This Week's Top Stories
Select The Right Gas Delivery System
Pay particular attention to pipe size and materials compatibility. Read more...
Related reading you may enjoy:
No Data, No Market: Achieving REACH Compliance Webcast
Process manufacturers face a new regulation – REACH. This on-demand Webcast addresses best practices for complying with REACH. Read more...
Case Study: Migration Boosts Batch Operations
New control system improves consistency and halves batch creation time. Read more...
Related reading you may enjoy:
Utility Systems: Don't Rely on Pot Luck
Paying attention to the condensate system can keep you out of hot water. Read more...
Related reading you may enjoy:
Energy Saver: Don’t Get Heated Up by a Hot Stack
Consider several projects to lower temperatures and recover energy. Read more...
Related reading you may enjoy:
Quick Poll: Safety Instrumented Systems
Take our quick, anonymous survey. Read more...
What Your Peers Are Reading
- Process Puzzler: Avoid Another Fatal AccidentReaders consider the causes of a deadly fire.
- Compressed Air Systems: The Secret is in the PipeThere’s no such thing as too large a compressed air line. A common error in compressed air systems is line sizes too small for the desired air flow.
- 2009 Readers' Choice Awards: Who Rises to the Call?Readers reveal which technology providers they consider the leaders.
- Comical Processing: You Write The Cartoon CaptionChemical Processing introduces "Comical Processing," featuring drawings by award-winning cartoonist Jerry King.
- Case Study: Migration Boosts Batch OperationsNew control system improves consistency and halves batch creation time.
Just Posted
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Condition Monitoring Matures
Sheila Kennedy, contributing editor for Plant Services, says it's a new world for the maintenance profession.
Cooling Tower Gains From Simplified Design
Motor and drive system reduces complexity, increases efficiency.
Industry News More »
Vendor News More »
Ask the Experts More »
New Products
Transfer Cars Improve Pallet Handling
Differential Pressure Gauge Performs In Harsh Media Applications
Mini Wireless Connectors Transmit Temperature Readings
Compressed Air System Reduces Energy Costs
Fluid Storage And Dispensing System Handles Corrosive Chemicals
Energy Management Solution Helps Reduce GHG
ANSI Pump Replacement Reduces Energy Costs
Asset Management Software Manages Machine Health
Critical Topics
Reducing energy consumption and your plant's environmental impact is a hot topic. Creative thinking in your energy efficiency projects will give you the competitive edge during these tough times.
Drive up energy efficiency
The constant-speed approach to AC motors made a lot of sense when energy was cheap and drives technology was in its infancy. With their latest advances, adjustable speed drives can provide one of the best energy efficiency options for a plant.
Consider Three Ways to Energy Efficiency
Now’s the time to make radical changes in funding energy projects
It’s time for a design check
Pay closer attention to energy efficiency and impose standards.
Special Report: Energy Efficiency
Reducing energy consumption and your plant’s environmental impact is a hot topic. In this Special Report we take a look at the organizational obstacles to avoid, how to enroll your employees in the quest, and the steps you need to take in order to manage your energy costs. We also delve in to practical energy efficient applications such as recovering exhaust heat in air conditioned facilities and the use of carbon synchronous belts.
Energy Savings Pick up Steam
More attention to steam systems and trap monitoring provides big benefits. At most chemical plants, plant management and operators face increasing pressures to improve the energy efficiency of their processes, so they should see how they can save on steam.
You can't manage what you can't measure. And what you don't measure will never improve. Enter plant optimization. Gathering data to improve operations offers a competitive advantage.
Avoid Costly Design Mistakes
Common errors keep plants from getting the most reliable and suitable vessels
Avoid costly materials mistakes
Common oversights keep plants from getting the most reliable and suitable vessels.
Avoid costly fabrication mistakes
Common oversights keep plants from getting the most reliable and suitable vessels
Pursue the perfect plant
Look into creating the “perfect plant” by integrating product and operational management into your environment. This provides the ability to respond faster and minimize impact to the business and bottom line, driving increased yields, asset utilization and order fulfillment.
Pilot plants: destined for development
Pilot plants are on the verge of an unprecedented evolution. Read about the 10 factors that'll impact the design, construction and operation of these next-generation units.
The chemical industry is starting to unwrap the potential benefits of “going green."
Renewable Feedstocks are in the Bag
Chemical firms show growing interest in bio-based production.
Environmental Protection
Environmental Protection by Dave Russell, president, Global Environmental Operations Inc.
