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ZoomLock MAX press-to-connect refrigerant fittings are changing the way HVACR professionals connect refrigerant lines. By using ZoomLock MAX, you, the HVACR technician can connect refrigerant lines in seconds, boosting efficiency while providing the safety and reliability you expect from Parker.
This post is the second in our series providing answers to the top FAQs on ZoomLock MAX fittings. The answers cover crimping, jaws, tools, and compliance.
Applications
ZoomLock MAX fittings are designed for the following applications:
Refrigeration
Air Conditioning
Heat Pump (Refrigeration Side)
Download the full list of FAQs in this handy guide and learn more about ZoomLock MAX.
Q: Where do I crimp ZoomLock MAX fittings?
A: Crimp with the jaw straddling directly over the O-ring section of the fitting, as in the image below.
Q: How many crimps can you complete on a complete battery charge?
A: That is tool dependent; consult the tool manufacturers owner’s manual.
Q: How do you know when to service the tool?A: That is tool dependent; consult the tool manufactures owner’s manual.
Q: What is the expected life of the jaws?A: ZoomLock MAX jaws are laser hardened and have a finite life expectancy. We encourage each customer to have the jaws and tools serviced and checked annually or every 10,000 crimps depending on which comes first.
Q: What tool manufacturers and models are ZoomLock MAX jaws compatible?A: Please refer to the Press Tool Compatibility table below.
A: Check jaws at the latest one year after the purchase or after 10,000 pressings (according to whichever occurs first) by an authorized Rothenberger testing center. Repeat these checks at the latest one year or another 10,000 pressings after the previous inspection. During jaw inspection, check the jaws for operating and functional safety and wear parts (e.g., springs). Functionally and operationally safe jaws are returned.
Q: Where can replacement batteries and chargers be purchased?A: That is tool dependent; check the tool manufacturer owner’s manual.
Q: Can you use ZoomLock MAX to crimp to aluminum, steel, or stainless steel?A: ZoomLock MAX is designed explicitly for copper to copper connections.
Q: What standards and codes is ZoomLock MAX compliant with, and what approvals does it hold?UL Listed: Refrigerant fitting SA7511.
UL Listed: Approved use for field and factory installations.
UL 109 - 7 Pull test is compliant.
UL 109 - 8 Vibration test is compliant.
UL 1963 - 79 Tests of Gaskets and Seals used in Refrigerant Systems compliant.
ISO 5149-2:2014, Refrigerating systems, and heat pumps - Safety and environmental requirements - Part 2: Design, construction, testing, marking and documentation, compliant.
ISO 5149-2 - 5.3.2.2.3 Strength pressure test is compliant.
ISO 14903 - 7.4 Tightness test is compliant.
ISO 14903 - 7.6 Pressure temperature vibration tests (PTV) compliant.
ISO 14903 - 7.8 Freezing test is compliant.
ASTM G85 -11 Standard Practice for Modified Salt Spray (Fog) Testing compliant.
ASHRAE 15 - 2016 Safety Standard for Refrigeration Systems compliant.
ASME B31.5 - 2016 Refrigeration Piping and Heat Transfer Components compliant.
2018, 2015 - 2012, 2009, and 2006 International Mechanical Code (IMC), certified ICC-ES, PMG-1440.
2018, 2015, 2012, 2009 and 2006 International Residential Code (IRC), certified ICC-ES, PMG-1440.
2018, 2015, 2012, 2009, and 2006 Uniform Mechanical Code (UMC), certified, ICC-ES, PMG-1440.
A: Yes, ZoomLock MAX is a press fitting system for use with hard, half-hard, or annealed copper tube conforming to EN12735-1 or ASTM-B280.
Q: What is the guarantee on ZoomLock MAX fittings?A: The product has a 10-year guarantee from the first date of purchase.
Q: What is the material used to make the O-ring?A: Hydrogenated Nitrile Butadiene Rubber (HNBR).
Q: What is the expected life of the O-ring in the system?A: The expected life of the O-ring, if used within the product specifications for temperature and pressure, is at least 25 years. The product has a 10-year guarantee from the first date of purchase.
Q: Are there any storage issues, including where the fittings are stored in vehicles and exposed to extremes of high or low temperature?A: No, the product is not subject to degradation under normal storage conditions, provided it is kept in original packaging and not exposed to direct sunlight for long periods.
The time-saving solution for HVACR technicians and contractors
ZoomLock MAX technology provides a leak-proof connection, eliminating brazing, flames, fire spotters, or risks from installing traditional HVACR fittings. Now, HVACR technicians and contractors can install piping in seconds with NO torch, NO hot work permits, and NO fire safety equipment.
Ready to learn more? Visit the ZoomLock MAX website to download the full FAQs sheet, schedule a demo, watch it in action, get training support, locate a distributor, and get started today!
