Industrial Maintenance & Plant Operation articles from November 2004

Industrial Maintenance & Plant Operation archives from November 2004

Linear actuator.
November 1, 2004... This hybrid linear actuator features a compact optical incremental encoder. The motor uses a threaded rotor in conjunction with a leadscrew-shaft for rapid linear movement in two directions. It is suitable for valve control, medical equipment,...

Sorbent canister system.
November 1, 2004... The Camsorb sorbent canister system removes gas and vapor loads in HVAC systems where automobile fumes, diesel engine fumes, and industrial emissions and odors are present. The system uses cylindrical canisters, which can be installed in...

Generator set.
November 1, 2004... The Generator Set Start Module assists and generator set's starting batteries. Redundant starting power is supplied directly from the UPS output. The unit features diode that allows for battery paralleling, and status contact. It is rated for...

Supply chain's strong new link.(Editorial Comments)
November 1, 2004... You'll learn in this month's cover story that RFID is not the only noteworthy trend in warehousing and distribution, but it is getting the most attention. Since Wal-Mart's 2003 demand that its top 100 suppliers apply RFID tags on shipping cases...

Nation's largest steel company to be sold to Dutch group.(Industry Newsline)
November 1, 2004... International Steel Group, Inc. (ISG), said last month it will be acquired by LNM Group, a Dutch holding company. Headquartered in Richfield, OH, ISG became the largest steel company in the U.S. in 2002 when it purchased the remains of the...

GE Energy reports $1.3 billion in wind-energy contracts and commitments.(Industry Newsline)
November 1, 2004... GE Energy said last month it had secured $1.3 billion worth of contracts and commitments to supply more than 1,500 megawatts of wind turbines for new projects in the U.S. The contracts are for projects in Iowa, Minnesota, Idaho, Texas,...

Survey: manufacturer expectations up for own companies, down for economy.(Industry Newsline)
November 1, 2004... In a new survey, industrial manufacturing executives expressed growing confidence in the ability of their own companies to perform well over the next 12 months, but did not feel the same about the general economy. According to the...

Airbus might build U.S. assembly plant.(Industry Newsline)
November 1, 2004... Airplane builder Airbus said last month it will consider building an aircraft assembly line in the U.S. if it wins a $23 billion contract to build airborne refueling tankers for the U.S. Air Force. The European-based conglomerate is in...

New manufacturing program funded by DOL.(Industry Newsline)
November 1, 2004... The U.S. Department of Labor announced the Advanced Manufacturing Initiative last month, a new program that earmarks more than $24.2 million for worker training. The grants are intended to provide workers with the skills they need to take...

EPA settles with CITGO over pollution from six refineries.(Industry Newsline)
November 1, 2004... The Department of Justice and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) settled with CITGO Petroleum Corp. last month over pollution from six of its petroleum refineries in five states. The settlement is intended to reduce harmful air...

John Deere.
November 1, 2004... John Deere celebrated the completion of its 5 millionth engine last month at its Engine Works facility in Waterloo, IA. The Moline, IL-based manufacturer has been building engines since 1918. It currently makes gasoline, diesel and natural-gas...

Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day.
November 1, 2004... The fifth annual Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day is scheduled for Feb. 24, 2005, as part of Engineers Week (Feb. 20-26). Hundreds of organizations worldwide are expected to participate in the effort to raise interest in engineering among...

Lean Enterprise Institute.
November 1, 2004... The Lean Enterprise Institute has published the second edition of its Lean Lexicon: A Graphical Glossary for Lean Thinkers. The illustrated publication includes a pronunciation guide to Japanese words and expanded definitions of terms and...

Freedonia Group.
November 1, 2004... U.S. demand for food additives is projected to increase 4.8% to nearly $5.1 billion in 2008, according to a new study from the Freedonia Group. Gains will be spurred not only by increased levels of food production, but by growth in demand for...

National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).
November 1, 2004... The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) released a draft set of cyber security requirements for industrial-control systems last month that will help protect the nation's industrial infrastructure from cyber attacks. Based on...

FedEx Express.
November 1, 2004... FedEx Express said last month it will construct California's largest corporate solar-electric system atop its hub at Oakland International Airport. The 904-kw solar array will provide approximately 80% of the peak load demand for the company's...

Calendar.(Calendar)
November 1, 2004... * Nov. 7-11 * Pack Expo International; Chicago, IL; 703-205-0923; packexpo.com. * Nov. 8-11 * 8th Annual Best Maintenance Practices; Institute for International Research; Houston, TX; 800-345-8016; iirusa.com. * Nov. 14-17 * STAFDA...

Flow-control valve.(Valves)
November 1, 2004... The Check-Trol, a three-in-one isolation flow-control valve combines the features of a flow-control valve, isolation valve and companion flange in a single valve. An internal spring check prevents gravity circulation and flow in the wrong...

Blowdown valve.(Valves)
November 1, 2004... This continuous blowdown valve, made of forged steel, is designed for over-the-seat flow. Features include a valve-stem position indicator, graphitic packing, stub ACME bonnet threads and a locking collar on un-welded bonnets. Other features...

