The Fourth Industrial Revolution: Reshaping Industrial Process Control and Instrumentation

The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) is a term that describes the current era of rapid technological advancements characterized by the fusion of physical, digital, and biological systems. This revolution is fundamentally changing the way we live, work, and interact with one another. At the heart of 4IR lies the integration of cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), robotics, and automation, transforming industries and reshaping the global economy.

4IR will bring about significant changes and innovations in industrial process control and instrumentation. Here are some key predictions for how these products and systems will evolve:

Enhanced connectivity: The proliferation of IIoT devices and smart sensors will enable real-time monitoring and control of industrial processes. This increased connectivity will allow seamless communication between machines, systems, and operators, improving efficiency, reducing downtime, and optimizing performance.

Advanced analytics and AI: Integrating AI and machine learning algorithms will revolutionize data analysis in industrial settings. These technologies will enable predictive maintenance, anomaly detection, and process optimization by analyzing vast amounts of data generated by sensors and control systems. This will result in improved decision-making, reduced costs, and increased productivity.

Cloud-based solutions: The adoption of cloud computing will continue to grow, allowing for the massive storage, processing, and analysis of industrial data. Cloud-based platforms will enable remote monitoring, control, and collaboration, making it easier for businesses to manage their operations worldwide.

Augmented and virtual reality: AR and VR technologies will play a significant role in industrial process control and instrumentation. These technologies will enable immersive training experiences, remote assistance, and real-time visualization of complex processes. This will enhance the skills of the workforce and improve overall operational efficiency.

Cybersecurity: As industrial systems become more connected and digitized, the importance of cybersecurity will continue to grow. Robust security measures, such as encryption, authentication, and network segmentation, will be crucial to protect industrial control systems from cyber threats and ensure the integrity of sensitive data.

Modular and flexible design: Industrial process control products and instrumentation will increasingly adopt modular and flexible designs to accommodate industries' rapidly changing needs. This will enable businesses to quickly adapt to new technologies, processes, and market demands, ensuring their competitiveness in the 4IR landscape.

As the Fourth Industrial Revolution unfolds, industrial process control and instrumentation will undergo significant transformations. The integration of advanced technologies, enhanced connectivity, and data-driven decision-making will reshape the way industries operate. Your role in embracing these changes and investing in the necessary technologies and skills is crucial. It will not only position your business to thrive in the 4IR era but also contribute to the overall progress and success of the industry.

Ives Equipment
https://ivesequipment.com
610-768-1600

The Dawn of the Industrial Metaverse: Tech Giants Redefine Industrial Processes

The Consumer Technology Association organizes the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), an annual trade show. This event, taking place every January at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Nevada, showcases new products and technologies in the consumer electronics industry. CES is famous for its innovative gadgets, cutting-edge technology, and product previews in various tech segments.

The first day of CES 2024 featured the debut of the 'Industrial Metaverse', a project resulting from a significant partnership among major technology companies. This consortium believes that the Metaverse's greatest potential lies not in gaming, but in key economic sectors such as manufacturing, infrastructure, transportation, and others.

As a leader in industrial technology, Ives defines the "Industrial Metaverse" as a groundbreaking fusion of digital and physical industrial processes. This concept moves beyond the traditional boundaries of virtual reality and digital twins, creating a comprehensive, interconnected digital ecosystem that mirrors and enhances real-world industrial environments.

The Industrial Metaverse promises vast potential for the United States' industrial markets. It provides an immersive platform for design, simulation, and collaboration, revolutionizing our approach to manufacturing, infrastructure development, and transportation systems. Integrating AI, IoT, and advanced analytics, the Industrial Metaverse optimizes operations, enhances productivity, and fosters innovation.

In this Metaverse, predictive maintenance and real-time monitoring become more efficient, reducing downtime and boosting productivity. Its collaborative nature allows for the seamless integration of supply chains, enhancing coordination and reducing costs. Moreover, it provides an unparalleled platform for training and skill development, using virtual environments for safe and effective learning.

