Universal signal conditioners

COMPLETELY flexible signal conditioners are now available from Bürkert Fluid Control Systems.

The loop powered eLINE LPI signal conditioner works with most standard signal types, in one unit without jumpers (milliamps, millivolts, voltage, thermocouple, RTD, resistance and potential).

The LPI is PC programmed with the facility to enter tables for special RTD or thermocouple sensors, and input/output characterisation by table.

Storage space within the compact 13.1mm wide unit is available for recording calibration, configuration, location and tag number records.

Full Windows functionality for storing information and configuration files makes the LPI straightforward and simple to use, with a USB cable accessory and software (eLINE UCI) suitable for configuration of unlimited units. The LPI is designed for 35mm DIN rail mount.

A second lower cost unit, eLINE API, is auxiliary powered and delivers on more common milliamp or voltage inputs, for a standard 4 20mA output.

For more information contact:

Bürkert Australia

P – 1300 888 868

W – www.burkert.com.au.

Air nozzle

EXAIR’s new 1¼” Super Air Nozzle is said to deliver 9.4lb (4,252g) of strong blowing force when mounted 12” (305mm) away from the target.

The force is said to be more than 12 times that of ordinary air nozzles, making it ideal for blowing heavy materials or for applications where the air nozzle can’t be mounted close to the surface to be blown off, dried or cooled.

The compressed air is ejected through a series of holes located in recessed grooves on the nozzle surface. The aerodynamic design of the 1¼” Super Air Nozzle directs the air to a single point of convergence, delivering a concentrated stream of high velocity airflow with hard- hitting force.

For more information contact:

Compressed Air Australia

P – 1300 787 688

W – http://caa.exair.com.

Pendant stations

THE New Elfin hand-held medium-to-heavy-duty pendant stations from Treotham Automation are designed to meet stringent ergonomic and safety requirements.

This type of machine controller is said to be ideal for use in numeric control automation systems and applications which use industrial robots, including in industries such as mining, manufacturing, packaging, assembly plants, materials handling both in indoor and outdoor environments.

The size of the upper part of the station makes it possible to create various operator configurations, while the lower part, used to grip the unit, can be equipped with a membrane button panel and the sides can also be fitted with anti-panic buttons.

The characteristic shape of the button board is designed to protect operators (also when the key selector is inserted) from mechanical collision or electric shock. The 3-position enabling pendant stations can be used in basically any machine and hazardous danger zone that utilises industrial automatic systems.

Used in conjunction with a start control, which only when activated and maintained in the active position, it allows operation of the machine.

The engagement button can be used for tuning, training, changing the working process, searching for faults, cleaning and maintaining the machine, and in all cases where it is necessary to move or remove safety guards or disconnected traditional safety devices.

For more information contact:

Treotham Automation

P – 02 9907 1778

W – www.treotham.com.au.

Face visor

SPERIAN has released the new Forestry Visor. Made from the high quality mesh, the visor is said to offer the perfect level of protection from large flying particles, while allowing for good air circulation and comfort.

The visor can be fitted onto most hard hats to be used in conjunction with earmuffs using Howard Leight hard hat adaptors and the Howard Leight range of earmuffs.

Featuring a wide sun brim for added protection from sun and glare, the Forestry visor utilises a ratchet arm system which allows for the visor to be lifted up or down, eliminating the need to remove the hard hat when not using the visor.

For more information contact:

Sperian Protection

P – 1300 139 166

W – www.sperianprotection.com.au.

Industrial footwear

OLIVER Footwear has added the Style 62250 Tactical Boot to its AT (All Terrain) range.

The Tactical Boot is designed for emergency services, security personnel and similar front line tasks where there is no requirement for a steel safety toecap but a specific need for a boot which is stylish, practical, yet comfortable and where there is likely to be long hours on the job.

The boot features a combination of a traditional lace-up design for superior fitting and a side zipper for ready access.

It also features a black water resistant full grain leather boot in a lace -up mid cut style with the quick-release curved side zipper feature.

