SLOPED TOP TYPE 4X STAINLESS STEEL WALLMOUNT ENCLOSURE
Hammond Manufacturing has introduced a ST SS series Type 4X stainless steel wallmount enclosure with a sloped top and quarter turn hinged door. The sloped top of the Eclipse model prevents water from resting on top as well as providing potential for controls mounting. A wide range of sizes and practical accessories are available, the company says. Standards of the series include UL 508A Type 3R, 4, 4X and 12, as well as CSA Type 3R, 4, 4X and 12. Units comply with NEMA 3R, 4, 4X, 12 and 13, and IEC 60529, IP 66, while certification include UL File # E65324 and CSA Cert. # LR21001. The formed 14-gauge 304 stainless steel construction has continuously welded seams ground smooth.
RJ45 CONNECTOR VERSION FACILITATES ACCESS TO THE IIOT
HARTING has introduced the RJ Industrial Multi Feature connector — said to be a significantly improved version of the classic RJ45. Thanks to a robust metal housing and integrated knives that automatically shorten the strands to the correct length during assembly, the company says, handling is greatly simplified. The usability for flexible and rigid wires from AWG 26 to 22, the robust cable fastening and the angled connector with variable cable outlet direction are all additional features said to offer great benefits for customers. Watch assembly demonstration at www.cpec.news/cc1.
HARTING Canada www.harting.cawww.cpec.news/ig6
COMPACT LEVEL SENSORS WITH 80 GHZ RADAR ALLOW FOR SAFE MEASUREMENT
The LevelMaster Capacitive Sensor from Rechner is said to be a high-performance sensor designed to solve applications with highly conductive or viscous products such as ketchup or honey. The sensor has no moving parts and accurate level control can be accomplished with either digital or analog (4 to 20 mA) output. The LED is a 2-colour device for viewing of operation status. The onboard electronics includes Easy Teach by Wire (ETW) for simple and efficient set up, the company says. If EHEDG (European Hygienic Engineering & Design Group) is required, the company is said to have the appropriate mounting hardware. The housing is IP67, IP69K and is designed for clean
www.cpec.news/z7j.
Rechner www.rechner.comwww.cpec.news/re5 w T s b c n is T w R w
Wastewater Management
Compact level sensors from VEGA with 80 GHz radar technology are said to provide reliable measurement results under all conditions. The VEGAPULS sensors, as well as switches and controllers, provide level, point level, and pressure measurement instrumentation. Due to their physical measuring principle, ultrasonic sensors are inherently exposed to influences because the sound running time changes with temperature, e.g. due to solar radiation and gas composition. Even in heavy fog, wind or rain, the sound waves are additionally attenuated and the measuring range further restricted. Radar sensors, however, are unaffected by temperature, pressure or vacuum and provide correct readings. Radar sensors also allow a safe measurement up to the sensor antenna, even in case of flooding. Due to the process, flooding of the sensors occurs in some applications. Ultrasonic sensors are therefore often protected by mechanical flooding sleeves. However, such components can easily become contaminated and impair the reliability of the measurement. Radar sensors have no dead zone, do not require protective sleeves and measure reliably even in case of flooding. Watch video demonstration at www.cpec.news/e2l.
VEGA www.vega.com www.cpec.news/zup
Simple PLC control ...on STEROIDS!
Stackable I/O Modules
Add up to 8 additional I/O modules for applications with larger I/O needs.
Built-in Option Module Slot
For custom stand-alone PLC I/O configurations that exactly match your application (option module sold separately).
CPU unit starting at only $89
We’ve taken our most practical, most popular PLC family and supercharged it with features you wouldn’t expect from a simple low-cost controller. Data logging, Wi-Fi connectability, MQTT communication and increased security measures are just a few of the impressive features offered with the new CLICK PLUS PLC series. With a starting at price of only $89.00 and free easy-peasy programming software, CLICK PLUS PLCs are a “must have” for simple, affordable control...with a kick!
Orders over $49 get FAST FREE SHIPPING
policies
Fast free standard shipping* is available for most orders over $49 U.S., and that includes the brokerage fees (when using an AutomationDirect nominated broker). Using our choice of carrier, we can reach most Canadian destinations within 2 to 3 days.
*Free shipping does not apply to items requiring LTL transport, but those shipments can take advantage of our negotiated super-low at rates (based on weight) that include brokerage fees.
See Web site for details and restrictions at: www.automationdirect.com/canada
Editor’s Forum
When it comes to discussions about the environment in Canada (a theme this issue), oilsands development in Alberta is frequently a topic. Who is overseeing this petroleum generator towards a sustainable future?
In the new CAPP (Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers) report, Canada's Natural Gas and Oil Emissions: Ongoing Reductions, Demonstrable Improvement, (www. cpec.news/mbe) it says that while production from Oil Sands In Situ facilities grew by 66 per cent from
2013 to 2019, emissions intensity dropped by 8 per cent. The report also adds that from 2013 to 2019 oil sands mining production increased 59 per cent as emissions intensity decreased by 14 per cent.
While CAPP isn't just an oil sands-specific association, one has just been formed that includes some of its members. Canadian Natural Resources, Cenovus Energy, Imperial, MEG Energy and Suncor Energy formally announced the Oil Sands Pathways to Net Zero initiative (www.cpec.news/dq8). These com-
panies operate approximately 90 percent of Canada's oil sands production. The goal of this unique alliance, working collectively with the federal and Alberta governments, is to achieve net zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from oil sands operations by 2050 to help Canada meet its climate goals, including its Paris Agreement commitments and 2050 net zero aspirations.
Here's to the Pathways alliance and CAPP playing nice in our oil sandbox. Mike Edwards medwards@cpecn.com
Founder Ray Blair
Beamex has introduced a CMX analytics dashboard to help users more easily analyze trends and identify productivity and efficiency improvements as well as opportunities for cost savings. The dashboard gives users a visual overview of the data contained in CMX Calibration Management Software, displaying it in easy-to-read reports. The software is an automated, paperless solution that is said to help the user plan, manage, analyze, and document all calibration work and assets safely and efficiently. It is automated and easy to use, the company says, reducing the time and cost of calibration work while removing the risk of human error and minimizing the risk of non-compliance. The business benefits of a paperless calibration system are significant. The entire calibration process – from initial recording of calibration data to historical trend analysis – will take less time, virtually eliminating mistakes and manual errors, which results in higher quality of gathered data. In turn, this means that operators, engineers and management will have more confidence in the data. The new analytics dashboard pulls information from the CMX database and shows it in Microsoft Power BI, a tool for visualizing data. The analytics dashboard can also be viewed on a smartphone. The analytics report includes the most commonly used analytics, including calibration KPIs, reference standards, calibrator traceability, work order management, and scheduling. Watch introductory video at www.cpec.news/y0y.
Beamex Calibration Solutions
www.beamex.com
www.cpec.news/9dk
MODULAR SAFETY RELAY SYSTEM PERMITS CUSTOMIZATION BEFORE DELIVERY
Pilz Automation Safety Canada has launched myPNOZ, a modular safety relay. Users can create their own safety features, while Pilz assembles, tests, and delivers a safety relay batch size 1 ready to plug and play, the company says. The modular safety relay offers many benefits, including time and cost savings. Three steps are taken to customize the modular safety relay. In step one, the user chooses the required safety functions, and the myPNOZ Creator software tool puts the optimized hardware together. Users can check their configuration with the simulation function. If everything fits, the relay is ordered with a few clicks. In step two, each relay is tailor-made pre-assembled by Pilz in batch size 1 according to the user’s individual configuration. In step three, the users receive their relay ready for Plug and Play, the company says, with no software required for commissioning. Watch introductory video at www.cpec.news/t2v.
Pilz Automation Safety Canada
www.pilz.com/en-CA/ www.cpec.news/m9m
TUBING FOR MEDICAL DEVICE AND BIOPROCESSING APPLICATIONS
Qosina offers a wide selection of in-stock and custom medical-grade tubing for medical device and bioprocessing applications. The company can carry packaged small coils for prototyping and extended lengths for large-scale production requirements. There are more than 150 options available in a variety of brands, diameters, types, and materials, the company says. Bulk medical tubing is available in a variety of materials like DEHP-free PVC, TPE, FEP, high-density polyethylene, platinum-cured silicone, and peroxide-cured silicone. Also available is a large selection of disposable medical-grade silicone tubing. Qosina
www.qosina.com
www.cpec.news/61y
Level & pressure measurement in water supply and water treatment
Questions about sensors in water/wastewater applications frequently come up in conversation. Radar, ultrasonic, connectivity and controller technologies are popular; below I address some FAQs to help you succeed in your applications.
By Jürgen Skowaisa
1Overfill protection
Is one radar sensor sufficient to provide level measurement and overfill protection at the same time?
Yes, one sensor is sufficient. VEGAPULS radar sensors are approved as overfill protection according to WHG (an official German environmental protection overfill standard) for exactly these cases.
When do I need additional overfill protection?
In general, a redundant solution obviously provides more security. VEGA radar sensors, however, also meet all requirements as a stand-alone solution. They are approved according to WHG (Water Resources Act) and provide a high level of safety and accuracy. Even the most noxious, corrosive gases or turbulent surfaces have no influence on the measurement.
What does the “Ü” symbol on the sensor mean?
The purpose of the “Ü” symbol on the sensor housing is to help with identification, because only VEGA radar sensors that are marked with a “Ü” have WHG approval as an overfill protection device.
