Indicator offers range of process monitoring displays
A new family of 4-20 ma indicator units promises accurate visual display of process parameters such as tank contents, level, or pressure. Available in programmable and nonprogrammable versions to suit a range of applications, the new GEN indicators are reliable, versatile, and robust, the company says.
The range consists of a programmable indicator GEN4000U, a loop powered field indicator GEN400, and a panel mounted version GEN420. They are all compatible with standard industrial 4-20 ma sensors, and feature bright, easy to read displays.
Source: KDG Instruments, Crompton Way, Crawley, West Sussex, RH10 2YZ, U.K.
Intrinsically safe remote heat sensor
A new, intrinsically safe hand held device locates sources of heat.
The HotSpotter can be used in hazardous oil field atmospheres. Using infrared heat detection technology, it enables the user to scan an area to find any hot spots such as overheating bearings or junction boxes. It incorporates visual and audible signals.
The gun sight and operating trigger enable the sensitive Fresnel lens to target and scan the area in question. It sees infrared from a cone around 7° either side of its axis-which means that at 10 ft it scans a disk of about 30 in. diameter. The sensor signal is converted into sounds and lights by a microprocessor; the higher the frequency, the hotter the spot. The LEDs also provide an indication of how hot the object in the HotSpotter's sight is. They light up in sequence: green, amber, and red.
There are four operating modes depending on the sensitivity of operation required. The unit's microchip memory provides a compare function enabling the user to look at the temperature of one object and compare it with another. For example, it can establish whether one roller bearing is hotter than another or if an electrical relay is running hotter than another.
Source: Product Innovation Holdings Ltd., Mill Studio, Crane Mead, Ware, Herts. SG12 9PY, U.K.
New ultrasonic stress meter
The new USM-1 electronic stress meter is designed to measure the clamp load produced by tightening a bolt or threaded fastener. Using ultrasonic technology, the company says its product will set the standard for applications where the clamping force must be monitored over the service life of the bolt or where the measurement of applied torque alone cannot obtain the required accuracy.
The meter can precisely measure the load, tensile strength, or elongation in fasteners of almost any material from 2.5 mm to 6,000 mm in length. The display unit is 19.7 by 12.7 by 27.9 cm and uses digital signal processing and automated diagnostics to simplify setup and reduce the need for operator training. It is also able to record data and transmit it via an RS232 output. This and the calibrated analog signal output help make it a complete system for measurement, recording, and control of fastener tension.
The unit weighs just over 3 kg and has a sealed membrane keypad and screen for reliable operation in all situations. It will operate in ambient temperatures of 0-40° C. and has automatic compensation for the temperature of the fastener. There is also automatic verification of the fastener material calibration constants.
Source: Norbar Torque Tools Ltd., Beaumont Rd., Banbury, Oxon, OX16, 7XJ, U.K.
Updated natural gas standards software
Version 1.4 is the latest of the standards developed for companies involved in buying and selling natural gas. This software version includes standards designed to facilitate gas transactions carried out through the worldwide web.
Source: Gas Industry Standards Board, 1100 Louisiana, Suite 4925, Houston, TX 77002.
