AMETEK BrightTEK™ Groundbreaking IIoT Solution for Remote Wireless Connectivity

BrightTEK™, which promises to transform the landscape of remote monitoring and data processing in industrial settings. This innovative technology connects a wide array of level measurement sensors from renowned brands such as Magnetrol®, Orion Instruments®, Drexelbrook®, SWI®, and B/W Controls to the cloud-enabled BrightTEK™ web server, ushering in a new era of real-time data monitoring and system management.

The heart of the BrightTEK™ system lies in its user-friendly, web-based platform. This intuitive interface provides instantaneous insights into crucial process variables, including tank levels, temperature, and location data. By offering real-time access to this vital information, BrightTEK™ empowers industrial operators to make informed decisions quickly and efficiently, potentially reducing downtime and optimizing operations.

AMETEK® has introduced two cutting-edge uplink options to cater to diverse industrial needs. The ST95 Cellular Uplink is a battery-powered solution that can power and monitor sensors in remote locations without requiring wired connections. This versatile device supports up to two 4-20mA sensors and works seamlessly with both AT&T® and Verizon® cellular services, ensuring broad coverage across various industrial sites.

For applications requiring even greater range and flexibility, AMETEK® offers the ST95 Satellite Uplink Host. This solar-powered cellular uplink takes remote monitoring to new heights by utilizing the Iridium Satellite Network. This feature eliminates cellular service, making it ideal for highly remote or challenging environments. The ST95 Satellite Uplink Host can support up to six ST95 clients, providing a comprehensive monitoring solution for non-hazardous area installations.

The ST90 AC Powered Host presents an excellent option in scenarios where AC power is readily available. This robust device can power and communicate with up to 32 4-20mA sensors, making it suitable for various industrial applications. The ST90 shares many of the advanced features of the ST95 while offering these capabilities in a compact and rugged design.

BrightTEK's key features include head telemetry and 4-20 mA inputs, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of sensors and existing industrial equipment. AMETEK® offers a prewired 50-foot cable option for hazardous locations, enhancing safety and ease of installation. The system also connects pre-existing wiring or junction boxes, facilitating integration with established infrastructure.

Users can configure BrightTEK™ to transmit data at preset time intervals or request information manually, providing flexibility in data collection and monitoring strategies. The system's reliable radio communication, which is compatible with AT&T and Verizon networks, ensures consistent connectivity. Additionally, integrated GPS and temperature sensors provide valuable context to the collected data.

While BrightTEK™ represents a significant leap forward in IIoT technology for industrial monitoring, it's important to note that the system is currently available exclusively in the North American market. This regional focus allows AMETEK® to refine and optimize the technology for the specific needs of North American industries.

As industries continue to embrace digital transformation, solutions like BrightTEK™ by AMETEK® will be crucial in enhancing efficiency, safety, and productivity. BrightTEK™ empowers businesses to make data-driven decisions, optimize their operations, and stay competitive in an increasingly connected industrial landscape by providing real-time, remote access to critical process data.

For more information about BrightTEK™ in New England, contact PSI Controls Division of Piping Systems, Inc. Call 800-223-1468 or visit https://psi-team.com.

Pressure Drop Characteristics Across Different Industrial Valve Types

Pressure drop significantly affects the design and operation of industrial valve systems. It refers to the reduction in pressure as fluid flows through a valve. Several factors influence this phenomenon, including valve type, flow rate, fluid properties, and valve geometry. Understanding pressure drop ensures efficient and safe operation of fluid systems. Here’s a detailed description of the pressure drop as it applies to various types of industrial valves:

Ball Valves

Ball valves offer simplicity, durability, and tight seals in industrial applications. The valve uses a spherical ball with a hole through the middle, aligning with the pipeline to allow or block flow.

Pressure Drop Characteristics:

• Low Pressure Drop: Fully open ball valves exhibit a low pressure drop due to their straight and unobstructed flow path. The smooth, rounded interior of the ball minimizes turbulence and resistance.
• Impact of Partial Opening: Partially open ball valves significantly increase pressure drop. The fluid navigates around the partially obstructed path, creating turbulence and resistance.
• Valve Size and Flow Rate: Larger ball valves and higher flow rates reduce the relative pressure drop, but designers must consider potential cavitation and erosion.

