Schneider Electric has published a new document - 'How to use BS EN 60204-1: 2006 Safety of Machinery' - which provides an easy to understand guide to this important safety standard and recommends which products customers need to implement to achieve compliance. The 52-page document is free to download from the Schneider Electric website. BS EN 60204-1, the harmonised standard which aids conformity with the relevant requirements of the Machinery Directive, is complex, extensive and has been comprehensively revised since it was first published.

All of this can prove daunting, especially for new users.

Because of this, Schneider Electric commissioned Brian James Clark OBE, a Fellow of the Institute of Electrical Engineers who has been at the forefront of machinery safety standards for many years, to write a simple and easy to use guide.

With this free guide, Schneider Electric customers can now more readily understand and apply the BS EN 60204-1 standard.

Since 1986, BS EN 60204-1 has been revised and re-published as a British Standard four times.

'How to use BS EN 60204-1: 2006 Safety of Machinery' is an invaluable aid to using the standard, and it includes advice on even the most recent additions, such as normative Annex A - 'Protection against indirect contact in TN-systems'.

Machinery safety has always been an important issue, but over the past decade the standards for safety have become more stringent globally.

Brian Clark believes that 'How to use BS EN 60204-1: 2005 Safety of Machinery will provide machine designers, control system designers and safety professionals with a clear explanation of the Standard's requirements and thereby simplify adherence to it.

The ABB Robotics 'Productivity Days' put manufacturers on the right track! ABB, the global power and automation technology group, will host 'Productivity Days' on 4/5 October 2006, at the ABB Robotics Centre, Milton Keynes. 'Take a day-off - and improve your productivity' is very much the emphasis of the two days. Underlining this is the fact that many manufacturing and production managers believe, quite erroneously, that they are just too busy to take time out to investigate simple and relatively inexpensive productivity enhancements, which could significantly improve their productivity and overall equipment effectiveness.

The ABB message is simple - take the day off and visit the ABB Robotics Centre at Milton Keynes, your time will be well rewarded! On hand will be the ABB UK Robotics team offering in-depth, one-to-one advice on all aspects of robot operation and training, plus a diverse range of product demonstrations, as well as exhibits and technical briefings geared to improving productivity in all industry sectors.

Heading up the product demonstrations is the MiniFlex system, a powerful and virtually unique robotic parts feeder based around an advanced vision system, and the ABB compact six-axis robot, the IRB 140.

The system is marketed in the UK and demonstrated at Milton Keynes by the ABB channel partner, RNA Automation of Castle Bromwich.

Demonstrations of the ABB 'Service Technologies' range will also take place, including ABB 'SmartSpares', ABB 'AnyWhere' and ABB 'WebWare'.

'SmartSpares' is a simple and effective way to manage and track the usage of critical automation spares, to ensure that parts are easily accessible when they are needed most - during a breakdown.

ABB 'Anywhere' is a robot remote fault diagnosis and service tool designed to remotely connect the manufacturer's robot production cell with the local ABB Customer Support Desk - thereby streamlining the way that robot problems are diagnosed and solved.

'WebWare' is a software product that helps customers keep track of their production resources by gathering data from ABB controllers, PLCs, and other plant floor devices - thus safeguarding and optimising robot investments.

Interactive one-to-one demonstrations of RobotStudio, the ABB offline programming software, will be carried out throughout each of the days.

By programming robots offline using this inexpensive software, 'virtual' trials and development can take place in parallel to system build or modification, so that production can start or resume earlier and thus reduce product time to market.

Innovative welding processes will also be featured including Cold Metal Transfer and Friction Stir.

Formal training of personnel is a legal requirement under Health and Safety legislation, and, irrespective of the legalities, properly trained personnel are a prudent investment because they are more efficient, more productive and safer in their work.

Dedicated training staff will be attending the Productivity Days to discuss with customers their requirements and explain the courses on offer at the ABB 'state-of the-art' robot training centre.

'Hands-on' sessions are also available.

All those with an interest in improving manufacturing efficiency through robotics, or improving the efficiency of existing robot manufacturing cells, are cordially invited to attend the ABB Robotics' 'Productivity Days'.

Elfab has made the benefits of their industry-leading, ATEX-approved burst detection system available to all Arma-Gard graphite bursting disc customers. The new Slimline Arma-Gard features thinner face-to-face dimensions than the standard version, enabling the Elfab non-invasive and reusable Flo-Tel detector to now be fitted as standard. The Arma-Gard Slimline steel-armoured ring serves the dual purpose of protecting the graphite disc while allowing for the degree of clamping force necessary for correct sealing.

