MagIC Net Monitors Intelligent IC Components

MagIC Net is the controlling interface for the range of intelligent ion chromatography (IC) instruments from Metrohm. It facilitates operation through clear symbols and a well-arranged layout that monitors all the components and accessories associated with the IC hardware. MagIC Net is an integral part of intelligent IC and allows logical decisions to be performed - for example, automatic inline sample dilution - and monitors all the intelligent system components (Ipump, Icolumn, Idetector and intelligent dosing units), notifying the user when maintenance or service is required, for instance.

The hardware is equipped with a memory chip that stores device-specific data that can be accessed at any time using MagIC Net. When the method is started, the parameters are checked, ensuring accurate, reliable results every time. MagIC Net includes control and monitoring functions; the control functions graphically display the data while the monitoring limits trigger a predefined alarm that can send an email or turn off the IC in the event of a method violation, for example.

The expiry date and exchange intervals can be set for the validity of calibration graphs, for the lifetime of eluents and standards and for a maximum number of injections performed per column. All the data generated goes into a database from where it can be automatically exported into another application or into a LIMS system. Regardless of whether the IC is operated by an expert or a novice, the interface can be customised accordingly to suit requirements.

If a Dosino is added to the instrument (an intelligent dosing device used for the transfer of sample or dilution or an external rinse station, for instance), it is recognised automatically by the software, while the smart wizard templates make writing methods simple, according to the company. Client-server functionality enables a centralised data administration, allowing all determinations and methods to be stored and accessed by each station, depending upon allowed access privileges.

Daqstation Monitors Shipped Refrigerated Food

Yokogawa Electric has developed a range of monitoring systems for use on temperature-controlled container ships used for cold-treated food transportation. Based on Yokogawa's data-acquisition hardware integrated with customised software, these systems have received the all-important USDA certification, which is mandatory for all food imported by ship into the US. The USDA In-Transit Cold Treatment regulation stipulates that a USDA-approved recording system has to be on board every cooling vessel importing goods such as bananas and citrus fruits into the US.

Approval for the Yokogawa recording systems and their associated software solutions means Yokogawa can offer a range of USDA-approved recording systems that will suit vessels of all sizes and levels of sophistication. Key products used in the USDA-approved systems include the DXAdvanced Daqstation range of data-acquisition and control stations and the MX100 PC-based data-acquisition system. These products complement earlier Yokogawa devices with USDA approval, including the DR240 hybrid recorder and the UR20000 chart recorder.

The DXAdvanced Daqstation, with its high-visibility TFT screen, is ideal for environments where instant visual feedback and alerts are essential. Measured values are captured on both a high-capacity internal memory (80 to 200Mbyte) and removable flash storage (up to 2Gbyte). Combined with MW100 remote input units, the Daqstation can log more than 240 input signals. When configured with Yokogawa's Advanced Report software tool, USDA-approved reports can be automatically generated at user-specified intervals.

The PC front-end MX100 system offers reliable multi-channel data acquisition for easy connection to a PC running MCPS logging and monitoring software. The live monitoring screens give a clear indication of trend curves and actual measurement values, while the customised report function and automated tasks periodically create USDA reports showing the temperature conditions of all cooling compartments during a journey.

Gasmet DX4030 Simultaneously Monitors 50 Gases

Quantitech's Gasmet DX4030 portable FTIR gas analyser has improved the testing of cargo containers at ports and airports. The DX4030 can simultaneously monitor 50 different gases, including fumigants (both organic and inorganic), specific volatile organic compounds (VOCs), toxic industrial chemicals (TICs) and chemical warfare agents (CWAs). In addition to the instantaneous display of target gases, the FTIR records a sample spectrum from which hundreds of compounds can be analysed.

Cargo containers, wooden packing materials and foodstuffs are fumigated by shipping companies to control the spread of pests and micro-organisms. Fumigant gases are toxic and containers are therefore monitored for health and safety purposes on arrival at each new port or destination. In addition, products shipped in containers can release VOCs from solvents and glues used in the manufacturing process, and their concentration may accumulate in the confined space of a container.

FTIR offers major advantages over traditional portable monitoring technologies because of its specificity and lower susceptibility to interference gases. The FTIR analyser is found in a backpack and provides laboratory-grade analysis in a field instrument. A video demonstration of the DX4030 is available online at the Quantitech website and visitors to 'Counter Terror 2010' at Olympia, London on 14-15 April can view the DX4030 in action.

