Plant Engineering articles from August 2003

Plant Engineering archives from August 2003

Online.
August 1, 2003... Online Exclusive Operational Reliability Maturity Continuum: Part 9 Dave Army of Strategic Asset Management Inc. discusses work execution in the ninth installment of the series. He says that planning and scheduling efforts can come...

Employment paradox.(Reader Feedback)(Letter to the Editor)
August 1, 2003... * I just finished reading your article (in the June issue) titled 'Employment Paradox' and am concerned that there may be more to this problem than available, skilled, warm bodies. I am employed by a large international company with many...

In waiting mode for high demand.(Forum)
August 1, 2003... The economic uncertainty that existed prior to the U.S. bombing of Iraq has dissipated. Yet, an unleashing of pent-up demand has not occurred as some pundits expected. Indeed, more than half of the industries in our construction supplies index...

Story time.(Comment)
August 1, 2003... The other day, I found myself reminiscing and story telling with a business associate. After he left I thought, "Well, that was fun for me, but he was probably bored silly with all those stories about the old days." But then I decided it wasn't...

Tracking trends: predictions for instrumentation, data acquisition, sensors, and networking.(Plant Electronics)
August 1, 2003... New implementations of industrial temperature control loops by electronic temperature controllers are expected to decline through 2005, according to a study by Venture Development Corp. (VDC), Natick, MA. The study indicated that a growing...

Company lay off: senior worker's name on list.(Human Side)(Brief Article)
August 1, 2003... When a big order was cancelled, Plant Engineer Arthur Edelstein instructed Maintenance Supervisor Pete Braddock to lay off three men. Braddock ran his eye down the roster and settled on a setup man, a mechanic, and a welder. Their names...

Qualified job candidate: would she stay long enough?(Human Side)(what questions can you ask in an interview)
August 1, 2003... Administrative Aide Ellen Burnside had held a critical job in the maintenance department for nine years. One day she informed Maintenance Supervisor Ed Gulletsin that the family was relocating to California where her husband had been offered a...

When holiday and vacation coincide.(Human Side)(paying wages for overlapped holidays and vacations)(Brief Article)
August 1, 2003... An executive meeting was held June 5 to determine how the company could best respond to a recent business decline. "From the looks of things," Plant Manager Jeff Dollowitz told the group, "the slump will continue through July and August."...

McKuen vs. Mullen.(Human Side)
August 1, 2003... Two maintenance department mechanics were working on a repair in the production department when Joe McKuen asked Art Mullen what he thought about what was happening in the world. "The only thing I know," Mullen replied, "was that Bush...

Company paying for off-hours training?(Human Side)(Brief Article)
August 1, 2003... Maintenance Supervisor Harry Hannahan set down the report he had been scanning to give Tony Camino his full attention. The Grade II Machine Repairman passed the paycheck he had just received to his boss. "I wasn't paid for last Saturday."...

Make sure that final means final.(Human Side)(final warning must be followed by termination at next occurrence)(Brief Article)
August 1, 2003... Maintenance Foreman Chuck Kowalsky instructed his assistant, "Assign Anderson to the Number Two lab." "Anderson hasn't come in yet." "Damn!" Kowalsky glanced at his wrist. It was 8:26. The shift began at eight sharp. "This is...

War and the toll it can take on innocent people.(Human Side)(Brief Article)
August 1, 2003... How much of the world's trouble and turmoil is attributable to mindless hatred? Electrician Grade A, Iraqi-born Muhammad Salah, would be a good person to ask. Salah is a quiet family man who goes about his own business. Like many of his...

Can you bar union delegate from plant?(Human Side)(Brief Article)
August 1, 2003... James Creedmore, a vice president of the union that represented the company's bargaining unit employees, often visited the plant to check up on things. Creedmore didn't see eye to eye on very much with Plant Manager Charles Dumont. One day...

Moved back down.(Human Side)(Brief Article)
August 1, 2003... Twelve-year maintenance department employee Lead Carpenter Joe Finnegan had an above-average performance record. And with his seniority he was in line for promotion. Thus when a section leader job opened up, Maintenance Foreman Jimmy...

