Conveyor Protection

Incorporating a multi-pass, multi-directional, grease-filled labyrinth seal combined with multiple exterior shields, the patented Jeffrey Permaseal III protects the high-capacity, tapered roller bearings integral to the durability of high-performance idler rolls. The system is reportedly able to survive any combination of radial and thrust loads as well as virtually any environment of particulate or liquid contamination. The Jeffrey Permaseal III is presently available to both North American and South American markets. Goodman Conveyor, (+1) 864-338-7793
circle 180 on reader card

Robotic Palletizer

As North American “system integrator” for Fuji Ace Robotic Palletizers, the company uses Fuji core robot technology to complete the robot palletizer with a custom-designed pickup hand. Necessary controls and programming are then added to integrate the robot palletizer with the manufacturer's conveying system. The Fuji Ace Robot is able to handle single and multiple products, mixed loads, and complex stacking patterns including overlapping of bags. A single unit can automatically position a pallet, place a slip-sheet and stack product all from a single location. The space requirement has been greatly reduced when compared to conventional palletizing systems. In addition, company representatives note, the Fuji Ace Robot utilizes a linear track design that contributes to a 50% reduction in power consumption (and in some cases, up to 200% reduction), while achieving up to 1,600 cycles per hour (26 cycles per minute). Conveying Industries, Inc., (+1) 303-373-2035
circle 181 on reader card

Pneumatic Dosing System

The RotoFeed, incorporating a volumetric or gravimetric feeder, is a single-unit, continuous pneumatic conveying system that features minimal moving parts for low maintenance and accuracy of ±0.5% by weight over a wide conveying range. It can be used for conveying up to 1,650 ft., and its vessels and systems are adaptable for explosion containment to NFPA codes. A fast feed-rate change capability with 300 weighments per second ensures rapid response to process variations. Pressure fluctuations do not affect feed rates, and the system offers a high material-to-air ratio. Most powder and granular products, including toxic and difficult-to-convey materials, are moved directly into pressurized environments (to 300 psi) with feed rates to 100 tons per hour provided through small diameter pipes. The system handles a variety of products with total moisture content in excess of 10% and temperatures to 300∞F. The RotoFeed system also features smooth pulsation free-flow at all feed rates. Turndown capability of 10:1 is standard. A wide range of models is available, customized to suit various process needs including cement, metal and minerals. Clyde Materials Handling, (+1) 513-576-9200
circle 182 on reader card

Solids Level Sensor

The VibraRod sensor requires no calibration and provides solid state electronic circuitry for reliable point-level sensing in a wide variety of applications within the powder and bulk solids market. Product developers note that the single-probe vibrating rod design overcomes typical application difficulties associated with changes in material, electrical dielectric constant, temperature, or humidity. Using a single probe is said to eliminate potential problems such as material buildup and false signaling often encountered with dual-prong “tuning fork”-type probes. The VibraRod line is offered in standard-length (extending approximately 9 in. into a vessel), pipe-extension (to 118 in.), or cable-extension (to about 65 ft.) versions. All units can be provided with plastic or aluminum housing and are equipped with local indication using a bi-color LED and a traditional relay output. Monitor Technologies LLC, (+1) 800-601-5953
circle 183 on reader card

Audiosonic Acoustic Cleaner

Company introduces the PAS-60 as the most powerful audiosonic acoustic cleaner available. Offered in both straight and curved versions, the PAS-60 is constructed of 316 stainless steel. It is said to provide maximum cleaning power over a wide area without risk of causing vibration within any concrete or steel structure. Not only can the PAS-60 maximize its material debonding power at 60 Hz, but it also maintains this acoustic cleaning power over a range of higher key frequencies, thus preventing material buildup over the entire large silo, ESP, or power generation unit. Primasonics International Ltd., (+44) 1768-866648
circle 184 on reader card

Data Access Software

Cimplicity DataViews software allows remote and casual users to access critical data via a standard web browser, helping to drive productivity at a lower design cost, developers note. The new Thin Client technology permits graphical visualization and control of single- and multiple-machine production through a standard web browser over the Internet or Intranet. As it provides expanded access to critical data with standard browsers and networking — without additional software for new users — Cimplicity DataViews facilitates the creation of a dynamic, graphical software display for visualizing information used to control and monitor real-time processes. Users can develop their own Human Machine Interface (HMI) while maintaining the convenience and flexibility of their chosen programming languages and platforms. GE Fanuc Automation North America, (+1) 800-648-2001
circle 185 on reader card

X-Ray Diffraction

The Rigaku MiniFlex is a low-cost X-ray diffraction (XRD) tool suitable for cement applications, especially as it differentiates between the hydration states of gypsum, which is added to clinker as a setting agent to produce cement with specific strength and setting properties. XRD's ability to distinguish Anhydrite (CaSO₄), Hemihydrate (CaSo₄ • ½ H₂O) and Dihydrate (CaSo₄ • 1H₂O) allows precise control of these cement characteristics. Also, the ability to regulate formation of C₃S, C₂S, C₂A C₄AF and alkali sulfates by monitoring kiln inputs and outputs and adjusting kiln temperature according to chemical composition in real time makes XRD technology a valuable addition to XRF analysis of cement composition. The MiniFlex can be installed at almost any location. The accompanying software works in a Windows environment and can be operated on any compatible PC. The built-in goniometer is factory-aligned and requires no additional calibration. Developers add that start-up and operation of the instrument are simple; novices quickly become proficient. Rigaku, (+1) 281-363-1033
circle 186 on reader card

