WNIP SEPT OCT 19.5 DIGITAL

1 

19.5 

STAINLESS STEEL 

LASER DISTANCE 

SENSOR. 

Q4X Laser 

Distance Sensor 

Reliable sensing across 

a variety of difficult targets, 

materials and surfaces 

Real-time distance 

measurement for faster setup 

and troubleshooting 

Reduce downtime due to 

broken sensors with an 

IP69K-rated, FDA-grade 

stainless steel housing 

www.retautomation.com 

With superior performance and rugged durability, the Q4X 

provides reliable detection when other sensors can’t. An FDAgrade 

stainless steel housing means the Q4X stands up in the 

most aggressive washdown procedures. The Q4X is the right 

choice for your most challenging applications. 

RET Automation Controls (Pty) Ltd 

P.O. Box 8378 | Edenglen 1613 | Phone: 011 453 2468 

sales@retautomation.com 

B72

2 


The radar sensor for bulk solids - 

VEGAPULS 69 

Level measurement with bulk solids radar, making the impossible possible: 

The most modern radar level technology and a frequency range of 80 GHz has made the new 

VEGAPULS 69 radar the sensor of choice for bulk solids industries. This sensor is capable of 

measuring poorly reflecting bulk solids over long ranges, in narrow, or even segmented 

vessels. 

·Measuring range: up to 120 m 

·Encapsulated antennas: 

reliable results even with buildup 

·Very good focusing: simplifies the setup 

·One device for all bulk solids: 

Standardization of sensors 

For more information contact 

Chantal Groom, VEGA Controls SA 

+27 (0) 11 795 3249 

chantal.groom@vega.com 

www.vega.com

3 

On the Cover... 


Laser distance sensor 

provides superior 

performance for challenging 

applications 

Volume 19.5 

Editor 

Debbie Scott 

debbiewnip@mweb.co.za 

Graphic Designer /Sub-editor 

Melissa Scheepers 

melzdesignz1@gmail.com 

Advertising Sales Manager 

Roxanne Bredenkamp 

roxannewnip@mweb.co.za 

Published by 

What’s New in Publishing cc 

ck 2000/077679/27 

PO Box 2214 

Primrose 1416 

South Africa 

Tel: 0861 PROCES (776 237) 

Fax: 086 723 5321 

Printed by: Raptor Print 

Views expressed in this publication do not 

necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. 

Copyright reserved on all material 

RET Automation Controls is proud to 

present the Q4X laser distance sensor 

from Banner Engineering. Featuring 

superior, versatile sensing performance, 

the Q4X sensors are available with bipolar 

discrete (NPN and PNP) and analog (0-10 

V or 4-20 mA) output options. With highresolution 

capabilities, discrete models 

can detect objects as thin as 0.5 mm, 

while analog models precisely inspect 

part dimensions and positioning with 

resolution down to 0.15 mm. The Q4X 

is available in two sensing ranges, 25 to 

100mm or 25 to 300mm. 

Banner’s Q4X is ideal for difficult 

distance-based sensing applications as it 

easily detects objects regardless of target 

surface reflectivity, including black foam on 

black plastic, black rubber in front of metal, 

multicolour packaging and targets of all 

colours. Also available with a dual teach 

mode, discrete Q4X sensors can detect 

clear objects or changes in signal intensity 

due to changing colour or reflectivity. 

The dual teach mode in the Q4X 

sensor combines window thresholds on 

both target distance and target reflected 

intensity, allowing the Q4X to reliably 

solve difficult applications with ease. The 

Q4X can now detect clear objects without 

requiring a retro-reflector. Dual mode can 

be used to error-proof applications by 

ensuring the correct colour part is located 

at the correct position. With the dual teach 

mode, the sensor can detect small changes 

in reflected intensity for targets inside 

the distance threshold. This powerful 

combination allows the Q4X to solve many 

new applications. 

“Incorporating the innovative dual 

teach mode into the next-generation Q4X 

sensor provides our customers with a more 

powerful sensing solution for their most 

difficult applications,” said Dennis Smith, 

Senior Technical Marketing Manager, 

Banner Engineering. “With combined 

intensity and distance thresholds, the 

Q4X extends its world class sensing 

performance to clear object detection and 

common error-proofing applications.” 

Offering a simplified user experience, 

the Q4X provides a clear distance readout 

from the highly visible, angled four-digit 

display that is easily viewed from multiple 

vantage points. The Q4X also offers intuitive 

user setup utilizing three tactile buttons 

conveniently located below the display. 

For use in wet and high-pressure 

washdown environments, the Q4X is 

constructed with robust housing rated to 

IP69K. Durable FDA-grade stainless steel 

resists mechanical impact, over tightening 

and extreme vibration. 

To accommodate diverse industries 

and applications, the Q4X provides reliable 

detection of: 

• Black foam in front of black plastic in automotive 

interior and exterior assembly 

• Parts of varying colours in consumer 

packaged goods and automotive industries 

• Black rubber in front of metal in robotic 

assembly, especially automotive 

• Multicoloured packaging and secondary 

packaging in food, beverage and 

cosmetics 

• Part-in-place for error proofing of assembly 

steps 

• Small parts for automated assembly 

processes, such as caps, seals, o-rings, 

washers, vials and jars 

• A wide array of parts in vibratory feeder 

bowl equipment, including part level 

detection in the bowl (bowl empty, bowl 

full), and part present in the feeder track 

(i.e. track full) 

• Fill level indication, part positioning, 

roll diameter, loop control and thickness/ 

height verification 

• Clear object detection applications 

such as thermal formers, blow moulding, 

bottle filling, bottle handling, shrink-wrap 

packaging, and bottle, jar or tray detection. 

Contact RET Automation Controls 

to see if we can solve your challenging 

applications or to arrange a demonstration . 

brandon.topham@retautomation.com 

Tel. +27 11 453 2468 

www.retautomation.com

4 


Thermal imaging reduces downtime and improves safety 

A thermal imaging service designed to reduce plant breakdowns, minimise costly 

repairs, optimise the production process and improve safety in the workplace. 

Magnet’s newly established 

division – Magnet Electrical 

Projects – offers a critical service 

to all industries in the electrical 

and instrumentation sectors, 

including solutions for hazardous 

environments. 

“Although the Magnet Group 

has provided a service to support 

electrical equipment, industrial 

instrumentation and automation 

throughout the country for over 

20 years, increased demand for 

expert solutions has led to the 

establishment of Magnet’s new 

formalised division,” says Johan 

Roets, training and site inspection 

manager, Magnet Electrical 

Projects. “Four specialist solutions 

sectors of this division include 

panels, automation, metering and 

onsite services. 

“Magnet’s onsite services 

encompass power quality analysis, 

electrical compliance auditing and 

power factor correction, as well as 

onsite electrical installations and 

the retrofit of air circuit breakers. 

“Magnet’s thermal imaging 

service has been designed 

to reduce plant breakdowns, 

minimise costly repairs, optimise 

the production process and 

improve safety in the workplace. 

By detecting irregularities that are 

usually invisible to the naked eye, 

thermal imaging – which is one 

of the most valuable diagnostic 

tools for industrial applications - 

allows corrective action to be taken 

before costly system failures or fires 

occur.” 

Magnet’s thermal imaging 

service forms part of a condition 

monitoring programme to 

determine when and where 

maintenance is needed in electrical 

and mechanical installations and 

PQ-Box 200 is a network power analyser, power meter and transient recorder in one 

instrument, has been developed by a-eberle especially for mobile operation and is 

suitable for measurements in public networks, installation category CAT IV. 

components. By using reliable, 

non invasive thermal imaging 

instruments, which are able to 

scan and visualise the temperature 

distribution of entire surfaces 

of machinery and electrical 

equipment quickly and accurately, 

preventative action is taken in the 

event of a fault. What’s important 

for production plants, is Magnet is 

able to perform inspections, even 

when systems are under load. 

This specialist service 

encompasses the provision of 

a full image of each situation 

and accurate temperature data 

during the monitoring of high 

voltage equipment, low voltage 

cabinets, motors, pumps and high 

temperature equipment, as well 

the detection of insulation losses. 

A small electrical problem can 

have far reaching consequences. 

As the efficiency of the electrical 

grid becomes low, more energy 

is used generating heat. If left 

unchecked, this heat can rise to 

the point where connections 

start to melt and this can result in a 

devastating fire. 

Magnet Electrical Projects is 

able to identify and locate a fault 

before costly problems occur and 

also advise exactly what needs 

to be fixed. This thermal imaging 

service - which extends from the 

examination of a fuse box, to the 

inspection of a large industrial 

installation - ensures cost savings, 

reduced downtime and improved 

safety standards. 

samantham@ 

magnetgroup.co.za 

Compact chilled mirror hygrometer gives high accuracy for 

reliable control of sintering processes 

The new S8000RS chilledmirror 

hygrometer offers an 

accuracy of ±0.1°C, with a wide 

measurement range of -90 to 

+20°C dew point, making it the 

ideal choice for moisture control 

in a range of metallurgical 

processes, including sintering. 

Sintering is a process where 

powdered metals are bonded 

together to form light and strong 

products, from filters to machine 

parts. Because the powdered 

metal is not fully melted, the 

temperatures involved are 

relatively low – around 600°C – 

but careful control of moisture is 

essential to ensure the finished 

quality. 

Because the raw material 

is powdered metal, moisture 

present in the furnace could cause 

clumping or, as the moisture 

evaporates in the heat, large holes 

being created in the finished 

product. To avoid this, accurate 

control and measurement of 

moisture is vital. 

For sintering carried out 600°C, 

maintaining a constant dew point 

of -60°C in the furnace is necessary 

and the gas is sampled at several 

points in the process. 

A fast-responding moisture 

analyzer is essential so that action 

may be taken quickly if moisture 

levels rise above acceptable limits. 

Michell’s S8000RS uses the 

fundamental chilled mirror 

technique to measure moisture, 

which ensures long-term accuracy 

to ±0.1°C dew point as well as 

reliability and a fast response. 

The measurement range of -80 

to+20°C dp is ideal to ensure 

consistent monitoring at -60°C 

with confidence in the accuracy. 

The S8000RS is the smallest 

hygrometer on the market 

which is able to reliably reach 

dew points of -80°C. This small 

size is possible because it does 

not require any external cooling, 

which makes it well-suited to 

metallurgical applications where 

its small footprint makes it easy 

to install in an air conditioned 

instrumentation cabinet. 

sales@instrotech.co.za

5 


Temperature measurement evolves 

Through the ages, various 

techniques and devices have 

been used in an effort to measure 

and compare temperature 

conditions: for example, the 

reference points of boiling water 

and melting ice. 

In the early days of ceramics 

manufacture, the craftsman 

used materials which indicated 

through deformation that certain 

(higher) temperatures had been 

reached. 

Bakers on the other hand used 

a piece of paper, the quicker it 

became brown the hotter the oven. 

It was known that specific 

materials changed state at set 

temperatures and this formed 

the basis of temperature 

measurement. 

The disadvantage of these 

techniques was that they were not 

reversible. In addition, the accuracy 

of the results was very dependent 

on the user and their experience. 

Thermocouples make things 

easier 

It was not until the discovery 

of thermometers, a little over 400 

years ago, that actual temperature 

conditions could accurately be 

measured. 

It was determined that a probe 

made of two different conductors 

forming a junction at one end had 

certain temperature dependent 

voltage producing properties – the 

thermoelectric effect. 

This voltage is proportional 

to the temperature difference 

between the hot and cold 

junctions. 

Commercial 

thermocouples are inexpensive 

and can be used in a wide range of 

temperature applications. 

Their main limitation is 

accuracy, they have to be in contact 

with the high temperature and 

system errors of less than 1°C are 

difficult to obtain. 

The emergence of infrared 

The discovery of infrared 

radiation by the physicist Wilhelm 

Herschel at the beginning of 

the 19th century opened up 

new possibilities for measuring 

temperature – without contact 

and thus without affecting the 

object being measured and the 

measurement device itself. 

Compared to early infrared 

temperature measurement 

devices, which were heavy, 

awkward and complicated to 

operate, the image of such devices 

today has completely changed. 

Modern infrared thermometers 

are small, ergonomic, easy to 

operate and can even be installed 

into machinery. 

From versatile handheld 

devices to special sensors for 

integration into existing process 

systems, the spectrum of product 

offerings is vast, with a variety 

of accessories and software for 

the collection and analysis of 

measurement data provided by 

the majority of suppliers. 

An IR thermometer can be 

compared to the human eye. The 

lens of the eye represents the 

optics through which the radiation 

(flow of photons) from the object 

reaches the photo-sensitive layer 

(retina) via the atmosphere. 

This is converted into a signal 

that is sent to the brain. Simple 

single point IR temperature 

measurement has evolved into 

units that now display thermal 

images used in applications that 

monitor on-line real-time molten 

steel temperature, to hot-spot 

technology that helps umpires 

decide if a batsman is out or not 

after a catch has been taken. 

The advantages of IR 

thermometers include: 

• Fast measurements 

(milliseconds). 

• Measurement on moving and 

difficult to reach objects. 

• Hot objects (> 2000°C). 

• Feedback-free measurement. 

info@randci.co.za 

Show-Off! 

Looking for an allrounder? Bürkert has it – the new multiCELL multichannel transmitter/controller. 

Beyond the standard versions, which offer various options for measuring pH, redox potential and 

conductivity, there are a number of additional software and hardware extensions available – e.g. for 

additional flow measurement, control functions and signal inputs. With just one device you get exactly 

what you need for your measuring requirements, whilst saving you not only money but also handling 

and storage resources. 

Want to know more? Just call: +27 (0)11 574 6000 or e-mail sales.za@burkert.com.

6 


All-in-one measurement station 

The Leuze LSC 200 is a complete 

system or all-in-one measurement 

station. 

Depending on the application, 

sensors can be used for 

object measurement as well as for 

objection detection. The Leuze 

LSC 200 is a complete system, or 

all-in-one measurement station, 

and is suited to applications in 

intralogistics and packaging 

operations where sensors and 

evaluation units are optimally 

The Leuze LSC 200 can also be expanded 

with sensors that perform 

identification tasks. 

matched to one another. 

