Thursday 28 November 2019

Seven millionth product!

HMS Networks (HMS) has shipped its seven millionth Anybus product to IAI Corporation (IAI). | IAI uses Anybus embedded technology from HMS to connect their robot and motion controllers to various industrial networks in factories around the world. IAI and HMS have been working together successfully for almost 20 years, and during that time IAI has been using several different generations of embedded Anybus products.
From left to right: Christian Berghdahl, Product Marketing Manager, Anybus, HMS Networks,  Bartek S. Candell, General Manager - MU Asia, HMS Networks, Toshihisa Tsukuda , Manager Software Section II and Kazunobu Maruyama,  Specialist Software Section I Development Dept. at IAI 
"We are very excited about having delivered the 7 millionth Anybus product to IAI” says Bartek Stelmasiak Candell, General Manager for Market Unit Asia at HMS Networks, and continues “The Anybus embedded concept supports all the major fieldbuses and industrial Ethernet networks that IAI requires for their robot and motion controllers, and this enables them to connect to the various control systems used by their customers in automation technology".


The first Anybus module was developed in 1994. The number of fieldbuses increased rapidly and the Anybus embedded concept allowed device manufacturers to connect to any industrial network in an easy way. Over the last decade, the evolution of industrial networks has continued, and many industrial Ethernet protocols with high performance have been introduced. With full fieldbus and industrial Ethernet connectivity, IT-features and solutions for functional safety and security, the Anybus technology has always been in the forefront, now also covering wireless technologies. Today, seven million Anybus products are deployed in the field. The multi-network connectivity offered by the Anybus concept is still the key benefit to the user.
"When we started the development using Anybus products for the first time 18 years ago it was I that developed application software. I remember that HMS gave us prompt and kind support when we made lots of questions during the development. One of the biggest advantages to use HMS products is the excellent service and support that HMS provides thanks to their Japanese operations. That makes HMS differentiated. Still today we use Anybus modules and the support that HMS gives us remains unchanged" says Mr. Tsukuda, Software Development Manager at IAI Corporation.

“The first million Anybus modules took us more than 10 years to deliver and now we have gone from 5 million to 7 million in only 2 years which is fantastic,” says Staffan Dahlström, CEO at HMS Networks, and continues. “We are very happy about the success of Anybus and are proud about our ability to ensure secure and smart communication in thousands of factories all around the world, enabling full equipment and resource control for our customers and their end user customers”.

#PAuto @hmsnetworks @HMSAnybus @mepaxIntPR #Japan

Ex command devices.

With the new variants in its Ex BF 80 product series, the .steute business unit Extreme is not targeting the mass market of human-machine interface users. There is, namely, an essential difference between these new devices and conventional products: they have been developed especially for use in explosive environments and in temperatures ranging from -60°C to +65°C.

The new series comes in three different housing sizes, to incorporate one, two or three elements. Users can choose between various actuators, signal lamps and key switches, including emergency stop buttons and mushroom buttons. All models are suitable for mounting on e.g. machine enclosures, walls or panels – also and especially in adverse environments involving high levels of wear and tear. They meet protection class IP 66 and have been developed especially for all manner of "Extreme" applications.

Following the wishes of some of our customers, steute has now extended its compatible temperature range even further. This has been facilitated through the re-design of all actuators. Hardly noticeable to the eye, the new design includes features such as sealings which are suitable for even lower temperatures.

The extended temperature range down to -60°C is included in the new ATEX/IECEx approval. It opens up additional options for the steute Ex command devices, e.g. applications in shipbuilding, offshore technology and the oil and gas industry. The subzero range of steute Extreme switching devices is thus steadily growing.

#PAuto #steute @mepaxIntPR

Wednesday 27 November 2019

Motor purge system.

Pepperl+Fuchs has introduced the Bebco EPS® purge and pressurisation system designed specifically for use with large motors or large enclosures in Zone 1 hazardous areas. The 6100 series purge and pressurisation system can purge an enclosure over 450 cubic feet (12.2 cubic meters), making it the largest purging system available from Pepperl+Fuchs. The 6100 series system is perfect for applications in the chemical/petrochemical and oil and gas industries.

The 6100 series is a fully automatic system that does not require an operator to initiate purging or pressurization. It offers optional temperature sensors that can be mounted around the motor for alarm notification or cooling. Additionally, there is automatic pressure compensation for excess leakage from the motor.

The 6100 system consists of a control unit, vent, low pressure sensor, and optional temperature sensors. The control unit allows users to configure the system for size of motor, temperature switch points, pressure switch points for leakage compensation and shutoff pressure, extra output for control or alarm, two selectable intrinsically safe inputs for various actions, and up to three temperature sensor inputs that can monitor various points within the motor housing. The intrinsically safe user-interface can also be mounted in a separate enclosure near an operator for quick access and easy system monitoring.

6100 series motor purge and pressurization system features:
• Certified for ATEX and IECEx Zone 1
• Fully automatic
• Maximum flow rate of 14,000 l/min
• Intrinsically safe user-interface for system programming and monitoring
• Control unit monitors system operation and controls enclosure power
• Auxiliary contact outputs for alarm or control
• Multiple temperature inputs for monitoring and control
• Automatic pressure compensation for excess leakage from motor

The intrinsically safe pressure sensor provides an accurate enclosure pressure reading for safe operation within the hazardous area. The pressure sensor—which can measure internal pressure from 0 to 25 mbar—can be remotely located at the motor’s low pressure section for correct, safe motor pressure readings.

The EPV-6100 vent can be ordered to detect various flows for purging and then feedback the signal to the 6100 series control unit to start the purge timer. There are five flow rates to choose from (14,000 l/min maximum) to meet any application requirement in large motors or enclosures.

#PAuto @PepperlFuchs @mepaxIntPR

Scan ring wins!

Advantech's LEO-W wearable barcode scanner ring was honored with a 2020 Taiwan Excellence award. This prestigious award is considered one of the highest honors in Taiwan’s industry. Advantech’s LEO-W wearable barcode scanner ring was selected by the jury for “impressively demonstrating superior innovation”.

Universal Design with Optimized Scan Button Enables Hands-Free Scanning
The LEO-W wearable barcode scanner ring is an ultra-compact Bluetooth barcode scanner that is worn on a finger for hands-free scanning. Designed to streamline workflows for warehouse, logistics, retail, and inventory management applications, LEO-W is capable of scanning barcodes printed on paper labels or displayed digitally. Unlike traditional barcode scanners with a capacitive touch pad, LEO-W features an optimized physical scan button for superior control and power savings. The LEO-W barcode scanner is available with five ring strap sizes and can be worn on either the left or right hand for maximum flexibility and comfort. Moreover, LEO-W features a magnetic connector for easy battery recharging, thereby eliminating issues related to cable bending.

