Friday 30 September 2016

PLCopen Coding Guidelines.

The independent association PLCopen has recently released a set of coding guidelines for Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs). This is the first time a standard for PLCs has officially been published in the automation industry and it will allow managers to test any and all PLC programs for quality and consistency reasons.

Industrial automation has changed drastically over the past century. From the Charlie Chaplin style factories, where companies were reliant on people to manage the factory floor, to today, where factories are highly automated with only a few people present on the production lines. As a result of this ever greater reliance on machines, software is becoming increasingly responsible, complex, and demanding. This does not come without its challenges. Due to the greater complexity, programs are more difficult to maintain, more time consuming, and potentially therefore more expensive. This is why quality is taking such an important role these days.

Unlike in other industries, such as that of embedded software and computer science, there has not previously been a dedicated standard for Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) programs. This has meant that programs were not measured against anything and were often of a poor quality. But that’s where the independent association PLCopen has come in and set the standard with the release of their coding guidelines. These guidelines are a set of good practice programming rules for PLCs, which will help to control and enhance programming methods within industrial automation.

PLCopen, whose mission is to provide industrial control programming solutions, collaborated with members from a number of companies in different industries to create these coding guidelines. These companies include PLC vendors such as Phoenix Systems, Siemens, and Omron, to software vendors such as Itris Automation and CoDeSys, and educational institutions such as RWTH Aachen. These guidelines were inspired by some pre-existing standards from other domains such as IEC 61131-3, JSF++ coding standard and MISRA-C, and they are the product of three years of work by the working group. PLCopen’s reference standard can be used for testing the quality of all PLC codes, independent of brand and industry.

PLCopen’s coding guidelines are made up of 64 rules, which cover the naming, comments and structure of the code. By following these guidelines, the quality of the code will be improved and there will be greater consistency amongst developers. This will result in greater efficiency, as better readability means a faster debug time, and a program that is easier to maintain. This then results in lower costs as less time is required in order to maintain the program, and the maintenance should be easy enough for both an internal or external programmer as the code will be more straightforward. If the original developer fails to follow certain guidelines when creating a program, this could obstruct other developers and maintenance teams when working with the code during the product lifecycle, thus creating delays and additional costs.

In safety-critical industries, there is the standard IEC 61508 which in 2011 was also extended to PLCS. However, as quality is becoming an ever more important factor across the board, as programs become bigger and more complex, it is generally good practice to follow a set of rules or a standard in all industries. PLCopen’s coding guidelines suggest a standard that can be used across all industries to greatly improve the quality of the code and, as a result, to help companies save time and money. The introduction of such a standard will allow PLC programs to be verified not only from the simple functionality perspective but also from a coding perspective by confirming that good practice programming rules have been followed in their creation. Consistency across PLC programs can only be achieved through the respect of a global corporate or industrial standard, with PLCopen now being the de facto standard in the automation industry.

With quality playing a greater role in industry and with companies always looking for cost saving methods, the answer is to use some sort of standard or set of rules in order to meet these goals. PLCopen have created this standard to improve quality and consistency across PLC programs and so that individual industries and companies don’t have to go to the effort of creating a set of rules themselves. In addition to the internal benefits, this standard will also allow companies to enforce their quality requirements on suppliers, software contractors and system integrators. The only issue for now is that the process for verifying these rules is done manually by most users as they are unaware that some tools are available to do this automatically. But overall, following a standard such as the one proposed by PLCopen, will greatly improve the quality of the program and will save time and money throughout the whole duration of the product lifecycle.

• The PLCopen coding guidelines v1.0 are available for free download from the PLCopen website.

#PAuto #PLCs 

Compact portable hygrometer for convenient spot checks.

The MDM50 portable hygrometer from Michell Instruments makes taking spot checks of dew point or moisture content down to -50°C dew point quick, easy and simple.

Because it has its own self-contained sampling system, setting up the MDM50 involves simply connecting the hose to the sample point: there are no extra sample conditioning add-ons to purchase or to carry around. The integral sampling system allows for measurements of dew point to be made at pressure, up to 20 barg, with an option available to measure up to 300 barg. The integrated filter removes particulates down to 0.3μm which provides 99.5% protection to the sensor.

A long battery life is essential for making measurements in the field, especially in locations where there is limited access to charging points, so the MDM50 portable hygrometer has an operation time of 16 hours on one full charge. This means users have the confidence that they can work all day without having to stop taking measurements for charging. The universal charger fits neatly into the case when not in use to make sure it’s always handy.

The fast-responding polymer moisture sensor of the MDM50 gives rapid dew-point measurements in compressed air – T95 to -35°C from ambient typically in less than 5 minutes. The sensing element is highly stable, resistant to contamination and, along with the robust and sturdy case, this means the hygrometer is well-suited to the often tough conditions in industrial applications.

As well as dew point in compressed/instrument-air dryers, typical applications for the MDM50 include moisture measurements in medical gases, polymer chip and the output from refrigerated dryers.

• Michell Instruments products are marketed by Instrument Technology.

@Michell_Inst #PAuto 

IR cameras now more affordable.

Until 31st December 2016, selected models from the Fluke TiS Performance Series Infrared Camera range are now more affordable for customers to solve problems and avoid expensive downtime. This popular series of rugged thermal imaging cameras, with up to 320 x 240 resolution and an easy-to-use interface, produce high quality, focused images that enable users to produce better analysis and presentation of results which can also be shared with colleagues off-site wirelessly, via a smartphone or tablet, using Fluke Connect® technology.

Companies conducting infrared inspections want the high quality images that Fluke’s TiS Series offers, to enable better analysis, presentation, and professionalism. Poorly focused images make it difficult to see details and also impact temperature measurement accuracy. With the TiS range’s sharply focused image, there is distinct contrast between areas of varying thermal energy on the surface being inspected. This allows the individual pixels to clearly report the intensity of the energy being focused on them.

Fluke patented IR-Fusion® technology on the TiS Series cameras combines a visible light and an infrared image into one, giving better clarity. More detail can be seen by adjusting the level of infrared and visible light blending in AutoBlend mode, while ‘picture-in-picture’ helps to clearly identify the exact location by providing the centre part of the display in IR and the remainder of the image in visible light. Also included is Fluke SmartView® software, which provides a suite of advanced tools to view, optimise, annotate, and analyse infrared images, and generate fully customisable professional reports.

The Fluke Connect system is a preventive maintenance software platform that wirelessly links Fluke test tools to smartphones or tablets, and to the cloud where measurements can be viewed, graphed, shared and stored for trending and further analysis. Problems can be pinpointed faster by pulling in other measurement types like electrical and vibration into the thermal image. Access to historical data and reports are possible from the field. Measurement data is automatically uploaded to the cloud via the free Fluke Connect app.

@FlukeCorp  #Pauto #TandM

Thursday 29 September 2016

Sensor for verification and inspection.