2
Extreme application areas
How do radar sensors react to waves?
The influence of waves or turbulent water surfaces is minimal. With their very wide dynamic range, VEGAPULS radar sensors measure even the smallest signals and can therefore compensate for water movement very well. Moving surfaces are a standard feature in water applications: Regardless of whether a container is being filled or water is simply flowing through a pump shaft. Radar sensors calculate a reliable average value from multiple reflected signals.
Do the sensors measure through surface sludge?
Sludge is very compact and cannot be measured through. However, the surface height of the sludge can be detected accurately, allowing a reliable
level measurement.
In contrast to foam, which is generally easier to measure through, this does not work with sludge. If it is necessary to determine the exact height of the sludge, this can be done by combining a radar sensor and a pressure sensor. In such cases, the radar sensor detects the sludge surface; the pressure sensor detects the water level using hydrostatic pressure. The differential indicates the thickness of the sludge because its density is significantly different from that of water.
Do radar sensors also measure bulk solids?
All new VEGAPULS sensors are also suitable for measuring bulk solids. When selecting an instrument version, you can decide whether it is to be used for liquids or for bulk solids. The measuring ranges are the same for liquids and solids. The radar sensors are not only suitable for water and wastewater, but also for other media. From water-based products, chemicals, acids and alkalies to auxiliary substances used in the wastewater industry and chemical products. They can also be used in all kinds of bulk solids applications. Thanks to their very good focusing, they are ideal for use in segmented containers, and for all kinds of bulk solids, like building materials, grain and many others.
Are the pressure sensors resistant to acids and alkalies?
The compact pressure sensors can be used for a variety of measuring tasks; the combination of stainless steel and ceramic covers a wide range of applications. VEGA has many pressure sensors in its product catalogue for applications with especially aggressive media. These are available in a wide variety of materials and versions for extreme requirements: from Hastelloy to special sealing materials.
3Link options
Are there signal outputs other than 4 ... 20 mA? The sensors are available in different versions. The compact versions with the industry-typical 4 ... 20 mA. The cable versions with 4 ... 20 mA direct signal output, but also with other
Continued on page 16
Connection possibilities include the typical 4 ... 20 mA interface in some sensor models and Modbus. Profinet is not currently available, but VEGA two-wire sensors as well as controllers will eventually implement the standard. Watch customer video at www.cpec.news/yux.
Schneider Electric assists food giant on path to Carbon Neutrality
As a leading North American producer of meat and plant proteins, Maple Leaf’s path to carbon neutrality is predicated on aggressively reducing emissions by meeting the gold standard of widely respected Science Based Targets, which align global greenhouse gas emission reductions with the goals of the Paris Agreement on Climate Change. In doing so, the company becomes one of just three animal protein companies in the world to set Science Based Targets, approved by the international Science Based Target Initiative.
“There is simply no more time to waste. The devastating impact of climate change on our planet must be confronted head-on by business leaders with decisive and immediate action,” said Michael McCain, Maple Leaf Foods president and CEO.
In 2019, Maple Leaf Foods Inc. announced a massive step forward on its sustainability journey, as it becomes the first major food company in the world to be carbon neutral. The company’s announcement acknowledges the impact of the global food system on the environment and the urgent need for transformative change to reduce global greenhouse gas emissions to zero.
Maple Leaf has made significant progress towards its goal to reduce its environmental footprint by 50 percent by 2025 — an aggressive environmental target in the industry. Since 2015, the company has reduced over 86 million kilowatt hours of electricity — equal to 12,912 passenger vehicles driven for one year — and over 4.3 million m3 of natural gas, which equals annual energy usage for 1,000 homes. Through its water conservation efforts, Maple Leaf has reduced water usage by over 1.2 billion litres. By committing to setting Science Based Targets, Maple Leaf will work even more aggressively to reduce greenhouse gas emissions across its operations and more broadly within its supply chain.
As part of becoming carbon neutral, the company is also investing in credible and independently verified, high-impact environmental projects throughout Canada and the U.S. to address its remaining carbon footprint, bringing it to zero. These projects support wind energy, recovering methane gas from landfills, composting and biomass programs to reduce methane emissions, and forest protection and re-forestry to conserve species and biodiversity.
“Maple Leaf Foods is showing tremendous sustainability leadership,” said John Powers, VP of Strategic Renewables for Schneider Electric, which advised on the selection of environmental projects. “They are making a substantial commitment, and in doing so, creating a path for others in the industry to create and act on bold environmental goals.
“Consumers rightfully expect business and political leaders to solve these problems and address the profound consequences of our climate crisis. We hope our actions inspire food companies and businesses broadly to join us in the critical fight against climate change.”
To assist in reaching its sustainability goals, EcoStruxure Resource Advisor from Schneider Electric has been implemented at Maple Leaf Foods. According to David Hughes, director, Client Development — Renewables & Cleantech at Schneider Electric, “we value them as a strategic client in a lot of different applications across software and advisory services in terms of navigating the landscape and procuring energy, environmental commodities, renewable energy, as well as offsets as part of their story to make that (carbon neutrality) claim. The EcoStruxure Resource Advisor is another critical piece.”
Based on an open, interoperable software architecture, Resource Advisor is designed to evolve with an organization’s critical energy and sustainability needs. Sustainability teams have access to a library of templates for reporting frameworks, such as CDP, GRESB and GRI, and can map data to multiple frameworks that require similar information. Leveraging the power of Resource Advisor, Schneider says, sustainability, finance and energy teams can collaborate, identify inefficiencies and drive performance using a common, clean data set.
On November 7, 2020, Maple Leaf Foods marked one year as the world’s first major carbon neutral food company and the first food company in Canada to set Science-Based Targets. By the end of 2020,
Continued on next page
We understand the challenge of finding the right balance between plant efficiency and compliance with industry standards and legal requirements.
OBSERVE
+ CONSERVE
You meet your e�ciency goals and reduce costs without compromising on water quality.
• Measure reliably – independent of flow profile and mounting location
• The first and only electromagnetic flowmeter with no inlet and outlet runs (0 x DN) as well as no pipe restriction (full-bore design) and thus no pressure loss
• Installation directly after bends, perfect for space-restricted areas and on skids
The Prepped and Ready portfolio packaging from Maple Leaf Foods uses Halopack, an eco-friendly material that combines 90 percent recycled paperboard and 83 percent less plastic.
Proline Promag W 0 x DN full bore – The world’s first electromagnetic flowmeter for unrestricted measurements
Sustainability path vision at Maple Leaf Foods
the company had reduced the intensity of its environmental footprint by: 25.9 percent for electricity, 19.5 percent for natural gas, 21.6 percent for water (2014 baseline); 12.1 per cent for solid waste (2015 baseline) and 30.9 per cent for food loss waste (2016 baseline). It also diverted 91.6 per cent of waste that would ordinarily go to landfills.
“Because Maple Leaf Foods has measured their carbon footprint and has done a really comprehensive greenhouse gas inventory, and they’re managing that data in EcoStruxure Resource Advisor, they have gone out and purchased renewable energy for 100 percent of their electricity and also purchased voluntary carbon offsets to neutralize their emissions from their Scope 1 and part of their Scope 3 emissions.”
Resource Advisor creates a data path across an enterprise through to the supply chain (watch video at www.cpec.news/wdf). Right: Maple Leaf Foods projects that currently address its carbon footprint.
For more on Maple Leaf Foods, visit www.mapleleaffoods.com/carbonstrategy. See www.resourceadvisor.com and watch video at www.cpec.news/wdf for more on EcoStruxure Resource Advisor. Schneider Electric Canada
www.se.com/ca/
www.cpec.news/po8 Continued from previous page
1
St. Leon Wind Energy Manitoba, Canada 99 MW wind energy project from 63 turbines.
2
Brady Wind I North Dakota, USA 149.7 MW wind energy project from 87 turbines
3
Spartanburg Land ll Gas South Carolina, USA Creates renewable fuel via methane collection and destruction.
4
ONLINE AND PORTABLE INSTRUMENTATION
Multi Parameter Single – Dual – Multi-Channel-Wireless
Optical Fluorescence Dissolved Oxygen
Near Infra Red Total Suspended Solids
pH, ORP
Microwave Density
Ultrasonic Interface Level
Spectrophotometric Online
FLOWMETERING
Ultrasonic Doppler – Transit Time
Insertion/Immersion/Clamp-On
University Energy Ef ciency & Renewable Energy Projects Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, Oregon, USA Pioneers on-campus emissions reduction projects.
Solutions For WAS TEWATER TREATMENT
5
AIM Environmental Waste Diversion Project Ontario, Canada Converts organic residues from 3 municipal collection sites to quality compost.
Venture/Flume Partially Filled Conduit
Non Contact Radar
WASTEWATER SAMPLERS
Indoor or Outdoor
Refrigerated or Non-Refrigerated
Portable or Stationary
SEPTAGE RECEIVING SYSTEMS
Integrated Billing System
ADDITIONAL SOLUTIONS FOR:
6
Merom Farms Biomass to Energy British Columbia, Canada
Commercially produces ~11 million pounds of peppers annually. Uses waste biomass as fuel and reduces GHG emissions.
7
Energy Ef ciency and Solid Waste Diversion Activities Within the Quebec Sustainable Community Quebec, Canada
Micro-project series that allows communities to address emissions and reduce carbon.
