Plant Engineering articles from October 2003

Plant Engineering archives from October 2003

Efficiency in every direction.
October 1, 2003... With everyone claiming to have the "most efficient" compressor, it's easy to get lost looking for efficiency. But if your real destination is meeting production demand and reducing power consumption, then Quincy will guide you in the right...

What's new at omega.com[R].
October 1, 2003... OMEGA's Unique RTD Connector-Transmitter [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] SPRTX Series - Converts an RTD Signal into a Temperature Output! * Each Complete Fully Assembled Unit Includes Connector, Transmitter, and Cable - Just Plug In Your...

Now you can analyze, diagnose, drain, filter and install in one simple step.
October 1, 2003... Just call Shell Lubricants. Our on-site filtration and reclamation will reduce the downtime and inefficiencies caused by contamination and poor fluid condition. Fluid problems are a major contributor to the failure of components with fine...

Not all washdown solutions are created equal.
October 1, 2003... Boston Gear provides a wide range of washdown duty gear boxes to meet the most basic, as well as the most caustic, applications in the food industry. Designed with smooth, easy-to-clean surfaces in three finish classes, Boston Gear speed...

Optimize your spray nozzles. Reduce operating costs.
October 1, 2003... Minimize downtime and boost productivity with our innovations in nozzle technology. Although your spray system may be a small part of your entire operation, it can have a major impact on product quality and productivity. At Spraying...

Support for Energy Policy Act of 2003.(Forum)(Letter to the Editor)
October 1, 2003... Dear Editor: The U.S. Congress is seriously considering a comprehensive energy bill with an emphasis on conservation, and this should be a comfort to every American. Sponsors of the Energy Policy Act of 2003, which is presently being...

Correction.(Forum)(Correction Notice)
October 1, 2003... The article titled "Minimizing the risk of arc flash incidents" in the September issue contained an incorrect photo for Fig. 4. The correct photo and caption are below. [FIGURE 4 OMITTED]

Come hell or high water ...
October 1, 2003... Deco will deliver your heavy duty adjustable anchors--on time and to your specifications. In fact, we guarantee our ship dates. Deco anchors are engineered for strength, are adjustable up to 1/2" in every direction, and are competitively...

Improved margins for supplies.(Forum)
October 1, 2003... Margins improved for nine industries that make factory operating materials and supplies and held steady for seven others. But plant engineers still face a challenging environment for buying supplies. [GRAPHIC OMITTED] Sporting a margin...

In Kansas, you build it strong. Or you build it over.
October 1, 2003... Strength. Without it, you've got a piece of equipment that's only going to waste your time. At MAC, our pneumatic and filtration systems are engineered by people who know a thing or two about making stuff last. See for yourself when you test...

Unseen employment issues.(Comment)
October 1, 2003... Many plant engineers are looking forward to the day when business conditions improve, and they can hire one or more people to make up for staff reductions over the past couple of years. The prospect of being able to hire again is indeed a...

Reliability tool.
October 1, 2003... There is only one Genuine "Inpro[R]" Bearing Isolator. It's designed and built by the Inpro/Seal[R] Company, the original inventor and patent holder of the first Bearing Isolator and the recognized leader in the bearing protection industry. ...

The best-selling infrared cameras in the world are more affordable than ever!
October 1, 2003... BUY Want to get the best deal in town? We let you combine rental credits and trade--in allowances to get you the maximum discount! You can't afford not to call us! [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] TRADE Want to trade infrared cameras? FLIR is...

The 90-day seniority rule: Is it in effect in your plant?(Human Side)(Brief Article)
October 1, 2003... If there's one thing you can count on in this messed up universe, it is the inevitability of change. The economic climate changes, product design and content changes, customer demands change, methodology changes, and in manufacturing plants...