The new Boa Spot ID is a low cost identification vision sensor from Teledyne DALSA that combines 1D/2D code reading with OCR and verification tools for a host of product identification, verification and tracking applications. It can handle up to 45 parts/second. It is marketed by Stemmer.

Supplied with integrated lighting and choices of sensor resolution, lenses and software tools, Boa Spot ID can be used for part and product traceability, reading product codes to avoid labeling mix-ups, and validating product type, lot and expiration date codes. It can also be used to check that markings and label positions are correct and the presence or absence of features as well as checking assembly history at every stage of manufacturing.

The extraordinary flexibility of the Boa Spot ID enables the appropriate model to be matched to the application, based on the code reading requirements. The choice of 2 sensor resolutions, integrated red, white or blue LED ring lighting and 4 integrated lenses or 6-50 mm external C-mount lenses allows the field of view, magnification and reading distances to be precisely matched to the particular 1D and 2D code size and type.

The standard toolset provides fast, robust decoding of most 1D barcode and 2D matrix code symbologies and verifies the quality of the code against ISO/AIM industry standards. It reliably reads Data Matrix and QR codes even with damaged or missing finder patterns as well as poorly printed, low contrast, noisy, warped and damaged barcodes. It can also decode multiple barcodes in the same image. The expanded toolset includes an advanced algorithm which offers greater robustness for decoding marks etched or dot peened on plastic or metallic surfaces. The standard toolset can be field upgraded to the expanded version if required.

The expanded toolset also offers additional tools for applications that require more than just code reading. These include match, edge, verify and graphics tools. The Match tool is used to verify patterns such as logos or locate features on a product or package. The Edge tool is used for determining label position or alignment or to determine the number of products in a package. The Verify tool can be trained on a series of good samples in order to verify product features, such as labels or logos. It can also detect defects on labels caused by poor printing, ink stains, scuffs or tears. The Graphics tool enables text to be added to a runtime image for example to inform operators what to do in case of error.

The Boa Spot is a slimline integrated IP67 solution with flexible mounting options allowing it to be mounted in very small spaces. It provides versatile I/O for control and interfacing and built-in Ethernet factory communication protocols.

@stemmerimaging #Pauto @TeledyneDALSA

Wednesday 28 September 2016

Software dedicated solely to pharma and biotech industries.

Werum IT Solutions has released a standalone version of its PAS-X KPI software product. PAS-X KPI is the only KPI/OEE tool dedicated solely to the pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical industries. It is capable of seamlessly integrating data both from the ERP level and the machine level at the shop floor. By allowing comparisons and evaluations of operating data at production lines in different facilities, it provides an enterprise-wide, single source point of data.

“Providing significantly improved transparency on the shop floor, PAS-X KPI helps plant managers take expedient, appropriate measures to maximize production performance – all without any additional machines or operators,” says Matthias Köhler, Senior Head of Strategic Program Management, Werum IT Solutions GmbH.

“The new PAS-X KPI is easy to deploy because it is a standalone product independent from our PAS-X MES,” adds Lars Hornung, Senior Director Global Sales, Werum IT Solutions GmbH. “Very interesting for many of our customers is that we offer a trial ‘proof of concept’ installation: Pharma and biotech manufacturers can test PAS-X KPI in their own production environment for a stated term.”

Werum’s KPI/OEE tool is browser-based and supports multiple delivery methods, including site installation and enterprise cloud. It offers the option to scale up MES functionality easily, e.g. Electronic Batch Recording (EBR).

PAS-X KPI automatically collects process data related to Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) in real time. Results are displayed on various monitors in easily understandable terms to enable quick decision making. Operators and supervisors can continuously view the up-to-date status of their lines, including production goals and target achievements. Plant managers benefit from standardized reports with aggregated operating figures for analyses in larger contexts.

@WerumKarriere #PAuto

Highly reliable industrial wireless communications infrastructure.

Yokogawa has announced that it has received a Technology Award from the Society of Instrument and Control Engineers (SICE) for its achievements in the development of industrial wireless technology. The award was presented on September 22. Encouraged by this, Yokogawa will continue working to develop and popularize industrial wireless technology.

The Technology Award is in the highest rank of awards conferred by SICE. It is given in recognition of the development of a technology or methodology within the past five calendar years that represents a significant advance in any one of the science & technology fields or industries in which SICE is involved. Yokogawa received this award for the development of a Highly reliable industrial wireless communications infrastructure.

Reason for winning
• As interest in the Internet of Things (IoT) continues to grow, industrial wireless networks are being introduced for industrial automation applications where there is a need to improve the monitoring of production facilities. Yokogawa has greatly expanded the possibilities for wireless instrumentation by releasing the industry’s first fully duplex wireless system based on the ISA100 Wireless international standard (IEC 62734), which was developed for plant applications requiring highly reliable wireless technology. With its ability to update data every second, capability to collectively manage up to 500 devices, and dual redundant communication paths and system devices that prevent the loss of data, this wireless system achieves the high reliability required in process automation.
• Yokogawa has won this Technical Award for a paper that was presented on this subject at the SICE Annual Conference 2015, which was held last July in Hangzhou, China.

The technologies and applications covered by the IEC 62734 standard, whose formal designation is ‘Wireless systems for industrial automation: Process control and related applications,’ were specified by IEC/TC65/SC65C/WG16 based on ISA100.11a, an international wireless communications standard for industrial automation.

@YokogawaIA #PAuto #SICE #ISA100 

MES business has new leader!

James O’Brien has been appointed by Zenith Technologies to lead its manufacturing execution system (MES) business to its next phase of growth.

James O'Brien
Over the past five years, Zenith Technologies has strategically grown its MES offering globally to meet growing demand for technology-based manufacturing efficiency programs in the life science sector.

In his role as MES business unit lead, James will use his background in software development, consultancy and technology implementation to continue to develop Zenith Technologies as a world leader in the provision of MES solutions and services to the life science industry.

This company assists pharmaceutical and medical device manufacturers with the implementation of MES solutions, providing on-the-ground support. James will be focused on forming further collaborations in the industry to support life science companies with the transition to MES and automated systems.

Commenting on the appointment, Jim Lehane, director at Zenith Technologies, said: “James has worked with us as a senior MES engineer for a number of years, supporting some of the world’s leading pharmaceutical companies with global automation projects. In his new role as MES business unit lead, James will drive Zenith Technologies forward to further success in the US and Europe, leveraging our global presence, skilled engineers and world-class implementation and support services.”

James’ appointment comes as MES technology is being adopted by the life science industry at a faster rate than any other vertical market.1 To support demand, the firm recently announced a partnership with MES software provider Werum IT Solutions.

Jim continued: “It’s an exciting time for our company, as pharmaceutical and medical device manufacturers are recognising the benefits of MES and adoption is increasing at a steady rate. In particular, we are experiencing increasing demand in the US market, which has led us to open two new offices in Oakland and San Diego.”

Based in Bluebell, PA, James will lead Zenith Technologies’ team of engineers in 16 offices globally to support clients with their manufacturing enterprise solution needs.