Key Features
+ Wearable ergonomic design with optimized scan button enables hands-free scanning
+ Universal design for the left/right hand with flexible ring sizes
+ Bluetooth connectivity ensures easy integration and reduced power consumption
+ Compact, lightweight (33g) design for convenient deployment
+ IP54 rating and 1-m drop protection ensures reliability for industrial applications
+ Magnetic connector enables easy battery recharging
Compact Yet Durable Solution Ensures Reliability for Industrial Applications
To ensure reliable operation in harsh industrial environments, LEO-W features a wide operating temperature range (-20 ~ 50 °C/-4 ~ 122 °F), IP54 rating for protection from water and dust, and can withstand drops of up to 1 meter. The compact, lightweight (33 g) design allows LEO-W to be deployed for a wide range of applications. For long-duration use typical of shift work, the built-in battery supports up to 8 hours operation and can be recharged within 1.5 hours. Overall, LEO-W provides a great-value mobile data collection solution with the durability to withstand rough handling in industrial environments.

Built-In Bluetooth Connectivity Facilitates Easy Integration
Equipped with Bluetooth communication technology, the LEO-W barcode scanner ring can be easily paired with a wide range of devices for real-time data collection. Moreover, the scanner can operate at distances of up to 10 m (33 ft) from the host system, increasing worker mobility and overall efficiency.

By reducing workflow interruptions and data-entry errors, the LEO-W barcode scanner ring allows managers to streamline operations and increase productivity.

#PAuto @iAutomation_EU @mepaxIntPR

Advanced connectivity with maximum security.

Ixxat SG-gateways enable data exchange between IEC61850 or IEC60870-5-104 based energy networks and common fieldbus and Industrial Ethernet systems. HMS Networks now introduces new functions, including Mediabreaker functionality and support for IEC60870-5-101, DNP3, OPC-UA and MQTT. The user management has also been improved and a version with Ethernet switch is available.
The energy sector is developing fast, driven by the transformation to renewable energies, electromobility and the move from pure energy consumers to prosumers (producer and consumer). The changes result in high demands on communication within the energy distribution networks. Highly flexible and secure solutions are required to adapt the existing infrastructure to the new conditions, including mitigation of the increasing risk of cyber-attacks. The new, extended Ixxat® SG-gateways from HMS meet both the need for more flexibility and for more security.

Media break in line with TSO security requirements
Ixxat SG-gateways already support secure data transmission via VPN and the IEC60870-5-104 protocol. However, according to the TSO (Transmission System Operators) specifications, the transmission medium must also be changed to add a further security layer and thus prevent malicious code from being passed on to the terminal device. The integration of the IEC60870-5-101 protocol enables the user to connect his 101-compatible devices to the control rooms of the respective operators in accordance with the TSO specifications. Ixxat SG-gateways enable the easy "break" between Ethernet-based (IEC60870-5-104) and serial (IEC60870-5-101) communication. With only one Ethernet port and one serial interface, the specific MediaBreaker version is optimally adapted to this application.

Due to the media break integration, the IEC60870-5-101 protocol is now also available via the serial interface. This enables connection of old devices to modern control rooms and controllers without having to replace them by new ones.

Ready for the future with OPC-UA and MQTT

Ixxat SG-gateways now also offer functions for data aggregation and simple controlling tasks. Thanks to the new support for the popular OPC-UA and MQTT standards, SG-gateways can be used to feed data from various energy and industrial networks to established services from Microsoft, Google and other providers, where the data can be evaluated and reacted upon via a secure bidirectional connection. OPC-UA and MQTT are now available for all SG-gateway versions at no extra cost.

Integrated Ethernet switch

With the new SG-gateway switch version, it is possible to connect up to 4 devices directly to a second Ethernet port and to distribute the communication (i.e. energy protocols, OPC-UA, MQTT or Modbus-TCP) in a flexible way over two separate networks. This eliminates the need for external switches.

Prepared for easy worldwide use

The SG-gateways now also support the DNP3 protocol which is widely used by companies in the energy sector in Britain, Australia, the USA and other countries. Furthermore, users can also benefit from an updated user interface for even easier configuration and management of connected devices.

#PAuto @HMSIxxat @mepaxIntPR

Unique EMC Cable Gland.


The icotek EMC-KVT-DS, the world’s first split EMC cable gland for preassembled cables of thread size M32 which also provides IP54 protection for use in extreme outdoor conditions is now available from Foremost Electronics.

Alan Vincent, Sales Director of Foremost Electronics, comments; "icotek offer a very wide range of innovative cable access and EMC shielding products which greatly simplify system assembly for panel builders and integrators.”

The new EMC-KVT-DS Split EMC cable gland is based on the standard icotek KVT product with the addition of a galvanised coating to create a conductive surface. Uniquely featuring two cable grommets, the KT (small) is used for strain relief and ingress protection up to IP54 on the cable jacket while the second EMC-KT (small) makes contact with the cable shield over a full 360 degrees reliably diverting EMC disturbances via earthing achieved by an EMC locknut.

Key features of the icotek EMC-KVT-DS  include use with pre-terminated cables as connector does not have to be removed for assembly, integrated strain relief, 360° contact to the cable shield ensures both conducted and field-bound EMC disturbances can be reliably diverted, EMC grommets made entirely from conductive elastomer, very good dissipation values, excellent shielding effect with regard to EMC tightness, very attractive and scratch-resistant surface.

#PAuto @4MostElectronic @proactivefleet



Tuesday 26 November 2019

Special pricing for absolute shaft encoders.

A new promotional price offer from Wachendorff covers the leading German industrial encoder and precision automation component manufacturers’ wide range of Industrial Ethernet (IE) based absolute shaft encoders. Available to Irish & British customers of Variohm, the unique patented magnetic technology, WDGA series absolute encoders offer exceptionally high-precision position and velocity measurement with extreme durability and long life in single- or multi-turn versions with up to 16-bit resolution single and 43 bit multi turn. A comprehensive choice of industrial interface options includes PROFINET, PROFIBUS, EtherCAT and a recently introduced Universal-IP versions which feature user-selectable PROFINET-IO and EtherCAT protocols.


Wachendorff’s WDGA series promotional offer for industrial Ethernet versions is available for sample orders received up to the 31st December 2019. As a longstanding distribution partner for Wachendorff, Variohm provide comprehensive support for its entire range and promise special promotional pricing for new applications. Interested system integrators and OEMs should contact Sales at Variohm EuroSensor for further details. Customers should provide project application details and projected quantities.

Wachendorff’s high precision and highly dynamic absolute encoders are considerably less sensitive to vibrations in machines and systems thanks to their unique and patented QuattroMag® and EnDra® technologies for single-turn and multi-turn versions. An angular measurement accuracy of +/- 0.09° and a dynamic range of 50 µsec combines with exceptional levels of robustness to outperform optical absolute encoders.

