Controller firmware enhanced
New controllers available to the industry are rugged, field-mountable platforms intended for those process applications that might have previously used programmable logic controllers.
When combined with MTL8000 process input-output components, this firm's controller offers cost savings as well as flexible system design and high system availability, the firm says. Controller firmware has been upgraded to make configuration easier and faster.
Controllers are suited for harsh process applications, with a wide operating temperature range and extensive redundancy options.
The company has enhanced the controller's firmware to make configuration easier and faster, added support for HART over Ethernet, and expanded modbus redundancy support to include the controller's serial ports.
The new firmware features include:
- On-line configuration. The controller can download an entire configuration without stopping module scanning.
- Autodetection of new I/O modules. This feature can be used to add modules to a running system or to autoconfigure a new system.
- On-line firmware download. This supports upgrading firmware in a redundant controller system without losing control of the process. The standby controller is initially upgraded, becoming the master controller. The firmware of the initial master is then updated. Master control can be turned back to the original controller if desired.
- AMS 6.1 support. HART pass-through support for AMS release 6.1 over Ethernet.
- Multidrop modbus master redundancy support—where two controllers are multidropped to the same link.
- Modbus floating point support.
- Enhanced network topology error diagnostics.
Source: MTL Open Systems Technologies, 9 Merrill Industrial Drive, Hampton, NH 03842.
New 6,000 psi retrievable packer
Here's the Hornet medium duty (MD) 6K retrievable packer for use in completing shallow wells and for waterflood and CO2 applications.
Rated for 6,000 psi, the Hornet MD addresses not only the physical environment but also the economics of moderately pressured production applications. Its lower end temperature rating of 45° F. helps ensure that it will fill any temperature requirement into the range of the Hornet 10K packer, the firm says.
The packer can be set on wireline or mechanically. It can be landed in tension, compression, or neutral; the ability to pack off with applied tension suits it for shallower applications. Setting and releasing with a one-quarter turn is made easier with an enhanced upper slip system. The slip wicker configuration provides bidirectional load support while facilitating easy release. The solid upper cone supports high tensile loads, and the staged release action eliminates high overpull requirements. Minimum set-down weight is required to anchor slips.
The bonded internal bypass system with no O-rings means fewer leak paths, the company notes.
The tool is available with NACE trim for H2S service and can be specified with 9 chrome flow wetted material, plastic coatings, or nickel plating as required for the application.
Source: Baker Oil Tools, Box 3048, Houston, TX 77253.
New transmitter aids oil, gas flow measurement
Here's the Model 4101 modbus multivariable transmitter.
It integrates multivariable sensor technology with the firm's implementation of industry-standard modbus. Any modbus master can access and control as many as 32 of these transmitters that are multidropped on the RS-485 bus. The 4101 is suited for use with SCADAPack controllers in oil and natural gas flow measurement. Likewise, any DCS, PLC, RTU, or gas flow computer that can act as a modbus master is compatible with the 4101.
The transmitter measures process temperature, process pressure, and differential pressure.
The unit is immune to atmospheric pressure variations and tolerates overpressure without degradation of the sensor element or zero shift.
Typical uses include natural gas flow measurement and measurement of level, pressure, and temperature within storage vessels and pipelines. The unit's hazardous area certification also suits it for petrochemical applications, the company notes.
Source: Control Microsystems Inc., 48 Steacie Drive, Kanata, Ont. K2K 2A9.
New pipe-handling tools
A new generation of pipe-handling tools includes the FG3A, FG2A, and SUCB power slip systems and FG6 with a pipe-centering device.
The FG3A handles 20 in. to 23/8 in. pipe, suited for 491/2 in. and larger rotary tables, and the FG2A handles 14 in. to 23/8 in. pipe, suited for 371/2 in. and larger rotary tables.
The SUCB handles up to 30 in. pipe sizes and 271/2 in. and larger rotaries.
Source: Den-Con Tool Co., Box 96308, Oklahoma City, OK 73143.