He said: “MES technology can dramatically improve productivity during manufacturing, however there are a number of challenges associated with its implementation. It is our goal to assist companies with the transition to MES systems so they can realise the benefits with minimal disruption to their operations.”

 @ZenithIre #PAuto #Pharma #USA #MES

Connecting devices wirelessly by bolt!

HMS Industrial Networks has introduced The Anybus Wireless Bolt — a wireless access point designed to be mounted on a machine or cabinet to give it wireless access via WLAN, Bluetooth or Bluetooth Low Energy. This access makes it possible to do configuration via a regular tablet or smartphone or connect to a cloud service, realizing Industrial IoT.

“We have seen a steadily growing interest in wireless connectivity through our Anybus Wireless Bridge,” says Martin Falkman, Product Manager at HMS Industrial Networks. “Therefore, we wanted to offer machine builders a robust, industrial-grade wireless solution for on-machine mounting. The Anybus Wireless Bolt is yet another way that HMS enables customers to realize IIoT with solid and secure wireless solutions, getting them ready for the communication demands of the future.”

The unit is mounted onto a machine or cabinet (just like a bolt) to give it a robust and IP67-classed wireless interface. It is typically used for configuration purposes. For example, the Bolt makes it possible to Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) such as a tablet or smartphone to a machine and use it as an HMI. Another typical use case is connecting a machine to a cloud service.

The Wireless Bolt can communicate wirelessly up to 100 meters via WLAN, Bluetooth or Bluetooth Low Energy. On the wired side, the Anybus Wireless Bolt can communicate with devices on serial (RS232/485), CAN or Ethernet. Regardless of communication method, it has the same connector (2x9p Plug Connector) for both power and communication.

@HMSAnybus #PAuto #IoT #Wireless

Ireland Section members at ISA Leaders Meeting


Delegates of the Ireland Section at the International Society of Automation (ISA) Leaders Meeting this weekend with ISA President 2016 - Jim Keaveney
From Left:  Dave O'Brien, Billy Walsh, President Jim Keaveney, Brian Curtis, John Murphy (Section President 2016-17).
ISA Leaders Meetings engage a cross-section of ISA volunteer leaders in the policy-setting and decision-making process during two to four days of work sessions focused on society business held in a face-to-face setting.

The meetings usually begins with a Kick-off Session where information about Society initiatives is shared and ends with a Wrap-up Session where key decisions are announced. All attendees should participate in the Kick Off and Wrap Up sessions.

Leadership training is integrated throughout the schedule. The meeting flow minimizes conflicts, enables cross-pollination, and provides time for discussion and networking during breaks, lunches, and receptions to strengthen relationships.

Districts are encouraged to schedule their District Leadership Conferences in conjunction with the FLM.

The next leaders meeting will be the Spring event and will be held in Raleigh, NC USA, close to the ISA World Headquarters.

The Election for new Society Leaders for 2017-2018 is being held at present. Brian Curtis of the Ireland Section has been nominated for the Position Secretary/President Elect. The vote concludes on Friday 30th September 2016 and the results will be announced shortly afterwards.

#PAuto #Ireland #ISAuto

Tuesday 27 September 2016

Filter, regulator, and lubricator (FRL).

Emerson has introduced the ASCO Numatics 651 Series filter, regulator, and lubricator (FRL) line of air preparation products. This new FRL line broadens the company's high flow-rate 650 Series family to include products with G1/8 and G1/4 port sizes.

"The 651 Series FRLs require less space and are designed to fit in compact applications and in machines that require a high volume of air," said Enrique Pelayo, ASCO European Product Marketing Manager. "With the highest flow rates for their size, these highly versatile air preparation products are ideal for packaging and other applications that require space-saving designs."

The 651 Series extended high and low temperature capabilities (-40° C to 80° C) enable them to be used in applications across a broad range of industries, including those in harsh environments. The modular FRL products are of a robust construction and are easy to assemble, mount, and position. The new manifold endplate flanges allows the maintenance engineer to remove the manifold assembly out of service without disconnecting from the piping. Front-facing, low-profile gauges are easy to read and are unique in products of this type.

@ASCOValve #PAuto @ASCO_EU 

Housing allows two modules.

Han-Modular® Twin is a new connector housing that allows two modules from the Harting Han-Modular® range to be combined in a space-saving and flexible way. The new angular housing means that the system is now easy to use as a motor connector.

In a typical configuration, the housing is fitted to the motor in place of the terminal box with the Han-Modular® Twin mounted at a 90° angle to the motor. The power connector is particularly useful for bigger motors up to 70 A.

Han-Modular® Twin can also be used as a double interface, for example combining a module for 4 × 40 A inserts and a second module for 25 signal or data contacts. This arrangement offers a new connection option for servo motors, combining one rectangular and two circular connectors. As a result, a faulty motor can be changed very quickly to reduce production down-time.

Measuring 39 × 44 mm, the Han-Modular® Twin has the appearance of a small format IP65 industrial connector. The hood is in two parts – an upper part with the cable inlet and the carrier housing underneath. This design makes it easier to fit the inserts into the hood, allowing the cable to be fitted faster and more securely. Cable-to-cable connections can also be made without additional coupling housings or special components.

@Harting, #Pauto

Monday 26 September 2016

Upgrade helps keep energy flowing in the Philippines.

On-time, on-budget automation upgrade enhances reliability of Malampaya natural gas operation

Reliable operations are essential for the Malampaya natural gas production and processing facilities run by Shell Philippines Exploration B.V. (SPEX). Gas from the Malampaya field powers generating stations that provide up to 40 percent of the electricity for Luzon, the Philippines’ largest island and home to more than 48 million people.

Ron Martin - Emerson
Emerson recently upgraded automation technology to improve the reliability of the Malampaya operation, and by finishing the work ahead of schedule helped SPEX restore the supply of gas as planned so the Philippines would benefit from the continued use of reliable and cleaner-burning natural gas to power its economy.

As part of the automation upgrade, Emerson specialists helped SPEX execute a planned upgrade to address the impending obsolescence of the safety system on its onshore gas processing facility and a planned upgrade of the control systems, networks, and valve equipment on its offshore production platform. Emerson experts worked closely with SPEX in planning the changes to ensure the shortest possible downtime, as well as the safety of more than 75 workers who would be involved.

“The Emerson team helped us complete the work without any safety or environmental incident, on time, and with the right quality,” said Bonifacio Lapuz, Turnaround Manager, who managed the project for SPEX.

Safety and operational performance at Malampaya also won recognition for SPEX as Shell’s Upstream Asset of the Year. “Our success reflects the collaboration of everyone involved,” noted SPEX managing director, Sebastian Quiniones. “Everyone worked as a team.”

Emerson has provided automation technologies and services for the Malampaya operation since its inception more than 15 years ago.

“We understand Malampaya’s importance, and we knew there was no room for cost, schedule, or technical risk,” said Ron Martin, president Asia Pacific, Emerson Automation Solutions. “But with our technologies and the project tools and expertise we’ve developed and proven on hundreds of similar jobs, we were able to deliver a reliable, on-time solution with the certainty SPEX and its customers needed.”