Variohm EuroSensor also supply and support Wachendorff absolute encoders with alternative interfacing including CANopen, SAE J1939, SSI, and RS485 in addition to its comprehensive incremental encoder range.

 #PAuto @Variohm @mepaxIntPR #Ireland #Britain

Monday 25 November 2019

Monitoring Technology in North Sea.

Wellhead pressure monitoring used as safety measure during the installation of replacement platforms and topsides during two-year redevelopment

Tyra field - North Sea.
Total E&P Denmark A/S has awarded Emerson a contract to provide wellhead pressure monitoring technology to enhance safety during the multi-year redevelopment project to extend the life of Denmark’s biggest gas field.

“Emerson’s wireless technology has been successfully deployed within offshore applications around the world, helping improve the safety of people and operations,” said Roel van Doren, president of Emerson Automation Solutions in Europe. “The ability to offer a complete solution capable of providing real-time measurement and awareness to help Total monitor and respond to pressure changes safely was a key factor in the use of Emerson technology.”

The Tyra field in the Danish part of the North Sea has been in production for more than 30 years but is today suffering from seabed subsidence. Since production started in the 1980s, the seabed has subsided by more than five metres, reducing the air gap between the sea level and the bottom of the platforms. In order to keep the Tyra field in production, Total E&P Denmark is replacing the existing wellhead platforms with new and elevated topsides. The 13-metre-high jacket extensions and new topsides will be installed on top of the existing jacket structures.

The Tyra redevelopment project will ensure continuous production from Denmark’s biggest gas field, while safeguarding Danish North Sea infrastructure. The $3.3 billion investment in the redevelopment is the biggest ever in the Danish North Sea. Once completed, Tyra is expected to produce more than 200 million barrels of oil equivalent. The current Tyra field has two production complexes, Tyra East and Tyra West, which are linked to satellite fields Harald, Roar, Svend, Tyra Southeast and Valdemar.

During the two-year shut-in, Emerson technology will monitor wellhead casing pressures as a safety measure. With power and cable infrastructure unavailable, a wireless and battery-powered solution is required. Emerson will provide more than 200 Rosemount™ wireless pressure transmitters to be installed on the four riser platforms. The devices will transmit data to two standalone Emerson DeltaV™ PK Controllers, to be installed on the offshore accommodation platforms. Data will be presented to construction workers locally on human machine interfaces and relayed to an onshore monitoring point and data historian.

#PAuto #Denmark @EMR_Automation @Emerson_News

Reducing maintenance time for pH probes!

By using retractable probe housings, for example in pH measurement technology, the required regular maintenance of the sensors can be reduced and thus the manual labour for each measuring point can be minimised.

EXNER Process Equipment's retractable probe housings offer plant operators many advantages compared to traditional, fixed measuring points. When used correctly, they can significantly reduce the maintenance work at the measuring point in pH measurement technology, for example, extend the lifespan of the sensors used and increase the reliability and availability of the measurement value.

Here, the retractable probe housing separates the pH sensor from the active process fully automatically and moves it into a separated rinse chamber where the sensor is cleaned. This can be done with a pure water rinse as well as with the addition of cleaning agents. External controls regulate and monitor the whole process. Once the cleaning process is complete, the retractable probe housing moves back into the measurement position and returns the sensor to the process to continue the measurement. The retractable probe housing thus forms a lock between the pH sensor and the process medium to be measured.

Using this process, the lifespan of the sensors used can be extended above all in demanding and rough processes. The reliability of the measurement values can be increased, regular maintenance work reduced, and you can also ensure a more economical operation.

#PAuto #E_P_E #Exner @PresseBox

Friday 22 November 2019

Oxygen analyser.

Oxygen is the latest parameter to be added to Signal’s advanced range of Series 4 continuous gas analysers. The AURORA is a Paramagnetic Oxygen Analyser for accurate percent measurements in incineration processes, inert atmospheres, medical and safety for humans, internal combustion engine exhausts and many more applications.

As a Series 4 instrument, the AURORA is supplied with software for remote access and control over the Internet, and with an optional touch-screen colour display, the AURORA is simple to operate on site. To ensure flexibility, users are able to specify their required configuration and programmable contact closures are available for gas path control.

Offering long-term reliability the unit delivers outstanding performance - 0.1% resolution and 0.1% linearity.

Remote access to Series 4 analysers means that users can perform a number of key functions from the comfort of their own office. This includes analyser set-up and configuration, remote viewing of readings, the collection of logged data and remote troubleshooting; all of which saves the time and cost of site visits.

 #PAuto @GasAnalysers @_Enviro_News

Highest-level component data.

By implementing a new data standard, software solutions provider Eplan contributes to further simplifying control and switchgear construction. The new standard increases the quality of article and device data in Eplan Data Portal, a web service offering product catalogues from numerous component manufacturers. Several thousand data sets – for instance from Rittal, leading provider of enclosure systems and IT infrastructure – are already available at this premium level, and additional well-known component manufacturers are working on providing data in line with this new standard.

When control cabinets or switchgear systems are being designed in 3D, wire lengths automatically calculated, or mounting panels processed by machines, standardised component data are required. These data are also the foundation for the digital twin, which is becoming increasingly indispensable in the product life cycle. The new Eplan Data Standard defines the type of component data required to automate and simplify processes in (pre)planning, engineering, manufacturing and maintenance. Users of Eplan’s engineering software solutions benefit from a significant increase in quality in Eplan Data Portal, which gives them direct online access to the product catalogues from numerous component manufacturers.

Currently, Eplan Data Portal has more than 239.000 users and offers data of more than 913.00 products from 286 manufacturers. All of the software solutions embedded in the Eplan Platform can access this web service. The simple transfer of the available component data into Eplan documentation is via drag and drop, which reduces the effort required in design and increases the quality of machine and plant documentation. Manufacturers are also being optimally supported – the Data Creation Tool based on eCl@ss Advanced offers them an import option that significantly simplifies data provision.

First data in the new standard already available
Several thousand updated component data, with a focus on manufacturing integration, are already available in the new Eplan Data Standard. This includes, for instance, a schematic macro, a 3D file and connection diagrams for typical electrical components. Rittal – sister company of Eplan in the Friedhelm Loh Group – is one of the pioneers in this and has already integrated initial data for control and switchgear systems as the standardisation of such systems is one of the central USPs of the company.

Renowned component manufacturers including ABB, IFM, LAPP, Phoenix Contact, Puls, SEW-Eurodrive, Siemens, Schneider Electric, Wago, Weidmüller, Wieland and others are already implementing the standard – they all recognised the need for comprehensive, standardised data early on. The optimised, standardised data sets can be used to create complete bills of materials or to reliably calculate the weight of the control cabinet using defined weight specifications as just two examples.

