Study on thermal flowmeters market.

Thermal flowmeters are riding the surge of gas flow measurement in both renewable and traditional natural gas applications, according to a new study from Flow Research, The World Market for Thermal Flowmeters, 3rd Edition. The study found that the worldwide thermal flowmeter market totaled $190 million in 2022 and projects that it will increase at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.7 percent per year through 2027. The study expects multipoint thermal meter revenues to grow faster than inline and singlepoint insertion types. It identifies landfill gas and biogas recovery as the fastest growing applications for thermal meters, with biomass fermentation and recovery growing second fastest.

“The future of gas measurement is extremely promising,” says Dr. Jesse Yoder¹, president of Flow Research. “Natural gas is no longer just a bridge to renewables, it is a renewable. As biogas and biogenic methane become more and more mainstream, new opportunities in gas flow measurement are multiplying, and thermal technology is well positioned to take advantage of that trend. Thermal meters aren’t accurate enough for custody transfer measurement, but there are plenty of other applications in the energy chain where they are cost-effective and useful.”

A Wide Range of Applications.
Thermal mass flowmeter technology designs vary more by industry and specific fluid applications than most other types of meters. Important selection factors include the type of gas to be measured, low/high flow conditions, sensor material, approvals, measuring accuracy, available diameters, and pressure and temperature tolerances. Thermal flowmeters, used almost entirely for air and gas flow measurement, are found in a wide range of industries, including oil & gas, chemical, power, and water & wastewater. Applications include flare stacks, nuclear plants, automobile testing lines, natural gas submetering, gasification plants, and compressed air systems. They are used in both traditional and renewable natural gas measurement, including biogas production and creating synthesis gas (syngas).

Frontiers in thermal flowmeter development.
Thermal flowmeters are cost-effective and versatile, respond quickly, and excel at measuring flow at low flowrates. They offer value, high turndown ratio, cost-effectiveness in large line sizes, flexibility for a wide range of gases, and high repeatability. One limitation of thermal flowmeters is that they are used almost entirely for gas flow measurement because of the slow response time involved in using the thermal principle on liquids. Thermal flowmeters need to be calibrated on the type of gas they are measuring, and they need to be calibrated periodically. Condensed moisture in the gas can reduce measurement accuracy, and changes in gas composition can affect measurement accuracy. These limitations are the focus of product development by many thermal suppliers.

A bright spot for thermal meters is multipoint meters, which traditionally have been used to measure flow in large ducts and stacks and are now being used in other applications and smaller line sizes. Greater accuracy can be derived from multiple measuring points. Other enhancements that also improve accuracy include flow conditioners, smart meters, and user-programmable meters that can accommodate changing gas requirements. Today’s thermal meters evolved from hot-wire anemometers The roots of thermal flowmeters go back to the hot-wire anemometers that were used for velocity profile and turbulence research in airflow measurement in the 1960s. Hot-wire anemometers are based on the principle that a heated wire cools as wind passes over it. The anemometer calculates the wind speed based on the heat loss of the wire. Hot wire anemometers have a quick response time but are too fragile for industrial environments.

Thermal flowmeters were first introduced for industrial applications in the 1970s after Dr. Jerome Kurz and Dr. John Olin developed an industrialized version of the hot-wire anemometer. Together they formed Sierra Instruments in 1973. Kurz formed Kurz Instruments in April 1977 and it became the first company to bring industrial thermal flowmeters to market. Fluid Components International (FCI), founded in 1964, developed flow switches to detect the flow of oil through pipes in the oil patch. In 1981, FCI created thermal flowmeters for measuring gas flow by adding more electronics to its switches. A second generation of suppliers appeared in the 1980s and 1990s.

Thermal flowmeters compute mass flow by measuring the effects of cooling on the flowstream, based on the principle that higher velocity flows result in greater cooling. Thermal meters introduce heat into the flowstream and measure how much heat dissipates using one heated sensor and a second sensor that measures the temperature of the flowstream.

This research details market shares and the worldwide supplier market size for thermal flowmeters in 2022 and forecasts market growth through 2027. It also outlines the history and development of thermal flowmeters and their principle of operation, analyzes thermal meter technology, profiles significant supplier companies, and suggests market strategies for suppliers. The study also draws on in-person interviews with Dr. Olin, Dr. Kurz, and Bob Deane and Mac McQueen from FCI. This is the third edition of this study, with previous editions published in 2009 and 2017.

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¹ Dr. Jesse Yoder, founder and president of Flow Research, has written more than 300 articles on flowmeters and other instrumentation for technical publications and has authored four books, including a two-volume set, Advances in Flowmeter Technology, published by CRC Press in 2022 and covering New-Technology Flowmeters and Conventional Flowmeters.

@flowresearch @KurzInstruments  #PAuto #Oil #Gas #FCI

Gas analysis in fuel and energy.

The 2nd FERIA Conference, the European Conference on Fuel and Energy Research and Its Applications, will take place at the University of Sheffield (GB) from 4th to 6th September 2023.

“This is an ideal sponsorship opportunity for us,” explains Signal Group MD, James Clements. “The majority of our gas analysers are used for the analysis of combustion emissions, and a good proportion of our order intake comes from the research and development sector, so the FERIA Conference will provide us with an opportunity to learn about the changing needs of our customers, and to show them the latest technological developments in gas analysis instrumentation, communications and software.”

The FERIA Conferences are organised by the Fuel and Energy Research Forum which brings together wide-ranging international interests in fuel and energy research, with a particular focus on biomass, waste and fossil fuels. In addition to a poster display, there will be three sessions running concurrently, offering delegates over 100 different presentations on themes such as carbon capture, hydrogen, ammonia and blended fuels, anaerobic digestion, gasification, pyrolysis of plastic waste, NOx emissions reduction, combustion efficiency and much more. 

“Almost all of the presentations will involve gas analysis,” comments James Clements, “So this will be a great opportunity for us to discuss the bespoke monitoring solutions that we are able to deliver.”

