Both on land and offshore, oil and gas production operations are subjecting pneumatic equipment to ever harsher conditions. For example, pneumatic actuators in oil and gas systems near the Arctic Circle may now have to operate in temperatures hovering around -60 F (151 C). To meet these new challenges, a UK firm is working to improve control systems for valve actuators subjected to high pressures and extreme temperatures. For demanding energy applications, the firm provides a package that includes visual, switching, and full-stroke linear transducer indication in a single sealed device expected to last for millions of operations.

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The Type-100 precision, multi-stage pressure regulator provides the highest level of regulation accuracy and repeatability available. Output pressure is controlled to within 0.1% of full range. The Type-100 is insensitive to changes in supply pressure and flow. Ideal for any process requiring very precise regulation of air pressure. Read more.

Micro Technologies, Tooling Group (MTS), located in both Pompano Beach, FL and San Jose, Costa Rica. Micro Technologies, Tooling Group specializes in precision tooling solutions. The Micro Group relies on for all product fabrication needs, stamping dies, molds, assembly systems, and various fixtures and components.

A new series of pneumatic rodless linear actuators is designed for reliable operation at temperatures as low as -40 C. The actuators include a PU inner seal and a steel outer seal that are supposed to prevent entry of particles and moisture. The actuators should last up to 8000 km without maintenance, according to the manufacturer.

In harsh environments, how do aluminum air cylinders stack up against those made of stainless steel? Demanding tests show that aluminum offers excellent corrosion resistance, according to a recently published white paper. In addition, corrosion-resistant aluminum cylinders can be much less expensive than their counterparts made of 303 and 304 stainless steel.

A new five-valve block-and-bleed manifold can be used to control air at a variety of industrial sites. The manifold is equipped with isolate, equalizing, and vent valves with stems machined with hard seats for lower operating torque. Flanged models of the manifold are designed for mounting to industrial differential pressure transmitters.

The recently expanded Nitra line of products for regulation of air-supply pressure features modular design that allows components to be added in field assembly. With a three-way, two-position design, pneumatic manual shut-off valves can cut off upstream pressure and relieve downstream pressure. The valves come with a padlock for their manually rotated knob.

The new Microtel MASS MTX vortex flow meters are the latest technology in Mass Flow Computing, and are becoming a paragon in the industry for complete mass flow computation. The Microtel MASS MTX line is loaded with feature-rich innovations that take the headache out of multi-variable flow instrumentation.

Proprietary seal technology and unique patented design enables HyperCyl® cylinders to equal and exceed conventional hydraulic system performance and reliability without the heat, noise, maintenance, and floor space associated with conventional hydraulic power units. From Aries Engineering Co., Inc.

Based on the pushrod principle that does away with complicated cross-head construction, K series compressors are designed for users in the food, pharmaceutical, and other industries looking for a low-cost means of producing oil-free compressed air. With two opposing pushrod units, the new K 15 can produce oil-free compressed air at rates up to 1.2 m³/min.

For more on this subject, subscribe to GlobalSpec's e-Newsletter, DirectU2 The world of Food & Beverage Technology.

Aimed at laboratory processing applications, a vacuum pump system allows wireless remote control of all modes and functions. Thanks to the wireless design, the pump can be located away from processing equipment and personnel without the need for connecting cables, saving space and increasing flexibility. A portable Bluetooth-enabled handheld terminal is used to change process parameters.

If you find this subject interesting, subscribe to the GlobalSpec e-Newsletter, DirectU2 The world of Lab Equipment.

Recent additions to this "smart" manometer line include four gauge pressure ranges, which now go as high as 3000 psig, and two absolute pressure ranges up to 1000 psia. In addition, the manometer now supports eight compound pressure ranges measuring from 15 to 3000 psig. Other features include backlights and an NIST-traceable certificate of calibration.

Featuring a compact footprint, this electro-pneumatic servo pressure transducer measures just 2 x 2.8 in. An available analog monitor offers outputs from 29 in. Hg to 600 psig. The transducer is suitable for a variety of OEM applications, including damper and process control and medical equipment such as ventilators and blood analyzers.

The 5th plant (Automated Warehouse). Mindman's automated warehouse has been established and started running with advantages and efficiency.

Mindman insists on the principle of sustainable management and keeps investing its facilities to enhance its comprehensive efficiency on production, customer service, and instant responses. See video.

Electro Standards provides controls for operating air clamps. Actuated by a double-acting foot switch, both hands are free for loading and unloading expediting work flow. This unit is ready to plug into a standard 110 VAC outlet. The unit is complete with a filter/suppressor, air pressure gauge, and pressure control valve.

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If the old guy down the hall can't help you, this Web-based application might fill the bill. According to the developer, engineers use the product to find answers to technical questions, in particular those that arise during product design and development. The product aims to provide access to reliable online reference sources and technical information engineers can easily incorporate in their work.

Both NASA and the European Space Agency have plans for inflatable modules that could someday house people living and working in space. These modules can be compared to large spacesuits: lightweight and flexible, but also tough and durable. A video shows what one such structure might have looked like on the International Space Station.

Getting the Best from Dispersed Design Teams

Dispersed design teams face difficulties not encountered by teams whose members all work in the same office. What are the keys to effective collaboration among designers working in different locations?