The new bursting disc is immune to the damage suffered by conventional graphite discs, which is caused by poor storage, handling or installation.

Due to its unique design, Arma-Gard eliminates the possibility of side wall bursts and is not torque-sensitive.

The new slimline design retains all the benefits of original Arma-Gard, but now allows all customers the option of the unique Elfab integral detection system, Flo-Tel, previously only available with a thicker face-to-face specification.

The holderless, multi-flange design will allow for improved lead times while simultaneously giving customers the opportunity to reduce their stock holdings.

With high levels of corrosion resistance and low-pressure capability, Arma-Gard offers an excellent solution for the chemical and pharmaceutical industries.

Within industrial automation there is a distinct trend towards companies purchasing complete systems rather than purchasing components assembled in-house and one factor contributing to the acceleration of this trend has been cut backs in engineering over recent years. This has had a direct impact on the direct drives market. In fact, in a recent IMS Research study investigating the worldwide direct drives market, it was noted that the global market for linear motor (LM) systems, which was forecast to be US$354.1 million in 2005, was almost double that of the LM components market.

Growth rates also indicated that there will be a continued shift to pre-assembled systems with linear motor systems growing at a CAGR of 11.0% compared with 8.5% for linear motor components.

However, these results also presented a stark contrast between the different regions.

The most notable disparity is between EMEA and Asia Pacific regions, the largest two markets for linear motors.

Whilst EMEA is the dominant region for LM components, with $104.3 million in revenues and accounting for half of all global sales, the EMEA makes up less than a fifth of the total systems market.

The largest region by far for this market was Asia Pacific, with sales of $192.8 million in 2005.

Systems were also forecast to experience the highest growth in this region.

One answer to the differences in market structures can be found in the prevalent industry sectors within each region.

The EMEA is the largest market for machine tools, whilst the flat panel display and semiconductor machinery markets dominate the linear motor market in the Asia Pacific.

These industries differ tremendously in regard to their preferred architecture for linear motors.

In the machine tool sector, for example, engineers prefer to develop their own systems, and therefore purchase components.

The benefit to customers purchasing the components rather than pre-assembled systems is cheaper prices as well as flexibility in designing the products into their machines.

However, the flip side to this is seen within markets such as flat panel display or semiconductor machinery where the linear motion component is only an ancillary product.

In these applications customers typically prefer pre-assembled systems rather than assigning expensive in-house engineering in assembly of sub-systems for a machine.

Pneumatically operated linear slides from Bosch Rexroth are simplifying the design and construction of a new pressure testing machine produced by hydraulic testing expert, Curtis Assemble and Test. Developed specifically to meet the needs of a major automotive manufacturer, the new machine performs high-pressure leakage testing on components which are used in fuel injectors. Central to the functioning of the machine is a transport mechanism which places the components, four at a time, in the test jig and subsequently removes them when the test is complete.

This mechanism requires 150mm of motion on the X-axis, and 100mm on the Z-axis.

The Y-axis is fixed.

While this requirement is relatively straightforward, the pneumatic products, which Curtis Assemble and Test had used in earlier designs, required the manufacture of cumbersome customised adaptor plates to connect the X- and Z-axis slides.

In contrast, the Bosch Rexroth products bolt directly together, without the need for adaptors, brackets or other coupling components.

'As soon as we saw the Bosch Rexroth products, we realised that they would save us time and money', said Steve Cook, Design and Development Manager at Curtis Assemble and Test: 'And, although it was then at the prototype stage, we were also impressed by the Bosch Rexroth software which makes product selection and ordering particularly fast and easy.

Eliminating the adaptor plates may not sound like a huge benefit,' continued Steve Cook, 'but designing the plates needed for each job takes up engineering time, and then, of course, they have to be fabricated.

It's far easier to do what we do now - simply order standard components and bolt them together'.

The products selected by Curtis Assemble and Test for this application were an MSC miniature slide for the X-axis and one of the recently introduced GSU piston-rod free linear slides for the Z-axis.

The MSC slide combines stable guiding with high drive forces, while the rodless design of the GSU slide makes it particularly compact and convenient to use.

Both of these products are included in the Bosch Rexroth Easy-2-Combine modular automation system which has been specifically developed to allow convenient direct coupling of the components used in handling systems.