The Signal Group FERIA exhibition stand will feature the company’s latest gas analysers with detachable tablet screens, as well as the remote connectivity which is built into all of the company’s Series 4 instruments.

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@GasAnalysers @_Enviro_News #PAuto #Research

Fugitive gas emissions.

Oil and gas facilities typically have thousands of connections and fittings that require regular inspection for fugitive emissions. To reduce the time necessary to complete this task with traditional ‘sniffer’ technology, increasing numbers are turning to optical gas imaging (OGI) cameras from Teledyne FLIR.

The company’s innovative G-series OGI cameras give operatives the power to spot invisible gases as they escape, locating fugitive emissions faster and more reliably. Importantly, the latest models also allow quicker and better documentation of gas leaks, helping to avoid lost product, lost revenue, fines and safety hazards.

OGI is an advanced technology that involves the use of an infrared camera which matches spectral response to specific gases. Ideal for offshore platforms, LNG shipping terminals, oil refineries, NG wellheads and processing plants, FLIR G-series cooled-core OGI cameras make invisible gases visible, while also providing precise quantification.

FLIR Gx320, G620 and Gx620 cameras detect methane and hydrocarbon emissions from oil and gas production, transportation and processing facilities. In total, operatives can detect nearly 400 different gases, surveying large areas up to nine times faster than with traditional methods to catch leaks early and reduce emissions.

A recent case in point saw an operative at a customer’s facility successfully locate a small leak using a Teledyne FLIR OGI camera. This prevented escalation into a larger leak and potential downtime at an operating cost of around $1 million a day.

Based on Teledyne FLIR’s ethos of continuous improvement in line with customer feedback, the latest enhancements to the G-series range include the introduction of an LCD touchscreen, allowing users to draw an arrow or circle, leave comments. The company has also added Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities. Not only can operatives automatically upload and store saved images and videos to FLIR Ignite cloud software while in the field, they can also connect to a third-party app, allowing them to share captured content with colleagues around the world. This is a game-changing development for the oil and gas industry that not only helps customers become more efficient in finding and mitigating against fugitive emissions, but also in reporting them.

The value is clear to see. G-series OGI cameras from Teledyne FLIR empower everyday users in the oil and gas industry to spend more time prioritising leak repairs, and less time documenting them, while also getting a better understanding of the severity of the emission.

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@flir @mepaxIntPR #TandM #PAuto

The power of digital therapeutics.

Mouser Electronics premieres its latest installment of the Empowering Innovation Together (EIT) series unveiling the transformative potential of digital therapeutics. This examines the bridge between technology and medical devices to find how these parts and components can work together to provide a more personalized and accessible means of healthcare.

The medical industry is constantly evolving, and technology has become a crucial aspect in changing traditional methods. Digital therapeutics have emerged as an efficient approach that offers the potential to reach more patients, monitor conditions in real time, and reduce the financial barriers to accessing medical care. To support this shift, Mouser and its industry-leading supplier partners have collaborated to share their collective expertise and promote a more comprehensive method of personal health.

The latest series installment includes a brand-new podcast episode from The Tech Between Us, as well as a second episode from In Between The Tech, featuring esteemed guests from the Digital Medicine Society and Freespira. Each episode breaks down the meaning of digital therapeutics and the cutting-edge solutions it has the potential to provide. Through these informative episodes, listeners will gain a comprehensive understanding of the technical hardware and software aspects of engineering design, along with the current industry challenges facing this area.

Mouser's articles, case study and infographics offer a comprehensive exploration of the present market landscape while also presenting an optimistic outlook on future prospects, such as advancements in wearable technology, FDA approval procedures, and the diverse range of treatments it can facilitate. The range of content helps provide a solid foundation and raise awareness among designers about how to incorporate modern solutions into digital therapeutic devices.

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• This EIT installment is sponsored by Mouser's valued partners ams Osram, Microchip Technology, Bourns, Murata, NXP Semiconductors, Molex, and Renesas.

@MouserElecEU @Publitek  #Medical #Automation

Sustainability and emissions progress recognised.

Prestigious award honours Bosch’s best suppliers.

Emerson has received the 2023 Bosch Global Supplier Award, placing the company among a select global group of Bosch’s most valued suppliers helping drive innovation in pursuit of sustainability targets and their commitment to climate neutrality. Emerson earned the Global Supplier Award for Sustainability, recognizing the company’s exemplary commitment to climate neutrality and comprehensive efforts to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

LtoR: Bosch's Executive President Global Business Services, Joerg Mimmel; Bosch's Senior Vice President, Supply Chain Management, Dr. Arne Flemming; Emerson's Director Business Development for its Discrete Automation Group business, Andre Jungbauer, and Emerson's Global Key Account Manager for its Discrete Automation Group business Robert Brezni.

“Sustainable supply chains strengthen global prosperity and benefit society,” said Dr. Arne Flemming, Bosch’s head of supply chain management. “We especially honor our suppliers’ commitment to climate action with an award in the special ‘Sustainability’ category.”

Emerson is a longtime automation partner to Bosch. Emerson’s global factory automation solutions portfolio helps companies meet their carbon neutral milestones. Emerson recently announced it has achieved a 42% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions intensity from the 2018 baseline, surpassing its original 20% target six years ahead of schedule. Emerson has an A- score from the Carbon Disclosure Project and prioritizes advancing solutions that impact the environment: 70% of its revenue* is tied to sustainability-enabling technologies for customers.

“Emerson is deeply honored to receive the 2023 Bosch Global Supplier Award in the Sustainability category,” said Emerson Chief Sustainability Officer Mike Train. “Our efforts are having a measurable impact as we partner with customers to make the world healthier, safer, smarter and more sustainable. We will continue to take actions that tackle emissions across our global operations while supporting our customers in their decarbonization efforts and the broader communities we serve.”