Assure Platinum Monitors Blood Glucose

Arkray has brought out the Assure Platinum Blood Glucose Monitoring System, an auto-code system designed for long-term care and multi-resident use settings. Auto-coding eliminates the need for any other form of manual coding, reducing error and ensuring more consistent and accurate results.

The Assure Platinum helps facilities meet state regulatory standards and provide better resident care. Assure Blood Glucose Meters are backed by the Assure Brilliance service programme. Assure Brilliance provides customer service, on-site training, QA/QC guidance, diabetes F-Tag advice for long-term care, a quarterly newsletter, online continuing-education programs and more, to help facilities manage complex diabetes care. The Assure system received 510(k) clearance from the FDA in December 2009.

Marga System Monitors Particulate Matter

Applikon has announced that its Marga system can be used to monitor aerosols and gases in ambient air. Air pollution not only comprises gaseous components but also particulate matter (PM) in the form of tiny particles. Marga is able to quantitatively sample PM and acidifying gases, which are then separated by a WRD (wet rotating denuder) and SJAC (steam jet aerosol collector) respectively.

The collected samples are analysed by integrated ion chromatographs. A Marga system is also available with two sample boxes to determine size segregated composition or deposition velocities. Features of the system include: continuous monitoring with hourly results; results on the composition of gases and aerosols; remote access and data transfer; one-week unattended operation; smart software with security and validation levels; and quality assurance of the measurement with internal standard.

Smart Wireless Monitors Temperatures In Plant

Emerson's Smart Wireless network using the Wirelesshart communications standard is contributing to process improvements at the Calgon Carbon plant in Blue Lake, California. The network provides continuous temperature measurements from a rotating catalyst kiln, where spent carbon particles are reactivated. Six Rosemount wireless temperature transmitters were installed to monitor temperatures in the kiln and transmit a steady stream of data, giving operators more information for controlling heat levels in each zone.

The wireless transmitters mounted on raised platforms on the surface of the kiln were connected to the existing thermocouples and the Wirelesshart self-organising mesh network was set up with a single Smart Wireless gateway. The six transmitters monitor temperatures in five zones of the kiln and at the outlet, communicating data reliably from the rotating kiln to the gateway, which then integrates the measurements in a host PLC.

Emerson offers a range of wireless field-instrumentation and plant-operations equipment, including Fisher position monitors, Rosemount Analytical and Machinery Health Management devices, and native wireless interfaces to AMS Suite predictive maintenance software, DeltaV digital-automation systems and Smartstart services.

Quietdose Monitors In-Ear Noise Exposure At Work

Howard Leight by Sperian has introduced Quietdose, a personal dosimeter that measures and records a worker's actual in-ear exposure to noise over an entire work shift. The Quietdose system consists of a small Exposure Smart Protector (ESP) Dosimeter that's worn by employees in a shirt pocket or on the back of a hardhat; earplugs or an earmuff with integrated microphones that record real-time in-ear noise levels; and a connecting harness.

An infrared reader enables safety managers to retrieve data from the ESP Dosimeter at the end of each shift or work week and analyse the results on a personal computer. Quietdose enables safety managers and employees to: track, document and address the potential of occupational hearing loss and Standard Threshold Shift (STS) in real time; select appropriate hearing protectors for each employee's noise environment; train and monitor employees as to the correct use of earplugs or earmuffs; streamline worker deployment by more accurately matching shift hours with correct protection; identify potential opportunities to eliminate dual protection (the use of earplugs and earmuffs); compare the benefit of monitoring employee noise dose versus making capital investments in engineering controls to reduce specific noise levels.

An additional benefit of the system is that workers can personally monitor and control their noise exposure in real time. Flashing alerts indicate when noise exposure reaches or exceeds prescribed limits. If an earplug has not been inserted properly, Quietdose will alert the worker that they are not receiving adequate protection. If a worker removes their earplug for any length of time, Quietdose will assess that additional exposure and alert them should they exceed their allowable dose.

Metra-Sum Monitors Delivery Of All Liquids

Titan Enterprises has introduced the Metra-Sum combined flow sensor and battery-powered six-digit flow totaliser. The Metra-Sum flow sensor is suitable for monitoring the delivery or dispense of any liquid, including viscous oils and non-conducting solvents.

Built from corrosion-resistant polyethersulphone, the unit has excellent accuracy for inventory control and stock accounting for valuable fluid use, at flows up to four litres a minute. Electronic outputs and alarms are optionally available.