Pre-installed software on 

the evaluation unit performs 

data acquisition as well as preprocessing 

and, depending on the 

task, the extraction of user data. 

The user data is made available 

via defined interfaces, such as 

Profibus, TCP/IP. 

This type of measurement 

station is much more than simply a 

complete system. Due to its flexible 

adaptability, it can serve as a 

solution platform for certain tasks, 

whereby, again task dependent, 

sensors with a wide range of 

performance capabilities are 

connected and evaluated. 

Essentially this means that 

the Leuze LSC 200 can also be 

expanded with sensors that 

perform identification tasks, such 

as bar code readers. Dimensions 

can be measured with, for 

example, three light curtains 

(length, width, height) using the 

optical throughbeam method. 

And if necessary, the width and 

height measurement can also be 

measured using scanning light 

section sensors or laser scanners. 

The length measurement can be 

optionally performed using an 

incremental transmitter. 

Depending on the sensors 

used and the properties of the 

objects that are to be measured, 

various filters can also be set in the 

evaluation software for optimising 

the measurement values. 

The adaptation of parameters, 

such as the offset adjustment 

when using light curtains, can be 

performed by means of a GUI. 

Leuze LSC 200 stations with 

Leuze CML 700i Series light 

curtains contain an integrated 

web visualisation system, adding 

even greater capability to this 

sensing solution. With this, the 

measurement values can be 

displayed and adjustment values 

set remotely via a standard Internet 

browser. 

bryant@countapulse.co.za 

Control valve now available in ANSI Class 600 and PN 63 

The ARCA ECOTROL® 8C control 

valve has proven itself in the 

process chemical, oil & gas as well 

and power generation industries 

for many years. 

The unique cage retainer / 

clamping seat system enables 

simple maintenance to be done 

without the need for special tools. 

The ECOTROL offers a wide 

range of process tailored valve 

internals, including standard 

parabolic plugs (either metal 

seated or with the patented Arca 

soft seal system), multistage lownoise 

perforated as well as double 

guided valve plugs. 

The gland packing system 

is certified according to TA Luft 

respectively ISO15848 Class B for a 

temperature range from -46 up to 

+200°C. 

ARCA of Germany have now 

extended the range to include 

valves with ANSI 600 and PN63 

flanges or butt-welded ends. 

The valves meets ASTM and 

ASME standards applicable to the 

chemical and oil & gas industries. 

With the associated ARCA actuator 

type 812 with its innovative multispring 

field reversible diaphragm 

and associated intelligent 

positioners and optional 

spring chamber blanketing 

with instrument air, the ARCA 

ECOTROL® 8C is a technically, ecofriendly 

and economical process 

control valve solution. 

sales@valve.co.za 

Compact portable hygrometer for convenient spot checks 

The new MDM50 portable 

hygrometer quickly and 

simply takes spot checks of dew 

point or moisture content down 

to -50°C dew point. 

Because it has its own selfcontained 

sampling system, 

setting up the MDM50 involves 

simply connecting the hose to the 

sample point: there are no extra 

sample conditioning add-ons to 

purchase or to carry around. 

The integral sampling system 

allows for measurements of dew 

point to be made at pressure, 

up to 20 barg, with an option 

available to measure up to 300 

barg. The integrated filter removes 

particulates down to 0.3μm which 

provides 99.5% protection to the 

sensor. 

The 

fast-responding 

polymer moisture sensor of the 

MDM50 gives rapid dew-point 

measurements in compressed air – 

T95 to -35°C from ambient typically 

in less than 5 minutes. 

The sensing element is highly 

stable, resistant to contamination 

and, along with the robust and 

sturdy case, this means the 

hygrometer is well-suited to 

the often tough conditions in 

industrial applications. 

A long battery life is essential 

for making measurements in the 

field, especially in locations where 

there is limited access to charging 

points, so the MDM50 portable 

hygrometer has an operation 

time of 16 hours on one full 

charge. This means users have the 

confidence that they can work all 

day without having to stop taking 

measurements for charging. 

A universal charger is included 

with the unit and stored in its case, 

for when not in use. 

As well as dew point in 

compressed/instrument-air 

dryers, typical applications for 

the MDM50 include moisture 

measurements in medical gases, 

polymer chip and the output from 

refrigerated dryers. 


7 


Protect analogue camera 

systems with 3-in-1 surge 

arrester 

Factors including low cost, 

compatibility with other 

components, a wide range of 

video signals and the protection 

of existing systems have made 

certain that analogue CCTV 

cameras are still widely used. 

A compact arrester ensuring 

the protection and availability of 

video transmission systems, the 

DEHNvario 3in1 surge arrester 

guarantees unrestricted operation 

of analogue camera and video 

transmission systems, even 

during thunderstorms. 

Representing a new 

generation of arresters that 

protects different signals of 

power supply and information 

technology systems, the 

DEHNvario stands out due 

to its extremely flexible 

connection technology. This 

complete solution protects 

three interfaces in a single 

device: the supply voltage; data 

interface; and video signal. This 

largely eliminates an incorrect 

selection of devices. 

The DEHNvario 3in1 

solution is ideally suited for 

analogue cameras that require: 

• Power feed 

• RS485 feed (pan, tilt, zoom 

functions); 

• and analogue video signals 

feed (BNC). 

With its high discharge 

capacity of up to 5 kA (8/20 µs) 

per core, it can be used according 

to the lightning protection zone 

concept at the boundaries from 

0B to 2 and higher. 

kirk.risch@dehn-africa.com 

M12 for demanding 

applications 

Most applications require 

special solutions. Only high 

quality materials, safe production 

processes and faultless mounting 

lead to success in the long 

run. The integrated end stop 

protects the O-ring against 

destruction caused by 

tightening the nut too much. 

Mounting and removal are 

carried out without tools. 

The asymmetrically acting 

vibration protection holds 

the nut tight in its position, 

guaranteeing an optimum and 

permanent seal. High-quality 

materials especially adapted to 

the application and intensive 

monitoring during and 

after production guarantee 

maximum quality standards. 

Applications: Factory 

automation, machine tool 

industry, construction of 

machinery and hydraulics. 

info.za@ifm.com 

Tel | 0861 00 2887 

Email | fax@atts.co.za

Anzeige_deTec4_Prime_A4_en_20150915.indd 1 30.10.15 12:59 

8 

New solution offers real-time interface to batch control for 

mobile-enabled workforce 

Global producers that expect 

a modern batch experience 

can now improve employee 

collaboration and system 

interactions that have traditionally 

been difficult to achieve. 

The new FactoryTalk Batch 

View software addresses this 

demand, offering an intuitive and 

scalable, browser-based interface 

that adapts across smartphones, 

such as iOS and Android, to tablets 

and PCs. 

Users can access real-time 

information and interact with 

their process from the plant floor 

to the production office through a 

consistent user interface. 

In today’s environment, most 

production facilities have a lean 

workforce. 

The new software frees your 

staff from their desktop or fixed 

workstation enabling them to 

visualise and respond to their 

process from anywhere on their 

production network. 

This is a significant change 

from the conventional, costly and 

time-consuming approaches that 

enable desktop or mobile access to 

production data. 

User-specific configurations or 

remote desktop sessions managed 

by IT staff are no longer required, 

enabling plants to quickly onboard 

more users and deliver value 

that increases productivity. 

Key capabilities of the solution 

include: 

Simple architecture – A 

modern web interface offers easy 

adaptation to new or existing 

platforms and environments 

with backward compatibility to 

previous versions of FactoryTalk 

Batch software; single-server 

architecture allows for new 

features and functions to be 

added with minimal impact to 

operations. 

Information-enabled and 

secure – Uses common system 

security policies for access control 

similar to any workstation, as a 

node on the plant network. 

Versatile – Interfaces support 


multiple mobile devices and are 

easily integrated with HMI screens 

onto workstations. 

FactoryTalk Batch View 

software is well-suited for large 

industrial facilities that have 

workstation infrastructure 

limitations, and require multiple 

access points across the plant. 

With personalised user profiles 

that are tailored to the user, such 

as language switching options, 

workers at different levels of the 

organisation can stay mobile, 

yet connected to their process 

operations. 

cbuys@ra.rockwell.com 

Compact, space saving safety light curtains 

deTec4 Prime: WE TAKE SAFETY TO THE NEXT LEVEL. 

The introduction of the deTec4 

As the inventors of the original safety light curtain, we have accumulated over half a century‘s worth of experience 

and expertise in all things safety. And what do we do with that experience? We continue to innovate – so 

our customers can take it to the next level. We used our expertise to create the deTec4 Prime: Versatile thanks 

Core to its fl exible and connection concept. deTec2 Freely positionable with optimal Core resistance to interference. safety 

Extremely easy 

to use with a visualized display. And a minimum of connection work when cascaded systems are needed. 

It’s a masterpiece based on the original. We think that’s intelligent. www.sick.com/deTec4 

light curtains made protecting 

hazardous points and access 

points easier than ever. Now, the 

newest member of the family, 

the deTec4 Prime, is taking this 

technology one step further. 

The new deTec4 Prime safety 

light curtain builds upon the 

successful concept of the deTec4 

Core. At the same time, it combines 

the features of existing light 

curtain variants in one device and 

adds even newer functionalities. 

All of this in the compact, spacesaving 

design of the Core version. 

Thanks to a brilliantly simple 

cloning plug design, the basic 

variants can be configured to suit 

the application requirements in 

no time at all using four variably 

interchangeable plugs. Inserting 

the plug is all it takes: The deTec4 

Prime then switches to detection 

mode and the operator confirms 

the change, establishing the 

configuration. 

The deTec4 safety light curtains 

are electro-sensitive protective 

devices that comply with 

performance level “e” in accordance 

with EN ISO 13849, and SIL3 in 

accordance with IEC 61508. 

With 150-millimeter divisions, 

the deTec safety light curtains offer 

13 different protective field heights 

from 300 to 2100 mm. 

All the variants in the deTec 

product family are available with 

14 mm and 30 mm resolution; 

safety light curtains with 14 mm 

resolution are used in every 

application that requires a reliable 

means of keeping fingers away 

from the system. 

Metal and plastic components 

are combined in the impact 

resistant housing so that deTec 

safety light curtains stand up to 

the hardest requirements with no 

problem. 

Thanks to their advanced shock 

resistance and their extremely 

rugged front windows, reliable 

functions are assured even under 

extreme conditions. 

Heat, cold, and humidity are 

no match for deTec safety light 

curtains: 

They meet the requirements 

of enclosure ratings IP 65 and IP 

67, are approved for an operating 

temperature range of -30 °C to +55 

°C – and are even able to ensure that 

processes take place efficiently 

and safely when temperatures are 

in the freezing range. 

The new deTec4 Prime: advanced 

functionality based on 

an original design 

The deTec product family 

offers the right solution for every 

application. The deTec4 stands 

out as an all-around talent. Due to 

its flexible connection concept, 

it covers almost all standard 

applications. 

Perhaps best described as a 

form of standardized intelligence, 

its flexible M12 connectivity 

enables the deTec4 Prime to 

provide the right solution every 

time in a whole host of applications. 

This keeps down the number of 

variants available to a considerable 

degree and saves costs. 

Making diverse requirements 

manageable 

Through its modular concept, 

the deTec4 Prime has managed 

to pack a whole range of different 

device types into just 26 variants 

and provide the customer with 

functional options. 

This means that plant 

manufacturers or operators 

can keep the basic length and 

resolution variants that are relevant 

to their plant concepts in stock, 

and have a flexible way of simply 

bolting on additional functions 

using four different system plugs, 

as and when required. Building 

blocks for grown-ups: Functions 

provided via four system plugs 

Restart interlock, external 

device monitoring, and a binary 

status output are the optional 

functions available for the deTec4 

Prime safety light curtain. 

The 8-pin system plug variant 

is able to cover all three functions 

without the need for additional 

wiring – and it is even possible to 

create cascaded systems with very 

few connection requirements. 

Up to three protective fields 

may be positioned adjacent 

to one another without blind 

zones, providing a simple way of 

establishing presence detection. 

Four system plugs are available 

for the configuration of desired

9 


required functions. Configuration 

is done without software. This 

simplifies storage and reduces 

costs. 

The integrated beam coding 

prevents any interference from 

other safety light curtains in the 

immediate vicinity, with the coding 

set using a DIP switch on the plug – 

no tools are necessary. 

Fast commissioning via integrated 

visual laser and alignment 

display 

All deTec4 safety light curtains 

save commissioning time and 

costs thanks to their integrated 

LEDs and diagnostic functions. 

The exact adaptation of the range 

during commissioning is done 

automatically by the de-Tec4 

itself – the integrated alignment 

display guarantees faster and more 

reliable positioning of the sender 

and receiver using 4 LEDs, as well as 

automatic calibration of the range 

up to 21 m at 30 mm resolution. 

The sender and receiver can be 

configured from one side. 

On both sides, the colours of the 

monitoring and diagnostic LEDs 

– red, yellow, and green – indicate 

the status of the device. Four blue 

LEDs on the receiver, meanwhile, 

provide clear information about 

the signal strength. 

Flexible plant integration without 

blind zones 

Thanks to the innovative FlexFix 

mounting bracket, it is possible 

to mount all deTec safety light 

curtains on a variety of machine 

types in a matter of minutes. The 

mounted light curtain can be 

rotated before it is finally secured 

in the FlexFix mounting bracket, 

and thus ensures a continuous 

protective field up to the ends of the 

housing. 

Maximum performance thanks 

to extensive sensing range 

At 21 m, the deTec4 Prime 

demonstrates more than twice 

the sensing range of the rest of the 

product family. With a resolution 

of 30 mm, this therefore provides 

reliable protection for even 

exceptionally wide machines. 

And thanks to the integrated 

laser alignment aid, adjusting the 

system takes no time. 

Using deflection mirrors with 

these safety light curtains are also 

extremely straightforward. 

Simply more 

Users have already been 

pleased with the consistently 

well-designed accessories that 

are available for the entire deTec 

family – ranging from mounting 

brackets and cables to local reset 

switches, mirror columns, and 

protective field extensions, all the 

way through to a replacement 

adapter for upgrades involving 

a deTec light curtain without 

rewiring. 