A practical example
Around five hundred connections must be laid for the control technology in an average control cabinet – all with different colours, cross-sections and wire processing. Preparing and wiring all of the connections manually requires an average of four minutes per wire, which takes too long to keep up with the competition. Modern production methods get prefabricated wires from machines, saving the effort and time required for manually cutting to length and assembly. But how does the machine know which individual connections exist? The answer lies in the digital twin of the control cabinet, in which all the components were selected in engineering, presented with their characteristics in the schematics and subsequently assembled in the control cabinet in 3D. The connection points and designations for the components are already described in the 3D layout. Using this component data, the electrical designer can output the colors, lengths and wiring targets for the connections with a mouse click and transfer them to the processing machine.

#PAuto @EPLAN_Germany @Rittal @PresseBox

Papers sought on emissions.

The world’s leading experts in emissions monitoring as well as the operators of European processes looking for the latest help and advice on regulations, standards, methods and technologies attend the International Conference and Exhibition on Emissions Monitoring - CEM 2020 . Consequently the event which will take place in Kraków (PL), 13-15th May, represents a superb opportunity for speakers to share their knowledge and experience.

The organisers of CEM 2020 are now accepting abstracts for papers that describe recent research, regulatory developments and real-world case studies. Submissions can be made via the event website

In common with past events, CEM 2020 presentations will address key monitoring themes such as the measurement of particulates and gases at low concentrations. These will include greenhouse gases, mercury and trace gases, as well the new topic of hydrogen in flue gas.

CEM 2020 participants will share the common goal of reliable regulatory compliance and speakers will cover topics such as measurement uncertainty and limits of detection.
Industrial case studies are always popular with delegates and visitors can expect to learn from the experience of speakers in sectors such as power, cement, metals, chemicals, glass, minerals and mining, waste management, incineration and many more.

Some of the presentations will be forward-looking; seeking to predict the development of regulations affecting process emissions, fugitive and diffuse emissions, and the role of fenceline monitoring. Technology has advanced rapidly in recent years and speakers will also speculate on future developments.

An international exhibition will run alongside the CEM 2020 conference, providing visitors with an opportunity to meet almost all of the world’s leading manufacturers of emissions monitoring technology. Summarising, organiser Marcus Pattison says: “Environmental issues have never before been so high on international political agendas, so a visit to Kraków 13th to 15th May 2020 will be an important diary entry for anyone with a professional interest in emissions monitoring and control.”
The 2018 conference.

#CEM2020 #Poland #Environment @_Enviro_News

Machine vision programming upgrade!

The release of CVB 2019 introduces new APIs to provide an innovative way of developing machine vision solutions with Common Vision Blox, together with an impressive range of new tools. These tools provide functionality for hyperspectral and polarisation imaging, as well as OPC UA machine to machine communication capability for Industry 4.0 requirements. In addition it is now possible to develop machine learning solutions on embedded platforms. Object recognition speeds have been greatly increased, as have video sequence recording speeds.

CVB Image Manager and CameraSuite 2019 feature three new object-oriented APIs, supporting C++, .NET and Python. These APIs make getting started with Common Vision Blox significantly easier and help eliminate some of the most common programming issues in lifetime and memory management. Python support in particular brings the power and speed of CVB to a new group of users who are used to quick results and easy programming. The new APIs are compatible with the existing CVB API, meaning that users can build on existing applications without having to re-write their codebase. Linux support now covers Ubuntu 18.04 as well as 16.04 on Intel platforms and ARM. CVB software protection (WIBU dongles and CameraSuite licence) is also now working on ARM.

The CVB Foundation Package 2019 now benefits from a communication framework for Industry 4.0 (OPC UA) and Polarisation functionality as well as improvements to the speed and stability of 3D calibration in Metric. The OPC UA framework allows OPC UA server and client functionality. It is useful for machine-to-machine communications between vision systems and robots or PLCs, for example and is an integral part of an Industry 4.0 connected factory. Polarization is a full toolbox to get the most from the polarisation cameras. It allows easy access to the data from the polarisation sensors from Teledyne DALSA and Sony (used in many camera families). Everything from simple ‘de-mosaicing’ to ‘minimum reflection images’ to Stokes’ parameters and the angle/degree of polarisation can be handled, enabling reflectivity and surface-normal calculations to be made for applications in a wide range of industries.

CVB Spectral is a completely new tool to help industrial users harness the power of hyperspectral imaging for scientific, wavelength-based analysis. CVB Spectral is a complete toolbox for acquiring and preparing hyperspectral data from hyperspectral cameras and ENVI files so that traditional image processing tools can be used on the results. A hyperspectral data-cube, which can also be acquired, saved and loaded using CVB Spectral, can be corrected for optical and lighting effects to create wavelength-correct RGB or LAB colour data. This gives real area colorimetry information far more accurately than can be achieved with 3-chip cameras. The data-cube can also be sliced to produce useful 2D images for further processing. Typically these might be (x, wavelength) or (y,wavelength) at a certain x or y value.

CVB 2019 also contains some significant updates to existing tools. Recognising the importance of embedded vision and machine learning as key machine vision themes, the CVB Polimago machine learning tool is now available for Linux on Intel and ARM platforms. A raw recording method has been added to CVB Movie. This makes full use of the speed of the disks and the data-formats of the camera to allow recording speeds of gigabytes per second. In addition, CUDA support has been added to the 64-bit Windows version of CVB ShapeFinder. This means that with the right GPU hardware it is possible to increase search speed by 250%. An NVidia Jetson version is also available on request.

#PAuto @stemmerimaging

Thursday 21 November 2019

Gas detection controllers.

The modular design of Crowcon’s new GM series controllers delivers versatility since each controller is built to the user’s specification. This includes the choice of input and output types and channel quantity, as well as mounting type and power supply options. The controllers can also be upgraded by adding additional functionality at any time after the initial installation.

The controllers can be specified for traditional 4-20mA analogue communications if that is what the user already works with. However, they can also be supplied with digital addressable communications, which allows multiple fixed detectors to be linked together on a single communication loop. This drastically reduces the cabling and labour costs, as well as the time taken to complete the overall system installation. Users can also choose to mix the two to enjoy ultimate flexibility.

There are three models in the new range. The GM16 provides up to 16 channels, GM64 has 64-channel capacity and the GM128 offers up to 128 channels. The large number of channels enables users to complete applications through one controller, regardless of whether they need a small or large number of channels.

With the GM controller series targeting hazardous gas monitoring applications, the easy-to-use navigation and configuration features improve safety by minimising the time users need to spend in potentially hazardous locations.