Equal opportunity and equal training.(Human Side)(Brief Article)
August 1, 2003... In an effort to upgrade the company's image, Plant Engineer Tom Traynor encouraged Maintenance Foreman Joel Justin to make all jobs as 'sexless' as possible. Thus, when an opening for Supply Room Attendant in Building Two was posted, Justin...

Switching to a lower-paying job.(Human Side)(Brief Article)
August 1, 2003... When Junior Grade Carpenter Ralph Mazorofsky was unexpectedly hospitalized, Maintenance Supervisor Jack Rose found himself in a bind. Rose scanned the roster and couldn't find another junior-grade carpenter who could be spared to take over...

Performance contracting: gaining competitive advantage.(Management Side)
August 1, 2003... Editor's note: This is the second of a two-part series. Clearly, there is no universal best approach for performance contracting. The specifics of your strategy, situation, and goals ultimately must dictate your approach. However, my...

Maintenance tips & tricks: apply these tips to save time, money, and aggravation. Use the special ballot to help select the "Maintenance Tip of the Year.".
August 1, 2003... RETURN YOUR BALLOT BY AUGUST 29, 2003, (The ballot follows p 62) Time-conserving, money-saving, aggravation-avoiding ideas for solving typical maintenance problems should be shared with others in the plant engineering profession. This...

Gasket selection after asbestos.(Fluid Handling/Maintenance)(choosing the right gasket material for your application)
August 1, 2003... Key Concepts * Tests help in deciding which gasket material to use. * There are five basic gasket materials to choose from * It is economical to standardize on one gasket material. Not too many years ago, selecting the right...

What to expect from an air audit.(Compressors)(pneumatic systems audits can improve energy efficiency and reduce costs)
August 1, 2003... Key Concepts * Air Audits offer an oppurtunity to improve productivity while reducing operating cost. * Complete air audits must include the supply and demand sides of a system. * Choose an auditing firm with experience in your...

Green roofs offer environmentally friendly alternative.(roofs covered with vegetation worth considering)
August 1, 2003... A green roof--also called an eco-roof, nature roof, or living roof--is simply a roof that's covered with some sort of plant material (green being just one of the possible colors). The name is a reference to the environmentally friendly "green"...

Outdoor lighting considerations.(Reference File)
August 1, 2003... Whether lighting the front office facade, employee parking lot, storage yard, or flagpole, outdoor lighting requires that plant engineers follow certain guidelines. Outdoor lighting should be more than just decorative. Safety, security,...

Turbomachinery.(Power transmission: symposium)
August 1, 2003... The Turbomachinery Laboratory at Texas A&M University is sponsoring the 32nd Turbomachinery Symposium. It will be held Sept. 8-11 at the Brown Convention Center in Houston, TX. The conference is billed as an essential meeting ground for users...

T-slot demo van.(Power transmission: suggestions)
August 1, 2003... A demonstration van and gumey feature over 4000 fractional and metric components and accessories including T-slotted aluminum extrusions, fasteners, bearings, joining plates, and panels. Onsite demonstrations, available by request, offer...

Linear motion web site.(Power transmission: suggestions)
August 1, 2003... DanaherMotion.com/lms is a web site that offers 198,000 page-links full of accurate information on linear motion systems and products in a reliable and easy-to-use format. Product specifications, technical data, and part drawings are available...

Pneumatic lockout.(Power transmission: products)
August 1, 2003... Pneumatic Quick-Disconnect Lock-out provides for worker safety by isolating equipment from compressed air sources in an innovative, practical manner. The center of the device fits over an air hose, and a built-in loop makes it possible to hang...

Brake-by-wire.(Power transmission: products)
August 1, 2003... Braketronic Controller is an innovative electronic braking system that provides variable torque control to shoe and disk brakes. The device is designed to replace high-maintenance hydraulic systems. Single or multiple brakes can be...