The Industrial Metaverse is poised to transform the landscape of American industry, leading to smarter, more sustainable, and highly efficient operational models. It represents not just a technological leap, but a gateway to a new era of industrial revolution.

Ives Equipment
https://ivesequipment.com
610-768-1600

Preventing Winter Shutdowns: How Freeze Protection Ensures Continuous Industrial Operations

As winter's icy grip tightens, industries brace for the chilling effects of plummeting temperatures. One of the most significant challenges they face is the risk of operational shutdowns due to freezing conditions. In this scenario, freeze protection becomes a cornerstone for ensuring continuous industrial operations. Freeze protection is critical in preventing winter shutdowns and maintaining industrial productivity.

The first layer of defense against the cold is understanding the risk. Many industrial processes involve fluids – water, chemicals, oils – that can freeze at low temperatures. When these fluids freeze, they can expand, causing pipes and containers to burst or crack, leading to equipment failures, safety hazards, and costly repairs. The consequences aren't just physical; they can significantly impact production schedules, leading to financial losses and compromised client relationships.

This is where heat tracing systems come into play. Heat tracing, an essential component of freeze protection, involves applying heating elements alongside pipes, valves, tanks, and other critical components. These systems maintain a constant temperature, preventing the contents from freezing. Modern heat tracing solutions are sophisticated, with self-regulating capabilities that adjust the heat output based on the surrounding temperature. This ensures energy efficiency while providing reliable freeze protection.

Beyond heating elements, insulation is another vital aspect of freeze protection. Insulating pipes and tanks reduce heat loss, allowing heating systems to work more effectively and efficiently. The suitable insulation materials, combined with expert installation, can significantly reduce the risk of freezing.

Automation and monitoring technologies have also revolutionized freeze protection. With real-time monitoring systems, industries can remotely track the temperatures of their equipment and receive instant alerts if temperatures approach dangerous levels. This proactive approach allows for quick responses, minimizing the risk of a freeze-induced shutdown.

The implementation of freeze protection strategies must be a tailored process. Each industry and facility has unique needs based on its location, the nature of the materials handled, and the specific equipment used. A comprehensive risk assessment is crucial to identify vulnerable areas and design a freeze protection system that addresses these risks effectively.

Training and preparedness are equally important. Employees should be trained in the proper operation of freeze protection systems and emergency response procedures should a system failure occur. This training ensures that issues are addressed swiftly and effectively, minimizing downtime.

Industries must also consider the environmental impact of their freeze protection strategies. Eco-friendly antifreeze solutions, energy-efficient heat tracing systems, and sustainable insulation materials are increasingly available, allowing industries to protect their operations from the cold while being mindful of their environmental footprint.

In conclusion, as the cold season approaches, the importance of freeze protection in industrial settings cannot be overstated. It is a multifaceted approach involving heat tracing, insulation, monitoring, tailored solutions, training, and environmental consideration. By adopting these strategies, industries can safeguard against winter shutdowns, ensuring their operations run smoothly and continuously, regardless of the outside temperature. This proactive approach protects equipment and investments and secures the industry's reputation as a reliable and resilient player in the market.

Ives Equipment Corp., a leader in industrial solutions, is proud to offer an extensive range of Nelson Heat Trace products, renowned for their reliability and efficiency in freeze protection and process temperature maintenance. Our dedicated team specializes in these cutting-edge systems' sales, design, and comprehensive support, ensuring your industrial operations remain uninterrupted, even in the harshest winter conditions. With our in-depth expertise, we provide tailored solutions that align perfectly with your unique requirements. Partnering with Ives Equipment Corp. means gaining access to top-tier heat tracing technology backed by a commitment to exceptional customer service and technical support. Trust us to keep your operations running smoothly, regardless of the weather.