Since 1987, Bosch has presented these awards every two years to its top suppliers in categories covering sustainability, purchasing of indirect materials and services, and raw materials and components. From its approximately 35,000 global suppliers, Bosch recognized Emerson and 45 other suppliers from 11 countries for the Global Supplier Awards on July 14, 2023, at the International Congress Center in Dresden (D).

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@EmersonExchange @EMR_Automation @Emerson_ @BoschGlobal #PAuto #Sustainability

Test to improve business performance.

Turn test performance into business performance.

A significant upgrade has been announced by NI to its flagship product LabVIEW. For nearly 40 years, LabVIEW has been the industry-standard product in the field of data acquisition, instrument control and automation. These latest improvements further enable engineers in their use of test insights and data to drive product and business performance. 

The latest improvements include:

• Zoom for Block Diagram
• Quick change for faster object creation
• Double-click to create control or indicator from a wire
• Visual improvements to Highlight Execution and option for execution speeds
• Faster re-building of applications and packed project libraries
• Virtual environment support for Python and LabVIEW users (announced Q1 2023) 

“It was exciting to see the appreciation from the audience at NI Connect when we demonstrated the upcoming, ease-of-use improvements with this new version of LabVIEW,” says Eric Reffett, Director of Product Management at NI. “Additions like Zoom and quick change are meaningful in a graphical development environment, and we are energized by both the engagement we got from the community during design, as well as the impact we know it will have.”

In addition, NI and JKI entered a long-term collaboration to focus on improving package-related workflows in LabVIEW. This included expanding VI Package Manager (VIPM) features, making it more robust and versatile for developers, as well as the addition of Dragon. This initial release is focused on using projects and packages, and the relationship will continue to improve the way developers share and re-use code.

“I’m thrilled to work with NI,” says Jim Kring, CEO of JKI. “JKI first created VIPM to help LabVIEW developers build and reuse LabVIEW code libraries, and it has since helped developers for over a decade. This collaboration with NI expands both the functionality available to all LabVIEW developers in VIPM, as well as the access developers have to resources available in VIPM.io, but this initiative is just the beginning.”

The new LabVIEW features have made it more user-friendly, efficient and powerful for helping test professionals and engineers focus on turning test performance into business performance.

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@niukie @NIglobal @jkisoftware @Publitek #TandM #Automation (National Instruments)

Co-operation in Digital services for water.

Digital solutions transform aging infrastructure and drive smart water investments across the full water cycle

Schneider Electric and SUEZ are joining forces to accelerate the deployment of digital solutions for energy efficiency, resource conservation, and the control of carbon impact of water cycle management systems.

An estimated two-thirds of the world's population will be living in water-stressed areas by 2025. SUEZ and Schneider Electric intend to help meet the challenges of water scarcity through the deployment of better performing and more resilient water cycle infrastructures.

Under an international agreement, Schneider Electric will integrate SUEZ’s digital AQUADVANCED® range of products into its water cycle management software, EcostruxureTM Water Advisor. Deployed for more than 10 years among public and private water management companies worldwide, AQUADVANCED® currently covers more than 1,500 networks and plants.

“By enabling real-time management of water and wastewater networks, the AQUADVANCED® platform is a market leading platform creating value for our customers throughout the entire life cycle of their infrastructures and services, from design to maintenance. Our partnership combines SUEZ unique domain know-how and leading digital solutions with Schneider Electric’s global integration capabilities to rollout AQUADVANCED® globally and speed up the market penetration,” stated Patricia Villoslada, Senior Vice President Digital Solutions at SUEZ.

“This agreement is one of the ways that Schneider Electric is delivering on its commitment to the sustainable development of the world, especially for the water sector, which is at the core of the sustainability concerns of most countries and industries,” said Alain Dedieu, President, Water and Wastewater at Schneider Electric. “Working together as one ecosystem is essential to meet the challenges of the water and energy nexus to ensure resilient water resources and energy efficient and decarbonized water infrastructure. Digital transformation that addresses the full water cycle is a key enabler to secure our journey to a more sustainable world.”

Targeted at network and plant operators, and water resources management teams, the combination of EcoStruxure Water Advisor and AQUADVANCED® is unique in the market. Equipped with innovative artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies, it integrates and processes thousands of data points in real time, enabling the monitoring and proactive management of water treatment infrastructure at all stages of the water cycle: detecting leaks and pollution, controlling the impact of extreme climate events, such as floods and droughts, securing supplies at best cost and optimizing water and wastewater treatment to meet regulatory compliance and environmental standards.

The new offer suite can reduce energy use by up to 30%, reduce non-revenue water by 15% and protect the quality of host environments by cutting in half the volumes of wastewater discharged. It can also provide up to 25% reduction in operational costs and the digital twin solution can provide up to 20% reduction in the total cost of ownership. The goal of SUEZ and Schneider Electric uniting their strengths is to accelerate the adoption of digital solutions with proven performance in the water industry.

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Water and Wastewater IoT Solutions with EcoStruxure at Padania Acque

@SchneiderElec @suez #PAuto #Water

Fully automated mobile device testing.

Anritsu has seamlessly integrated the new COMPRION SIMplifier hardware in its test setup to offer their customers a fully automated test solution for speeding up and easing GCF/PTCRB conformance and carrier acceptance testing.

The SIMplifier hardware has been integrated in its ME7834NR 5G NR Mobile Device Test Platform which is used by MNOs, chipset and mobile device manufacturers to perform network operator carrier acceptance and GCF/PTCRB conformance tests. For these type of tests, physical SIM cards had to be exchanged in order to make profile updates. 

“By integrating the SIMplifier in our test setup, we save time, simplify configuration changes and unlock total automation to enable our customers to run tests overnight without the need for a test engineer present. In order to contribute to the expansion of the 5G mobile market, we would like to future strengthen our collaborative relationship with COMPRION,” says Keiji Kameda, General Manager of Mobile Solutions Division at Anritsu Corporation.

The COMPRION SIMplifier, a compact and portable hardware device, aims to improve the efficiency of mobile device testing by eliminating the manual process of removing and reinserting the SIM card for profile updates. This is achieved by integrating a PC/SC card reader and a device connector. 

