow stops. Meters come pre-calibrated for water and can be calibrated for other...

VALVES.
June 1, 2000... Apollo 141 and 143 Series economy butterfly valves are for the industrial and HVAC/ mechanical markets. Both are rated at 200 psig bubble-tight shut-off between flanges. Their general purpose design permits use in a range of applications: hot...

CABLE STRIPPERS.
June 1, 2000... Two cable strippers are specially designed for work with non-metallic cable. The non-metallic sheathed cable strippers feature spring-loaded handles, deluxe cushion grips and wire-looping holes for comfortable, convenient use. The strippers'...

INTERFACE.
June 1, 2000... The 60 Series Bus Interface unit provides direct interface to existing M-System Signal Conditioning Series. This ensures that users can interface with any field signal. The 60 Series units can tie directly to a ModBus, Profibus, DeviceNet, or...

THERMOMETER.
June 1, 2000... The Pyrofiber(r) fiber-optic, non-contact automatic emissivity correcting, IR Thermometer incorporates a single digital and two analog outputs. The user can output both emissivity values (E) and emissivity-corrected temperature values (Te)...

VALVE.
June 1, 2000... Model MK98 is a modulating control valve with pneumatic actuator and high-flow capabilities for use on sanitary system, gas and liquid services. The valve is self-draining and crevice-free. It is comprised of a diaphragm control valve, an...

LUMINAIRE.
June 1, 2000... The Jr. [Versabeam.sup.TM] is a luminaire for retail, commercial and industrial applications. It provides optimum light levels on horizontal and vertical planes, combined with low glare and light uniformity. The reflector and acrylic refractor...

EXCHANGER TECHNOLOGY.
June 1, 2000... CFX Exchanger Technology replaces copper heat exchanger components in refrigerated dryers with corrosion resistant stainless steel. The technology reduces pressure drop and is suitable for environments where the effects of hydrogen sulfide...

TITANIUM TUBING.
June 1, 2000... Round or shaped tubing is available cut-to-length, pierced, end-finished or bent. It can be shipped in kits and delivered on a just-in-time basis. The metal-working process used can convert basic tubing shapes into finished components and...

ADHESIVES.
June 1, 2000... Threadlockers, activators/primers, cyano-acrylates (superglues), structural adhesives, anti-seize compounds, threadsealers, pipe sealants, liquid gaskets and retaining compounds are available. The company recently expanded its production...

CONDUIT THREADER.
June 1, 2000... The Model E-1 04 mini-conduit threader provides standard straight pipe threads and unified course and fine bolt threads. The threader is powered by a single phase, 1 HP universal motor. The threader features a rotating die head. PVC vise jaws...

INDUSTRIAL COMPUTERS.
June 1, 2000... The SLIN family of industrial computers, available in 4 display sizes features an Intel Pentium processor, a 3.2 GB hard disk drive, and a resistive anti-glare touchscreen. These computers are suitable for factory-floor and industrial...

DC INJECTION BRAKE.
June 1, 2000... The Waddington Dyna-Stop II is an electronic DC injection brake that monitors the rotation of a spinning AC induction motor and automatically stops it. The brake features a zero speed circuit to ensure that the braking current is removed from...

URETHANE.
June 1, 2000... Nordot(R) Urethane Adhesive is solvent-free and water-free. This one-component urethane will cure at ambient temperature to become a high-strength adhesive that is not brittle, even when cold. Nordot Adhesive # 113 adheres to wood, plastics,...

CONTROL SYSTEM.
June 1, 2000... CrossTalk, a protocol bridge for interconnecting dissimilar control system networks, allows the integration of incompatible control systems into a single backbone network. It is compatible with Modbus-based networks. Full network emulation...

POLISHING SYSTEM.
June 1, 2000... This Optics polishing system is features Microlux alumina abrasive powders offered in regular and deagglomerated grades and as water-based calcined. Applications include precision optics and bearings and semiconductor wafers.

CLEANER TOWELS.
June 1, 2000... Workplace Hand Cleaner Towels are one-step, waterless hand cleaners with proven pumice performance. Liquid hand-cleaning agents work with a heavy-duty, non-scratching abrasive hand towel to remove grit and grime.

SIGNAL CONDITIONER.
June 1, 2000... This series of signal conditioners offers dual outputs in an ultra-compact size. All models feature four-way dual output isolation and plug-in base socket or plug-in rack mounting. Input types include DC signal, RTD, Thermocouple,...