@EmersonProcess #PAuto #Gas

Development of new gas detection technologies.

Edinburgh Sensors, has a worldwide reputation for high performance gas sensing solutions which is built on 40 years of experience. A dedicated R&D team focuses on the development of new technologies, pushing the boundaries for gas detection.

Changes in global consumer patterns create new requirements for gas detection and the path to new gas detection solutions can be challenging. We work closely with our customers to find solutions for their current needs. The new 0-100% CO2 Gascard NG+ has been developed in co-operation with one of our customers who required an alternative performance specification to the standard Gascard NG, specifically reduced response time and noise. By compromising with the long term stability and drift we were able to modify the optical system used in our 100% CO2 product.

We are always working on new sensors and gas ranges; if you can’t see your particular specification listed among our standard products our technical team would be delighted to hear from you to discuss your target gas and concentration requirements.

@Edinst #Pauto #Sensors

Sunday 25 September 2016

ATEX inspection tools for hire!

Responding to increased market demand for equipment that is certified for use in potentially explosive environments (ATEX), Ashtead Technology has become one of the first rental companies to heavily invest in the latest ATEX certified remote control crawlers and push-rod cameras.

“We have received a large number of requests for these specialised systems in recent months from a wide range of customers,” says Ashtead’s Sales Manager, Jay Neermul. “Increasingly, drain inspection and remediation contractors are being required to offer services in potentially explosive atmospheres so we have expanded the fleet to include a selection of camera systems for both zone 1 and zone 2 operation.”
The new purchases include multiple units of the latest inspection equipment such as EX versions of the iPEK Rovion Crawler and the iPEK Agilios Push Rod Camera, which are both Zone 1 certified. The camera on the Rovion crawler has a 10x optical zoom for clearer images and produces high-quality PAL video, and both sides of the powerful 6-wheel-drive can be controlled independently. The Agilios push rod camera also offers advanced features; with high pipe-bend mobility, it has an operating range of up to 90m and is suitable for inspections starting at a diameter of just 52mm (house laterals). It also has LED lighting, a high quality, robust, axial camera, and a constantly upright picture.

The Zone 2 certified Minicam Proteus crawler has also been added to the fleet. Engineered, built and tested for safe use in some of the most dangerous situations, without compromising on any of the features of other Proteus crawlers, the ATEX version makes working in explosion-risk environments much easier and safer than alternative methods.

Summarising the justification for this investment, James Carlyle, General Manager says: “By adding this technology to our rental fleet we are enabling our clients to bid on a wider range of projects, confident in the knowledge that they have access to all the necessary technologies without the capital cost of ownership – put simply, we invest in this equipment so that our customers don’t have to.”


@ashteadtech  #PAuto 

Saturday 24 September 2016

The automation imperative! Call for Papers!

The Advisory Board of the 4th ISA EMEA Conference, the principal event dedicated to all aspects of process automation, control and instrumentation technologies, is now accepting abstracts for the 2017 conference to be held in Bergamo (I) on 24-25 May 2017.

The 4th ISA EMEA Conference will feature the industry’s most comprehensive multi-track conferences, examining critical aspects of the process automation, control, and instrumentation technologies. Conference tracks, featuring sessions led by the world’s leading experts, will cover critical topics in the areas of instrumentation, communications, control systems, process variables, SCADA, safety, integration, and cybersecurity.
Topics
• Control systems, SCADA
• Communications, networks, data management
• Instrumentation, sensors, peripherals
• Process and functional safety
• Systems integration
• Cybersecurity
Engineers, technicians, and plant managers from the oil and gas, refining, chemical, petrochemical, power and other process industries will gather for two days to network and to learn from these technical presentations.

The conferences run alongside a wide exhibition floor featuring the leading suppliers, sub-suppliers and service providers across the entire automation and control industry value chain.

The conference Advisory Board, made up of key industry experts, will put emphasis on emerging technologies and trends. The conference featuring high–quality papers addressing strategic direction, practical implementation and technical excellence will combine to create an essential guide to the challenges and opportunities in world’s automation and control industry.

The theme for conference is ‘The automation imperative: welcome to the future of the Global Energy Industry’. The conference is an opportunity to take a health check on strategic and technical developments right across the entire automation and control industry value chain.

#PAuto #ISAuto #EMEA #ISAEMEA17

Friday 23 September 2016

Data acquisition and test stand automation using an OPC UA interface. #DelphinTechnology #PAuto

Delphin Technology has extended its Expert Logger range with the new type 400 model equipped with an OPC UA Client/Server interface. This enhancement to the independently functioning data logger system ideally equips it for the universal exchange of measurement data at field level and for the requirements of Industry 4.0. The Expert Logger device is also equipped with ProfiBus, ModBus, CAN-Bus and serial interfaces. PCs are connected via USB, LAN, WLAN and LTE.

The new type 400 is equipped with 16 universally usable, differential analog inputs for measuring mV and mA signals or any type of thermocouple. 24-bit precision and a maximum rate of 1000 measurements per second meets the highest demands required from a data logger. The new Expert Logger also has the option of measuring Pt100(0) sensors using 2, 3 or 4 wire technology or DMS. The device has a total of 24 switchable digital inputs/outputs which can record edge and fault events at microsecond precision as well as output alerts. A total of 6 analog outputs enable the operation of regulating and control elements.

The Expert Logger series offer a range of model types with 16 to 46 analog inputs which are ideal for independent data acquisition and test bench automation. Monitoring functions can also be performed independently within the device. Measurement data and threshold violations can be immediately transmitted to subsystems via OPC UA. The OPC UA interface also offers data exchange to PLC systems and connecting to PLT systems.

Furthermore, the ProfiSignal Go software – for portraying and analysing measurement data online and offline – remains a fixed element of every Expert Logger device.

Radar level transmitter.

The FMR10 and FMR20 free space radar level transmitters  from Endress+Hauser measure liquid levels in storage tanks, open basins, open channels, weirs and canal systems. The FMR10 measures liquid levels at ranges up to 16 feet with 0.2 inch accuracy, while the FMR20 measures levels up to 66 feet with 0.08 inch accuracy.

The FMR10 has a 4-20mA output and comes standard with Bluetooth for configuration. The SmartBlue App that runs on any Apple or Android smartphone or tablet will provide secure communications with the transmitter in order to configure or view envelope curves. The encrypted and password-protected Bluetooth wireless connection allows operators to monitor the sensor’s output and perform configurations in hazardous or unsafe locations without exposing personnel to dangerous conditions.

The FMR20 features a 4-20mA HART smart output which will allow for configuration from an optional remote display. It also offers the option of Bluetooth configuration just like the FMR10.

Protection to IP66/68 / NEMA 4X/6P, hermetically sealed wiring and fully potted electronics eliminate water ingress and allow operation under harsh environmental conditions. Both sensors are available with a flooding tube that allows a maximum output signal to be generated even if an overflow condition causes the sensor to be completely immersed.

