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Electric vehicle tire challenges in winter
Electric and hybrid vehicles are being built and sold, worldwide, in increasing numbers, but their heavier weight compared to conventional vehicles is a challenge, particularly in winter conditions.
How to make absence of voltage testing safer and more productive
Absence of voltage testing is a hot topic among safety experts and electrical safety manufacturers and permanent electrical safety devices (PESDs) can help improve safety.
Center for next-gen battery technology created
The University of Michigan will lead a suite of projects involving multiple institutions to boost understanding of solid-state EV power cells.
How food and beverage companies can upgrade their electrical safety programs
How fast-paced work environments and reactive maintenance lead to a higher rate of injuries and OSHA violations, and the role training plays.
How to optimize control cabinet construction
Automated and digitized processes that support cabinet manufacturers by providing simplicity, speed and reliability generate benefits and concrete added value.
Edgar talks design tech for cabling
The video podcast show, Let’s Talk Cabling!, recently invited an ESD expert to discuss the benefits of 3D modeling for designing cable installation projects.
Graphene on textured surface allows for 2D electron optics
Rice University scientists put forth the idea that graphene on a gently textured surface turns it into “pseudo-electromagnetic” devices.
Top 5 Plant Engineering articles March 21-27, 2022
Articles about electric vehicles, luminaire benefits, safety in explosive environments, motor management and propane forklifts were Plant Engineering’s five most clicked articles from March 21-27, 2022. Miss something? You can catch up here.
Establishing the case for building electrification
Building electrification presents a tangible strategy within the consulting-specifying industry to reduce and eliminate long-term operational CO2 emissions.
Stabilizing interfaces in solid-state batteries
MIT researchers have developed a method for stabilizing the interfaces in solid-state lithium-ion batteries opens new possibilities.
Considering electric vehicle charging risks
Electric vehicle (EV) charging risk involves potential damage to EV batteries, compromised EV life safety systems, charger malfunction and more.
Electrostatic engineering gets the lead out for faster batteries
A Cornell-led research collaboration discovered an approach for making a lead-free antiferroelectric that performs as well as its toxic relatives.
Reasserting U.S. leadership in microelectronics, semiconductors
MIT researchers lay out a strategy for how universities can help the U.S. regain its former status as a major power in semiconductor and microchip production.
Powering the shift to electric mines
How resistors can facilitate safe, efficient underground mining.
Top 5 Plant Engineering articles Nov. 22-28, 2021
Articles about EVs recharging in under 5 minutes, upgrading industrial PC cybersecurity in manufacturing, grease performance testing methods, and more were Plant Engineering’s five most clicked articles from Nov. 22-28, 2021. Miss something? You can catch up here.
EVs recharge in under 5 minutes with new charging cable design
Purdue researchers designed a charging cable that can deliver a current 4.6 times that of the fastest available EV chargers on the market today
Why more manufacturers are turning to microgrids
Microgrids mitigate power distribution vulnerabilities
Protecting power systems
The benefits of neutral earthing transformers for safe transmission
Top 5 Plant Engineering articles July 26- Aug 1, 2021
Articles about the global semiconductor chip shortage, autonomous UV robots, how to properly size surge protective devices, and more were Plant Engineering’s five most clicked articles from July 26- Aug 1, 2021. Miss something? You can catch up here.
Learning from the global semiconductor chip shortage
The semiconductor supply chain is unique, but there are lessons that all manufacturers can learn from its shortcomings.
Tools designed to enhance grid operations and benefit consumers
Texas A&M University researchers are developing decision-making tools to enable and incentivize consumers to provide energy resource support back to the power grid when needed
How to extend switchgear life and improve system reliability
Improve system reliability of switchgear with protective relay upgrade projects.
2D oxide flakes pick up electrical properties
Rice University lab detects piezoelectric effects in nanosheets due to defects, which could improve energy harvesting applications.
LDC Focus: Spotlight on Enbridge Gas Inc.
Ontario utility embarks on North America’s first utility-scale Power to Gas plant project
Decarbonization and electrification: View from the utilities
Two utilities speak out regarding their efforts and views on decarbonization and electrification
Protect electrical components from corrosion
Corrosion is a powerful destructive force; prevention is key
Safety tips on SCCR for industrial control panels, industrial machinery
How to determine short-circuit current rating (SCCR) and avoid misapplications. When the industrial control panel or industrial machinery does not have an adequate SCCR for the available short-circuit (fault) current, an electrical hazard exists.