Udo Willenbrink, Product Manager at COMPRION, explains: “The device is specifically designed to optimise productivity and streamline various test procedures such as GCF/PTCRB protocol conformance testing, regression testing and development testing. In addition, it can be seamlessly integrated into existing test systems, offering versatility for a wide range of use cases. We are pleased that the COMPRION SIMplifier meets Anritsu's requirements for full test automation.”

@Anritsu @AnritsuEMEA @NapierPR #TandM

Intelligent IoT I/O Gateways.

The ADAM-6700 WISE-EdgeLink series has been announced by Advantech. Adam-6700 is an IoT I/O gateway with comprehensive functions including on-board I/O support and RS-485/Ethernet interface. It is an all-in-one device that not only integrates OT and IT data, but also saves cost, space, and engineering effort with the help of WISE-EdgeLink gateway software.

 

The Adam-6700 is quick to setup and configure and includes:

• Built-in IoT Gateway Software - WISE-EdgeLink.
• No-code WISE-EdgeLink software.
• Lightweight, cross-platform, edge-computing middleware.
• Hub for connectivity, protocol conversion, data logger, alarms and open API.
• Seamless integration to multiple cloud platforms and 3rd party systems.
• Runs on common OS such as Linux and Windows.

 

Using an Adam-6700 features a Multiple On-board IoT I/O Gateway allowing users to collect Assets and OT Data with wired and wireless connectivity

 

Compact Gateway for provides:

• Connectivity to cloud / database.
• Protocol conversion.
• Data logger.
• Alarming.
• Open API for programming.

 

The On-board I/O may be used for: 

• Analog inputs such as speed, humidity, temperature.
• Digital input for limit switches, push buttons.
• Digital output to provide light switches, alarms, buzzers.
• SSR relay output.

 

And the Adam-6700 features 2 x RS-485 / Ethernet Interfaces for connecting:

• ADAM I/O modules.
• Power meters.
• PLCs.

Customers can access the IoT Academy to discover the full potential of the Advantech ADAM-6700 Intelligent IoT I/O Gateways. 

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@AdvantechIA @Advantech_IIoT @proactivefleet #IIoT #PAuto

HMI windows protect.

Foremost Electronics has announced the availability of two new windows for protecting Human-Machine Interfaces (HMI) from enclosure specialist FIBOX.

The Protection Window (PW) series provide an easy to install, secure HMI access point for any enclosure or flat surface and offers high ingress and impact protection to IP66 and IK09. They can be used to protect control equipment or touch panels and feature integrated hinges and two double-bit locks providing system security while allowing easy access for operators. The Fibox PW series has the deepest working area and the largest viewing space available in the market.

The PW series are suitable for use for use with FIBOX enclosures or those from any other manufacturer. The secure low profile, continuous hinge design and sleek integrated quarter turn locks of the protection windows limits access when security and safety are needed. FIBOX PW series are available in two sizes of 340 x 300 x 90 mm and 450 x 400 x 90 mm and both fitted with double bit locks as standard.

Key features include:

• Low profile continuous hinge.
• Overlapping cover for strength and increased gasket protection.
• DB3 quarter turn lock (other key solutions on request).
• IP 66 IK 09 −40°C +120°C.
• Large viewing area.
• Transparent covers.
• Integrated PUR gasket.

Dave Martin, Business Development Director at Foremost Electronics, says, “FIBOX have a long history of providing secure enclosures suitable for all environments. With the growth of touch screens used in industrial control and automation a secure cover has become a necessity to protect them for harsh environments and make them tamper proof”.

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@4MostElectronic @FiboxEnclosures @proactivefleet #PAuto

The challenge of decentralisation.

Mouser Electronics has launched a new eBook in collaboration with Molex, a global electronics leader and connectivity innovator. The Power of Innovation and Data: Revolutionising Industrial, Healthcare, Automotive and Data Centres explores challenges relating to decentralisation of centres, data integrity, security and the enhancement of design flexibility to meet ever-changing market requirements.

Data is the currency of the Internet of Things (IoT), so winning technologies are those that process data most efficiently and effectively for market evolution. In the new eBook from Mouser and Molex, subject matter experts share insights into the migration of monolithic data centres to distributed and disaggregated architectures, and the transition to environments that offer flexibility in computing, storage, and networking options to best meet business needs, while paying only for what is used.

The eBook is packed with information on strategies, technologies and products. Actively engaged in industry standards boards, Molex provides readers with the expertise for data centre management with repeatable, scalable, high-quality solutions.

In addition, the eBook offers some of Molex’s latest innovative products, available from Mouser, like Molex’s EXTreme Ten60 hybrid power-and-signal connectors, providing up to 260A per linear inch, fast response times, and easy configuration for use in a variety of data communication and telecommunication equipment, as well as consumer electronics. Molex 5G mmWave RF flex-to-board connectors offer high signal integrity performance for high-speed (15 GHz) RF applications. The series is designed for use in 5G mobile and other communication devices. The Molex Multi-Hub 7-in-1 antenna features 2x LTE/5G full-band, 2x LTE/5G high-band, 2x Wi-Fi®, and 1x GNSS functionalities, making it suitable for advanced commercial vehicles and wireless applications.

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@MouserElecEU @MolexConnectors @Publitek #Electrics #Pauto #IoT

New I/O series for oil and gas fields.

Series extends site automation abilities, helping to increase the efficiency of oil and gas operations

The next evolution in smart remote I/O, the ABB XIO series is an extended range of all-in-one devices to monitor, control and manage oil and gas flow applications. The ABB XIO-08, ABB XIO-04 and ABB XIO-00 each operate as an extension to the ABB Remote Module Controller (RMC) family, providing enhanced I/O capacity and increasing overall wellhead operational efficiency. The series offers up to eight channels for customers to choose the XIO that meets their site needs.

ABB flow computers and RTUs are used to monitor, measure and control many upstream oil and gas applications to ensure safe and efficient operations. The solution enables users to monitor, measure, and control flows from anywhere, anytime.