Forward thinking in safety 

Whether in the automotive, 

parts supplier, packaging 

industries or in machine building 

and plant construction, the 

sustainability of functional 

safety technology is shown 

in two important points: fast 

commissioning and significantly 

faster system effectiveness thanks 

to flexible design options and 

continuous production, and thus 

higher system efficiency. 

The concept of the new deTec4 

Prime safety light curtain opens 

up a more complex range of 

possibilities while making them 

much easier to handle. 

Over a half-century of 

accumulated experience and 

expertise in regards to safety 

has led to the creation of the 

deTec4 Prime and with it the new 

benchmark for versatility and 

operating comfort. 

stephen.eltze@ 

sickautomation.co.za

10 

Programmable time switch technology for temperature 

control 

This new generation of 

programmable time switch 

technology encompasses 

AlphaRex³ and MicroRex time 

switches for precise temperature 

control in domestic, commercial 

and industrial environments. 

Rex time switches, with 

analogue and digital dials, are 

ideally suited for OEM’s and panel 

builders who can pre-programme 

the time switch during installation. 

At a later stage when the panel or 

product is connected to power, 

all the end-user has to do is set the 

real time. These programmable 

time switches ensure high clock 

precision, optimum reliability, 

maximum safety and enhanced 

aesthetics. 

In temperature control 

applications, these devices are 

used to switch an electric circuit 

on or off at selected times during 

a pre-programmed time period. 

These time switches also have an 

automatic return facility and a 

permanent forced switching on or 

off override control. 

Typical applications for time 

switches in heating and cooling 

installations include water heaters, 

air conditioners, heating and 

ventilation systems and swimming 

pool heaters. 

AlphaRex³ programmable 

time switches have a userfriendly 

standardised text guided 

programming facility, with a high 

resolution digital display and 

backlight. There is a standard, 

single data key for all devices in 

this range to allow quick and easy 

transfer of programmes to other 

time switches and for creating back 

up copies. 

These time switches are 

available with standard and 

multiple functions, with a daily or 

weekly programme facility and a 

clock working reserve of six years. 

Programming with clock 

precision to the second is 

controlled directly on the time 

switch, or outside the distribution 

board using a PC and Legrand’s 

AlphaSoft programming software. 

Other features include an EEPROM 

memory which prevents settings 

being lost and the facility to 

programme the clock prior to 

despatch. Once the unit has been 

programmed, the information will 

remain installed even if the switch 

is not connected to power. The 

battery can be removed without 

having to uninstall the time switch 

from the distribution board. 

MicroRex time switches offer 

easy plug and play installation for 

daily and weekly programming. 

By simply setting the analogue 

switching dial during start up, the 

time is automatically set using 

the fast-run mode. In the event 

of a power failure, the time is 

automatically reset. 

MicroRex analogue and 

digital modules are 24 hour and 

seven day time switches for DIN 

rail and wall mounting, with a 100 

hour running reserve. These units 

have the capability for multiple 

programmes, which ensures 

optimum time setting flexibility. 

MicroRex time switches have an 

LED status indicator, a precision 

clockwork of 0.2 s/day and are 

controlled by either a quartz or 

synchronous motor. For increased 

safety and user convenience, there 

is an automatic and manual and 

advance/over-ride facility. 

An analogue defrost switch 

is available for short periods of 

controlled defrosting. The timer 


can repeat one or two settable 

short programmes within 24 hours 

and the defrosting time is from one 

to 60 minutes per contact. 

Other time switches in the 

Legrand range are designed 

for precise control in security 

installations – for access points; 

electric fences and alarms – 

as well as for use in industrial 

installations, including pump 

stations, filters and conveyors. 

Legrand time switches are also 

used for the lighting of commercial 

boards and signage, as well as for 

street lighting. Time switches in 

agricultural applications are used 

for irrigation and sprinkler systems 

and for cyclical programmes, like 

animal feed systems. 

legrand.south-africa@ 

legrand.co.za 

VA purgemeters with surface passivation for trace-level 

analysis 

The option of surface 

passivation for trace-level 

analysis is now offered for the For 

its variable area flow meters DK 

32, DK 34 and DK 37. 

Trace-level analysis is used for 

providing evidence of very small 

concentrations in the range of ppm 

(parts per million) to ppb (parts per 

billion). 

Here, it is very important that 

none of the particles to be detected 

are already adsorbed in the sample 

feed line as this would lead to a 

delayed or even wrong analysis 

result. 

Examples are the 

measurement of H2S content in 

natural gas or oil, mercury, or NOx/ 

SOx flue gas analysis in various 

industries. 

To avoid adsorption, sample 

feed lines, fittings and valves can be 

surface passivated. 

This can now also be applied 

to the DK 32, DK 34 and DK 37 allmetal 

purgemeters that are used 

for adjustment and monitoring of 

the sample flow to the analyser. 

Before being assembled and 

calibrated, all metal components 

in contact with the medium such 

as cone, float, valve components, 

etc., receive a SilcoNert 2000 inert 

silicon coating, a patented surface 

treatment at a temperature of 

400°C / 752°F. 

The same is possible for wetted 

metal components of DK 46, DK 47, 

DK 48 and DK 800 glass devices. 

salesza@krohne.com

11 

New powerful switched-mode power supply with an 

enormous power reserve 

These power supplies provide 

an excellent power reserve of 

50 percent for up to four seconds 

to cope with short current loads. 

Instead of an inrush current 

limitation with a simple NTC 

element, charging the capacitors 

of the new switched-mode power 

supplies is micro-processor 

controlled. This ensures an ideal 

start-up of the voltage supply. 

The voltage supply is ensured 

for several milliseconds if the mains 

voltage briefly fails, e.g. caused by 

switching operations in the supply 

network. 

These switched-mode power 

supplies provide the specific 

nominal power across the entire 

temperature range. Derating only 

has to be taken into account above 

an operating temperature of 60 °C. 


All 24 V switched-mode 

power supplies are equipped with 

double terminals. This simplifies 

wiring and provides more clarity 

in the control cabinet. Innovative 

technology means the new power 

supplies require considerably less 

space in the panel, as compared to 

common cabinet power supplies. 

info.za@ifm.com 

Space-saving 

wiring up to 

10 mm² 

Wire conductors up to 10 mm² 

in a confined space with the 

new UT 6-3L three-level terminal 

block. 

Thanks to the function shaft on 

each level, up to three potentials 

can be distributed in one terminal 

housing. 

The conductors are connected 

using the maintenance-free screw 

connection principle. All terminal 

points can be marked individually, 

thereby ensuring very clear 

arrangement of the wired terminal 

strip. 

Power ratings of up to 1000 V 

and 50 A can be wired with the new 

three-level terminal block. 

Since this terminal block 

also has all the system features of 

the CLIPLINE complete terminal 

block system, standard system 

accessories can be used. This 

reduces the logistics costs for the 

user. 

brucep@phoenixcontact.co.za

12 


Pneumatic energy saving solutions suitable for all factory 

environments 

The 3-port 3-position power 

valve VEX3, used to control 

actuators has been modified, 

allowing for improved cost 

savings and versatility by offering 

greater energy efficiency and 

added handling flexibility thanks 

to the addition of new manual 

override options, which have 

been added to the existing nonlocking 

push type. 

The new 3/3 way VEX3 series 

features additional benefits to the 

existing conventional 2/2 way, 

3/2 way and 5/3 way Power Valves. 

Compared to its predecessor, the 

VEX3 is not only smaller in size, but 

when added to the existing benefit 

of fewer components required per 

circuit, it delivers on space and cost 

savings. 

Achieving a flow rate of up 

to 3300 l/min, the VEX3, with its 

three positions, makes it possible 

to perform intermediate stops of 

cylinders up to 125 mm bore size or 

to change the speed of cylinders up 

to 200 mm bore size. 

What’s more, two valves can 

be connected to a double acting 

cylinder, controlling speeds, 

slow stopping, acceleration and 

deceleration with nine different 

valve position combinations. 

While the functions of the VEX3 

can be performed by an electric 

actuator, this new Power Valve 

offers customers greater force and 

flexibility while being more cost 

efficient to purchase and operate. 

Further savings are achieved in 

vacuum applications when suction 

or release of the workpiece is not 

required, as the power valve can 

be set to the intermediate position 

where there is no air movement 

and energy is not being wasted. 

sales@smcpneumatics.co.za 

World’s smallest absolute multi-turn encoder 

Modern industrial applications 

demand innovative designs 

featuring high performance, 

precise information and smaller 

component footprints. SCANCON 

has developed the world’s 

smallest absolute multi-turn 

encoder with SSI interface. 

Based on new advanced 

electronics and mechanics, 

this high quality, technically 

sophisticated encoder was 

developed by Scancon’s 

engineering team and represents 

the first step into a new world of 

automation possibilities. 

Scancon designed this 

encoder to provide a compact, high 

performance solution for motion 

control applications where space 

is critical and features a 24mm 

diameter size with multi-turn SSI 

capability. No other encoder on the 

market offers this solution. 

Encoder Model 2RMHF – SSI 

absolute multi-turn features: 

• Ø24mm footprint 

• SSI interface 

• Multi- or single-turn 

• Hollow blind end or shaft 

Ø3mm to Ø6.35mm 

• Preset of ZERO position 

• Choice of counting direction 

• Enclosure rating IP64 to IP67 

• Cable or Connector version 

Potential applications 

include automated machinery, 

pitch and yaw control, small AC 

motor feedback, wind turbines, 

packaging machines, robotics, 

ROVs and AGVs, solar trackers and 

automated doors. 

sales@instrotech.co.za 

Lid integrity inspection with 3D vision sensor 

When it comes to metal 

closures in packaging, 

nothing can be left to chance: 

In products such as jam jars, 

the consumer goods industry 

requires seals to be tight and jars 

to be hermetically sealed. 

Anyone who makes their 

own jam will know that a small 

indentation in the lid is the key 

to creating the perfect vacuum. 

However, this small feature is 

difficult to identify by eye in 

industrial production contexts 

involving high numbers of parts 

and high speeds. 

Fynbo Foods A/S, a leading 

Danish manufacturer of jams, 

preserves, and fruit spreads, uses 

the TriSpector1000 3D vision 

sensor on its Vraa production lines 

to check the integrity of seals. As a 

manufacturer for the organic and 

fair markets, Fynbo Foods stands 

for healthy, sustainable products 

that conform to high standards of 

quality. 

That was why the company 

needed to find a reliable inspection 

solution for quality inspections on 

its sealed jars. Once the jam has 

been successfully pasteurized, 

the lid has a small indentation as a 

result of the vacuum created in the 

process. 

If pasteurization goes wrong, 

on the other hand, the lid will have 

a slight bulge. Only tight lids can 

prevent pressure compensation 

from taking place. 

The TriSpector’s role is to 

identify any minor deviations in the 

lid surface. 

The TriSpector1000 inspects 

two jars each second; faulty goods 

are then ejected from the process. 

“We tested out a range of other 

solutions. 

The TriSpector is the only one 

that is able to do the job perfectly. 

What’s more, it’s easy to use – when 

I installed additional devices, I 

was able to simply copy across the 

configuration,” explains Jesper Juul 

Nielsen, an electrician at Fynbo 

Foods. 

duncan.venter@ 

sickautomation.co.za

13 


Stable system function for demanding tasks 

Stable system function and 

reduced downtime are only two 

of the advantages that the new 

generation Leuze SR 46 Series 

photoelectric sensors offer. 

Stable system function and 

reduced downtime are only 

two of the advantages that the 

new generation Leuze SR 46 Series 

photoelectric sensors and light 

scanners offer users. Leveraging 

The Leuze SR 46C Series sensor is 

ideal for use on special purpose 

manufacturing and processing 

machinery and on conveyor 

systems across a wide range of 

industries. 

latest technology ensures an 

increased function reserve by 

up to 80% over the predecessor 

models for these photoelectric 

sensors and light scanners. This 

significantly enhances reliable 

performance and reduces 

unplanned downtime, thereby 

enhancing productivity. 

The increase in function 

reserve also optimises ambient 

light suppression and automatic 

sensitivity re-adjustment in 

applications where soiling or 

reflections are prevalent. 

The Leuze SR 46C Series sensor 

is ideal for use on special purpose 

manufacturing and processing 

machinery and on conveyor 

systems across a wide range of 

industries. 

Capable of reliable operation 

in temperature ranges from minus 

40°C to plus 60°C, these sensors 

offer a high degree of protection to 

both IP 67 and IP 69K facilitating use 

in harsh environmental conditions. 

Other integral features 

include the well-proven Leuze 

teach button for simple and fast 

configuration, a potentiometer 

allowing a large adjustment 

range, a highly visible light spot, 

an improved status LED and an 

additional display behind the 

front screen with a Leuze L 46C 

throughbeam photoelectric 

sensor. 

This series of quality sensing 

equipment includes the Leuze L 

46C throughbeam photoelectric 

sensor which enables maximum 

functional reliability even at large 

operating ranges of up to 150 

metres and the Leuze SLS 46C (type 

2, type 4) single beam safety device 

which is suitable for efficient 

machine safeguarding. 

The Leuze PRK 46C 

photoelectric sensor is ideal for 

small reflectors, heavily soiled or 

foil-wrapped objects, while the 

Leuze RK 46C VarOS retro-reflective 

photoelectric sensor offers reliable 

detection thanks to the light band 

optics. Detection of dark and 

glossy objects is a simple task with 

the Leuze HT 46C reflection light 

scanner. 


TRIPLE ECCENTRIC 

ROTARY PROCESS VALVES 

ZWICK TRI-CON 

Zwick Tri-Con valves are 

successfully used for isolation, on/off, 

control and ESD applications for industrial 

and exhaust gases, hydrocarbons, chemicals, 

liquids and steam with process temperatures up to 

815C. The Tri-Con valve is used extensively on the 

oil & gas, chemical, petro-chemical and power generation 

industries. 