Furthermore, the ability to view data and configure the controller remotely improve safety even further. All data and functions can be accessed from the controller front panel or the information can be fed to a remote fixed computer screen or mobile device with internet capability.

Versatility extends to the various formats in which the GM series can display data, helping users to keep track of the information that’s most important for them. All live channels can be displayed simultaneously for a constant check on the system status, with different colours used to highlight alarms. Data can also be displayed in zones, with a separate channel assigned to each zone and up to eight zones displayed at once. In addition, data trends can be displayed for the most recent 24 hours or 30 minutes for a specific channel.

Users can change the display options with a simple scroll button at the controller or with a click via tabs on the remote view via internet browser.

#PAuto @Crowcon @ArmitageComm

Safe cable markers.


TE Connectivity (TE) offers HL Low Fire Hazard cable markers designed to identify large-diameter wire and cable, as well as post-connector installation within harsh environments. Identification print is guaranteed when using TE’s WINTOTAL software in conjunction with the recommended ribbon and thermal transfer printers.



TE’s HL cable markers are designed to offer flexibility for wire and cable identification in harsh, aggressive environments including temperatures from -55°C to 135°C (-67°F to 275°F). Typical installations in demanding environments include mass transit, military, aerospace and industrial applications. Applied using cable ties, “HL cable markers provide the ability to identify large diameter cable and wire bundles” said Thomas Bartlett, TE product manager. “They can also support identification for installed, terminated cables when re-termination is not possible.”

The HL markers are available in white or yellow and assembled on fanfold or reeled paper carrier to allow for greater range of printing formats and kitting. Features of the marker include:
  • Thermal transfer printable
  • Highly flame resistant (excellent resistance to burning - oxygen index 35%)
  • Resistant to key industrial and military grade fluids
  • Several printable widths and heights available
HL markets are EN45545-2 R24 HL3 compliant, the European safety standard to protect human life against onboard fire incidents in railway vehicles. The objective of EN 45545-2 is to minimize the probability of a fire starting, to control the rate and extent of fire development and to minimize the impact of the products of fire on passengers and staff.

#PAuto @TEConnectivity

Supporting clean energy investment.

TransAlta Corporation has selected Emerson as the main automation contractor in its planned conversions of coal-fired units to natural gas. The project is part of TransAlta’s $2 billion (€1.8b) Clean Energy Investment Plan that will convert its existing coal assets in Alberta, Canada, to natural gas and extend its leadership in clean and renewable energy. The coal-to-gas (CTG) conversions at TransAlta’s Keephills and Sundance power plants will help to substantially reduce emissions while providing firm, clean, reliable electricity to Alberta (CDN).

Keephills
TransAlta operates more than 70 power generation facilities across Canada, the United States and Australia. The conversions are part of the utility’s ongoing efforts to leverage wind and natural gas to provide low-cost, low-carbon electricity to consumers. Emerson will lead the design, procurement, installation and commissioning in the replacement of automation systems for CTG projects at both power plants. In the last five years, Emerson has completed 25 CTG conversion projects in North America.

Sundance
Emerson will integrate the new burner management system and replace outdated controls with its Ovation™ automation technology. As plants are converted, Emerson will also provide its high-fidelity digital twin simulator, which will be used as a training tool for operations staff, giving them a safe environment to become adept at handling complex operating scenarios.

The conversion of the first unit begins in autumn 2020, with the projects expected to be completed by 2024. Emerson’s experience in plant conversions, strong local presence and expertise from local Impact Partner Spartan Controls were key factors in its selection for this project. Emerson Impact Partners serve as an exclusive sales channel for many Emerson brands.

“Conversion to natural gas is breathing new life into aging coal plants,” said Bob Yeager, president of Emerson’s power and water business. “TransAlta is to be commended for its commitment to environmental stewardship while taking steps to further enhance its competitive position.”


#PAuto #Canada #Power @EMR_Automation @Emerson_News

Leak Detector for Ammonia and Hydrocarbons.

United Electric Controls has added ammonia and hydrocarbons sensors to its Vanguard WirelessHART Gas Detector. Wireless gas detection reduces compliance costs and improves safety by eliminating the need for wiring and terminations, reducing installation costs by as much as 80 percent and enabling greater coverage density. United Electric Controls WirelessHART gas leak detectors reduce costs and improve safety further because they can run on a single battery for five or more years.

“By adding ammonia and additional hydrocarbons to our popular Vanguard line, we extend the benefits of our WirelessHART solution to provide more flexibility for improving plant safety and complying with emissions regulations. Detection of toxic and combustible gases is critical to both plant safety and emissions monitoring. Wireless technology makes it much more affordable to install gas detectors in areas of the plant that are hard to reach or where running new power or communication wires is cost-prohibitive,” said Chris Frail, Vanguard product manager.

Monitoring ammonia gas leaks
Ammonia leak detection is critical in chemical plants that produce or store it for use in their processes. A good example is temporary storage tanks, which must be monitored for the presence of fugitive vapors constantly, but for which wiring communications and power can be costly and labor-intensive. Wireless detectors make it easy and affordable to deploy or redeploy sensors where and when they are needed.

Ammonia gas leaks in food and beverage plants and other settings where refrigeration is in use are increasingly common as federal regulations drive ammonia to replace fluorocarbons refrigerants. Ammonia is popular for this because it is readily available, has low Global Warming Potential (GWP) and Ozone Depletion (ODP) values and is a generally cost-effective solution, but it is also both toxic and combustible, which requires real-time monitoring.

In the power industry, ammonia is used to reduce nitrogen oxide (NO) — the chemical that creates smog and acid rain (NOx) -- in flue gas in coal-plants before it enters the atmosphere. Leaks are possible during operation or in storage areas.

Monitoring hydrocarbons gas leaks
Cost-effective leakage of non-methane hydrocarbon gases (NMHCs) such as butane (CH4H10), pentane (C5H12), and propane (C3H8) are also increasingly necessary for plant safety and regulatory compliance.

In the power industry, for example, remote locations are increasingly moving to liquefied propane gas (LPG) as a power source over alternatives like diesel and fuel oil because it is more environmentally friendly. Storage tanks and transportation for these would require monitoring for leaks.

Refineries, petrochemical plants, and other downstream operations produce hydrocarbon gases, such as propane, heptane, and butane for applications from primary fuel sources to byproducts of other chemical reactions. Each point of use or storage has the potential for leaks that can be toxic, flammable, explosive, or harm the environment.

Connecting to the network
WirelessHART Vanguard Gas Detectors interface with existing networks to provide continuous coverage while reducing the cost of detecting toxic and combustible gases. Vanguard gas detectors handle a broad ambient operating temperature range (-40°C to 65°C); feature enhanced zero stability, and are equipped with interchangeable firmware that enables measurement of additional gases without changing the base unit.