Chemical industry sees green
Developments target economics, not just environmental benefits. While pollution prevention was the original goal of green chemistry, today’s efforts promise to have a substantial economic impact.
Special Report: Chemical Industry Sees Green | Bio-Based Fuels and Feedstocks
For years the industry has been “talking green.” But what real strides have been made? Will a Presidential Executive Order compel the industry to speed up efforts to actually go green?
Defining "Green Chemicals"
As the Industrial Water Treatment Program Manager at the federal installation, I am interested in resorting to "green chemicals" in the chemically treating all the boilers, cooling towers and closed loop systems at this installation. Is there a clear definition of what constitutes "green chemicals?" Does that vary from state-to-state, region-to-region, and who has the final word on what is or isn't "green chemicals?"
Feedstock change is hot and poppin’
Corn, other renewable resources garner increasing interest and investment. Read here about the progress that is being made in discovering a new generation of feedstock.
Wastewater treatment is a critical process for chemical plants. Keeping on top of how to recycle and reuse will ensure you get the most of your water-treatment operations.
Act Before There’s Not a Drop to Drink
Ground water protection is the responsibility of everyone including the chemical industry. An energetic group of state and federal ground water agencies, industry, environmentalists and other stakeholders, however, has made it a key area of their focus. The Ground Water Protection Council (GWPC) is a nonprofit Section 501(c)(6) organization dedicated to promoting and ensuring the use of best management practices and “fair but effective” laws regarding comprehensive groundwater protection.
Expect More Water Regulation Everywhere
EPA gets tough on arsenic levels in drinking water
What’s on tap for water?
This increasingly precious resource is attracting more attention
Better water technology is on tap
The drought in many parts of the U.S. so far this summer points out the preciousness of water supplies. There’s greater demand for waste-minimization and recycle-and-reuse technologies as well as more awareness of utility usage and the impact of life-cycle costs on water-treatment operations. Here’s a look at new technologies that will help.
Optimize Water Use
Four major drivers are spurring increasing interest in optimizing water use.
Boosting worker performance benefits the bottom line. Understanding what operators need is critical to your site's success.
Operators Get More Help
Efforts aim to provide insights and tools to boost performance.
Fitting the Workplace to the Worker
Process Industry Control Rooms Would Be Designed a Whole Lot Differently if Air-Traffic Controllers Were Working in Them
Operator Performance Takes Center Stage
Industry/university alliance aims to address human factors in process control.
Help Your Operators
Automating procedures within control systems can serve to make your operators more effective and more consistent. With studies showing more than 40% of all plant incidents stemming from some form of human error, it makes sense to give automation a larger role in day-to-day operations.
An Alert Operator Is a Safe Operator
Maintaining a good work environment can contribute to a safer plant
More Topics:
- Automation & IT
- Compressors
- Control Systems
- Design & Simulation
- Distillation
- Drying
- Environmental, Health & Safety
- Filtration
- Fluid Handling
- Instrumentation
- Powder & Solids
- Pumps
- Reaction & Synthesis
- Reliability & Maintenance
- Security
- Separations Technology
- Software
- Utilities & Energy
- Valves
- Wireless
White Paper Library
- Automation & IT
- Design & Simulation
- Environmental, Health & Safety
- Fluid Handling
- Powder & Solids
- Reaction & Synthesis
- Reliability & Maintenance
- Security
- Separations Technology
- Utilities & Energy
Automation & IT
Benefits of State Based Control
State Based Control is a plant automation control design based on the principle that all process facilities operate in recognized, definable Process States that represent a variety of normal and abnormal conditions of the process. State Based Control, implemented with the latest developments in object-based technologies, delivers direct benefits to its adopters in a variety of Operational Excellence categories. It results in productivity increases, higher asset utilization of both people and process, automated responses and recovery for abnormal conditions and provides an environment for knowledge capture directly into the control design.
MES Harmonization in a Multi-Site, Multi-Country and Multi-Cultural Environment
Case Study of a Plant to Enterprise Solution
This white paper describes a case study of a real-life case harmonizing thirteen chemicals plants on one MES platform and bringing the plant floor at enterprise
level – the Plant to Enterprise initiative (P2E) . The chemical plants are located on seven different production sites in four European countries: The Netherlands,
Germany, Denmark and Sweden.
Design & Simulation
ChemicalProcessing Special Report: Pilot Plants
Read about the 10 factors that will impact the design, construction and operation of these next-generation pilot plant units.
Learn about new pilot plant development methods.
Understand the role operational guidance plays in successful pilot plant development.
