The Role of Metal Expansion Joints

Expansion joints, also known as bellows or compensators, are flexible connectors that are used in process and HVAC piping systems to absorb movements, such as thermal expansion and contraction, vibration, and misalignment. They are designed to prevent damage to the piping system, equipment, and surrounding structures by allowing for the movement and stress that occurs within the system.

There are several types of expansion joints, including metallic, non-metallic, and fabric. Metallic expansion joints are made of metal bellows and are typically used in high-pressure and high-temperature applications, as well as in applications that require a high degree of corrosion resistance. These expansion joints are typically made of stainless steel, but they can also be made of other metals such as Inconel, Monel, and Hastelloy.

The main function of metallic expansion joints is to provide flexibility in the piping system. They do this by allowing for movement in three main ways:

• Lateral movement: Metallic expansion joints can accommodate lateral movement, which is movement in a side-to-side direction. This is important in systems that are subjected to thermal expansion and contraction, as the pipes will expand and contract due to temperature changes.
• Angular movement: Metallic expansion joints can also accommodate angular movement, which is movement in a rotational direction. This is important in systems that are subjected to vibration, as the pipes will vibrate due to the flow of fluid or gas.
• Axial movement: Metallic expansion joints can also accommodate axial movement, which is movement in a back-and-forth direction. This is important in systems that are subjected to misalignment, as the pipes may not be perfectly aligned.
• In addition to providing flexibility, metallic expansion joints also help to reduce noise and vibration, and they can protect against the effects of corrosion, erosion, and abrasion. They are often used in a variety of industries, including power generation, petrochemical, pharmaceutical, and food and beverage.

If you'd like to discuss applying metal expansion joints in your application, contact:

Piping Specialties, Inc.

https://psi-team.com

800-223-1468

Cryogenic Ball Valves

Cryogenic ball valves are a type of valve that is designed to function at extremely low temperatures, typically below -150°C. They are used in a variety of applications where low temperature fluids need to be controlled, such as in the storage, transport, and processing of cryogenic gases, such as liquid nitrogen, oxygen, and argon.

Cryogenic ball valves are equipped with special materials and features that enable them to operate effectively at such low temperatures. For example, the body of the valve may be made from materials such as stainless steel or aluminum that have low temperature properties, and the valve may be equipped with a special insulation material to prevent heat transfer from the environment to the valve. The ball and seat of the valve may also be made from materials such as tungsten carbide or ceramic that can withstand extreme cold and wear.

Cryogenic ball valves are used in a variety of industries, including chemical, petrochemical, oil and gas, and food processing. They are commonly found in cryogenic storage tanks, pipelines, and processing equipment. They are also used in research and development facilities, medical facilities, and other industrial settings where low temperature fluids need to be controlled.

Cryogenic ball valves are used in a variety of applications that involve the handling of materials at extremely low temperatures. Some common applications for cryogenic ball valves include:

• LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) storage and transfer: Cryogenic ball valves are used to control the flow of LNG in storage tanks and transfer lines.
• Cryogenic tanks and vessels: Cryogenic ball valves are used to control the flow of cryogenic fluids in tanks and vessels used for storage and transportation.
• Refrigeration and air conditioning: Cryogenic ball valves are used in refrigeration and air conditioning systems to control the flow of refrigerants and other coolants.
• Industrial gases: Cryogenic ball valves are used in the production, storage, and distribution of industrial gases such as oxygen, nitrogen, and argon.
• Chemical and petrochemical processing: Cryogenic ball valves are used in the production and transportation of chemical and petrochemical products that require low temperatures for processing or storage.
• Aerospace and defense: Cryogenic ball valves are used in aerospace and defense applications to control the flow of cryogenic fluids in satellites, rockets, and other space vehicles.

Piping Specialties will assist you in applying the right ball valve for your cryogenic application. Call them at 800-223-1468 or visit https://psi-team.com.

Control Valves, Actuators, and Positioners

Valves regulate fluid flow to provide accurate control and safety in any given process system, and methods of adjusting valve position are always required.