Gate Valves

Gate valves primarily control on/off flow in a pipeline. They consist of a gate (or wedge) that moves up and down to start or stop the flow.

Pressure Drop Characteristics:

• Minimal Pressure Drop when Fully Open: Fully open gate valves exhibit very low pressure drops because the gate remains entirely out of the flow path, allowing fluid to pass with minimal resistance.
• High Pressure Drop during Partial Operation: Partially open gate valves significantly increase turbulence and pressure drop, making them unsuitable for throttling applications.
• Design and Maintenance: When open, a straight-through flow path minimizes pressure drop, but over time, wear and tear on the gate and seat can impact performance and increase pressure drop.

Globe Valves

Globe valves excel at regulating flow and are used in applications requiring precise flow control. They consist of a movable disk-type element and a stationary ring seat in a spherical body.

Pressure Drop Characteristics:

• Higher Pressure Drop: Globe valves inherently exhibit higher pressure drops than ball and gate valves due to the fluid changing direction as it passes through the valve. The tortuous path creates more resistance.
• Flow Control: Globe valve design makes them ideal for throttling and precise flow control, but this advantage comes with higher pressure drops.
• Valve Position: The valve opening degree significantly affects the pressure drop. Partial opening creates more resistance and higher pressure drops due to increased turbulence.

Butterfly Valves

Butterfly valves control flow using a rotating disc. They are commonly used in applications requiring quick shut-off and suit large-diameter pipes.

Pressure Drop Characteristics:

• Moderate Pressure Drop: Fully open butterfly valves exhibit moderate pressure drops because the disc remains in the flow path even when rotated to the open position, creating some obstruction and turbulence.
• Variable Pressure Drop: The pressure drop increases as the valve moves towards the closed position. The partially obstructed disc increases flow resistance and turbulence.
• Efficiency and Application: Butterfly valves efficiently handle large volumes of flow with moderate pressure drops. They are often used in water distribution, HVAC systems, and various industrial applications where space and weight considerations matter.

Factors Influencing Pressure Drop Across Valves

Several factors influence pressure drop across industrial valves:

1. Valve Design: Internal valve geometry, including the flow path and obstructions, plays a significant role.
2. Flow Rate: Higher flow rates generally increase pressure drop due to greater frictional forces.
3. Fluid Properties: Fluid viscosity and density affect how they interact with valve surfaces.
4. Valve Size: Larger valves typically exhibit lower pressure drops for a given flow rate than smaller valves.
5. Operational Conditions: Valve position (fully open, partially open, or closed) significantly affects pressure drop.

Understanding these characteristics helps select the appropriate valve for specific applications, ensuring efficient and safe operation while maintaining desired flow control and minimizing energy losses.

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

From Food Processing to HVAC: The Versatile Applications of Industrial Bi-Metal Thermometers

The industrial bi-metal thermometer ensures the smooth operation and safety of various industrial and commercial processes. This versatile temperature measuring device has proven its value time and time again, thanks to its robust construction, reliable performance, and wide range of applications. The importance of the bi-metal thermometer is proven, as it provides accurate temperature readings for maintaining optimal conditions in numerous settings.

One of the primary advantages of the industrial bimetal thermometer is its durability. Bimetal thermometers use high-quality materials and can withstand harsh environments and extreme temperatures, making them ideal for use in demanding industrial settings. The rugged design ensures that the thermometer remains accurate and functional despite vibrations, shocks, and other potentially damaging factors. This durability translates to long-term reliability, reducing the need for frequent replacements and minimizing downtime.

Accuracy is another key aspect that highlights the value of industrial bi-metal thermometers. These devices utilize the principle of thermal expansion, where two dissimilar metals with different coefficients of thermal expansion are bonded together. As the temperature changes, the bi-metal strip coils or uncoils, causing the pointer to move and indicate the corresponding temperature on a calibrated scale. This simple yet effective mechanism allows for precise temperature measurements, typically within a tolerance of ±1% of the full scale. Accurate temperature readings are critical in industries such as food processing, chemical manufacturing, and HVAC systems, where even slight deviations can lead to product quality issues or safety hazards. With our industrial bi-metal thermometers, you can be reassured of the precision of your temperature measurements, ensuring the safety and quality of your processes.