Fully Automated Control and Data Collection
8 Massachusetts Tri-City Forestry Massachusetts, USA
Improves 17,000 acres of public forest land. Generates forest revenue without resorting to timber harvesting.
9
Darkwoods Forest Carbon Project British Columbia, Canada
Protects 135,400 forest acres and 39 protected species. Generates forest revenue without resorting to timber harvesting.
10 Avoidance of Methane Emissions at Organic Compost Soil Amendment Facility* Alabama, USA Creates high-potency, organic compost from chicken manure.
Industry News
PAPER EXCELLENCE PROPOSES $350M OVERHAUL OF KRAFT PULP MILL
Paper Excellence of Richmond, BC, is proposing a complete transformation of Northern Pulp Nova Scotia Corp., a producer of high-quality Northern Bleached Softwood Kraft pulp at its kraft pulp mill in Pictou County that is used in the manufacturing of a variety of products from tissue and paper towels to food additives and packaging.
Installation of a new tertiary effluent treatment system, consisting of rotating disc filters, will ensure the highest quality water release and colour removal, the company says. The continuously operating tertiary treatment will be the second of
its kind in Canada.
The project involves converting the recovery boiler to a lowodour configuration, as well as installing a new wet electrostat-
ic precipitator to remove fine particles from being released into the air.
The mill operated for more
RESEARCHERS IN GERMANY, CANADA WORK ON NEW AI METHODS FOR PICKING ROBOTS
Production, warehouse, shipping — where goods are produced, stored, sorted or packed, picking also takes place. This means that several individual goods are removed from storage units such as boxes or cartons and reassembled.
In
With the FLAIROP (Federated Learning for Robot Picking) project Festo and researchers from the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), together with partners from Canada, want to make picking robots smarter using distributed AI methods. To do this, they are investigating how to use training data from multiple stations, from multiple plants, or even companies without requiring participants to hand over sensitive company data.
“We are investigating how the most versatile training data possible from multiple locations can be used to develop more robust and efficient solutions using artificial intelligence algorithms than with data from just one robot,” says Jonathan Auberle from the Institute of Material Handling and Logistics (IFL) at KIT. “Through the approach of federated learning, we balance data diversity and data security in an industrial environment."
“In the FLAIROP research project, we are developing new ways for robots to learn from each other without sharing sensitive data and company secrets,” explains Jan Seyler, Head of Advanced Development Analytics and Control at Festo SE & Co. KG. Waterloo, ON-based start-up DarwinAI and the University of Waterloo from Canada are further partners. The FLAIROP Canadian project partners focus on object recognition through Deep Learning, Explainable AI, and optimization, while the German partners contribute their expertise in robotics, autonomous grasping through Deep Learning, and data security.
“DarwinAI is thrilled to provide our Explainable (XAI) platform to the FLAIROP project and pleased to work with such esteemed Canadian and German academic organizations and our industry partner, Festo,” says Sheldon Fernandez, CEO, DarwinAI. DarwinAI
than six decades prior to its hibernation in January 2020. It is clear to Paper Excellence that future mill operations and processes — from community engagement and transparency to forestry practices and addressing odour, air, and water emissions — must be better than the mill of yesterday.
The company has filed the project description for the effluent treatment system including tertiary treatment with Nova Scotia Environment and Climate Change. Northern Pulp N.S. www.tomorrowsmill.ca
EIL OF CALGARY ACQUIRES UK'S HRS HEAT EXCHANGERS
Calgary-based Exchanger Industries Limited (EIL), a designer and manufacturer of heat transfer products for the energy, petrochemical, industrial and clean power generation sectors, has acquired HRS Heat Exchangers Ltd. (HRS). Financial terms were not disclosed.
HRS of Watford, UK, is an international specialist supplier of heat exchangers and custom process systems across the environmental, food, beverage, and pharmaceutical sectors. The veteran HRS management team will be retained by EIL and play a critical role in executing plans for international expansion. Watch EIL video at www. cpec.news/7x6.
10X as accurate, extremely light weight, and none of the paper and pen hassles of chart recorders
• Log pressure up to 10,000 psi (70 MPa) at 0.1% of reading
• Log temperature wirelessly from up to 300 feet (100 meters) away
• Customize tests for any length of time and automatically shut down when finished
• Download data via wireless or USB to your PC with included FieldLab Desktop Software
• View test data live on the FieldLab display
• Create and customize reports to include all reference info, graphs of pressure and temperature readings, DUT data, customer info, and more
• Record pressure and temperature per Transport Canada, US DOT, API, ASME, or European standards
Visit ralstoninst.com/cpn-htk or scan the QR code to find out more
+1-440-564-1430 | (US/CA) 800-347-6575
The kraft pulp mill in Nova Scotia's Pictou will be transformed.
the research project FLAIROP, the robots are trained with different articles in separate locations.
Industry News
VEGA SENSORS A TRIPLE WINNER OF THE RED DOT DESIGN AWARD
VEGA Grieshaber KG of Schiltach in Germany’s Black Forest has received the Red Dot Design Award 2021 for three new compact sensors of the VEGAPULS, VEGABAR and VEGAPOINT series.
The best solution is the simplest one possible, explains managing director Rainer Waltersbacher. “VEGA is simple. We are known for this core idea, and we’ve brought it to perfection in product design.” VEGA Instruments Canada is located in Toronto.
VEGA’s approach is based on many years of experience and lots of thorough research, which ultimately ensures that a new product will be able to perform all functions required of it. The central aim, says Waltersbacher, is “to make the
best solution as simple as possible for the user.”
Explaining their reasoning for the award, the jury emphasized the unique combination of precision and simplicity in the sensors. They were especially impressed by the “sophisticated design” and “well thought-out handling”, because only these features can ensure “absolute process reliability."
VEGA www.vega.com
COMING THIS YEAR IN
PROCESS SPECIALIST KAYE TEAMS WITH ALPHA CONTROLS
Kaye, a subsidiary of Amphenol Corporation, has launched a distribution partnership with Markham, ON-based distributor Alpha Controls & Instrumentation to expand its geographical footprint.
For more than sixty years, it is said that Kaye has been at the forefront of high accuracy process measurement, for applications from thermal process validation, environmental and cold chain monitoring, to sensor calibration.
Editorial closing date: September 3
December Issue Focus on... Plant Automation Supplement: Fittings & Couplings
Editorial closing date: October 22
CONTACT: MIKE EDWARDS, EDITOR EDITOR@CPECN.COM 905.251.5524
ASK ABOUT NEWSLETTER SUBMISSIONS, TOO
The Kaye product range, to be distributed by Alpha Controls, is said to be relied upon by global pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies to validate and monitor critical sterilization processes as required by governing regulatory bodies.
For applications from thermal process validation and environmental monitoring to sensor calibration, Kaye technology is said to provide the most accurate and user-friendly measuring systems available.
The Kaye product range is designed to meet the demanding requirements for process improvement, thermal validation and reporting. Alpha Controls & Instrumentation www.alphacontrols.com
Hammond Power Solutions Inc. (HPS) of Guelph, ON, has acquired a 100% equity ownership of Mesta Electronics Inc., a company in N. Huntington, PA. Mesta is involved in the design and manufacture of standard and custom active filter and induction heating products.
Bill Hammond, CEO of HPS stated, “We are very pleased with the Mesta acquisition. This company broadens our product offering and manufacturing capabilities in power quality solutions. Mesta has an excellent reputation in the electrical industry for its standard and engineered to order capabilities and quality.”
HPS would like to welcome the Mesta organization and look forward to our collaborative success in power quality solutions. Hammond Power Solutions www.hammondpowersolutions.com HPS ACQUIRES MESTA ELECTRONICS
Kaye's metrology laboratory.
Industry News
CANADA’S LARGEST OIL SANDS PRODUCERS FORM ALLIANCE TO ACHIEVE NET ZERO GHG EMISSIONS
Canadian Natural Resources, Cenovus Energy, Imperial, MEG Energy and Suncor Energy formally announced in Calgary the Oil Sands Pathways to Net Zero initiative. These companies operate approximately 90 percent of Canada’s oil sands production.
The goal of this unique alliance, working collectively with the federal and Alberta governments, is to achieve net zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from oil sands operations by 2050 to help Canada meet its climate goals, including its Paris Agreement commitments and 2050 net zero aspirations. (Watch video at www.cpec.news/nzd)
This collaborative effort follows announcements from the Government of Canada and the Government of Alberta of support programs for emissions-reduction projects and infrastructure. Collaboration between industry and government, the initiative says, will be critical to progressing the Oil Sands Pathways to Net Zero vision and achieving Canada’s climate goals.
The Pathways vision is anchored by a major Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage (CCUS) trunkline connected to a carbon sequestration hub to enable multi-sector ‘tie-in’ projects for expanded emissions reductions. The proposed CCUS system is similar to the multi-billion-dollar Longship/Northern Lights project in Norway as
well as other CCUS projects in the Netherlands, U.K. and U.S., all of which involve significant collaboration between industry and government.
Because there is no single solution to achieving net zero emissions, the initiative incorporates a number of parallel pathways to address GHG emissions. These include a core Alberta infrastructure corridor linking oil sands facilities in the Fort McMurray and Cold Lake regions to a carbon sequestration hub near Cold Lake via a CO2 trunkline. The trunkline would also be available to other industries in the region interested in capturing and sequestering CO2. There is also potential to link the infrastructure corridor to the Edmonton region.