Commonly, valves are operated with handwheels or levers, although some must be regularly opened, closed, or throttled. In certain conditions, it is not always practical to position valves manually; hence actuators are employed instead of hand wheels or levers. 

An actuator is a mechanism that moves or regulates a device, such as a valve. Actuators decrease the requirement for people to operate each valve manually. Valves using actuators can remotely control valve position, particularly crucial in applications where valves open and close or modulate fast and precisely. 

Pneumatic, hydraulic, and electrical actuators are the three fundamental types. 

1. Pneumatic actuators employ air pressure to generate motion and are probably the most prevalent type of actuator utilized in process systems. 
2. Actuators powered by a pressurized liquid, such as hydraulic fluid, are called hydraulic actuators. Typically, hydraulic actuators of the same size produce more torque than pneumatic actuators. 
3. Electric actuators generate motion using electricity. Actuators usually belong to two broad categories: solenoid or motor-driven actuators. 

Actuators position valves in response to controller signals and can be positioned rapidly and precisely to accommodate frequent flow variations. The instrumentation systems that monitor and respond to fluctuations in plant processes include controllers. Controllers receive input from other instrumentation system components, compare that input to a setpoint, and provide a corrective signal to bring the process variable (such as temperature, pressure, level, or flow). 

You have a control valve when actuators pair with flow-limiting or flow-regulating valves. Generally speaking, control valves automatically restrict flow to provide accurate flow to a process to maintain product quality and safety. 

Control valves can be linear, where the stem moves the valve disk up and down like globe valves, or rotational. Rotary control valves include butterfly valves, which open or close with a 90-degree rotation. The pneumatic diaphragm and electric actuators are the most prevalent on linear and rotational control valves.

Some valves require long stem travel or substantial force to change position. A piston actuator's higher torque is preferable to diaphragm actuators in these situations. Examples of piston actuators are rack and pinion and scotch-yoke designs. 

Single-acting piston actuators control the air pressure on one side of a piston, and with higher air pressure, the piston moves within the cylinder and turns the valve. The air on the opposite side of the piston exits the cylinder via an air vent. With decreased air pressure, the spring expands, causing the piston to move in the opposite direction. 

If air pressure falls below a predetermined threshold or is lost, the spring will push the piston to the desired position, referred to as the "fail" position (open or closed). 

A double-acting piston actuator lacks a spring and has air supply ports on both ends of the cylinder. Increasing air pressure to the supply port moves the valve in one direction. Higher pressure air entering from the opposite supply port pushes the valve in the opposite direction. Filling the cylinder with air and releasing air from the cylinder is regulated by a device known as a positioner. 

Typically, the control of pneumatic actuators occurs from air signals from a controller. Some actuators react directly from a controller, for instance, a 3-15 PSI controller pneumatic output. Sometimes, a controller signal alone cannot counteract friction or fluid pressure. This situation requires a separate, higher-pressure air supply and modulating it with a pneumatic or electro-pneumatic positioner. These devices regulate a higher-pressure air supply to ensure that an actuator has enough torque to position a valve accurately. The positioner responds to a change in the controller's air, voltage, or current signal and proportions the higher pressure air to the actuator. Connecting the actuator stem to the positioner is a mechanical linkage. This mechanical connection is also known as a feedback connection. As the actuator stem moves up or down, or rotationally, the link likewise moves. The location of the connection informs the positioner when sufficient movement coincides with the controller's air signal. The controller's signal transmits to the positioner instead directly to the actuator, and the positioner regulates the air supply provided to the actuator.

Like other process components, actuators are prone to mechanical issues. Since actuator issues can negatively impact the operation of a process, it is essential to be able to recognize actuator issues when they occur. Frequently, an operator can notice an actuator fault by comparing the valve position indication to the position specified by the controller. For instance, if the position indicator shows the valve closed, but the flow indicator on the controller indicates that flow is still passing through the valve, the valve seat and disc are likely worn, enabling leakage through the valve.

Because there are so many different styles and designs of actuators, positioners, and valves and so many industrial applications, the combination possibility matrix is vast. You must discuss your application with a knowledgeable, experienced valve expert. The success of your project in terms of product quality, system cost, maintenance, and safety depends upon it.