610-768-1600
https://ivesequipment.com

Mastering Industrial Efficiency: Ives Equipment in Process Weighing

Process weighing is essential in manufacturing and industrial applications. It ensures that products meet specific quality and safety standards. Even slight weight variations can significantly influence the product's quality, safety, and effectiveness in industries where accuracy is critical.

There are two primary methods of process weighing: continuous and static.

Continuous weighing monitors materials as they continuously flow through a system. This method is prevalent in industries that handle bulk materials, such as the food, beverage, or chemical sectors, where raw materials consistently move through production lines. Continuous weighing ensures consistency in the quantity and quality of materials throughout production.

In contrast, static weighing focuses on weighing stationary items and is used when products need validation against a particular weight or standard. For instance, in packaging, static weighing ensures that packages have the correct product quantity before being sent to customers.

Batching technology ensures that products or raw materials are grouped into specific, predetermined amounts in tandem with these weighing techniques. Batching provides the right mix of components in sectors where various ingredients form a product, resulting in uniform product quality. This process is especially vital in the food and pharmaceutical sectors, where precision and consistency are crucial for health and safety.

In summary, process weighing is a determining factor in the industrial realm, assuring product quality, safety, and efficiency. Leveraging the technological strengths of Ives industrial weighing systems, industries can achieve the meticulousness and dependability necessary to thrive in the competitive marketplace.

610-768-1600
https://ivesequipment.com

Electronic Pressure and Temperature Switches

Industrial electronic pressure and temperature switches measure and control pressure and temperature in industrial processes. These devices typically consist of an electronic sensor, which measures the pressure or temperature, and an electronic control circuit, which compares the process value to a set point and generates an output signal.

The electronic sensor can be a piezoelectric, strain gauge, RTD, or thermocouple device. The electronic control circuit typically includes a microcontroller or microprocessor that can be programmed to perform various functions, such as controlling pressure or temperature, monitoring process variables, and communicating with other electronic devices.

Industrial electronic pressure and temperature switches are used in a wide range of industrial applications, including HVAC, oil and gas, chemical processing, food and beverage, and power generation. They are commonly used to control pumps, compressors, valves, and other process equipment to ensure optimal performance and safety.

Industrial electronic pressure and temperature switches have several advantages over electromechanical switches:

• Greater accuracy: Electronic switches use electronic sensing elements, which are more accurate than mechanical ones.
• Faster response time: Electronic switches can respond much faster to changes in pressure or temperature than mechanical switches.
• Greater durability: Electronic switches have no moving parts, so they are less likely to wear out or fail.
• Increased flexibility: Electronic switches can be programmed to perform a variety of functions and are easily integrated with other electronic devices.
• Lower maintenance: Electronic switches require less maintenance than mechanical switches, as they have no moving parts to wear out.
• Greater control: Electronic switches can be programmed for various set points and output multiple signals.
• Cost Savings: Electronic switches are generally less expensive over their lifetime because of their durability and lower maintenance requirements.

Ives Equipment

610-768-1600

https://ivesequipment.com

Sanitary and Hygienic Tubing, Fittings, Valves, and Pumps

Sanitary and hygienic tubes, fittings, valves, and pumps are used in a variety of industries, such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology, to convey materials and fluids in a safe and clean manner. These types of equipment are designed to meet strict standards for cleanliness and sanitation, which helps to prevent contamination and maintain the purity of the products being transported.

One of the key advantages of using sanitary and hygienic equipment is that it is designed to minimize the potential for bacterial growth. This is achieved through the use of materials that are resistant to corrosion and easy to clean, such as stainless steel and other high-grade alloys. The surfaces of these components are typically smooth and polished, which reduces the ability of bacteria to adhere to them and makes it easier to remove any contaminants that may be present.