Miniature check valve.(Valves)
November 1, 2004... The CKV-M3 ultra-miniature duckbill check valve is designed for gas and pneumatic applications, and is suitable for applications that cannot tolerate leaks or back flow. It incorporates an elastomeric duckbill. This check valve is available...

Solenoid valve.(Valves)
November 1, 2004... The solenoid valve, available in 2-, 3- and 4-way configurations, handles fluid-control applications. The electromagnetic part of the valve is comprised of a coil, coretube, core and enclosure. Each model uses auxiliary compressed air or water...

Hand-pallet truck.(Show preview: ProMat 2005, Chicago, IL January 10-13)
November 1, 2004... The TM55 hand-pallet truck is a lightweight hand-pallet truck that features a Fast-Lift pump for lifting and controlled lowering. The 5,500-lb. capacity truck has C-shaped forks and non-leaking seals. The ergonomic handle has a patented...

Container.(Show preview: ProMat 2005, Chicago, IL January 10-13)
November 1, 2004... The FlapNest 2115 Series container has a leak-resistant, attached lid, and all-plastic hinges. The ergonomic handle includes a deeper contoured handle with greater access when nested. The container can be secured with strapping, tie wraps and...

Pallet.(Show preview: ProMat 2005, Chicago, IL January 10-13)
November 1, 2004... The Stak System adjustable storage system is an integrated, single-operator system for the storage, retrieval and staging of items weighing up to 4,000 lbs. It features a lifting and handling device that does not require forklift skills to use,...

Rugged computer.(Show preview: ProMat 2005, Chicago, IL January 10-13)
November 1, 2004... The GX series of rugged computers feature touchscreen operation and wireless connectivity. Units also offer an optional wireless radio, a resistive touchscreen, and multiple industry standard I/O. It is suitable for limit ed-space applications...

Drum dumper.(Show preview: ProMat 2005, Chicago, IL January 10-13)
November 1, 2004... The portable TD-850 drum dumper allows the operator to pick up drums, mix contents, and pour or dump them. It handles 55-gal. steel, fiber, and plastic drums, and can be ordered in counter-balanced or straddle-leg configurations. Features...

Release handle.(Show preview: ProMat 2005, Chicago, IL January 10-13)
November 1, 2004... The Universal release handle operates with the vertical pendant arm system. The handle releases the locked pendant arm so the operator can reposition the control panel to a new height or position. The handle can be installed in several...

Trends in warehousing and distribution: competition, customer demands and sophisticated tools like RFID are bringing new efficiencies to distribution operations that will benefit manufacturers at all levels.(Cover Story)
November 1, 2004... In the past decade, warehousing and distribution operations have had to cope with a variety of emerging business trends and forces. The days of straight fulfillment operations have given way to a more complex world. Buying habits have...

Back-up power module.(Buildings & Ground Maintenance)
November 1, 2004... The POWERCACHE ultracapacitor-based backup power module provides a space-saving, maintenance-free alternative batteries for short-term "bridge" power in uninterruptible power-supply (UPS) systems for industrial applications. The rack-mount, 48v...

Latch.(Buildings & Ground Maintenance)
November 1, 2004... Additions to the Vise Action Compression Latch series include a manually operated knob series in large and small sizes, and multiple key- and tool-operated versions. The latches combine non-scrape compression with the strength,...

Pressure washer.(Buildings & Ground Maintenance)
November 1, 2004... The SLX portable hot-water pressure washer is suitable for cleaning fifth wheels and other grease-cleaning tasks that require enough heat to melt away grime. It features a giant heating coil enclosed in a stainless steel wrap, consisting of...

Steel stairway.(Buildings & Ground Maintenance)
November 1, 2004... Code-approved heavy-gauge steel stairways are designed for indoor or outdoor applications including mezzanines, loading dock areas, work platforms, conveyor crossovers, fire exits, in-plant offices, and elevated work areas. They are offered...

Dust-collection system improves plant's air quality inside and out.(Field Report)
November 1, 2004... Dust collection from melt and holding furnaces had been an issue for the Alcan, Inc., beverage-can recycling plant in Berea, KY. But the air inside the facility is now cleaner after a December 2003 installation of a CECOaire Fabric Dust...

Data cable.(Product News)
November 1, 2004... Data Tuff data cables feature two-pair and four-pair Category 5e cables, which function during electromagnetic or radio frequency interference. They are constructed to withstand oil, sunlight, temperature variations, abrasion and crushing. ...

Counter flow probe.(Product News)
November 1, 2004... The AP-57 Counter Flow Probe can locate leaks that are out-of-sight or in confined spaces. The detector emits a signal when the tip of the probe is placed in front of the leak. A pump then purges the probe. Sensistor Technologies, Inc. ...

Valve catalog.(New Literature)
November 1, 2004... The 24/7 Catalog includes information on Skinner and Gold Ring solenoid valves, which are suitable for process control, beverage dispensing, and industrial equipment. The literature includes product information, specifications and ordering...

Warning-label brochure.(New Literature)
November 1, 2004... Literature describing arc-flash warning labels and related products is available. It provides an overview of the "Warning" and "Danger" labels, and includes information on industrial printers for companies that want to make their own labels. It...