WORK LIGHTS.
June 1, 2000... The SideKick series of fluorescent portable work lights and cord reels are made for use in close or confined areas to reduce heat buildup and risk of contact with hot surfaces. The fluorescent lamps increase visibility by providing white,...

RELAYS.
June 1, 2000... The FRC7 electromechanical relays can be used for controlling smaller automotive-type accessories. Featuring silver-alloy contacts that can switch up to 75 VDC, these relays can be supplied with SPDT (1 Form A) and SPDT (1 Form C) contact...

LAMPS.
June 1, 2000... Uni-Form pulse-start systems feature lamps that include a UV Shield feature in a range of wattages in open-fixture designs. UV Shield lamps feature a formed-body arc tube with a quartz shroud that reduces ultraviolet light output by up to 80%....

CONTROL VALVE.
June 1, 2000... The VC-210B control valve is for light industrial and commercial purposes. The brass product was designed to fit into tight places yet meet heavy-duty requirements. The bellows stem seal promises zero leakage and long life even under prolonged...

BALLASTS.
June 1, 2000... SmartMate electronic ballasts can be used to operate fluorescent lamps. The ballasts are available in three models, all of which feature the company's color-coded, dual-entry connector, permitting push-in lead connection to either the side or...

BLOWER HOSE.
June 1, 2000... Type WPV Ventilation Blower Hose is designed for maximum air-handling capabilities. The hose is constructed of a vinyl/polyester material. It is built with dual-direction flow and low-friction loss. Applications include venting fumes or smoke,...

PLASMA CUTTER.
June 1, 2000... The Spectrum(R) Thunder portable air-plasma cutting product features a built-in, piston-driven air compressor. The unit is suitable for HVAC and sheet metal applications. Other features include constant pilot arc control, which minimizes tip...

MAINTENANCE KIT.
June 1, 2000... This kit is a comprehensive assortment of 29 insulated tools, all stored in a waterproof, polyethylene case. All of the tools feature two-color, double insulation. They offer protection from shock and flashover, and have been tested. Tools...

RECORDER.
June 1, 2000... The KT655 is a 6-in, microprocessor-based, two-channel temperature chart recorder with data logging capability. In addition to the paper chart record, all data can be downloaded to a PC for viewing, graphing or printing with the company's...

LABEL SOFTWARE.
June 1, 2000... Easylabel(R) 32, a bar-code labeling and product-identification software package, features a new user interface, advanced database functions and support For ActiveX controls. The interface provides thumbnail previews of formats, fonts and...

TOOLS.
June 1, 2000... The Kodiak post-hole digger (model 1709300) has cushioned dual-durometer grips to reduce hand stress and a pivot bolt engineered for capacity and leverage. The tool features heavy-duty, steel blades and contractor-grade fiberglass handles. For...

CONNECTOR.
June 1, 2000... The TOP 68 connector is an option on all the company's pH electrodes. TOP 68's waterproof design and its moisture-repellent insulation protect the connector. Internal wiring prevents the electronics from being exposed to the environment. TOP 68...

EAI SERVICES.
June 1, 2000... EAI (enterprise application integration) services include Baan, QAD, Oracle, and Fourth Shift adding labor-management function to complete the enterprise picture. When a company integrates its software into an ERP system, it allows the company...

AIR DRYER.
June 1, 2000... Model 76-100-4050 membrane air dryer is for applications requiring -40 degrees F dew-points and flow rates up to 100 SCFM. The system uses patented membrane technology, unsurpassed in performance and durability to dehydrate and purify...

PROCESSORS.
June 1, 2000... Moisture Manager Dryers provide dew-point monitoring and can operate at pre-set moisture levels. The dryers are designed with dew-point sensors to monitor dryer dew point and material dryness and signal a change in process air flow, according...

CONTROLLERS.
June 1, 2000... This software program accommodates up to 128 temperature controllers in environments where temperature monitoring is crucial. The functions of each controller can be performed directly from a computer. Temperature controllers are available in...

PUMP.
June 1, 2000... The E2 2-in. Aluminum Bolted Pump is an air-diaphragm pump. The bolted design provides sealing capabilities for liquids of low specific gravity or low viscosity. The flow-through design increases flow and particle-size passage. The water...

WRENCH SETS.
June 1, 2000... The SuperKrome(R) wrench line includes two new Flare Nut wrench sets in both fractional and metric sizes. The wrenches are designed for soft fittings and feature the SuperKrome finish for corrosion resistance and long life.

IN-PLANT SYSTEM.
June 1, 2000... This modular connection system offers the speed of pre-engineered buildings with conventional construction features. Standard features include: no binder posts, matching divider strips, high wall capability, insulated windows and unrestricted...