Another important factor that contributes to the safety and purity of products conveyed through sanitary and hygienic equipment is the use of high-quality seals and gaskets. These components are designed to prevent the leakage of fluids and minimize the potential for cross-contamination between different products. They also help to maintain the integrity of the system by preventing the ingress of dust, dirt, and other contaminants.

Valves used in the sanitary and hygienic applications are designed to be easily disassembled and cleaned, some of them even can be cleaned in place (CIP). This makes it much easier to maintain the system and keep it in a sanitary condition. Pumps also have a similar design feature like the valves. The design of the pumps is critical in maintaining the purity of the products being transported. They are typically constructed with high-grade materials and feature smooth, polished surfaces that are easy to clean.

In summary, the use of sanitary and hygienic equipment provides a number of advantages when it comes to maintaining the purity and safety of products. The equipment is designed to minimize the potential for contamination, through the use of materials that are resistant to corrosion and easy to clean, high-quality seals and gaskets, and design that enable easy cleaning. All of these factors contribute to a safer and more efficient system that can help to ensure the quality and purity of the products being conveyed.

Ives Equipment

610-768-1600

https://ivesequipment.com

Low Cost Toxic, O2 and Combustible Fixed-point Gas Detection

Fixed-point gas detection systems detect and alarm for various toxic, combustible, and oxygen-deficient gases. The application of fixed-point gas detectors occurs in many industrial and commercial applications, such as refining, chemical processing plants, petrochemical plants, oil refineries, steel mills, and other heavy manufacturing facilities. Fixed-point detectors are used in many applications to detect the presence of a given gas in the atmosphere and to generate an alarm signal when that level is significant enough.

SensAir is a fixed-point gas detector system of industrial quality and affordability used for various industrial and commercial applications, including ambient gas monitoring for safety applications. Models are available for detecting hazardous gas, combustible gas, and oxygen shortage.

Ives Equipment Sales Engineers will assist you in specifying and applying the proper fixed-point gas detection system for your requirements. 

Ives Equipment

610-768-1600

https://ivesequipment.com

Siemens SITRANS P Pressure Instrumentation from Ives Equipment

SITRANS P from Siemens is a complete range of measurement instruments for measuring relative pressure, differential pressure and absolute pressure. In addition  to high measuring accuracy and ruggedness, the modular system features  superb operating convenience and functionality as well as a perfect safety concept.

Ives Equipment

610-768-1600

https://ivesequipment.com

Automation and Control Solutions for Hydrogen Production and Alternative Energy

One of the most important ways to reduce CO2 emissions in the chemical, oil, gas, paper, energy and transportation sectors is to generate and use green hydrogen from renewable sources. Electrolysis can convert electricity generated from wind, hydropower, or solar energy into hydrogen, which can then be stored in tanks, transported, and used whenever and wherever needed. Hydrogen's use is ubiquitous -  in CO2-neutral transportation, such as fuel cell vehicles, the chemical industry, steel manufacturing, and power plants. 

Process control is a primary and centralized function that responds to changes in operational consistency and load demand. Online monitoring and remote sensing advances, particularly for open-loop operations, are operated by controls and automation to develop actionable information for closed-loop control functions. In these situations, innovative automation solutions, such as those specified and implemented by Ives Equipment with flexible and integrated control technology, are required. 

With a focus on technical and economic feasibility for producing alternative energy and hydrogen fuels, Ives Equipment automation expertise provides exceptional control system experience that saves time and money and improves safety.

Ives Equipment

610-768-1600

https://ivesequipment.com

Excela™ Electronic Switch Increases Efficiency in Industrial Plants

Excela™ is the first switch of its kind. D designed to provide plant operators with an affordable way to upgrade to electronic performance, Excela™ has only two wires and retrofits quickly into existing mechanical switch infrastructure. This innovative, high-quality electronic pressure and temperature switch provide everything operators require for improved performance at an affordable price.