Sensor heads for hydrocarbons gases will be available in January of 2020. In addition to NH3 and hydrocarbons gas leak monitoring, Vanguard offers interchangeable sensor heads for methane (CH4) carbon monoxide (CO), and hydrogen sulfide (H2S.) Future Vanguard versions will detect other gases, including hydrogen from electric generators and battery rooms and oxygen that might be depleted in continuous emissions monitoring (CEM) shelters.

#PAuto @UEControls

Tap torque testing!

An innovative TorqSense wireless torque sensor from Sensor Technology provided an effective solution to an interesting engineering challenge when Advanced Design Innovations (ADI), a specialist supplier of custom manufacturing and testing equipment, was asked by Bristan, one of Britain's largest and most successful manufacturers of bathroom taps and showers, to develop a new durability test rig to help optimise product performance.

Bristan prides itself on the quality and durability of its products, and backs them with a solid guarantee. In order to ensure that the products always meet its very high standards, the company regularly subjects samples to an exhaustive testing regime, an important part of which is durability testing for taps, thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) and the rotary controls on its show units.

Until recently, the company carried out these tests by continuously operating the taps and controls using a pneumatically operated test rig with fixed stop positions for the rotary motion. This arrangement was not entirely satisfactory, however, as it made little allowance for any increase in operating torque that occurred during testing and it could not accommodate the effects of wear in, for example, the rubber washers used in taps.

For help with devising a better method of testing, Bristan approached ADI, a company that it knew had wide experience in developing specialist test equipment. After carefully analysing the application requirements, ADI proposed a completely new test rig, which would be driven by servomotors rather than pneumatic cylinders, as this would allow much more accurate and consistent control to be achieved.

In addition, instead of using fixed stops for the rotary motion, the new test rig would be arranged to stop when the torque in the drive system reached a preset value. This arrangement was preferred as it would not only compensate automatically for wear in the component under test, but would also more accurately reflect the real life operation of the component, since users typically stop tightening a tap or rotating a control when a certain level of “stiffness” is reached.

While the design of the new test rig was in many respects straightforward, ADI did face one particular challenge – how to measure the torque developed by the drive system accurately and in real time, so that the stopping points could be determined.

Preliminary investigations revealed that typical torque sensors were far too bulky to accommodate in a reasonably sized test rig, and also that they were incapable of delivering accurate results over the range required – from 1.5 Nm to 3.0 Nm. In addition, most of the torque sensors had non-optional speed monitoring functions built in, which increased costs even though they were not required for this application. After further research, however, ADI discovered the innovative TorqSense range of sensors from Sensor Technology.

“These versatile sensors were exactly what we needed,” said Jeff Lowe of ADI. “They’re tiny, so they were easy to accommodate on the test rig, they’re dependable, and they provide very accurate results in real time, even at the very low torque levels we are interested in. Also, because they’re not tied to unnecessary extras like speed monitoring, they were a very cost effective choice for this application.”

The TorqSense units are a new type of sensor based on patented technology that makes use of surface acoustic wave transducers. These transducers comprise two thin metal electrodes, in the form of interlocking “fingers”, on a piezoelectric substrate such as quartz. When an RF signal of the correct frequency is applied to the transducer, surface acoustic waves are set up, and the transducer behaves as a resonant circuit.

The essential feature, however, is that if the substrate is deformed, the resonant frequency changes. When the transducer is attached to a drive shaft, the deformation of the substrate and hence the change in resonant frequency is related to the torque applied to the shaft. In other words, the transducer, in effect, becomes a frequency-dependent strain gauge.

Since the transducers operate at radio frequencies, it is easy to couple signals to them wirelessly. Hence, TorqSense sensors that incorporate the SAW transducer technology can be used on rotating shafts, and can provide data continuously without the need for the inherently unreliable brushes and slip rings that are often found in traditional torque measurement systems.

“At Bristan we pride ourselves on our rigorous test procedures to ensure that our taps and showers are of the highest quality,” said Adrian Lowe, Test Laboratory Manager at Bristan. “Our previous test rig, while fit for purpose, didn't allow for such thorough and accurate testing. The new rig is an invaluable tool in ensuring that we continue to maintain the high quality for which our products are known, and also for helping us develop new and groundbreaking products in the future.”

#Testing @sensortech @BristanPro 

Headline sponsor announced!

The Industry 4.0 Summit & Expo has announced that Bosch Rexroth are headline sponsor for the 4th year in a row.

The Industry 4.0 Summit & Expo takes place at the Manchester Central Convention Complex (GB) 
31 March – 1 April 2020.
Since the event’s launch in 2017, the Industry 4.0 Summit & Expo has attracted 1000s of visitors across the British manufacturing spectrum looking to improve their manufacturing operations by using the latest smart technologies.

As one of the world’s leading factory automation companies and a recognised leader in industry 4.0, Bosch Rexroth’s commitment to the event is a testament of the opportunities that smart technologies can bring to British manufacturing in this age of the 4th industrial revolution.

Bosch Rexroth’s UK Marketing Manager Sean Kilgallen says “We are glad to be back as a headline sponsor. We have managed to secure a number of high-value sales leads & contracts on the strength of our brand association with industry 4.0 & the event, and also by meeting many important senior manufacturing executives at the show. We look forward to another successful partnership and meeting more companies keen on making their manufacturing smarter.”

Event Organiser Gary Gilmour added “We have been very lucky to have the support of a company like Bosch Rexroth who have supported us from day one. It really is a huge boost that they are supporting once again, and have secured substantial return on investment each year. We will be working tirelessly to make the next event bigger & better and attract many more visitors eager to make their manufacturing smarter.”

#PAuto #Industrie4 #industry40 @BoschRexroth @Industry_4 #Britain

Wednesday 20 November 2019

Troubleshooting for motors and drives.

As an integral part in its aim to educate and support technicians in best practice for maintenance and troubleshooting across a wide range of industrial processes, Fluke has developed a wealth of background information relating to preventive maintenance and troubleshooting motors and drives.

The user is immediately offered the opportunity to contact and speak to a Fluke motor drive specialist for advice on optimum approaches and the ideal tools.

Ten illustrated pages, Introduction to motors and drives, provide information about the basics of motors and drives and the sort of Fluke tools that are ideal for taking measurements, such as thermal imagers, motor drive and power quality analysers, and vibration testers and shaft alignment tools.
Four detailed Customer stories describe in detail the problems faced by industrial users and how they solved them using Fluke products including motor drive and power quality analysers.

Seven detailed Checklists and guides provide information on best practice approach to preventive maintenance to keep a plant up and running and to minimise downtime.