Employee health problems: should he be permitted to continue his job?(Human Side)(Brief Article)
October 1, 2003... Maintenance Painter Grade II Jeff Kusich had a health problem that might not have been so serious were it not for his job. He was subject to occasional fainting spells. Jeff had undergone scores of tests, from MRIs to brain scans. To date, no...

Can you subcontract a job if a competent worker objects?(Human Side)(Brief Article)
October 1, 2003... Joe Hemmer approached Maintenance Supervisor Frank Hobson's desk. "What can I do for you, Joe?" You know the imaging job that has to be done in Building Two? According to the grapevine you're planning to subcontract that out." ...

Is a paid time off plan right for you?(Human Side)(Brief Article)
October 1, 2003... Maintenance Department Painter Tom Herroldson didn't confine his painting expertise to the job. He was an amateur artist in his spare time, watercolor and oils. His hobby was important to him. One day he approached his boss's desk and...

Case lost at arbitration.(Human Side)(Brief Article)
October 1, 2003... When a group leader opening unexpectedly occurred, Maintenance Foreman Harry Randolph lost no time appointing Jerry Klein to the job. This brought 62-yr-old Jonas Tremark to Randolph's desk with the speed of an express train. "Jerry's...

How long can you wait when discipline is called for?(Human Side)(Brief Article)
October 1, 2003... Assistant Maintenance Foreman George Cohen reported to his boss, "Grimes and Delgado are at it again." Cohen accompanied Kreissman to the compounding lab where the two men were exchanging blows. Bitter enemies, they had clashed on previous...

Eager beaver gets promotion.(Human Side)(Brief Article)
October 1, 2003... Grade One Electrician Ed Sperling was naturally disappointed when Joe Pffening won the bid for the group leader job that had been posted. He'd had his sights set on the promotion himself. "It was a close call," Maintenance Foreman Carl...

Should work be fun?(Human Side)
October 1, 2003... Two friends, both electricians--we'll call them Jim and John--were discussing their jobs. Both were day-shift employees at midsized plants and earned comparable incomes. But Jim's job attitude was so-so; John enjoyed his job and looked forward...

How do your people feel about how you feel about them?(Human Side)
October 1, 2003... One of the biggest mistakes a manager can make is to take his people for granted. Hugh Donovan, plant engineer in a New England plant, was becoming increasingly concerned about the high incidence of turnover in the plant Engineering Department....

It's not always easy to get rid of a garnishee.(Human Side)
October 1, 2003... Question: How many garnishments must an employer endure? Sometimes one, sometimes more than one. It depends. Maintenance department carpenter Don Grubman was a big spender. His problem was that he lacked the financial resources to spend...

Supervisor pitches in.(Human Side)(Brief Article)
October 1, 2003... Maintenance Foreman John Raskin was expecting a delivery on the following day of parts. It was a small operation, and Raskin learned that the regular receiving clerk was on vacation and his replacement was out sick. The foreman checked the...

Problem Dust Collector? Meet the solutions.
October 1, 2003... Daniela C. International Marketing Communicating the products and services of BHA to the world. Daniela helps you better understand dust collection, in plain English and en Espanol. Dust Collector Accessories Engineered to...

Your source for the hardest working, highest quality bearings and a whole lot more.(Real Conditions. Real Solutions.)
October 1, 2003... If you think bearings when you hear SKF, we understand. After all, we are the world's largest manufacturer of rolling bearings, and we offer the broadest line of high quality bearings and related products in the industry. But did you know that:...

We're in the services business. We're also in the improve-your-bottom-line business.
October 1, 2003... At Timken, our Industrial Services team doesn't just work for you, they work with you, Shoulder to shoulder. In your offices. On your plant floors. Digging in and getting their hands dirty with you. Doing whatever it takes to make your business...

Celebrating 100 years.(Special, Edition)
October 1, 2003... [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] COVER PHOTO: Thomas Edison & Square D[R] Products Square D electrical products have been in use in Thomas Edison's laboratories for more than 90 years--or...