The versatility of industrial bi-metal thermometers further emphasizes their importance. These thermometers come in a wide range of sizes, stem lengths, and temperature ranges, making them suitable for a diverse array of applications. Whether it's monitoring the temperature of a storage tank, ensuring proper heat treatment of materials, or controlling the temperature of a refrigeration system, bi-metal thermometers can be easily integrated into various processes. They can be installed in thermowells, which protect the thermometer stem and allow for easy replacement without interrupting the process. Additionally, bi-metal thermometers are available with different mounting options, such as back-connected, bottom-connected, or adjustable angle, enabling flexibility in installation and positioning. With our industrial bi-metal thermometers, you have the power to adapt to any temperature monitoring needs, enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of your operations.

Industrial bi-metal thermometers also offer excellent readability, essential for quick and accurate temperature monitoring. The clear, easy-to-read dial face features bold graduation marks and numbers, allowing operators to discern the temperature at a glance easily. Some models even incorporate a magnifying lens or a red pointer for enhanced visibility. Quickly and accurately reading temperature values contributes to efficient process control and timely decision-making.

REOTEMP, a leading manufacturer of temperature measurement instruments, offers a comprehensive range of industrial bi-metal thermometers designed to meet the demanding requirements of various industries. With a commitment to quality and reliability, REOTEMP's bi-metal thermometers are constructed using premium materials and undergo rigorous testing to ensure accuracy and durability. Their extensive product line includes thermometers suitable for a wide range of temperature spans, stem lengths, and mounting configurations, catering to the specific needs of different applications. Whether for food processing, chemical manufacturing, or HVAC systems, REOTEMP's bi-metal thermometers provide accurate and dependable temperature measurements, making them a trusted choice for industrial and commercial users.

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

Point and Continuous Level Sensors in Food Processing: Ensuring Quality, Safety, and Efficiency

Maintaining precise control over ingredient levels and product quantities in the food processing industry is crucial for ensuring consistent quality, safety, and efficiency. Point and continuous-level sensors play a vital role in achieving these goals by providing accurate measurements and real-time monitoring of various substances throughout production. These sensors find applications in inventory management, overfill protection, waste management, and regulatory control.

When selecting level sensors for food processing applications, it is essential to consider the importance of 3A-certified probes. The 3A Sanitary Standards, developed by the 3-A Sanitary Standards, Inc., set strict guidelines for the design and materials used in equipment that comes into direct contact with food products. By choosing 3A-certified probes, food processors can ensure that their level sensors meet the highest standards of hygiene and cleanability, preventing contamination and ensuring the safety of the final product.

Level control sensors are invaluable tools for inventory management in food processing facilities. By continuously monitoring the levels of ingredients, such as liquids, powders, and solids, in storage tanks and silos, these sensors provide real-time data that helps optimize stock levels and prevent shortages. This information enables food processors to streamline their supply chain, reduce waste, and minimize production downtime caused by insufficient raw materials.

Overfill protection is another critical application of level sensors in food processing. By installing point-level sensors at strategic locations within storage vessels and processing tanks, food processors can detect when the product level reaches a predetermined maximum threshold. These sensors trigger alarms or automatically shut off filling processes, preventing costly and potentially hazardous spills. Overfill protection safeguards against product loss and helps maintain a safe working environment for employees.

Level sensors also contribute to food processing facilities' effective waste management and regulatory control. By accurately monitoring the levels of waste products, such as wastewater or byproducts, food processors can ensure that these substances are correctly handled and disposed of in compliance with environmental regulations. Additionally, level sensors can help food processors meet stringent food safety regulations by precisely measuring ingredient quantities and ensuring that products meet the required specifications.

In conclusion, point and continuous level sensors are indispensable tools in the food processing industry, enabling manufacturers to maintain the highest quality, safety, and efficiency standards. By utilizing 3A-certified probes, implementing level control for inventory management, and leveraging level sensors for overfill protection, waste management, and regulatory power, food processors can optimize their operations and deliver consistently superior products to consumers.

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

Piping Specialties, Inc. - Leading the Way in Industrial Valve Solutions in New England

For decades, Piping Specialties, Inc. has carved out a prestigious position as one of New England's top industrial valve suppliers. Their journey reflects a commitment to excellence, offering various superior industrial valves, automated valve packages, and custom valve specification services accompanied by unrivaled application support. They are a beacon of quality and innovation in the industrial valve market.