In addition, the boot features the heavy duty AT’s dual density rubber and polyurethane soling combination which is resistant to most acids and chemicals.

The rubber outsole is heat resistant to 300°C. The boot also has an anti-static sole and incorporates the Nanolite Comfort Cushion PU/Poron combination impact absorption feature to ensure comfort while reducing leg and lower back fatigue.

For more information contact:

Oliver Footwear

P – 03 53 200 200

W – www.oliver.com.au.

New kit drives time savings

GLOBAL power and automation technology group ABB, has announced the Australian launch of its new drive configuration tool DriveConfig kit.

The kit is a PC configuration tool for ABB component drives ACS55, offering fast and safe configuration of unpowered drives.

According to the company, the kit enables parameter setting and software updating without the need for a power connection. The kit features on-line drive control and monitoring of up to four signals simultaneously.

It can also be used in an offline mode, which enables parameter setting at the office even before going to the actual site. The parameter browser enables viewing, editing and saving of parameters. The parameter comparison feature makes it possible to compare parameter values between the drive and the file.

Additional features include:

· Unpowered drive configuration

· Viewing and setting parameters in offline mode

· Editing, saving and downloading parameters

· Comparing parameters

· Graphical and numerical signal monitoring

· Drive control (start, stop and reference)

When used with the ACS55 drive, the kit brings additional value to processes by saving time and ensuring safety.

DriveConfig kit includes: Hardware and cables, PC software, User’s manual in English (hardcopy and PDF), Battery charger and Serial port (RFDT-01) / USB adapter (RFDT-02).

For more information contact:

ABB Australia

Rajesh Maker Market Development Manager – Machinery Drives

P – 03 8544 0285

E – rajesh.maker@au.abb.com

Multi detector for confined spaces

BW Technologies by Honeywell has announced the arrival of the GasAlertMax XT multi-detector for H2S, CO, O2 and combustible gases.

Simplify remote sampling in confined spaces with the multi-detector’s non-intrusive integrated sampling pump and SmartSample diaphragm pump technology.

According to the company, with true one-button technology and flexible user options, the detector provides ease of use and simple compliance to industry standards.

BW Technologies Australia 1300 729 450.

Legless stacker

Powerlift Nissan has now added to the Powerlifter pedestrian stacker range with the all new CHD —Series, heavy duty legless stacker.

The new compact Powerlifter CHD-Series is said to be suitable for a wide variety of temperature extremes from the tropics to low temperature cool rooms.

The stacker comes in 1300kg, 1500kg & 2000kg lift capacities with lift heights from 2.5 to 6m.

Featuring Power Steering, VTC (Variable Total Control) hydraulics and a Tilting Mast which enables infinitely variable control of lift, tilt and reach, the stacker’s “Brilliant by Design” chassis is said to incorporate the latest “Laser Lock” technology. Cut from Australian made steel by computer controlled precision lasers, the interlock design concept gives superior chassis strength.

The CHD-Series is said to be safe and easy to handle, with all function controls integrated into either the dash mounted joysticks or the new style DURA control handle.

Mounted on a short tiller arm directly over the transmission, the operator is positioned as close as possible to all the controls.

Power steering allows accurate and precise control of the truck with minimum effort. Deadman braking and a Belly Button safety reversing switch are all incorporated into the control handle for maximum safety.

The CHD-Series is also said to be very quiet and powerful with a drive train via the latest ZF transmission, combined with the new SepEx motor and SepEx control system providing smooth acceleration and energy saving dynamic braking.

Travel speeds are said to be virtually constant, even driving up or down an incline regardless of the load.

The 24V system is powered by a 290AH or 511AH Traction Battery. The ignition system features key locking and both the Electronics and Hydraulics on the CHD-Series are overload protected.

Powerlift Nissan 1300 550 607, www.powerlift.com.au

Zero backlash couplings

WHEN fitting stepper motors, servomotors, gearboxes and encoders to machines, care must be taken to ensure all devices are co-axial (no angular or parallel misalignment). Failure to do so will place excessive loads on bearings and will reduce the life of the components.