Building a new electric world.(Innovation and Leadership)(Brief Article)
October 1, 2003... For 100 years, Square D[R] products have been there with you on the factory floor, helping to keep your facilities and equipment running smoothly and productively. From our early beginnings in 1903 to our invention of the first low are...

A powerful combination.(The Brands of Schneider Electric)(Square D Company described)
October 1, 2003... For 100 years, plant engineers have counted on Square D NEMA type electrical distribution and industrial control products for market-leading quality and reliability. As one of America's most trusted brands, Square D has also set the standard...

Fortune 100 companies use Square D[R] power management. Shouldn't you?(Power Logic[R] Products)
October 1, 2003... Fortune 100 companies know how to protect their assets and drive productivity through smart strategic decisions. More than 90% of those companies share at least one strategic decision--turning to Square D[R] PowerLogic[R] products for power...

A commitment to do even more.(Everywhere you are)(Square D Co. portrayal)
October 1, 2003... Every manufacturer in the world faces the same demands: Make products faster. Make them better. Make and sell them for less. As a plant engineer, you're at the center of this pressure cooker. Taking on more responsibilities. Learning new...

Square D[R] Services.(Brief Article)
October 1, 2003... Your single source for service expertise Whether you need to improve bottom line performance, minimize downtime, increase productivity or solve power quality issues, you can rely on Square D[R] Services from Schneider Electric. ...

Real benefits, real value.(Our Latest Innovations)(Schneider Electric's Square D products)
October 1, 2003... The future of innovation isn't just a matter of making something new. It's about making something better--adding real benefits, delivering more value. Schneider Electric is meeting this challenge. Leveraging our research and development power,...

Web-enabled power and control.(Transparent Ready[TM] Products)
October 1, 2003... Information about a manufacturing process, machine, or electrical distribution system is now available where you want it... when you want it. That's right, Transparent Ready[TM], web-enabled products communicate across your existing local area...

Schneider Electric-North American Operating Division.
October 1, 2003... Introduced almost 70 years ago, the Digest remains the industry standard for electrical product information. It's your complete source for all your Square D, Telemecanique and Merlin Gerin electrical distribution, control and automation...

Their way. Our way.
October 1, 2003... If you're alarmed at the thought of investing in complicated and costly vibration analysis equipment, then wake up to the Vb Series[TM]! The Vb Series is the quickest, easiest system to use, install and support. It's simply the most streamlined...

A new breed of power supplies: industrial grade power supplies.
October 1, 2003... QUINT POWER: Tough, compact, reliable! With the second generation of QUINT POWER Supplies, Phoenix Contact raises the standard for versatility, functionality and dependability. Our compact DIN-rail mounted power supplies save space while...

Your electrical connection. Time-saving features ... Thomas & Betts quality!
October 1, 2003... Terminals. Cable ties. Cable trays. Tools. And thousands of other electrical wire and conduit termination/management products. All designed to save installation time. And all available from the company behind the industry's most trusted...

Finding it hard to hunt down elusive hot spots? What if they were a little more in your face?
October 1, 2003... Buy an E4 infrared camera value package and get a $1,600 heads-up system free. You won't miss a hot spot-or a step-with our amazing new heads-up optics system. It connects to FLIR's E4 to project real-time. Full-color infrared images right in...

Ever notice how the best ideas are always the simplest? Our modular platform components make assembling your process analyzer system incredibly simple.
October 1, 2003... The pressure to reduce costs and maintenance in analytical sampling is greater than ever. That's why we've made our Modular Platform Components. They fit the ANSI/ISA 76.00.02 standard for surface-mount sampling components. Our unique design...

Marking quality parts with quality markers.
October 1, 2003... At Diagraph, we manufacture and distribute products that help you mark, code and ship! We are always ready to assist you regarding your product needs. Since developing the first disposable industrial marker, Diagraph has led the way with...