This XIO extension means that site configuration requirements can be met whatever the size of the oil or gas field. The need for physical on-site presence is reduced due to the remote control and monitoring of I/O points and serial devices, putting safety first and reducing costs. As well as extending ABB’s RMC capabilities, the XIO is compatible with a wide range of controllers across the market, emphasizing ABB’s commitment to open architecture across all areas of industrial automation.

Equipment can be added without significant infrastructure modifications, allowing easy expansion of I/O points and connection of serial devices. Up to 22 hot pluggable I/O modules can be added or replaced without power interruption, minimizing downtime.

The XIO series offers several connectivity options, new networking features (up to four independent networks are supported), and the possibility to use the XIO’s Wi-Fi as a network or bridge with one of the Ethernet ports. Reliable and efficient data transfer is made easy by connecting the XIO to the RMC over Ethernet. Four ethernet points allow for different network configurations. It also features control and measurement applications for specific needs of remote locations.

As a specific integration feature, ABB’s RMC discovers a XIO device on the network, learns its configuration, becoming a consumer of the XIO’s application data without the need to maintain a list of connected devices.

Increasing digitalization in the oil and gas industry means that reliable connectivity is required for successful operations. Wellheads often must achieve extended connectivity rapidly to meet expansion opportunities. ABB’s XIO provides immediate connectivity expansion, enhancing production and reducing costs associated with traditional equipment upgrades. It integrates islands of automation and enables remote data connection for real-time analytics across the site and enterprise.

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@ABBRobotics @ABBgroupnews @ABBMeasurement @abb_automation @NapierPR #PAuto #Robotics #Manufacturing

Leadership change ensures growth continues.

Jerry Duque is now General Manager of the HIMA business in North America. He had already assumed the role of legal representative there last year. Together with the entire HIMA Americas team, Duque will continue to drive business growth in North America.

Jerry Duque

He succeeds Frits Luikenaar, who retired in December 2022. With this appointment, the provider of safety-related automation solutions is pursuing its strategy of strengthening customer proximity in key markets and driving the expansion of its sales and service presence.

"North America is an important market for us. Jerry and his team bring many years of experience in sales, engineering and service as well as in project execution – excellent prerequisites for creating added value for our customers in North America," explains Jörg de la Motte, CEO of HIMA. 

"HIMA has a significant installed base in North America and enjoys a high reputation for its modern technologies. I look forward to playing an active role in shaping HIMA's growth trajectory," says Jerry Duque.

As an electrical engineer and MBA with experience in the oil and gas industry, Jerry Duque started his career at HIMA in 2014 and has held various positions as Sales Director in different regions – since 2021 as Sales Director for the USA and Canada. In addition to his duties as General Manager for HIMA Americas, Jerry Duque will continue to assume the duties of Sales Director for the USA and Canada.

HIMA continues to expand its team and partnerships with leading suppliers in the field of functional safety in the region. "We are looking for further partnerships to further accelerate our growth and advance the digitalization of functional safety with added value," he explains. 

The company also plans to open new regional offices in the eastern United States. In addition to the traditional markets of the oil and gas industry, refineries, chemicals and petrochemicals, and intends to develop its rail business in North America.

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#HIMA #PAuto #NorthAmerica

Testing submarine cables.

The Coherent OTDR¹ MW90010B has been introduced by Anritsu, to locate faults in submarine cables. MW90010B can evaluate up to 20,000 km and has an easily selectable wavelength that covers the full C-band². It is more portable with a 40% weight reduction for the same product size as the previous model. The instrument helps customers to improve the quality of submarine cable communications and continues to support test solutions to meet market needs.

Development background.
The volume of communications traffic is increasing due to the spread of 5G mobile and cloud services. In addition, the worldwide submarine cable network carries most data communications and is expected to expand with future technological innovations.

Nowadays, major IT vendors have not only invested in new installation projects but are increasingly installing landing stations.³

and cables to directly synchronize their data centers at high speed and low latency. As a result, the submarine cable networks become more complex and quality assurance for their installation and maintenance also become more important. To meet this market demand, Anritsu is improving the test solution.

Product outline.
The Coherent OTDR MW90010B uses the coherent (optical heterodyne) detection method and has a built-in tunable wavelength light source. Its selectable wavelength feature facilitates the measurement of all cable lines from each landing station and helps assure the quality of submarine cables.

Key features.
• Locate faults in submarine cables up to 20,000 km
- Supports faulty detection up to 12,000 km with repeaters installed at 80 km or wider intervals.
- Extends the detection distance up to 20,000km with the MW90010B-003 option.
• Wider wavelength range (1527.60 to 1567.13 nm, ITU-T grid 50GHz step)
- Covers the full C-Band measurement.
- Built-in tunable light source with ±0.05 nm wavelength accuracy.
• Reduced weight for better portability
- Weighing less than 10kg and compact size for portability (40% weight saving for same size as the previous model).
- Easy portability at landing station, submarine cable laying vessels and other maintenance sites.

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¹Coherent OTDR: The OTDR (Optical Time Domain Reflectometer) uses the coherent (optical heterodyne) detection method. Ideal for measuring the characteristics of optical fibers in submarine cables with optical repeater amplifiers.
² C-band: Abbreviation for Conventional band; wavelength band with the lowest fiber loss. Used for Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM) used in submarine cables.
³ Landing station: Dedicated facility for bringing submarine cables onto land and functioning as a relay point to the land network.

@Anritsu @AnritsuEMEA @NapierPR #TandM

Sensor taking proactive strides into edge AI.

Innodisk has launched a new industrial air sensor module solution with its subsidiary, Sysinno, featuring accurate sensing, easy implementation, and minimal computing power.

The modules offer real-time monitoring of temperature, humidity, and six air quality index detection, including particulate matter (PM2.5, PM10), carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO₂), formaldehyde (HCHO), total volatile organic compounds (TVOC), ozone (O₃) and more. With its unique algorithm and adoption of original sensor heads from world-leading brands, the modules ensure accurate and reliable sensing values.