The system is now complemented by the final version of the Easy-2-Combine configuration and design software which was used in the Curtis Assemble and Test project, and which can be accessed free-of-charge on the Bosch Rexroth website.

'Not only do these components cut engineering and assembly time,' said Steve Cook, 'they have also allowed us to achieve a more compact overall design, and to produce a machine with a much more attractive appearance.

In addition, they were very easy to use.

We know from past experience that the Bosch Rexroth team is always ready to provide technical advice and support but, in this case, we had no need at all to call on their services'.

As a result of its experiences with the fuel injector component pressure test rig, Curtis Assemble and Test is now adopting Bosch Rexroth Easy-2-Combine products for the majority of its new designs.

'They're not just easy to combine, they're also very easy to use and very convenient,' said Steve Cook: 'In short, they're an ideal match for our requirements.

The THK KR15 actuator provides an outstanding level of accuracy and excellent rigidity, comprising of a miniature linear motion guide and ballscrew in a complete, compact unit. Featuring a stainless-steel outer rail, inner block, ballscrew and balls, with ultra-low-dust AFF grease when specified, the KR15 is ideal for use in clean environments such as semiconductor manufacturing, electronic components manufacturing and medical applications. The one-piece design of the KR15, with guide rail on both sides of the inner block and a ballscrew extending through the centre of the inner block, forms a highly rigid and precise, ultra-compact unit with a cross section just 15mm high and 30mm wide.

The design which comprises two load-bearing ball tracks arranged on each side, constituting a two-point circular arc contact, also allows it to bear equal loads in all four directions so there are no restrictions concerning the mounting position of the actuator.

Furthermore as the four raceways that carry the load are formed in THK's proven arc groove the guideway shows high rigidity and fluctuations in frictional resistance due to load variations are minimised; providing superb feeding accuracy.

Unlike conventional guides, the rigidity of the KR actuators is enhanced through the U-shaped outer rail which houses the LM Guide inner block.

The shape of the rail not only reduces its overall weight, but minimises any bending of the beam during operation, allowing the actuator to be used in suspended 'simply supported' formation as well as conventional mounting.

The accuracy and small envelope of each actuator is enhanced as the ball screw runs longitudinally through the centre of the guides, which minimises the effect of pitching and yawing while optimising overall size.

Online concentration measurement of even the smallest volumes of a few milliliters is now a matter of course. Anton Paar has launched the new L-Dens 313 density transmitter, an attractively priced instrument for continuously measuring the density and concentration of liquids, whether at large production plants or on a small scale. The L-Dens 313 density transmitter automatically calculates the temperature-compensated density, degBrix, degPlato, % alcohol, API gravity or other customer-specific values as required.

The measuring results are displayed directly on the instrument and can also be transferred for data processing via standard interfaces.

All wetted parts are made of stainless steel.

L-Dens 313 is ideal for the continuous monitoring of the density or concentration of liquids when an accuracy of 1x10-3 g/cm3 is required for the density results.

The compact density transmitter is a powerful and flexible measuring instrument which can be integrated quickly and easily into measuring systems and plants.

Priced from under GBP1900 the instrument is so practical, user-friendly and affordable that process monitoring can now become standard for everyone.

Malvern Instruments has extended the rheology resources available on the company website with the addition of a new FAQ section designed to help both new and existing customers optimise their use of capillary rheometers. Questions covering basic and advanced features as well as applications of capillary rheometry are answered clearly and concisely. The FAQ section includes details of the way a capillary rheometer works, the types of sample that can be analysed and how to configure a system for optimum performance.

Issues connected with the measurement of different parameters and the practical applications of measured data are also addressed.

Capillary rheometers are highly valuable for simulating high shear rate conditions.

Conventionally they are associated with polymer processing applications but are used increasingly in the paints and inks, food, ceramics and personal care sectors.

Malvern supplies both floor-standing and bench top systems, meeting all user requirements from research applications to more routine testing.

Thermo Electron Corporation, the world leader in analytical instrumentation, introduces the latest product innovation for laboratory GC/MS - the DSQ II. Based on the proven reliability and performance platform of the Thermo DSQ and PolarisQ GC/MS systems, the DSQ II incorporates the new DynaMax XR ion detection system and the DuraBrite ion source. The DynaMax XR detection system allows for linear quantitation across six orders of magnitude and higher, increasing the effective analysis range of the instrument while decreasing sample preparation requirements.