DOWNLOAD THE EXCELA™ BROCHURE HERE

Excela™ is particularly relevant for industrial plant upgrades because of the ease of maintenance and low costs associated with electronic switches installed in the existing two-wire mechanical switch infrastructure. Upgrades to ruggedly reliable, cutting-edge technology are simple, quick, and inexpensive. Unlike other options, which require reprogramming set points or other adjustments, making the transition difficult and costly, electronic switches provide an easy alternative.

The United Electric Excela™ provides:

• Two wire design allows for easy integration and lower initial costs.
• Simple programming and precision settings for better operational control and performance.
• LED display and red/green indicator lights provide visual status of operational performance.
• Rugged, solid state design delivers reliable performance, low maintenance, and lower cost of ownership.

For more information, contact Ives Equipment. Call 610-768-1600 or visit https://ivesequipment.com.

SensAlarm FLEX All-in-1 Universal Fixed Point Gas Detection System

Turn-Key Solution for Wide Range of Critical Safety Applications

SensAlarm FLEX is a complete gas detection system in a single enclosure. The system includes built-in LED strobes, a horn, and a highly visible 7" color LCD screen. SensAlarm FLEX is built around an advanced Intelligent Sensor platform that includes non-volatile memory for all key application variables and sensor data. A non-intrusive user interface allows for operational customization as well as access to sensor life parameters, TWA alarms, calibration data, and other data with date and time recording.

SensAlarm Plus is the ideal gas monitoring solution for labs, gas cylinder storage, industrial work areas, control room protection, or other applications where users benefit from a packaged gas detection system that works with all SensAlert Plus sensors.

All Sensidyne Plus Series sensors are supported by the SensAlarm FLEX sensor interfaces. Remote mounting the sensor up to 100 feet away simplifies monitoring in high, low, or adjacent locations. When a sensor is plugged in, the automatic uploading of variables, alarm values, and sensor information greatly simplifies installation and maintenance. Transportable calibration enables sensor calibration at the point of installation or in a workshop, followed by sensor hot-swapping in the field.

For more information contact Ives Equipment.
610-768-1600
https://ivesequipment.com

100% Hygienic Tank Cleaning Coverage & Water and Chemical Savings with Alfa Laval PlusClean® Nozzle

In the food, dairy beverage farmer, and personal care industries, sufficient tank cleaning can challenge certain products. It's not just about the tank walls. Internals like agitators connections and coils can create shadow areas with a high risk of product contamination. Solving this has meant techniques like spray balls, retractable cleaning devices, or the fill and dump method. These consume time, significant cleaning media, and energy, and they compromise hygienic safety.

Alfa Laval PlusClean® makes this challenge a thing of the past. This new cleaning nozzle ensures 100% cleaning coverage, even in shadow areas. Installed flush with the tank wall it, doesn't interfere with other internals in the tank and can even be used in tanks with components close to the walls.

Activated during cleaning-in-place, PlusClean® reduces water and chemical consumption by up to 80 percent and delivers a spray pattern optimized to cover shadow areas. It thereby guarantees 100 cleaning coverage regardless of your specific tank design, while a revolutionary built-in adjustment function makes installation and operation effective and easy.

PlusClean® is available with a pneumatic driven option combined with alpha level think top for intelligent control. It also comes in an ultra-pure version with the comprehensive Alfa Laval Q-doc documentation package.

With 100 cleaning coverage, the alpha level PlusClean® cleaning nozzle eliminates risk while reducing water and cleaning media consumption. It's easy to install, simple to use, and delivers rapid payback time.

For more information, contact:

Ives Equipment

https://ivesequipment.com

(877) 768-1600 

The UE 12 Series - SIL 2, 316 SS, Pressure, Differential Pressure & Temperature Switches

The United Electric 12 Series hazardous location switches are excellent for use in demanding settings where space is limited. In most models, a snap-action Belleville spring assembly offers vibration resistance and extended switch life. In addition, the 316 stainless steel shell and hermetically sealed switch provide rugged environmental protection. 