The level sensors work in process temperatures of–40 to 176°F (–40 to 80°C) and process pressures of –14 to 43 psi (–1 to 3 bar), are vibration resistant, and have CSA/UL approvals.

Micropilot FMR10 and FMR20 provide the best price-performance ratio. For the first time, radar technology is available in the price range of typical water and wastewater level devices. Especially for the W&WW industry and utilities in all industries, the transmitters fit the application requirements. Easy setup with just three main parameters and a remote indicator solution result in time savings and enhanced safety.

@Endress_Hauser #PAuto @Endress_US 

Chromatography mass spectrometry event.

On day one (2nd November) of WWEM 2016, Environmental and Food Analysis SIG (EFASIG), a special interest group within the British Mass Spectrometry Society, will hold a meeting that will be free to attend for those that have pre-registered to visit WWEM 2016.

Professor Luigi Mondello
The keynote presentation with be given by Professor Luigi Mondello from the University of Messina in Italy. Prof. Mondello is the author of around 400 publications and his research interests include high-resolution chromatography techniques (HRGC, HPLC, HRGC-MS, HPLC-MS, OPLC) and the development of hyphenated (LC-GC-MS, GC-GC) and multidimensional ‘comprehensive’ (GC×GC, LC×LC) techniques and their application in the study of natural complex matrices.

The presentations will focus on the analysis of water and wastewater, but will include the analysis of liquid, liquid/solid mixtures and air samples. With speakers from academia, commercial laboratories and manufacturers, the morning session will address aspects of comprehensive Chromatography Mass Spectrometry, and the afternoon session will address the application of these techniques to water and environmental matrices.

Summarising, EFASIG Leader Dr Peter Baugh says: “We have managed to assemble a group of eminent and highly respected speakers, so these presentations will be of great value to anyone involved in environmental analysis.”


#spectrometry  #WWEM #Environment

Nuálaíocht Inbhuanaithe agus Oideachas Innealtóireachta.

Tá caint le tabhairt ag Fionnbarra Ó Brolcháin, léachtaí de chuid Scoil Ghnó Smurfit agus iar-ollamh airgeadais i DCU ag Cumann na nInnealteoirí i mBaile Átha Cliath an mí seo chugainn. (Deireadh Fómhair 2016).

Seo achoimre den ábhar a bheidh á phlé faoin dtideal: "Nuálaíocht Inbhuanaithe agus Oideachas Innealtóireachta!"
Fionnbarra Ó Brolcháin ag múineadh i Scoil Ghnó Smurfit, UCD. Is  iar-ollamh airgeadais é i DCU, áit ar bhunaigh sé freisin an lár-ionad Gaeilge, Fiontar. Is comhúdár an leabhair é, Digging Deeper (le teacht, 2016), Gombeens at the Gate (2016), The Irish Edge (2013) agus Capitalising on Culture, Competing on Difference (2008). Tá céim innealtóireacht leictreach aige ó UCC agus PhD in airgeadas idirnáisiúnta aige ó Scoil Ghnó Stern, Ollscoil Nua Eabhrach (NYU). 

Cé go raibh na gluaiseachtaí a mhúnlaigh an Athbheochan (1890-1920), agus a spreag Éirí Amach na Cásca 1916 agus bunú an tSaorstáit, neamhspléach óna chéile, bhí siad idirghaolmhar agus bhí saintréithe áirithe lárnach i ngach ceann. San Athbheochan, chonaic siad siúd a bhí páirteach ann acmhainní cultúrtha agus nádúrtha mar ghnéithe rí-thábhachtacha in eitic nuálaíochta de bharr naisc idir féin-tuiscint, féin-mheas, féiniúlacht agus éiteas cruthaitheachta.

Sa lá atá inniú ann, nó go háirithe inniú, is iad na hacmhainní is luachmhaire agus is inbhuanaithí chun nuálaíocht a spreagadh ná iad atá neamhinste, an tsamhlaíocht agus an inspioráid, ach go háirithe. Ní déantán marbh frith-nua-aimseartha agus frith-gheilleagrach é an traidisiún agus cuimhne ach foinse dhinimiciúl agus uathúil, cineál gorlann cruthaitheachta agus fiontraíochta. Dá mbaintear níos mó feidhme as saintréithe mar iad, thiománfadh san núalaíocht inbhuanaithe agus todhchaí sochaí na tíre.

Luíonn gach atá anseo le nuálaíocht agus le hoideachas innealtóirí fud fad na cruinne, agus buntáistí faoi leith a bhaineann linnne in Èirinn nó as Éirinn.

Am/dáta:  
18:30, Dé Céadaoin, 12ú Deireadh Fómhair 2016.

Láthair: 
Cumann na nInnealtóirí, 22 Br. Cluaidhe, BÁC 4. 

Caifé/tae agus eile ag an mbeár roimhré agus taréis na léachta.  

Saor-chead isteach.   Fáilte roimh chách. 

 @EngineerIreland

Hygienic certification for sensors.

SKS Automaatio Oy has acquired a hygienic design certification for certain acid proof SKS Sensors® sensor types. This opens new sales opportunities for their sensors in Food industry, Pharmaceutical, Beverage manufacturing, Laboratory use etc.

The hygienic design EHEDG certification is for SKS Sensors® sensor types W-E-x-HST-CLAMP/51-30/1000-4-A-yy-HD. This opens new sales opportunities for their sensors in Food industry, Pharmaceutical, Beverage manufacturing, Laboratory use etc. So mostly to applications where very high hygienic level is a must.

They have manufactured similar sensors for a long time, and during recent years they have noticed increasing interest for sensors with certification. Being able to respond to this increasing need they started certification process and qualified for this certificate for theirmost common hygiene applications sensor type.

A wide range of installation accessories is also available from us for these sensors.

• SKS products are marketed in Ireland by PJ Bonner.


#SKSAutomaatio #PAuto #Food #Pharma @pjbonnerco 

Thursday 22 September 2016

Flow meter for oil and gas applications.

Krohne has extended the available options for the H250 M40 flowmeter in order to match the requirements of the oil and gas industry. Here, variable area flowmeters are widely used for flow measurement on injection skids for corrosion-, scale- and hydrate-inhibitors like Methanol or Monoethylene Glycol. Common areas of application are also measuring agents and solvents in gas treatment processes like sweetening and dehydration of natural gas as well as reliably monitoring small amounts of Nitrogen and Fuel gas.

Standard materials for the range of DN15…150 / ½…6" flanged process meters include NACE MR0175/MR0103 compliant 316L or materials and welding following the NORSOK standard. Hastelloy, Monel, 6Mo, Titanium and now also Inconel are available as optional materials to provide high corrosion resistance to any kind of fluid. Stainless steel indicator housings and offshore protective coatings can be applied on request.