Piping Specialties / PSI Controls

https://psi-team.com

800-223-1468

The REOTEMP Model W Explosion Proof, Field Mounted, HART Temperature Transmitter

Process control instrumentation monitors and controls a process to maintain proper functioning standards and keep it within a proper functioning and safe operating range. Process variables are the parameters or quantities maintained to keep the process within desired and acceptable limits. Instrumentation systems compare process variables to a desired setpoint and then produce offsetting and corrective control outputs. 

Typical process variables are level, flow, temperature, density, pH (acidity or alkalinity), mass, and conductivity. 

Temperature is a measurement of how hot or cold something is, whether it's an object or a process medium. The temperature setpoint is the process variable's target value for optimum control, quality, and safety. In a process where the temperature stays within plus or minus 1 degree Celsius of 100℃, the setpoint is 100. 

Temperature transmitters are instruments that convert a weak thermocouple or RTD signal to a robust analog (4-20mA or HART) or digital (Profibus or Fieldbus) signal. The temperature sensor and the final control device communicate through the transmitter. Since transmitters provide more robust analog or digital outputs, external signal conditioning and amplification devices are eliminated, thus lowering costs.

The REOTEMP Model W Explosion Proof Field Mounted HART Temperature Transmitter includes a local display, HART compatibility, and a 4-20mA output. The field-mounted transmitter is available as a complete RTD or thermocouple assembly customized to your process. 

The REOTEMP Model W includes linearized temperature measurement with TC and RTD sensors (Pt100 and Ni100) inputs, local display, HART communication, and 4-20 mA analog PV output for individual, difference, or average temperature measurement. It can handle two RTD or TC input sensors, and up to 63 transmitters (HART 7) can connect in a multidrop communication setup.

For more infomration about REOTEMP products in New England, contact PSI Controls / Piping Specialties, Inc. Call 800-223-1468 or visit https://psi-team.com.

Submersible Level Transmitters

AMETEK’s Submersible Level Transmitters are one of the most complete lines in the industry for measuring industrial and water/wastewater plant level. From the low cost Model SDT with a light weight 316 Stainless Steel body that can measures levels up to 345 feet, to the Model 575 and 675 with a 316 Stainless Steel body and Hastelloy diaphragm that can measure up to 690 feet with CSA intrinsically safe approval for hazardous locations, such as lift stations, process sludge tanks, AMETEK offers a series of different products to meet your level needs.

For more information in New England, contact PSI Controls or Piping Specialties. Call 800-223-1468 or visit https://psi-team.com.

The Reotemp TDS Pressure Transmitter and Switch With Display

The Reotemp TDS pressure transmitter and switch with display features include 0.25% accuracy, display, and electrical connections are independently rotatable 335°/343°, analog outputs switchable between 4-20ma or voltage, rugged construction, with protection from shock, over-range, and over-voltage. Additionally, the TSDS calibration range is adjustable and provides excellent long-term stability.

For more information on Reotemp products in New England, contact PSI Controls / Piping Specialties. Call 800-223-1468 or visit https://psi-team.com.

The AMETEK Drexelbrook Impulse Guided Wave Radar Level Transmitter

The Drexelbrook Impulse is a guided wave radar (TDR) that measures all liquids and slurries' overall level and other volumetric measures. When competitive water sensors fail, the Impulse continues to provide accurate values. 

The Drexelbrook Impulse is a two-wire guided wave radar that uses field-proven TDR level (Time Domain Reflectometry) technology to produce accurate Total Level, Distance, and Volumetric outputs on all liquids and slurries. 

The Impulse handles even the most challenging level measuring applications. It will continue to give dependable and accurate measurements even in the presence of disturbances such as agitated or uneven surfaces, foam, or probe coating. Changes in the density and dielectric characteristics, dusts, mist, and turbulence do not affect it. When other water level sensors fail, the Impulse continues to measure. 

This water level sensor is a perfect replacement for costly mechanical dispenser systems, with a wide range of probe types and material possibilities for various applications. 