Zwick Tri-Con provides: 

• SIL 3 certification 

• Size from 2” (50mm) to 88” (2250mm) 

• Bi-directional operation 

• Zero leakage sealing 

• Non-rubbing - Self-centering disc 

• Metal-to-metal seats 

• Fire-safe certified sealing 

VEREENIGING 

Tel: +27 (0)11 397 2833 

Fax: +27 (0)11 397 4700 

DURBAN 

Tel: +27 (0)31 579 2593 

Fax: +27 (0)31 579 2562 

E-mail: sales@valve.co.za 

Exports: africaexports@valve.co.za

14 


Reduce downtime – find leakage currents without taking 

equipment offline 

Fluke has launched the Fluke 

368 & 369 true-RMS leakage 

current clamp meters that help 

users detect, document, record 

and compare leakage current 

Power hub revamped 

readings over time as a means of 

preventing unplanned downtime, 

and identifying intermittent GFCI 

(Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) 

and RCD (Residual Current 

Device) trips, all without taking 

equipment off line. 

The Fluke 368 has a large 

(40mm diameter) jaw for work 

with large conductors. The clamp’s 

jaw is fully shielded to accurately 

capture very small leakage 

signals, and to minimize external 

electromagnetic interference. 

The device allows users to track 

changes in leakage current over 

time, helping to identify potential 

problems before they turn into 

major failures. 

Product features: 

• True-RMS measurements 

for accuracy when measuring 

complex, non-sinusoidal 

waveforms 

• 40 mm jaw opening 

• Highest resolution of 1 μA, 

measure up to 60 A 

• Selectable filter function 

removes unwanted noise 

• Max/Min/Average readings 

and hold function 

• Forward-facing LED worklight 

for use in dark wiring cabinets 

• Backlit display; auto backlight 

off and auto power off for 

extended battery life 

• CAT III 600V safety rating 

• Internal Memory Logging: up 

to 65,000 measurement points 

Designed specifically for 

industrial electricians and facilities 

maintenance technicians, the 368 

& 369 are invaluable for general 

purpose electrical maintenance, 

as well as preventative and 

predictive 

maintenance 

and fault troubleshooting. 

Specific applications include 

maintenance tests on motors and 

transformers and current leakage 

measurements for installation 

tests. 

sales@comtest.co.za 

Segment Coupler 3 with PROFINET 

gateway and advanced diagnostics. 

Gateway can be configured via 

web interface or FDT/DTM frame 

No sooner has digital 

communication arrived in 

the process industry than the 

next technological revolution is 

around the corner. PROFIBUS DP 

is now regarded as an established 

standard that is tried and tested 

and has become commonplace 

in many process plants. 

PROFINET goes one crucial step 

beyond. 

This is not a complete 

reinvention of the wheel, nor is it a 

revolution that brings everything 

that has gone before into question. 

In fact, PROFINET uses the same 

tried-and-tested technologies that 

proved themselves with PROFIBUS 

DP. Evolution would therefore be 

a more appropriate term for this 

than revolution. Similarly, plant 

operators are presented with 

good opportunities to gradually 

move into the future and to rely 

on future-proof infrastructure 

components for modernizations 

and new installations with the 

PROFINET gateway. 

PROFINET is basically an 

industrial Ethernet variant that 

has been specifically expanded 

to include the PROFIBUS DP 

functionality and has already 

become extremely well 

established in factory automation. 

This allows communication at 

the control level to be integrated 

seamlessly into the rest of 

the company's IT landscape. 

Communication with PROFIBUS PA 

at the field level is implemented via 

PROFINET gateways. 

The specially defined proxy 

technology enables simple 

and practical integration of bus 

systems established in process 

automation such as PROFIBUS PA. 

From Big Data to the Internet 

of Things 

There is another reason why 

PROFINET is the way to the future. 

In a process plant, intelligent field 

devices generate large volumes of 

data. However, a large part of this 

data is currently still untapped. This 

data can easily be converted into 

concretely useful information via 

big data solutions. The information 

is then available anywhere via 

Ethernet-based systems, opening 

up a wealth of new applications 

that are only just beginning to 

emerge. The strict separation 

between the IT environment 

and industrial automation has 

made consistent use of this data 

considerably more difficult, since 

the transparency of the process 

plant does not go beyond the 

control center. PROFINET is the key 

to eliminating such limitations. 

Significantly Reduced Complexity 

A consistently homogeneous 

system is of course much less 

complex than a heterogeneous 

environment consisting of 

specialized system landscapes. 

PROFINET is ideal for eliminating 

the previously strict separation 

between the automation 

environment and IT. The field level 

still communicates according 

to the proven protocols, 

standards, and technologies, 

while gateways create the direct 

connection to an industrial 

Ethernet-based control level. The 

manufacturers of infrastructure 

components have recognized 

this development trend and are 

increasingly starting to prepare 

their solutions for the PROFINET 

environment. Pepperl+Fuchs is 

one of the pioneers of innovative 

technologies for hazardous areas. 

Power Hub with PROFINET 

Gateway 

The Power Hub concept is one 

of their core technologies. The 

company has now thoroughly 

overhauled this concept and put 

the entire product family on a 

new foundation. The keywords 

here are: extremely compact 

design, different redundancy 

concepts, and, for the first time, 

a PROFINET gateway. The fact 

that line redundancy and the S2 

system redundancy of PROFINET 

are supported is particularly 

interesting. 

The latter is based on the 

principle that a gateway is 

connected to two separate masters 

via separate communication 

paths. The result is a highavailability 

system without the 

need for additional hardware. If 

one communication path fails 

due to a cable break, the second 

path is automatically used and 

communication is maintained. 

PROFINET also offers system 

redundancy for high-availability 

communication with up to four 

communication paths. As soon as 

control systems are available that 

allow R2 system redundancy, this 

solution will also be offered.

15 


Transparent Communication in 

a Compact Format 

It is always crowded in 

the switch cabinet. The latest 

generation of the Power Hub 

solution further reduces the form 

factor of its components. For 

example, the previous Segment 

Couplers 2 and 3 have been 

replaced with a new model. 

This requires less space while 

offering significantly enhanced 

functionality. The new basic 

Segment Coupler replaces the 

previous Segment Coupler 1. It 

is only 20 mm wide and thus four 

times smaller than the previous 

solution. 

Pepperl+Fuchs therefore now 

currently offers the most compact 

fieldbus power supply on the 

market, and with unprecedented 

energy efficiency. Up to four 

fieldbus segments can be 

connected. 

This reduces the number 

of switch cabinets. Because 

of the low power dissipation, 

active air conditioning is not 

required, further improving the 

energy performance and system 

availability as a whole. The fieldbus 

segments also require significantly 

less engineering and installation 

work. 

Remote Configuration and 

Explosion Safety 

The new Power Hub 

allows remote configuration 

and diagnostics via a device 

type manager or web server. 

Configuration tools for integration 

into virtually any automation 

Windows 10 for panel PCs 

The Embeddedline family of 

panel PCs is now equipped 

with the modern Windows 10 

Enterprise operating system. 

Windows Embedded Standard 

7 is available as an alternative. If 

applications are not approved 

for this operating system, the 

Windows 7 Professional standard 

operating system can be used. 

Phoenix Contact is also 

adding further functions to the 

system are also available. 

The advanced diagnostic 

module enables the Power Hub to 

be incorporated into the ongoing 

monitoring of the physical fieldbus 

level. Of particular interest for the 

chemical industry is the option 

of an intrinsically safe power 

supply for Zone 0 – 2 (Division 1/2) 

hazardous areas and field devices 

according to the Ex ia, Ex ib, and Ex 

ic types of protection. 

In conjunction with the 

high-power trunk concept, the 

Power Hub allows an intrinsically 

safe power supply to the 

instrumentation according to IEC 

60079-11—and for a large number 

of end devices, even if they are 

connected via long cable runs. 

The DART technology is 

available as an alternative. This 

effectively prevents ignitable 

sparks in hazardous areas. Due to 

the high active power available, 

DART provides the intrinsically 

safe high-power trunk, the ideal 

combination of achievable cable 

length, multiple devices, and 

safety. 

PROFINET ensures that 

technical development never 

stops. It does not take much 

imagination to envision a possible 

scenario in the near future: a field 

level networked using PROFIBUS 

PA that communicates with the 

Ethernet-based PROFINET control 

level via gateways. 

mmiszczyk@ 

za.pepperl-fuchs.com 

panel PCs with analog resistive 

touch display: a new Intel Atom 

E3845 Quad Core processor is now 

available as a high-performance 

CPU for entry-level applications. A 

robust 2.5” SSD with 240 GB offers 

plenty of space for demanding 

applications. 

Furthermore, two additional 

electrically isolated CAN 

interfaces are available as an 

option. 

Where space is limited, the 

Embeddedline PC portfolio now 

offers the ideal solution in the 

form of a particularly compact 

device with 5.7” display. 

patrickr@phoenixcontact.co.za 

°C 

°Brix 

kg/m3 

t/h 

fact 

Continuous flow 

measurement with air 

and gas entrainments 

in the medium 

OPTIMASS series – 

technology driven by KROHNE 

• Coriolis mass flowmeters with 

Entrained Gas Management (EGM TM ): 

no loss of measurement with gas 

entrainment up to 100 % 

• DN15...400, 0.003...4,600 t/h, 

process: –200...+400 °C 

• In stainless steel, tantalum, 

titanium or Hastelloy R 

• Highest accuracy for custody 

transfer: MID 2014/32/EU, OIML 

KROHNE South Africa 

8 Bushbuck Close, Corporate Park South 

Randjiespark, Midrand, Tel.: +27 113141391 

Fax: +27 113141681, John Alexander, 

j.alexander@krohne.com, www.za.krohne.com 

kg/h

16 


The Internet of Things is more than a vision 

After automating its processes, 

the Swiss chemical distributor 

Brenntag Schweizerhall has found 

an entirely new business model. 

Basel (Switzerland) is a 

stronghold of the chemical 

industry. This explains why the 

demand for primaries and base 

materials such as sulfuric acid, 

hydrochloric acid and caustic 

soda is so great in that region. 

One important supplier of these 

products is Brenntag Schweizerhall 

AG, whose warehouse and 

distribution centre in the ‘Infrapark 

Baselland’ is in the immediate 

neighbourhood of its customers. 

The company asked 

Endress+Hauser to automate its 

plant and at the same time ordered 

a logistics concept guaranteeing 

ultimate safety and efficiency from 

storage right through processing 

to the delivery of products. Today, 

the site features a totally new 

infrastructure with storage tanks 

and blending units, plus a pipeline 

network which allows Brenntag 

Schweizerhall to supply its 

customers directly. “Until recently, 

we carried about 30,000 tonnes of 

hazardous materials by truck to our 

customers every year. 

This resulted in relatively high 

transportation costs,” explains 

Wolfram Heymann, CEO of 

Brenntag Schweizerhall. “Our 

aim was to optimise the supply 

chain, not only commercially, 

but also with regards to safety on 

site because the corresponding 

loading and unloading operations 

were no longer required.” 

For this reason, it was not 

only the automation of the 

manufacturing process that 

was highlighted. The logistics 

and commercial processes were 

also scrutinised. Working closely 

with Brenntag Schweizerhall, 

Endress+Hauser synchronised the 

data flow along the value-added 

chain and the data exchange 

between the actual process 

control system and the customer’s 

ERP system. Today, the central 

business processes between all 

stakeholders can be handled in a 

common network. 

“The cross-system access to 

information enhanced efficiency 

and effectiveness helping us to 

make severe cutbacks on data 

administration costs,” says Roger 

Jaggi, Head of Engineering 

Solutions at Endress+Hauser 

Switzerland. “At the same time, we 

wanted to keep plant operation 

as simple and easy as possible.” 

The controls were programmed 

and set up for the customer 

using tried and tested standard 

components. Personnel operate 

the plant via software that 

provides graphic visualisation 

of the process. One important 

interface is Endress+Hauser’s 

software, SupplyCare: the platform 

for inventory management 

relies on the appropriate sensor 

technology in the tanks to monitor 

replenishment and deadline 

scheduling, also allowing the 

full visualisation of stocks and 

inventories on the screen – both on 

site at the operating stations and at 

the headquarters in Basel. Thanks 

to the networked supply chain, 

Brenntag Schweizerhall can now 

keep stocks low and avoid delivery 

bottlenecks. 

Using the fast links of the local 

fibre optic network, end customers 

today report their requirements 

directly to the control system 

– without the red tape in order 

handling, and with the automated 

inventory management ensuring 

that the tanks and warehouses are 

always sufficiently full. “No matter 

how much the customer requests – 

thanks to automation, the product 

can now be supplied efficiently, 

safely and on time in the desired 

quantity and degree of dilution,” 

says Roger Jaggi. 

The direct access to device 

and process data using a browserbased 

solution also makes 

maintenance and service work 

easier, with the latest device 

status called up in next to no time. 

Endress+Hauser’s experts are 

capable of remote monitoring 

maintenance intervals or of 

responding to error messages 

while en route. 

Thanks to the online access 

to all data and documents, the 

source of the error or malfunction 

is quickly identified. The customer 

is automatically notified in the 

event of maintenance work or a 

change in product availability. 

The close collaboration between 

Endress+Hauser and Brenntag 

Schweizerhall from the planning 

stage to commissioning, pays 

dividends. “Procurement is a great 

deal easier today. 

We’ve optimised warehouse 

capacities, increased flexibility 

in production and cut logistics 

costs,” summarises Wolfram 

Heymann. “Now we not only 

have an automated warehouse 

for chemical base materials, we 

also have a totally new business 

model where all our customers 

and suppliers are integrated in a 

common network.” 

The modern plant not only 

safeguards efficient and timely 

deliveries to end customers – it 

has also become safer thanks to 

the pipeline system. CEO Wolfram 

Heymann: “The integrated 

solution has allowed us 1,500 

hazardous goods transports off the 

road – and to eliminate all related 

loading and unloading processes.” 

Market leader 

Brenntag Schweizerhall AG is 

the Swiss offspring of the Brenntag 

group of companies, the global 

leader in chemical distribution. 

In 2007 the company evolved 

from the merger of Christ Chemie 

AG, Chem-On Vertriebs AG and 

Schweizerhall Chemie AG and 

employs around 250 staff at four 

sites. Brenntag Schweizerhall 

operates in the market with three 

business divisions: industrial 

chemicals, specialty chemicals 

(nutrition and health) and waste 

disposal. 