The DuraBrite ion source features enhanced source designs to increase robustness with heavy matrix samples.

An optional new closed electron ionisation (CEI) ion volume further enhances performance with environmental samples.

Using a curved pre-filter and the DuraBrite source, the DSQ II significantly reduces neutral noise, providing enhanced sensitivity, even at low femtogram levels.

This innovative instrument offers increased sensitivity, extended linear range, and advanced fast scanning for lower levels of detection.

With continued product enhancements in ion source and detector technologies, the new DSQ II is ideal for routine GC/MS analysis across a wide range of applications including environmental, food safety, forensic chemistry and toxicology.

Three pump configurations provide expanded capabilities and flexibility for a variety of applications: a 70 L/sec turbomolecular pump for electron ionisation/mass spectrometry applications, a 250 L/sec turbomolecular pump for the addition of chemical ionisation or solids probes, and a 200/200 split flow pump for ultimate performance with differential pumping.

Upgrades to vacuum interlock, chemical ionisation, solids probes and pulsed positive ion/negative ion chemical ionisation (PPINICI) are also available.

The DSQ II has the industry's fastest scanning capability by a single quadrupole system with scan speeds greater than 11,000 amu/sec.

The DSQ II comes standard with advanced mixed scan mode capabilities for sequential selected ion monitoring (SIM) and full scan analysis.

This feature offers the enhanced sensitivity of SIM with the added confidence of full-scan fingerprints.

Powerful Xcalibur software provides complete control of the GC/MS system, while application-specific software such as EnviroLab Forms 2.0, ToxLab Forms 2.0, and ToxLab 2.0 provide processing, data control and work flow functions for today's busy laboratories.

Isothermal Technology (Isotech) has introduced a new type of precision thermometer, which it claims will set new world standards for accuracy and stability. Designed for a wide range of highly accurate industrial and scientific calibration applications, the instrument uses a completely new measurement technique to achieve accuracies better than 0.4 parts per million (ppm) - equivalent to 0.0004C - when used with a standard platinum resistance thermometer (SPRT). Designed and manufactured in Britain, MicroK is believed to be the only instrument of its type in the world which will work to this precision with all three commonly used sensors, platinum resistance thermometers (PRTs), thermocouples and thermistors.

In terms of long term stability, MicroK achieves literally zero drift for resistance ratio measurements and an annual drift of only 3 ppm for voltage measurements.

While utilising sophisticated software and specially developed circuitry, the MicroK is easy to use and has a comprehensive range of built-in features.

It utilises a 6.4-inch VGA colour touch screen as the main user interface, providing a number of graphically presented user options and controls.

The underlying operating system is Microsoft Windows CE, facilitating direct reading of temperature for all sensor types, data logging, export of data into Microsoft Excel applications and graphing facilities.

Measurement 'Best Practice' guidelines recommend the use of two separate reference thermometers when carrying out temperature calibrations.

For that reason the designers of the MicroK have incorporated three channels, enabling users to achieve best practice without having to invest in additional multiplexers.

The instrument also includes 'keep-warm' current sources to maintain the power in a PRT when it is not being measured.

This feature effectively eliminates uncertainty resulting from power coefficients.

A key to achieving such high accuracies and stability is the use of a specially designed analogue to digital converter (ADC) within the instrument measurement circuits.

In conjunction with a digital signal processor (DSP), this uses a unique adaptation of existing advanced sigma-delta ADC techniques to achieve linearity better than 0.4 ppm.

A further major benefit of this ADC technique is its low noise performance, and the designers claim that electronic noise is reduced by a factor of 32 over conventional sigma-delta ADC circuits.

A further break with convention is that the instrument uses no mechanical switches, relays or potentiometers whatsoever (other than the main power on/off switch), relying on solid state switching to route voltage and current signals internally.

Comparative instruments in this class have used high quality mechanical relays for this purpose, a technique which inherently introduces inaccuracies arising from thermal EMFs, and degrades reliability.

By using the latest semiconductor technology, performance has been enhanced, component counts have been reduced and reliability considerably improved.

The MicroK range consists of two instruments, offering a choice of measurement accuracy: The MicroK 400 is accurate to 0.4 ppm over the whole temperature range of SPRTs with R0 greater than 2.5ohms, equivalent to 0.1 milliKelvins (0.0001K) at 0 degrees C.