In addition, deploying existing and emerging GHG reduction technologies at oil sands operations along the corridor will be necessary, including CCUS technology, clean hydrogen, process improvements, energy efficiency, fuel switching and electrification. Evaluating, piloting and accelerating application of potential emerging emissions-reducing technologies including direct air capture, next-generation recovery technologies and small mod-
KAISER RAMAN SPECTROGRAPHIC ANALYZERS NOW SOLD BY ENDRESS+HAUSER CANADA
Endress+Hauser of Burlington, ON, has assumed sales responsibility in Canada for the Kaiser Raman spectrographic instrumentation portfolio from Kaiser Optical Systems, Inc. The handover coincides with the introduction of the next-level, embedded Kaiser Raman Rxn analyzer suite, featuring intuitive Raman RunTime control software for 24/7 connectivity to critical data.
Kaiser, founded in 1979 and part of Endress+Hauser since 2013, is a global leader in Raman spectrographic analysis technology. Previously, Canadian customers had to work directly with Kaiser in the U.S., as they did with SpectraSensors, another U.S.-based Endress+Hauser company that specializes in TDLAS and QF analyzers. Now, both companies’ products are sold locally by Endress+Hauser Canada.
Researchers and manufacturers in the chemical, polymer, pharmaceutical, biopharmaceutical, oil & gas, and food & beverage industries require the highly accurate chemical composition measurements that Raman spectrographic analysis provides, the company says. Common applications include assessing material quality, monitoring molecular reactions, aiding basic science research, assuring product quality, and identifying unknowns.
Kaiser Raman Rxn spectrographic analyzers from Endress+Hauser Canada now feature the embedded Kaiser Raman Rxn analyzer suite with intuitive Raman RunTime control software for 24/7 connectivity to critical data.
What distinguishes the new embedded Raman Rxn analyzer suite from older systems is that it dispenses with the need to run proprietary software using a separate, standalone computer to convert raw measurements into usable data. Embedding the spectrometer functions into the analyzer electronics promotes productivity by offering a common, easy-to-use interface for use in the laboratory to process development and manufacturing. Endress+Hauser Canada www.ca.endress.com
The Pathways vision is anchored by a major Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage trunkline for sequestration. Watch introductory video from the alliance at cpec.news/un1.
ular nuclear reactors are also in the mix. While alternative energy sources will play an increasingly important role in the decades ahead, the initiative reports, all internationally recognized forecasts indicate fossil fuels will continue to be an essential requirement through 2050 and beyond as part of a diversified energy mix, including as a feedstock for carbon fibres, asphalt, plastics and other important products, the initiative reports. Oil Sands Pathways to Net Zero www.oilsandspathways.ca
RELIABLE
Since 2001, Valve Accessories & Controls has built a reputation as a company comitted to quality products, and a commitment to service, second to none.
• Pneumatic, Analog, and Digital Positioners
• Wide selection of Mounting Kits
• No Phone Mazes to Navigate
• Experienced Staff
• Service and Technical Support
Canadian Master Distributor: Belletek Controls Inc.
2535 Stallion, St. Lazare, Qc, Canada J7T 2E4
J.C. Labelle: (514) 916-5895
Fax: (514) 500-5802
Email: jc@belletek.com
DEWATERING MINES AROUND THE WORLD:
Durable, reliable and efficient pumps are in demand
Water is present everywhere in mining and its control varies according to its role in the mining processes. This in turn influences the selection of technologies used in pumping water. Alongside the safe supply and recovery of process water is the challenge of removing ground water.
Process water and groundwater contain abrasive and corrosive elements in varying quantities which have an adverse affect on pump performance and life. Working conditions, remote locations, varying temperature ranges and the lack of electric power are also highly influential factors. The copper mines in Chile and the iron ore mines in Western Australia may be many thousands of miles apart, but these mining operations still require dewatering and the safe disposal of potentially contaminated water. The same can be said of the coal mines of Mozam-
bique and the silver mines of Mexico.
What they all have in common is a requirement for efficient and effective water and slurry pumps. Well-matched solutions help to maximize the longevity and efficiency of the system and also optimize cost-performance ratios, all attributes fulfilled by KSB’s Hard Rock Mining Division.
The changing face of mining
“The dewatering market is slowly shifting from a pure CAPEX point of view to an increasingly OPEX perspective,” reports Brett Lewis, mining manager at KSB Australia. “This is especially true for the large mines that realize that poorly designed equipment that regularly fails, causes a significant increase in replacement and servicing cost. Some mining companies are now committing to a carbon neutral target in the next 20 to 30 years, so are focusing on high efficiency equipment. They want to phase out diesel reliance by connecting most bores to their local electrical grid.”
KSB is aware that mining companies are recording pump performance and are accumulating data to compare brands and better rank their qualities or deficiencies. This is good news for KSB as the company is committed to delivering high reliability and efficiency pumps, so helping to reduce the carbon footprint of mining dewatering operations.
Is there a ‘one-fits-all’ pump solution?
The answer to this is a resounding ‘no’, but by sharing experiences between offices and also frequently working with the same international mining companies, KSB has been able to develop appropriate solutions. KSB’s involvement in the iron ore industries in Brazil and Australia demonstrate two different approaches to dewatering, both employing vertical multi-stage pumps.
In Brazil’s Minas Gerais State open pit iron ore mines excessive ground water, monsoons and underground lakes are problems. To maintain continuous production water has to be pumped to a dewatering lake which has a dynamic water level that must be raised two or three times a year. KSB Brazil’s solution is a floating station fitted with KSB vertical turbine B pumps positioned over a pontoon (Fig. 1, opposite page). The pontoon rises and falls with changes in the water level so there is no need for the pumps to be repositioned. This results in cost-savings to the customer. After 20 successful years it has become the standard for this type of equipment in South America.
“The floating station supporting the pumps over the pontoon delivers the flow rate requested by the customer,” explains Jardel Ribeiro, sales manager, KSB Brazil. “Sometimes the pumps, high power motors and associated equipment results in the size of the floating station being increased. Stabilizing equipment that weighs more than 200 tons requires
a lot of planning, in addition to the challenge of building a system in such a remote area.”
Boreholes in Australia
In the Pilbara Region of Western Australia iron ore is mined in several locations around the Chichester hub zone, an area between 5 and 9 kilometers wide and 80 kilometers long. The mineral deposit sits between 90 m and 117 m below the surface. With the ground water and water table regularly replenished in wet seasons and cyclones adding to the inundation, more than 75 percent of the iron ore is below the water table. If too much water mixes with iron ore, it becomes low grade and unsuitable for export, which results in massive revenue losses. Also, surface dewatering processes are extremely costly if the water is very high.
The accepted dewatering process within the region is to pump the water out through boreholes. However, this is not without its challenges. High water temperatures and high salinity result in excessive corrosion, whilst iron bacteria can grow on motors which prevent efficient motor cooling. The presence of gas is a constant threat in some areas as this causes gas lock on the impellers resulting in heavy vibrations, which places a great strain on the motor, loss of flow rate and motor failure.
This means that standard off-the-shelf products are not always suitable, and the incidence of failures is high. Typically, most bore pumps fail within 12 months, and sometimes only a few weeks. At its Hope Valley facility in Western Australia, KSB provides mine operators with its UPA multistage borehole pump (Fig. 2, above), customized to withstand site conditions. Although a more expensive product than its competitors, the UPA has been shown to deliver a significantly longer working life and reduced costs of ownership. KSB’s proprietary technology that inhibits the growth of iron bacteria makes the UPA a winner.
Trailer mounted units
In Africa the environment and minerals being mined require innovative approaches to dewatering. In the Katanga Province of the Democratic Republic of
Fig. 2: At its Hope Valley facility in Western Australia, KSB provides mine operators with its UPA multistage borehole pump.
Fig. 3: In Chile, being coupled to diesel engines allows continuous, autonomous operation for pumps in places without electricity for between 12 and 24 hours without refueling.
Congo, home to several open cut and underground copper mines rainy seasons wreak flooding havoc. Here, KSB is delivering several different pumping solutions involving both UPA Z borehole pumps and surface-mounted Omega pumps.
“To prevent mining operations from being shut down, a fast localized response is required,” says Rob Bond, area manager, Mining-Sub-Saharan Africa. “Our solution has been to supply Omega pumps mounted on rough terrain trailers (Fig.3). We supply a complete package made up of the pump, engine/motor, couplings, gearbox, hydraulic drives and auxiliary equipment including vacuum pump, control panels, monitors etc that delivers high head pumping.”
A similar solution is also provided for the open cast Moatize coal mine in Mozambique where the water levels must remain low for continuous production reliability. Whilst borehole pumps offer good reliability on a constant basis, when the rainy season starts, more resources are in demand KSB SA provides skid-mounted Omega units. To date, KSB SA has supplied 152 units, and all are working reliably.
Latin America
In Mexico’s Zacatecas silver mines underground water is a constant problem. According to Roberto Valenzuela,sales manager, Mining at KSB Mexico, the water contains solid particles so the high pressure encapsulated UPA borehole pumps should be wear-resistant for long term efficiency. Because the dewatering pumps work at a high speed, the impellers and the wear ring can suffer from premature wear.