Single-source guide.(New Literature)
November 1, 2004... Organized into Construction, Food Processing, Industrial/MRO, and New Product sections, this guide features a "one-stop-shop" resource center and index. The Industrial/MRO section includes paints, chemicals, cleaners, caulks and applicators....

Electric motor handbook.(New Literature)
November 1, 2004... This 96-page booklet includes articles on electric-motor selection, how an electric motor works, application, protection and control, maintenance, and troubleshooting in modern electrical systems. Special sections include an electric motor Q&A;...

Bonding system.(Product News)
November 1, 2004... The HiPURformer polyurethane bonding system applies Titebond polyurethane hot-melt adhesives to wood and other substrates like metal and plastic. The FLX-Valve technology features a check valve located in the base of the cartridge tip. It is...

Storage cabinet.(Product News)
November 1, 2004... This storage cabinet combines drawer, shelf and wardrobe storage all in one, in four models. It features a three-point door-locking device, four half shelves, and double doors. The drawers glide on ball-bearing rollers. Lyon Workspace...

Blow-off nozzles.(Product News)
November 1, 2004... The AJ 150 line of air blow-off nozzles delivers compressed air in a flat pattern. Made of Polyacetal, the nozzles can be used to create an air curtain when mounted side by side. Configured for connection to pipe threads, the nozzles are...

Polymer metal.(Product News)
November 1, 2004... Polymer metals, such as elastomer, molymetall and sealium, feature mechanical properties suitable for industrial repair and maintenance. Elastomer, gives rubber-like texture for cable-insulation repairs; molymetall provides low coefficient of...

How to avoid pump packing failures.(Tech Check)
November 1, 2004... While mechanical seals have become a more common way to seal rotating pumping equipment, there are still many pump types--centrifugal, rotary, turbine and reciprocating--found in many industries that use compression packing. But when this type...

Guide to geared motors.(Power Transmission)
November 1, 2004... This guide details a family of motors that includes the inline helical, shaft-mounted flat, bevel-geared, and worm-geared. The guide also includes a description of brake options and other power-transmission options. It includes more than 400...

Report on drives and motors technology.(Power Transmission)
November 1, 2004... A comprehensive 64-page profile provides information on drives and motors technology. Topics include direct torque control/DTC; direct drive using permanent magnet motors for gearless applications; soft starters for high-voltage motors;...

Power-product catalog.(Power Transmission)
November 1, 2004... Edition 4 of the Total Power Quality Solutions catalog features descriptions, upgraded part specifications, enhanced technical charts and detailed photography. The 240-page catalog is divided into four sections: power quality, control-power...

Drives brochure.(Power Transmission)
November 1, 2004... A drives brochure, featuring right-angle gear drives, adjustable speed drives and linear actuators includes application photos and data for each of the products. A free CD ROM with sizing software is also included. Zero-Max, Inc. Use...

Hammer-driven tool.(Tools)
November 1, 2004... * The Powers P1000 general-purpose, hammer-driven tool is suitable for light-duty applications, such as attaching electrical fixtures * The load is set by a single hammer blow on the back end of the tool, and sets the pin flush * Uses...

Saw.(Tools)
November 1, 2004... * The FS-303 Fold-A-Saw with dimensions 14-1/2 x 2-3/4, is comprised of two folding blades that can be released with a quick-release blade mechanism * Latches keep the blade in place while it is tensioned with a fast-cam action lever ...

Disc sander.(Tools)
November 1, 2004... * The Model DS20 disc sander is a floorstand unit with a 20-in. disc * Features a tilt table with mitre gauge and reversing switch * The motor is available in 2 hp, 3 phase (220 or 440V); or 1.5 hp, single-phase (110 or 220V) *...

Pipe-grooving tool.(Tools)
November 1, 2004... * The Model VE270FSD is designed for field-roll grooving of pipe * Roll groovers rotate the pipe * The pivot-arm design facilitates roll changing * The unit is equipped with tracking rolls, allowing for hands-free grooving or...

Root-cause analysis training.(Training Aids)
November 1, 2004... The TapRooT Summit, scheduled for March 2-4, 2005, will offer sessions in safety improvement and equipment-failure analysis. They will set performance-improvement agendas for companies; discuss best practices; and facilitate networking and...

Surface-preparation training program.(Training Aids)
November 1, 2004... A 2-1/2 day surface-preparation training program is available, focusing on Blastrac equipment, Sawtec hand tools and Schmidt abrasive airblast equipment. Students will participate in classroom and hands-on instruction to learn more about...

Lockout/tagout training.(Training Aids)
November 1, 2004... Featuring 3-D animated graphics, this "Lockout-Tagout--Affected Employees Program," provides training experience on: the importance of lockout/tagout; overview of lockout/tagout procedures; and the responsibilities of affected personnel. It...

Forklift-training program.(Training Aids)
November 1, 2004... This DVD helps companies comply with OSHA's forklift training requirements. A closed-captioned program demonstrates safe forklift operation in different manufacturing and warehouse situations.The user can navigate through and access a main menu...