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Last updateSun, 04 Feb 2024 4am

Yokogawa adds Explosion-Proof Version of TDLS8200 Probe

Yokogawa Electric Corporation has announced that it has developed an explosion-proof version of the TDLS8200 probe type tunable diode laser spectrometer and will release it for sale on July 25 as part of its OpreXTM Analyzer family. The TDLS8200 features low installation cost, high measurement stability, and high reliability, and is able to simultaneously and directly measure concentrations of two gas types (oxygen plus either carbon monoxide or methane) at high speed. Currently on offer are types that are capable of measuring temperatures up to 600°C and 850°C, and the addition of an explosion-proof version makes it possible to facilitate efficient combustion control and safe operation across a broader range of applications.

Any excess air that is supplied when controlling combustion in a heating furnace will absorb heat inside the furnace before exiting via the stack. In addition to resulting in heat loss, this can generate large volumes of nitrogen oxides and sulfur oxides, a source of air pollution. On the other hand, if insufficient air is supplied, complete combustion will not occur, resulting in energy loss, the emission of carbon monoxide and black smoke, and residual methane. Carbon monoxide and methane are flammable gases that can readily form an explosive mixture with air if allowed to accumulate inside a furnace.

As such, oil & gas, petrochemical, electric power, iron and steel, and ceramics plants need to monitor the concentrations of oxygen and carbon monoxide or methane inside furnaces in order to control and thereby ensure an efficient, environmentally friendly, and safe combustion process. However, the use of digital devices in zones where combustible gases reach concentrations that result in the risk of an explosion is limited by regional laws and regulations as they have the potential to ignite such gases. To address this need, Yokogawa has developed this latest version of the TDLS8200 probe type tunable diode laser spectrometer.

The most significant feature of the TDLS8200 is its dual laser light sources and optics, which give it the ability to simultaneously measure oxygen plus either carbon monoxide or methane concentrations for combustion control. Its direct measurement system relies on the use of lasers, which are easier to maintain than conventional sampling systems and are more robust than catalyst-based sensors. This ensures stable, simultaneous, and lossless measurement. Also, by adopting a probe design with no sampling device, it is easy to install and replace.

The explosion-proof TDLS8200 that is being released for sale conforms to the IECEx explosion-proof standard of the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), the FM explosion-proof standards of the United States and Canada, and the EU’s ATEX explosion-proof directives. Compliance with these regulations enables the device to be used in zones where combustible gases reach concentrations that result in the risk of an explosion. Going forward, Yokogawa will work toward acquiring certification for the explosion-proof standards of other regions and countries too.


ABB and Red Hat partner to deliver further scalable Digital Solutions across Industrial Edge and Hybrid Cloud

ABB and Red Hat have announced a global partnership to enable industries using ABB’s process automation and industrial software to scale rapidly and flexibly leveraging Red Hat’s industry leading enterprise platforms and application services built on Red Hat Enterprise Linux.

The collection, management and analysis of industrial plant data is critical to improve the efficiency of operations while addressing safety, security and productivity needs. This is consistent with ABB’s strategy for the evolution of process automation.

The partnership enables virtualization and containerization of automation software with Red Hat OpenShift to provide advanced flexibility in hardware deployment, optimized according to application needs. It also provides efficient system orchestration, enabling real-time, data-based decision making at the edge and further processing in the cloud.

Red Hat OpenShift, the industry’s leading enterprise Kubernetes platform, with Red Hat Enterprise Linux as its foundation, provides ABB with a single consistent application platform, from small single node systems to scaled-out hyperconverged clusters at the industrial edge, which simplifies development and management efforts for ABB’s customers.

“This exciting partnership with Red Hat demonstrates ABB’s commitment to meet customer needs by seeking alliances with other innovative market leaders,” said Bernhard Eschermann, Chief Technology Officer, ABB Process Automation. “The alliance with Red Hat will see ABB continue helping our customers improve their operations as they navigate a rapidly evolving digital landscape. It will give them access to the tools they need to integrate plantwide IT and OT, while reducing risks and optimizing performance.”