Using Multitec horizontal multistage pumps with KSB’s C6 standard chrome coating, wear is greatly minimized. “We have had pumps running in this mine for over two years without the impellers being changed, “says Roberto Valenzuela. “It is a solution that no competitor offers, and adds value for the customer through reduced maintenance, spare parts and greater mining uptime.”
In Chile’s Atacama Desert copper and gold is mined at altitudes ranging between 2000 m and 4500 m. Remote sites, mine depths and the unavailability of electricity needed to drive high-capacity pumps complicate dewatering. High volumes of water contaminated by minerals can delay drilling and blasting and result in environmental pollution. KSB Chile has met these challenges by supplying encapsulated borehole pumps and cantilevered Etanorm pumps, driven by diesel motors.
“Our customers require high-pressure pumps in a modular configuration that can be moved with the expansion of the open pit,” comments Patricio Araya, Mining Head KSB Chile. “The solution is to use horizontally positioned borehole pumps with a special configuration for sand filters encased in a pressure shroud. This gives the customer flexibility and versatility because the equipment is compact, develops high pressures and is easy to move around the site.”
To accommodate increasing flows and discharge pressure pumps are configured in series and in parallel specifically for the client’s requirements. Being coupled to diesel engines allows continuous, autonomous operation in places without electricity for between 12 and 24 hours without refueling (Fig. 3, opposite left). Vertical Etanorm pumps and cantilever-type UPA pumps installed on a raft enabling them to handle the accumulation of water
inside the mine, eliminating factors such as negative suction head at high altitudes.
KSB equipment for mine drainage is supplied in standard versions, with variations for rafts or well pumps installed in pressure jackets. Having viable solutions for dewatering adds value to the customers operations and is also important because each year minerals are found at deeper levels.
Innovation in Indonesia
Indonesia is one of the world’s largest exporters of thermal coal, and also a major player in copper, gold, tin, bauxite, and nickel. Here KSB pumps are acknowledged for their outstanding capacity to perform in severe open pit mine sites. Its development of dewatering and dredge pump sets (DnD), as a solution for mining applications, especially for open-pit mine sites is one example of KSB’ commitment to continuous product improvement and development. To date, more than 260 DnD pumps with GWI LCC and LSA pumps have been installed in mines across Indonesia and South East Asia. In 2013, KSB Indonesia
launched a new model, the DnD Cruiser with enhancements requested by customers.
KSB builds the entire diesel driven pump unit on a barge, complete with fuel tank, vacuum pump, control panel etc., and ships them on trailers for easy commissioning at site. Because monsoon rains are seasonal dewatering is also a seasonal activity and this means pumps can stand idle for several months during the dry periods. Recognizing this situation, KSB has introduced a rental program, whereby the pumps are supplied fully-kitted out according to the customer’s requirements. By not having to purchase the pump sets, customers are relieved of the costs of ownership and know that when they require units they come ready for operation.
This article was prepared by GIW Industries, Inc., of Fort McMurray, AB, and contributed by KSB Pumps Inc. of Mississauga, ON. KSB Pumps
www.ksb.ca
GIW Industries
www.giwindustries.com
Fig.1: Figig.1: .11:
Rittal Systems has introduced the VX SE free-standing enclosure system. For applications where its AX compact enclosures are too small, and the TS 8 baying enclosures are too large — the VX SE is a midway alternative for applications where baying is not required. Additionally, the VX SE size range includes a 300 mm deep version that is suitable for applications where space is limited. With advantages such as high protection categories, a wide range of sizes from 300 mm depth to 1,800 mm width, different material options in carbon steel
and stainless steel, and simple and complete engineering, the company says, the VX SE is an ideal stand-alone solution to help panel builders, machine builders, systems integrators and end users increase their productivity. Additionally, to meet the exacting hygiene standards of the food and beverage industry, the VX SE high protection category of up to IP 66/NEMA 4X allows cleaning with high pressure water jets. Watch video at www.cpec.news/bpe.
Rittal Systems
www.rittal.ca
www.cpec.news/k15
Quick-test Hydrostatic
Test Kits from Ralston Instruments are said to be a huge improvement over large, cumbersome chart recorders. The sturdy, wireless temperature probe(s) let users record pipeline and ambient temperature digitally from up to 100 m away, replacing the need for unwieldy cables and dried out felt tip pens, the company says, and with ±0.1%FS accuracy, the kits are 10x more accurate than traditional chart recorders. The waterproof case includes all the test equipment and accessories required to set up and run tests according to Transport Canada, US DOT, API, ASME or international standards. The kits permit users to view pressure and temperature data in real time, download it via wireless or USB, and create customized, graphical reports of pressure and temperature readings and DUT data. Each kit includes one or two LC20-TA thermal probe gauges, a FieldLab digital pressure reference and data logger, and all chargers, manuals and accessories. Kits are suitable for wellhead pre-commissioning, pressure vessel re-qualification, and general testing of meter skids, valves, pipelines, boilers and other systems that require data collection. Watch thermal probe gauge video at www.cpec.news/fnl. Ralston Instruments www.ralstoninst.com/cpn-htk
The ROW (Remote Optical Watcher) from LDI and available through Scadalliance is a self-contained non-contact sensor for detecting oil spills in real time. Said to be highly accurate and easy to maintain, it continuously monitors for oil leaks and spills in the environment or on industrial sites over a vast area. This monitoring allows for early detection for immediate alerts and pollution prevention, the company says. With the sensor’s optical range up to 10 m, the sensor avoids biofouling and significantly limits the need for regular cleaning, it adds. The device is available in three models: ROW Aluminum, for common applications; ROW EXD, designed for hazardous areas, packaged in a 316 stainless steel explosion-proof enclosure and certified ATEX and IECEx Zone 1; ROW stainless steel: designed for corrosive environments, packaged in
a stainless steel housing. All models offer standard industrial outputs: Modbus, 4 to 20 mA, and relay contacts.
Scadalliance
www.scadalliance.com
www.cpec.news/uq0
MODULAR AND SCALABLE 3-PHASE UNINTERRUPTIBLE POWER SUPPLY HAS COMPACT FORM FACTOR
Schneider Electric has announced the launch of the Galaxy VL 200-500 kW (400V/480V) 3-phase uninterruptible power supply (UPS), the newest addition its Galaxy UPS series. The compact UPS offers up to 99 per cent efficiency in ECOnversion mode, the company says, for a full return on investment within two years (model dependent) for medium and large data centres and commercial and industrial facilities. The unit is said to be half the size of the industry average at 0.8 m2. Its modular and scalable architecture enables data centre professionals to scale power incrementally, from 200 kW to 500 kW with 50 kW power modules, providing flexibility to grow as their business demands. Power can be scaled instantly in 50 kW increments from 200 to 500 kW with no extra footprint, the company adds. Watch video at www.cpec.news/iwx.
Schneider Electric Canada www.se.com www.cpec.news/9yx
BATTERY-POWERED CELLULAR FLOWMETER FILLS REMOTE GAP
Endress+Hauser has developed the battery-powered Proline Promag W 800 electromagnetic flowmeter. The unit is suitable for applications such as fresh and process water that is often piped significant distances through remote areas where there is no possibility of providing flow measurement devices with energy or data transfer capability via power or land lines. The flowmeter is said to provide highly accurate measurement with maintenance-free operations and worldwide data transfer via cellular radio for up to 15 years. It also supports integrated cloud connectivity. The Promag mea-
surement technology is also said to afford consistent, seamless consumption measurements with a maximum measured error of ±0.5%, and reliable monitoring of important variables such as volume, totalizer, limits, etc. For the accounts receivable folks, it can provide exact cost allocation and billing data. Promag W 800 is available with various drinking water approv-
als such as KTW/W270, WRAS BS6920, ACS or NSF 61. Watch video demonstration at www.cpec.news/rsv.
Altivar Process is a Services Oriented Drive from Schneider Electric designed to reduce OPEX in Process & Utilities installations, including wastewater, thanks to embedded digital services, the company says. The Altivar Process ATV600 is a range of ready-to-order drives and custom engineered drives focused on fluids management processing and energy saving. The drive range comes with: Embedded Power measurement and Energy dashboard; Embedded process monitoring and control; Low Harmonics (THDi < 48% at 80% load or THDi < 5% with low harmonic offer); Stop and Go function to reduce energy consumption in standby mode; asset
The Sonic-Pro MS6 ultrasonic chemical feed flow meter from Blue-White is said to be an innovative addition to flow meter offerings in the water and wastewater treatment industries. The flow meter uses transit time ultrasonic tech-
nology to offer a broad flow range. It has measurable flow rates down to 10 milliliters per minute (0.15 gallons per hour) and up to 10,000 milliliters per minute (158.5 gallons per hour). The flow meter features include a 4 to 20 mA output, frequency output, and high and low flow set points that can be utilized for no flow alarms. In addition, the flow meter has numerous system warning functions such as, air bubble or empty pipe problems which are crucial to operations. The unit communicates problems with the SCADA control system. With PVDF and PEEK wetted components, NSF 61 approval, and the necessary features to accurately monitor chemical dosing, the flow meter is also said a good fit for drinking water applications.
Blue-White Industries
www.blue-white.com
monitoring and protection; drift monitoring; easy maintenance (Dynamic QR-Code); and integration with embedded Ethernet.
Watch water treatment plant application at www.cpec.news/qrw.