Electrical group names president for national committee
Kevin Lippert has been appointed president of the United States National Committee (USNC) to the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) and will work on testing, certification and accreditation for the electrotechnical industry.
Pick the right wiring for the right application
Plugs, connectors have different uses in different environments.
Insulation tester
Megger insulation testers include special noise suppression for use in high voltage substations or switchyards and are line- or battery-operated for extra testing flexibility in the field. The measurement range has been expanded to 15 TΩ on the S1-552 and 35 TΩ on the S1-1052 for improved insulation testing and better long-term trending of test results of higher value apparatus.
NERC PRC-025: 2019 compliance starts now
Six steps to meet the new Generator Relay Loadability Standard.
Trade organization announces annual conference
The Electrical Apparatus Service Association (EASA) Annual Convention and Exposition from June 24 - 26, 2018 at the Wisconsin Center in Milwaukee, Wisc. is focused on the theme "Connect 2 Quality."
Sags, swells, and voltage deviation effects for troubleshooting motors
NEMA states speed and torque performance—as well as motor life—may be negatively affected by voltage variations.
Total harmonic distortion effects on motors
Prior to the advent of the transistor, electrical loads were linear: their consumption of current resembled voltage’s sine wave.
The evolution of power monitoring and maintenance
IIoT and Big Data have changed the power monitoring and preventive maintenance landscapes.
Top 5 Plant Engineering articles, November 6-12: Why electric motors overheat, finding the perfect maintenance balance, 2017 Product of the Year finalists, and more
Articles about why electric motors overheat, finding the perfect maintenance balance, 2017 Product of the Year Finalists, spare parts management, and why ‘Five Whys’ may be incomplete were Plant Engineering's five most clicked articles from last week, November 6-12. Were you out? You can catch up here.
Top 5 Plant Engineering articles, October 30-November 5: IoT for predictive maintenance, preventive maintenance shortcomings, spare parts management best practices, and more
Articles about IoT for predictive maintenance, preventive maintenance shortcomings, spare parts management best practices, why “Five Whys” may not be enough, and managing compressed air efficiency were Plant Engineering's five most clicked articles from last week, October 30-November 5. Were you out? You can catch up here.
Power panels: a flexible, modular approach
With lower total cost of ownership (TCO) and faster installation, power panels are entering into a new era of platforms.
2017 Engineering Leader Under 40: Tyler Budde, 27
Engineering Associate, Advanced Technology Services, Peoria, Ill.
2017 Engineering Leader Under 40: Brian Gapske, 36
Software Engineering Team Leader, RedViking, Plymouth, Mich.
2017 Engineering Leader Under 40: Kevin Harris, PE, 33
Engineering Director, Dynamic Test Systems, RedViking, Raleigh, N.C.
2017 Engineering Leader Under 40: Sheikh Nauman Iqbal, 35
Control System Specialist, Intech Process Automation Pvt. Ltd., Lahore, Punjab
Differences between electric motors and generators
Electric motors and generators have significant differences in terms of function and what they are used for, but both are closely connected to Faraday's Law of Electromagnetic Induction.
Empowered to cut wasted energy
The Department of Energy (DOE) program is designed to find and eliminate energy waste and offers many resources to help organizations achieve their goals.
Insulation resistance testers
The MIT515, MIT525, MIT1025, and MIT1525 insulation resistance testers are designed to test high-voltage power cables and buses, large motor/generator windings, as well as line and substation transformers for insulation resistance.
Control room temperatures: Strategies to beat the heat
Air-to-water exchangers can reduce variable frequency drive (VFD) heat exposure.
Microgrids drive a new energy strategy
Energy master planning provides a bridge to the future by using microgrids to help manufacturers integrate renewable energy resources.
Seven mistakes to avoid when upgrading your plant to LEDs
Mistakes to avoid when highlighting your plant to LED include choosing the wrong watt level, not using available technology, and making a purchasing without doing your homework.
Dual-purpose capacitor product line
The DD60 capacitors are designed to block harmonics and prevent resonance in high ambient temperature and high-harmonic current real-world applications
Medium-voltage drive for low power applications
The Sinamics Perfect Harmony GH180 variable frequency drives have medium-voltage power output for critical applications and is created by linking a series of low-voltage power cells.