With thermocouple sensors the voltage uncertainty is 0.25microVolts, equivalent to 0.01degrees C for Gold-Platinum thermocouples.

The MicroK 800 is accurate to 0.8 ppm over the whole temperature range of SPRTs with R0 greater than 2.5ohms, equivalent to 0.2 milliKelvins (0.0002K) at 0deg C.

With thermocouple sensors the voltage uncertainty is the same as the MicroK 400 model.

According to Isotech, the two instruments in the MicroK range offer performance characteristics and features which are simply not available elsewhere.

Comparable instruments available internationally do not achieve the same accuracy or stability (zero drift characteristics with SPRT measurements are not obtainable in any other instrument), do not support the same variety of sensors, and offer considerably less operational features.

As a result, the 'Cost of Ownership', a key feature of growing international importance, has been considerably reduced.

Leading level control specialists Hycontrol have developed an integrated silo protection system designed to prevent the problems caused by the overfilling or over-pressurisation of bulk storage silos. The SiloSafe concept provides a comprehensive system where the operational integrity of the primary sensing elements can be fully checked at ground level prior to each filling. Each year millions of tonnes of powdered and granular materials as diverse as cement, animal feed, silicates, fertiliser, fly ash and flour, are routinely off-loaded from tankers into storage silos across the UK.

Normally the loads are discharged by fluidising the materials with compressed air and blowing them into the silo.

For commercial reasons, vehicle operators want to discharge their loads as quickly as possible using the maximum pneumatic conveying pressure, a situation which can bring conditions within the silos close to critical levels.

Protection systems designed to prevent the overfilling of silos have been used for some years and now new recommendations have been introduced to meet the growing number of safety and environmental related regulations.

However despite this, incidents, in some cases life threatening, still occur during the filling process.

Silo protection system implementation is designed to address two main unrelated issues focused on the safety of site personnel and environmental problems associated with the emissions of particulate material to the atmosphere.

There is currently no single set of guidelines stipulating exactly how such systems should operate across all industries.

The British Cement Association, in conjunction with Defra and the HSE, have drawn up one of the most comprehensive set of guidelines, but even these leave some aspects open to interpretation.

However all current guidelines make it clear that silos filled via pneumatic conveying should be fitted with automatic protection systems to prevent over-filling or over-pressurisation.

Such systems should have three independent sensing elements, namely a pressure relief valve, pressure sensor and high level alarm.

Effective and safe filling relies on the controlled release of air through the air filter, ensuring a steady pressure is maintained inside the silo.

Problems typically arise through air filters becoming blocked or from excess discharge pressures generated by the tanker filling system.

Most storage silos are not designed as pressure vessels and even an overpressure of 1 psi may be sufficient to cause serious damage.

Theoretically any excess pressure should be detected by the pressure sensor allowing the filling to be halted.

If all else fails the pressure relief valve should act as the final backstop, allowing rapid silo venting.

A prime example of the dangers involved if things go wrong is demonstrated by the following example.

Due to a misunderstanding between a cement tanker driver and a plant operator, cement was discharged into a silo that had been filled the previous day.

On that occasion the high level alarm on the silo had been activated at the end of the fill and had been muted.

Under normal circumstances, the alarm would have reset once the cement level dropped.

However because the cement still covered the probe this had not happened.

During the delivery, a loud explosion occurred and the whole filter unit was ejected from the silo roof onto the ground.

Fortunately no-one was injured.

The subsequent investigation showed that the air filter was not operating correctly allowing cement powder to leak out and build up in and around the pressure relief valve.

This had hardened causing the valve to seize up.

In this case no pressure detector was fitted and the other three lines of defence failed through poor maintenance and poor operating procedures.

Had an adequate pre check system been in place the problems would have been highlighted immediately.

But how can operators be sure their systems will work when necessary.

The latest guidelines stipulate that the system's critical sensors must be regularly checked to ensure they are in good working order.

However as Hycontrol Sales and Marketing Director Nigel Allen explains: 'Under ideal working conditions, the three fold safety regime should be more than adequate to prevent problems, but the only way to ensure equipment is fully operational is to carry out physical checks just prior to each filling.

Carrying out adequate checks on a regular basis can be difficult, particularly if the main protection components are not part of an integrated system.

In practice, especially in busy working environments, the checking procedure may not be carried out.

Historically checks have had to rely on visual inspections placing the onus on the operator to make informed decisions on the condition of vital components.

New restrictions on working at height now prevent operatives routinely climbing to the top of silos to carry out inspections'.