"At over 100 decibels, this was one problem that was screaming for a solution.".(Real World Solutions # 27)
October 1, 2003... One of the nation's leading producers of agricultural products purchased a new enclosed conveyor system for their main facility in Minnesota. The resulting noise created by the two standard power transmission belts was well over 100 decibels,...

Does your equipment match your game?(Brief Article)(Advertisement)
October 1, 2003... An air compressor is an air compressor--right? In today's world, there is an air compressor that is right for each application. Gardner Denver offers you the choices necessary to insure your air system operates most efficiently. With Gardner...

Power for the here and now.
October 1, 2003... Cat[R] Rental Power Whether you're dealing with an emergency or planning a year in advance, the equipment simply has to be there when you need it. Good reason to rely on the Cat Rental Power Network. We offer: * Largest fleet of...

Measuring overall craft effectiveness are you a takeover target for contract maintenance?(Management Side)
October 1, 2003... This is the first part of a three-part series. What is overall craft effectiveness or OCE? It is very much like the concept behind the OEE factor for the calculation of overall equipment effectiveness. But OCE applies specifically to the...

Spec a belt. Let it roll.
October 1, 2003... Whether it's at a conveyor's head pulley or at the power turn drive, Gates has a high-performance belt drive system that will reduce your maintenance and downtime costs. Poly Chain[R] GT[R]2 is Gates most powerful belt and is ideally...

Spec a belt. Get a company.
October 1, 2003... Choose Gates synchronous or V-belt drive systems for your power transmission, positioning or motion control applications, and get a lot more than the industry's best belt drives. Whether you maintain equipment or design it, spec Gates and get a...

Slip-resistant metal floor plate: ideal for conveyor covers, trench & pit covers, and machine platforms.
October 1, 2003... SlipNOT Safety Flooring is a metal floor plate with a tested and proven COF far superior over diamond floor plate. [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] Our SlipNOT plate has an abrasive surface with a 4,000 PSI bond strength and a minimum of 55...

There is only one #1.
October 1, 2003... More, PASSIVE COMPONENTS More, SEMIS & PROTOTYPING More, OPTOELECTRONICS More, ELECTROMECHANICAL More, POWER PRODUCTS More, INTERCONNECT More, TOOLS More, TEST & MEASUREMENT The #1 small-quantity...

Tight situation? Add Neoflex[R] or Silflex[R] situation solved!
October 1, 2003... Neoflex[R] and Silflex[R] are the most versatile, flexible ducting products on the market. They are designed for use in heater ducts, cooling, air handling, fume control and more. [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] They are available in single or...

Is one third of a CMMS enough?(Plant Electronics)(computerized maintenance management system analyzed)
October 1, 2003... Editor's note: This is the second of a two-part series. In the eyes of some employees, a CMMS is a source of extra work for maintenance staff that is already struggling to do more with less. That's why it is vital that the CMMS is...

Save up to 45% on compressed air without the compressor room.
October 1, 2003... Less space, installation and energy than traditional compressors. Cut Life Cycle Costs... Save up to 35% with VSD technology that matches air production with demand. Save up to 10% more with WorkPlace System advantages. ...

ABB makes drives simple.
October 1, 2003... The ultimate in sophistication is simplicity. And when it comes to leadership in drive technology ABB is the only answer. We've listened closely to what you want most in a drive. Like simple set-up, easy programmability and trouble-free...

Simply amazing: introducing the ACS550 (1-550 hp).
October 1, 2003... You asked for a versatile drive loaded with features, and we've answered with the ACS550. Features such as simple controls and setup, convenient operator interface, communication interface choices and built-in EMI/RFI protection prove...

Basics of how to minimize harmonics.(Electrical/Power Quality)(related article: How active harmonic filters work)(Column)
October 1, 2003... The August 14, 2003 blackout emphasized that power quality should not be taken lightly. The blackout was caused by, and affected the power grid--our nation's electrical infrastructure. The issues raised by this event should and will come under...