The Troubleshooting motors and drives page also includes two short videos, one a case study showing the application of a Fluke 438-II Power Quality and Motor Analyser to regularly monitor motors and thus minimise downtime, and the other showing how intuitive Fluke MDA-510 and MDA-550 Motor Drive Analysers are to use, even if on an irregular basis.

#PAuto @FlukeCorp #TandM

Tuesday 19 November 2019

MES solutions provider has new MD in India.

Rajesh Vedak has been appointed Managing Director of Werum IT Solutions India Private Ltd. In his new role, he will oversee all business development activities and operations in India. He will be actively involved in strategic planning to further expand Werum India and strengthen the company's position on the local market.

Rajesh Vedak
"Rajesh Vedak was instrumental in streamlining our business offering in India over the last few years," says Jens Woehlbier, CEO of Werum IT Solutions GmbH. "We are in an exciting phase of expanding our infrastructure and operations in India. With an aligned setup and with Rajesh as our new Managing Director India, we can further improve our support for the Indian pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical manufacturers. I wish him great success in his new position."

Rajesh Vedak looks back on more than 20 years of experience in the Indian life sciences industry. In 2016, he joined Werum as Country Manager India. In this role, he has created a strong foundation for a sustainable long-term support structure to offer Werum's best-in-class manufacturing IT solutions to regional pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical manufacturers.

Previously, he had held different functional and managerial positions at various solution providers supporting biopharma manufacturers in India. Moreover, he had worked at Merck Millipore.

#PAuto @Werum #India

Monday 18 November 2019

Machine vision on show!

The 2020 UKIVA Machine Vision Conference and Exhibition will take place on 14 May 2020 at the Marshall Arena in Milton Keynes (GB). With year on year growth since its inception in 2017, the event is rapidly becoming a fixture in the industry’s calendar. While the event will follow a similar format to previous years, with a comprehensive program of technical seminars supported by an exhibition from leading companies in the industry, a new panel discussion session is being included for the first time.

UKIVA Chairman, Allan Anderson, explained: “This event has always been characterised by providing a platform where visitors can learn about many different facets of machine vision. In 2020 we plan to take this a stage further by opening the afternoon session with a discussion forum, where a panel of leading experts will answer questions about any aspect of machine vision.”

The previous events have attracted many who were keen to explore the latest developments in vision in addition to large numbers of people who wanted to learn more about the fundamentals of vision technology. The Conference will cover the key issues such as: Deep Learning & Embedded Vision, Vision & Robotics, 3D Vision, Optics & Illumination, Vision Innovation, Camera Technology and Systems & Applications, as well as Understanding Vision Technology.

Chris Valdes, UKIVA event organiser and business development manager for UKIVA and BARA (British Automation and Robotics Association), said: “Many visitors in previous years have commented on how much they like the format of this event. The Exhibition features a world-class cross section of manufacturers, vision component and system distributors and systems integrators. With the Conference theatres located around the exhibition there is plenty of opportunity both to see some of the latest vision products and to network with industry experts.”

#PAuto #Britain @UKIVAconfex @ppmaltd 

Digital innovation hub!

Pic: @valphoto
The first of three gteic hubs to be developed in the Cork Gaeltacht will add a further boost to business and innovation in Múscraí. (An scéal seo i nGaeilge)

The two ministers @ the centre
Corks newest digital and innovation hub, gteic@Béal Átha an Ghaorthaidh, in the heart of the Cork Gaeltacht, has been officially opened by the Minister for Agriculture, Marine and Food, Michael Creed, TD, alongside Government Chief Whip and Minister for State for Gaeilge, Gaeltacht and the Islands, Seán Kyne, TD.

gteic@Béal Átha an Ghaorthaidh has been completed as part of a network of 31 innovation & digital hubs with high speed broadband being developed by Údarás na Gaeltachta in locations throughout Ireland’s Gaeltacht Area. It is a state of the art innovation and digital hub located on the Údarás na Gaeltachta business park in Béal Átha an Ghaorthaidh, in the Cork Gaeltacht where the unique Gaeltacht culture drives creativity and innovation.

Údarás na Gaeltachta has invested over €1.5 million in the development of the hubs, with additional funding in excess of €3.5 million approved from the Government’s Rural Regeneration and Development Fund also.

Eight hubs have been opened to date in
• Gaoth Dobhair in Co. Donegal,
• Béal an Mhuirthead in Co. Mayo,
• Carna, An Cheathrú Rua, An Spidéal and Na Forbacha in Co. Galway,
• Béal Átha an Ghaorthaidh in Co. Cork and the
• Daingean Uí Chúis (Mol Teic/Dingle hub) in Co. Kerry.
22 hot desk/coworking spaces, meeting and video conferencing facilities and gigabit enabled broadband in an open and creative workspace offers endless possibilities to entrepreneurs, innovators, remote workers and concept developers in the tranquil surroundings of this west Cork hamlet.

This development will give the Gaeltacht community, both at home and abroad, an opportunity to return to or live in their home area by providing remote working opportunities at hot desks or co-working spaces. This in turn will support, bolster and assist these unique language communities and help them to face the challenges of rural depopulation.

An opportunity of improved worklife balance will not be the only benefit of gteic membership! A reciprocal arrangement agreed with the Guinness Enterprise Centre in Dublin means that any member of the GEC can avail of the gteic facilities anywhere along the network and members of the gteic digital community can avail of the facilities in GEC in Dublin free of charge.

Minister Kyne meets some of the hub users
An unique aspect of the gteic Gréasán Digiteach na Gaeltachta network is that they are being developed and operated on a collaborative basis with the local community in these rural areas. gteic@Béal Átha an Ghaorthaidh will be operated by Comharchumann Forbartha Mhúscraí (the local community development organisation) on behalf of Údarás na Gaeltachta.

There are currently seven people operating from the hub which represents a mixture of self-employed people and remote workers. The upcoming Christmas period looks to be busy with gteic@Béal Átha an Ghaorthaidh providing options to natives of the area to extend their stay at home over the festive period.

This growing digital ecosystem is providing an excellent opportunity for new technology companies to establish or locate themselves in the rural areas which encompass the Gaeltacht and for their employees to enjoy the excellent worklife balance that these picturesque areas can offer.

gteic@Béal Átha an Ghaorthaidh represents one of three gteic digital hubs that will be developed by Údarás na Gaeltachta in the Cork Gaeltacht. It is hoped that works on a gteic hub on Oileán Chléire (Cape Clear) will be completed in the coming weeks. With the assistance of funding from the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund a masterplan for the Coláiste Íosagáin campus in Baile Bhuirne is being progressed which will also include a gteic innovation and digital hub.





Successful VOC detection.

