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March 2010 |
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| Featured Articles |
Reduce the risk of system migrations
Control Engineering Europe, February 2010
By Frank Prendergast, Schneider Electric
Continually updating programmable logic control (PLC) systems can help facilities be more efficient, accommodate evolving needs, and better meet customer requests and deadlines. But an upgrade project is also one fraught with risk when it gets underway, and even after it is complete.
Infrastructure Retrofits
Power Engineering, February 2010
By Dan Heintzelman, GE Energy Services
By simply purchasing more new plant assets doesn’t always translate to improved business or bottom-line efficiency. What may make more sense for some utilities and industrial energy suppliers is to pursue a strategy based on utilizing the best available technology to maintain and improve existing assets and infrastructure.
Thermal Imaging For Cost Savings, Energy Conservation, and Innovation
IMPO, February 2010
By Sandra J. Blum, FLIR Systems
Thermography is used for monitoring and troubleshooting the condition of machinery, structures, and systems — not just inspecting electrical equipment. IR cameras are effective for improving manufacturing efficiencies, managing energy, improving product quality, and enhancing worker safety.
Field Failure Data: The Good, The Bad & The Ugly
Industrial Automation Asia, December 2009
By Dr William M Goble and Joseph F Siebert, Exida Consulting
Instrumentation field failure data must be provided along with a full explanation of the failure event definitions, methods for data collection and methods for data analysis including all assumptions. Without this, the results can be dangerous.
Prevent 24 VDC overloads from stopping production
What’s New in Process Technology, February 2010
By Siemens
Along with the laws of physics, engineers have to be aware of the law of unintended consequences. Take, for example, something as simple as the 24 VDC power supplies that feed the control circuits in automation systems as a case in point.
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| Sponsor: ISA |
ISA Automation Week
Call for Papers
Enhance your professional reputation while gaining powerful market exposure for your organization by sharing your technical expertise at ISA Automation Week 2010. ISA is now accepting abstract submittals for consideration to present at this prestigious technical conference and product showcase. Closes: 16 April 2010
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| Product Announcements |
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Control Microsystems adds video surveillance to ClearSCADA
When motion is detected, an alarm is raised and a video “snippet” is attached to the alarm message and sent to the central control site, showing what happened before and after the event. |
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Siemens announces Sitrans RD500 remote data manager
The Sitrans RD500 integrates Web access, alarm event handling and data capture for remote installed process instruments into a single device. |
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Emerson adds wireless to AMS Device Manager
Version 10.5 includes support for the WirelessHART standard, the Smart Wireless THUM Adapter, and a complete wireless diagnostics solution. |
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Honeywell upgrades ST 3000 pressure transmitter software
Enhanced on-board diagnostics for Foundation Fieldbus and HART 5 and 6 simplify maintenance by automatically telling plant personnel how the devices are functioning. |
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Tridium enhances NiagaraAX
Release 3.5 includes new productivity and tools features, host level features, station features and advanced SI/Developer functionality. |
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Fluke announces 810 Vibration Tester
Fluke 810 enables maintenance teams to rapidly collect data and diagnose and solve mechanical problems with an affordable, easy to use tool. |
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GE Intelligent Platforms introduces Durus Plus controller
Durus Plus is a low-end controller featuring RTD, analog out, four-function math, PID and the Modbus Master/Slave communications. |
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| Other Product Announcements
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| White Papers |
Automation and the Smart Grid: Energy Management Today
By Opto 22
This white paper takes a look at electrical power in the United States today, investigates the nature of the Smart Grid, and suggests ways that small and medium-sized companies can - without waiting for future technological development - gather energy data and control electrical energy costs today.
Information Strategies for Manufacturing Sustainability
By GE Intelligent Platforms
Manufacturers can greatly benefit from an integrated “big picture” view of their operations, whereby they can measure environmental factors alongside other operational metrics to gain visibility into where they may be disrupting stable processes, or conversely, where they are accepting waste simply because they do not realize it.