The Hycontrol SiloSafe solution provides an easy to use, fool proof and fail-safe system, which mandates the automatic testing of the key components directly from the integrated control panel at ground level.

The panel also incorporates twin multi-segment bar graphs for continuous level and pressure monitoring as well as digital displays for both.

When the delivery driver reports on site he is issued with a dedicated panel key for the particular silo to be filled.

Having activated the panel with the key, the driver must then press the Sensor Test button and release it.

At this stage the discharge butterfly valve is locked.

Each of the primary sensing elements is collectively tested by this single button press and any malfunction will be immediately highlighted.

Should any faults be detected, the valve will remain locked and not allow filling to take place until the problems have been remedied.

If the sensors pass the test, the white 'ready to fill' lamp is illuminated indicating that the discharge valve has opened and delivery can proceed.

The pressure sensor module is the first line of defence, measuring the pressure in the silo as the filling takes place.

If this exceeds a preset value it first provides an audible alarm, followed by a flashing red beacon and then an output signal which immediately closes the discharge valve in the fill pipe.

Hycontrol have developed an innovative method for checking the integrity of the sensor and cleaning it at the same time.

During the ground level test (GLT) a small air supply connected to the sensor applies a fixed pressure of approximately 90% of full range output directly to the sensor face.

This change in pressure is measured by the system and verifies correct operation.

As the air escapes through the porous membrane at the end of the sensor tube it removes any build up of material.

If the membrane is blocked the system alerts the operator and does not allow filling to take place until the situation is remedied.

Current requirements call for a high level probe to be fitted to silos to prevent overfilling.

As part of the SiloSafe system, Hycontrol recommend the use of their wave-guided radar system to provide continuous level monitoring even during dusty filling conditions.

This will give a clear indication of level in the silo prior to filling, ensuring the load to be discharged will fit in the silo.

Where only a high level probe is fitted, the SiloSafe GLT will automatically check its operational integrity.

If a high level condition is reached during filling, warning is given via the siren and flashing red beacon.

A countdown timer now closes the discharge valve after 30 seconds, giving the driver time to cease filling and clear down his line.

The PRV is the last line of defence and should never have to be used.

The Hycontrol system allows for optional full testing of this vital component.

Using small air cylinders, the system can lift the valve to check operation, with proximity switches detecting correct lifting and closing.

As Nigel Allen concludes: 'We are confident that our system is the most comprehensive available today and more than meets the current requirements for safe silo filling.

By offering an integrated solution with the ability to carry out tests on all the key elements in one action at ground level just prior to filling ensures the system will work in earnest if required.

During filling, operators and drivers can clearly follow the conditions inside the silo via the bar graphs and displays, giving them ample time to react to any adverse trends.

If any preset level or pressure limits are reached, the system will automatically close the inlet valve to the silo'.

Level detection using the vibronics principle is a widely used and cost-effective solution for overspill protection, high/low level alarms and pump protection in a wide range of process applications

Level limit detection using the vibronics principle is a widely used and cost-effective solution for overspill protection, high/low level alarms and pump protection in a wide range of applications across the process industries. The Endress+Hauser Liquiphant liquid level switch offers accurate and reliable measurement from hygienic applications in the food and pharmaceutical industries to high temperature (up to 280C) level applications experienced in the chemical industry. Liquiphant is maintenance-free and operation is unaffected by flow, turbulence, air bubbles or build-up, making it the perfect choice for a wide range of applications.

Liquiphant M offers a variety of wetted parts, including five different coatings, meaning that it retains measurement integrity even under aggressive conditions.

What's more with its low power consumption and compliance to NAMUR, the ATEX certified (Exia, Exd and Exde) Liquiphant is suitable for use in hazardous areas.

However, it is just as at home in the food and pharmaceutical industries.

Capable of meeting all legislative requirements including 3A, EHEDG, FDA and ASME BPE, Liquiphant M will fit seamlessly into your processes.

With a polished fork and easy-to-clean hygienic process connections, it provides high or low level alarms in processes from whisky distilling to sauce production.

It offers a wide range of process connections including DIN 11851 and uses FDA-listed stainless steel wetted parts.

In addition, the compact Liquiphant M version, with its sleek and slimline body, is ideal for installation in applications where space is at a premium.

Liquiphant S is designed with durability in mind.

Its duplex steel construction means it has a low thermal expansion rate and high yield strength so is ideal for high temperature applications.