The modules can easily integrate with various systems, such as industrial personal computers (IPC), PCs, edge servers, and embedded systems through I2C interface or USB Sensor Carrier board. At the same time, the module’s design guarantees minimal computing power consumption and prevents excessive heating during operation. Furthermore, with Innodisk’s top-notch quality of in-house manufacturing process and adherence strictly to industrial standards, the modules have passed numerous third-party accuracy tests, which has made the modules surpass other OEM air sensor devices available in the market and can be trusted to implement into diverse fields.

The modules can integrate into smart poles, EV charging stations, and kiosks, which adds significant value to these devices in the rapid expansion of smart cities. Installing the modules in facilities in hospitals and healthcare centers enhances air and service quality. In the smart factory, businesses can implement the modules to optimize humidity and air quality levels and safeguard workers' well-being.

Innodisk's innovative air sensor modules perfectly combine its expertise in embedded applications and Sysinno's specialization in air detection, with over a decade of experience and leading participation in more than 500 critical global projects. It offers a comprehensive and reliable solution to improve air quality and contribute to a healthier and more sustainable future.

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@Innodisk_Corp  @mepaxIntPR #PAuto #IIoT #AI

Valves for electrolysers.

GSR Ventiltechnik has developed a new valve series for the hydrogen sector. The direct-pressure controlled valves are characterized by a long service life, which is achieved by the unique design of the stem seal. It enables 35% more switching cycles than comparable competitive products.

The generation of electricity from wind and solar power plants will be massively expanded in the coming years. However, since these forms of electricity generation are subject to fluctuations due to the time of day and weather conditions, and the electricity generated cannot be stored easily, new concepts are still needed here. The production of green hydrogen from the surplus electricity of renewable energy plants could be the solution. Hydrogen can be temporarily stored, transported and used in gas grids, or converted back into electricity in gas turbines.

This green hydrogen is produced by splitting water (H₂O) into hydrogen (H₂) and oxygen (O₂) using electrolysers and renewable electricity. The new externally controlled valves from GSR control the processes surrounding electrolysis.

A version for use in both the hydrogen and oxygen processes will soon be available. The body materials have been specially qualified for use with H₂ or O₂. The hydrogen version has reliable, tested sealing elements, while these are even BAM-certified for the oxygen version.

The valves are optimally designed for the prevailing pressure and temperature ranges, have excellent flow characteristics, and feature sophisticated materials that ensure a long service life.

They have high tightness (10-6 mbar l/s) and are ATEX certified. SIL2 acceptance is planned.

@PresseBox #gsrvalves #PAuto

Wireless datalogger for remote access applications.

The OPTIBRIDGE 3880 IIoT data logger for remote data services, acquisition and evaluation has been introduced by Krohne. It is a fully autonomous, battery or mains powered wireless communication system for remote access to measurement data, aimed at the water & wastewater industry.

Using mobile communication via 2G, 3G and 4G, OPTIBRIDGE 3880 offers a wide range of remote data management options – from simple data logging to internet connectivity and storage for maintenance, process visualisation and data evaluation. It is thus also designed for advanced applications with IIoT (Industrial Internet of Things) requirements, offering flexible and modular solutions for data acquisition and analysis in smart networks.

Using integration software supplied by KROHNE (OPTIBRIDGE 3880 Connector), data can also be integrated into any SCADA or other software system by using industry standard protocols like e.g. OPC UA, CSV, etc. The customer has full control over their data as it is hosted on their own local server and send with end-to-end encryption. This unit is the perfect companion for the battery-powered water meter WATERFLUX 3070: the “OPTIBRIDGE 3880 Setup” app for iOS & Android for on-site commissioning and configuration via Bluetooth features configuration templates for Basic IO & Modbus of the water meter. The system is also ideal for installation in flood-prone areas like manholes as it comes in a rugged IP68 rated polycarbonate housing with an integrated battery offering 6 years’ operating time in typical applications.

Typical applications include data logging and transfer of flow, pressure and temperature measurement values from water abstraction wells or water transportation pipelines, wireless communication for water meters in installation areas without power supply, and remote flow monitoring and process control in district metering applications.

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• Krohne products are marketed in Ireland through DWN Instrumentation.

@krohnegroup @KROHNE_USA #PAuto #DWN #PAuto #Water #Wastewater

Automation parts growth in APAC.

Automation parts supplier EU Automation is expanding its operations in APAC and the Far East, following a rapid growth in demand for its services in the region. The company specialises in supplying rare, reconditioned and unused parts to companies worldwide. It has experienced an impressive 1450% growth in turnover at its regional hub in Singapore in the last five years, prompting investment in larger premises and a strengthening of its global leadership team.

“Our customers’ best interests are always our first priority,” comments Darren Halford, Managing Director of EU Automation. “The investment in new premises, coupled with two strategic appointments, marks a new phase in our business’s mission to supply the manufacturing world with industry-leading parts and service at speed. It highlights EU Automation’s continuing commitment to global manufacturing and supports our mission to help customers avoid unnecessary downtime and save millions in lost revenue.”

Two strategic appointments form part of this new phase in EU Automation’s evolution. John Young will soon return to Britain, having accepted a promotion to Group Sales Director. He says: “Although it is with a heavy heart that I am leaving the Singapore branch after an incredible five and a half years together, I know the team will continue to thrive. I am looking forward to the challenge of a new role and am thrilled to return to the UK as Group Sales Director.” Neil Ballinger has accepted the role of Head of Global Operations. Based in the Britain, Neil has worked at EU Automation for over nine years and brings a wealth of experience, knowledge and expertise to his new role. Neil says: “I am honoured to be leading our global operations during an exciting phase in the company’s development. The people who work within our global operations teams are vital to our continued success and our ability to reliably serve some of the largest manufacturers around the world.”