Sealed chain.(Power transmission: products)
August 1, 2003... Dust Stopper Chain is a prelubricated roller chain that seals out dust and debris. A one-piece, powdered metal bushing/roller impregnated with oil is designed for applications where relubrication is difficult or impossible. Chain is available...

Bronze bushings.(Power transmission: products)
August 1, 2003... LD heavy-duty, wear-resistant, bronze bushings feature perforated solid strip construction for longer lubrication intervals than indented, monometal plain bearings. Designed for use with oil, grease, or process fluids, the bushings provide...

Precision levelers.(Power transmission: products)
August 1, 2003... Wedgmount Precision Levelers compensate for uneven floors by providing up to 3 deg of self-alignment and vertical adjustability from 3/8 in. to 1 in. with 0.0004 in. of accuracy using a box wrench. The units feature a series of interlocking,...

Select gauges.(Power transmission: literature)
August 1, 2003... Stainless steel pressure gauges catalog contains the information an end user needs to select from five models: general purpose, general purpose with adjustable pointer, solid front safety, miniature, and low pressure. Technical data is provided...

Hydraulic power packs.(Power transmission: literature)
August 1, 2003... A 12-p brochure explains the features and benefits of a line of power packs. Color photos show sizes and styles..The units incorporate variable displacement pumps and valve options for working pressures up to 3000 psi. Tank capacities are...

Online training.(HVAC: training)
August 1, 2003... RETA Online Training offers refrigeration operators quality RETA training material at any location where there is internet access. The training program increases operator skill levels while reducing training costs and record-keeping hassles....

R-410A training.(HVAC: training)
August 1, 2003... An interactive CD-ROM provides the necessary training and knowledge to safely perform service on systems containing R-410A and R-407C. There is information on: R-22 phase-out, refrigerant and oil applications, service techniques, and safe...

Hands-on training.(HVAC: training)
August 1, 2003... Three-day seminar provides a thorough foundation on the basics of air conditioning and refrigeration. It supplies an excellent blend of theory with job-qualifying skill development using hands-on equipment. The seminar presents a basis of...

Cooling fans.(HVAC: products)
August 1, 2003... The Little Ass Fan uses the same patented blade design as the wickerbill fan and can be hung as a ceiling fan or used as a vertical fan. In a mezzanine, it can be positioned at any angle to provide comfort for employees by moving a gentle,...

Spot cooling.(HVAC: products)
August 1, 2003... UniSpot industrial spot cooling eliminates the need to air condition an entire factory floor or workspace, and greatly reduces utility costs. The approach targets airflow to the worker and provides a highly adaptable and flexible solfition to...

Office cooling.(HVAC: products)
August 1, 2003... OfficePro 10 offers a fully integrated air exhaust system. It features built-in supply and return air flow to the condenser, drawing on outside air to cool the condenser and exhausting hot air out of the room. The self-contained unit requires...

Collect fumes.(HVAC: products)
August 1, 2003... Zephyr II is a portable fume and dust collector that combines 3-stage filtration with versatile performance and ease of use. The unit uses 110-V power and compressed air. The main filter, which uses a reverse-pulse cleaning system, offers...

Catalog and brochure.(HVAC: literature)
August 1, 2003... 24-p catalog has details on ultraviolet and UV/blue light lamps, fluorescent dyes, and dye injection hardware. Featured are 14 technical tips to make servicing easier and safer. A 6-p brochure explains why fluorescent leak detection is the only...

Guide to IAQ.(HVAC: literature)
August 1, 2003... A Reference Guide to Indoor Air Quality is an 8-p, pocket-sized guide that provides a glossary of common industry terms, formulas and conversion charts, a chart on typical particulate sizes, and technical data, including the superiority of...

Cartridge filters.(HVAC: literature)
August 1, 2003... A Cartridge Filter brochure highlights product features, operational advantages, and technical specifications. Cartridge filters provide superior dust collection efficiency, unsurpassed performance, and value for a wide range of applications....

High-efficiency filters.(Compressors: products)
August 1, 2003... 12E Series filter-regulators are designed to capture rust and pipe scale particles and continually remove oil and water contaminants at an efficiency of 99.99%+ at 0.01 microns from the compressed air supply while providing extremely accurate...