This guided wave radar is simple to use for any user due to its simple navigation, push-button setups, and HART connections. It only takes a few minutes to install. Choose your level measuring type and language, and the Impulse is ready to use. 

The Impulse guided wave radar is intrinsically safe, explosion-proof, and non-incendive, and it does not require calibration or level changes.

Additionally, Drexelbrook recently introduced an enlarged coaxial sensor for The Impulse GWR. The new 1.66" (42mm) diameter probe provides reliable accuracy within high viscosity liquids. The new enlarged coaxial sensor option for The Impulse GWR allows the material to flow off the sensor easily when used with viscous fluids.

Piping Specialties / PSI Controls
https://psi-team.com
800-223-1468

Piping Specialties / PSI Controls - New England's Premier Valve and Instrumentation Source

Piping Specialties, Inc. was created in 1975 to provide industrial users in the Northeast with specialty valves and mechanical products and unsurpassed customer service. Piping Specialties' customer base and product offerings have grown steadily and sustainably over the years.  PSI Controls provides system design, sales, and service of process controls and instrumentation. PSI Controls offer a broad range of engineering expertise and experience in applying automated valves and process instrumentation in the most demanding applications.

Piping Specialties / PSI Controls

https://psi-team.com

800-223-1468

The CPV O-SEAL® Valve

CPV’s flagship O-SEAL® valves have been the industry’s standard-bearer for bubble-tight performance and robust longevity in high pressure applications. All O-SEAL® valves provide pressure ratings up to 6000 PSI, with an optional vacuum service available. They provide superior bubble-tight performance, even with elusive gases like hydrogen and helium, and are resistant to debris and seat damage. 

For more information about O-SEAL® valves in New England, contact Piping Specialties, Inc. Call them at 800-223-1468 or visit their website at https://psi-team.com.

Level Measurement for Water in Sewage Pools

This application takes place at a large power plant well known for its "Green Approach" and it's commitment to ensuring a clean and healthy atmosphere in and around the plant. 

The branched sewer system of the power plant requires instant maintenance and control. The plant uses water to operate the turbine. This water and other wastes move to the city’s wastewater treatment plant through the sewage system.

Some of the sewers are dispersed in remote locations around the plant, making it difficult for personal maintenance personnel to approach and repair damage on time. Plant technicians were looking for a solution to control the sewers better and avoid cases where wastewater might overflow. 

The sewage pool readings had to be transmitted to the central DCS because the sewage system connects to a central control room. The plant needed a 24/7 watch and an on-site guard to gain maximum control over those sewers. 

Technicians also stressed that wastewater flooding was inevitable because it takes time for the equipment to handle blockages. This flooding has caused severe damage to the environment. It was essential to control the wastewater level in the sewers to avoid cases such as these from reappearing. 

The Drexelbrook Usonic - The Solution 

After a lengthy examination of several possibilities, the plant decided to install two Drexelbrook USonic systems in its sewage pools. The ability of USonic to produce non-contact, continuous, and accurate readings of the water level in the pools gave the engineers of the plant a clear picture of the pools' status. 

Its compact size and integral construction simplify its installation, offering an efficient solution in no time at all. The USonic had no problem providing 12ft water level readings with a measurement range of up to 30 ft.  It can map obstacles in the pool and memorize interfering signals with its scan distance function. 

The USonic was linked to the central control system via 4-20mA, allowing the plant engineers to control the water level in the sewers constantly. The engineers know that the sewers would maintain the correct water level, and the system would be alerted in an emergency. 

Summary

The two USonic systems installed in the power plant give complete control over the sewers' water level to the plant's engineers. The systems' ability to display continuous level readings around the clock improved maintenance crews handle the sewage system.

To detect sudden blockages and avoid environmental damage on time, they can now save time. The plant received an immediate return on investment due to its compact size and reduced price.

Piping Specialties / PSI Controls

https://psi-team.com

800-223-1468

The Operation of the Cash Valve B Series, Type E-55, Type PBE-1, Type PBE-2, and Type PBE-5

Cash Valve is a leading manufacturer of pressure regulating and back pressure valves offering products for steam, air/gas, liquid, and cryogenic applications. Products range in size from 1/8" - 2" for threaded NPT connections and up through 6 inches for flanged configurations. Temperatures range between cryogenic up through 800°F, and materials of construction are offered with iron, brass, bronze, carbon and stainless steel depending on your application.