Top 5 Plant Engineering articles: January 2-January 8: managing small capital projects, 2016 Product of the Year finalists, new EAB members, more
Articles about managing small capital projects, 2016 Product of the Year finalists, new EAB members, 2016 Top Plant, and control panel questions were Plant Engineering's five most clicked articles from last week, January 2-January 8. Were you out? You can catch up here.
Adjustable LED lamp
The Lotus Lamp is designed for versatility with a 180° adjustable mounting arm that allows the Lamp to install in multiple positions and at different lengths for use in a wide variety of applications.
Tips for keeping DC motors healthy
An effective maintenance program prolongs the lifespan of DC motors and prevents expensive and unnecessary repairs.
Top 5 Plant Engineering articles: December 19-December 25: 2016 Product of the Year Finalists, importance of short-circuit rating, 2016 Top Plant, more
Articles about 2016 Product of the Year Finalists, importance of short-circuit rating, 2016 Top Plant, bearing failures beyond root-cause analysis, and data management driving IIoT were Plant Engineering's five most clicked articles from last week, December 19-December 25. Were you out? You can catch up here.
Six ways to avoid electrical testing problems
It is important to safely start up electrical systems and restarting them securely after routine maintenance has taken place. Six tips to avoid these problems are highlighted below.
Oil-free standard air compressors
The Emeraude-ALE series of oil-free standard air compressors are designed for supplying compressed air to power equipment and plants, as well as for painting, powder conveying and other uses.
Medium voltage switchgear Webcast: Your questions answered
Jeff Jordan, offer manager for metal-enclosed products, Schneider Electric, answered additional questions on how to increase reliability and decrease cost from the Oct. 6 webcast on medium-voltage switchgear.
Power solution for battery-power applications
CBI all-in-one UPS power solutions combines multiple functions in a single device for use as a power supply unit, battery charger, battery care module, or backup module.
Portable cords for power connections
Type SOOW and SJOOW flexible power cables feature multiple conductors used for electrical power connections requiring flexibility and resistance to many environmental factors.
SCCR code change Webcast: Your questions answered
Thomas Domitrovich and Derek Strittmatter from Eaton answer unanswered questions from the Sept. 21, 2016, webcast on how SCCR code changes will impact procurement, installation, and safety.
Cable glands for securing electrical equipment
Bimed cable glands are designed to secure wire or cable to electrical equipment while providing strain relief and protection from dust, dirt, and liquids.
Motorized blower for industrial, commercial applications
The TCC motorized blower is an air-moving package that is designed for applications that require low noise and high efficiency.
Digitizers with fully synchronous multi-channel acquisition
The LXI-based DN.649x series is designed for applications where a large number of signals need to be acquired and analyzed with speed and precision such as sensors, detectors, rectifiers, antennas and other electronic devices.
LED retrofit kit expanded
The LED Linear Retrofit Assembly (LRA) option is designed for indoor and covered outdoor strip fixture applications.
Self-regulating heating system for supply lines
The EasyHeat In-Pipe Self-regulating Heating System is designed to provide economical, reliable in-pipe freeze protection for PE and metallic supply lines.
Electrical distribution, redefined
Technology developments improve safety, maintenance while limiting outages.
Precision levels for eliminating dog-legs
IDEAL Precision Levels are designed to eliminate dog-legs and to ensure that bent conduit lines up correctly for perfect, labor-saving installations no matter how many bends are made.
Mid-range turbine air starter
The ST150 turbine air starter with 47 horsepower aluminum motor is designed for fast starts on mid-size, heavy-duty diesel and gas engines.
Fork sensor series with red light and laser models
The PS series fork sensors are offered in visible red light and laser models and the rugged metal one-piece construction is designed for constant alignment.
Cordsets for food and beverage applications
The M12 overmolded cordsets are ideal for harsh environments such as demanding vibration and high pressure washdowns.
Corrosion protection adhesive tape for electrical and electronic equipment
ElectriCorr VpCI®-150 Tape powered by Nano-VpCI® protects metal in enclosed spaces from corrosion.
Multi-wavelength LED solar simulator
The LumiSun-50 multi-wavelength LED solar simulator is designed for terrestrial photovoltaic testting and PV research applications.
