Reliable wired and wireless barcode readers for hazardous areas
Written by REM Staff
Pepperl+Fuchs introduces the PowerScan barcode reader system
for Zone 1 and Division 1 hazardous areas. The wireless PowerScan M
system for Zone 1 locations consists of a transmitter and base station,
with power provided by a charger located in the safe area. The wired
PowerScan D system for Div. 1 / Zone 1 locations consists of a barcode
reader connected via a junction box to the Host PC, which can be
located up to 150 meters away in the safe area.
With PowerScan, all common 1D-barcode families can be captured, and
patented technology effectively reads even damaged and
difficult-to-read barcodes. The rugged housing ensures full
functionality, even after being dropped from a height of two meters.
PowerScan features a targeting guide that helps the user achieve
successful readings when codes are located in close proximity to one
another. Three green LEDs located on the top and back of the barcode
reader are visible from any angle to visually confirm that the code has
been successfully read. Successful readings are also confirmed with an
audible tone, and the result can be read in the display.
The PowerScan wireless barcode reading system can be used in
combination with VisuNet industrial operator workstations, TERMEX
operator terminals or as a standalone solution. www.pepperl-fuchs.us/powerscan
Track, store, analyze oil sample data with Trakka 3.4
Written by REM Staff
Dingo
has released Trakka 3.4, a web-based software system that allows
Dingo's condition-based asset management system to track, store and
analyze oil sample data, resulting in early identification of
maintenance issues.
The key functionality changes allow the user to more easily disseminate
the information specifically pertinent to their area of interest or
responsibility and also allow actions to be tracked in greater detail
There are also several enhancements which will allow the user to
integrate Trakka with existing CMMS/ERP systems. It can assist the
planning department as a second check to ensure service intervals are
not being missed.
First released in 2005, Trakka is designed to allow seamless,
electronic data flow from any oil analysis lab into the database for
rapid turnaround time. Tailored, site specific alarm settings can be
implemented for the entire enterprise, enabling spotting of trends and
lubrication issues fleet-wide. Trakka also stores the user's unique set
of procedures that guide the detailed, corrective actions after they
have been identified.
Trakka is currently used by eight of the largest mining companies in
the world, with additional applications that have proven successful in
wind turbine, rail, fixed plant and pipeline industries.
Colin Donnelly, Dingo's director of engineering, said of this recent
software release, "Release 3.4 enables Trakka users to focus on
specific equipment they are responsible for or choose a higher level
view, to see the condition of all assets within the organization. This
makes it a powerful tool for a shop floor mechanic or the COO." www.dingo.com
Ultrasonic weld inspection system
Written by REM Staff
GE Measurement & Control Solutions has released the USM Vision ultrasonic (UT) weld inspection system,
which allows non-UT trained specialists to gather reliable and accurate
pipe weld inspection data, for subsequent remote assessment by a
suitably qualified ultrasonics expert. This permits ultrasonic
inspection to be used in situations conventionally requiring
radiography, removing constraints such as extended film processing
times, radiation screening and waste chemicals disposal.
As a result, it facilitates the migration of skills from radiography to
UT, reducing the possibility of bottlenecks, providing significant
increases in productivity and improving operational health and safety.
USM Vision will find particular application in the oil and gas and
power generation sectors, bringing benefit to asset owners, welding and
fabrication contractors and inspection service companies.
The new inspection solution can operate in phased array and TOFD mode
and is supplied with its operating software and GE’s Rhythm analysis
software, as well as the probes and wedges to suit the selected codes
and pipe ranges. Set-up is menu-directed allowing the operating
software to calculate the ultrasonic parameters for each weld and pipe
combination and create an easy-to-follow inspection plan. The operator
can then scan the weld, with an encoded scanner, using TOFD or Phased
Array. Inspection data is transmitted to a review station in the
industry-accepted protocol, allowing advanced analysis tools, such as
real time, volume corrected imaging, to allow easier and more reliable
image interpretation. By using GE’s Rhythm software platform,
inspection data can be reviewed and shared, reports generated and
inspection results archived for tracking or further analysis. www.ge-mcs.com/en/inspection-technologies.html
Underground mine truck
Written by REM Staff
Atlas Copco
says its new Minetruck MT42 represents the next generation of
underground trucks. The MT42, powered by a 520-hp, EPA Tier 3/Stage
IIIA-compliant Cummins QSX15 diesel, is capable of delivering reliable
performance and high speed on ramps, according to the company. The
transmission has eight forward and two reverse gears and features a
self-diagnostic system for rapid troubleshooting. Operator comforts in
the standard ISO ROPS/FOPS-certified cabin include an air-suspension,
forward-facing seat; a clear, multifunction display monitor; air
conditioning and a trainer’s seat. www.atlascopco.com
PBC33A aqueous parts washer
Written by REM Staff
The Snap-on
Aqueous Parts Washer (PBC33A) has a heated cleaning solution that works
effectively by relieving surface tension of the grime, doing more of
the work for you. It requires less maintenance as the specially
formulated solution does not absorb oil and dirt, and its filtration
system and internal oil skimmer captures contaminants, preserving the
freshness of the cleaning solution. The biodegradable, non-toxic,
water-based cleaning solution carries the Green Seal Certification mark
and is certified by the South Coast Air Quality Management District. It
is safer for your health and carries fewer VOC emissions. www.snapon.com/canada
P3 Series thermal imagers
Written by REM Staff
Fluke Corp.