Schneider Electric Canada www.se.com/ca/en/ www.cpec.news/fg9
Pfannenberg has introduced a broad range of products for the demanding requirements of the water industry. Products include cooling systems that can withstand extreme conditions like corrosion due to Hydrogen Sulfide gas and signaling systems that notify employ-
ees of life-threatening situations like toxic gas leaks. The company’s thermal management solutions for enclosure electronics range from the energy efficient Original Filterfan to the PWS Air/Water Heat Exchangers that can remove a considerable amount of heat while isolating sensitive electronics from a corrosive atmosphere outside of the enclosure. A broad range of audible and visual signaling technologies provide an Indication of the status of a machine, process or test procedure, a Warning of a dangerous situation or required corrective action, and an Alarm to alert personnel of life threatening and emergency situations.
Pfannenberg
www.pfannenbergusa.com www.cpec.news/bqj
www.cpec.news/z79
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Level & pressure measurement in water supply and water treatment
Continued from page 6
protocols such as Modbus.
With Modbus, the instruments can be easily connected to existing data loggers. The cable versions are suitable for SDI-12 communication, often used for river and lake level telemetry-based measurements. Since the Modbus sensors are also available in the “encapsulated” version, they are suitable for Zone 1, while the data logger can remain in Zone 2 or even outside the Ex area. Thus, no further measures need to be taken to supply or connect the sensors.
Do I automatically have Ex protection with the Modbus version?
Compact VEGA sensors in Modbus version have options for encapsulation for use in Ex areas. In the Modbus version, encapsulation is possible for use in Zone 1. The sensors can be connected directly to an existing data logger without intrinsically safe outputs. So while the sensor is installed in Zone 1, the data logger remains in Zone 2 or outside the Ex area as required. This makes it easier for the user.
Are the sensors available with Profibus or Profinet? Profibus is not available for the new, compact sensors. If Profibus PA is required, standard sensors from VEGA can be used. Profibus PA can be con-
verted back to Profinet via a remote IO. Profinet is a network protocol that requires an Ethernet interface. VEGA two-wire sensors as well as controllers will implement PROFINET in the coming years.
Does the luminous display of the pressure sensors function without additional supply? Yes, it also lights up with 4 ... 20 mA sensors, without requiring any additional power supply.
4
Controllers
• Manual, automatic and actuated (pneumatic & electric) valves; relief, check, diaphragm, ball, solenoid, and shut-off. Also pressure regulators, metering pumps, basket strainers, sight glasses, and gauge guards.
Do the sensors with cable always need a controller?
No, for these sensors, either 4 ... 20 mA, Modbus or SDI 12 serves directly as cable output. The radar sensors work differently than ultrasonic transducers, which require a controller depending on the version. However, using a controller makes sense if, for example, an additional display is needed to provide more clarity on site. Pump control or flow measurement with totalization can also be realized with a controller. These functions, as well as a data logger, are integrated in the range of VEGAMET controllers.
What data can I record in the controller?
The digital controller for robust use in the field contains an additional data logger. An SD card that can store up to 100 million selectable measured values is included.
How do I set up the controller for flow measurement?
All controllers for installation in the field, in a control cabinet or in a control panel have built-in linearization curves for flow measurement, which can be easily activated via the setup assistant. This means that the linearization curves for different flumes are already there, and
only need to be selected and configured. A totalizer adds up the flow.
5Explosion protection
Which Ex areas can the radar sensors be used in?
In general, they can be used in Zone 0 or Zone 1. All sensors are also available in intrinsically safe versions. This means that they replace previous intrinsically safe sensors 1 to 1. With encapsulation, the cable versions can readily be used in Zone 1. Because these do not need an intrinsically safe supply, and operate without a barrier, using them is easier than ever.
6Flow
Can the sensors also be used in open flumes?
Yes, the integrated linearization curves make it possible. This applies to Venturi flumes as well as individual curves.
The linearization curves are stored directly in the sensor or in the controller and can be easily assigned to a flume with the help of the adjustment tools. This makes it possible to directly display the current flow rate. A totalizer integrated in the controller can also be activated to store the total flow volume.
7Radar or ultrasonics?
Are there any disadvantages to radar? No. The prices are the same, and radar performs better and in more applications. So it makes sense to make the switch to radar technology.
Will VEGA continue to make ultrasonic sensors?
VEGA will replace ultrasonic technology in the long term. However, it will be retained as long as there is customer demand. VEGA has had ultrasonics in its product range for over 40 years and is very familiar with the technology and its weaknesses. In the past, ultrasonics was the low-cost, non-contact measuring principle of choice. That has changed. Why it makes more and more sense to switch to radar.
Watch customer video at www.cpec.news/yux. This article is from a VEGA blog by Jurgen Skowaisa, Product Management Radar, Ultrasonic, at www.cpec.news/ven.
VEGA
Above: VEGA VEGAPULS radar sensors are approved as overfill protection according to WHG. Below: Using a controller makes sense if, for example, an additional display is needed to provide more clarity on site. See customer video at www.cpec.news/yux.
Boosting best practices in the water sector
Around the world the water and wastewater sectors are embracing new technologies to improve supplies, reduce energy use and increase the environmental sustainability of this vital but finite resource.
By Cameron Creech
In this article, I look at some of the projects that my company, HRS Heat Exchangers has been involved in overseas and asks what Canada’s water industry can learn from them.
ENERGY GENERATION
The potential of Water Resources Recovery Facilities to generate energy via anaerobic digestion (AD) is well understood, but in many cases, AD is used primarily for water treatment rather than energy generation. Utilizing the biogas produced for heat, power, or as renewable green gas will immediately bring both economic and environmental benefits.
HEAT RECAPTURE
Where thermal processing is used, heat recovery enables a resource that would otherwise go to waste to be used for purposes such as pre-heating items including process water, feedstock, digesters, or evaporators to improve energy efficiency.
Heat exchangers represent the best way of recapturing heat from thermal processes, having a much lower energy requirement than tanks with heating jackets (up to half of that of some tank systems). In fact, a well-designed heat exchanger system could recover — and reuse — 40 percent of the heat produced by a wastewater AD plant.
One range proving popular with wastewater AD operators is the HRS DTI Series of double tube heat exchangers (above). The inner tube is corrugated to ensure improved heat transfer performance and superior resistance against fouling, which also results in reduced maintenance periods. In addition, the tube in tube design permits the processing of fluids with particles without any tube blockage, making it particularly suited to wastewater, sewage, and AD plants.
IMPROVING THE VALUE OF SLUDGE AND DIGESTATE
A typical 5 million BTU wastewater AD plant can produce around 44,000 tons of liquid digestate each year, which creates significant economic and logistical challenges in terms of management, storage, and transportation.
Generally, concentrated digestate and sludge is easier to manage. Using surplus or recovered heat to separate water from digestate by concentration can reduce the overall quantity of digestate by as much as 80%, greatly lowering the associated storage and transport costs. A well-designed system, such as HRS’ Digestate Concentration System (DCS), will include measures to retain the valuable nutrients in the digestate, while the evaporated water can be condensed and returned to the front end of the AD process, reducing the amount of energy and water used by the plant. After concentration, the treated digestate dry solid content can be as high as 20% (often a four-fold improvement), making it much easier, and cheaper, to transport and handle.
Pasteurizing digestate and sludge to remove
potential pathogens is a tried and tested technique around the world, allowing these valuable biofertilizers to be utilized on a wide range of soils and farming systems. One of the most energy-, and therefore cost-efficient methods to pasteurize digestate is the HRS Digestate Pasteurization System (DPS), which is based on heat exchangers rather than tanks with heating jackets. Using heat exchangers means that effective digestate pasteurization is possible using surplus heat while allowing additional thermal regeneration levels of up to 60%. This saved heat can then be used for other processes, such as evaporation of the digestate to remove water.
EFFICIENT EVAPORATION
Evaporation and cooling processes are commonplace in water and wastewater treatment, but evaporation can result in a high degree of material fouling on the inside of the equipment. HRS Unicus Series scraped-surface heat exchangers are designed to maintain thermal efficiency and remove fouling as it occurs.
Low temperature evaporation can be a very energy efficient method of water removal. Where process temperatures are 185 to 194°F, low temperature evaporation combines the use of a vacuum to reduce the boiling point of the liquid to be removed, together with traditional high temperature evaporators, based on heat exchanger technology. Where the temperature of the effluent or digestate falls below the necessary temperature, it can often be increased via heat exchangers, utilizing surplus heat from heaters and combined heat and power (CHP) engines.
Combining systems into a multiple-effect evaporator allows larger quantities of water to be removed for the same initial heat input.
RESOURCE RECOVERY
One common use of evaporation is in material recovery and waste valorization – the process of recovering value from waste materials. Solid-liquid mixtures are complex, and it is important that the first stage of resource recovery accurately evaluates the nature of the waste stream/s involved.
The evaporation and cooling steps which are often involved in resource recovery result in a high degree of material fouling on the inside of the equipment, so scraped-surface heat exchangers
are used to maintain thermal efficiency and remove fouling as it occurs. Coupled with HRS R Series coolers and custom-designed crystallization tanks, the result is an efficient process which can work continuously without requiring scheduled downtime.
Two evaporators are used to concentrate and remove pure water from the solution, which can be used elsewhere. The coolers and crystallizers produce solid crystals, and the remaining solution returns to the evaporation process. The system can be configured as a true Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) system, so no liquid waste remains after the process. This means that as recovering valuable minerals and salts, waste management costs are also reduced.