Standby generation as a profit center
Natural gas-powered reliability.
Luminaire longevity for AreaMax LED in marine environments
Evluma provides an enhanced coastal package for AreaMax installed in marine shore and salt spray environments.
CHP a ‘powerful combination’ for plants
While combined heat and power faces challenges, it offers intriguing opportunities.
Variable speed drive with permanent magnet motor
VSD+ technology for GA oil-injected rotary screw compressors adjusts motor and element speed to meet the demand of a plant or facility.
Digital magnification system
CODA, a digital benchtop magnification system, is designed to provide the ultimate in magnification simplicity for production, quality control, and other inspection applications.
IR inspections help spot energy loss
Part 1 of 3: Because of the many facets of IR scans, this is the first of a three-part series which sheds light on an important part of a predictive maintenance program.
Rate indicator/totalizer with increased flexibility
The Hoffer HIT-4U rate indicator/totalizer features additional options providing the user with enhanced functionality and flexibility in a compact enclosure.
Liquid-tight flexible conduit
The Liquatite conduit is designed for a wide range of uses in the electrical industry, including motors, lighting, electric signs, elevators, pools/fountains, enclosure connections, and more.
Micro Ethernet communication module
AutomationDirect’s C-more Micro line of operator interfaces includes the EA-ECOM communication expansion module.
Webcast: The Link Between Maintenance and Electrical Safety
This webcast presentation looks at the important link between maintenance and electrical safety and how best practices in both areas can be coordinated to produce a safer and more efficient electrical system.
PSMP cable plugs expand Amphenol RF product line
Amphenol RF builds upon the PSMP board-to-board designs by adding four PSMP cable connectors.
Electronic counter
TULMan electronic counter serves as universal tool to monitor and maintain pneumatic devices.
Line of flexible waveguides
Flexible waveguides operating 40 GHz over nine bands help fix common alignment issues in waveguide systems.
Colorimetric analyzer helps monitor manganese and iron in drinking water
The CA6 colorimetric analyzer provides accurate and reliable measurement of manganese (Mn) or iron levels in municipal drinking water production, food/beverage processing, and other high purity water processes.
Servo adaptor
The compact design of the Lenze servo adaptor provides a more compact and cost-effective solution than using a standard input flange connection from a gearbox to a servo motor.
Ultrasonic flowmeter for superheated steam
The OPTISONIC 8300 ultrasonic flowmeter for superheated steam, delivers 1% measuring accuracy, high repeatability, and has a large dynamic measuring range with maintenance-free operation.
Wall mount steel enclosures for harsh environments
The HWHK Series of wall mount enclosures is designed to house electrical and/or electronic equipment in harsh industrial environments.
LED driver series for large-scale lighting systems
The HLG-320H-C series of LED drivers designed for large-scale lighting systems requiring high voltage with high power.
Continuous-motion case sealer
The Model 199 continuous-motion case sealer is ideal for high-speed sealing of primed flap and re-shipper cases (RSC).
Camera-to-light cables
The camera-to-light (CTL) Grey Series of cables provide a directly wired connection between a single light and the Baumer VeriSens® XC series camera.
Non-contact infrared thermometer
The micro IR-200 non-contact infrared thermometer provides simple, quick and accurate surface temperature readings of virtually any surface.
Series of process alarm switches
The CR3595 Series of process alarm switches feature LED indicator for alarm status to provide an effective method for signaling alarm status.
Embedded PCs
The Compact CX8190 embedded PCs is ideal for Ethernet communication.
Mobile power meter with silicon sensor
The PRONTO-Si, a mobile power meter with silicon sensor, is ideal for use in power measurement applications or testing of structural and equipment laser protective measures.
Multi-sense humidity probe
The HP125 Multi-Sense Humidity Probe measures relative humidity, dew point, temperature, and pressure in industrial and laboratory applications.
Portable last marker
The VIS-P portable laser marker is ideal for applications to mark plastics, metals and alloys, as well as anodized, painted surfaces.
Lumen output areamaster LED
A 26,000 lumen output Areamaster LED version for flood light and high bay applications to address the market's need for an energy-efficient alternative to traditional 1000W HID fixtures in hazardous industrial areas.
Ohmic current sense resistors
The Model CSS series features low Temperature Coefficient of Resistance (TCR) for operating accuracy over wide temperature ranges and excellent long term stability.