UE 12 SERIES FEATURES

• UL, cUL, ATEX and IECEx approved for Div. 1 or Zone 1 hazardous locations; CE compliant
• Dual seal compliant to ANSI/ISA 12.27.01 & NEC 501.17
• Many models compliant to NACE MR0175.
• Snap-acting Belleville spring for long life, vibration resistance and stability
• Optional Hastelloy and Monel  sensor material for corrosive media
• Mounting bracket available for retrofit applications
• 72" leadwires
• 3-year warranty

For more information, contact Ives Equipment.
877-768-1600
https://ivesequipment.com

An Advanced, Single Housing, All-In-One Gas Detection System

SensAlarm Plus is a complete, turn-key gas detection system preassembled in one housing. The system comes standard with strobe lights, horns, high-visibility four-digit LED display, and LCD display/interface. At the heart of the SensAlarm Plus is an advanced Intelligent Sensor platform with non-volatile memory for all critical application variables and sensor data. A non-intrusive user interface enables easy operator customization and a quick review of sensor life parameters, TWA (Time Weighted Average) alarms, calibration data, and other information with date and time recording.

The SensAlarm Plus sensor head is universal in that it accepts all Sensidyne Plus sensors. Monitoring in high, low, or adjacent locations is simplified by remote mounting the sensor head using a four-conductor cable. With a sensor connected, the automatic uploading of variables, alarm values, and sensor information dramatically simplifies installation and maintenance. Transportable calibration allows sensor calibration at the installation location or in a workshop, then hot-swapping the sensor in the field.

SensAlarm Plus is the ideal gas monitoring solution for many applications. Most laboratories, gas cylinder storage facilities, industrial work areas where gases are present, control room protection or other applications where users benefit from a packaged gas detection system are common areas that need SensAlarm Plus.

DOWNLOAD THE SENSALARM PLUS DATA SHEET FROM THIS IVES EQUIPMENT WEB PAGE

For more information about Sensidyne Fixed Gas Detection products, contact Ives Equipment. Call them at 877-768-1600 or visit their website at https://ivesequipment.com.

The MIcroMod 353 RetroPAK - An Alternative for Siemens 353 and Moore 352 Users

 

The 353 RetroPAK is the best choice on the market to update your controllers with the least disruption to your plant operation.

The Siemens 353 and Moore 352 controllers have been extremely popular, but they are no longer manufactured or supported. MicroMod has a cost-effective migration solution offering up-to-date technology that will be available for years to come. We understand the dilemmas faced by companies that need to ahead and be able to support their control systems without abandoning their control philosophy or incurring large up-front installation costs.

The 353 RetroPAK provides the same process control functions as the Moore 352 and Siemens 353 controllers. Factory templates (in the Siemens 353 FCO style) that can be loaded from the front keypad along with a function block library in Windows configuration software mean less time spent learning new programs and re-engineering your system. The RetroPAK suits the same panel cutout, has the same simple I / O add-on, and offers dual communication networks.

DOWNLOAD THE 353 RETROPAK BROCHURE HERE

For more information about the MicroMod 353 RetroPAK, contact Ives Equipment. Call them at (877) 768-1600 or visit their website at https://ivesequipment.com.

Lead-Free Valves from ASCO and Ives Equipment

Lead is extremely toxic. Tight US safety regulations affect manufacturers of products such as drinking water fountains, reverse osmosis systems, coffee machines. and commercial kitchen equipment. A lead-free system cannot contain soldering flux with greater than 0.2% lead content, or more than a weighted average of 0.25% lead in the wetted surfaces of pipes, pipe fittings, plumbing fittings, and fixtures. Under the law, lead free is a cumulative concept.  In response, Ives Equipment and ASCO have coordinated to provide a range of valve choices that meet the new regulations, are NSF certified, and come in the industry’s broadest range of characteristics in terms of pipe size, pressure or temperature ratings, and flow coefficients.