For more information about Cash Valve, contact Piping Specialties, Inc. by calling 800-223-1468 or by visiting their web site at https://psi-team.com. 

The Flow Safe F9000 "SurgeFlow" Liquid Surge Relief Valve

Liquid product pipelines must be protected from liquid surges. Surges are caused by pump failure, rapid block valve closing, non-return check valve hard-shutting, emergency shutdown of a tank or loading system, or even a pump coming on or tripping. The magnitude of surge pressures varies, some virtually undetectable to those severe enough to cause significant damage. These propagating waves, either increasing or decreasing rapidly, are commonly known as a transient hydraulic surge of water hammer that can cause severe damage to liquid product pipelines, vessels, flanges, valving, and associated equipment. 

The Flow Safe SurgeFlow series has been developed exclusively for liquid surge protection. These valves are extremely simple and 100% reliable. The dome cavity volume on top of the main valve piston is filled with nitrogen gas to affect the valve's proper set pressure. Dome gas pressure is set according to the characteristic piston seat-to-seal area ratio for the given valve size. This dome load forces the main valve into a closed position using a soft elastomer seat, providing a 100% tight shut-off. When surge pressure is sensed, the SurgeFlow valve piston opens immediately as the liquid fluid force acting under the piston overcomes the force from the dome gas working on the top. The piston continues to lift in proportion to the pressure surge, slightly compressing the dome gas. The closing cycle responds directly to pressure decay in the piping upstream of the SurgeFlow surge relief valve. 

SurgeFlow series valves are designed for accurate and repeatable performance. They will handle both minimum and maximum surge cases when called upon to relieve. Flow Safe suggests all surge relief valves be located nearest the point where maximum pressure can occur in the main pipeline for optimal safety purposes. 

For more information about Flow Safe products in New England, contact Piping Specialties. Call them at 800-223-1468, or visit their website at https://psi-team.com.

Sanitary Process Refractometers for Food, Beverage & Dairy Industries: The Vaisala K-PATENTS PR-43A

Vaisala K-PATENTS® PR-43A Models PR-43-AC, PR-43-AP, PR-43-APT

Vaisala K-PATENTS® Sanitary Process Refractometers PR-43-AC for hygienic installations in small pipe line sizes of 2.5 inch and smaller; PR-43-AP for hygienic installations in large pipes, tanks, cookers, crystallizers and kettles and for higher temperatures up to 150°C (300 °F); and the PR-43-APT for flush mounting installations in cookers, cooling crystallizers and other vessels that have scrapers or mixers.

Sanitary Refractometer Applications:

Extraction, evaporation, brewing, distilling, sugar dissolving, blending, filling. Alcohol, rum, whiskey, brandy, vodka, molasses, liquors, cider, alcoholic beverages, pre-mixed liquors. Beer and malt beverages, wort, cut beer, root beer. Juices, blended vegetable and fruit juices and nectars, still drinks, vegetable and juice concentrates, iced tea and coffee, instant coffee and tea. Soft drinks, energy and sport drinks, beverage base. Wines, grape must.

Sanitary Refractometer 3A Approval:

The Sanitary refractometer PR-43-A is Sanitary 3-A approved to meet the highest hygiene requirements of food production. The 3-A Symbol assures that the Sanitary Refractometer

PR-43-A conforms to 3-A Sanitary Standard Number 46-04 for Refractometers and Energy-Absorbing Optical Sensors for Milk and Milk Products and it has passed the independent Third Party Verification inspection for 3-A Symbol authorization.

For more information about Vaisala K-PATENTS products in New New England, contact Piping Specialties, Inc. / PSI Controls. Call them at 800-223-1468 or visit their web site at https://psi-team.com.

ARCA Control Valves in New England

ARCA develops, manufactures, and markets control valves on an international scale primarily for the chemical, food, power, and oil and natural gas industries.