This article is from a white paper by Cameron Creech, General Manager of HRS Heat Exchangers. The UK-based company was recently acquired by Exchanger Industries Ltd. of Calgary (see page 9). HRS Heat Exchangers www.hrs-heatexchangers.com
Popular with wastewater AD operators is the DTI Series of double tube heat exchangers.
Dear valued readers, Rob here all vaxxed up and ready to roll. If the statistics are correct, so are you. Here at Canadian Process Equipment & Control News we’re anxious to resume our Process & Automation Shows across Canada. There are still some hurdles to clear but I think we’re on the right track now. We will let you know our schedule as soon as we can so you can plan to join us when we’re in your area.
Speaking of hurdles, how about the Canadian Olympic effort. I’m not a big fan of the Olympics but a huge fan of the athletes. The pure joy the athletes exhibit after performing reminds us of why sports are an important distraction from life, especially over the last two years. In football we used to lament that we practice 80%
of the time and play 20% of the time. In most Olympic sports they practice 99% of the time for 1% actual competition. So, to see an athlete achieve their personal best at the most crucial time is awesome.
Readers, we need you to sign-up once a year to receive our publication and our E newsletter, otherwise the big bad circulation auditors make us remove your name from our list. When you get the renewal email or a call from us, please say “yes” to continue.
Next up will be out October issue with a focus on Fluid Handling and Mike’s Supplement on Sensor Technology. It closes September 10 and mails a month later.
Stay safe, stay healthy, and (re)sign up today at www.cpecn.com/subscribe. Cheers, Rob Sommerville
ETHERNET REMOTE I/O MODULES SUPPORT A MIX OF SIGNAL TYPES ON A SINGLE IP ADDRESS
Acromag’s new BusWorks NT series remote I/O modules provide an Ethernet interface for analog, discrete and temperature signals. NTE Ethernet I/O models have dual RJ45 ports and a web server with Modbus TCP/ IP communication to monitor or control the internal I/O channels. An integrated DIN rail bus allows connection of up to three NTX expansion I/O modules. Each I/O module adds up to 16 input or output signals allowing a mix of
HAZARDOUS LOCATION CLASS I VIBRATING RODS OFFER SIMPLE OPERATION
voltage, current, temperature, TTL, and relay control signals networked on one IP address. The space-saving design requires 25 mm of DIN rail per module, the company says. Hazardous location approvals, high noise immunity, and -40 to 70°C operation make this I/O suitable for use in harsh environments. Watch video demonstration at www.cpec. news/j16.
Acromag
www.acromag.com
www.cpec.news/pn9
METERS MONITOR INDOOR AIR QUALITY PARAMETERS
BinMaster has introduced a variety of vibrating rods with Class I approvals. The units are said to be simple to set up, resist buildup, and require minimal maintenance. Housings are available in plastic, aluminum, and cast or electropolished stainless steel. The devices feature IP67/IP67 protection ratings, operate at temperatures up to 250°C, and are available as extended units. The model VR-90 features a round, stainless steel rod that resists buildup. It is used for point level indication in granular and coarse-grained bulk solids in bins, tanks, silos, and hoppers. The VF-95 is for universal use in powders and fine-grained bulk solids. The rugged stainless steel fork resists bending, buildup, and requires no maintenance. Both the VR-90 and VF-95 are suitable for use in hazardous areas. Watch video demonstration at www.cpec.news/rkt.
BinMaster
www.binmaster.com www.cpec.news/5zn
DIVISION 2 SEVERE DUTY MOTORS BRIDGE INDUSTRIAL PERFORMANCE GAP
TSI IAQ-Calc meters from Chevrier Instruments are devices for investigating and monitoring indoor air quality (IAQ). The model 7515 is said to be a cost-effective meter for CO2 measurements, while the 7525 and 7545 models simultaneously measure and data log multiple parameters. Model 7525 measures CO2, temperature, humidity, and calculates dew point, wet bulb temperature, and percentage outside air. Model 7545 adds detection of carbon monoxide (CO). Features and benefits on all models include low-drift NDIR CO2 sensor for stable, accurate readings; sampling function records multiple point measurements; and an ergonomic, overmolded case design. The models 7525 and 7545 provide temperature and relative humidity measurements to help determine thermal comfort; calculates percentage outside air from either CO2 or temperature; directly calculates dew point and wet bulb temperatures; electrochemical sensor measures CO (model 7545); and displays up to three parameters. Data can be reviewed on-screen, or downloaded, while a statistics function displays average, maximum and minimum values, and the number of recorded samples. Chevrier Instruments
http://chevrierinstruments.com
www.cpec.news/lwz
The Baldor-Reliance Severe Duty XT motor is said to be a true severe duty motor that bridges the gap between the ABB’s Baldor-Reliance General Purpose and XEX premium severe duty motor lines. The motors are easy to install and maintain, the company says, and offer a wide range of standard features that cost extra on most other motors. Heavy-duty cast-iron frame construction is available in 1 to 300 hp NEMA 143T frame up to 449T frame sizes. The units feature an enhanced ingress protection and corrosion-resistant two-part epoxy paint, colour lead cables for easy identification and installation, and diagonally split oversized rotatable conduit box for ease of connection, the company adds. Division 2 markings Class I, Group A, B, C, D are also available. Watch video introduction at www.cpec.news/52x.
Vaxxed up & ready to roll.
NSF 372-CERTIFIED VALVE PLUG DESIGNED FOR SUBMERSIBLE PUMP WATER WELL APPLICATIONS
Flomatic has announced the DrainBack Plug, Model 48, for submersible pump water well installations. The reusable Model 48 is designed to drain the riser pipe, and it is activated when a weight is dropped into the well drop pipe. The plunger is stroked by the
weight and opens the valve, which returns to its closed position when the drop weight is removed. The Model 48 is NSF 372 certified, and it is designed in all stainless steel construction with Buna-N resilient seating. The plug is said to be easily replaced in the field, that helps eliminate water splashing at the surface, and prevents potential cross-contamination of the water well. The spring-loaded valve threads into a 1 in. pipe tee. By utilizing the valve, the pulling of pipe and pump becomes much easier and safer, reducing the pulling weight between 20 to 50 percent, the company says.
Flomatic
www.flomatic.com
BEARINGS REDUCE WEAR IN HEAVY-DUTY APPLICATIONS SUCH AS MINING
www.cpec.news/izg
PRESSURE SWITCHES FOR EXPLOSIVE ENVIRONMENTS
Sigma-Netics has introduced the 703-U and 703-UJ series of UL-rated, explosion-proof pressure switches. The components are suitable for gaseous or liquid fluid systems in hazardous applications, including offshore exploration, petrochemical processing and oil and gas pipelines. Both series have a corrosion-resistant stainless steel construction and UL ratings for hazardous locations, including Class 1: Division 1, Groups A, B, C, D, as well as Class 2: Groups E, F, G. Units are also said to feature high overpressure capabilities, a NEMA Type 7 explosion-proof rating and rugged piston design, enabling these switches to withstand high pressure spikes, shock and vibration. The 703-U Series features factory-set fixed pressure, while the 703-UJ features field-adjustable pressure. Designed for easy field adjustment, the 703-UJ also incorporates a tamper-resistant locking mechanism to maintain set point integrity. Watch video at www.cpec.news/uv1.
Sigma-Netics
www.sigmanetics.com
www.cpec.news/566
igus has introduced a new bearing with an improved iglide material, TX2, which offers self-lubricating and maintenance-free properties for heavy duty applications. The material increases wear-resistance by a factor of 3.5 in load ranges with more than 100 MPa surface pressure, the company says. The material is suitable for components in machines that serve mining, construction and agriculture, which can require more than 50 L of lubricant annually. Another material combination for wound bushings complements the range of injection-moulded bearings in the heavy-duty range. The filament interwoven design enables a maximum permissible compressive strength of 400 MPa. The material is available in 20 to 80 mm diameters. Watch video introduction at www.cpec.news/bbh. igus
www.igus.com
www.cpec.news/4jn
SPECTROMETER PERFORMS SIMULTANEOUS MEASUREMENTS
By performing multiple measurements simultaneously, the SphereSpectro 150H spectroradiometer from Gigahertz-Optik is said to shorten measurement times and delivers high-precision, absolute measurement results. The meter measures the spectral absorption coefficient (µa) and the spectral, effective scattering coefficients (µs — also called reduced scattering coefficient) of diffuse and clear samples, regardless of whether they are solid or liquid. Gigahertz-Optik
www.gigahertz-optik.com
www.cpec.news/ueu
VIBRATORY BELT CONVEYORS FOR BULK PROCESSING
The SharpEye 40/40 series from Spectrex is based on proven technologies, including IR3 and UV/IR. The series features QuadSense technology, said to provide the fastest response to fire, longest distance detection or revolutionary UV/IR technology, coupled with high sensitivity and superior immunity to false alarms, functioning in harsh conditions with unparalleled reliability and durability. With an improved design, the detectors are said to be easy to install and maintain and come with universal wiring options and multiple output options. The series detects hydrocarbon-based fuel and gas fires at up to 90 m. Watch video at www.cpec.news/1y9. Spectrex
www.spectrex.net www.cpec.news/af7
Vibratory belt conveyors from Best Process Solutions are said to be durable bulk processing conveyance systems for moving products. The conveyors are highly customizable depending on the user’s needs. Available in various lengths, the units can be tandem mounted in series for longer lengths as needed. Design features include safety side panels/guards; two counter-rotating motors (230/460 volt, 3 phase, 60 cycle); UL controls available; can have up to four vibratory tables; and tubular trough construction. Specialized conveyors are available for application in concrete molds with continuous fill line. The conveyor vibrates to minimize air bubbles while continuing to move.