Flange connections reach up to ASME B16.5 Class 2500 flanges. Even higher pressure ratings can be realised when applying API flanges. For hazardous gas and dust areas, H250 M40 has achieved more than 30 approvals worldwide, including ATEX, IECEx, usFMc, NEPSI, INMETRO, KGS, EAC and PESO/CCOE. For quality assurance, comprehensive tests and certifications are in place such as positive material identification, material mill certificates, x-ray and dye-penetration examination of the welding seams, pressure and leakage tests, and finally third party factory inspection.

• Krohne products are marketed in Ireland through DWN.

@krohnegroup #Pauto @KROHNE_USA

Ethernet switches.

To meet the growing need for more capacity in train communications networks, Westermo has introduced a new generation of Ethernet train switches that provide highly robust networks to support many end devices and high data rates. Specifically designed for train applications, the wide range of interoperable Viper switches delivers reliable and versatile solutions for train networks, enabling optimal configuration for every need.

Based on the previous well proven and highly popular train switches from Westermo, the new models provide a range of 12 and 20 ports standard Ethernet, Gigabit Ethernet and PoE (Power over Ethernet) variants as well as additional routing functionality to enable the connection of subnets and improved overall network performance.

The Viper is available with up to 5 gigabit ports to meet the need for connectivity of gigabit end devices, such as WLAN access points and network video recorders. Simultaneously, lightning fast failover on gigabit ring ports can be achieved.

The Viper offers eight PoE ports that support the IEEE 802.3af/at plug-and-play PoE communications standard. PoE enables both power and data to be transmitted on a single multi-core cable, especially useful for camera applications, reducing overall wiring and enabling faster installation. The Viper with PoE is available in variants for low or high voltage power supply range allowing installation in any rail vehicle regardless of power standard. The Viper can also provide gigabit speed over the PoE ports, making the switch ideal e.g. for WLAN access points.

Specifically designed to provide highly robust networks and long term field operation, the Viper range has been tested and approved to exceed the EN 50155 on-board railway standard for electronic equipment, as well as an extended range of approvals with NFPA 130 (NA fire & smoke) and shunting radio EMC requirements from European rail authorities.

The Viper has been designed to be very compact and ultra-thin, enabling installation within the confined spaces of railcar panels. The M12 connectors are integrated into the housing to reduce size and further protect against vibration. With an ultra-robust design, sealed to IP67 and vibration resistant to military standards, these units are ideal for situations where mechanical stress, moisture, condensation; dirt or continuous vibrations could adversely affect the function of standard Ethernet switches. A GORE-TEX(R) membrane is used to prevent condensation build up by normal climatic day/night cycling.

As well as high levels of reliability, the switches offer unique functionality that simplifies the creation, installation and maintenance of networks. The Viper switches’ WeOS operating system provides an extensive suite of IP networking features and protocols allowing resilient and flexible networks to be created.

WeOS is also able to balance data traffic on the network to maintain maximum throughput and stability. The introduction of increased traffic from new cameras or video streams will therefore not affect the stability of the network. In the event of any link or hardware failure Westermo’s unique FRNT technology is able to re-configure a large network in 20ms.

For easy configuration, the Ethernet switches can be safely accessed from anywhere in the network using the WeConfig network configuration tool, or directly via a console port on switch.

@Westermo #PAuto #Transportation @HHC_Lewis

Wednesday 21 September 2016

Frequency selectable RF power sensor: A world first!

The Power Master MA24507A is an ultraportable, millimeter wave (mmWave) power analyser that enables simple, numeric, frequency based measurement of RF power from 9 kHz to 70 GHz has been introduced by Anritsu. The world’s first frequency selectable RF power analyzer, the Power Master MA24507A leverages Anritsu’s patented Shockline technology, along with its leadership in ultraportable test solution design to address the growing number of test requirements in mmWave applications, including test of 802.11ad, Wireless HD, and E-band products, at every stage of the product lifecycle.

As signal frequency increases, attenuation due to the air or cabling grows, which can make power measurements particularly difficult at mmWave frequencies. Its ultraportable size overcomes this challenge by enabling users to place it directly at the signal source, including on-wafer measurements. When system losses are unavoidable, the MA24507A can make measurements as low as -90 dBm at 70 GHz, making it a superior alternative to large benchtop instruments, which can be unwieldy in the field. USB-powered, the unit measures approximately 6×3×1 (inches) and weighs less than 15 oz. – slightly bigger than a smartphone. It is so small and light weight that it can easily be used to make measurements on antenna towers or with an extension pole to measure small cell signals from the ground.

Because the Power Master MA24507A enables frequency selective power measurements, users can differentiate intended signals from unintended signals for the first time. With spans from 1 kHz to full span over the entire frequency range, it can zero in on a signal of interest in harsh environments, including those with unintended signals that can impact power readings. This enables measurements such as channel power and adjacent channel power to be made, while avoiding spurs and harmonics.


Unlike many other power measurement instruments, no reference calibration is required. The power analyzer can stay connected to a test system constantly, eliminating the need to disconnect and reconnect it between test procedures. When the accuracy of a traditional power meter is not necessary, unintended signals may be present, or low-level power measurements are required, the Power Master MA24507A is the ideal instrument.

Anritsu has added features to PowerXpert™ to optimize the performance of the Power Master MA24507A. Included in the enhancements are a Power Hunter mode to easily identify the six highest CW amplitudes and their corresponding frequency, and a Channel Monitor mode so users can select up to six frequency channels and monitor their CW amplitude or channel power simultaneously. It can be controlled by remotely via the USB interface or through Anritsu’s PowerXpert™ data analysis and control software.

The Power Master MA24507A mmWave power analyzer is the second instrument in the new class of ultraportable instruments from Anritsu, succeeding the Site Master™ S331P ultraportable cable and antenna analyzer introduced earlier this month. “We are extremely excited to launch this disruptive design to the industry. The ultraportable product category allows our customers to reach new heights in portability, performance, and measurement accuracy,” commented Mark Elo, Anritsu’s Director of Product Marketing for the Service Infrastructure Solutions Division. Unlike anything on the market, Power Master enables simple, numeric, frequency-based measurement of RF power from 9 kHz to 70 GHz in a pocket sized instrument to as low as -90 dBm.

@AnritsuEMEA #TandM @anritsu

Secure data access across DMZs.

In today’s industrial automation world, it is standard practice for IT departments to lock down traffic between different networks. The most common method of selectively exchanging data between such secured networks is by using Demilitarized Zones (DMZs).

Key Benefits include:
• Works across multi-layered networks
• Eliminates traditional DCOM & firewall issues associated with DMZs
• Configurable data encryption
While DMZs offer a controlled method of exchanging data in the corporate world, they typically interfere with the exchange of control automation data between the operations and business networks. The Matrikon OPC DMZ Agent solves this challenge.

Matrikon OPC DMZ Agent facilitates the transfer of real-time and archived automation data through DMZs in a secure and controlled manner. Depending on the IT policies being enforced, DMZ Agent can either enable authorized enterprise applications to securely request the automation data needed or if this is not possible - to simply accept OPC data as it is sent (pushed) from the secured operations network.