High-performance control valves from ARCA are capable companions in industrial and large-scale power plants by ensuring safe and reliable operation and can be used in all high and low-pressure steam, oil, gas, water/boiler feedwater, and condensate circuits.

Oil and natural gas are the primary sources of energy driving the global economy. ARCA valves have helped ensure production and process reliability in the oil and natural gas industries for many years, and a wide variety of precision-engineered control valves are available that include DN15 (1/2) to DN600 (24") and PN16 to PN400 (ANSI 150-2500) sizes as well as special-purpose valves for all media handled in these areas.

ARCA valves are also indispensable in steel production. Steel production and processing require valves that offer ultra-high performance and a long service life.

Integrated in the bypass section of turbo-compressors, ARCA valves reliably carry out multiple tasks simultaneously by assisting during the start-up and shut-down phases of the compressor.

Concentrated Solar Power plants convert solar radiation into electrical energy. Systems that use  thermal oils as a heat-transfer medium produce temperatures that can reach 400 °C at approximately 40 bar in the solar array. Such applications integrate reliable ECOTROL® 6H high-pressure valves, which feature a bellows seal.

The BIOVENT® control valve developed for the food and pharmaceutical industry, for example, is available in many designs and connection layouts and with drives and positioners in stainless steel to cater to all applications.

For more information on ARCA Control Valves, contact Piping Specialties, Inc. Call them at 800-223-1468 or visit their web site at https://psi-team.com.

Setting Up and Calibrating the Drexelbrook MultiPoint II Level Switch

This video demonstrates how to calibrate and set the Drexelbrook MultiPoint II level switch.

The Drexelbrook Multipoint II level switch product offers three control points located anywhere along a single vertically inserted level sensing element. This level switch can be used to provide high level, high-high level, and low level control points. It also provides an adjustable differential feature for one of the control points for pump on/pump off control making it ideal for sump level control. It is designed to be intrinsically safe for Class I Groups A,B,C,D and Class II Groups E,F,G (Div. 1 and 2). The unit is mounted in FM approved explosion proof housing. The MultiPoint II has no moving parts and the need for maintenance is therefore eliminated. The Drexelbrook MultiPoint II is an economical solution for processes requiring multiple operating points.

For more information about level instrumentation, contact Piping Specialties, Inc. / PSI Controls by calling 800-223-1468 or visit their web site at https://psi-team.com.

Why Use LINK-SEAL®?

LINK-SEAL® is a modular elastomer sealing system that creates a permanent, hydrostatic seal for almost any cylindrical object as it traverses a barrier. The modular LINK-SEAL ® seals are the primary technique for sealing tubes of any size continuously through walls and ceilings. Indeed, any cylinder-shaped item can be secured against water, soil or backfill material rapidly, readily and permanently.

LINK-SEAL® FEATURE AND BENEFITS

• Install in up to 75% less time compared to lead-oakum joints, hand-fitted flashings, mastics, or casing boots.
• Rated at 20 psig (40ft of head), which exceeds the performance requirements of most applications.
• Designed for use as a permanent seal. Seal elements are specially compounded to resist aging and attack from ozone, sunlight, water, and a wide range of chemicals.
• Standard fasteners have a two-part zinc dichromate and proprietary corrosion inhibiting coating. Corrosion resistant 316 stainless steel available for maximum corrosion protection.
• NSF 61 and Factory Mutual Fire Approved materials available. Also carry a wide variety of approvals from various Federal agencies, associations, code groups, laboratories, and organizations.
• Manufactured in an ISO 9001certified facility.
• 16 sizes, color-coded EPDM, Nitrile, and Silicone elastomers may be used with various hardware options to match performance characteristics with service conditions.