Safe processes 

The raw chemicals are supplied 

by pipeline, rail or truck and 

stored. Flowmeters (A) measure 

the quantities. Endress+Hauser 

instruments 

continually 

monitor levels in all tanks (B) and 

temperature sensors and overfill 

prevention systems provide safety. 

The mixing process in the blender 

(C) is automated. 

Flow and temperature 

measurements provide the basics 

and density and conductivity 

parameters increase process 

safety. Customers in the 

neighbourhood are supplied via 

pipelines, with trucks used when 

needed. Flowmeters (D) measure 

the quantities handled. 

hennie.blignaut@ 

za.endress.com 

SOLIFLO (PTY) LTD 

HONEYWELL 

A.T. TECHNICAL SERVICES & SUPPLIES 

TEMP-TEK (PTY) LTD 

Online Valve 

Testing Systems 

011 792 2196 

sales@soli o.co.za 

011 695 8000 

www.honeywellprocess.com 

012 345 1005 

admin@atts.co.za 

011 465 8066 

sales@temptek.co.za

17 


Load sensing valve 

The SALAMI VDP08 load sensing 

valve is ideal for a wide range 

of applications, mainly in the 

mobile field, where independent 

flow control of actuators is 

needed without being affected 

by load variations, and offers 

good metering characteristics 

that provide increased energy 

saving. 

With the high-quality features 

SALAMI products is renowned 

for, the valve offers a more costeffective 

solution than competitor 

products, and is easily retrofitted 

without having to change 

mounting specifications. 

The valve can be used in 

applications up to 130 l/min, and a 

maximum working pressure of 350 

bar. 

This sectional directional 

control valve type has become 

Easy lifting products 

popular in the industry, owing 

to the simplicity of the design, 

high tolerance and ability to 

function under extreme operating 

conditions and its excellent 

controllability. 

In addition, the many control 

positioning options available to 

the operator eliminates the need 

to add auxiliary components and 

additional pipe connections. 

Other benefits of the valve 

include its modular design. 

In the case of a malfunctioning 

valve section, the design feature 

means that only the faulty section 

needs to be replaced, and this can 

be done on site without having to 

remove the entire valve. 

This also means a much more 

versatile solution that allows users 

to expand the valve configuration, 

should the need for more machine 

functions arise. 

The VDP08 load sensing valve 

can be ordered for use with both 

variable and fixed displacement 

pump applications. 

wynand.kellerman@haw.co.za 

Effective Liquid Analysis 

Memosens for 

high-performance 

analytics 

Experience unknown userfriendliness, 

cost control and 

safety in Liquid Analysis with the 

non-contact, digital and intelligent 

Memosens technology. 

These products are 

ergonomically designed to 

reduce the strain on backs, knees 

and shoulders and at the same 

time create a more safe and 

effective environment for the 

handling of goods. 

All TAWI products are 

developed and manufactured in 

Kungsbacka, Sweden. 

The VacuEasyLift makes light 

work of lifting boxes, drums and 

barrels, rolls of paper, rolls of 

aluminum, non porous paper and 

plastic bags of raw materials and 

finished goods. 

There are also units lifting bales 

of rubber, fuel tanks & crates. 

The TAWI VacuEasyLift vacuum 

lifting units will reduce work 

place injuries and increase staff 

productivity. 

burnm@vactech.co.za 

Endress+Hauser (Pty) Ltd 

Phone +27 11 262 8000 

Fax +27 11 262 8062 

info@za.endress.com 

www.za.endress.com 

Memosens is easy 

Simply connect the sensors via 

plug& play and they deliver reliable 

values immediately. Calibrate the 

sensors in the lab and exchange 

them on site in no time. Save time 

and money every day. 

Memosens increases plant safety 

The non-contact plug-in head 

eliminates all problems due to 

moisture. Digital transmission 

actively displays a lost connection 

and enables you to react immediately. 

www.products.endress.com/memosens

18 


Inline analyser system for edible oil and fat processing 

Introducing the OPTIQUAD-EOF 

4050 W for the continuous inline 

measurement of free fatty acids 

(FFA), total polar material (TPM), 

peroxide value (POV), moisture 

or dirt. 

The optical spectroscopic 

analyser system is aimed at frying 

and other edible oil as well as fat 

applications. 

OPTIQUAD-EOF 4050 W 

measures directly in the pipe: 

analysis is achieved via an optical 

window mounted in a standard 

VARINLINE measuring section. The 

readings of FFA, TPM, POV moisture 

or dirt are provided instantly for 

process control or dynamic control 

loops via four 4...20 mA outputs. 

Depending on the application, 

measurement of anisidine value 

(AV) and iodine value (IV) are 

possible. 

Compared to conventional 

laboratory methods used to obtain 

these values, OPTIQUAD-EOF 4050 

W reduces the need for sampling, 

sample transport and handling, 

and the associated sources of error 

and costs. 

The optical spectroscopy 

analyzing method allows for a 

wide range of use in edible oil 

applications, such as oil extraction, 

oil refinement and frying processes 

up to oil recycling, as well as fat 

processing. 

For example, the continuous 

inline measurement of FFA content 

in frying oil helps to minimize the 

addition of fresh oil: the FFA value 

can be kept below a defined limit 

whilst allowing to maintain a high 

level of quality. 

It also provides a wide 

measuring range, e.g. 0…98% for 

FFA, and an accuracy of RMSEp: 

±0,03% up to ± 1% FFA, depending 

on the measurement range. 

OPTIQUAD-EOF 4050 W 

spectroscopic analysis system 

consists of the analyser unit 

(protection rating IP65/NEMA4X) 

and the operating unit, an 

industrial PC with touch screen 

display for parameterisation and 

automatic calibration in a stainless 

steel housing (IP65/NEMA4X), 

optionally built into a switch 

cabinet. 

It uses up to four measuring 

methods (transmission, scattering, 

fluorescence and refraction) 

with up to 12 wavelengths 

from ultraviolet to infrared. 

The underlying calibration is 

calculated automatically from 

reference data specific to the 

application. OPTIQUAD-EOF 4050 

W is the successor of OPTIQUAD- 

FFA 4050 W. 

salesza@krohne.com 

Predictive maintenance with wireless tools 

It’s the foundation of any 

electrical safety program: 

limiting the exposure of workers 

to the electrical hazards of shock 

and arc flash. 

Using test leads and clamps 

to probe inside a live panel when 

troubleshooting and performing 

routine maintenance always 

exposes workers to danger. 

Electrical personal protective 

equipment (PPE) is a last line of 

defense and must never be relied 

upon as the primary method 

of protecting electricians and 

technicians. 

Safe work practices, including 

the use of non-contact test tools 

that do not require electrical 

workers to place themselves 

in harm’s way, must first be 

considered when it comes to 

electrical safety. 

Fluke Connect®, introduced 

in 2014, added a new level 

of efficiency and effective 

collaboration for maintenance 

and troubleshooting, in all kinds of 

manufacturing, commercial, and 

retail facilities. 

Technicians can monitor real 

time results from more than 20 

different Fluke test tools from a 

smart phone (up to 10 at a time 

on iPhone and 6 on Android). 

This information can also be 

securely shared, in real time, with 

authorized team members in other 

locations. 

In addition, test results and 

maintenance data can be collected 

through the Fluke Connect app 

and stored by asset in secure Fluke 

Cloud storage. That means that 

troubleshooting and maintenance 

staff can access that data in the field 

to compare new measurements 

to baseline measurements to 

more quickly identify problems. 

The end result is that technicians 

can use Fluke Connect to quickly 

identify and diagnose problems 

while securely sharing the related 

data, when they want and with the 

specific people they have given 

permission to view it. 

Fluke’s newly released clamp 

meters - the Fluke 376 FC True 

RMS AC/DC Clamp Meter with 

iFlex and the Fluke 902 FC Truerms 

HVAC Clamp Meter allow the 

technicians to access tight places 

and work around large, awkward 

conductors and can transmit 

measurements to a smartphone 

or tablet for later, detailed analysis. 

Those measurements can be 

uploaded to the cloud. 

Technicians can combine 

measurement data from multiple 

Fluke Connect test tools to create 

and share reports from the job site 

via email and collaborate in real 

time with other colleagues with 

ShareLive video calls or email, 

increasing productivity in the field. 

The 376 and 902 clamp meters 

also decrease the frequency that 

technicians will need to wear 

personal protective equipment 

when working on high voltage/ 

current panels. 

Technicians simply turn off 

the panel, verify the panel is deenergized 

using standard safety 

procedures, place the clamp 

and sync it to a smartphone with 

the Fluke Connect app, close 

the panel, reenergize it, and 

take measurements from a safe 

distance. 

The Fluke 376 FC True-rms AC/ 

DC Clamp Meter with iFlex 

features: 

• Integrated VFD LowPAS filter 

for low driver measurements 

• True RMS voltage and current 

for non-linear signals 

• Measureable to 1000Amps DC 

and > 25 000Amps AC 

• Finds and log intermittent 

faults, and establishes base-line 

and trends 

• Creates and transmits results in 

report-form wirelessly via Fluke 

Connect® Measurements app 

from site 

The Fluke 902 FC True-rms HVAC 

Clamp Meter features: 

• Dual rated - CAT III, 600 /CAT 

IV, 300 V 

• microamps for testing pilot 

light sensors 

• resistance up to 60 kilohms 

• AC current, AC/DC voltage 

• capacitance and contact 

temperature 

sales@comtest.co.za

19 


The world’s toughest liquid analysis systems 

Some liquid analytics are 

conducted in the toughest 

conditions in the world - 

mining, precious metal and ore 

refinement and extreme chemical 

processes, where most sensors 

are unable to provide accuracy or 

longevity. 

Deterioration in the accuracy 

of sensors creates costly wastage 

as process control is affected. 

Additionally, in these extreme 

environments many sensors 

require intensive maintenance 

and frequent calibration, which 

are time consuming and costly 

processes. 

Improved measurement accuracy 

and process control 

Turtle Tough sensors are 

designed to provide accurate 

measurement for significantly 

longer than any other sensor. 

Custom made to provide lower 

rates of expiration, slower accuracy 

degradation and reduced fouling, 

the sensors are reported to provide 

massive savings to customers 

from better accuracy and tighter 

process control. 

Maintenance free 

All Turtle Tough pH, ORP, 

Conductivity and Ion Selective 

measurement sensors have no 

serviceable components. This 

means completely maintenance 

free operation - for the entire life of 

the sensor. 

A truly superior sensor must be 

impervious to ingress. Turtle Tough 

sensors are solid state and totally 

sealed for life. Not only will they 

resist process contamination but 

they are completely maintenance 

free. There is no gel or electrolyte 

to be refilled, no reference to 

replace and no o-rings or seals to be 

compromised or replenished. 

Longest life in the industry 

Turtle Tough sensors 

boast significantly extended 

replacement intervals, reducing 

the time and manpower required 

to replace and install sensors. 

Rather than a one size fits all 

approach, each sensor is optimised 

for its intended process use, with 

various salt mixtures and polymer 

formulations. The proprietary pH 

glass and ORP elements provide 

unmatched performance in harsh 

environments. 

By utilising solid-state 

conductive reference junction 

polymers the manufacturers 

are able to achieve accurate 

measurement while resisting 

process contamination into the 

reference system. 

This ability to maintain high 

ionic conductivity while resisting 

aggressive gas intrusion is what 

makes these sensors outlast 

virtually all competitors in difficult 

process control conditions. 

Intelligently designed for extreme 

applications 

Turtle Tough’s patented 

and advanced technology 

will revolutionise the way you 

experience liquid analysis. 

The entire range of pH, ORP, 

Conductivity, Dissolved Oxygen 

and Ion Specific sensors are 

designed to be physically and 

chemically superior providing long 

life and high performance in the 

world’s toughest environments. 

Sensors have been developed that 

are optimised for high hydrofluoric 

acid, saturated sodium, high 

sulphide, organic solvents, high 

cyanidation, ultrapure water, high 

temperature and slurry/viscous 

applications. 

Turtle Tough analysers 

The TT-MA Analysers have 

been designed specifically to 

interface with the extreme Turtle 

Tough sensors to provide the 

maximum possible service life to 

the sensor. 

The unique modular design 

enables you to create a full 

multi-parameter analyser with 

any combination of different 

analytical modules including 

pH, ORP, Dissolved Oxygen, 

Conductivity and Ion Specific. 

Functional modules can also be 

added including digital MODBUS, 

Data-logging and Relays. The 

TT-MA analyser family are the 

most economical full feature 

industrial analysers available in the 

marketplace, often at a fraction of 

the cost of other analysers. 

herbert@atlassystems.co.za 

+27 (0)11 4409312

20 

A new radar level sensor for water-supply and sewage 

systems 

The VEGAPULS WL S 61 radar 

sensor is ideal for all simple 

applications in the water-supply 

and sewage sectors. 

Featuring a wide range 

of mounting options, it is an 

especially cost-effective radar 

solution, because it can be 

readily integrated into existing 

infrastructure. 

Just as with the VEGAPULS WL 

61, which has been available for 

several years with a large installed 

base, the new VEGAPULS WL S 61 

offers a design optimized for use 

in the water-supply and sewage 

sectors. 

Radar technology offers 

numerous advantages compared 

with ultrasonic sensors, which 

used to be standard in this sector; 

radar is independent of weather 

influences, strong sun, wind, fog or 

rain. 

In addition, no compensation 

is needed for variations in the 

signal transmission time due to 

air temperature fluctuations. 

With an accuracy of +/- 5 mm, the 

VEGAPULS WL S 61 covers a wide 

range of applications. 

This sensor is particularly 

suitable for level and flow 

measurement in water treatment 

plants. Its excellent focusing 

enables its use in pumping stations 

and rainwater overflow basins, 

for flow measurement in open 

channels, and for level monitoring. 

The sensor’s robust housing is 

wear and maintenance-free, and 

its high degree of protection, 

IP 68 (2 bar), also makes it 

suitable for applications where 


the sensor may be temporarily 

submerged. The unit complies 

with the latest LPR standard (Level 

Probing Radar), and is approved for 

open-air use without restrictions 

or special attachments. 

An entirely new feature is 

Bluetooth wireless operation from 

a smartphone or tablet (and/or a PC 

with PACTware) when combined 

with a Bluetooth USB adapter; 

this makes commissioning 

and diagnosis even simpler. 