Design and Rating Shell and Tube Heat Exchangers
This 30-page paper discusses the basic design, construction and performance of shell and tube heat exchangers.
Environmental, Health & Safety
Closed System Technology Drives the Trend Toward Safer, More Cost-Efficient Chemical Dispensing
In dozens of industries and in millions of applications around the world, dangerous chemicals are transferred from their original shipping containers into smaller jugs or buckets or applied to other end-use processes. Historically, the predominant dispensing method in many of these applications has been through an open system where the liquid is poured out of the container. With a poured system, the container is often flipped on its side and the liquid is poured into a secondary container. The user then just carries the bucket to wherever it needs to go. A mental image of this technique quickly reveals its potential dangers and inefficiencies.
Dust Explosion Protection using Flameless Venting
This 18-page white paper explores a new option – flameless venting – which has recently been developed for dust explosions and is being actively marketed as an alternative to vent ducting.
Fluid Handling
Peristaltic Pumps: A Simple Solution for Abrasive and Corrosive Chemicals
Finding the right pump for metering abrasive and aggressive chemicals can be challenging. The pump of choice needs to withstand harsh chemicals, accurately meter, and be simple to maintain and operate. More and more process engineers are turning to peristaltic pumps to solve their pumping problems, reducing life cycle costs and driving gains in process efficiency.
Special Report -- Control With Flow
With changes in temperature, pressure, density and viscosity all affecting volumetric flowmeter measurement, how can continuous processors accurately measure the flow of fluids? Download this Special Report to find out how Coriolis flowmeters provide a direct mass measurement that is unaffected by changing process fluid characteristics – improving both accuracy and optimizing operations at your plant.
Powder & Solids
Chemical Processing Special Report: Conveyors
No matter what industry you’re in, chances are you use some form of conveying. Whether it be pneumatic, flexible screw, aeromechanical or other, different conveyors are required to handle different products. But which conveyor is best suited for your operation? Despite the fact that conveyors have been around for almost a hundred years, this question still baffles many industries. In order to choose the right conveyor for your operations, you need to consider your conveyor's use - production, processing, packaging, and you need to consider your business objectives - improve operations? reduce labor?
In this special report, we look at the different types of conveyors, discuss the use of tubular bag conveyors, and provide 10 tips to prevent a variety of common problems that could occur with pneumatic conveyors.
Dust Explosion Protection using Flameless Venting
This 18-page white paper explores a new option – flameless venting – which has recently been developed for dust explosions and is being actively marketed as an alternative to vent ducting.
Reaction & Synthesis
Properly Model and Control Batch Reactors
This paper covers key aspects for modeling and design of batch reactors, including: heat-up and cool-down performance, sensitivity analysis for reactor parameters, boil-up rate predictions, thermal stability under exothermic conditions, control system design and loop tuning parameters, condenser rating, and process emissions predictions.
Maximize Returns from Precious-Metal-Bearing Catalysts
Many catalytic reactions rely on platinum, palladium and other precious metal catalysts. When the activity of the catalyst declines to the point that it must be replaced, the used catalyst can be sent to a refiner to recover precious metal. This 8-page paper discusses the variouis factors that should be considered when using a refiner.
Reliability & Maintenance
Dust Explosion Protection using Flameless Venting
This 18-page white paper explores a new option – flameless venting – which has recently been developed for dust explosions and is being actively marketed as an alternative to vent ducting.
Security
IT Security for Process Control Using Siemens SIMATIC PCS 7
Ensuring the security of industrial control systems is hardly a new topic. The earliest users of modern control systems in power stations and chemical plants saw the need to protect access to vital control functions from unauthorized use. Similarly, in industries such as fine chemical or pharmaceutical where “the process is the product”, manufacturers have always sought to protect the secrets of their unique processes from the prying eyes of industrial spies. This white paper by ARC describes how the Siemens AG PCS7 Security Concept bundles key security measures in seveal specific areas to create a deep hierarchy of security known as “defense in depth”.
Separations Technology
A Review of Filter Press Basics and Issues
Filtration experts, over the years, have discussed filter presses and have indicated that soon they would be a thing of the past; the last filter press would be replaced by more modern equipment. This article discusses the perceived shortcomings of the filter press as well as the batch or continuous filtration alternatives to replace them.