@MatrikonOPC #PAuto #Cybersecurity

Touch control!

There is an increasing trend towards replacing mechanical knobs, buttons and switches in cars, household appliances and consumer electronic devices. Touch panels and displays with sensor technology are on the rise. In response to this megatrend, Leonhard Kurz has developed series-production ready solutions for the manufacture of decorated plastic components with embedded sensors.

Until now, plastic parts have predominantly been manually equipped with sensors using mainly the expensive OCA (optically clear adhesives) technology. Integration processes developed by Kurz, however, enable sensors to be applied very quickly and economically by machine.

The sensors, including electrical connection (tail), are permanently bonded to the component and are immediately functional. This has been achieved using the PolyTC sensor films developed by the Kurz subsidiary PolyIC. Compared to the ITO (indium tin oxide) films commonly used for sensors, the PolyTC films with high-resolution metal structures on a polyester carrier are significantly more elastic. This makes the sensors more deformable and thus suitable for curved surfaces.

A further advantage of PolyTC films is their high transparency and conductivity. This characteristic makes them ideal for use in automotive cockpits, where plastics with thicknesses of 2.5 and more millimeters may be used. While ITO films are no longer applicable at these thicknesses, PolyTC films remain reliably functional.

Kurz has developed plastic component decoration solutions that are tailored to the application of sensors. When metallic designs are employed, Kurz uses so-called NCVM (non-conductive vacuum metallized) films that do not interfere with the function of the capacitive sensor field. For surfaces with a dead front effect, translucent designs have been developed that are opaque when the illumination is inactive, but allow a backlit control panel to become visible on activation of the sensor. In the case of injection molded parts, a combined process has been developed that enables the component to be decorated and equipped with a sensor film in one shot.

 #Kurz #PAuto #Switches

Low-power compute module.


Mouser Electronics is now stocking the highly anticipated Intel® Curie™ module, a complete low-power solution designed for use in wearable devices and consumer and industrial edge solutions. Powered by the Intel® Quark™ SE system-on-chip (SoC), the Intel Curie module is extremely power efficient and offers features that are ideal for "always-on" applications such as social media, sports, and fitness activities.

The Intel Curie module, now available from Mouser Electronics, features a 32-bit Intel Quark SE SoC with 384 kBytes of flash memory and 80 kBytes of SRAM. The module includes an integrated DSP sensor hub, a 6-axis combination sensor with accelerometer and gyroscope, Bluetooth® low energy connectivity, battery charging through a power management IC (PMIC) on some models, and pattern-matching capabilities for optimized analysis of sensor data — enabling quick and easy identification of actions and motions.

The module is packaged into a very small form factor and is supported by a complete software platform that includes the Intel® Curie™ Open Developer Kit (ODK) to make it easier to realize new designs even faster. Created specifically for the Intel Curie module, the software platform is an end-to-end solution designed to assist developers by increasing the speed and ease of development of a wide variety of projects and market-ready products. The Intel Curie platform includes the hardware, firmware, software, documentation, and tools that empower developers to create their own unique and differentiated products.

 @MouserElecEU #PAuto @intel #wearable

Tuesday 20 September 2016

Gas detector achieves wireless certification.

The ISA100 Wireless Compliance Institute announces today that Riken Keiki’s SDWL1 wireless gas detector has successfully been certified as ISA100 Wireless interoperable, assuring that the SDWL1 will seamlessly join and interoperate in any other suppliers’ certified ISA100 Wireless network.

The SDWL1 is a wireless flammable gas detector built to extend the benefits of wireless detection into safety applications. The SDWL1’s non-dispersive infrared detection system ensures accuracy while the advanced reliability features of ISA100 Wireless ensure wireless communication signal truancy.

The SDWL1 increases on-site operational safety by enabling monitoring schemes that would be cost prohibitive or physically impossible using traditional, wired devices. The ISA100 Wireless SDWL1 eliminates most of the cable installation needs and reduces implementation time and costs. Operating costs are also reduced because wireless capabilities extend coverage of gas monitoring at operational sites, reducing the need for on-site inspections.

Using ISA100 Wireless networks assures robust, secure and reliable transmission of signals in safety systems. ISA100 Wireless supports controlled latency down to 100ms. It uses advanced reliability and co-existence mechanisms, such as DUOCAST, the simultaneous transmission of duplicate signals across independent network paths. And it features two layers of security, at the transport layer and data link layer. ISA100 Wireless solutions are now available with SIL2 approval.

“Developing wireless technology presented unique challenges versus wired, such as wireless design (high-frequency design technology), radio production, and Radio Law compliance,” said Hisayoshi Kobayashi, President, Riken Keiki. “ISA100 Wireless is an open standard. And certified ISA100 Wireless communication modules are readily available from various manufacturers that already solve these problems. We chose ISA100 Wireless and successfully developed a wireless sensor in a short period of time by using certified communication modules. I think other vendors will find ISA100 implementations to be easy. And because ISA100 Wireless products are interoperable, they can be used by any vendor in many markets.”

“Riken Keiki has a rich history in gas detection and life-safety systems, and we are pleased that they now offer wireless capabilities using ISA100 Wireless,” remarked Andre Ristaino, ISA100 WCI Managing Director. “We have been pleasantly surprised by the proliferation of ISA100 Wireless safety-related devices and applications like the Riken Keiki gas detector.”


 #riken_keiki #Pauto #ISA100 #WCI

No lab too small for a LIMS!

Many small laboratories have to comply with a variety of regulatory requirements but often rely on paper recording of sample data and entering the test results into an Excel spreadsheet. Matrix Express is Autoscribe’s entry-level ‘Out of the box’ Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) and provides all the key functions expected of a LIMS for smaller organisations. Capabilities include sample/work registration, work list creation, result entry, result validation, sample approval and a comprehensive set of reports.

John Boother, President at Autoscribe Informatics said: “Most small laboratories recognise that it would be much better if everything was logged in and recorded using a LIMS, but have concerns about cost. Matrix Express is not only extremely competitively priced but has the benefit it can be easily configured for any application. Equally importantly, laboratories using Matrix Express enjoy the same level of set-up and technical support from Autoscribe Informatics as would be expected for much larger and more complex installations. Not only that, for smaller labs that rely on a particular analyst for most of the testing, the use of Matrix Express could help to ensure that anyone new to the laboratory could easily follow all of the procedures”.

Matrix Express offers flexibility for single sample or batch registration, automatic sequential sample numbering, result entry by sample or test, multi-sample result entry, status by sample or test and much more. Report formats include certificate of analysis, turn-around time and sample audit trail. Whilst offering all the key functions expected of a LIMS, upgrades and additional modules are available to increase functionality at a later date if required.