LINK-SEAL® SPECIFICATIONS

• Pressure resistant to 20psig (40 ft of head)
• Standard  — EPDM – rubber (black)
• Oil Resistant — Nitrile rubber (green)
• Temperature resistant — Silicone rubber (gray)
• Low Durometer for fragile pipe — EPDM rubber (blue) Shore 40 ± 5
• Hardware Options - S316 Stainless Steel and Zinc Dichromate Coated Steel (1470 hr salt spray tested) hardware

LINK-SEAL® APPLICATIONS

Mechanical Contractors - Interior Piping Systems, Manhole Pipe Entry Seals, Waste Treatment Plants, Cased Road Crossings, Thermal Storage Systems, Fire Protection Wall Penetrations, Cased Railroad Crossings, Electrical Isolation of Pipes, Precast Concrete Vault Seals, Insulated Pipe Seals, Dual Containment Seals, Marine Applications, Noise Dampening, Flexible Sign & Pole Supports, Electrical Isolation of Pipe Supports, Mining, Pulp & Paper, Decorative Fountains, Pool Contractors, Electrical Contractors, Waste & Water Treatment, Telecommunications, Valve Pits, Refrigeration Buildings, Guard Post Assemblies, Power Generation Dams, Offshore Oil Rigs, High Pressure Tank Guards, Underground Steel Tanks, Precast Concrete Manufacturers, Perimeter Berm Installations Around Tank Farms, Flow Restrictions in Sewer Maintenance, Fluid Overflow Devices, Noise and Sway Dampener, Through Deck Fire Breaks, Bridge Construction, Septic Tank Installations, Coal Preparation Plants, Tunneling Operations.

For more information on LINK-SEAL® modular wall seals, contact Piping Specialties, Inc. Call them at 800-223-1468 or visit their web site at https://psi-team.com.

Mounting and Adjusting a Rack & Pinion Actuator

A-T Controls is a global leader in the design, manufacturing and sale of manual & automated process valves for all types of industries.

This video details the steps required to mount and adjust a TRIAC rack and pinion actuator to an AT Controls ball valve.

Piping Specialties sells, services, and automates A-T Controls valves and TRIAC actuators in New England.

For more information, contact Piping Specialties by calling 800-223-1468 or visiting https://psi-team.com.

Instructional Video: Inserting K-Patents Generation 2.1 SAFE-DRIVE™ Process Refractometer PR-23-SD

This video is intended for individuals installing, commissioning, operating, and/ or servicing the K-Patents Safe-DriveTM Process Refractometer PR-23-SD, generation 2 model. The purpose of this video is to provide a quick guide for the above mentioned tasks in the form of K-Patents recommended best practices.

K-Patents SAFE-DRIVE™ design allows for safe and easy insertion and retraction of the sensor under full operating pressure without having to shut down the process.

Below the video is the document "Best Practices for the Safe-DriveTM Process Refractometer PR-23-SD Generation 2" for your convenience.

For more information, visit http://www.psi-team.com or call 800-223-1468.

VIDEO

DOCUMENT

Best Practices: K-Patents Generation 2.1 SAFE-DRIVE™ Process Refractometer PR-23-SD from Piping Specialties, Inc and PSI Controls

Magnetic Flowmeters: Principles and Applications

Magnetic Flowmeter (Azbil)

Crucial aspects of process control include the ability to accurately determine qualities and quantities of materials. In terms of appraising and working with fluids (such as liquids, steam, and gases) the flowmeter is a staple tool, with the simple goal of expressing the delivery of a subject fluid in a quantified manner. Measurement of media flow velocity can be used, along with other conditions, to determine volumetric or mass flow. The magnetic flowmeter, also called a magmeter, is one of several technologies used to measure fluid flow.

In general, magnetic flowmeters are sturdy, reliable devices able to withstand hazardous environments while returning precise measurements to operators of a wide variety of processes. The magnetic flowmeter has no moving parts. The operational principle of the device is powered by Faraday's Law, a fundamental scientific understanding which states that a voltage will be induced across any conductor moving at a right angle through a magnetic field, with the voltage being proportional to the velocity of the conductor. The principle allows for an inherently hard-to-measure quality of a substance to be expressed via the magmeter. In a magmeter application, the meter produces the magnetic field referred to in Faraday's Law. The conductor is the fluid. The actual measurement of a magnetic flowmeter is the induced voltage corresponding to fluid velocity. This can be used to determine volumetric flow and mass flow when combined with other measurements.

