Calibration instrument range causes stir at MTEC
Calibration Dynamics enjoyed a hugely successful exhibition at MTEC Sensors, Measurement and Instrumentation Show 2007. Much anticipation had been created by recent press releases about the vast product range we would have on show and anyone who attended would not have been disappointed. From hand-held instruments, to portables, to fully automated systems and accessories there was something for everyone at the stand.
One of our main attractions was the new CPB 5000 from Mensor.
Eagerly awaited, this state of the art pressure balance caused quite a stir.
The sleek design teamed with cutting edge technology and exceptional user ability impressed many visitors at the show.
Seen on stand working in unison with the CPU 5000 intelligent calibration unit, previously complicated pressure calibration has never been so easy! The APC 600 series also sparked up a lot of interest.
This remarkably high spec instrument had been given rave reviews by Calibration Dynamics in the run up to MTEC and those that met it discovered why.
Removable transducer modules for immediate calibration, colour touch screen, ingenious software and the ability to run two independent channels in one device means that this automated pressure controller certainly deserved the praise.
Alongside these ran the launch of the Series 800 Automated Gas Pressure Controller.
Benefiting from many exceptional design features, the APC800 also earned itself much accolade.
Quiet operation thanks to unique control valve technology impressed production and laboratory engineers alike whilst the membrane keypad and ease of use was universally applauded.
It was clear that this instrument provides an industry leading solution to a wide variety of high pressure test and calibration applications, which is further enhanced by the availability of the APC800 - X; developed with a quartz reference transducer this derivative can offer accuracies as good as 0.008% reading.
Calibration Dynamics was proud of the wide range of devices that it presented at MTEC.
Not only did it showcase the vast product range available, but also represented the capability of the company as a whole.
The ability to calibrate and measure on site, in the field, in laboratory environments and to extreme ranges, alongside our commitment to fully support the devices we supply, combined with the training services that can be provided makes it clear that we are the total solution to your specific needs.
Pressure sensors for ammonia refrigerants
Pressure measurement sensors from AST are supplied for all refrigeration system requirements, including sensors for use on ammonia refrigerants
American Sensor Technologies (AST) offers a variety of pressure measurement sensors for integration into HVAC and refrigeration equipment. The AST sensors have a one-piece, stainless steel construction that contains no internal seals or gaskets. Additional features include a high cyclical life (>100 million full cycles), long-term stability and compound ranges with linear output through zero (i.e from -14.7 to +100PSI).
Each product ensures a high level of EMI/RFI protection, in addition to holding hazardous area approvals [for equipment installed in classified locations], RoHS compliance [when requested] and is listed under UL/cUL standards.
Due to customer demands, AST is responding to ammonia refrigeration pressure measurement requirements.
Refrigeration pump and compressor manufacturers are moving towards the improved efficiency of ammonia over Freon-based systems.
However, the thermodynamic behaviour of ammonia is very different from Freon.
When the refrigeration pump turns on, the ammonia temperature rapidly changes from 100F to -70F or below.
This accelerated change, along with the type of sensor diaphragm materials affects the pressure transducer performance and ultimately the control system.
O-ring sealed pressure sensors cannot withstand rapid thermal changes and over time the internal O-ring will fail.
Fluid filled sensors suffer from freezing effects, which lead to the rupture of the diaphragm membrane.
Thin film sensors [based on 15-5 and 17-4PH stainless steels] that have their diaphragm welded to a pressure port, will undergo thermal stresses that will eventually crack the steel.
Thermal Flash Protection is the technology applied by AST to reduce the effects of thermal flash transients when the medium is ammonia.
First, AST uses its one-piece stainless steel sensing element with 316L-wetted materials.
This element is free of welds, oil-fill and internal O-rings.
Next, a special non-clogging port design is used in order to minimise the extreme temperature change.
The sensor will recognize a uniform temperature as to maintain system stability.
To conclude, Thermal Flash Protection is the pressure sensing technology for ammonia refrigeration applications.
AST offers other HVAC/R solutions including an SAE4 (7/16-20 UNF) female pressure port that contains an internal Schraeder depressor pin.
This port allows the sensor to be easily removed or installed in service, eliminating the need for adaptors.
AST also manufactures additional pressure ports, such as 1/8” NPT, 1/4” NPT and SAE4 male.