It maintains reliable measurement up to 280C and 64 bar and unlike gap switches is insensitive to build-up and gas bubbles, allowing installation in troublesome emulsion-type applications.

More than just level switches, both Liquiphant M and S comply with the requirements of IEC61508, returning figures that typically fall within the SIL2/3 rating.

What's more, with the Liquiphant unique fork corrosion monitoring system, you can be certain that if there's a problem, it will raise the alarm to ensure consistent measurement integrity and product quality.

Pulsar launches an intrinsically safe version of the popular IMP non-contact ultrasonic level measurement device, a compact, self-contained, two-wire unit with versions offering 3m, 6m and 10m range

Pulsar Process Measurement has launched an intrinsically safe version of the popular IMP non-contact ultrasonic level measurement device. Like the rest of the IMP range, the IS IMP is a compact, self-contained, two-wire unit with versions offering 3m, 6m and 10m maximum measurement range for solids or liquids. The minimum range (deadband) of the 3m IMP is a mere 150mm, and, like the rest of the range, the IS IMP benefits from the Pulsar well-proven digital echo processing to make sure that it performs even in difficult applications, for example dusty or turbulent environments or where there are intrusions into the path of the ultrasonic pulse.

The IS IMP is ideal for process measurement applications or for monitoring storage tanks.

Various tank shapes are pre-programmed into IMP to make it easy to monitor materials and a remote display can be driven from the 4-20mA output.

The IS version of the IMP sports a black cap to the housing to differentiate it from the green of the non-IS range.

The ATEX Specification is EEx ia IIC T4 and also meets IECEx.

All IMP units have IP67 ingress protection and are simply programmed via a 4-button interface or from a PC.

Optional IMP PC software allows a user to 'clone' any number of IMP units, upload and download programming parameters, view and store echo profiles.

European Gate Valves have completed a number of contracts for the supply of their double flap gate valves for use on roadstone coating plants. These valves have successfully overcome premature wear and performance problems which beset the rotary valves previously fitted, and have extended valve MTBF operating life on asphalt plants from an average of only two months to in excess of two years. The valves are installed on pneumatic conveying systems carrying filler fines from a bag filter to storage silo.

Despite rotary valves being specified as abrasion resistant, they still lost performance within a few weeks.

This included accelerated wear leading to leaks and lower throughput, necessitating costly overhaul and repair with eventual complete valve replacement required.

The abrasive action of the conveyed material on the casing, combined with the wiping action of rotary valves, increases clearance between the rotor and casing.

This enlarges leak paths available to the conveying air, bypassing the rotor and compromising performance, with a growing reduction in the volume of material being transported.

Plant throughput diminishes with corresponding increasing levels of maintenance and costs.

Downtime for valve replacement also affects output production.

The EGV double flap valves successfully eliminate this continuous expensive process of maintenance/replacement/repair because sealing is achieved through the mating of two flat ground surfaces.

No rubbing or wiping action is involved, which minimises the potential for moving parts wear.

Due to the design, double flap gate valves also offer further savings.

Replacement of any wear parts can be easily carried out through access covers, without the valve being disconnected or removed from the process line.

EGV can supply products tailored to suit the particular thermal, abrasion and pressure requirements of specialised applications, including the requirements of gasification, pyrolysis, energy recovery from waste incineration and mineral processing etc.

The 470 series control valve, from ARI-Armaturen, is a high performance valve with flexibility and reliability. Suitable for industrial installations, processing technology and plant manufacturing, it further extends their range of specialist control valves, and underpins the company's philosophy of being a one-stop-shop for controls and pipeline equipment. The body of the 470, available in SG iron or cast steel, has been specially designed for optimum flow conditions and to minimise noise.

It can be fitted with the comprehensive range of electric and pneumatic actuators and accessories available from ARI, and being quickly interchangeable enables OEMs to benefit from reduced stockholding.

Available in sizes DN15 to DN150 and with its pure graphite packing, the ARI 470 control valve can withstand temperatures from -60C up to 450C.

Its internal parts, the stem, plug and seat can be replaced independently or in situ.

Total flexibility means that the 470 series control valves can be used across a wide range of applications, including processes using hot water, steam, and heat transfer oils where the option of a bellow sealed gland ensures reliable sealing.

It is also suitable for processes with high flow, where a high-pressure drop is needed and where greatly varying load and high turndown is required.

The 470 series valves offer significant control advantages including.