EU Automation currently supports more than 50,000 customers worldwide and sources over two million parts annually. Singapore is a strategic hub for the company, facilitating parts distribution into Asia Pacific, the Far East, and other areas of the world. The growth in demand for its services in the region is driven in part by global trends such as sustainability and the circular economy, but it is also the result of hard work from their dedicated Singapore team, who have built trusted relationships with multiple customers under the leadership of John Young.

As General Manager of the Singapore APAC office for the last five and a half years, John has overseen rapid business growth and expanded the team by 450%. As a result, EU Automation is now investing in larger premises at the Far East Finance Building in Singapore.

The new accommodation will enable the company to employ more account managers and native language speakers to serve the wider APAC region and deal with growing demand. The move will therefore ensure that EU Automation continues to provide the best, most efficient, service to their customers, by maintaining an agile business that can respond quickly to changing industry conditions.

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• The Singapore APAC office has relocated to 14 Robinson Road, #06-01 Far East Finance Building, Singapore, 048545

@euautomation @Publitek #PAuto #Automation

Display on the skids!

Danfoss Power Solutions is supplying its DM700 display for use on the third-generation Elise 900 skid steer loader manufactured by FIRSTGREEN Industries (previously known as Kovaco Electric). The all-electric machine takes advantage of the display’s 7-inch screen, excellent sunlight viewability, and rugged IP66/IP67 ingress protection ratings, providing the ideal combination of features for this demanding application.

Lukáš Rameš, chief operating officer, FIRSTGREEN Industries, said: “When we introduced the display, every customer was happy with it. Now we are working on retrofitting older machines so they can use the display. We already have some orders for the retrofit kits, which can rebuild generation 2 machines into gen 3.”

During the design phase of the third-generation Elise 900, FIRSTGREEN Industries customers requested a hard-mounted display instead of the previous control by mobile phone. Mobile phones are not particularly robust, and their small screens and poor readability in direct sunlight make operator ease of use a challenge. In contrast, a robust embedded display can help improve productivity and support better operator safety.

With support from Technotrade, FIRSTGREEN Industries’ trusted technology advisor and a Danfoss Power Solutions Premier Partner, the DM700 emerged as the display of choice.

Situated in the top right corner of the Elise 900 cab, the Danfoss DM700 display is connected to the skid steer’s CAN bus system, providing reliable, rapid communication and higher data throughput – a considerable advance in comparison with the phone’s Bluetooth connection. Furthermore, the display overcomes the distractions of using a personal device for machine operation, along with problems that emerge if the phone is misplaced or not charged. The large screen area of the DM700 also provides better visibility of important machine information for the operator.

Using the display, users can set three profiles customized to the needs of various operators or working conditions, including travel speeds and hydraulic settings. Productivity is further enhanced through the DM700’s ability to display error messages and diagnostics, minimizing machine downtime.

The control joysticks can also be customized. In comparison with the analog joysticks of previous generation Elise 900 models, Danfoss JS1-H CAN joysticks offer greater accuracy and enable the adjustment of parameters. The result is a more intuitive control system customized to operator preferences. Moreover, the joysticks are more reliable and simpler to install, service, and replace as there are only four wires instead of the 25 required with the previous analog devices.

Safer operation is a further benefit of the display. In addition to prompting the operator to shut the door and fasten the seat belt to start the machine, the DM700 can help avoid rollovers by showing a real-time overview of the skid steer’s roll and pitch angles.

Although the DM700 display is an option on the third-generation Elise 900, FIRSTGREEN Industries reports that all purchasers to date have selected the hard-mounted display and anticipates that 95% of long-term sales will include it.

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@DanfossPower @Danfoss @NapierPR #Automation #PAuto

Integrated manifold for respiratory therapy devices.

The ASCO Series 588 manifold reduces manufacturer engineering and assembly time, improves energy efficiency, product lifespan and reliability of devices.

The ASCO™ Series 588 Stationary Oxygen Concentrator Manifold has been announced by Emerson. This is the healthcare industry’s first turnkey manifold solution designed to optimize respiratory therapy device designs and accelerate product speed to market. Oxygen concentrators must quickly reach patients who rely on them, so it’s critical that they are readily available and operate reliably. The Series 588 manifold is specially designed to simplify device engineering and assembly and improve device energy efficiency, lifespan and reliability.

Without an integrated manifold, manufacturers must mount valves individually into the fluidic path of oxygen concentrators and attach dedicated tubing to each orifice. Alternatively, the small, lightweight architecture of the Series 588 manifold easily integrates into the fluidic path of oxygen concentrators, significantly reducing engineering and assembly time for medical equipment manufacturers. The Series 588 features two robust general service valves that precisely control the flow of air between the compressor and the sieves. The manifold fastens easily into the fluidic path, and a barbed port design makes it simple to connect tubing.

“Oxygen concentrators are essential to the health and well-being of patients with chronic respiratory disorders, so it is critical they are readily available for therapy. However, one of the most important aspects of these devices is an intelligently designed fluidic path, and that takes time,” said Thomas Beck, product marketing manager for analytical and medical at Emerson. “With the ASCO Series 588 Manifold, our fluidic path experts have designed a low-power, robust solution that can save medical manufacturers time and lifetime costs. Manufacturers can quickly and simply install the integrated manifold by connecting just a few tubes.”

In addition to simplifying design and assembly, the Series 588 can help improve device energy efficiency and reliability while lengthening product life. The manifold’s compact footprint can enable smaller device designs without sacrificing performance. The valves’ low power demand can extend device battery life and time between charges, which can set a manufacturer’s product apart from competitor offerings. And the high reliability of the valves can lengthen the overall lifespan of the oxygen concentrator and minimize manufacturer lifetime costs.

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@EMR_Automation @Emerson_News @EmersonExchange @ASCOValve @mepaxIntPR #PAuto #Medical

Ageing more slowly in space?

Microscopy application in mini-space satellite to study human cells.