For more information visit https://ivesequipment.com/leadfree.

Industrial Control Systems (ICS) Face New Ransomware Concern

Dragos is a company that provides industrial asset identification, threat detection, and response to help organizations stay ahead of adversaries. According to Dragos intelligence and threat reports, it appears that a segment of code called Snake or EKANS, first recognized in December, 2019, has been designed as ransomware to target Windows systems used in industrial control systems (ICS). 

Ransomware is malicious software that will lock up data on a computer’s drive, then travel across the network and encrypt other data. The saboteurs will then demand payment in exchange for releasing the data. Whereas industrial control system machines are high-value targets (healthcare is the other high-value target) EKANS is unusual in that the malicious code uses targeted intelligence for control systems to first encrypt the root data (files are encrypted and renamed with random 5-character extension) and then ruin the software processes and hold the data hostage.

EKANS targeted companies and are sent a ransom note with the instruction to pay the ransom in cryptocurrency. There is an email address provided for contact/replies.

Manufacturing plants, power grids, and industrial concerns (such as oil refineries) are all targets of this malicious malware.

Another feature of the EKANS ransomware is it is programed to terminate sixty-four (64) various processes on computers – most of which are ICS specific.  This suggests the possibility that the EKANS may also share features similar to the Megacortex ransomware, which first appeared in early 2019.  Megacortex relies on a manual method of deployment rather than self propagation ransomware deployment.

It is still unknown whether the EKANS ransomware originated from state-sponsored hackers or via real cybercriminals trying to profit from industrial control system owners. It appears that it may be the latter, based on the most recent analysis of the nature of the ransomware – analysis by Dragos researchers.

It is wise to raise awareness with among everyone who touches your systems and it would be prudent to have someone within your organization (or a consultant) tasked with keeping data security protections current.  In addition, it is crucial to have ICS organizations rethink their cybersecurity leadership philosophy. In many organizations, the evangelists for cybersecurity are not equipped to exert influence in the company.  Cybersecurity is still treated as a back-office job, but it needs to be treated as priority by the organizational leaders.

Dragos adversary hunters recommend keeping ICS systems segmented from the rest of the network. In this way, if just one Window machine is infected, the virus can’t mobilize to the systems that control the infrastructure. In addition, standard practices such as backups, stored offline, and including the last known good configuration data will somewhat reduce the liability of slow recovery. Guardrails such as improved access and mechanisms for authentication will also help to reduce the risk of these increasingly troubling attacks on ICS systems.

More detailed information can be accessed here:
https://dragos.com/blog/industry-news/ekans-ransomware-and-ics-operations.

Article courtesy of:
Ives Equipment
www.ivesequipment.com
(877) 768-1600

Don't Risk Equipment or Safety: Freeze Protect Your Plant Now

Don't let this happen at your plant.

Winter is here in its full glory. Plant engineers and plant maintenance have to pay special care in preventing freezing in pipelines, tanks, Vessels, conveyors, and impulse lines.  The cold temperatures in the Mid-Atlantic can often damage or destroy process equipment and it's valuable contents. Most commonly, pipes, instrumentation, and valves are the vulnerable items affected by the sudden drop in temperatures, causing devastating consequences, including costly downtime and unplanned outages. But there's also safety issues to be considered with snow and ice build up, so attention must be paid to snow and ice melting.

Main Categories for Industrial Heat Tracing

• Industrial Pipe Tracing Cable
• Industrial Tank and Vessel Heating
• Industrial Snow Melting
• Industrial Roof Gutter Deicing

Responsible facility management includes protecting buildings and equipment against freeze damage. There are many items in any given manufacturing plant to protect, including piping systems, process instrumentation, holding tanks, transfer vessels, and valves. For each of these items, there's a good freeze protection solution to be applied. Here are some of the more common heat tracing products used in these applications.