Bulk Material Valve

For silo and bin discharge, transporter fill, line isolating, and (with two valves and wye) diverting on the fly, the bulk material valve has no pockets where fines can accumulate and cause jamming. The rotating/shearing discs are self-lapping as they polish away scratches that may develop on wide sealing surfaces. A live-loaded stuffing box design enables Graphite-Kevlar stem packing to be replaced without removing the valve from the line. Additional features comprise: sizes 2 in. through 12 in., including 5 in.; vacuum to 100 psig; 550°F; ANSI flanged connections; cast iron, carbon steel construction; hardened alloy sealing components; pneumatic operator; and, optional solenoid and limit switches. Everlasting Valve Co., (+1) 908-769-0700
circle 187 on reader card

Particle measurement

The Zetasizer Nano series uses advanced technology for what the product developers contend is the easiest and most accurate measurement of particle size, zeta potential, and molecular weight of molecules and nano-sized particles. The series includes the Nano-ZS for measurement of all three parameters, the Nano-S for combined particle size and molecular weight, and the Nano-Z for applications requiring only zeta potential measurement. Cutting-edge instrumentation incorporates M3-PALS Phase Analysis Light Scattering combined with patented M3 technology for zeta potential measurement; noninvasive back scatter (NIBS) technology enabling particle size measurement (by the Zetasizer Nano-S and Nan0-ZS) in the range of 0.6 nm to 6 microns diameter, using as little as 12μmL of sample, at concentrations up to 20% w/v; and, the new MPT-2 autotitrator, which allows complete automation of the measurement of absolute molecular weight and titration of pH, conductivity or other additives as a function of particle size and zeta potential. Designed for ease of use, compact, fully automated units reportedly ensure optimum performance and excellent repeatability when handled according to standard operating procedures. Malvern Instruments, (+44) 1684-892456
circle 188 on reader card

Elevator Buckets

The high-strength, cast-steel alloy elevator buckets are promoted as an alternative to cast iron buckets used in severe-abrasion service conditions. When compared to elevator buckets of gray cast iron or nodular iron, the H39 cast alloy steel buckets demonstrate superior physical properties, which translate to a higher level of durability and longer service life. Resistance to wear due to abrasion and a slower wear rate are directly related to hardness. Higher strength resists tearing out of bolts and increases the integrity of bucket shape. Toughness increases the ability of the bucket to weather the impact of unexpected blows during service. In the end, cost savings will be realized with fewer replacements and less down time, the manufacturer affirms. Columbia Steel Casting Co., (+1) 800-547-9471
circle 189 on reader card

Railcar Connector

CycloLift is a new railcar connector designed to streamline unloading from hopper-bottom cars, reduce time and eliminate spillage associated with mating conventional railcar “boot lift” connectors with hopper gates, product developers report. Models also are available for hopper-bottom trucks. The device comes with steel adapter plates that move longitudinally to speed alignment of the boot seal with the hopper slide gate and reduce time-consuming railcar repositioning. Pneumatically actuated lifters replace conventional hydraulically activated mechanical linkages to elevate the boot and mate it firmly against the hopper slide gate. The lifters, located under the top plate carrying the resilient rubber gate seal, extend to create a tight boot-to-gate seal regardless of the tilt of the railcar or irregularities in the gate surface. To accommodate hoppers with varying clearance, the lifters have a long throw; the force exerted by the pneumatic lifters against the hopper gates is virtually independent of extension throughout the throw range. Cyclonaire Corp., (+1) 800-445-0730
circle 190 on reader card

Process Automation System

Matrix Total Control has been introduced as the next generation distributed process automation system for regulatory, sequential and batch control applications. Matrix simultaneously supports process and discrete automation strategies, making it suitable for process applications that also require some sequential logic in a process environment. Product developers note that Matrix is an open, easy-to-use process control engineering and management program that automatically configures control solutions ranging from straightforward, single loops to advanced control strategies. Its integrated project development environment coordinates all control project engineering for the design, implementation, documentation and maintenance of a process control system. The Matrix System consists of Process Engineering Tools, Control Platform with I/O, and Process Management Tools. Standard Automation & Control, (+1) 281-334-3293
circle 191 on reader card

Kiln, Cooler Monitor

The Spyrometer³ offers redesigned electronics housed in a modern enclosure to provide simultaneous video and temperature measurement input from two cameras into a single, integrated processor. Both kiln and cooler can be monitored — or two kilns, or two coolers. Given the importance of providing control room personnel with live, high-resolution video and on-screen temperature information, the Spyrometer³ — easily integrated into the plant control system — is said to optimize operations, improving production quality and output while reducing operating costs. Substantially reduced hardware, enhanced software features, and a simpler user interface reportedly offer greater reliability and system performance. Imaging and Sensing Technology, (+1) 425-881-0778
circle 192 on reader card

Roller Mill/Pulverizer Process Monitoring

The Raytrol-II control system is said to deliver economical process control, monitoring and data acquisition to optimize mill processes. The control system can be supplied with new pulverizing systems and is available to update or replace controls on existing roller mills and pulverizing systems as well. A multi-loop, stable controller, the Raytrol-II comes preprogrammed or can be customized to address specific applications. It offers graphical user interface and trending capabilities. Information generated by the control system is network accessible. Program modifications and upgrades can be provided off-line and downloaded to the controller with minimal disruption of normal mill operations. In addition to universal inputs and Microsoft Windows-based, human-machine interface (HMI), system features include five analog inputs, four analog outputs, and three PID control loops. Alstom Power, (+1) 630-971-2500
circle 193 on reader card

Non-Contact Infrared Thermometer

Dickson's D169 features data logging and 16-point coaxial laser sighting. The thermometer is Fahrenheit/Celsius switchable, has adjustable emissivity, and a digital display featuring a bar graph of the last ten temperature points. The D 169 detects amounts of radiant energy and instantaneously displays the corresponding temperature on a LCD display, the company said. Dickson Company, (+1) 800-323-2448
Circle 194 on Reader Service Card