Texas-based Lone Star Hazmat Response is using a handheld TigerLT volatile organic compound (VOC) monitor from Ion Science to identify the presence of potentially harmful VOCs at hazardous materials incidents. Chosen for its ease of use, quick start and humidity resistant design, the entry-level photoionisation detector (PID) is helping the emergency spill and land remediation specialist to increase efficiencies by quickly and accurately determining the level of protection required by first responders.

For more than 15 years, Lone Star Hazmat Response has excelled at providing industry-leading emergency spill response as well as safe and effective environmental remediation services. The company has steadily added to its capabilities and now maintains four strategically located rapid response centres in eastern Texas, which allows it to deploy rapidly whenever an emergency requires its services.

The Lone Star Hazmat Response team, which comprises hazmat specialists and incident commanders, works closely with first responders including firefighters, police and paramedics to provide critical support across a range of hazardous materials incidents. These include roadside emergency spills involving oil, diesel fuel and gasoline, product transfer for situations where fluid must be moved from a compromised vehicle to another or in the unfortunate event of an oil, gas or salt water release.

As part of its commitment to ensuring the safety of first responders, Lone Star Hazmat Response is using the Ion Science TigerLT PID to identify the presence of potentially harmful VOCs on scene and advise on the level of protection required.

Lone Star Hazmat Response uses PID instruments to quickly identify the presence of gases and vapours. Monitoring the ambient air for parts per million (ppm) and parts per billion (ppb) concentrations of VOCs allows the company to quickly evaluate the danger and determine if leaking fugitive gases are toxic.

Richard Lenius, General Manager at Lone Star Hazmat Response comments: “After meeting Ion Science at the TCEQ trade conference and learning more about its products, we chose the 
TigerLT handheld PID as it met our cost and functionality requirements. During testing the instrument proved extremely easy to operate and ready to use immediately after powering on. As we get called out to all kinds of environments, I was also particularly drawn to the instrument’s humidity resistance and anti-contamination design especially as our other PIDs had failed on humid days.”

This unit, which offers worldwide Intrinsic Safety (IS) certification for use in potentially explosive atmospheres, is a streamlined, low cost version of Ion Science’s well proven Tiger PID model.

Like all Ion Science PID instruments, the TigerLT incorporates the company’s market-leading PID technology with advanced patented fence electrode system. This three- electrode format ensures increased resistance to humidity and contamination for ultimate reliability and accuracy in the field.

With a detection range of 0.1 - 5,000 ppm utilising a standard two-point calibration protocol, Ion Science’s robust TigerLT also offers an unrivalled industry response time of just two seconds and equally quick clear down.

Although a PID is not specific in terms of gas selection, it offers a continuous and almost instant response rate enabling first responders to carry out their duties secure in the knowledge that their exposure to hazardous chemicals is limited.

“By its very nature, emergency response work carries an element of the unknown which can sometimes hinder our ability to quickly provide the vital information needed by first responders to ensure their own protection as well as that of bystanders and the wider community,” Richard adds. “Even in the most challenging environments, a single PID like the Ion Science TigerLT gives fast, accurate and reliable results and a true reading rather than a percentage of mixed air.”

Both simple to operate and service, the TigerLT offers easy access to the lamp and sensor with batteries that can be safely replaced in hazardous environments. The intrinsically safe instrument also meets ATEX, IECEx, UL and CSA standards.

The key advantage over other similar, low cost handheld PID instruments is its market leading accuracy and run time due to is anti-contamination and humidity resistant design. Another attribute is its global Intrinsic Safety certification. Although the accreditation process can differ from country to country, the TigerLT can be used in explosive hazardous areas such as within petrochemical plants that are located anywhere in the world.

The TigerLT six pin MiniPID detector cell with anti-contamination design dramatically extends run time in the field. Low cost filters and lamps can be easily changed in minutes, minimising downtime.

It features long life rechargeable Li-ion batteries which give up to 24 hours usage. Fast battery charging allows the instrument to be fully charged in 6.5 hours, while eight hours of use can be achieved from 1.5 hours of charging time.

Richard continues: “The clear, back lit display with large font enables those members of the team that require glasses to see air readings better than the other PIDs we have used. It is
also quick and ready for use in comparison. One of the features that we particularly like is the quick button for zeroing the air.”

TigerLT features a protective, removable boot for harsh environments while a large, clear back-lit display allows for easy viewing in any light condition. It is IP 65 rated against water ingress. An integrated torch is designed for directing the instrument’s probe into dimly lit areas. Other features include a loud 95 dB audible alarm and multiple language support.

Ready to use, straight out of the box, the TigerLT does not require complicated set up procedures via a PC to perform basic functions.

Richard concludes: “Overall we have been really pleased with the TigerLT and the service provided by Ion Science. We would definitely recommend the instrument to other emergency hazmat response companies. In fact, I have already demonstrated the TigerLT to multiple fire department hazmat teams.”


#PAuto @ionscience @elhcomms @Hazmat_Lonestar

Friday 15 November 2019

Mobile configuration & parameterisation.

Endress+Hauser is now offering its Field Xpert together with Softing's mobiLink interface as a practical bundle for parameterizing and commissioning field devices.

The combination of Softing's mobiLink interface with the Field Xpert SMT70 or SMT77 Tablet PC from Endress+Hauser offers users a simple and safe system solution for configuring and parameterizing field devices for the most important process automation protocols - HART, PROFIBUS PA and FOUNDATION Fieldbus. The bundle includes a Field Xpert SMT70 or SMT77 tablet with pre-installed CommDTMs (HART, PROFIBUS PA and FOUNDATION Fieldbus), a mobiLink interface that establishes the connection to the tablet via Bluetooth, and optionally a license to use mobiLink for the configuration of FOUNDATION Fieldbus and PROFIBUS PA field devices. mobiLink is now available from Endress+Hauser under the name FieldPort SFP50.

Dr. Rolf Birkhofer, CEO of Endress+Hauser Digital Solutions: “mobiLink is seamlessly integrated into our Field Xpert, which can be used as a powerful Tablet PC for device configuration in Zone 2, Zone 1 or in non-explosive areas. It provides easy access to all field instruments and is a simple, touchable tool that allows field instruments to be managed throughout their lifecycle.”

Peter Juengling, Key Account Manager at Softing Industrial: “We are proud to be able to look back on a long-standing partnership with Endress+Hauser. We already offer a range of interface products that connect to the Field Xpert SMT70 or SMT77 tablet for device configuration and to Endress+Hauser's FieldCare SFE500 Plant Asset Management Software. With mobiLink we simplify mobile access to field devices for plant operators, system integrators, device developers and other users in the process industry. Together with the Ex-certified tablets from Endress+Hauser, we now have a cost-effective and easy-to-use all-in-one solution.

#PAuto @SoftingIA @Endress_Hauser @mepaxIntPR