Check valve modules

D03 Sandwich Check Valve Compact Modules that offer reversible orientation are available from Adaconn and Inserta (www.inserta.com) along with two ICS check valve inserts.

Their steel construction allows the valves to be used in system pressures to 5,000 psi. In-line flow minimizes pressure drop and wasted horsepower. The valves can be ordered with orifices to provide economical fixed flow control.

4-20-mA option for pressure transducers

Mid-West Instrument (www.midwestinstrument.com) has introduced a 4-20-mA option for its Model 240 differential pressure transmitters. The new Model 240 is a simple, low-cost loop powered 8 Vdc to 28 Vdc two-wire transmitter using the same CSA, UL and ATEX rated sensor and explosion-proof housing used on the Model 240 with switches. The transmitter and its industrial-type terminal strip are in a heavy duty, cast aluminum housing. Wiring access is through a 0.5-in. NPT port. The unit is not yet listed for use in hazardous locations.

Accuracy is ±2 percent from 20 percent to 100 percent of full scale. Indicator accuracy is ±2 percent and is independent of the transmitter operation. This diaphragm operated unit provides total separation of high and low pressure by means of a convoluted elastomer diaphragm. The Model 240 can be used to measure pressure drop across filters, strainers, separators, valves and pumps. Pressure containing elements are available in aluminum or 316 stainless steel.

Warehouse optimization program

A new slotting solution introduced by Tom Zosel Associates (TZA) (www.tzaconsulting.com), comprised of software and engineering components, was designed to provide customers with increased capacity and throughput of existing facilities, maximum material flow and use of space, increased productivity and enhanced quality on a consistent and repeatable basis.

The program uses a cost-based evaluation model to calculate tradeoffs between square footage, replenishment costs, and picking productivity. It also incorporates an AutoCad three-dimensional graphic rendering capability for clear visual representation of SKU movement within a facility and enables the easy evaluation of alternative options and scenarios during planning and design phases of an operation.

The company said slotting delivers value by achieving consistent, repeatable results across a network of multiple facilities and by making re-slotting much less labor-intensive. An effective program can result in a six-to-ten percent improvement in affected areas, as well as an overall facility increase in throughput capacity because of a better leveraging of assets.

The ideal candidate for this program is a company with an SKU count that exceeds 5,000, managing multiple facilities and with multiple pick zones and methodologies. It is particularly valuable for companies with seasonal inventories or that implement promotional programs throughout the year that affect inventory volumes.

TZA's slotting methodology can be applied as a constrained analysis of an existing facility, or as an unconstrained analysis of a new operation during the planning and design phase. TZA offers a rapid deployment, in most cases rolling out a new project in three to five weeks.

Industrial strength pressure transducers

New PX309 Series pressure transducers from Omegadyne Inc. (www.omegadyne.com) are designed to be compatible with most process-control equipment.

The units offer a choice of absolute pressures from 5 psi to 300 psi, gage pressures from 1 psi to 10,000 psi, and three output ranges: 0 mV to 100 mV, 0 Vdc to 5 Vdc, and 4-20 mA.

All stainless steel construction provides durability for industrial applications.

Pressure ranges 50 psi and below plus all absolute-pressure ranges use a high stability semiconductor pressure sensor isolated via a fluid filled stainless steel diaphragm system.

Pressure ranges 100 psi and above use high accuracy silicon strain gages molecularly bonded to a stainless steel diaphragm. Three connection styles are available: 1.5-m (5-ft) cable, mini DIN (mating connector included) and military-style twist-lock. All models are RoHS and CE compliant.