* The seat and plug can be changed to suit specific plant requirements; this is particularly useful when processes are under development, or loads vary significantly at different times of the year.

* Self-centering design which simplifies on-site changes.

* May be soft seated (PTFE) for improved sealing on gases and low temperature fluids (leakage class VI according to IEC 60534-4).

* May be 'V' port and post-guided for high pressure drop applications.

* May be perforated and post-guided where noise or cavitation is an issue.

* May be balanced for very high differential pressures.

The spindle is extremely sturdy, which means that deflection is minimised, even with high flowrates and differential pressures; this means that control is accurate and repeatable with minimum hysterisis.

The main function of a control valve is to control flow, however, this conflicts with shut-off tightness, and a compromise between maintaining an accurate valve characteristic at low flow, and shut-off tightness has to be reached.

At high differential pressures even a small leakage rate will result in a substantial amount of fluid passing the valve, resulting in spoilt product and process difficulties.

Recent developments in design and manufacturing techniques has meant that the shut-off tightness of ARI-Armaturen control valves has improved from Class IV to Class IV-S1 (according to IEC 60534-4), significantly reducing the leakage rate and associated problems.

For more that 50 years ARI-Armaturen has been designing and manufacturing specialist valves used for isolating, securing, controlling and steam trapping across a wide range of industrial processes, from process engineering, chemicals, shipbuilding to building automation.

Offering a one-stop solution for all valve requirements, customers can profit from the complete ARI range of butterfly valves, globe valves, control valves, safety valves, strainers/check valves, or steam traps.

All designs undergo stringent in-house testing and the valves are renowned for their high operational safety and reliability based on leading-edge manufacturing technology.

ARI-Armaturen offers speed, expertise and superior performance, based on the highest quality standards.

FCX Performance announced today that it has been appointed the authorised representative for Metso Automation (Jamesbury and Neles Automation) in the North and South Carolina markets. Commenting on the news, Charlie Simon, FCX Performance President and CEO said 'We are very excited by this opportunity to represent a market-leading partner in a dynamic market'. FCX and Metso have had over a 30 year partnership and are both excited about the growth opportunities that are available in the Carolinas.

Concurrent with the move, Simon noted that 'The FCX Charlotte branch will be moving to larger facilities with full inventory and valve assembly capabilities'.

Based in Columbus in Ohio, FCX is one of the largest specialty flow control distributors in the US market with over US$120 million in annual sales, 21 offices covering 17 states and over 230 employees.

Badger Meter control valves, available in the UK through Pump Engineering, are making an important contribution to oil extraction in ultra deep oil wells where the ability to overcome the difficult challenges associated with these applications, such as extreme pressures, wide flow ranges and very low temperatures, is extremely important. As a consequence of increasing global demand and escalating fuel prices, particularly since the mid 1990s, oil and gas production has increased significantly at much greater depths. While market forces have driven the need for production companies to 'push back the boundaries' and extract oil and gas from greater depths, technological advances have been required to overcome the challenges to enable safe and efficient deep sea oil extraction.

For example, as oil and gas production moves to deeper waters, flowline pressures rise and seawater temperatures fall: this can result in the formation of hydrates.

If these ice-like hydrates are left unchecked they can deposit on the inner wall of flowlines and agglomerate, until they completely block the flow line.

To eliminate the potential problem of hydrates forming in flowlines at these depths and pressures, chemical additives, such as methanol or mono ethylene glycol, are injected into the wellstream.

These additives act as anti-freeze and are effective in preventing hydrates from forming and therefore play a key role in helping to keep flowlines open.

For example, the Badger Valve Company, represented in the UK by Pump Engineering, was challenged to manufacture one inch valves which could handle ethylene glycol at flows up to 220 lit/min at 700 bar.

These valves were successfully deployed in deep water oilfields in the Eastern Gulf of Mexico where pressures are relatively high and the temperatures relatively low: so therefore the risk of hydrates forming is high.

Additive and injection applications are ideal for these valves as they are suited to both low pressure and high pressure duties.

The Badger range includes models ranging in size from 0.25'' up to 2'', capable of operating in temperatures from -270 up to +800C, with CVs from 0.000018 to 2.5 and rangeability from 50:1 to 15:1.

They can be supplied as standard in 316 stainless steel with stainless steel or Stellite trims, although alternative materials such as Monel, Hastelloy B and C, titanium and zirconium can also be specified.