Corresponding display and signal 

processing units enable the display 

of measurements and provide the 

relay outputs needed, for example, 

to control a pump. 

chantal.groom@vega.com 

Under high pressure… 

The type MAN-U diaphragm 

differential pressure gauges 

have been specifically designed 

to be both cost-efficient and 

flexible. The instruments, used to 

check filter obstructions, pressure 

drops, flow rate differences, level 

measurements and generally 

the difference between two 

pressures of equal or different 

circuits, are available for a variety 

of measuring ranges from 0 ... 100 

mbar to 0 ... 25 bar differential 

pressure. The effective measuring 

system with a double diaphragm 

is suitable for gaseous and liquid 

media, to be used in processes 

up to 200 bar static pressure 

and withstand temperatures of 

up to 150° C. Even one-sided 

overpressure levels of up to 200 

bar can be tolerated thanks to a 

special barrier. 

A large range of options allows 

individual and exact setting of 

the differential pressure gauge to 

match the relevant application and 

medium. Of course, the gauges 

can also be designed for process 

control with switch contacts. In 

addition, designs with suitable 

damping fluids allow its use in the 

case of strong pressure surges 

and vibrations. When connected 

to suitable pressure mediation 

lines, the measuring devices can 

also be installed away from the 

process itself. The pressure gauges 

are securely protected with topquality 

stainless steel housing in 

sizes of 100 and 150 mm with FKM 

and PTFE seals, and are also suitable 

for use with aggressive media. 

The large and easy-to-read 

display on an aluminium scale 

is located behind a cover made 

of specially hardened glass. 

Alongside devices with a front 

ring for integration into panels, 

there are suitable designs for 

process-suited mounting on 

walls or pipelines, including 

the corresponding mounting 

accessories. 


Control technology software is now compatible with 

Windows 10 

Phoenix Contact has made its 

software products for control 

technology executable on stateof-the-art 

operating system 

Windows 10 from Microsoft. 

Windows 10 is already used 

in many industrial companies. 

This trend is set to continue, due 

to the high security requirements 

in the industrial environment. 

Older operating systems such 

as Windows XP are no longer 

maintained by Microsoft, as 

they are no longer up to meeting 

increasing security requirements. 

The following software 

products are compatible with 

Windows 10 as of the named 

version: 

• Products and accessory 

products for AX Software Suite 

2016 1.83, such as PC Worx 6.30, 

SafetyProg 3.40, Visu+ / Visu+ Express 

2.42, WebVisit 6.30, AX OPC 

Server 3.0.96, Config+ 1.60, Diag+ 

2.60, Diag+ NetScan 1.50 

• Tools and application 

interfaces, such as PC Worx 

Firmware Updater 2.1 and UA 

Server 1.10, PLCI 1.10, HFI 3.20, 

PCI driver for Windows 8/10 (32 

bit/64 bit) 

• Technology 

Components, such as Multiprog 

5.51, Safeprog 3.40 

patrickr@phoenixcontact.co.za

21 


Flow indicator with rotor 

up to 16 bar. The instruments can 

be used for temperatures up to 

110 °C (polysulfone) or up to 60 °C 

(Trogamid-T). 

The special connection 

supports enable optimum turning 

of the sight glass of this indicating 

unit for an optimum view even 

during operation. 


Read your 

mag 

online at 

www.whatsnewinprocessing.co.za 

The rotating vane flow indicator 

model DAF is for application 

where visual flow indication 

without flow measurement is 

required. 

A square housing with 

transparent front and back 

windows contains a rotating vane 

whose rotary motion, caused by 

the flowing medium, indicates 

presence of "flow”. 

The DAF series may be installed 

in pipes from G 1/8 to G 1 ½ with the 

same housing. Further versions are 

available with flange connection 

from DN 15 to DN 50. Flow ranges 

from 0.03…0.1 to 5…150 l/min can 

be obtained by changing the inlet 

port orifice. 

The instruments can be 

installed in any position. Flow, 

however, must be in the direction 

indicated by the arrow. 

Four different material 

combinations allow an optimum 

instrument selection for a 

multitude of applications. 

A housing made of complete 

plastic (Trogamid-T or polysulfone 

with stainless steel connections 

for aggressive media) provide a 

cost-effective flow indicator for 

pressures up to 10 bar. 

The flow indicator DAF can 

also be supplied with a brass 

housing with Trogamid-T cover 

(or stainless steel housing with 

polysulfone cover) for pressures

22 


New scope offers best-in-class signal visualization 

Announcing the launch of 

the new TBS2000, a next 

generation basic oscilloscope 

featuring the longest record 

length and largest display in its 

class for faster signal evaluation 

and troubleshooting. This latest 

addition to the 

Tektronix portfolio puts 

expanded capabilities, including 

the ability to use a wide range of 

Tektronix probes, into the hands 

of budget-constrained design 

engineers and educators. 

Building on the success of their 

TDS2000 Series, the most widely 

used oscilloscope in the world, the 

new TBS2000 gives users a level 

of design insight previously not 

available in this class of instrument. 

The new instrument also sets a new 

standard for usability with features 

like a large display for easy signal 

visualization and a comprehensive 

set of automatic waveform 

measurements that are coupled 

with graphical explanations to 

help engineers better understand 

their measurements. 

Design engineers use 

general-purpose oscilloscopes 

to prototype, debug and validate 

designs of new products and for 

general troubleshooting. 

In education, such 

oscilloscopes give students handson 

experience in electronics 

engineering and educators 

need to efficiently mentor and 

monitor large groups of students. 

The TBS2000 meets these 

requirements and more: 

• Models are available with 70 

MHz or 100 MHz bandwidth and 

with 2 or 4 channels. 

• With a 9-inch WVGA display, 

the TBS2000 can display 15 

horizontal (time) divisions 

allowing users to see 50 percent 

more signal than any other scope 

in this category. 

• A 20 Mpoint record length 

with single-knob pan and zoom 

provides the ability to capture 

long time duration signals and 

easily navigate to find important 

details. 

• Support for the Tektronix VPI 

probe interface – the first time for 

a low-cost Tektronix oscilloscope 

– allows users to use a wide range 

of Tektronix active probes at an 

affordable price. 

• New HelpEverywhere contextsensitive, 

configurable help 

provides on-screen tips for 

important settings. 

• Wi-Fi dongle support 

enables wireless connectivity 

so educators can easily set up 

electronics engineering labs or 

engineers can take advantage of 

the instrument’s LXI-compliant 

interface to conveniently control 

the oscilloscope remotely. 

sales@comtest.co.za 

Innovative and efficient level measurement 

The new Micropilot FMR10 

and FMR20 offer perfect 

application fit devices for level 

measurement in the Water & 

Wastewater industry and Utilities 

in all industries. 

Time saving and innovative 

commissioning, operation and 

maintenance via app using 

Bluetooth® wireless technology 

convince as well as a perfect priceperformance-ratio 

due to unique 

radar chip design. 

Micropilot FMR10 and 

FMR20 belong to the first noncontact 

radars with Bluetooth® 

commissioning, operation and 

maintenance app. Signal curves 

can be shown via app on every 

Bluetooth® enabled smartphone 

or tablet (iOS, Android). 

This increases plant availability 

due to fast access to maintenance 

information, and guarantees cost 

savings because of the usage of 

existing non-proprietary tool 

infrastructure. Furthermore 

FMR10 and FMR20 are the most 

compact radars in their class 

thanks to unique radar chip design 

with integrated radio frequency 

components and direct emission 

transceiver – invented by the 

manufacturer. 

With the compact design the 

devices fit also in limited space 

applications, which mean an 

extended application scope for the 

radar technology. 

Micropilot FMR10 and 

FMR20 are providing best priceperformance 

ratio. For the first 

time radar technology is available 

in price range of typical water 

and wastewater level devices. 

Especially for this industry and 

utilities in all industries the devices 

fit the needs: Easy setup with just 

three main parameters and a 

remote indicator solution resulting 

in time savings and enhanced 

safety. 

The full PVDF body of the device 

resists outdoor conditions and 

guarantees a long sensor lifetime. 

Sealed wiring and fully potted 

electronics eliminate water ingress 

and allow operation under harsh 

environmental conditions, which 

means enhanced availability. 

Also in hazardous areas or 

places difficult to reach, safe and 

secure wireless remote access 

via Bluetooth offers a lot of 

advantages. There is no additional 

tool and adapter or wiring effort 

required. It is as simple as this: 

Connect – set – ready! 

The communication is 

absolute secure due to encrypted 

data transmission and password 

protected communication so 

that unauthorised access or 

manipulation is not possible. 

Technical details Micropilot 

FMR10: 

• Level measurement 

• Wireless commission via 

Bluetooth® app 

• 4 to 20mA output signal 

• Non Ex 

• Measuring range: 5m 

• Accuracy: ± 5mm 

• Process/Ambient temperature: 

-40 to +60°C 

• Ingress protection: IP66 / 

NEMA4x 

• Fixed cable length: 10m 

Technical details Micro pilot 

FMR20: 

• Level and Flow (with 

open channels or weirs, via 

linearization table) 

• Commissioning via HART or 

optionally wireless via Bluetooth® 

app 

• Optional with RIA15 remote 

display for commissioning 

• 4 to 20mA / HART output signal 

• Gas Ex approvals 

• Measuring range: 10m or 20m 

• Accuracy: ± 2mm 

• Process/Ambient temperature: 

-40 to +80°C 

• Ingress protection: IP66/68, 

NEMA4x/6P 

• Cable length: up to 300 m 

hennie.pretorius@ 

za.endress.com

23 

New AC power supply with integrated energy storage 

Control valve 

now available 

in ANSI Class 

600 and PN 63 

The new uninterruptible power 

supplies (USP) from the TRIO 

product range for the DIN rail 

reliably supply AC loads with up 

to 750 VA/600 W. 

The power supply is for 230 

V AC and 120 V AC applications. 

Thanks to the integrated USB 

interface, high-level devices can 

be connected to it. In this way, any 

industrial PCs connected to the 

power supply can be shut down in a 

controlled way. The pure sine curve 

at the output enables a seamless 

transition, as the sine generated in 

battery operation runs in sync with 

the mains previously used for the 

supply. 

Since a UPS module and 

energy storage are combined in 

one housing, the power supply 

is particularly space-saving. The 

integrated VRLA energy storage 

ensures long buffer times and can 


be extended with a further energy 

storage unit. Supplying loads from 

the energy storage is possible, even 

without mains input. The device 

also has LED status indicators for 

signaling and function monitoring, 

as well as active 24 V DC switch 

outputs for forwarding to a higherlevel 

control system. 

tonyr@phoenixcontact.co.za 

T 

he ARCA ECOTROL® 8C control 

valve has proven itself in the 

process chemical, oil & gas as well 

and power generation industries 

for many years. 

The unique cage retainer / 

clamping seat system enables 

simple maintenance to be done 

without the need for special tools. 

The ECOTROL offers a wide range 

of process tailored valve internals, 

including standard parabolic 

plugs (either metal seated or with 

the patented Arca soft seal system), 

multistage low-noise perforated 

as well as double guided valve 

plugs. The gland packing system 

is certified according to TA Luft 

respectively ISO15848 Class B 

for a temperature range from -46 

up to +200°C. ARCA of Germany 

have now extended the range 

to include valves with ANSI 600 

and PN63 flanges or butt-welded 

ends. The valves meets ASTM and 

ASME standards applicable to the 

chemical and oil & gas industries. 

With the associated ARCA actuator 

type 812 with its innovative multispring 

field reversible diaphragm 

and associated intelligent 

positioners and optional 

spring chamber blanketing 

with instrument air, the ARCA 

ECOTROL® 8C is a technically, ecofriendly 

and economical process 

control valve solution. 

sales@valve.co.za

24 


Accurate measurements for process control and product 

quality of LNG 

Natural gas is sourced from 

various gas fields and offers a 

major leap towards a renewablebased 

energy future. 

Colourless, odourless and nontoxic, 

it is the cleanest-burning 

hydrocarbon on the market today, 

with global demand on the rise. 

It is used for both heat and 

power, and the automotive market 

has also embraced it to keep 

vehicles on the road. 

The majority of natural gas is 

transported in gaseous form via 

onshore or offshore gas pipelines. 

For stranded gas reserves where 

there is little or no local demand, 

or for long transport distances – 

more than 1000km offshore or less 

than 3000km onshore - it becomes 

more economical to liquefy the 

natural gas prior to transportation, 

especially as it ensures safe and 

easy storage to its various locations. 

In addition, due to the nearly 

600-fold reduction in volume for 

liquid natural gas (LNG) versus 

natural gas, LNG is often the 

preferred method for local storage. 

Continuous uninterrupted 

operation – the gas pre-treatment, 

dehydration, and liquefaction 

process trains – is essential to 

ensure on-time LNG loading and 

shipment. 

In addition, processing feed 

gas to remove contaminants is 

critical to the operation of LNG 

plants. Raw natural gas from 

different geological formations 

contains varying amounts of acid 

gases (H2S and CO2). 

These 

contaminants 

must be removed from LNG 

feed gas to prevent CO2 

from freezing at cryogenic 

processing temperatures and 

H2S from exceeding gas quality 

specifications. 

Once LNG has been liquefied 

and stored in tanks, it is ready for 

transport to other markets, usually 

via LNG carrier. These custody 

transfers from the storage tank 

to the ship, or from the ship at a 

receiving terminal, often involve 

millions of rands of product in a 

single shipment. 

As such, it is essential that 

both the deliverer and recipient of 

the LNG know exactly how much 

energy has been transacted, and 

an uncertainty of as little as one 

percent in energy transferred can 

cost the buyer or seller dearly. The 

compositional measurements 

of natural gas in gaseous and 

liquefied states, and of mixed 

refrigerants, help LNG plants 

operate efficiently and determine 

the energy value of LNG. According 

to the Group International des 

Importateurs de Gaz Naturel 

Liquéfié (GIIGNL), a key factor 

in determining proper energy 

transfer is the measurement of 

gross calorific value (GCV), which is 

calculated from LNG composition. 