Bervina has introduced new flexible couplings with some angular and parallel compliance which have been designed improve the life of bearings while maintaining constant velocity and low backlash.

Constructed from a one piece aluminium, steel or stainless steel section, the couplings contain no wearing parts, eleminating the need for lubrication.

The couplings are manufactured by cutting several helical slots into a solid cylindrical section. Because they are machined from a single section, they are constant velocity couplings and do not cause backlash in position control systems.

Two types are available. The 6 beam couplings consist of 2 sets of 3 helical slots providing good parallel offset. The 3 beam couplings consist of one set of 3 helical slots and are shorter so they can be installed in confined spaces. Both clamp fixing and set screw fixing versions are available, the clamp version having greater gripping torque.

For more information contact:

Automated Motion Systems

P – 08 9309 1896

E – sales@automotsys.com.au

Air quality analysis

GLOBAL compressed air and gas system manufacturer CompAir has introduced a new service for Australian business and industry which can, according to the company, provide cost savings on compressed air by up to 30 per cent.

The Airnergy Analysis has been designed to be a totally integrated and comprehensive demand side audit of a business’ compressed air usage with a full measurement of energy use, actual airflow rates and pressures.

The unique Airnergy Analysis includes the development of a leak management plan, advice on leak correction, maintenance upgrades and provision of a detailed system report.

From the Analysis data an expert University body compiles an independent report and provides recommendations. The typical payback period from implementing the report recommendations can be as short as one to two years.

CompAir’s Managing Director Gary Woodhead said a major benefit for industry was the reduction in overcapitalisation of equipment as a result of upgrading or expansion, based on the intelligence provided by the Airnergy Analysis.

Woodhead said a number of leading businesses had already undertaken Airnergy Analysis, including Blue Circle Cement, One Steel, ACI Glass, Loy Yang Power, Cockburn Cement and the Murray Goulburn Co-op.

“As a result of our audit, Australia’s biggest milk processor, the Murray Goulburn Co-operative, installed the revolutionary Quantima system at its Leongatha plant in Victoria and in just five months reduced energy and maintenance costs by $147,000 and cut carbon emissions by 1900 tonnes. These savings are expected to double in a full year.”

Murray Goulburn is Australia’s biggest exporter of processed food and is committed to environmental sustainability, and according to Woodhead, the Airnergy Analysis and the Quantima system have helped the company measurably reduce its carbon footprint.

“The company was able to replace four existing compressors with just one 300 kW Quantima unit, leaving two units for standby air,” he added.

Woodhead said the Quantima System, supported by CompAir’s Airnergy Analysis, would be promoted to industry through an Australasian road show commencing in November. He said major industry compressed air users could ill-afford to miss the presentations.

“With Australia’s carbon emissions trading scheme commencing in 2010, every tonne of carbon saved will be money in the bank. So as well as the energy and maintenance savings, industry will earn carbon credits and importantly, compress its carbon footprint. “

Compair’s Airnergy Analysis and features of the Quantima System will be outlined at a range of free breakfasts:

Sydney – 20 November, 2008

Brisbane – 18 February, 2009

Adelaide – 18 March, 2009

Perth – 6 May, 2009

Auckland – 20 May, 2009

To register to attend visit the website www.quantimarevolution.com.au

Quick disconnect adapters

SAID to be ideal for test environments that require rapid connecting and disconnecting, the QD-SMA connector from Pasternack Enterprises’ has been designed to push on and lock in place by sliding the shroud up over the connector.

To enhance the VSWR measurement, simply make an additional ½ turn of the QD-SMA shroud to lower VSWR performance.

The QD-SMA is quickly disconnected by sliding the shroud back down and puling back on the connector.

For more information contact:

Rojone

P – 02 9829 1555

E – sales@rojone.com.au

Confined space/fall arrest safety systems

SPERIAN Protection has available the Miller DuraHoist confined space and fall arrest systems. A recent addition to the range includes a range of extensions to the existing mast system.