Every day there are 10 arc flash incidents waiting to happen.(Facility Solutions; 53)
October 1, 2003... Arc flashes are a danger to the health and safety of service personnel working on energized equipment. What kind of safety precautions have you established within your plant? And are they in line with the standards set by NEPA 70E? ...

Improving dust collection.(HVAC)
October 1, 2003... When it comes to dust collection, the first consideration is what type of collector best fits the application. The choice comes down to the baghouse collector--which some refer to as the grand daddy of filtration technologies--or its offspring,...

Specify Aitken Heaters: for optimum performance and durability.
October 1, 2003... Aitken offers a large selection of gas infrared, electric infrared and electric fan-forced heaters. All Aitken heaters are American-made and warranted by the factory. Cataloged items are shipped within 24 hours. This guarantee applies when...

Donaldson[R] Torit[R] wrote the book on dust collection.
October 1, 2003... For the most renowned dust collectors expertly engineered for productivity, efficiency and value, go straight to the source--Donaldson[R] Torit[R]. Providing innovative dust collection solutions to manufacturers worldwide for nearly 90 years,...

Managing predictive maintenance: PdM is only effective when it's an integral component of a complete maintenance strategy.(Special Report)
October 1, 2003... In many companies today, maintenance is not treated as a strategic business function. Over the last decade, however, it has been clearly shown that maintenance has tremendous impact on a company's profitability. [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] ...

Neptune[TM] Chain: your best defense against corrosion.
October 1, 2003... Neptune Chain from U.S. Tsubaki means corrosion protection without compromise. Most manufactures inhibit rust by coating chains with hexavalent chromium--a known carcinogen--that can be harmful if inhaled or absorbed. Neptune Chain is...

Welding aluminum alloys.(Welding/Maintenance)
October 1, 2003... The question often comes up "Isn't there one filler metal I can use for all my aluminum welding?" The answer, unfortunately, is no. However, there are basic rules for filler metal selection. First, know which aluminum alloys will be welded...

HSB global standards Reliability Systems Group: your equipment is trying to tell you something. We can turn it into profitable advice.
October 1, 2003... For more than 30 years, HSB Reliability Systems Group has translated the maintenance needs of equipment into a more productive, cost-effective maintenance process. We've administered highly efficient processes for over 300 facilities...

Integrating EAM and PdM for maintenance productivity.(Software/Integration)(enterprise asset management)(predictive maintenance)
October 1, 2003... Virtually every maintenance organization in modern manufacturing plants focuses on implementing clearly defined asset management practices. Successful plant engineers are shifting more of the routine maintenance activities toward predictive...

Introducing your everyday imager.
October 1, 2003... The ThermoView Ti30 thermal imager is just what you need to make an effective predictive maintenance program easy, fast, accurate and affordable. It's the tool you'll reach for again and again--for scheduled inspections, quick spot checks, and...

Highly functional family.
October 1, 2003... What makes FLIR the hottest selling infrared cameras in the world? The best post-sale technical support, customer service and training. The widest selection of infrared camera for beginners to pros. Fast and easy report generation, that...

Flowmeters.(Reference File)(Column)
October 1, 2003... Flowmeters are used for determining the amount of product passing through a pipe for purposes of product blending, determining billing or cost, machine lubrication, process heating or cooling, and many other applications. Reliability and...

DVT provides ultra accuracy for surgical needle inspections.(Precision Measurement)
October 1, 2003... Customer Problem: A manufacturer of surgical devices needs to automate the assembly of delicate intra-ocular needles with measurement tolerances of only 1/1000th of an inch. DVT Solution: With 1280 x 1024 resolution, DVT's Legend 544...

Save $50 on each Motorola Two-Way Radio you buy!
October 1, 2003... Motorola Two-Way Radios are the affordable solution for operations that count on dependable, instant communication. Motorola radios are the clear choice to help your team work more productively. Now through the end of the year, count on...

