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Monthly Preview: December 2007

Here's a look at what will soon be featured on ChemicalProcessing.com. Be sure to check back for the latest articles, news and columns before you see it in print.

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Maintenance and Operations

Take equipment diagnostics to a new level
By Todd Anderson, Emerson Process Management

Advances in performance monitoring technology can provide insights on the causes of problems hard to pinpoint otherwise, and so can lead to improved maintenance practices and better process efficiency.

Energy Saver

Inertia has its attractions
By Christopher Russell, energy columnist

"Do nothing" may be a valid way of dealing with energy costs. It avoids the need for approvals for projects and the risk of their failure and for forcing people to change behaviors and procedures.

Regulatory Compliance

Manufacturers face grave concerns
By Lynn Bergeson, regulatory columnist

Regulations, particularly in the European Union, put responsibility for handling some materials and goods at the end of their useful lives on their manufacturers. The EU moves will have broader impact.

Making it work

Bellows stand up to paint solvents
By Steve Piacsek, A & A Manufacturing

Bellows for shaft seals of mills to blend ingredients for solvent-based paints failed after only a shot time exposed to the steamy sovlent-laden vapor. Replacing them with bellows made of PTFE has provided long service life.

Plant InSites

A single degree can count
By Andrew Sloley, troubleshooting columnist

Sometimes a seemingly minor change has major economic consequences. Using a slightly different temperature range led to a significant savings in the cost of pipe insulation at one plant.