Energy-saving dryers.(Compressors: products)
August 1, 2003... Use onsite cooling energy to remove moisture, solid contaminants, and oil vapor from compressed air with a CDA Alternate Cooling Source Dryer. Designs that use ammonia (CDAN) or water/glycol (CDAW) have flow capacities from 75 to 19,200 scfm at...

Confidential.(Compressors: benchmarking)
August 1, 2003... Benchmark your compressed air system and get a free copy of the World Class Compressed Air System benchmark report, "10 Action Steps for a World Class Compressed Air System," and a free LeakZone.com publication of 100 top leak detection &...

Compressed air treatment.(Compressors: literature)
August 1, 2003... An 8-p, full color guide, "Meeting Your Compressed Air Needs," clearly explains the latest advancements in dryers and filters and discusses other fundamental components such as aftercoolers and traps. It provides valuable insight to compressed...

Separator information.(Compressors: literature)
August 1, 2003... A color brochure describes the complete line of WrightAustin Gas/Liquid Separators. It explains how the separators remove over 99% of liquid and particulate matter from air, gas, and steam lines, protecting expensive system components from...

Low harmonic ac drive.(Electrical: products)
August 1, 2003... HR1018 is an 18-pulse ac drive that reduces the total harmonic distortion (THD) associated with drives that employ fewer pulses. Reducing THD minimizes interference problems in environments with sensitive electronic equipment and minimizes...

Busway systems.(Electrical: literature)
August 1, 2003... An 8-p brochure features a complete line of nonsegregated phase busways for interconnecting groups of metal-enclosed or metal-clad switchgear, power transformers, and related electrical equipment. The brochure explains that Busway systems are...

Onsite electrical power generation.(Electrical: literature)
August 1, 2003... A brochure describes the full line of products available for onsite power generation applications. The brochure highlights benefits of generator sets powered by diesel engines, spark-ignited and lean-burn natural gas engines, and microturbines....

Pad-mounted switchgear.(Electrical: literature)
August 1, 2003... A ratings chart and model guide are featured in a vacuum fault interrupter pad-mounted switchgear brochure. The color bulletin includes detailed information on the visible break design feature, deadfront construction, DA accessory capabilities,...

Motor plug.(Electrical: literature)
August 1, 2003... Informational brochure details the benefits of using switch-rated plugs and receptacles to connect motors and other equipment. Advantages include reduced downtime and increased safety while complying with NFPA and NEC regulations. The brochure...

Washdown products.(Electrical: literature)
August 1, 2003... A 40-p, full-color brochure is available on a broad line of washdown-duty products. The brochure features an exploded view of a 3-phase washdown-duty motor with callout text describing each feature. Descriptions of single and 3-phase...

Noncontact current detector.(Instruments & controls: products)
August 1, 2003... DA30 is a noncontact current detector that locates current flow even where voltage detectors cannot work. The unit detects ac current from 200 mA to 1000 A through shielded wires, conduit, and metal circuit breaker junction boxes. Sensitivity...

Ethernet interface.(Instruments & controls: products)
August 1, 2003... The 1761-NET-ENI Series B module allows any computer on the connected Ethernet network to access controllers, allowing users to link without running additional network drops. This allows production data, alarm messages, or other status...

Power meter.(Instruments & controls: products)
August 1, 2003... Power Meter 800 features easY-to-read, large characters and offers users the ability to view current or voltage for all three phases, plus neutral, at one time. The meter combines data collection capabilities with proprietary firmware, giving...

Signal conditioner.(Instruments & controls: products)
August 1, 2003... Waveanalog OLP is an output loop-powered signal conditioner for use in converting and isolating control signals while deriving the power to operate from the output 4-20-mA current loop. This feature simplifies most applications by eliminating...

Handheld manometer.(Instruments & controls: products)
August 1, 2003... HHP680, a low-cost, versatile, handheld manometer, is portable and simple to use. It comes with tubing, fitting, soft carrying case, and batteries. Typical applications include HVAC, commercial, industrial, and automotive. OMEGA...