Four new lower mast extensions offer additional height options and flexibility, allowing users to accommodate a variety of different overhead clearance applications and uses.

Another component recently added is the DH-AP12, a specific bolt on base for the fall arrest posts. This new base is said to provide added safety and will increase the strength for all models.

Two new flush floor mount plate sleeves are now also available to complement the range and come in either stainless steel or zinc-plated steel.

These new additions sit alongside other products that were launched earlier in the year; the Four Piece DuraHoist System, a modular design for confined space allowing the use of components in various configurations and applications, the DuraHoist One Piece Adjustable Mast designed for use where multiple offset masts are required, the DuraHoist Three Piece Portable Base which features adjustable aluminium screws and a built-in level indicator for easy set-up on un-even surfaces, and the Miller DuraHoist Portable Fall Arrest Anchor Post designed for use on top of transformers or other types of vertical platforms.

Sperian Protection 1300 139 166, www.millerfallprotection.com.au.

Dust control modules for storage drawers

THE newly released series of BAC dust control modules are said to represent the latest BAC innovation.

Highly sensitive parts may be stored in BAC drawers, which are supplied with a protective acrylic shield for protection from contaminating agents such as dust and pests.

Drawers are sized 900mm wide and 600mm deep and can be subdivided according to need with BAC partitioning materials.

A range of drawer heights allows these drawer modules to be further customised. Large parts are stored on adjustable shelves, also protected by transparent panels from contamination.

The stackable feature of the modules allows for the creation of large-scale warehousing for industries such as spare parts supplies.

All modules are supplied with central locking systems as standard, with the further option of single drawer locks.

BAC Systems 02 9832 2777, www.bacsystems.com.au.

Compact injection moulding machine

KRAUSS Maffei of Germany has launched a new AX series of fully electric injection moulding machines from 50t to 350t clamp.

The machines are said to feature 75% greater energy efficiency and a 25% smaller footprint compared to a modern hydraulic machine.

The AX features a centrally-lubricated, low-maintenance, five point toggle for the clamp and a moving platen on precision roller bearing guides with friction up to 80% lower than a sliding support design.

The high precision platen guides are said guarantee a high degree of platen parallelism, thereby extending the mould service life.

The water-cooled converters are regenerative-capable, harvesting braking energy and controlling the servomotors with high efficiency.

The machine can be supplied as a complete production cell, with an integrated Krauss Maffei linear robot and safety housing.

HBM Plastics Technologies 02 8814 3100, www.hbm.com.au

Water treatment technologies

NEW ranges of environmentally friendly hydro-optic disinfection (HOD) water treatment technologies are being introduced to Australia by Eimco Water Technologies.

The new RZ series is said to offer an easily integrated modular system suitable for a broad range of applications, including aquaculture, dairy, food and beverage manufacturing, greenhouse, process water and pharmaceuticals.

Suitable for lower-flow applications than previously, the unparalleled levels of microbial inactivation achieved by the new RZ technologies are said to mean they offer the lowest disinfection costs per cubic meter of water.

The RZ104-11 and RZ104-12 models (respectively featuring single and twin UV lamps) both employ Atlantium’s principle of Total Internal Reflection (the same principle used in fibre-optic cables) to achieve a very uniform dose distribution which greatly enhances the disinfection performance.

The core of the system is a disinfection chamber made of quartz and surrounded by an air block. UV light from proprietary medium pressure, high intensity (MPHI) UV lamps is forced to repeatedly penetrate the quartz from one angle and to re-enter from another, to continue disinfection through the entire water volume.

Eimco Water Technologies 02 9542 2366, paul.keegan@glv.com.

RF power amplifiers

TESEQ (formerly the instrumentation division of Schaffner) has released a large range of RF broadband, power amplifiers covering frequencies to 6 GHz and with output powers to 1100W, suitable for EMC immunity/susceptibility testing including radiated and conducted interference testing protocol requirements for general, commercial, military and automotive applications.