The importance of space exploration is increasing, and more and more astronauts are cavorting in space. But what effects does weightlessness have on the ageing of the human body? How do certain cells develop under milligravity and microgravity conditions, such as those found on small moons and asteroids? The Swiss Artificial Gravity Experiment (SAGE) is dedicated to this research task. A team of students from various Swiss universities (Academic Space Initiative Switzerland ARIS) wants to investigate how the ageing process in humans changes in space and how cellular senescence influences the development of ageing and age-related disorders. 

The young researchers are currently designing the construction of a satellite platform for a corresponding biological experiment, which must meet extreme requirements. The fully automated system will serve as a long-lasting test field under the required space conditions and act as a centrifuge for the human cell lines to be studied. At the heart of this CubeSat solution is a fluorescence microscope equipped with a microfluidic chip and a high-resolution USB3 camera from IDS uEye XLE family.

Camera - uEye XLE USB3 Vision - consistently cost-optimised.
• Interface: USB 3
• Model: U3-38J1XLE-C-HQ
• Sensor type: CMOS Colour
• Manufacturer: Sony
• Frame rate: 25.1 fps
• Resolution: 3864 x 2176 px
• Shutter: Rolling-Shutter
• Optical class: 1/3"
• Resolution: 8.41 MPixel
• Dimensions: 36.0 x 36.0 x 21.0 mm
• Weight: 13 g
• Connector: USB Type-C

Client

ARIS brings together studentsfrom Swiss universities who are passionate about space exploration. Formed around ETH Zurich, the members address technical challenges by combining theory and practice. Not only are rockets being built, but with SAGE (Swiss Artificial Gravity Experiment) their first 3U-CubeSat satellite is also being developed.

In the human body, ageing processes take place at the cellular level, which are referred to as senescence. This is a phenomenon where cells stop dividing and secrete inflammatory factors. 

"Building on research by NASA and many other groups around the world, there is reason to believe that cells age more slowly in microgravity than on Earth. This effect can be measured by certain proteins and mRNA, which are emitted during cell ageing. Messenger RNAs (mRNAs) have emerged as essential factors contributing to or preventing cellular senescence. With a fluorescent marker, this mRNA can be labelled and, when irradiated with the right light, it is made to glow. The complete experiment is carried out over a period of two months in a volume of only ten cubic centimeters. To measure and analyse the necessary processes under these conditions, we need a particularly reliable and compact fluorescence microscope," explains SAGE Payload Engineer Jonas Schlör.

For the laboratory tests, a U3-38J1XLE-C-HQ was used in the microscope. The camera captures fluorescent mRNA from human cells placed on a microfluidic chip.

Fluorescence microscope with
USB3 uEye XLE board level camera from IDS.

Microfluidic chips enable the miniaturisation and integration of complex laboratory functionalities on a single chip. This saves space and reduces the need for samples. Microfluidic chips contain engraved or shaped microchannels through which the fluid to be analysed can flow.

The use of microfluidic channels allows samples in very small volumes. Due to the high resolution of the camera with the rolling shutter sensor IMX415 from Sony, individual cells can be distinguished from each other. The high pixel density of the sensor in particular makes it possible to display individual cells with a diameter of only 15 μm. A blue LED energizes the cells in a microfliodic chip. These emit green light of varying intensity depending on the rate of senescence. Cells with a higher senescence rate emit more fluorescent proteins and are therefore brighter. An optical filter allows only the green light from the cells to pass through the lens onto the camera. This allows not only the general senescence rate of the cells to be determined, but also the specific number of living cells.

Microscope scheme for cell research with
uEye XLE camera, microfliodic chip & LED

"The data obtained is thus very meaningful and scientifically relevant, as comparable research has not been conducted in this way before," explains Jonas Schlör. In addition, a complex apparatus, which is otherwise necessary for fluorescence microscopes, can be dispensed with and a lot of space can be saved. "The camera also features numerous software-related setting options, such as exposure times or colour filters, which means that a high degree of flexibility can be maintained throughout the design process." It also has to meet the tough demands of the external environment. These include the rocket launch with its very intense vibrations and, of course, the conditions in orbit under vacuum and cosmic radiation.

With 8.41 MPixels and 4K resolution, the U3-38J1XLE Rev.1.1 is particularly suitable for this type of visualisation task. With the 2x2 binning feature, it is possible, if necessary, to reduce the amount of data to be transmitted by a factor of four and thus increase both the light sensitivity and the frame rate. Sony's IMX415 rolling shutter sensor delivers high-resolution data for detailed image analysis. Due to its extremely space-saving design, the IDS camera can be optimally integrated into this embedded application. The camera is controlled by a microcontroller, which processes and compresses the data while still on the satellite, after which it is to be sent to Earth. 

The software as well as the control algorithms are developed and tested by the students of the Swiss Academic Space Initiative themselves. The demands on the system or the CubeSat are high: The latter must both provide the attachment points for the subsystems and components and ensure the structural stability of the satellite - from insertion into its launch vehicle to the end of its service life. All components must withstand the physical stresses generated by the launch vehicle during ascent and later the radiation and temperature fluctuations in space, while being as light as possible. The satellite prototype has already delivered first promising results.

Outlook.
The experiment is designed to run for 3 years. Based on the research results, various scenarios are conceivable. First, for example, the scientists would like to find out whether certain therapies could improve the astronauts' well-being. But senescent cells can also be drivers of various diseases that make life difficult for people, especially in old age - such as dementia, arteriosclerosis, diabetes and arthritis. In addition, they are suspected of contributing to tumour progression. According to one study, SARS-CoV-2 may also be a trigger for senescence - a possible explanation for Long Covid's persistent symptoms.

The Swiss Artificial Gravity Experiment could provide interesting approaches for possible therapies. More and more IDS cameras are thus making a contribution to health promotion worldwide. "A field of application that is close to our hearts," emphasises IDS founder and owner Jürgen Hartmann.

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• See also: Tiny and perfect for embedded and volume projects. (13.7/2023)

@IDS_Imaging @ArisSpaceCh @mepaxIntPR #PAuto #Medical #Research