[Product Highlight] Series ACT Pneumatic and Electric Actuators

Pneumatic and Electric Actuators, Series ACT

The W.E. Anderson Series ACT Actuators are available in either pneumatic or electric models. The wide range of torques and voltages means there is an actuator for almost any application. The standard ISO 5211 mounting configuration makes installation to any valve or damper quick and simple. W.E. Anderson pneumatic ACT models are a compact rack-and-pinion design with a symmetrical structure that ensures fast and steady action, high precision, and high output power. The corrosion-resistant anodized aluminum body is designed to withstand harsh, abusive industrial environments and provide reliable service. We offer double acting and spring return models in a variety of sizes to fit any application. Continue reading “[Product Highlight] Series ACT Pneumatic and Electric Actuators”

The Key to Energy Efficiency

“In the real estate industry you always hear this phrase, ‘Location, location, location.’ I think for energy management systems the key is ‘Execution, execution, execution.'”[1]

— Sara Lisauskas, Energy Management Systems: Maximizing Energy Savings

What comes to mind when you think of the phrase “energy efficient?” Perhaps you think of LED light bulbs, electric cars, Energy Star appliances, or LEED-certified buildings. But energy efficiency isn’t limited to “green” products or certifications. Continue reading “The Key to Energy Efficiency”

ESD and Surge Issues in Pumping, Pressure Boosting, and Irrigation Applications

Electrostatic discharge (ESD) is a unique phenomenon that can be seen in everyday life. The effects of ESD can be seen by rubbing a balloon on your head, resulting in your hair sticking to the balloon, or by touching a doorknob or a pet in a dry building and receiving a static shock.

In irrigation, well water pumping, and pressure boosting applications, ESD can cause larger issues than just a small shock to your finger. Because plastics used in PVC pipes are insulators, the moving water builds up static electric charges. Eventually, this static electric buildup will discharge through an ungrounded pathway (e.g. instrumentation or sensors used to control a pump). Continue reading “ESD and Surge Issues in Pumping, Pressure Boosting, and Irrigation Applications”

How to Set Up and Use the Model TBU-00 Temperature Transmitter

Temperature Transmitter, Model TBU-00

The Model TBU-00 Temperature Transmitter is a high precision temperature transmitter. Its small size and weight allow it to easily mount in most temperature sensor instrument enclosures. The TBU-00 is ideal for process applications where a 4 to 20 mA signal is required, such as: food processing equipment, boiler equipment, and refrigeration equipment. Continue reading “How to Set Up and Use the Model TBU-00 Temperature Transmitter”

The Importance of Choosing An Accredited Calibration Laboratory

Picture this: You’re driving on the highway and push your car’s speed to the limit. Suddenly, a police officer pulls up behind you. Your heart races and stomach drops. You hold your breath as your eyes quickly dash to your car’s speedometer, double-checking your speed. Luckily, you aren’t going over the speed limit. Just as the butterflies in your stomach start to settle, red and blue lights start flashing behind you. You slow the car and come to a stop. The officer tells you that you were going far faster than you thought that you were. Turns out, your speedometer is out of calibration. Now, not only are you running late, but you also owe the state a couple hundred dollars.

If your speedometer isn’t calibrated properly, you risk fines, damage to your vehicle, and endangering those around you. You may face similar consequences if your instrumentation is not calibrated at a regularly established interval. You could be subject to disciplinary action from regulatory bodies, damage to your instrument or surrounding equipment, or even harming building occupants by using equipment that is out of specification. Continue reading “The Importance of Choosing An Accredited Calibration Laboratory”