Available soon will be PVDF-bodied corrosion-resistant mini-turbines for ultra-low power or battery applications and measuring liquid flows of up to 15 litres a minute; a new low-cost IP65 onsite flow display; and the latest sensor for wide flow-range non-obstructive metering, in pipes from 12mm down to 1mm diameter.

DTS System Monitors Power Cable Temperature

Lios has supplied its DTS system to a renewable energy company for monitoring the temperature of two medium-voltage power cables coming from a wind turbine towards the substation. All asset condition-monitoring data from the controller is linked in real time by means of the Modbus communication protocol to the operator's Scada system.

The company said that by using DTS it has a better control over the thermal cable conditions, thus over the load of the power cables, meaning it can utilise its assets more economically.

Sensonics Installs Vibration And Speed Monitors

Sensonics, a condition monitoring specialist, has supplied and installed DN26 series vibration and speed monitors for Shanghai Boasteel, an iron and steel company in China. The contract for the supply and installation of the monitors was completed in conjunction with Star Royal Industry and Engineering, Sensonics' Shanghai-based distributor.

The two new systems monitor the bearing vibration of de-dusting and sintering fans, providing online condition monitoring and shutdown protection.

IVT Monitors Current And Voltage In Electric Cars

Isabellenhuette Heusler has introduced a sensor module (IVT) that measures current and voltage during lithium-ion battery charging and discharging periods. It can be configured according to customer requirements. It is suitable for use in hybrid and electric vehicles.

The IVT (shunt measures 20 x 85mm, board measures 20 x 40mm) can perform measurements within a current range of +/- 1,500A at a resolution of 50mA. The sensor module records voltage within a range of +/- 20V at a resolution of 1mV. Measurements are taken via a 100-u-ohm-shunt and measured values are logged by the four-channel 16-bit data-acquisition system ISA-ASIC. For this pre-calibrated sensor module, customer calibration is no longer necessary. Both supply voltage and SPI signal are electrically isolated.

AMOT XTS-W Monitors Bearings In Russian Ships

Primorsk Shipping has specified AMOT XTS-W bearing-condition monitors for a fleet of five new tankers and two bulkers built by STX Shipbuilding in Korea.

The XTS-W system increases reliability by providing real-time monitoring of wear in the crank train bearings, giving an early warning of any pending problems and avoiding possible catastrophic bearing damage and the high cost of unplanned repairs.

A key reason for selecting the AMOT system is that it allows the elimination of usual open-out inspections, which Prisco, like many other ship owners and operators, wants to omit to cut costs and downtime. The tankers are 51,000-ton dead weight and are intended for transporting oil, chemical cargo and agricultural oils.

SymCom MotorSaver Model 202 3-Phase Voltage Monitors

SymCom MotorSaver Model 202 is an auto-ranging voltage monitor designed to protect three-phase motors regardless of size. It is used on 190-480 VAC, 50 to 60 Hz motors to prevent damage caused by single phasing, low voltage, high voltage, phase reversal, or voltage unbalance. A unique microcontroller-based voltage and phase sensing circuit constantly monitors the three phase voltages to detect harmful power line conditions.

When a harmful condition is detected, the MotorSaver's output relay is deactivated after a trip delay. The output relay reactivates after power line conditions return to an acceptable level for the selected amount of time (Restart Delay). The trip delay prevents nuisance tripping due to rapidly fluctuating power line conditions.

Note: To obtain UL listing for the MS202, use insulated 1/4" UL recognized female quick connects.

Features:

• Compact design saves precious panel space.
• 0.25" hole allows easy OEM mounting.
• Diagnostic bicolor LED indicator light is green in normal conditions, red during trip conditions, blinking green while in restart delay mode and blinking red when reverse phased.
• Universal range from 190-480 VAC 50/60 Hz provides the versatility needed to handle global applications.
• Transient protected to meet IEC 1000-4-5,±4kv.
• Detects single phase conditions regardless of regenerated voltages.

Protects 3-Phase motors from:

• Loss of any phase (single phasing)
• High and low voltage
• Voltage unbalance
• Phase reversal

Standard Features:

• UL and cUL recognized
• 5 year warranty
• Made in USA
• Manual, 2-300 sec. variable restart delay
• Mounts on panel surface

Pepperl+Fuchs Unveils Flat-Panel LCD Monitors

Pepperl+Fuchs has introduced the DM5XX Series industrial LCD monitors designed to deliver reliable operation and long life in harsh application environments, and/or continuous duty operation. The monitors deliver a high MTBF at over 550,000 hours and are available as general-purpose displays or as a UL listed Class I/Div 2 device. They come in a variety of mounting styles and can be combined with a Pepperl+Fuchs Bebco EPS purge system for Class I/Div 1 hazardous environment mounting.

