Equipment/Software/Literature

Dec. 24, 2001
The DAQstation CX, a new member in the DAQstation family of data acquisition instruments, incorporates up to a maximum of six internal PID control loops and 16 externally connected controllers.

New data acquisition instrument

The DAQstation CX, a new member in the DAQstation family of data acquisition instruments, incorporates up to a maximum of six internal PID control loops and 16 externally connected controllers. The company calls it the next step in the new generation of advanced videographic recorders.

The CX offers a small-scale, install-and-control based data monitoring and logging system. The embedded control loops reduce the number of hardware components, and the use of a serial link to external (remote) controllers reduces the amount of wires.

This offers-in combination with preconfigured real-time, historical, information, control group, and PID tuning displays-an out of the box, ready to go solution, the firm notes.

The CX also includes a built-in web server and an e-mail generation function. The web server offers remote display control through the internet by using commercially available web browsers.

The e-mail function sends messages on alarm occurrence, periodic data, and report data.

The instrument is designed to meet the needs of operators, plant engineers and plant management. It features ease of use with a special mouse-like keypad and intuitive menus. The 10-Base-T Ethernet interface gives connectivity with LAN, WAN, and the internet. Users can choose from a range of graphical display screens to view measured data, alarm statuses, and messages. A color display promises clarity and definition of displayed information.

The company says it is easy to find specified historical trend data on the CX's displays, stored in its internal or external memory (floppy disk, ZIP, or ATA flash card). Automatic file transfer by the FTP protocol provides a solid data backup and makes the trend and event data, alarm logs, and summary reports available for engineers and management.

The DAQstation CX includes the CX1000 and CX2000 series. The CX2000 series features a large 10.4 in. high-resolution color display and is available with 10 or 20 universal inputs and 2, 4, or 6 embedded PID controllers. The smaller CX1000 series features a 5.5 in. high-resolution color display and is available with six universal inputs and two embedded PID controllers.

Dedicated software supports the new enhancements on top of functions like DAQstation remote configuration, file transfer, on-line monitoring, and historical trend analysis in a client/server PC environment.

Source: Yokogawa Europe BV, Databankweg 20, Amersfoort, Netherlands.

New safety interlocks help prevent valve control errors

The new QLS and GLS valve interlocks provide a mechanical process management system for potentially hazardous valve operations requiring strict sequential control. A new feature is on-site lock recoding, which lets plant managers quickly adapt interlocking sequences to changes in process logic.

Interlock process control systems are typically used to support 'permit to work' procedures during safety relief valve changeover, pig trap loading and retrieval, and filter changeover.

These new safety devices can be integrated with most quarter-turn and multiturn valves, up to 3 in. diameter, in ball, plug, gate, butterfly, and globe formats.

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Retrofitting on operational plant is possible without shutdown, since the interlocks simply replace original handwheels or levers, the company notes. Also, their fitting does not compromise the certified pressure envelopes of host valves.

Fitting kits can either be custom made, to match the top-works of a specific make and model of valve, or as universal fittings. The latter option enables the interlock to be resited and reused if the original plant is decommissioned.

Designed for long-term operation in onshore and offshore conditions, these interlocks are made from 316 grade, Duplex and SuperDuplex stainless steels. The standard finish is a bright yellow polyester powder coat (to RAL1021), which has high visibility for locating control valves in difficult conditions.

Operation is by cast stainless steel 'coded card' keys, which simply push in and pull out of anti-ingress and weather sealed apertures in the lock body. Lock mechanisms are maintenance-free.

Source: Smith Flow Control Ltd., 6 Waterside Business Park, Eastways Industrial Estate, Witham, Essex CM3 3YQ, UK.

Free 208 page computing handbook

The new PC Systems Handbook for Scientists and Engineers, yours free for the asking, features practical systems and components for industrial and scientific computing.

Hard-to-find industrial computing, data acquisition, and motion-control systems and components are described in the 208 page handbook.

Brief, clear descriptions of the capabilities and compatibilities of CPU cards, enclosures, work stations, displays, data-acquisition boards, stepping motors, controls, and accessories are featured.

Comparison charts highlight information engineers and scientists can use. Notes in each chapter help readers understand the fundamental properties and uses of the products.

Source: CyberResearch Inc., 25 Business Park Drive, Branford, CT 06405.