Synthetic diamond radial bearing for harsh environments
Written by Rob Colman
Orem, UT - US Synthetic Corporation, a Dover Company and a provider of polycrystalline diamond cutters (PDCs) for oil and gas exploration, announced on May 5th the availability of the industry’s first commercially viable radial bearing line based on synthetic diamond technology. Coming out of field trials with major manufacturers, this groundbreaking technology from the US Synthetic Bearings division has garnered the 2009 Spotlight on New Technology Award from the Offshore Technology Conference, and was also recognized by the 2009 Utah Innovations Awards, presented by Stoel Rives LLP and the Utah Technology Council.
Columbus, IN - Cummins Inc. announced recently that the 4-cylinder QSB3.3 and QSB4.5 engines will meet EU Stage IIIB and U.S. EPA Tier 4 Interim off-highway emissions in 2012 across a broad 75- to 160-hp (56 to 119 kW) power range.
Automation Products Group, Inc. (APG) offers a "Sensor Solutions for Oil and Gas Drilling Operations" brochure that includes mud pressure, mud-tank level, liquid-level sensing and general-purpose monitoring and pressure-calibration equipment. The informative brochure reviews potential oil and gas sensing products, such as APG's HU intrinsically safe Hammer Union pressure transmitter, PT-400 pressure sensor, PT-500 hydrostatic pressure-level transmitter, PG-7 digital-pressure gauge, LPU-2428 ultrasonic-level sensor, RPM resistive chain-level sensor and LPU-2127 ultrasonic sensor, says the company. www.apgsensors.com
New slick oils
Written by REM
Shell Canada Products' lubricants business, Shell Lubricants Canada, says it has reformulated the Shell Turbo Oils CC range of turbine oils to offer improved deposit resistance for increased turbine reliability and availability. Shell Turbo Oils help meet the severe demands imposed by modern heavy-duty turbine applications, including combined-cycle, gas and steam turbines, says the company. The Shell Turbo Oils combined-cycle (CC) range helps tackle the long-standing problem of lacquer or varnish formation in servo-valves, which causes the valves to stick or seize, says the company. www.shell.ca
Silent but strong
Written by REM
Atlas Copco Compressors Canada says its newly launched improvements to its 11-30 kW GA+/ GA VSD compressor range have resulted in world-class Free Air Delivery (FAD). These oil-injected compressors are compact and silent and the new integrated dryer enhances energy efficiency and air quality simultaneously, says the company. Now all standard models are built to operate in ambient temperatures of up to 46 degrees Celsius (114.8 degrees Fahrenheit), offer intuitive monitoring interfaces and are equipped with a robust, high-efficiency gearbox, completely protected against dirt, says the company. The compressors are suited for a variety of applications and industries. www.atlascopco.com
Smarter intelligence platforms
GE Fanuc has introduced two variations for its PACSystems RX3i. The new thermocouple modules reduce downtime, provide improved process control, and allow high-performance data sampling. They also provide advanced temperature input abilities for increased temperature control.
The new fireproof enclosures from Altech can both maintain system function and deliver power in the event of a fire. Offering shock and fire protection, the boxes can sustain flame protection for up to 90 minutes, as well as offering leak protection. Available in a variety of sizes, and all made of halogen-free duroplastic, all models are self-extinguishing and can be lead sealed.
Atlas Copco Compressors has introduced the FD 5-4000 refrigerant dryer, which provides constant dry air to reduce moisture damage. With throughputs from five to 4000 liters, the dryer helps reduce the number of system failures and downtime. It features a hot gas bypass, heat exchanger, low-velocity water separator, and energy-efficient compressor.
TR Electronic has released an online sensor designed to allow users to evaluate new approaches to existing sensor plans. It can ideally determine a means of reducing spending or a specific return on investment (ROI, NPV, and others). Free to use, results are provided within 24 hours.
Custom Sensors and Technologies has released a pressure/temperature sensor designed for use with the R744 (CO2) refrigerant for mobile air conditioning systems. With a 17-4 pH hermetically-sealed stainless steel housing and a sensor capable of withstanding temperatures from -40 to 180 degrees Celsius, it can be used in high vibration environments. It also features reverse polarity protection and over-voltage protection. www.cstsensors.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?
