Equipment/Software/Literature

Aug. 9, 2004
Enhancements have been added to the VX500 dockable photoionization detector (PID). The new features increase its functionality and accuracy while maintaining its simplicity.

Dockable photoionization detector upgraded

Enhancements have been added to the VX500 dockable photoionization detector (PID). The new features increase its functionality and accuracy while maintaining its simplicity.

With the release of VX500 software version 3.01, new features include improved performance with more accurate readings at higher and lower temperatures. An alarm muting function is included, and improved menu navigation provides flexibility by permitting the user quickly to enter information and easily change response factors, calibration gas, and alarm settings.

One hundred built-in response factors take the guesswork out of instrument setup, while the five user-programmable favorites list allows easy access to the most commonly used settings.

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Other features include one-button calibration, field replaceable plug in detector, field replaceable 10.6 eV lamp, TWA, and STEL readings with peak-hold memory, and a time delay power button to prevent unintentional monitor shutoff. The PID is powered by either a rechargeable lithium ion battery allowing 18 hr of run time or replaceable alkaline batteries for 7 hr of continuous monitoring.

The VX500 is housed in a high-impact PC/ABS composite case and includes an internal pump that can draw remote gas samples from 100 ft away.

Source: Industrial Scientific Corp., 1001 Oakdale Rd., Oakdale, PA 15071.

New software for upstream applications

DecisionSite MapConnect is a new software product for oil and gas companies using analytic applications in exploration and production.

Also available is a new version of the DecisionSite application platform with enhancements for aiding in rapid configuration of new analytic applications and new deployment support for Sun Java System Portal Server, Java System Directory Server, and IBM Websphere.

MapConnect promises easily to link and combine map data with E&P project data so analysts can uncover hidden relationships, trends, and patterns and make faster, higher quality decisions. Decision- Site and DecisionSite MapConnect rapidly can be configured to support applications that help exploration teams make better, faster decisions about how to allocate capital investments among prospective wells and oil field assets. Example applications include prospect assessment and validation, environmental impact analysis, and pipeline security and safety management.

MapConnect requires a license of DecisionSite. The DecisionSite 7.3 release is available immediately to all Decision- Site customers under maintenance agreements with no additional license fee.

Source: Spotfire Inc., 212 Elm St., Somerville, MA 02144.

Flange protector for offshore uses, pipelines

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New Kleerband flange protectors are made of ultraviolet-resistant clear PVC and designed to protect studs and gaskets on raised face and ring type joint flanges from atmospheric corrosion encountered by offshore platforms and buried pipelines. The company says, that, with the use of its clear flange protectors and corrosion inhibitor grease, flanges remain safe from hazards and corrosion that can cause leakage, failure, or even shutdown of equipment.

Source: Advance Products & Systems Inc., Box 60399, Lafayette, LA 70596-0399.

New mud gauge

Here's the HDI 100 mud gauge, a new unit that helps eliminate maintenance concerns associated with hydraulic gauges.

Features include:

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1)Accurate readings in 10 psi increments throughout the gauge's pressure range.

2)Fast washout and kick detection because of greater sensitivity and accuracy, the firm says.

3)Improved safety from eliminating pressurized hydraulic fluids in the gauge head.

4)Continued operation even under extreme temperature conditions and harsh environments.

The HDI 100 can be ordered with a variety of connections for direct installation on stand pipes, mud pumps, and manifolds.

Source: Houston Digital Instruments, 4130 Directors Row, Houston, TX 77092.