Isolated miniDIP dc/dc converters
The MG800xRW series provides 8W of output power in a space saving MiniDIP package. They are specifically designed to provide the compact size, high power density, I/O isolation and model selection required by a wide range of space critical board level applications.
Circuit monitor panelboard
The Pow-R-Line PXBCM Branch Circuit Monitor Panelboard delivers remote energy usage monitoring and improved compliance.
EtherCAT plug-in I/O modules with compact drive technology
The EtherCAT plug-in modules for motion applications expand the application spectrum of Beckhoff EJ series I/O in mass-produced machinery.
3,900-watt LED work area string light set
The 3,900-watt LED work area string light set for general work areas.
Ultra-compact impact tools for technicians
The 35MAX and 15QMAX Ultra-Compact ImpactoolsTM that technicians and operators can use to quickly loosen or tighten a variety of fasteners in confined spaces.
Analog to relay limit alarm modules
AutomationDirect’s new FC-series analog to relay limit alarm modules are field configurable for a variety of alarm and control applications.
Regulations look past motors to improve system efficiencies
NEMA: Motion control system can deliver more than six times the power savings by utilizing a power drive system.
Quiescent current surge stopper
The LTC4380, an ultralow quiescent current (IQ) surge stopper, provides compact overvoltage and overcurrent protection for always-on 4V to 72V electronics in automotive, industrial and avionic systems.
LED pedestal mounted work light
The BML-150LED is a 150 watt LED pedestal mount work light that produces 14,790 lumens of light capable of illuminating an area 18,000 square feet in size.
Hazardous location signal light with audible horn
The HAL-TL-5X10W-C-PA is a hazardous location LED signal stack light equipped with an audible horn for use in hazardous environments where explosive and flammable gases, vapors, and dusts may occasionally be present.
High current inductors for high frequency applications
Coilcraft's SLR Family of high current, shielded power inductors is offered with current ratings up to 100 Amps and inductance values from 85 to 370 nH, making it suitable for high frequency applications.
Step-down dc/dc converter
The LT8608, a 1.5 A synchronous step-down dc/dc converter, delivers 93& efficiency at 2 MHz and operates from 3.0 V to 42 V inputs.
High voltage differential probes
The Elditest voltage differential probes make safe, accurate measurements between two voltage points where neither point is referenced to ground.
Fluorescent light fixture with dimmable capabilities
The HAL-EMG-24-2L-T8-D fluorescent light fixture that is constructed of copper free aluminum alloy and powder coated for corrosion resistance.
Modules for PROFIBUS controllers
The SST™ PB3-CPX modules for PROFIBUS controllers enable high-performance, low cost solutions for industrial automation applications.
Digital panels
ProSense line of digital panels is a cost-effective solution to display analog process, temperature, load cell, and potentiometer inputs.
Digital programmable attenuators
Digitally controlled programmable attenuators are commonly used in electronic warfare, military and space communication systems, radar and test and measurement applications.
Air-driven liner pump
The Flex-I-Liner pump is designed for use in remote areas where electricity is unavailable or when a spark may ignite the substance being pumped.
Smart, connected inventory management fuels more efficient service teams
To address the frustrations associated with lost tools and provide a way for users to completely customize the experience they have with their tools, Milwaukee Tool developed the first digital platform that can communicate directly with tools.
Electromechanical switches for demanding applications
Single Pole Double Throw RF electromechanical switches that cover broadband frequencies from DC to 8 GHz and are ideal in demanding industries and applications.
Recommended practice for motor repair re-approved as ANSI standard
Standard outlines practices to be followed to maintain motor reliability and efficiency.
The value of VSDs in improving efficiency
The injection molding industry shows how valuable variable frequency drives can be in reducing costs and meeting environment standards.
Sound design principles result in better safety, reliability
Key factors may be underestimated or overlooked if an electrical engineer takes an overly narrow view of the project or makes unrealistic assumptions instead of doing thorough research. A holistic approach, on the contrary, considers four key strategies during the planning process.
Top 5 Plant Engineering articles, November 16-22: Product of the Year Finalists, Applying predictive maintenance, A hot problem, cool solution, more.
Articles about the 2015 Product of the Year finalists, applying predictive maintenance, a hot problem, a cool solution, electrical noise and EMI, and predictive maintenance: analyze data were Plant Engineering's five most clicked articles from last week, November 16-22. Were you out last week? You can catch up here.