Touch-screen options are also available. DM5XX flat-panel monitors are available in 10in, 12in, 15in, 18in, 19in and 20in sizes, and are rated for use in temperatures ranging from -10C to 55C. They accept standard VGA or NTSC inputs from a PC or video camera source. They can multi-sync to any standard video mode from 640 x 480 to 1600 x 1200 at scan rates from 60 to 75Hz, without image distortion or flicker. The DM5XX are 12V DC powered displays, powered from an external power supply to keep heat away from the monitor, maximising reliability and operating life.

This range of rugged flat-panel monitors uses only industrial grade components. No consumer grade electronics are implemented in the product. Additional attributes that make up the industrial flat panel display solution include: heavier gauge metal and wiring; corrosion protection; internal bulkhead wiring; gold plating; latching/tie downs; better shock/vibration specs; shock-absorbing gaskets; higher temperature and humidity specs; brighter back lamps (up to 500 nits) and wider viewing angles; and longevity/support/replaceable back lamps.

Pepperl+Fuchs industrial grade monitors are available with an optional resistive touch screen. This is a UL Listed, five-wire resistive touch screen suitable for general purpose and ex-hazardous Class I/Div 2 environments. A resistive touch screen provides mouse emulation by applying a small amount of pressure on the desired location of the monitor screen. This allows the operator to use a finger, glove, stylus, and so on to initiate the touch-screen functionality. There is also a self-calibration tool for precise adjustments.

For PC interface, the touch screens have both a USB and serial output to be connected to the host PC. Accessories available for these industrial flat panel monitors include: 12V DC power supplies; 12V DC power supplies for Class I/Div 2 applications; five-pin DIN connectors cables for power; analogue video cables (VGA); USB cables for touch-screen interface; serial cables for touch-screen interface; and touch-screen protector overlays.

Pepperl+Fuchs Unveils Flat-Panel LCD Monitors

Pepperl+Fuchs has introduced the DM5XX Series industrial LCD monitors designed to deliver reliable operation and long life in harsh application environments, and/or continuous duty operation. The monitors deliver a high MTBF at over 550,000 hours and are available as general-purpose displays or as a UL listed Class I/Div 2 device. They come in a variety of mounting styles and can be combined with a Pepperl+Fuchs Bebco EPS purge system for Class I/Div 1 hazardous environment mounting.

Touch-screen options are also available. DM5XX flat-panel monitors are available in 10in, 12in, 15in, 18in, 19in and 20in sizes, and are rated for use in temperatures ranging from -10C to 55C. They accept standard VGA or NTSC inputs from a PC or video camera source. They can multi-sync to any standard video mode from 640 x 480 to 1600 x 1200 at scan rates from 60 to 75Hz, without image distortion or flicker. The DM5XX are 12V DC powered displays, powered from an external power supply to keep heat away from the monitor, maximising reliability and operating life.

This range of rugged flat-panel monitors uses only industrial grade components. No consumer grade electronics are implemented in the product. Additional attributes that make up the industrial flat panel display solution include: heavier gauge metal and wiring; corrosion protection; internal bulkhead wiring; gold plating; latching/tie downs; better shock/vibration specs; shock-absorbing gaskets; higher temperature and humidity specs; brighter back lamps (up to 500 nits) and wider viewing angles; and longevity/support/replaceable back lamps.

Pepperl+Fuchs industrial grade monitors are available with an optional resistive touch screen. This is a UL Listed, five-wire resistive touch screen suitable for general purpose and ex-hazardous Class I/Div 2 environments. A resistive touch screen provides mouse emulation by applying a small amount of pressure on the desired location of the monitor screen. This allows the operator to use a finger, glove, stylus, and so on to initiate the touch-screen functionality. There is also a self-calibration tool for precise adjustments.

For PC interface, the touch screens have both a USB and serial output to be connected to the host PC. Accessories available for these industrial flat panel monitors include: 12V DC power supplies; 12V DC power supplies for Class I/Div 2 applications; five-pin DIN connectors cables for power; analogue video cables (VGA); USB cables for touch-screen interface; serial cables for touch-screen interface; and touch-screen protector overlays.