Tuning the Forgotten Loop
By Steve Rubin, Longwatch
The “forgotten loop” has been the operator, who is typically trained to “average” parameters to run adequately under most steady-state conditions. “Advanced tuning” of the operator could yield even better outputs, with higher quality, fewer errors and a wider response to fluctuating operating conditions. This paper explores the issue of improving operator actions, and a method for doing so.
A Revolutionary Approach: Quad Redundancy Control
By GE Intelligent Platforms
White paper describes GE Intelligent Platforms’ approach to redundancy, using four redundant controllers—a Master Controller and three synchronized backup controllers. If the Master Controller or any of the system components fail, the system identifies the best backup controller to take over.
Rockwell Automation publishes Energy-Management white paper
White paper outlines a methodology for industrial energy management that allows manufacturers to strategically and holistically improve energy use.
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| Resources & Literature |
Fluke publishes test tool catalog
64-page catalog covers electrical, HVAC, mechanical, controls, general operations, building diagnostics, and energy management.
Siemens announces Converting Toolbox automation tools
Converting Toolbox is a set of standardized automation tools for the integration of various machine components that previously had to be performed individually.
Fluke announces live chat service for thermography
Live chat service quickly answers questions Fluke customers may have about thermal imaging and Fluke thermography tools.
Yaskawa motor software available on iTunes
Savings Predictor software is now available on Apple iTunes for iPhone (OS 3.1.2 or later) and iPod touch. It estimates energy savings when using a Variable Frequency Drive.
PIDTutor publishes Split-Range Control Book
By George Buckbee, the book shows how to design, implement, and troubleshoot split-range controls. Book covers everything from valve set-up and calibration to split-range controller tuning, and compensation for non-linearities. 30 pages of details and color diagrams. Price: $14.95.
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| Application Stories |
Smart Compressors Drive Efficiencies
Control Engineering, February 2010
By Renee Robbins
New Siemens HMI and control systems allow Quincy Compressor to enable networked compressors, desktop data portals, and other innovations.
Chlorine analyzers monitor cooling water at Dow Terneuzen
Emerson's total chlorine analyzers are being used by DOW Benelux to improve the monitoring and control of chlorine in cooling water prior to its return to the sea.
Saia Burgess uses horizontal carousels to store parts
Saia Burgess, a manufacturer of motion control solutions, replaced stockroom shelving with four KardexRemstar horizontal carousels, pick-to-light technology and FastPic inventory management software.
Mesh network supports data center energy efficiency system
Dust Networks' SmartMesh wireless sensor networking technology is being used by Federspiel Controls to monitor cooling systems in data centers and reduce energy costs by up to 25%.
Uncovering seven uncommon IR thermometer applications
Plant Engineering, January 2010
By Brian Stowell, Fluke
Article describes how to use an IR thermometer to measure temperatures in a UPS, batteries, lighting fixtures, steam systems, HVAC, process and products.
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| Featured Training |
Boiler Control Systems Engineering
April 12, 2010 - April 14, 2010
Location: Resarch Triangle Park, NC, USA
This course covers the boiler components and their purpose. ISA symbols used in boiler control, how to identify the engineering and control of boilers using theses symbols, and a method of presenting the engineering.
Burner Management Systems Engineering Using NFPA Code 85 and ANSI/ISA77
April 15, 2010 - April 16, 2010
Location: Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
This course covers the safe start-up, monitoring, and shut-down of multiple burner boiler furnaces. It also discusses causes of furnace explosions and the relationship of burner management systems and boiler control systems. Prior attendance at ISA ES15 Course or an understanding of boilers and boiler control is assumed.
Industrial Wireless Systems
May 10, 2010
Location: Rochester, NY, USA
This course will cover the most relevant details associated with industrial wireless systems with an emphasis towards how the various technological choices coexist, interoperate and interact with each other. Numerous examples of real-world deployments are covered for facilities such as SCADA systems, petrochemical plants, electrical power generation, and transmission systems.
Strain Analysis and Load Measurement
May 10, 2010 - May 12, 2010
Location: Oxford, UK
The Stress Analysis and Load Measurement course provides instruction on the siting of strain gauges and the choice of gauge systems; it covers strain measurement, the correction of measured data, the determination of stress and yield load, the principal features of common load cells and refinement of the bridge circuit.