Compact data loggers.(Instruments & controls: products)
August 1, 2003... TK500 and SK500 are compact, economical data loggers that feature tractability to NIST and sizes slightly larger than a quarter. TK500 is used for temperature applications; SK500 is used for humidity applications. Models feature delayed-start...

Sensor catalog.(Instruments & controls: literature)
August 1, 2003... Sensor Solutions for the Automation Industry is a 447-p catalog that has been updated for 2003 and provides technical information on sensor products offered by the company. Products are divided into four sensor technology categories: inductive...

Heat and control catalog.(Instruments & controls: literature)
August 1, 2003... The Big Red Book is an 892-p catalog that includes technical specifications and application information on more than 30,000 industrial products. This heat and control systems catalog provides installation tips, reference guides, process...

Timers and controls catalog.(Instruments & controls: literature)
August 1, 2003... Proximity Controls catalog, new for 2003, focuses on position indicators, switches, transmitters, and industrial level controls. The catalog includes technical and application information. It also contains information on the company's new VPS...

Flat panel monitors.(Software & computers: products)
August 1, 2003... Near Field Imaging (NFI) technology is built into a line of 28 new flat panel monitors. The touch screens offer durability beyond that of traditional capacitive touch screens, and can be used with almost any stylus or a gloved hand. Available...

Extended software capabilities.(Software & computers: products)
August 1, 2003... System 1 version 4.0 is an updated plant asset management (PAM) software program. The new version features new capabilities that allow additional connectivity to the company's data sources, as well as sources from other companies. It also...

Internet connection: visit the following company web sites.
August 1, 2003... abb-drives.com Site serves current and prospective customers with easily accessible, accurate, consistent, up-to-date information on the full range of ABB drives and motors. ABB Inc. aearo.com Aearo is an ISO certified supplier of...

Serious cleaning power.(Product Mart Showcase)
August 1, 2003... Hillyard has put their 95 years of experience to work to help tackle your toughest industrial cleaning problems with the I-Force[TM] line of products. Send for your free 16-page I-Force brochure today or call 800-365-1555, exten. 8293 ...

Eagle expands line of cigarette disposal products.(Product Mart Showcase)
August 1, 2003... Since 1965 Eagle has provided products for the safe disposal of cigarette and cigar butts. Now Eagle has the Original Butt Can, the Poly/Metal Butt Can and the SafeSmoker[TM]. For a complete listing of these new products go to www.eagle-mfg.com...

New, improved RPP[TM] Panther[R] High Torque Synchronous Drive Belts with ULTRA-CORD[TM] and Able[TM] offer high strength and greater dimensional stability.(Product Mart Showcase)
August 1, 2003... New, improved RPP[TM] Panther[R] High Torque Synchronous Drive Belts with ULTRA-CORD[TM] and Able[TM] offer high strength and greater dimensional stability. Allows 20% higher power transmission levels. Write No. 402 [ILLUSTRATION...

Small powerful computers.(Product Mart Showcase)
August 1, 2003... * SMALL SIZE--LITTLE PC * PENTIUM 3 & 4--PROCESSORS * LAN, USB, FIREWIRE, AUDIO, SERIAL, VIDEO * RUGGED ALUMINUM ENCLOSURE * COMPATIBLE WITH WINDOWS, LINUX etc. * Built-in CD-ROM or optional DVD or CD/RW Stealth is an...

Hannay's N400 Series designed for twin gas welding hose.(Product Mart Showcase)
August 1, 2003... Hannay N400 Series gas welding reels are specifically designed to improve the efficiency of welding operations, the reel handles 1/4" or 3/8" oxygen/gas dual hose in lengths of up to 100 ft, and features two swivel joint inlets and two outlet...

Just released bolting solutions catalog!(Product Mart Showcase)
August 1, 2003... Catalog contains technical information on mechanical stud/bolt tensioners including new High Temperature designs, updated installation and removal procedure and many application examples. Superbolt[R] products retrofit your existing nuts and...