The amplifiers are all class A and are capable of operating safely into open and short circuits, with low distortion, and linear performance.

The amplifiers are available with a large number convenient frequency break points allowing optimisation at various power levels.

A typical example is the Teseq CBA100M-110, 10 kHz to 110 MHz, class A, broadband amplifier.

The unit is powered from a switched mode power supply for high efficiency, high power factor and wide voltage range operation.

The unit is air-cooled with integral fans, and is protected against faulty cooling by excess temperature sensing.

A safety interlock connector is provided, which the user can short circuit to ground, to put the amplifier into standby mode.

Westek Electronics 03 9369 8802, www.westek.com.au.

Coating thickness measurement

SI Instruments has released the MiniTest 700 range of Digital Coating Thickness Gauges featuring SIDSP (Sensor-Integrated-Digital-Signal Processing) technology.

Digital sensors for coating thickness measurement based on the magnetic-induction or eddy currents principle combine the complete signal creation, measuring and processing unit inside the sensor.

The sensor is able to create all necessary control signals and to edit and process the return measuring signals digitally inside the sensor.

Only the completely processed, digital coating thickness values are transferred to the coating thickness gauge for display, statistical evaluation and storage.

The gauge no longer is used for processing the individual coating thickness values; it merely hosts and manages data, displays the data and exports it.

This technology only requires two simple analog modules that can be implemented compactly: a driver amplifier for controlling the sensor head and a measuring amplifier to amplify the measuring signal delivered by the measuring head. One single operating voltage is sufficient.

Embedded in an advanced microcomputer, the analog-to digital converters immediately create and process the alternating voltage signals required for measurement. The entire measurement is processed at the point of measurement, not in the host gauge.

SI Instruments 08 8352 5511, www.si-instruments.com.

Electric chain hoist

PWB Anchor has released the ER2 electric chain hoist.

According to the company, the hoist is environmentally friendly with a new compact, lightweight and energy efficient design.

Offering thermal protection to prevent the motor from overheating, upper and lower limit switches, CH (Counter/Hour) meter for recording and displaying of operational data, and featuring the variable speed inverter for superior load handling and positioning accuracy, are all provided as standard equipment.

PWB Anchor 1300 792 262, www.pwbanchor.com.au.

Thermal imaging cameras

FLIR Systems has released three new FLIR i-Series thermal imaging cameras – the i40, i50, and i60.

According to the company, the affordable i-Series cameras offer best-in-class infrared diagnostic capabilities for commercial applications.

The i-Series cameras support electromechanical applications and will occupy the segment of the market between the new, high volume FLIR i5 camera and the higher performance T-Series range.

The new cameras are said to set new benchmarks in temperature measurement and accuracy because of the adjustable emissivity feature built into the i-Series cameras and thermal sensitivity better than 0.1°C.

This ability to adjust for emissivity and reflectivity seen in objects such as shiny metal, plastics, wood and many other industrial environments provides for true accuracy in temperature measurements.

Flir Systems Australia 03 9550 2800, www.flir.com.au.

Variable frequency drive (VFD)

IMPROVED motor control and a simple plug-and-play philosophy for three-phase AC motor control is said to be one of many important benefits of WEG Australia’s local launch of the CFW-11 variable frequency drive (VFD).

Initially available to 88A with a second tier rated to 211A “on the water” and due for local delivery shortly, the CFW11 is described by the company as an exciting step that will benefit Australian users, technically, commercially and also environmentally.

All CFW11 Series feature a twin rating to allow the customer to select the product based on their machine installation demand and required overload ratings.

The drives have a 50°C Ambient temperature rating as standard and an IP54 rated heat-sink for feed-trough cabinet mounting.

The CFW11 has an internal RFI Filter and also feature built in DC inductors to meet EN standards for harmonic mitigation without additional external reactance devices.

Low energy consumption and high efficiency together with RoHS compliance give the product a minimal environmental impact.

WEG Australia 03 9765 4600, sean.richardson@weg.com.au.