Removing Liquid From Gas
Liquid entrainment in a gas stream can be a disturbance in many industrial processes. In natural-gas processing, higher-order hydrocarbons, water or impurities have to be separated from the main methane stream. Upstream of gas compressors, droplets that can damage the impellers, have to be removed. With the recently acquired Knitmesh technology and the strategic alliance with Shell Global Solutions, Sulzer Chemtech can supply a broad portfolio of advanced, tailor-made systems for gas/liquid separation to customers in all industries.
Utilities & Energy
Special Report: Energy Efficiency
Reducing energy consumption and your plant’s environmental impact is a hot topic. In this Special Report we take a look at the organizational obstacles to avoid, how to enroll your employees in the quest, and the steps you need to take in order to manage your energy costs. We also delve in to practical energy efficient applications such as recovering exhaust heat in air conditioned facilities and the use of carbon synchronous belts.
Microturbine Testing
Microturbines are increasingly being used at various consumer sites to generate 480 VAC, three-phase electrical power, typically in the range of 25 to 500 kW. They are relatively small, combustion-gas turbines that run on natural gas, hydrogen, propane, diesel fuel, landfill gas (methane), and even some bio-diesel fuels. The turbines come in two varieties, simple-cycle and recuperated-cycle. Simple-cycle turbines are about 15% efficient, compared to turbines with reliable recuperators (that is, no moving parts) that double efficiencies to nearly 33%. They reintroduce exhaust heat energy into the cycle instead of wasting it. Better yet, system efficiency can reach 85% with an integrated combined heating and power (ICHP) installation.
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Video & Audio
Rosenzweig's Ramblings February 2009: Convince A Child To Explore Engineering
American kids need more awareness of engineering careers -- and a better education.
Rosenzweig's Ramblings March 2009: Spend Slack Time Smartly
You finally may have a chance to focus on a variety of worthwhile projects.
Rosenzweig's Ramblings January 2009 : How Should Industry Tackle Threats?
New report promotes inherently safer technology for hazardous facilities.
Perspectives
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From the Editor
Getting the Right Total Isn’t Easy
Our vendor rankings account for numerous current and retired brands.
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Energy Saver
Energy Saver: Don’t Get Heated Up by a Hot Stack
Consider several projects to lower temperatures and recover energy.
-
Compliance Advisor
Anti-Terrorism Mandates Face Major Revision
Prospective legislation may put more emphasis on inherent safety.
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Field Notes
Take the Right Approach to Projects
Remember the real fun begins after approval.
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Plant InSites
Utility Systems: Don't Rely on Pot Luck
Paying attention to the condensate system can keep you out of hot water.
-
Process Puzzler
Process Puzzler: Avoid Another Fatal Accident
Readers consider the causes of a deadly fire.
Ask the Experts
We've assembled a roster of leading authorities in many fields to help you address technical issues. Pose a question or browse previous questions to find the answers you're looking for.
Recent Instrumentation and Control question...
Q:I am concerned with the role that is played by programming languages in process control. In the first course of my undergraduate study, we went through Visual Basic; our teacher was encouraging us to master it since it is of great importance in our specialty. Recently I found out, on Google, that most people prefer C/C++ to VB as far as engineering is concerned. According to your experience, which language best fits process control engineering, especially for someone interested to work for BP or Shell Oil Companies?
A: Click here to read the answer...Editors' Corner
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Solutions Centers
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Measure your performance against your peers and discover which functional areas you can improve. Includes manufacturing, supply chain, R&D, regulatory compliance (ie REACH), and customer management.
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Vital Resources
Quick Poll: Safety Instrumented Systems
Take our quick, anonymous survey.
No Data, No Market: Achieving REACH Compliance Webcast
Process manufacturers face a new regulation – REACH. This on-demand Webcast addresses best practices for complying with REACH.
ChemicalProcessing Special Report: Pilot Plants
Read about the 10 factors that will impact the design, construction and operation of these next-generation pilot plant units.
Learn about new pilot plant development methods.
Understand the role operational guidance plays in successful pilot plant development.
Peristaltic Pumps: A Simple Solution for Abrasive and Corrosive Chemicals
Finding the right pump for metering abrasive and aggressive chemicals can be challenging. The pump of choice needs to withstand harsh chemicals, accurately meter, and be simple to maintain and operate.
Chemical Processing Special Report: Conveyors
This special report looks at the different types of conveyors, discusses the use of tubular bag conveyors, and provides 10 tips to prevent a variety of common problems.
Special Report -- Control With Flow
With changes in temperature, pressure, density and viscosity all affecting volumetric flowmeter measurement, how can continuous processors accurately measure the flow of fluids? Download this Special Report to find out.
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