Self-regulating Heat Tracing Cable

These self-regulating, cut-to-length cables are normally installed in commercial and light industrial applications, to maintain pipe temperature and/or prevent freezing. These heating cables are available in 120 and 240 voltages and are designed for use in ordinary or hazardous locations (with proper selections and application). Typical applications for this product are freeze protection and low watt density process temperature systems such as product pipelines, fire protection, process water and dust suppression systems.

Constant Wattage Heat Tracing Cable

Constant wattage heater cable is ideal for use in maintaining fluid flow under low ambient conditions. The product is used for freeze protection and process temperature maintenance systems such as product pipelines, process water, dust suppression systems, lube oil and condensate return.

MI (Mineral Insulated) Cable

MI Cable is a metal sheathed cable that uses a metallic conductor as the heating element. It is custom designed and fabricated for specific applications. MI Cable is a high performance, industrial grade heat tracing cable used for applications requiring high temperature exposure, immunity to stress corrosion, high maintain temperature, under tank heating (cryogenic tanks), high power output, constant power output over entire, rugged cable construction heater length, and extended heater life.

It is critical to consider the specific application requirements for any heat tracing application. The following checklist always needs to be clearly understood:

• The mass and material of the item being traced
• Insulation availability - type and thickness
• Temperature to be maintained
• Minimum ambient temperature
• Minimum start-up temperature
• Available supply voltage
• The chemical environment - expose
• Maximum intermittent exposure temperature
• Electrical area classification

Always share your heat tracing requirements and challenges with a process heating specialist. There are many options and product variants from which to choose. A consultation with an expert can help direct you to the safest, most efficient, and most cost effective solution.

The Sensidyne SensAir CMB Poison Resistant Catalytic Bead Gas Detector

SensAir CMB, by leading gas detection equipment manufacturer Sensidyne, is an industrial grade, cost effective, fixed point gas detector with a highly poison resistant catalytic bead sensor.

The SensAir Gas Detector is a single-point device capable of detecting the presence of various gases. The detector detects gas in either ppm, %Volume or %LEL concentrations. The standard detector consists of a display board and a power supply board, housed in a heavy-duty enclosure, a sensor specifically designed to detect Oxygen, Toxic or Combustible gases, and optionally, a relay/communication board. A complete monitoring system consists of the detector and a separate read-out device & power supply capable of monitoring a 4-20 mA output and supplying 24 VDC power. There are versions of the detector for hazardous and non-hazardous areas.

SenseAir CMB Features

• Combustible, Toxic, and Oxygen Versions Available
• U.S./Canada/IECEx/ATEX Hazardous Area Approved
• Rugged, Industrial, Cost Effective Design Meets a Wide Range of Application and Project Requirements
• Robust, Fast Responding Sensors
• Bright LED Display Model or Lower Cost Blind Model
• Non-Intrusive Zero & Span Adjustments
• Easy Installation and Maintenance, Ideal for Retrofit or New Applications
• 3-wire Design with 4-20mA Output, Options for Modbus or BACnet—Both include 3 Additional Relays
• Horizontal or Vertical Installation
• Remote Combustible Sensor Option
• Field Replaceable Sensor

For more information, contact Ives Equipment. Call Ives at (877) 768-1600 or visit their web site at https://ivesequipment.com.

White Paper: Predicting Cavitation Damage in Control Valves

Cavitation can occur in control valves handling fluids, causing loud noise as well as damaging valve components and ultimately leading to additional costs in process plants. A standardized procedure to evaluate the destructiveness of cavitation-induced still does not exist whereas noise emission can reliably be predicted with the international EN 60534-8-4 standard. This white paper, courtesy of Samson Controls, describes a method to solve this problem by evaluating structure-borne noise in the ultrasonic range.

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DOWNLOAD THE WHITE PAPER HERE

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For more information on the application of control valves, contact Ives Equipment. Call (877) 768-1600 or visit https://ivesequipment.com.