New England, with its vibrant mix of industrial sectors such as pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, energy, marine, and manufacturing, demands high-quality, specialized equipment to maintain high standards of efficiency and safety. Piping Specialties shines here, expertly navigating the unique challenges of these diverse sectors and delivering tailor-made solutions that surpass expectations. They stock an extensive range of top-notch valves and automated valve packages, ensuring that every industry finds what it needs for its specific operations.

The outstanding sales engineering support is the cornerstone of Piping Specialties' unmatched service. The company excels not merely in selling products but in crafting solutions. Their seasoned sales engineers engage closely with clients across various industries, guiding the selection process to post-sales support. This holistic service approach ensures that clients receive the finest products and the proper application and integration advice, leading to enhanced efficiency, safety, and cost savings in their operations.

Understanding the critical nature of industrial processes, Piping Specialties offers meticulous valve specification services. This vital service ensures clients pick the ideal valves that align with their operational needs and comply with industry standards. Such meticulous attention to detail is crucial for sectors with strict regulations and high safety requirements, guaranteeing that all equipment meets necessary guidelines and performs flawlessly under diverse conditions.

Piping Specialties extends its commitment to superior service beyond mere product sales. They provide comprehensive application support, including troubleshooting, technical guidance, and on-site assistance. This unparalleled support is essential in reducing downtime, boosting productivity, and ensuring that industrial processes operate smoothly and efficiently.

As the industrial landscape of New England continues to evolve, Piping Specialties remains ahead of the curve, embracing changes and introducing cutting-edge solutions. Their commitment to innovation, combined with extensive expertise in valve technology, establishes them as the preferred partner for many of the region's leading industrial entities.

The company's deep understanding of the multifaceted challenges faced by different industries enables it to offer products and complete solutions that enhance overall operational effectiveness. Whether a pharmaceutical firm needs precise process control, an energy provider looking for reliable critical application equipment, or a marine operation seeking sturdy and robust valves, Piping Specialties delivers expertise and products that meet these requirements.

Piping Specialties, Inc. is more than a supplier; they are a trusted partner. Their longstanding experience and a broad spectrum of products and services solidify their status as New England's premier industrial valve supplier. The company's dedication to delivering high-level sales engineering services, application support, and technical know-how has secured the trust and loyalty of customers across the region's leading industrial sectors. Piping Specialties, Inc. is the definitive source for all industrial valve needs, continuously proving its commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction. They not only set the standard in the industrial valve market but constantly raise the bar, ensuring that they are always the first choice for businesses throughout New England.

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

Advanced Valve Assemblies for Liquid and Gas Venting and Safety Shut-Off Operations

FM classes 7400, 7412, 7420, and 7422 are standards and certifications established by FM Global, a large insurance company emphasizing loss prevention services. Each class specifies particular requirements for equipment and systems used in industrial and commercial settings. These classifications are part of FM Global's comprehensive approach to ensuring safety and reliability in equipment and systems related to fire protection and risk reduction.

A-T Controls manufactures FM-approved valve assemblies for liquid and gas vents and safety shut-off requirements. These valve assemblies have received FM approval, certifying their suitability for applications that demand protective measures for fuel-burning equipment by FM classes 7400, 7412, 7420, and 7422. Each assembly comprises a spring return automated ball valve, an explosion-proof limit switch, and a solenoid pilot valve. Customers can choose from two designs for the valves: a 3-piece design, which offers options for threaded, socket weld, or butt weld end connections, and a flanged design, available in ASME Class 150 and 300. These valves come in sizes from 1/4 inch to 6 inches. The assemblies are at the forefront of quarter-turn automation technology, featuring a rack and pinion actuator. In synergy with the assembly's superior valve seating and stem seal design, this actuator ensures reliable and consistent closure and venting as required. These assemblies offer a compact, efficient solution for fuel gas safety shut-off or venting systems.

For more information, contact Piping Specialties, Inc., a premier New England-based company specializing in the specification and support of industrial valves. At the heart of their expertise lies a deep understanding of valves, which are crucial to ensuring industrial safety and operational efficiency. PSI is a team of seasoned professionals who excel in selecting the most suitable valves for various industrial applications. From initial consultation and specification to after-sales service, PSI ensures every valve operates at its best, safeguarding processes and personnel.

Piping Specialties, Inc. is a trusted ally committed to delivering excellence in industrial valves in an industry where precision and dependability are non-negotiable.

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

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