“Matrix Express is in use in a wide variety of smaller organisations from single-analyst laboratories upwards, in both in-house and contract environments. It has also been purchased by an educational establishment to teach technicians of the future as part of a Chemical Laboratory Technician teaching program,” continued Boother. “Further details on the practical use of Matrix Express and our other Matrix products can be found in the numerous case studies available for download from our website.


#LIMS! @AutoscribeLtd #Laboratory 

Voltage transducers for the traction market.

The DVM series for insulated nominal voltage measurements in traction applications has been itroduced by LEM. This family of devices spans the range from 600-4200 VRMS and incorporates their proven and patented insulating technology. Despite achieving very high levels of isolation with a safety insulation voltage of 12 kV, the DVM transducer is compact, measuring only 138 x 63.4 x 69 mm.

It is fully compatible and out-performs the previous generation of transducers in terms of functions and performance with new improved levels of accuracy and temperature stability, thus greatly simplifying retrofits.

DVM is also suitable for base mounting, but with slightly different outline dimensions to take into consideration for primary and secondary connections locations for example. The DVM is 30% smaller in height, occupies 25% less volume and is 56% lighter! The reduction in size does not compromise the DVM’s high immunity against the external surrounding perturbations or against the high voltage variations. The new size is also an advantage when confronted with size constraints in modern railway propulsion converters.

LEM developed the DVM to be fully compliant with the International Railway Industry Standards (IRIS), providing engineers in the railway industry, who are working with both rolling stock and
sub-stations, with a versatile new transducer that is equally applicable to measuring network voltages, or the main converter DC link on-board trains. The feature set of the DVM voltage transducer also makes it an excellent fit for a broad range of medium to high voltage measurements in industrial markets.

DVM transducers measure voltages by a direct connection on their primary side, transfer the data across an internal isolation barrier and output a current from their secondary side; that is
proportional to the measured voltage thanks to LEM’s patented insulating digital technology. It
delivers an improved typical accuracy, compared to existing products, of +/- 0.5 % at +25°C with a higher stability in temperature. The technology used provides very high levels of immunity to external magnetic fields (almost insensitive) and electromagnetic disturbances (unmatched level). Combined with a highly focused internal electronic design applied on the printed circuit as well as for mechanical design performance reached in common mode condition are exceptional: 0.5% of nominal voltage as error generated with a recovery time of less than 50µs against a voltage of 4200 V applied with a step of 6 kV/us.

Its measurement frequency bandwidth (-3dB point) is 12 kHz and the DVM consumes typically only 30 mA when power supplied under +/-24 VDC (power supply range from +/- 13.5 to +/- 26.4 V DC). 2 kinds of current output ranges are possible either +/- 50 mA, or the standard industrial current-loop range of 4 to 20 mA for unipolar current measurements and one voltage output at 10 V for nominal voltage.

Other key features include a high level of partial discharge extinction voltage (5 kVRMS @ 10 pC) ensuring product long life, and its compliance to a range of internationally-recognised safety standards in addition to its adherence to IRIS specifications. It also exhibits a fast response time. A range of connection configurations, on both the primary and secondary side, increases flexibility for the user.

Designed by LEM in accordance with the latest standards applicable for traction and industry, the DVM uses materials that comply with all relevant fire and smoke requirements that are mandatory in railway applications. It is CE marked and is supplied with a five-year warranty, as are all LEM transducers.

#LEM #Transportation @NapierPR

Pharma MES partnership endorsed!

Werum IT Solutions has recertified NNE Pharmaplan as “Endorsed Service Partner” for Europe, the USA and China. Thus, NNE Pharmaplan, an international company specialised in pharma engineering, is qualified to support pharma and biotech companies with the implementation of Werum’s PAS-X MES.
From left: Mogens Larsson, VP Automation and IT, NNE Pharmaplan, Torsten Isenberg, Senior Director Services, Werum IT, Søren Mordhorst, Morten Kollberg, Manufacturing IT, NNE Pharmaplan
The collaboration brings together Werum’s PAS-X MES software, designed to increase efficiency, improve productivity and meet regulatory requirements during pharmaceutical manufacturing, with NNE Pharmaplan’s expertise in pharma engineering and customer service. The PAS-X software is used by the majority of the world’s top 30 pharmaceutical and biotech companies but also by many regional and mid-sized manufacturers. NNE Pharmaplan will provide local support for Werum customers during all MES implementation phases.

“We have been successfully working together with NNE Pharmaplan for many years,” says Torsten Isenberg, Senior Director Services at Werum IT Solutions GmbH. “As an Endorsed Service Partner, NNE Pharmaplan has the knowledge to provide our customers with high quality professional services and support. The main objective of our PAS-X Service Partner Program is to ensure a high level of support for our customers through reliable, experienced and certified partners.”

Søren Mordhorst, Manager Manufacturing IT at NNE Pharmaplan A/S, adds: “We are pleased to have renewed our partnership and to have certified PAS-X specialists throughout Europe, USA and China. Given our broad expertise within automation and IT in modern pharma production we can provide customers with consultancy and implementation services from the conceptual design phase to implementation, ensuring a high level of support on the PAS-X part as well”.

Monday 19 September 2016

Not "completely normal" switches!

They look like "completely normal" compact position switches with standard dimensions according to DIN EN 50047. But the construction details of the light and robust Ex 97 switching devices with plastic housings now available from steute's business unit "Extreme" make these devices unique.

The switches are tested and certified according to ATEX and IECEx for use in Gas Ex zones 1 and 2, as well as dust Ex zones 21 and 22. They can also be used in temperatures down to -60°C, which is a terribly demanding, most particularly for the construction and sealing of the housings. For example, the high protection class (IP 66) has to remain guaranteed at such low temperatures, even during a 7-Joule impact test.

For this reason the robust housings are manufactured from high-quality plastic with a glass fibre reinforcement which is partly textile in structure. In addition, the housing covers are completely vulcanised, guaranteeing that they remain sealed even upon impact. To seal the plungers, the steute developers have implemented a redundant sealing system comprising an external sealing cuff suitable for low temperatures and an internal Teflon sealing ring.

The sealing materials used have been classified by their own manufacturers for temperatures down to -95°C, and the lubricants used for temperatures down to -75°C. There is thus sufficient "safety clearance" before the -60°C certified for the Ex 97 switches is reached. This means that users, e.g. in the offshore oil and gas industry, can be certain that the new position switches will work reliably even in their truly extreme environments.

Due to their comprehensive range of actuators (plungers, roller levers, turning levers, push buttons) and compact dimensions, the Ex norm switches, available as snap action or slow action, are very versatile and can easily be integrated in an existing construction. Their protectively insulated plastic design also makes earthing and potential equalisation unnecessary.

With their unique set of features – in particular their enormous temperature range – they are suited to the position monitoring of flaps, valves, covers and other moving components, for example in plants within the oil and gas industry (onshore and offshore) or in shipbuilding and ports. Other application areas include handling systems on oil rigs, as well as position monitoring on crane booms. Safety applications, e.g. on maintenance flaps and guard doors, are a further possibility.

 #steute #PAuto #ex