AUTOMATION
Invensys Process Systems has launched the latest version of its AIM*AT plant information management system. The system incorporates a collection of integrated historian, analysis, desktop visualization and data connectivity software. The product is designed to improve real-time information management and decision support within a plant or across an enterprise. The supplier says that a number of global customers have already adopted the system, which provides a common company-wide, real-time decision support infrastructure.
Visit: www.foxboro.com

INSPECTION
A hand-held metal detector has been launched by Eriez Magnetics Europe. The portable device is designed to pinpoint the presence of small pieces of metal, either ferrous, non-ferrous or stainless steel in a wide range of products where the product steam is shallow, such as textiles, paper and thin food products. The supplier claims that the product, Metalarm, can detect down to a 1.0 mm sphere of metal and is a simple 'plug in and go' unit.
Fax: +44 29 2085 1314,
or visit: www.eriez.com

INSPECTION
Everest VIT claims that it has developed the first zero set-up digital inspection system that unites camera heads, rigid cable, light, remote control, monitor and computer in one portable unit. The Recon system inspects and records pipe conditions, blockages and welds, for example. An optional rechargeable battery pack is also available for inspections where A/C outlets are unavailable.
Visit: www.everestvit.com

PLUGS
Pipestoppers, a division of Huntingdon Fusion Techniques, has launched a range of expanding pipe plugs for diameters of 40 mm to 2,000 mm. The range is designed for sealing, stopping, testing and purging pipes and pipe work installations used in manufacturing raw materials for the paper industry. Each plug comprises two compression plates over a central shaft. A rubber ring between the compression plates is expanded by a wing nut on the shaft. When tightened, the wing nut closes the two plates and compresses the rubber ring seal between them to seal the plug tightly inside the pipe or tube.
Fax: +44 1480 412 841,
or visit: www.huntingfusion.com/pipestoppers

PRESSING
Eduard Küsters Maschinenfabrik and Bellmer have joined forces to produce a new wide nip shoe press called Twinningpress. The unit features a curved shoe which is pressed against the center roll. The companies say that the shoe design extends the press zone, as well as improving the press impulse compared to conventional presses with short nip.
Fax: +49 2151 34 1206,
or visit: www.kuesters.com

PRINTING
Giave of Spain has introduced a narrow web gravure press called the Multicolor. The press is said to be ideal for printing on delicate materials with tight register. The press is suitable for short and medium print runs due to quick order changeover times. The unit incorporates an easily removable impression roller, doctor blade with built-in adjustable rocker and drying systems. Tension control on the press allows printing of 9.0 µ aluminum foil, film and papers, according to the supplier.
Fax: +1 704 845 1539,
or email: JLMcD1492@aol.com

PROCESS CONTROL
ABB has developed a series of vibration, modal and structural analyses of paper machine operations at different speeds. The service is aimed at helping customers to realize the full manufacturer-recommended speed of their paper machines. The company says the Inform Diagnostics+ Speed-up Services identify problem speed ranges, characterize structural resonance at problem frequencies and provide engineering information. The data is used to devise and implement solutions for increasing machine speed.
Fax: +1 614 261 2222,
or visit: www.abb.com

ROLLS
Edlon has launched Teflon Roll Covers and Roll-Coat Coatings for dryer, carrying, lump-breaker and felt rolls. The heat-shrinkable covers and coatings are said to eliminate many traditional roll problems associated with paper production such as build-up, corrosion and frequent downtime for cleaning and maintenance. The high-release surfaces also resist adherence by foreign substances, according to the company. The covers and coatings are available for a variety of applications, including aluminum, brass, stainless steel, fiberglass, carbon steel and rubber.
Fax: +1 304 346 7714,
or visit: www.edlon-psi.com

John Crane introduces the Safeunit seal water system

SEALS
John Crane Safematic has developed a seal water system which ensures trouble-free operation of pumps and process machinery while reducing water consumption by up to 80%, according to the supplier. The Safeunit system is said to predict seal and packaging failures in advance. On top of that, the unit detects seal water leakage which avoids extra heating and evaporation costs or quality problems such as dilution. The system has a non-clog valve and can be cleaned while the equipment is running.
Fax: +358 14 600 600,
or visit: www.johncrane.com

VALVES
OKM has developed a new multi-seatable knife gate valve - the 336US-MS. The valve was designed for extended performance in the harsh environments common to the pulp, paper, chemicals and wastewater, as well as food and mining industries. The unit's valve seat design allows the seal ring to be replaced while avoiding the need to renew the entire valve, the company says. The stainless steel valve uses two jaws to push the knife gate against the seal and is said to ensure close contact and a self-cleaning, leak-free operation. US company, Iwatani International, is the main distributor of the product.
Visit: www.iwatani.com