INNOVATIONS IN FLOW MEASUREMENT NEVER STAND STILL


Alicat Scientific produces laminar flow device/ differential pressure based flow instrumentation for many differing markets across the world. The company helps scientists and engineers


solve flow problems. When fast, accurate readings are required, Alicat can offer proven solutions. Furthermore, its staff are scientists, so their technical knowledge is second to none and this, when combined with an inquisitive nature, ensures that innovative solutions and rapid new developments can be specifically applied. Alicat manufactures flow and pressure


measurement/control instruments. The standard product line is fast, versatile, and tough. Alicat instruments help make the customer’s jobs easier and reduce the number of instruments required. The instruments are easy to use and can be delivered quickly. Equipment manufacturers however, often require even more refinements for their process. OEM products are focused on customised solutions often with different form factors, communication protocols and features essential for high volume manufacturing. Since the company’s foundation 26 years ago, areas such as bi-directional mass flow measurement, precision pressure control within dead-ended non-flowing applications, multi- parameter measurement and control, true multi-gas capability and high turn-down have all benefitted from its dedication to innovation. Taking each of these innovations in turn : Bi-directional mass flow measurement. By


the application of either a ‘positive’ or “negative” set-point signal, Alicat has enabled the possibility to control flows into a process in one direction first and then to switch into the opposite direction Alternatively, flows can be controlled into a closed process, and then vented without the need for additional bleed valves. Dual valve precise pressure control. Precise control of pressure reduction and pressure relief


valves, from a single set-point signal ensures process pressure remains stable independent of other variables. Multi-parameter measurement and


control. Measurement of multiple parameters on the one instrument (mass flow, volumetric flow, temperature and pressure) enables the user to eliminate additional components within a system, the pipework/fittings required to install them, cables and electronic signal conditioning plus save time and money in so doing. All parameters are displayed on a single screen for easy monitoring of process gasses or liquids. True multi-gas capability. Alicat


instruments are now pre-loaded with up to 130 full gas calibrations thereby eliminating the additional measurement uncertainty introduced by conversion factors. High turn-down. Alicat instruments have a


turn-down of 200:1 as standard i.e. as low down as 1/200th of the full scale, although with engineering collaboration this could be extended even further. The innovation will never stand still, and


Alicat would welcome the opportunity to assist with any challenges you face and hopefully help solve the impossible! www.www.pctflow.com


Want to keep up to date? Then follow us on Twitter: @CI_process and/or ‘Like’ us on Facebook!


PPMA SHOW CELEBRATES ITS 30TH ANNIVERSARY THIS SEPTEMBER


The manufacturing sector has just achieved its longest period of expansion since 1968, boosted by global economic growth and the weakened pound, while early signs reveal that Britain’s manufacturers are on track to outpace the rest of the economy – setting the year on a strong path for growth. This sets a promising scene for the PPMA Show 2018, which returns to the NEC, Birmingham from 25-27 September to celebrate the industry’s success and mark its own 30th anniversary, in what will be its biggest show to date. Registration for the recently rebranded processing and packaging machinery show is now open. The show will see more than 350 exhibitors


representing 1,500 brands, creating a platform for 8,000 key decision influencers and makers from the world’s food, pharmaceutical, toiletries and FMCG industries to explore the


latest innovations and do business. Leading players including Schneider Electric,


Ishida Europe, Bosch, ABB and Omron Electronics UK are already confirmed to exhibit at the event. As well as the chance to see working


machinery in action, relationship building will be a key focus for this year’s event, with the introduction of new and improved networking facilities. The original Learning Hub format will also be revamped. With manufacturers constantly on the lookout for new opportunities and ways to drive efficiency, the biggest trends and challenges facing the industry will be put under the spotlight during this year’s seminar programme. And finally, the PPMA Group Industry Awards will also take place on the first night of the show. www.ppmashow.co.uk





ASK THE EXPERT: VARIABLE SPEED DRIVE MAINTENANCE:


WHAT CAN I DO AS AN END-USER?


Variable speed drives (VSDs) are now more efficient, productive and easier to use than ever before, but did you know that those efficiency levels promised at the start can easily drift unless your drive is well looked after?


Andy Preston, UK Drives Product Manager, ABB


Whilst most maintenance tasks are best left to a qualified engineer, there are preventive maintenance duties that end users can perform to keep drives healthy and prolong their useful life. Set up a preventive maintenance plan – Drives


have very few parts that need maintenance, but components eventually wear out and so need to be regularly checked, repaired and/or replaced. Being aware of what’s likely to require attention, and when, means you can pre-empt and avoid almost any failure. Check the drive’s user manual to see the manufacturer’s recommendations as to when individual components, such as cooling fans or capacitors, need to be replaced, and see to it that these maintenance duties are carried out. Alternatively, if the manufacturer offers drive registration, register the drive with them and they can remind you what to do and when. The latest drives can be connected remotely to allow factory experts to identify issues before they occur. Keep your drive clean – Dust on VSD hardware


can lead to poor airflow which is detrimental to its performance. Use a vacuum cleaner with antistatic hose and nozzle to clear the heat sinks and circulating fans. Blow compressed air from bottom to top and simultaneously use a vacuum cleaner at the air outlet to trap dust. The compressed air must be a non-static generating spray or a reverse operated electrostatic discharge (ESD) vacuum, as ordinary compressed air contains oil and water, which are not substances you want in your drive. You should also be aware of good safety practices regarding airborne particles. Keep it dry – Moisture on a circuit board will short


circuit the boards causing all sorts of problems, and eventually it causes corrosion, which can lead to drive failure at any time. Even a drive situated in a dry area can attract moisture from unexpected sources. It only takes a small amount of ingress to start doing damage, so ensure that the drive is properly enclosed and situated, and check that there is no way for moisture to get in. Some VSDs use conformal coated boards but mixing water and electronic components is never good.


Keep connections tight – We’re moving towards “leave it to the professionals” territory here, but as long as the drive is powered down and disconnected, you can check that external connections are tight. This can help avoid arcing, which is best avoided as it can cause damage to the drive terminals, overvoltage faults, clearing of input fuses, or damage to protective components. Re-torquing screws is not a good idea, and further tightening an already tight connection can cause further damage. If you have any questions about drives or drive


maintenance, talk to the ABB Drives team on 07000 DRIVES (that’s 07000 374837) or visit www.abb.co.uk/energy.


PROCESS & CONTROL | MAY 2018 7


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28  |  Page 29  |  Page 30  |  Page 31  |  Page 32  |  Page 33  |  Page 34  |  Page 35  |  Page 36  |  Page 37  |  Page 38  |  Page 39  |  Page 40  |  Page 41  |  Page 42  |  Page 43  |  Page 44  |  Page 45  |  Page 46  |  Page 47  |  Page 48  |  Page 49  |  Page 50  |  Page 51  |  Page 52  |  Page 53  |  Page 54  |  Page 55  |  Page 56