Revolutionary design.(The Best Just got Better)
October 1, 2003... Harrington's LB lever hoists--well-known premium features and now much more! The #1 selling puller just got better. * 30% lighter in weight * Reduced size and handle length * Industry's first 2-3/4 Ton *...

Suggestions: measure flow.(Fluid Handling)
October 1, 2003... A web site, fluidcomponents.com, is a comprehensive resource that offers extensive applications, product data, and guides to selection information about measuring fluid and gas mass flow and level. The site includes an online Application...

Products: lined mag pump.(Fluid Handling)
October 1, 2003... Texel MEH Series, lined, magnetic-drive pumps provide leak-free and safe handling of high-purity fluids. Casing linings and all wetted parts are made of PVDF or ETFE to eliminate particulate shedding and ensure maximum service life. Compatible...

Products: covered tubing.(Fluid Handling)
October 1, 2003... Insulated tubing, a cost effective alternative to field-installed insulation on small-diameter process lines, reduces heat loss and protects personnel. Jacketed tubing offers corrosion and mechanical protection in applications where insulation...

Products: Constant Flow Valves.(Fluid Handling)
October 1, 2003... Constant Flow Valves provide ease of operation and maintain a constant flow when differential pressure is altered. All wetted components are made of thermoplastic and elastomeric materials. The valves enable users to preset a flow rate, with an...

Products: rupture disks.(Fluid Handling)
October 1, 2003... URA Series rupture disks, with reverse acting design, can be used in liquid or gas systems at very high or low burst ratings. They are suitable for up to 95% of typical fluid system applications, which reduces inventory. Disks range in size...

Suggestions: Punch & die sets.(Tools)
October 1, 2003... A 2-min 45-sec online video shows the features and benefits of TruPunch self-centering punch & die sets. The video is accessible through trupunch.com/video. Punch & die sets are available in three configurations. Precision Brand Products,...

Literature: Dowel pins/bushings.(Tools)
October 1, 2003... Spring Alignment Dowels/Bushings catalog shows roll-formed, hardened bushings to meet the following objectivies: align mating parts, eliminate drilling a hole, protect bolts from shearing, and maintain joint integrity. Call 313-963-2680 for a...

Literature: hand tools.(Tools)
October 1, 2003... A comprehensive, 280-p, full-color catalog, #314, details a complete line of industrial-grade hand tools. The catalog provides a wealth of helpful information for safer, comfortable, and efficient maintenance work. An expanded line of...

Literature: Fastener info.(Tools)
October 1, 2003... Seventh edition of the Inch Fastener Standards reference book features technical information, including combination drive systems, plus updated guidelines on fastener design, selection, meterials, strength properties, test methods, quality...

News: voluntary recall.(Instruments & Controls)(Brief Article)
October 1, 2003... IDEAL Industries, Inc., Sycamore, IL, is conducting a voluntary recall of certain manufacturing lots of its voltage and voltage/continuity testers sold primarily in North America. The recalled units are tester models 61-065, 61-066, 61-067,...

News: DCS market growth.(Instruments & Controls)(distributed control systems market predicted to grow)(Brief Article)
October 1, 2003... An ARC Advisory Group study predicts the worldwide market for distributed control systems (DCSs) will grow from $9.1 billion in 2002 to more than $10.3 billion in 2007. However, ARC has scaled down its growth projections since its previous DCS...

Products: IR camera.(Instruments & Controls)
October 1, 2003... Model E4 lightweight and portable infrared (IR) inspection camera introduces a radiometric jpeg image format that allows image post processing on the camera or on a PC. It also provides three independent, movable-spot temperature cursors, and...

Products: silicone rubber heaters.(Instruments & Controls)
October 1, 2003... SRMU silicone rubber heating blankets are used for freeze protection, process temperature control, melting of solids, temperature heat-up, or maintenance. Heaters withstand chemicals, moisture, and abusive treatment, and feature rapid heat-up,...