VALVES.
June 1, 2000... The line of Therm-O-Mix(R) and M/D valves offers temperature control for mixing/diverting. The valves are designed around the company's Thermoloid sensor/controller, and simultaneously control both hot and cold water. The valves are...

MINI DATA LOGGER.
June 1, 2000... The mini data logger can track the temperature of perishable products and record the results in a memory section. The user can set high- and low-temperature parameters and transfer this data to a PC via the Data Logger Reader. If an actual...

VERTON(R) RF COMPOSITE.
June 1, 2000... Verton(R) RF composite is a long glass-fiber reinforced nylon 6/6 composite. The material is suitable in industrial environments. It holds up under pressures of 60 psi, when polypropylene fails.

SOFT-FACE HAMMER SETS.
June 1, 2000... SPI IMPAX(R) soft-face, dead-blow hammers feature patented Smart Hammer technology that can eliminate rebound, vibration and metallic contamination. SPS Composite Soft-Face hammers are made of fiberglass with brass or steel striking faces. All...

HAND CLEANERS.
June 1, 2000... NATURALLY [TUEF.sup.TM] Orange are waterless industrial hand cleaners. The new formulation is designed to clean industrial oils, inks and greases. The formulations contain a natural d'limonene solvent, which has a fresh oranqe scent.

ROTARY CAPPING SYSTEM.
June 1, 2000... Series 4000 cappers use a collet to grip the circumference of the cap for out-of-roundness problems, especially on thin-walled and necked-in caps. These caps are suitable for paint, automotive and industrial products.

RATIO TESTERS.
June 1, 2000... Two high-speed bit error ratio testers (BERTs) are now available for characterizing, verifying, and testing optoelectronic and high-speed digital components and multiplexer and demultiplexer integrated circuits.

THERMOMETER.
June 1, 2000... The BX Plus has an internal RTD that provides remote data acquisition of temperature. The thermometer's stem may be made of aluminum, brass or 304SS. The internal RTD sensor may be either 100 or 1,000 ohms.

DATA LOGGER.
June 1, 2000... The Nanovacq data logger can be placed inside a container or a process to measure temperature and pressure. During processing, the logger is able to record the temperature and pressure, verifying that proper levels are attained.

TEMPERATURE GAUGE AND SENSOR.
June 1, 2000... This device includes an internally mounted thermocouple or RTD located within the stem, allowing for remote temperature monitoring while still providing local indication. Stem lengths range from 2 in. to 12 in.

REFRIGERANT MONITOR.
June 1, 2000... The Haloguard IR detects a specific refrigerant vapor compound. Its NEMA 4 industrial enclosure houses infrared sensing technology for monitoring R11, 12, 22, 123 and 134a as well as azeotropes and zeotropic blends.

MULTI-USE METER.
June 1, 2000... The Tri-Sense meter measures temperature, air velocity and relative humidity. The device accepts both J and K thermocouple probes equipped with ANSI miniconnectors. Measurements, calibration constants, and set up values can be stored in memory....

RECOVERY MACNINES.
June 1, 2000... The Stinger is a compact refrigerant recovery machine that is protected by a durable polymer housing. It recovers all medium- and high-pressure refrigerants. The Stinger comes with a tangle-free power cord and features a self-purging system.

DUCT FAN.
June 1, 2000... The Turbo(TM) Inline Duct Fan is designed for bathrooms, kitchens and other commercial and industrial applications. It features a non-overloading, backward-inclined wheel in the external rotor motor. Accessories available.

NEAT EXCHANGER.
June 1, 2000... Superchanger is a plate and frame heat exchanger for heat transfer from liquid to liquid or steam to liquid. It opens for access within its own footprint and is disassembled by loosening the bolts and removing the plates.

PANEL FILTERS.
June 1, 2000... On Guard industrial-strength disposable panel filters have a notched frame design with interlocking corners. The one-piece pinch frame is made of kraft board, and is sealed with polyethylene adhesive under heat and pressure, The filter is...

DUST COLLECTORS.
June 1, 2000... Gold Series cartridge dust collectors are powder-coated inside and out to protect against scratching and corrosion. The collector's patented inner-cone adds 50% more filter media area to each cartridge. Cartridges are vertically mounted.

CHILLERS.
June 1, 2000... Portable chillers ranging from 20 to 40 tons are available in the water-cooled and remote air-cooled series. The indoor air-cooled chillers incorporate centrifugal blowers for higher static pressure in ductwork.