Triple outlet power supply
The MX180T is a 357 W triple outlet power supply with eight ranges.
Mechanical repairs play a key role in motor repair and reliability
EASA AR100 details steps to take to clean, repair, and test equipment.
Condition monitoring drives for predictive maintenance
Sensonode Blue and Scout Mobile condition monitoring drives for predictive maintenance.
Laser process heads for high-speed cutting applications
The G6 series and PHF-25 laser process heads have medium and high output powers that are ideal for cutting applications and laser welding of plastic.
Dust Collection Equipment Webcast: Your questions answered
Webcast presenters Kirt Boston and Chrissy Klocker answered additional questions on topics such as industries that use dust collection systems and the estimated life on a standard filter cartridge.
Sealed lights for industrial applications
The LE Series of sealed lights features rugged IP65-rated housing, strobe and constant operation capability, and aluminum extrusion T-slot mounting for industrial applications.
Laser diode series for electrical, maintenance applications
Laser diode series features an emission wavelength of 520nm for embedded solutions, cameras, and head-up displays.
Color light measurement sensor
The LEX-1000 color light measurement sensor is designed to measure light sources and illuminated objects.
High power limiters for electrical applications
Coaxial high power RF wave limiters for electrical industries such as instrumentation, fiber optic communication systems, and point-to-point radio.
Absorption cooling makes sense
Each area and application is different, but in many places the absorption solution has become much more attractive and will bear reconsideration over an electric chiller.
USB digital IO module for industrial environments
The USB-DIO24-CTR6 is a multifunction USB device that can be used in light, motion, and process control applications.
Enclosures for protecting electrical components
The Ultimate series of enclosures protect electrical and electronic components from harsh environments.
Multiple instrument station for universal testing
The Multiple Instrument Station (MIS4) combines eight laboratory instruments for universal testing as well as eight programmable I/O channels.
Power amplifiers for demanding industrial environments
Power amplifiers have frequencies ranging from 0.5 MHz to 20 GHz and can operate in harsh industrial environments.
Portable Spot Air Conditioners in Industrial Applications: Your questions answered
Webcast presenter Jim Magallanes answers more viewer questions.
Optimizing electrical systems through IIoT
New technology, new works will expand the use of condition monitoring.
Integrated drive systems Webcast: Your questions answered
Siemens experts offer additional insights into how variable frequency drives (VFDs) provide greater system efficiency.
Hub-style servo gearboxes
The design and hub-style output is ideal for equipment that requires high-speed, high-precision indexing movement.
Evaluating low and medium voltage motor starting devices
Voltage fluctuations not only affect performance, it can also put the safety of electrical devices and users at risk. That’s where motor starting devices come into play. They ensure electrical equipment gives optimum performance and lasts lifetime despite worst case line voltage and load conditions.
Mini display port cable assemblies and adapter
Series of Mini DisplayPort cable assemblies as well as a Mini DisplayPort inline adapter are released.
Electromechanical relays for control panels
The 750R series relays are 10 amp general purpose comes with an octal base design and 1500 vrms open contact dielectric strength.
Metal-clad cables with control circuits
MC Luminary Cables are used for LED and fluorescent dimming, reducing procurement time on projects.
Firmware for mass flow meters, controllers
Newly added Gas Select COMPOSER defines personalized gas compositions for highly accurate mixed gas flow measurement
Digital compact Ethernet module
These modules are a machine-mountable solution for connecting industrial controllers to I/O devices in harsh-duty environments.
Industrial robot sales hit record in 2013
The International Federation of Robotics reported the highest number of units sold in 2013.
Adjustable X and Z axis tools
The BMT (Base Mount Tooling) standard products offer standard X and Z axis tools
Americas region remains leader in industrial chip purchases, emerging countries gain ground
Led by the U.S., OEMs in the Americas region accounted for 36.3% of global spending on industrial semiconductors in 2012, according to a report from IHS Inc.
The 2014 HVAC forecast: Warmth and growth
As AHR Expo approaches, industry optimism is high
Webcast: Arc Flash University: Safe Use of Electrical Testing Devices
The proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is a critical component of any electrical safety program, and yet proper PPE use often is overlooked, diminished, or simply disregarded by electrical workers in manufacturing.