For traditional GC-vaporiser 

systems, it is essential to eliminate 

partial and pre-vaporisation for all 

LNG flow rates of the LNG sample, 

which requires careful installation 

and proper maintenance to ensure 

good insulation and no hot spots 

in the sample vaporisation and 

transport paths. 

In addition, the GIIGNL 

states that LNG must be sampled 

during stable flow of LNG. Data 

collected during flow variations 

and interruptions is not used 

in the calculation of the energy 

transferred, and can result in a 

significant amount of LNG being 

transferred without known GCV. 

Laser spectroscopy analysers 

from SpectraSensors have the 

technology to perform critical 

measurements throughout 

the LNG value chain - from pretreatment 

and liquefaction 

through to custody transfer and 

regasification to support on-time 

shipments. Its tuneable diode 

laser absorption spectroscopy 

analysers (TDLAS) monitor H2O, 

H2S and CO2 concentrations in 

natural gas as the gas undergoes 

treatment to remove and control 

these contaminants prior to 

liquefaction. 

Furthermore, SpectraSensors 

Raman Optograf LNG analysers 

perform on-line composition 

measurements of feed gas, LNG 

as a cryogenic liquid, mixed 

refrigerant, and gas following LNG 

regasification. 

A unique feature of the 

Optograf LNG analyser is that 

it measures the composition 

of LNG in the cryogenic liquid 

state, resulting faster update 

times because it does not 

require any vaporisation, sample 

conditioning, or sample transport. 

The Optograf LNG analyser is 

essentially immune to LNG flow 

variations, and so can provide a 

more complete measurement 

of the GCV of the entire shipload. 

Maintenance is also significantly 

lower with the Optograf LNG 

analyser, since there is no moving 

parts and no insulation to degrade. 

LNG that has been delivered 

to an import terminal may be 

however too rich or too lean to 

meet local pipeline specifications 

of the downstream markets to 

which the gas will be delivered. 

There are several ways to modify 

the CV of the natural gas. The CV can 

be reduced by adding N2 or CO2, 

or by selectively removing C3/C4 

components from the sample. 

The CV can be increased by 

mixing with liquefied petroleum 

gas (LPG) or natural gas liquids 

(NGL). And, in some cases, LNG with 

different CVs can be blended to 

achieve target quality. 

Measurement of the CV of 

the final mixture is essential to 

confirming that the product 

quality meets local regulations to 

avoid significant tariffs. The Wobbe 

Index (WI), which is calculated from 

the gas composition, is the most 

widely accepted measure of gas 

quality and interchangeability. 

The Optograf LNG analyser 

provides 

composition 

measurement of the LNG, WI, 

and simultaneously provides the 

concentration of nitrogen, which 

can be used to ensure that nitrogen 

levels do not exceed pipeline 

specifications. 

WI modification of natural 

gas at import terminals is often 

measured with a Process GC. Prior 

to analysis, the LNG sample must 

be vaporised. 

Poor repeatability in 

vaporisation leads to large 

variations in WI, adding 

uncertainty to the ballasting 

process. In addition, vaporisation 

and sample transport lag time, 

coupled with typical Process 

GC update times of four to five 

minutes, means that this approach 

provides only sporadic updates 

during ballasting, increasing the 

likelihood of overshooting the WI 

target, and incurring additional 

cost. 

Because the Optograf LNG 

analyser is able to measure the 

sample in the cryogenic liquid, 

response times are much faster and 

repeatability is much higher than 

with legacy GC/ vaporiser systems. 

As demand grows, LNG export 

facilities will need to handle 

natural gas feeds of varying quality 

from multiple sources, and so 

adjust refrigerant composition 

to ensure the lowest energy 

consumption during liquefaction. 

In addition, these plants will need 

to dynamically compensate for 

refrigerant losses with makeup 

refrigerant. The technology 

from SpectraSensors measures 

both natural gas and make-up 

refrigerant composition in both 

the gas and liquid phases, so plant 

operators can measure the quality 

of the feed gas and thus adjust their 

make-up refrigerant for optimum 

plant operating efficiency. 

carmine.canale@ 

za.endress.com

25 

Precise, hygienic and dynamic switching and control from 

electromotive diaphragm valves 


The Type 3323 shut-off valve 

and the Type 3363 control 

valve are two new additions to 

a line of electromotive valves, 

which – especially for applications 

without a compressed air supply – 

set new standards with respect to 

performance, reliability and costeffectiveness. 

The valves with an 

electromotive actuator are ideal 

for applications that either do not 

require compressed air or for which 

compressed air is not available due 

to the difficulty of conveying it to 

the application. 

They feature high control 

accuracy and highly dynamic 

control, which allows them to 

reach the set point exactly and 

instantaneously with dynamic 

performance of 4 mm/s. 

The maximum closing time 

is below 4.5 s. Overshooting or 

undershooting, which can occur 

with pneumatic valves, is not 

possible. Integration of the piloting 

function in the compact drive 

eliminates the need for control 

cabinet installation, as well as field 

piping and the power supply for 

the compressed air. 

The electromotive drive 

principle allows adaptation of 

the driving force to the respective 

application, which increases 

the life of the diaphragms and 

maintenance intervals, thus 

reducing maintenance costs. 

Safety is the top priority 

The electromotive drives 

can be combined with diverse 

standard bodies and diaphragms 

of the family of pneumatically 

operated products. Electromotive 

valves are very cost-effective due to 

their low energy costs and savings 

throughout the entire system. 

A special advantage of the this 

solution is an innovative cogging 

torque controller, which fixes 

the position of the valve without 

additional energy consumption. 

If there is a power outage the 

safety position can be approached 

via the optional SAFEPOS energy 

storage pack. The safety position 

can also be adapted to the 

particular process. A mechanical 

position indicator with a 360° LED 

clearly indicates the position and 

status of the valve at all times. 

Hygienic, high-quality and 

durable 

The field bus capable Type 

3323 / 3363 diaphragm valves 

consist entirely of high-quality 

components. 

The linear motion is executed 

by a brushless DC motor with a 

planetary gear via a low-friction, 

permanently lubricated ball screw. 

This also prevents negative effects 

from pressure surges, which occur 

in pneumatic drives. 

Precise control with segment disc valves 

Segment disc valves work on 

a very simple but effective 

principle. The central throttling 

elements – the segment discs 

that glide and seal against each 

other – are positioned in the valve 

body perpendicular to the flow 

direction. 

On a non-rotatable aligned 

segment disc whose geometry 

determines the flow rate and 

characteristic, a movable disc 

having the same number 

of segments is shifted by a 

tangentially engaging rod in such 

a way that the free cross-sectional 

area of the segments changes 

continuously. 

Regardless of the prevailing 

pressure difference, a spring 

assembly constantly presses the 

movable disc onto the fixed disc. 

As a result, the flow direction is 

variable and the valve can be 

installed in any position. 

This special design makes 

segment disc valves one of the 

few valves that combine control 

precision even in extreme 

operating conditions with a 

high seal tightness and very low 

exposure to wear. 

Segment disc valves and 

Segment disc orifices 

Perfect and variable control 

with high precision over a wide 

flow range is made possible by the 

segment disc valves from Schubert 

& Salzer. 

Due to the robust design and 

the reciprocal flow direction, 

segment disc valves are suitable 

The robust powder-coated 

aluminium body with protection 

type IP65/IP67 features an easy-toclean 

and closed design. The shutoff 

and control valves are resistant 

to weather, impacts and vibrations, 

which makes them ideal for use in 

harsh environments. 

Ideal for hygienic applications 

The new electromotive 

diaphragm valves are offered as 

a shut-off valve (Type 3323) and 

as a control valve (Type 3363), 

in diameters up to DN50. The 

FDA, USP and EHEDG compliant 

valves are especially suitable for 

cleanroom, filling, packaging 

and CIP/SIP applications in the 

pharmaceutical and health care 

sectors, for use in the dairy and 

cosmetics industries, as well as for 

industrial water treatment. When 

pressurised air is not available or 

not wanted, electromotive valves 

are ideal. 

For valves that are operated 

remotely from the central air 

supply, the operational costs can 

be reduced. The superior control 

characteristics are another benefit 

of electromotive actuators. 

dave.strydom@burkert.com 

for fluids as well as vapours, even 

if these are contaminated by 

particles. 

The wide range of applications 

includes areas such as building 

materials, chemical and power 

plants, pipelines, water supply and 

disposal, as well as shipbuilding. 

This ingeniously simple but 

effective valve design is available 

up to nominal size DN800. 

keith.hedges@macfluid.co.za 

Robust and rugged tablet 

Announcing the launch of 

a new rugged tablet, the 

Windows HR 802-RG. 

This “worker-proof” tablet, 

with CPU: Intel Bay-Tray Z3735F 

Quad-core turbo 1.8GHz, boasts 

two cameras as well as GPS and 

barcode scanner. The tablet comes 

standard with Windows 10, Wi-Fi 

and Bluetooth 4.0 capabilities as 

well as 2G ram and an additional 

32G SSD. 

The 8 inch display, with 

Capacitive Multi-touch IPS screen 

at 1280*800 pixels, operates in 

temperatures from -10⁰C up to 

50⁰C. Optional extras include 

finger-print scanner, external 

battery, handheld belt, docking 

station and support for 2D code. 

info@rjconnect.co.za

26 


Compact block valve series – the next generation 

The new and, at the same time, 

smallest of the five actuator 

The new and, at the same time, 

smallest of the five actuator sizes of 

the iComLine® is setting standards 

in the area of miniature valve 

designs. 

This valve size offers a flow 

capability of 2.0 litres per minute, 

whilst the height of the pneumatic 

actuator is scarcely larger than the 

diameter of a 2 euro coin. 

The small area of 20 x 20 mm is 

setting new standards in the area of 

ultra pure pneumatic valves. 

Developed primarily for 

customers from the chemical and 

semiconductor industries, the 

iComLine® product line can now 

cover a wide range of uses. 

With a focus on process 

equipment, in addition to 

providing a compact design and 

high resistance to media, the 

iComLine® series also makes it 

possible to use valves as a multifunctional 

unit in the form of a 

multi-port valve block. 

Various actuator and 

connection options, as well 

as a corresponding range of 

accessories, are also available. 

These options, coupled with 

the performance capability of the 

valves, open up numerous new 

areas of use. 

The new actuator size 

enables the valves to be used for 

applications in semiconductor 

production, laboratory and 

process analytics, as well as in the 

manufacturing of energy storage 

systems. 

The visual design and 

necessary operating parameters 

are identical to all other valves in 

the GEMÜ iComLine® series. 

claudio.darpin@gemue.co.za 

New multifunction measuring tool for all professionals in HVAC 

and industry 

The AMI 300 is a new 

multifunction instrument 

which is a key measuring tool 

for all professionals in HVAC and 

industry. The unit can measure up 

to 6 parameters simultaneously 

for pressure, temperature (RTD, 

thermocouple, NTC), humidity, 

air quality, air velocity and airflow, 

and tachometry. 

Some 12 000 values can be 

stored and then restored on PC 

through wireless communication. 

The AMI has a large 70 x 50 mm 

display (with bargraph) which 

allows quick reading of results and 

browsing is easy via a joystick on 

the keypad. 

The wireless probes are 

supplied with a multifunction 

key to allow measurement and 

settings. 

A large choice of probes are 

available such as vanes with 

diameters of 14 mm, 70 mm 

and 100 mm, high resistance 

gooseneck-shaped hotwire, 

CO/CO2, multifunction, high 

temperature hygrometry, RTD, 

thermocouple etc. 

The interchangeable 

measuring modules are 

individually calibrated and are 

automatically recognized by the 

instrument via the Smart-plus 

system. As example, the AMI can 

be equipped with several pressure 

measuring modules with different 

measuring ranges. 

This new system allows 

evolution according to 

measurements that must be 

carried out. 

info@asstech.co.za 

Wide light band facilitates reliable detection of both small 

and large objects 

Featuring a wide light band, 

the Leuze RK 46C.DXL VarOS 

retro reflective sensor is able to 

reliably detect both small and 

large objects. 

Objects can be round, angular 

or both, with glossy surfaces, have 

transparent shrink wrapped film 

or even be totally black, with gaps 

or with high ambient light levels. 

These Leuze sensors are ideal for 

when the objects to be detected 

or the associated environmental 

conditions deviate from the norm. 

The Leuze RK 46C.DXL 

VarOS retro reflective sensor is 

particularly effective in this regard 

as it responds to objects with the 

entire width of its light band, which 

gives it the capability to be able to 

handle interruptions. 

The wide light band allows for 

detection over a 45 mm to 60 mm 

wide area 

The sensitivity and/or 

resolution of the sensor can be 

adjusted easily by means of a 

button located on the rear housing. 

And this Leuze sensor features a 

handy ‘teach me’ function which 

allows it to be adapted easily 

between two object sizes greater 

than 8 mm at the touch of a button. 

This ensures optimum flexibility of 

application. 

The use of this sensor does 

away with the need for expensive 

light barriers or multiple individual 

sensors. 

Other features include the 

ability to calibrate for detection 

of transparent, perforated or 

small objects as well as the ability 

to reliably detect even with 

depolarising media such as foil 

packaging. 

bryant@countapulse.co.za

27 


Testing spring operated 

pressure safety valves in situ 

The PreVenTest is a robust, 

but ingeniously built system 

for testing all types and sizes of 

spring operated pressure safety 

valves ‘In-Situ’, in process and 

under the normal operating 

conditions. The portable system 

enables you to proof the correct 

working and performance or 

identify PSV’s in need of repair/ 

maintenance without plant shutdown. 

The ‘In-Situ’ PreVenTest 

system is standard equipped with 

industrial laptop and is available in 

two versions; the fully automatic 

PreVenTest Advance (optionally 

available in intrinsically safe / ATEX 

certified version) and the ultralight, 

battery driven and handcontrolled 

PreVenTest LTC. 

Both the Advance and LTC are 

suitable for the same extended 

range up to 20 kN and completed 

with computer registration. The 

PreVenTest software is an easily 

operated user-friendly software 

package that will recognize the set 

pressure of the valve and will create 

a detailed test certificate after the 

test. 

PreVenTest Advance: 

- Fully automatic, computer 

control and operation. 