Red Hat OpenShift increases the deployment flexibility and scalability of ABB Ability™ Edgenius, a comprehensive edge platform for industrial software applications, together with ABB Ability™ Genix Industrial Analytics and AI Suite, an enterprise-grade platform and applications suite that leverages industrial AI to drive Industry 4.0 digital business outcomes for customers. ABB’s Edgenius and Genix can both be scaled seamlessly and securely across multiple deployments. With this partnership, ABB will have access to capabilities like zero-touch provisioning (remote configuration of networks) which can increase manageability and consistency across plant environments.

Emerson’s New Valves for Hydrogen Fueling Stations Features Maintenance, Safety and Reduced Leakage

Emerson has launched the TESCOM™ Anderson Greenwood Instrumentation H2 Valve Series for hydrogen applications up to 15,000 pounds-per-square-inch (psi) (103.4 megapascal (MPa)). The new solution reliably isolates process pressure in high pressure gas applications such as hydrogen fueling stations and tube trailers, reducing fugitive emissions and improving safety.

As it moves from tank to pump, hydrogen is transferred at pressures of up to 15,000 psi (103.4 MPa). To protect personnel and prevent leaks, it must be effectively controlled and isolated. The Double Block Bleed (DBB) valve’s positive double block arrangement provides two layers of positive shutoff that shield maintenance staff from high pressure during instrument maintenance. Its modular design reduces the number of potential leakage points, and the reinforced sealing technology reduces the risk of fuel entering the atmosphere through the valve stem.

Among the cleanest fuels when produced using renewable resources, compressed hydrogen gas is used to power fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs). In 2021, 142 new hydrogen refueling stations began operating, the biggest increase in a single year, raising the total to 685 active stations worldwide. And, in January 2022, Global Market Insights Inc. predicted that the FCEV market will exceed $15 billion by 2027. To meet this growth demand, fueling station original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) must source reliable, high-performance components to ensure overall equipment effectiveness and ensure station safety.

“Given the pressures that hydrogen is subject to in these applications, it’s critical that equipment operates safely and reliably, every time. That’s why we’re committed to specifically developing components to help our customers effectively store and precisely control compressed hydrogen gas,” said Rob Lindquist, director of global marketing for TESCOM precision fluid control at Emerson.

The hand-operated, maintenance-free design of the hand valves and double block and bleed valves in the H2 Valve Series minimizes maintenance and downtime. With low operating torque and adjustment-free seal technology, these hand valves deliver a low cost of ownership in a compact solution.

For more information, visit www.Emerson.com/TESCOM

ABB opens Global Innovation and Training Campus for Machine Automation at B&R in Austria

ABB has opened its new global innovation and training campus at the headquarters of B&R in Eggelsberg, Austria, its global center for machine and factory automation. The new campus will create up to 1,000 additional high-tech jobs and includes world-class research and development laboratories, as well as global training facilities for up to 4,000 people per year in collaboration with universities. ABB invested EUR 100 million in the expansion of the B&R headquarters.

Campus innovations around artificial intelligence and machine and factory automation will play an essential role in unlocking the potential of future industrial production – in sectors such as electronics, e-mobility, food and beverage, recycling, logistics, or agriculture. They will increase productivity and flexibility, helping customers become more sustainable and produce closer to their end markets.

ABB CEO Björn Rosengren said: "Innovation has been in ABB’s DNA for more than 130 years and our division, B&R, is a true innovation hot-spot for the transformation towards more automated manufacturing. The official opening of this campus is a proud moment for our ABB as we create highly-skilled jobs while shaping the machines and factories of the future together with our customers.”

 

 

A hub for integrated production, research, and training in central Europe

The new campus expands the total area of B&R's headquarters to more than 100,000 m², making B&R one of the largest sites for integrated production, research, and training in central Europe, with currently around 2,400 employees. The expansion will also free up space which will serve as additional production capacity to meet increasing demand for B&R products.