Emerging solar markets set for rapid installation expansion through 2017
Annual PV installations are expected to increase to 10.9 GW in 2017. Thailand and Turkey are expected to lead with other markets in Europe like Poland and Russia also taking the initiative.
China’s San’an could lead in GaN LED wafer capacity by end of 2014
Chinese die vendor San’an is projected to take the lead in gallium nitride light-emitting-diode (GaN LED) wafer capacity by the end of 2014, overtaking current leader Epistar of Taiwan.
Global solar inverter shipments fall for the first time in seven quarters during Q2
Global solar PV inverter shipments declined for the first time since 2011 because of falling demand in Europe, but optimism remains high for a rebound because of high demand in the Americas and Asia.
The third option when facing switchgear issues
Modernization may be an alternative to the common repair vs. replace choices
Yingli solidifies dominance in global solar module market
Yingli shipped 1,450 MW worth of solar modules in the first half of 2013, which is up 7% from the same period in 2012 as the company remains the driving force in the PV module business.
External power adapter and charger market to rise 19% by 2014
The external power adapter and charger market is expected to rise 19% by 2014 because of growth in the smartphone, video game, and tablet markets.
GaN LED shipments to exceed 100 billion units this year
IMS Research reports that more than 100 billion Gallium Nitride light-emitting diodes will ship in 2013 and revenue is expected to pass the $10 billion mark.
Solar industry capital expenditures set to rebound as emerging economies boost production
IHS reports that the solar industry will rise by 30% to $3 billion in 2014 because of increased sales in emerging economies in South America, Africa, and the Middle East.
2.5 GW of residential PV energy storage to be installed by 2017
IHS reports that the residential PV market is expected to reach 2.5 GW of storage by 2017 because of reduced costs and tariffs, particularly in Europe.
Global solar module pricing stabilizes in Q1; some suppliers to return to profitability in 2013
IHS reports that global gross margins for PV modules rose 1% in the first quarter of 2013 and is expected to reach 6% by the end of the year.
1.3 GW of PV installations eliminated by EU anti-dumping duties in 2013; double-digit global growth still likely
IHS reports that European PV installations are expected to fall 6 GW in 2013, but the overall growth is projected to be at a double-digit rate because of very strong demand from Asia.
Global solar power inverter market revenue to fall 5% in 2013
The global market for solar photovoltaic inverters is forecast to decrease by 5%to $6.7 billion in 2013
World relays market fell in 2012, expected to recover this year
Growth is expected to return to all regional markets in 2013, which will result in global revenues increasing by 5.2% to reach $3.54 billion.
Industrial barcode reader
The DataMan 300 industrial barcode readers feature eight integrated light banks and an intelligent tuning feature for automatic calibration to any setting
Enclosure fan kits and exhaust grilles
The STEGO enclosure filter fans and exhaust grille line is designed to provide optimum climate in enclosures
Inductive sensor detects objects, distance measurement up to 12 mm
The robust IWRR/IFRR Inductive Sensors from Baumer for object detection and distance measurement up to 12 mm are IP67 and/or IP69-rated and sealed against moisture and contaminants and easily withstand temperature ranges from -40 to +80ºC.
Sensor mounting posts, clamps
Posts with scales enable precise positioning of mounted devices and are constructed of 304 stainless steel, laser-marked with metric scale and are available in diameters from 10 to 25 mm and lengths from 100 to 300 mm. Strut post clamps are directly mountable to commonly specified photoelectric sensors.
Magnetic cylinder sensors
Magnetic T- and C-slot cylinder sensors that provide discrete output regarding the end-of-stroke position of pistons in pneumatic cylinders are suitable for automated equipment applications where piston position must be closely monitored.
Copper cable assemblies
These copper cable assemblies are designed for enterprise networking, computing and storage applications where speed, distance and data volume are primary concerns.
Photoelectric sensors – 2008-10-09
The ML7 series miniature photoelectric sensors are IP67 and IP69K protection classes, with designed uses in the food and beverage industry. The housing protects against water jet pressures up to 1450 psi and temperatures up to 176 F, which is the required temperature to clean equipment used in meat, fish, poultry and dairy processing. The sensors are 31x23x11 millimeter and are available in five operating modes including diffuse, diffuse with background suppression, retro-reflective, retro-reflective for clear object detection and thru-beam.