Common applications for AST products are refrigeration pump controls, chillers, Freon and Ammonia cooling systems, high-pressure wells, boiler controllers and environmental testing.
For more information on pressure measurement, please visit our website or contact the factory direct.
Solid state pressure switch at new, low price
American Sensor Technologies announces a significant reduction in the price of its Model 1000 pressure switch. Previously priced at USD250 for low quantities of 1-9, AST now offers the media isolated pressure switch starting at USD195. The new, lower pricing schedule has been applied to all quantity levels.
‘This reduction is possible due to the increased AST manufacturing efficiency,’ commented Samuel Franzblau, AST Sales and Marketing Manager.
He also stated that lowered price can be attributed to ‘increased leveraging of buying power with vendors’.
The Model 1000 is a highly repeatable, stainless steel pressure switch designed for the measurement of gases and liquids that are compatible with stainless steel.
Its one-piece sensor element is a solid-state design, free of moving parts, internal O-rings, welds and fill fluid, all of which eliminate the chance of process contamination.
The switch mechanism includes a pair of isolated relays and is packaged with a high level of EMI/RFI protection (100V/m).
AST Model 1000 also has a wide operating temperature ranging from -40 to 85C (-40 to 185F).
The competitively priced pressure switch is offered with factory-set switch point and hysteresis.
Units offer switching capability of 1 amp at 24VDC or 0.5 amps at 125VAC, max.
Open or closed circuits are provided, based on customer’s defined switching point.
The sensor is available in switch points between 25 PSI and 10,000 PSI and with high purity finishes.
The heavy-duty relay contacts and high electrical isolation [up to 500VDC] allow this pressure switch to handle a variety of applications.
The Model 1000 is ideal for applications that require consistent repeatability, excellent long-term stability, trouble- free operation, long cyclical life and high performance.
Ideal applications include: test stands, hydraulic systems, refrigeration, off road, process control, compressors and oil and gas instrumentation.
For more information on this product, please visit the AST website, or contact the factory direct.
Measure mass flow, temperature and pressure!
The VPFlowScope measures mass flow, temperature and pressure simultaneously. The bright blue LCD display provides realtime information on all three parameters. Another important property of the VPFlowScope is the built-in datalogger.
This function enables you to store your data for a certain period of time.
The software allows for following your measurements realtime, processing data and printing reports.
Measuring the most important parameters at once makes extra sensors and cables redundant.
Information on the parameters is at your disposal every minute of the day.
The unit registers data, by merely pushing the record button, transfering data to your PC, within seconds.
* Modular concept, enhancing user flexibility.
* Easy-to-install, just mount the VPFlowScope in the pipe and you can start measuring immediately.
* No difficult programs to be followed.
* Cost saver.
* By implementing the VPFlowScope in your system, you will get insight in your energy consumption: Energy savings from system improvements can range from 20-50% of electricity consumption.
* Identify costly leaks.
* Standard outputs: 4..20 mA, RS485 (Modbus).
* Mounted via 0.5 inch compression fitting (included).
Compact, linear-output high vacuum gauge
The latest addition to the BOC Edwards range of Pirani vacuum gauges is the APG100 Series, designed for measurement of vacuum down to 10e-4mbar. The new gauge is lead-free, RoHS compliant and carries Canadian Safety Association approval. It is available in standard and corrosion-resistant versions.
OEMs and system integrators will particularly like the APG100 for its compact size (41 x 83 x 30mm), linear output (one volt per decade) and replaceable sensor tube, all of which make it a cost-effective choice as a system component.
Cable connections and the ‘calibrate’ and ’set point’ push buttons are arranged close together at one end of the unit, so side-access is not required, giving greater flexibility in system design.
There are NW16 and NW25 flange options as standard - other flange sizes can be supplied on request.
The APG100 sensor tube is replaceable.
If it should need to be changed, the tube is simply unclipped and replaced with a new one, with no need for special tools or training.
With the electronics module removed, the sensor tube can be baked to a temperature of 150degC where this is needed for systems operating at very low pressures.
The APG 100 is available in two versions; the APG100-XM is the standard version for measurement of vacuum to 10e-3mbar.
The APG100-XLC measures vacuum down to 10e-4mbar and has a corrosion resistant filament for harsher environments.