December 2000Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
One area where critical processes can suddenly be interrupted by loss of electrical power is in the cabinets containing the switching gear. Switch contacts can (in time) develop roughness and corroded surfaces from arcing, aggravated by any ingression of corrosive gases. As time goes by, the elevated contact temperatures accelerate the degradation of the contacts, until volt-drop problems occur, or complete contact failure results in a sudden loss of power to a critical process. Great damage could occur, with severe cost implications.
The problem can be detected quite early by monitoring the heat given off by the offending contacts. Traditionally, one would open the enclosure and take 'snap-shots' of the equipment within, using a thermal imaging camera. To be sure of finding problems before they became serious, this would have to be done regularly, using stored images to compare results, and then try to see if there are any significant tendencies towards excessive heating at any point in the switchgear. This would be a tedious and expensive task - often futile, as it is possible for switchgear to run for extended periods with few or no problems at all. Often some critical parts would be hidden behind other parts, or behind partitioning within the cabinet. Standard thermal imaging could not be used accurately to assess the condition of the switchgear under such circumstances.
The solution offered by Finger is elegant and simple, operates continuously and costs far less. Finger's solution, the Exertherm, is a system that makes use of infrared thermocouples. These detectors are small, require no power, exhibit a fast response (0,1 s) and are intrinsically safe.
They are mounted inside the switchgear cabinet; one sensor for each spot that is required to be monitored. A choice of different optic options caters for different distance/spot-size ratios. Each sensor monitors its own target, automatically referenced to the ambient temperature. They give an output that indicates the temperature rise above the ambient temperature. Since the sensors are small, standard cabinet arrangements may be used, with efficient use of available space.
This industry-proven system allows the sensors to be directly connected to the 8-channel data acquisition input cards and simple daisy chaining of cards makes for easy implementation. Connection is made to a PC via remote RS232. The easy to use software permits data to be logged and viewed in MS Excel, for a visual trend analysis. Two alarm points per channel provide adequate warning of potential problems, permitting maintenance to be carried out only when necessary, and when it would be convenient.
This product is recommended for the continuous monitoring of switchgear that is switching power to a critical process. Organisations to benefit can be diverse, ranging from financial services, telecommunications, IT, medical, petrochemical to defence, etc.
Elevating mining separation processes through precision instrumentation Endress+Hauser South Africa
Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
In mining operations, the quest for efficiency and productivity is key. There is an urgent need for innovative solutions to enhance the performance of extraction processes while balancing operational costs and environmental impact.
Read more...Alfa Laval launches next generation
Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
Alfa Laval has launched Clariot, a next generation, AI-based condition monitoring solution, precision-built for hygienic process equipment to deliver more accurate analysis and support.
Read more...The next generation in metal sorting Mecosa
Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
In the metal recycling industry, companies are increasingly challenged to not only improve the efficiency of their processes but also to raise the quality and purity of the sorted materials to new levels. By integrating proven spectral analysis technology into its market-leading REDWAVE XRF sorting system, REDWAVE is unlocking new opportunities for metal recycling, particularly in aluminium recovery.
Read more...Ensuring clean and safe water Endress+Hauser South Africa
Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
Endress+Hauser’s comprehensive range of disinfection sensors are designed to monitor and control disinfectant levels in water treatment processes.
Read more...Anton Paar launches inline refractometers for precision Brix monitoring Anton Paar
Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
[Sponsored] Anton Paar has introduced innovative inline refractometers that are designed for continuous Brix concentration monitoring in metalworking machines, fruit and vegetable processing and other industrial processes.
Read more...Supporting fast, safe helicopter service across Sweden ATEQ South Africa
Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
In an environment with high risks and fierce competition, Storm Heliworks’ fleet of eight helicopters operates on assignments throughout Scandinavia. Maintenance is critical, and the company recently invested in a battery charger analyser from ATEQ Aviation.
Read more...Leaders in sensor technology Gail Norton Instrumentation
Sensors & Transducers
Photoelectric eyes have always needed perfect working conditions, but in the workplace there is no such thing. Steam, water, light and dirt interfere with most photoelectric eyes, but never with a Telco sensor.
Read more...WearCheck introduces advanced Legionella testing to safeguard water quality Wearcheck
Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
WearCheck Water has expanded its expertise in water analysis with the introduction of Legionella pneumophila detection and enumeration. This positions the company at the forefront of water and surface safety monitoring, ensuring businesses, industries, and public institutions can proactively manage legionella contamination risks.
Read more...Silo weighing made easy - new mounting kit for load cells
Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
The PR 6003 mounting kit features fast commissioning in demanding applications in industrial silo weighing. It combines maximum accuracy with maximum safety in a compact system.
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.
printer friendly version