Austria's Chancellor Karl Nehammer thanked ABB for an important initiative: “Investments in our business location are always also investments in the future of Austria. The corona pandemic, disruptions in global supply chains and now the war in Ukraine clearly remind us that we need to become more independent if we want to be better prepared for future challenges. I am therefore pleased that ABB is taking an important step in bringing manufacturing back home with the opening of its new innovation and training campus. The new campus will not only be a driver for digitalisation and automation, but also will create jobs and contribute to prosperity in Austria.”

PowerFlex 755TS AC Drives

Featuring patented TotalFORCE® technology, these six-pulse variable frequency drives deliver flexible, high-performance motor control, real-­time operational intelligence and eased application commissioning and optimization. Designed for countless motor control applications and industries – from standard to the most demanding industrial control challenges – these drives help deliver the productivity and throughput you need.

This next generation of PowerFlex drives is suited for all your industrial applications. Look to the PowerFlex 755TS drives for common traditional variable frequency drive applications and specialized applications that require high-performance motor control.

Supporting multiple motor types and multiple motor control modes gives you the advantage to use a common drive for multiple applications – simplifying parts, training and support.

To help get the most out of your equipment, PowerFlex 755TS drives are the first six-pulse variable frequency drives to incorporate TotalFORCE technology.

TotalFORCE technology combines flexible, high-performance motor control, advanced self-monitoring capabilities and a real-time digital platform that provides data that can make the difference between profit and loss. Customers leverage the rich diagnostic and predictive analytic insights to make smart operation, energy and predictive maintenance decisions.

Learn More

RED LION Controls Acquires MB CONNECT LINE

Red Lion Controls, an operating company of UK-based Spectris plc, is pleased to announce the acquisition of MB connect line GmbH, a leading provider of secure connection of machines and plants for remote access, data collection, and M2M-communication. The addition of MB connect line supports Red Lion’s strategy to deliver secure, easy-to-use edge connectivity solutions - enabling organizations worldwide to gain secure real-time data visibility that drives productivity.

Headquartered in Dinkelsbühl, Germany, MB connect line is a recognized leader of Secure Remote Access, Industrial IoT, and Industrial Security services. MB connect line’s highly secured hardware and software solutions enhance Red Lion’s modular and rugged industrial automation and networking technology.

The addition of MB connect line builds on the strategic collaboration announced between the two companies in 2019. The acquisition expands Red Lion’s portfolio by adding a full complement of products from an industry recognized leader in industrial cyber-security and offers customers a Remote Service Portal for remote monitoring and remote configuration. Customers will be able to meet the demands of industrial environments and strengthen their operational resiliency with secure remote access solutions.

“Red Lion Controls and MB connect line are a powerful combination. With a shared focus on secure connectivity solutions, we will be better positioned to serve our customers seeking to strengthen their operational resiliency with the convergence of Information Technology and Operations Technology. Red Lion is very excited about starting this new chapter, supporting customers with a broader product offering and greater technical resources,” stated Jack Lee, President of Red Lion Controls.

"With the acquisition of MB connect line by Red Lion Controls, we are taking the next step in our successful partnership. MB connect line will continue to expand its comprehensive portfolio of solutions for secure remote maintenance and networking as well as edge and cloud connectivity. MB connect line is very excited to work together with Red Lion Controls to provide the best solutions for the digital transformation in the industry - and to benefit from Red Lion Controls' strong global presence," stated Siegfried Müller, CEO and founder of MB connect line.

Endress+Hauser dedicates new facility in France

Endress+Hauser manufactures flowmeters in Cernay for delivery to customers around the world. “Cernay is one of the Group’s fastest growing locations and has already been expanded nine times since it went into operation in 1991,” says Matthias Altendorf, CEO of the Endress+Hauser Group at the dedication ceremony of the new production and office building, which was held on 10 June 2022 in the presence of customers, partners and guests from government and industry.

The additional 10,000 square meters of space will be used primarily for the manufacture of electromagnetic flowmeters. Among the location’s core expertise is the lining of the measuring tubes of these versatile instruments, an important manufacturing step for the quality of the instruments. The extension building also features space for offices, meeting rooms, a company restaurant and a customer area for factory acceptance tests. The location currently has 430 employees.