Electrical enclosure cooling.(Product Mart Showcase)
August 1, 2003... Vortex Coolers[TM] are the affordable, easy-to-install solution to over-heated electrical control panels. The thermostatically controlled, UL-listed coolers use vortex tube technology to convert factory compressed air into refrigerated air to...

Krytox[R] Fluorinated lubricants.(Product Mart Showcase)
August 1, 2003... Krytox[R] Fluorinated Greases and Oils are chemically inert, insoluble in common solvents. Temperature range -103[degrees] to 800[degrees]F. Compatible with plastics, rubber, ceramics and metals. Nonflammable, oxygen compatible, no silicones or...

The Model 460 Voltage Monitor.(Product Mart Showcase)
August 1, 2003... The Model 460 Three Phase Voltage Monitor combines unsurpassed motor protection and control with finger-safe wiring, DIN rail compatibility, and LED fault indication. It can be connected directly to the three phase lines without fuses,...

Universal belts that beat the competition.(Product Mart Showcase)
August 1, 2003... BlackHawk Pd[TM] reinforced straight tooth timing belts made with the same material as our premium Eagle Pd[TM] belts. And WhiteHawk Pd[TM] belts with a unique tooth design that makes them suitable for virtually every high capacity synchronous...

Evaluate your maintenance force.(Product Mart Showcase)
August 1, 2003... Catalog shows how to evaluate your workforce with pay-for-skills and knowledge tests for maintenance employees. Mechanical, Electrical, Machinist, Electronics, Building Maintenance, Print Reading Tests and more, for use in assessment or...

New Swagelok[R] modular platform components.(Product Mart Showcase)
August 1, 2003... New Swagelok modular platform components, together with new configurator software, make it easy to develop and assemble complete process analyzer and sample-handling systems using an ANSI/ISA 76.00.02-compliant miniature modular design. Thanks...

Webb-Stiles Company.(Product Mart Showcase)
August 1, 2003... Industry Standard three, four and six inch OVERHEAD TROLLEY 47 years of serving industry with a full line of overhead trolley systems and components. See all our capabilities at Webb-Stiles.com Webb-Stiles Company Valley City, OH...

Air Kits.(Product Mart Showcase)
August 1, 2003... Air Kits are ideal for use in ovens, dryers, air-handlers, built-up plenum systems, and applications where even air distribution is critical and where plenum construction and space limitations favor slower speed, center-hung fan designs....

Fieldbus plug connectors.(Product Mart Showcase)
August 1, 2003... Fieldbus plug connectors for harsh environment applications include connectors for Interbus, Profibus, and CANopen systems. The connectors incorporate EMC shielding protection, terminating resistors and an IP67 rated plastic connector. In...

Interroll provides lightweight stainless steel belt drive for food applications.(Product Mart Showcase)
August 1, 2003... Interroll Corporation, a leading manufacturer of conveyor components, now provides a high-power, lightweight stainless steel belt drive specifically designed for food applications. Originally a 50-pound motorized roller, the new version weighs...

Reliability.iQ.(Product Mart Showcase)
August 1, 2003... Reliability.iQ from HSB Reliability Systems Group (www.HSBRS.com) offers real-time reliability data with this real world CMMS/EAM. Reliability.iQ surpasses "Web-enabled" software and harnesses the power of the Internet. Clients easily access...

I-Data Estimator.(Product Mart Showcase)
August 1, 2003... Alias Limited has recently developed a system that can utilise ISOGEN piping output data from a 3D plant design system and merge it with material and activity cost data. The ability to do this enables plant design engineers to produce bid...

Shepard Niles: still going strong after 100 years.(Product Mart Showcase)
August 1, 2003... YOUR SOURCE FOR GENUINE SHEPARD NILES REPLACEMENT PARTS, NEW HEAVY DUTY HOISTS AND RELIABLE HOIST REBUILDS. PHONE: 607-535-7111 TOLL FREE: 800-481-2260 FAX: 607-535-6534 WWW.SHEPARD-NILES.COM SHEPARD NILES is a service of...