The magnetic flowmeter technology is not impacted by temperature, pressure, or density of the subject fluid. It is however, necessary to fill the entire cross section of the pipe in order to derive useful volumetric flow measurements. Faraday's Law relies on conductivity, so the fluid being measured has to be electrically conductive. Many hydrocarbons are not sufficiently conductive for a flow measurement using this method, nor are gases.

Magmeters apply Faraday's law by using two charged magnetic coils; fluid passes through the magnetic field produced by the coils. A precise measurement of the voltage generated in the fluid will be proportional to fluid velocity. The relationship between voltage and flow is theoretically a linear expression, yet some outside factors may present barriers and complications in the interaction of the instrument with the subject fluid. These complications include a higher amount of voltage in the liquid being processed, and coupling issues between the signal circuit, power source, and/or connective leads of both an inductive and capacitive nature.

In addition to salient factors such as price, accuracy, ease of use, and the size-scale of the flowmeter in relation to the fluid system, there are multiple reasons why magmeters are the unit of choice for certain applications. They are resistant to corrosion, and can provide accurate measurement of dirty fluids ' making them suitable for wastewater measurement. As mentioned, there are no moving parts in a magmeter, keeping maintenance to a minimum. Power requirements are also low. Instruments are available in a wide range of configurations, sizes, and construction materials to accommodate various process installation requirements.

As with all process measurement instruments, proper selection, configuration, and installation are the real keys to a successful project. Share your flow measurement challenges of all types with a process measurement specialist, combining your process knowledge with their product application expertise to develop an effective solution.

Understanding Guided Wave Radar Level Instruments

Guided Wave Radar (GWR)
level transmitter (Drexelbrook)

One of several technologies used for level measurement in process control is guided wave radar. A Guided Wave Radar (GWR) level transmitter combines time domain reflectometry (TDR), equivalent time sampling (ETS), and low power circuitry with a form factor that includes a wave guide extending into the contained media. TDR measures distance or level using pulses of electromagnetic energy. The pulse travels along the waveguide until it reaches the media surface and is reflected back to the unit. The speed of the pulse is known, so an accurate measure of the travel time for the signal can be processed into a distance measurement. Different media will produce a range of amplitude in the reflection, with a greater dielectric difference between air and target medium producing higher amplitude in the reflection. Industries, such as telephone, computer, and power transmission, have relied on TDR for years in order to detect and pinpoint breaks in wires or cables, making the technology more mature than it may appear by its limited timeline in level measurement applications.

ETS is used to measure the high speed, low power electromagnetic energy, and is typical when applying TDR to level measurement technology, where the signal travel distance and time are very short. The electromagnetic signals are captured by the ETS technology in nanoseconds, and are then reconstructed in the equivalent time of milliseconds. The radar scans the waveguide, collecting thousands of samples to be used in signal processing. Integrating both technologies into a single level transmitter yields an accurate and responsive instrument for process measurement.

GWR instrumentation is useful in the process control industry for its ability to measure levels in a quick, consistent way. GWR transmitters are contact radar level measurement tools, as opposed to pulsed non-contact radar transmitters that emit radar pulses through free air without a waveguide. Probes, inserted into the subject tank or vessel, serve as the waveguide for the pulsed signal. They guide the pulsed microwave vertically into the tank, providing a measure of immunity from disturbance by the tank and surrounding media. Guided wave radar technology differs from non-contact radar in a number of ways. The presence or absence of a probe is only one of them.

GWR level transmitters are used in process measurement applications throughout many industries, such as food and beverage. Tanks, pumps, and piping systems for both storage and transport can utilize GWR to continuously monitor levels. Other vessels, such as reduction, forming, mixing, heating, cooking, and cooling, can utilize GWR for similar reasons. Additionally, other stages of food and beverage manufacturing, such as centrifugation and decontamination, can be good fits for GWR technology. Guided wave radarís previous applicability in industries aside from liquid processing and implementation in a wide range of process settings show the flexibility and reliability of GWR technology.

Selecting the best level measurement technology for an application can be a challenge. Share your project requirements and concerns with a process instrumentation specialist, combining your own process knowledge and experience with their product application expertise to develop effective solutions.