- Very universal and versatile 

character. 

- Robust portable system. 

- Prepared and equipped for all 

brands, types and sizes. 

Optional features: 

- ATEX Intrinsically safe version. 

- 50 kN set for testing without 

or with limited process / line 

pressure. 

admin@atts.co.za 

New absolute pressure 

transmitter with different 

measuring ranges 

As of now, ifm has added 

absolute pressure sensors 

to its versatile portfolio in the 

pressure sensor range. 

The new PT05 series with 

robust metal measuring cell, G 

1/4 process connection, M12 

connector and analogue output is 

available in the common pressure 

ranges up to 10 bar. 

Absolute pressure sensors 

operate independently of the 

surrounding air pressure; that is 

what distinguishes them from 

sensors working on a relative 

measurement principle. 

The measurement is not 

influenced by weather and 

altitude-related fluctuations of air 

pressure. This is often a decisive 

factor in vacuum applications, 

which require a fine pressure 

control. 

Absolute pressure sensors do 

not require ventilation, therefore 

incorrect measurement due to a 

blocked exhaust is impossible. In 

the field of pressure sensors the 

new units stand out as specialists 

for ”specific duties“. 

info.za@ifm.com

28 


New sensor generation for 3-dimensional object measurement 

Wenglor has developed 

sensors that can scan and 

evaluate objects in 3 dimensions. 

This generation of 70 models 

of the weCat3D Profile Sensors 

allows data to be either read out 

directly as measured values or 

used for rapid further processing 

of the point cloud. 

3 D calculation of volume is of 

great value in industries such as 

food, machinery manufacturing, 

woodworking, electronics, 

automotive and pharmaceutical 

where precise compliance 

to weight and geometric 

specifications measurements are 

demanded. 

More than 12 million 

measuring points per second. 

The weCat3D series works with 

a visual field width within a range 

of 30 to 1300 mm in the horizontal 

X-axis and is capable of detecting 

differences in height of just 2.0 µm 

within the Z working range at a 

rate of 3.6 to 12 million measuring 

points per second. Available laser 

classes (1, 2M, 3R, 3B) and two 

selectable types of light (red, blue) 

result in a diverse product portfolio 

of more than 70 models. 

Two performance classes and a 

thousand possibilities 

With a weight of just 300 g and 

a space-saving housing of 90 x 

36 x 64 mm), the model weCat3D 

MLSL scans as many as 3.6 million 

measuring points/sec, has an 

output range of up to 4000 Hz, as 

well as a resolution of down to 22 

µm in visual field width X and down 

to 3.3 µm in working distance Z. 

The model weCat3D MLWL 

scans up to 12 million measuring 

points/sec, has an output rate of up 

to 6000 Hz, visual field widths from 

30 to 1300 mm and high resolution 

down to 17 µm in visual field width 

X and down to 2.0 µm in working 

distance Z. 

Due to this extremely high 

resolution in the Z and X directions, 

the sensors can detect the smallest 

components in the micron range 

such as those used in PCB assembly. 

The special algorithms allow 

the sensors to generate powerful 

measuring signals and top quality 

profile data that is not even 

impaired by glossy, reflective 

surfaces such as metals. 

The high dynamic range 

ensures that objects can be 

precisely measured almost 

independent of colour and 

brightness. 

info@asstech.co.za 

Controllable single-use diaphragm valve 

Introducing the world’s first 

controllable single-use 

diaphragm valve, the GEMÜ 

SUMONDO. The product range 

now comprises a manually 

operated version alongside a 

pneumatically operated solution. 

The trend towards simplified 

upstream and downstream 

plant designs and the 

effective prevention of crosscontamination 

risks means that 

single-use disposable technology 

is becoming an increasingly 

high-profile and important field 

– especially in pharmaceutical 

process engineering. 

Single-use design is 

increasingly being used 

particularly in the manufacture 

of smaller batch sizes, which are 

required, for example, in research 

and pilot plants. 

GEMÜ SUMONDO links the 

valve body and actuator together 

using a defined process. After the 

application process, only the valve 

body is removed, the actuator itself 

can be reused repeatedly in the 

plant. 

The valve body is manufactured 

from polypropylene in a cleanroom 

and is gamma-sterilizable up to 

50 kGy. It isolates the working 

medium hermetically from 

the environment and from the 

actuator via a welded diaphragm. 

The internally welded diaphragm 

protects the medium from the 

environment not only during 

operation, but also after removal of 

the valve body. 

The major advantage of 

GEMÜ SUMONDO in comparison 

to conventional pinch valves lies 

in the precise controllability of 

processes. Using a tried and tested 

actuator design from conventional 

plant engineering, a high degree 

of flexibility and reliability can be 

achieved. 

The manually operated version 

has an optical position indicator as 

standard. 

The new actuator is 

manufactured from high-grade 

plastic. It is gamma-sterilizable and 

washable. 

An autoclavable version is 

planned for the first six months 

of 2017. The process for selecting 

the valve body is identical to that 

for the pneumatically operated 

version. 


Versatile and low cost pressure sensors 

The tried and tested principle 

of a thick-film ceramic 

measuring cell ensures great 

reliability from the compact 

and versatile type SEN-98/-99 

pressure sensors . 

This pressure sensor meets the 

highest of performance demands 

by virtue of its robust construction, 

overpressure safety properties, as 

well as temperature stability and 

good reproducibility. 

The unit’s overload protection 

limit is dependent on the 

measurement range, of which 

there are 31, running from -1...0 

bar to 0...600 bar relative pressure 

or from 0…1 to 0…25 bar absolute 

pressure. There is a choice of 4...20 

mA, 0...5 V or 0...10 V analogue 

outputs for signal transmission. 

Fast, on the spot information 

of the measured pressure is made 

possible by the practical AUF 

type plug-on displays. Standard 

sensors have protection class IP65. 

The wetted parts are stainless 

steel, ceramic and sealing 

material FKM. The SEN-98/-99 is 

manufactured with an accuracy of 

0.5% as standard, an accuracy of 

0.25% is available optionally. 

The optimum design opens 

up a wide range of applications 

for pressure sensors, for example, 

hydraulic systems, compressors, 

refrigeration industry, welding, 

vacuum, water and oil, gases. 


29 


Wide light band facilitates 

reliable detection of both 

small and large objects 

Featuring a wide light band, 

the Leuze RK 46C.DXL VarOS 

retro reflective sensor is able to 

reliably detect both small and 

large objects. 

Objects can be round, angular 

or both, with glossy surfaces, have 

transparent shrink wrapped film 

or even be totally black, with gaps 

or with high ambient light levels. 

These Leuze sensors are ideal for 

when the objects to be detected 

or the associated environmental 

conditions deviate from the norm. 

The Leuze RK 46C.DXL VarOS retro 

reflective sensor is particularly 

effective in this regard as it 

responds to objects with the entire 

width of its light band, which gives 

it the capability to be able to handle 

interruptions. 

The wide light band allows for 

detection over a 45 mm to 60 mm 

wide area 

The sensitivity and/or 

resolution of the sensor can be 

adjusted easily by means of a 

button located on the rear housing. 

And this Leuze sensor features a 

handy ‘teach me’ function which 

allows it to be adapted easily 

between two object sizes greater 

than 8 mm at the touch of a button. 

This ensures optimum flexibility 

of application. The use of this 

sensor does away with the need for 

expensive light barriers or multiple 

individual sensors. 

Other features include the 

ability to calibrate for detection 

of transparent, perforated or 

small objects as well as the ability 

to reliably detect even with 

depolarising media such as foil 

packaging. 


New universal meter with ultra 

bright or multicolour display 

MARKING systems 

*Terminal marking 

* Wire marking 

*Cable marking 

*Equipment marking 

THERMOFOX 

Hand held. 

Extensive storage capacity. 

Wide range of material. 

THERMOMARK ROLL 

This printer prints on roll and 

continuous media. 

THERMOMARK PRIME 

Fully portable. 

Prints on marking material in 

card and sheet format. 

The SUR-457 is an IP67 wall-mounted indicator with a large 57 mm 

LED display. The display is available with a multicolour or ultra 

bright option. 

The versatility of the measurement inputs and control outputs 

ensures that this unit is suitable for most industrial applications. 

Main features: 

• multicolour or ultra bright red, green and blue, 57 mm LED display 

• water tight IP 67 housing 

• displayed values range: -999 to 9999 

• universal input: 0/4-20 mA, 0-10V, 0-150 mV, RTD or TC 

• binary outputs: Relay / Optocoupler; analogue output: active or 

passive 

• temperature range: -20°C to +50°C 

• RS-485 / Modbus RTU 

• free configuration S-Config software 

THERMOMARK CARD 

Prints on marking material in 

card and sheet format. 

Call us today for your solution. 

JHB: 011 801 8200 

CT: 021 930 9666 

DBN: 031 701 2701 

PE: 041 364 0415 

www.phoenixcontact.co.za 

brandon.topham@retautomation.com

30 


Valve solutions for the solar energy industry 

All signs are pointing towards 

growth in the solar energy 

sector. The world market for 

the operation and servicing of 

photovoltaic power stations 

will see significant growth in 

the coming years. According 

to various studies, the installed 

capacity is set to triple worldwide 

by 2020. 

Valve solutions for the solar 

energy industry 

On account of the variety of 

processes, process media and the 

associated supply and disposal 

systems, a wide range of different 

solutions are required for the 

individual production steps in the 

area of valves, measurement and 

control systems. This is primarily 

due to the different quality and 

purity requirements as well as the 

flow rates required. 

The materials range from 

polypropylene (PP) and poly 

vinylidene fluoride (PVDF) to ultra 

pure and resistant perfluoroalkoxy 

(PFA). As well as various plastics, 

components made of stainless 

steel are also used depending on 

the process step. 

GEMÜ is able to cover this 

broad range of requirements 

comfortably with its extensive 

product range. 

In addition to standard 

solutions, customers can also 

be provided with individual, 

customized solutions thanks to 

the perfectly coordinated modular 

system. 

Depending on the valve 

required, GEMÜ offers various 

function and actuation types. 

Completely metal-free equipment 

and valves that are manufactured 

in the in-house cleanroom plant in 

Switzerland are also available. 

Innovative valves for a variety 

of applications 

The GEMÜ iComLine series is 

based on the globe valve design, 

has a cavity-filled design and 

boasts a long service life. The 

main advantage is the compact 

design and the resulting low space 

requirement. This can be further 

optimized by using what are 

referred to as block solutions. In 

this case, the iComLine valves are 

combined to form multi-functional 

valve blocks. 

In addition to the individual 

valves, further components such as 

sensors, check valves or electrical 

position indicators can also be 

integrated into these applicationspecific 

units. 

Another innovative product is 

the GEMÜ CleanStar "solar valve". 

This diaphragm valve, which 

also features the tried and tested 

GEMÜ seal system, impresses with 

its high quality and performance 

capability. 

Thanks to its cavity-filled 

design and the various types of 

design, it is suitable for a variety 

of processes in the solar energy 

industry. The SmartLine products 

in this valve range in particular 

combine excellent performance 

with the corresponding costefficiency. 

They are therefore 

preferably used in chemical supply 

systems as well as wet process 

equipment. 

The aforementioned range is 

rounded off by sensor solutions for 

flow and pressure measurement, 

accessories such as tubes and 

fittings, electrical position 

indicators and controllers as well 

as stainless steel valves and further 

metal valves with plastic linings. 


FREE ENTRANCE! 

Vanderbijlpark - 27 October 2016 

BELlVILLE - 26 JANUARY 2017 

Register online: www.whatsnewinprocessing.co.za 

Index of Advertisers 

with relevant page numbers 

Contact Roxanne 

roxannewnip@mweb.co.za 

or 0861 776 237 

See You There! 

ASSTech 27 

AT Technical Services 07 & 16 

AZ-Armaturen South Africa 

IBC 

Burkert Fluid Control Systems 05 

Endress+Hauser 17 

Honeywell 16 

Krohne 15 

Phoenix Contact 29 

PREI Instrumentation 23 

Protea Automations Solutions 19 

RET Automation Controls 

OFC 

Temp-Tek 09 & 16 

Temp-Tek 21 

Valve & Automation 13 

Vega Controls SA 

IFC 

SICK Automation 

OBC 

Read your magazine online at 

www.whatsnewinprocessing.co.za

31 


THE PLUG VALVE COMPANY 

ARMATUREN 

free of cavities & maintenance 

Plug Valve For 

Double Block + Bleed + Inspection-Service 

Type DBI 

The AZ-Armaturen double block and bleed 

valve is a plug valve with two independent 

sealing areas which provide a tight seal 

against pressure from both ends of the 

valve. Additionally, the cavity between the 

sealing areas can be vented/bleeded (DBI 

Type A) in order to recognize a leakage on 

one sealing immediately. 

The AZ-Armaturen double block and bleed 

valves are used in critical applications 

where any kind of leakage is not allowed 

to occur. Furthermore, the valve can be 

fitted upstream and/or downstream with 

additional inspection valves (Type B & C). 

This provides the advantage of inspection 

capabilities of the medium and draining 

possibilities for revision-service. The 

AZ-Armaturen double block and bleed 

valve can be operated manually or fully 

actuated. 

The AZ sales team is looking forward to 

assisting you with all your technical questions. 

AZ-Armaturen South Africa Pty Ltd 

28 Derick Coetzee Street 

Boksburg 1459, South Africa 

Tel.: +27 (0) 11 397 3665 

info@az-armaturen.co.za 

www.az-armaturen.co.za 

Years 1985 - 2015 

AZ-ARMATUREN South Africa 

block 2 block 1 

T T #1 

#2 T #1 

DBI Type A DBI Type B DBI Type C 

Mining / Chemical Valves 

• Plug Valves 

• Fully Lined Valves 

• Sampling Systems 

• Actuated Valves 

• Special Valves 

International Standards 

• ISO 9001 

• ISO 14001 

• SIL Certification 

• Low Emission TA-Luft 2002 

• Special Valves 

Manufactured in South Africa 

• German Design 

• Repairs / Refurbishment 

• Stock 

• Breakdown-Service 

• Consulting / Training

32 


SICK AUTO

WNIP SEPT OCT 19.5 DIGITAL

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