Electrical wire
Intended for general purpose applications, THHN building wire is 19-strand, 600-V uncoated copper wire available in gauge sizes ranging from 4 to14.
Electrical connectors
EMT fittings and couplings are suitable for use in varying applications and come in eight colors.
Photoelectric sensors – 2008-01-15
GLV18 Econo-Vue photoelectric sensors are available in straight and right-angled housings, cabled and quick disconnect versions, and come standard with a flush-mount bracket to create a custom look on panel mounts. Sixty-four sensor models are available in five different sensing modes, which provide sensing ranges up to 20 meters, making them suitable for many photoelectric sensing application.
Emerson acquires Decision Management International
DMI’s software and expertise will expand Emerson’s real-time manufacturing solutions and broaden its spectrum of process facilities.
Upcoming coverage in the August issue of PLANT ENGINEERING
PLANT ENGINEERING magazine helps keep you ahead of the curve. Here’s a preview of the upcoming August issue.
Photoelectric sensors – 2007-06-29
The V18 Series of photoelectric sensors is available in fiber-optic and background suppression versions, offering visible red and Class 2 laser light sources with adjustable focus and sensitivity settings.
Photoelectric sensors – 2007-06-20
The V18 Series of photoelectric sensors is available in fiber-optic and background suppression versions, offering visible red and Class 2 laser light sources with adjustable focus and sensitivity settings.
High-voltage cold-shrink termination
Cold-shrink silicone rubber termination kits QT-III, 7672-S-8 (RW) for 69/72,5 kV are designed for indoor or outdoor use. They meet or exceed the requirements of IEC 60840 for 72,5 kV, and solid dielectric insulation, such as PE, XLPE and EPR-shielded, high-voltage cables. The termination requires no tools or heat source, and its light weight means that a crane is not required to install it.
Solid-state transducers
OMEGA's PX209 (cable style) and PX219 (connector style) transducers deliver consistent accuracy in small, stainless steel cases-with either 0 to 5 Vdc, 0 to 10 Vdc, or 4 to 20 mA outputs. A four-active-arm bridge sensor employs a micro-machined diffused silicon diaphragm, proprietary thin-film media, and dielectric isolation barriers.
Electric heater offers fast thermal response and long life
Quartz heater uses ceramic-metal thick-film technology to provide extremely fast thermal response and heat output in a compact package. Versatile line offers significantly longer life than infrared or other types of conductive heating technologies.
Resisting high temperatures
Resbond 908 moistureproof adhesive insulates and protects up to 3000°F. Physical properties include thermal conductivity of 15 Btu/in./hr/deg F/sq ft, dielectric strength of 250 V/mil, and volume resistivity of 10(super 12) ohm-cm.
Fire detectors
An 8-p brochure explains how FirePrint fire detectors combine the effects of photoelectric and thermal detection to sense both smoke and heat. This technology recognizes the traits of nearly every conceivable fire hazard. Siemens-Cerberus Div.
Light fixture resists corrosion and breakage
Protect-O-Globes are virtually unbreakable and provide the protection of metal guards with total corrosion resistance.
Enclosure comparison
A 4-p brochure compares performance of fiber glass to other nonmetallic and metallic materials used in manufacturing enclosures.
Photoelectric sensors for harsh environments
E58 harsh-duty photoelectric sensors withstand the demanding applications and rigors of harsh environments. They tolerate high-pressure, high-temperature washdown, chemical attack, abrasion, heavy vibration, and high shock.
Monitor detects moisture in dry solids
HydraSense I/L moisture monitor is a high-precision, continuous analyzer for bound-moisture content, particularly dry solids in process.
Electric pressure washers
A line of all-electric hot water pressure washers and steam cleaners certified to UL standard 1776 (High Pressure Cleaning Machines) is detailed in an 8-p brochure. The line includes explosion-proof models. Sioux Steam Cleaner Corp. www.siouxsteam.com
Color sensors
A 6-p brochure introduces a line of color-sensitive photoelectric sensors. These sensors accurately detect extremely minute differences between up to four highly similar colors, even subtly varying shades of white.
Grand finale for production in ’97
We can applaud the performance of the U.S. industrial economy as we set the stage for 1998. Overall industrial output for 1997 rose a hearty 5% over 1996 levels. Industrial production for December 1997 was 6% higher than December 1996.