introduces the P3 Series thermal imagers, which includes the Ti32 and
TiR32 models, plus the new Ti27 and Ti29 models for industrial,
electrical, mechanical and process applications; and TiR27 and TiR29
models for building inspection, energy audit and building maintenance
applications. All models are designed to work in even the harshest
environments and provide superior image quality with one-handed,
easy-to-use interfaces. The new imagers feature a large total pixel
image count (76,800 pixels for the Ti32/TiR32 models) and high spatial
resolution that, combined with the 3.7-inch diagonal, full VGA-color
LCD displays, provides clear images. www.flukecanada.ca
KSB RPH Series heavy-duty pumps
Written by REM Staff
KSB Pumps’
new RPH series of single-stage pumps with radially split volutes has
been engineered for extreme reliability and longevity in the most
demanding applications. Designed to be compliant with API-610 and ISO
13709, these pumps are for petrochemical and oil refinery applications.
Features include a pressure balancing system that reduces bearing
forces, large roller and ball bearings, mechanical seals and the
availability of corrosion-resistant alloys for all wetted components.
RPH pumps are available with flow rates of up to 4,800 m3/hr (21,100 US
gpm), maximum heads of 285 m (935 ft), and operating temperatures
between -110° and +450°C. www.ksbcanada.com
Direct-groove, two-piece coupling for large-diameter pipes
Written by Andre Voshart
Victaulic has extension of its line of patented Advanced Groove System (AGS) couplings for pipe sizes up to 60 inches in diameter for HVAC, mining, water and wastewater and industrial applications. A typical large-diameter joint that requires several hours to weld can be installed easily in less than an hour. With a two-piece housing and a wedge-shaped groove that delivers pressure ratings up to 350 PSI, depending on the pipe size and wall thickness, the company says they offer exceptional assembly speed and reliability. To further simplify installation, the new larger size AGS coupling housings feature lifting lugs for added convenience when lifting individual housings. www.victaulic.com/ags
Data collector and signal analyzer
Written by Andre Voshart
PRÜFTECHNIK Canada introduces the next generation of the VIBXPERT two-channel data collector and FFT signal analyzer. A VGA color screen with more than 200,000 colours creates a clearer graphics-based user interface. As a data collector, it achieves lower measurement times through the use of the latest processor technology and by optimizing internal measurement processes. Numerous evaluation functions and practical measurement templates ease detailed analyses of complex machinery problems and routine measurements on-site. With the large data memory of 2 GB and long-life lithium ion batteries, data collection of up to eight hours can be achieved. www.pruftechnik.ca
Diamond-coated seal extends pump life
Written by Andre Voshart
Keeping a pump in good working condition is essential for cost-effective and reliable operation of plants and systems. When working properly, mechanical seals are generally safe and reliable. Problems occur when the sliding faces of a mechanical seal are not adequately lubricated, resulting in a dry-running condition that ultimately causes the destruction and breakdown of the seal.
To combat the problem of dry running, EagleBurgmann has developed its DiamondFaces seal-face coating. Diamond is the hardest natural mineral known and offers excellent chemical and thermal resistance. A microcrystalline coating of 8-µm thickness on a silicon carbide seal face extends the life of the seal, reducing maintenance costs and minimizing lifecycle costs for pump users. By using mechanical seals coated with DiamondFaces, the company says the average service life of mechanical seals substantially increases. This allows pump operators to schedule preventive inspections of mechanical seals and eliminate or reduce the costs of unplanned process interruptions. www.eagleburgmann.com
It’s a whole new world for maintenance and engineering technicians. The use of mobile computing devices is on the rise, replacing the traditional pen and clipboard. Is it right for your facility?
Pepperl+Fuchs introduces the 
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