Construction began in January 2019 and was completed in April 2020. “Here in Cernay we produce with the highest quality standards, like at all of our locations around the world. For this reason, it’s important for us to offer our employees a work environment that meets their needs,” says Thierry Weissgerber, Managing Director of Endress+Hauser Flow in Cernay.

Large bay windows provide natural light. Break and relaxation areas featuring sofas and kitchenettes were also integrated into the production building.

As well as electromagnetic flowmeters, Cernay manufactures ultrasound and vortex meters. The new building was designed chiefly for the manufacture of the Progmag H and Dosimag H products, which are used primarily in the food and life sciences industries. A double-skin facade dampens the noise from the production systems. Circulation aisles enable delivery of the material close to the production lines and save space.

HIMA Opens Customer Support Centers in Germany and Singapore

With the simultaneous opening of Customer Solutions Centers in Brühl and Singapore, HIMA is creating completely new opportunities to experience, test and further develop safety and security solutions together with customers. By locating the experts in one place, discussions can be more illuminating and customers’ questions can be answered and validated more effectively.

Five disciplines are combined in each Customer Solutions Center: Consulting, Applications, Academy, Security Lab and the Experience Room. Flexibly configurable rooms with state-of-the-art technology are set up to most effectively facilitate each type of meeting. Networking and catering areas, carefully designed to optimize interaction, invite visitors to exchange ideas in an inspiring environment. Furthermore, the employees’ work environment has been designed to enhance creativity and teamwork.

"As shareholders, we are convinced that the new Customer Solutions Centers are an investment in the future of our globally positioned family-owned company. We made this choice as our customers’ business partner to actively drive customer partnerships and innovations forward, while providing an exceptional working environment as a modern employer," explains Steffen Philipp, Managing Partner of HIMA.

In Brühl, near Mannheim, a completely new world was created for customers, partner companies and employees in a newly rented building of 2,000 square meters. In Singapore, the existing space was doubled in order to set up an independent Customer Solutions Center for the strategically important Asia region. "The new Customer Solutions Centers in Europe and Asia are important milestones in the implementation of our strategy," explains Jörg de la Motte. "We create innovative solutions there that can be experienced by our customers on site. This applies in particular to the cooperation with our strategic partners such as Mangan Software Solutions and genua." In joint workshops on site, customers will be able to shed light on their questions, and find better answers, together with respective safety experts. The solutions that are developed can then be tested in the Experience Room to enable direct validation using state-of-the-art hardware and software as well as innovative digital approaches for customer processes.

Endress+Hauser recognizes the Group’s innovators record Patents

The Innovators’ Meeting honors Endress+Hauser employees for economically significant and especially creative innovations. Awards are also handed out for process improvements or the reuse of existing solutions. The 20th annual event, originally scheduled for 2020, was held this year while celebrating a new record in approved patents. More than 100 employees were recognized.

Since 2000 Endress+Hauser has invited all employees involved in patent filings to the annual Innovators’ Meeting. No in-person events were held in the past two years because of the coronavirus pandemic. The company thus used this year as an opportunity to celebrate the event’s 20th anniversary. 360 innovators were invited to attend the two-day session at Europa-Park in Rust, Germany to be creative and celebrate with one another.

“Innovation continues to be a driver of our success and our innovation rate is high. The numbers nevertheless show us that the innovation process is suffering from a lack of personal interaction,” says Dr Andreas Mayr, Chief Operating Officer at the Endress+Hauser Group. With 258 initial filings, Endress+Hauser is slightly under the prior year’s figure of 276. “Many ideas arise through coincidental encounters and the sharing of information. Together we are simply more creative and innovative.”

One reason to celebrate is the new record of 764 worldwide patent approvals. Since many innovations in multiple countries are filed as patents, this figure is regularly above the number of internal patent submissions. The intellectual property rights portfolio, which protects the Endress+Hauser products, solutions and services from imitators, now comprises a total of 8,600 patents and patent filings.

Endress+Hauser places a high value on research and development. In 2021, the Group invested more than 210 million euros in R&D, which equates to 7.4 percent of sales. “This ensures that our pipeline continues to be filled with new products. We will introduce more than 30 new products to the market this year as well,” says Andreas Mayr.