ISA Understanding and Applying Motor Controls and Drives
May 18, 2010 - May 20, 2010
Location: Houston, TX
This course give you a broad perspective of DC motors, AC motors (single & three-phase), and Variable Speed Drives (for AC Induction Motors and DC Motors). Industrial applications of Variable Speed Drives for constant torque, constant horsepower, and variable torque/variable horsepower are included.
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| Company & Organizational News |
ARC says prices are coming down on automation products
One element contributing to the price erosion is that controllers are rapidly becoming an automation commodity in some sectors.
IDC launches Engineering Institute of Technology distance learning
Engineering Institute of Technology focuses on advanced distance learning in engineering and technology in areas such as industrial automation, electrical and mechanical engineering and industrial IT.
WAGO offers free IEC 61131-3 training
WAGO is hosting five free IEC 61131-3 programming training seminars for customers at its Milwaukee area headquarters.
Australia fears power rate increases
Manufacturers’ Monthly, February 2010
By Rebekka Wake
The ongoing debate over Australia’s proposed Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme has generated widespread uncertainty inside the factories of industrial Australia. According to a recent report by the state's pricing regulator, electricity prices are set to rise between 58 and 62% over the next three years.
SUBNET to provide Substation Intelligence Training
Courses help SCADA engineers and other utility personnel evaluate, test, implement and troubleshoot multi-vendor substation communication devices.
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Browse more company and organizational news on the Plant Engineering & Maintenance portal. |
| Project News |
Vale Inco renews ABB full service agreement
ABB will continue managing maintenance activities at Vale Inco Newfoundland & Labrador.
Invensys to install IntelaTrac Mobile Solution for Chevron
The mobile solution will support Chevron’s upstream operations with configurable software and ruggedized mobile hardware solutions that enable workers to better manage workflow, procedural and general management tasks.
Matrikon to supply Control Performance Suite software to BASF
Matrikon Deutschland entered a license agreement with BASF for all production facilities worldwide to integrate and use Matrikon’s Control Performance software.
GE Intelligent Platforms to control Qatar Steel
GE will supply Proficy software including Plant Applications, Historian, iFIX and Portal rolled out in a phased format led by a significant pilot project.
Rockwell Automation to make University of Iowa green
Rockwell Software will help university staff determine optimal production levels for steam, chilled water and electricity generation to help reduce energy consumption, costs and environmental impact.
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| Featured Events |
Hannover Messe 2010
April 19, 2010 - April 23, 2010
Location: Hannover, Germany
The world's leading showcase for industrial technology is staged annually in Hannover, Germany. Italy to be featured as its official Partner Country. In 2010 the spotlight will be on industrial automation, energy, technology, industrial subcontracting and cutting-edge technologies.
Deacom User Conference
May 11, 2010 - May 12, 2010
Location: Philadelphia, PA
The 2010 Deacom User Conference will review the latest software releases, including DEACOM 12.1, as well as future development plans for the ERP software system.
ABB Automation & Power World 2010
May 18, 2010 - May 20, 2010
Location: Houston, TX, USA
Automation & Power World was designed with a specific focus - to provide engineers and business leaders with a single event where they can experience and learn the latest in Automation and Power technology, and more importantly how it can benefit their business' profitability.
Automation & Robotics World Show 2010
August 26, 2010 - August 29, 2010
Location: Pune, Maharashtra, India
Automation & Robotics World Show 10, the country's most awaited exhibition gives a way to success to the new innovations and opportunities for that vast industrial segment comprising of power, Pharmaceutical, Terminal Automation, and Tank Farm Automation.
International Manufacturing Technology Show
September 13, 2010 - September 18, 2010
Location: Chicago, IL, USA
IMTS - The International Manufacturing Technology Show management will host the first-ever Industry Inspiration Day as part of the September 13 kick-off for the all-new IMTS Industry & Technology Conference.
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Add an event to our calendar. |
I hope you enjoyed this Plant Engineering & Maintenance update. If you have any comments or suggestions regarding the content in this e-newsletter or on Automation.com, please don't hesitate to contact me.
Rick Zabel
Vice President, Publisher
Automation.com
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