Equipment/Software/Literature

Jan. 13, 2003
The new Liquiphant FTL 20 point level switch provides liquids level measurement.

Level switch for liquids fits inside 1/2 in. pipe

The new Liquiphant FTL 20 point level switch provides liquids level measurement.

Its smaller size permits the measuring fork to fit inside pipe sizes as small as 1/2 in.

The company says the FTL 20 can replace float switches, capacitance probes, ultrasonic gap switches, and conductivity probes. It promises a reliable level measurement in all types of liquids: independent of electrical properties, turbulence, material buildup, solids content, suspended particles, gas bubbles, and external vibration. The FTL 20's switch point is not affected by liquids of varying density, viscosity, capacitance, or conductivity; nor is it affected by foam, wide temperature, and pressure shifts.

It comes with AS-i electronics, allowing simple integration to existing bus structures. It is also available with AC or DC-PNP outputs.

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The switch is suited for maximum detection, minimum detection in tanks and dry running pump protection in pipelines.

Source: Endress+Hauser Inc., 2350 Endress Pl., Greenwood, IN 46143.

New fiber optic downhole instrumentation systems

Newly launched LightSense 3C pressure-temperature-vibration sensing system and LightSense 400 real-time distributed temperature sensing system are designed for permanent downhole installation in wells to 12 km.

Both systems utilize a new type of ultrareliable fiber-optic Fiber Bragg Grating sensor designed by this firm to provide operational longevity of more than 10 years in the most extreme downhole environments. The turnkey systems come complete with the sensor-telemetry cables and the topside interrogation electronics.

LightSense 3C can be equipped with one, two, or three separate fiber optic sensors, and it can be configured in various combinations of temperature, pressure, and vibration.

The system develops pressure readings accurate to 0.1% of full scale, 1 time/sec (1 hz). Vibration may be monitored up to 4,000 hz. The stainless-steel jacketed sensor cable, available in lengths up to 12 km, can withstand operating pressures up to 10,000 psi and temperatures from –25° C. to +200° C.

Communication is via wired or wireless Ethernet, and the industry-standard SCADA protocol is supported.

Meanwhile, the LightSense 400's 400-channel (100 channels per fiber), real-time system provides temperature readings at a 1 hz update rate, giving aggregate temperature readings of 400/sec. In addition, operators may replace any of the four 100-channel temperature-sensing fibers with a pressure sensor fiber to create a hybrid temperature-pressure system.

Temperature resolution is 0.25° C. with absolute accuracy at 0.5° C. The stainless-steel jacketed sensor cables are rated to 20,000 psi and temperatures of –25° C. to +250° C.

Source: Sensor Systems Div., Sabeus Photonics Inc., 20630 Nordhoff St., Chatsworth, CA 91311.

Catalog describes metering pump systems, packages

A new CD ROM catalog, yours free upon request, describes a full range of metering pump systems and packages.

It provides an overview of metering principles and critical issues and includes several application examples.

It describes what metering is as a process step, the principles of metering, including the most important properties of metering pumps, the metering flow equation, and applications for these pumps. Alternative pump head designs, drive elements, and motors, along with specific product examples and specifications, are included.

The CD ROM catalog allows users to select and specify metering and mixing pumps and packages ranging from skids to fully automated PLC packages.

Source: American Lewa Inc., Box 6820, Holliston, MA 01746.

Workbench redesigned, improved

The RollaBench mobile maintenance and repair shop has undergone redesign and improvements in an expanded offering.

The maker says its product has easy manually pushed mobility. It is equipped with the company's Industrial Truk wheel system, which provides an easy and comfortable push or pulling effort of less than 8 lb for each 2,000 lb of gross vehicle weight. This low pushing effort makes it practical to move 2,000 lb or more of tools, equipment, parts, and supplies right up to the job site, the company says.

RollaBenches are of all steel, all welded construction.

Models are available with five to 17 lockable drawers and lockable cupboard areas to carry and store tools, supplies, and parts. All models have a 27 in. wide by 54 in. long heavy steel top workbench surface. Mechanics vises, pipe vises, and other equipment can be factory or user installed.

Options are also available including masonite or maple workbench tops, built-in electrical outlets, side saddle for carrying along pipe, tubing conduit, and other long shapes.

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Adjustable height work platforms, which are built into the bench, are available to handle overhead work. The bench can be equipped with a tow bar for long distance towing by powered equipment.

Some models are equipped to incorporate a welding machine or air compressor or drill press on an extended compact platform.

Source: Torqer Inc., 1145 Galewood Ave., Cleveland, OH 44110.