Dual Output Isolated Signal Conditioner or Loop Extender
Best Process Solutions www.bpsvibes.com www.cpec.news/8aj
The ITC-XXX-XX-DC is a signal isolator with dual outputs providing high isolation from Input to Output1, to Output2, and to Power in a small easy to install package. It’s universal DIN rail mount makes it possible to install right next to the instrument that is to be isolated. The many different input and output configurations allow it to be used in a great variety of applications ranging from PLC front end conditioning to adding an extra loop with lots of drive to an existing, almost fully loaded loop.
RECOVERY ASH ANALYZER DETERMINES FOULING AND CORROSION RISKS REMOTELY ONLINE
The Recovery Ash Analyzer from Valmet now offers an online solution for measuring ash composition at the electrostatic precipitator (ESP) and additionally calculates the critical ash melting temperatures to determine fouling and corrosion risks online. The ash analyzer measures the complete chemical balance, carbonate (CO3), sulfate (SO4), chloride (Cl), potassium (K) and sodium (Na) concentrations. The Valmet Ash Balance Advisor software provides an online view of ash balance and boiler operation parameters using the ash
melting temperatures T0, T15 and T70 to give an operational target for ash treatment volume. The advisor also provides calculations to balance costs between fresh chemical make-up, electricity generation and boiler cleanability. The result is said to be an enhanced removal of chloride and potassium from the recovery loop and with a reduction of ash dumped, the maximum retention of expensive sodium. Watch video at www.cpec.news/8iq.
Valmet
www.valmet.com
FLEXIBLE SCREW CONVEYORS AVOIDS DUMPING FROM SAFETY CAGES
www.cpec.news/gc7
Flexicon Corporation has introduced BEV-CON model conveyors that include a 25 ft (7.5 m) long beveled-edge spiral driven by a motor positioned beyond the discharge point, precluding material contact with bearings or seals. The conveyors are able to convert the manual dumping of a powdered mixes from an elevated safety cage in beverage applications, to dumping of the mix at floor level into mobile flexible screw conveyors. The conveyor’s charging adapter consists of a trough at the outlet of a pyramidal hopper that exposes the intake end of the spiral to the powdered mix. A pneumatically actuated vibrator fitted to the hopper wall promotes the flow of powder into the trough as the rotating spiral moves it at a 45° incline through the enclosed tube, discharging it into the screener. A 12 ft (3.6 m) high caster-mounted frame with support boom enables operators to roll the unit into position with the conveyor discharge directly above the screener, and thereafter to a cleaning area. Watch technology demonstration at www.cpec.news/dy5. Flexicon Corporation www.flexicon.com www.cpec.news/li3
SHELL, TUBE HEAT EXCHANGER DESIGN
New software from AHED for the design of shell and tube heat exchangers has been further enhanced after its first update introduced a new Tube Assistant feature, said to make more information instantly accessible to users during the design process. Updated versions of AHED (Advanced Heat Exchanger Design) software now feature a ‘magic wand’ symbol in the geometry section of the program. Clicking on this opens the new Tube Assistant feature, which contains details of different tube dimensions, including those commonly used for heat exchangers, as well as standard ISO, ANSI, and millimetre metric tube types. Watch video demonstration at www.cpec.news/55e.
AHED
www.hrs-ahed.com www.cpec.news/34f
Fisher Vee-Ball Rotary Control Valves from Emerson are now available with Cavitrol Hex Anti-Cavitation Trim to reduce or eliminate
vibration caused by cavitation. The Cavitrol Hex trim option provides improved performance in severe service applications while maintaining valve efficiency, the company
CORROSIVE APPLICATION DRUM FILTER/SEPARATOR
With the CORES vacuum drum filter, Andritz says it has developed an innovative, long-life solution, and very reliable filter design that offers maximum corrosion resistance. The drum filters are suitable for highly corrosive applications such as producing titanium dioxide (TiO2) in sulfuric acid (H2SO4) processes or in processes where slurries with a high content of hydrochloric acid (HCl) are used. The vacuum drum filter has a patented sandwich design provides a permanently chemically resistant surface and can be implemented with different materials to ensure resistance to chemicals. Depending on the size required, the structure itself is made of steel or completely of GRP (glass fibre reinforced plastic). Watch video demonstration at www.cpec.news/8dc. Andritz www.andritz.com www.cpec.news/cnc
says, resulting in increased safety. There are three primary negative side effects of uncontrolled cavitation in control valves: excessive vibration, equipment damage and deterioration of flow control. Cavitrol Hex trim is available on Fisher V150, V200 and V300 rotary control valve models. It can be retrofitted into previously installed Vee-Ball valves after minimal modifications to the valve body, the company adds. The trim option is available on Vee-Ball valves in sizes NPS 4 through 12. Watch anti-cavitation demonstration video at www.cpec.news/ef8.
Emerson Automation Canada
www.cpec.news/lqu
www.emerson.com
12-CHANNEL TEMPERATURE/ PROCESS MONITOR
The Minco CT224 system available from Mod-Tronic consists of a 12-channel temperature monitor and MincoSoft CT224 software. The 12-channel scanning capability, standard RS485/RS232 interface and Windows-compatible software utility for system configuration and data logging provide overtemperature and undertemperature protection and critical feedback to safeguard expensive machinery. The system is UL and cUL recognized and permits users to mix and match sensor input types for freedom to adapt to pre-installed bearing and apparatus sensors. The ability to monitor 12 inputs allows users to monitor stator sensors from two motors, while five outputs, relays or logic offers either internal relay trips or flexibility of external control. In addition to motors, applications include generators, turbines, compressors and pumps.
Mod-Tronic Instruments
www.mod-tronic.com www.cpec.news/q6s
Cameron Instruments has announced mobile gas measuring and gas warning devices from the Sewerin EX-TEC PM 5xx series. Units can be used to locate leaks in freely accessible gas pipes, assess the risk of explosion and determine whether toxic gases are within the occupational exposure limits (OEL). The series is a CSA approved explosion proof device with IP65 rating and a 2.5 in. display. The devices are equipped with audible and visual pre-alarms and main alarms when gas concentrations are dangerous. Users can access all the device functions via the 4-key control panel. The gas measuring and gas warning device can detect up to five different gases when fitted with all options including for warning — CH4, CO2, CO, H2S and O2. Cameron Instruments
Verigo is wireless Bluetooth monitoring series of thermo-sensitive products from JRI. The monitoring products make it easy to increase the visibility of the supply chain and improve safety of temperature sensitive products, the company says, and eliminate the need to employ a data logger, as well as avoid opening and damaging containers to retrieve data. Data access is via a smartphone/tablet. The system will transmit alerts by e-mail/SMS text message and can send reports in PDF/CSV format directly from a smartphone. Data can be viewed and shared from anywhere with a secure Cloud integration that updates data automatically. The simple web temperature monitoring platform allows to view any pods and audit every interaction, the company adds, such as location, user identity and condition.
JRI
www.jri-corp.com
www.cpec.news/k28
Vastex Industrial has introduced a D-100 model infrared conveyor oven for laboratory testing and low volume production applications. At 46 in. long x 24 in. wide x 24 in. high, the unit can be placed on tabletops or wheeled utility carts with tops as small as 24 in. square. Offered in 120 or 240 Vac models, the oven is equipped with a 16 in. square 1625 W infrared heater that achieves temperatures to 400°C Heater shields are said to maximize edge-to-edge temperature uniformity, while variable controls for both heat intensity and conveyor speed allow fine-tuning of the heating process. The heating chamber has a fixed infeed width of 19.5 in. and an infeed height that can be raised and lowered from 2 to 7 in. Larger conveyor/tunnel models are available with belt widths to 54 in., chamber lengths to 162 in. and infrared heaters to 68.4 kW.
Designed for demanding hazardous industrial environments, the rugged S88 Specific Ion Sensors (pIONs) and the intelligent X80 Universal Transmitter Analyzer from Electro-Chemical Devices (ECD) are available as ATEX and IECEx or FM approved to provide safe, precise measurement of water-based chemicals for effective process use and then effluent treatment prior to re-use or discharge to meet water quality standards and regulations. The sensors can monitor and detect ammonia, ammonium, bromide, cadmium, calcium, chloride, copper, cyanide, fluoride, potassium, sodium and sulfide. In addition to pIONs, the sensor series also can be configured to measure pH, ORP, dissolved oxygen, conductivity or resistivity. Watch sensor calibration video at www.cpec.news/g37. ECD Company
https://ecdi.com/Canada/ www.cpec.news/zja
Canadian Process Contro l Association
“excellent use of my time and my company’s time”
Plant Manager, REFINERY
SEE YOU IN 2021!
We’re bringing world class experts to your neighbourhood for one day only at our Process & Automation Shows
• Face to face access to national and local experts in their field
• Try out products right at the show
• Save time and visit as many companies as you like in one day
• Compare technologies and pricing from leading companies
“Solved a problem we’ve had for years... now I don’t have to worry about it anymore”