Article contributed by Chris Reeves, product manager, Contaminant Control Products, Sporlan Division of Parker Hannifin. For more information on Parker Sporlan products please visit our website.
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ZoomLock MAX Press-to-Connect Refrigerant Fittings FAQs–Part 1
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As advanced manufacturing factories gain importance, manufacturers must prioritize what benefits and supporting programs will prepare their factories to best meet the evolving needs of their customers.
The benefits of smart manufacturing facilities are immense.
Successful factories need a shared vision of achievable goals throughout the organization. They align their technology assets to benefit strategic business functions for OEM assembly, testing, and aftermarket needs. They collect and use the right data sets to support wise decision making that maintains high product quality and productivity. They educate the entire organization on what is possible.
At Parker Aerospace’s Hydraulic Systems Division (HSD), factories of the future begin with the design of their products, and the components they purchase to manufacture products. Products strengthened by big data not only help manufacture, process, and validate new products, but also track, troubleshoot, and maximize the entire life cycles of products.
Within HSD, Parker customers range from large aircraft OEMs to small businesses making one-of-a-kind machines. Meeting many types of progressive manufacturing objectives from customers means starting with a clean sheet of paper and re-imaging pretty much everything about the HSD factory and operations in Kalamazoo, MI.
Priorities at the HSD headquarters included accelerating the velocity of products through the facility through equipment optimization. With purchases of new, universal hydraulic test stands, the Kalamazoo facility will go from 83 tests stands to less than 40. The reduction in test stand configurations is changing from more than 70 down to just 16.
The new test stands are strategically deployed for optimum operational efficiency. They require less service than previous equipment and ease operator training burdens. In multiple cases, a single test stand that performs multiple tests replaces multiple tests stands. All common stands are now capable of running all part numbers.
Test stand configurations The reduction in test stand configurations went from more than 70 down to just 16. The new test stand configurations include:
Logistically, HSD products now move on a simplified, linear path through the Kalamazoo factory, which streamlines processing instead of bouncing products from corner to corner multiple times before they leave the building. Faster throughput speeds Parker’s ability to respond to customer needs. Overall, the HSD facility will reduce required floor space by 10,000 square feet. Fewer machines taking up less floor space also gives this HSD factory the flexibility to reconfigure the overall floor plan in the future and continually improve the flow of products through the plant to further increase efficiency.
Big data
The collection and use of data at many additional points in a product’s lifecycle are also improving Parker’s ability to meet and exceed increasing customer expectations. New types of data are collected before the product goes out the door, thereby establishing a digital “fingerprint” for each product.
“We integrate product data collected during manufacturing and acceptance testing into our new test stands, so when a product leaves our factory, we have a baseline ... If a pump were to come back from the field, we don’t have to go digging through paperwork to compare test and performance metrics. The product itself tells us its history via a cloud-based data storage and access.”
— Chad Vliek, engineering director, Hydraulic Systems Division
In aerospace applications, for example, Parker monitors parameters like pump temperatures and pressures to help predict when aircraft operators are likely to see a failure on an aircraft. Working in concert with Parker’s on-board predictive analytics, we can significantly reduce the operator’s unscheduled maintenance and dispatch interruptions. “When we connect a product to a new test stand and have all the data, it’s like a doctor listening to a heartbeat,” says Vliek. “It allows us to look inside, compare the data to standards, and diagnose much more quickly.”
Parker’s new test stands allow dynamic pump data to be saved from the test stands, creating a profile for the individual pump that can be referenced over time. When a component returns from the field, the saved test data can be referenced for comparison. The component-specific data also allows for insight into the overall part family or from changes to manufacturing processes.
Understanding what fails, why, and when, reduces needed inventory and the time it takes to return a customer’s product to service. Documenting big data also supports Parker Quality systems like AS9100 for aerospace and ISO 14001 for environmental compliance, enabling real-time statistical process control and continuous improvements on future products.
Becoming increasingly data-driven is linked to cost savings, quality improvements, and improved customer satisfaction. The proper collection, use, and management of data has always been part of the culture within Parker Hannifin. Today, we are working to integrate our digitized designs, operations, and quality inspections to provide a comprehensive dataset for each product we manufacture.
In recent years Parker has implemented a Likely to Recommend (LTR) process, also known as a “net promoter score,” across the organization to receive timely feedback from customers. The LTR process has been applied to manual and digital transactions, customers looking up specific support information online, requesting a general quote, and many other touchpoints across all Parker divisions. The sea of data provided gives valuable insight for analysts to understand and prioritize how to continuously improve the customer experience.
Change can be disruptive. So before change began at Parker’s HSD factory in Kalamazoo, the company held numerous Kaizen events to integrate “lean,” safety, and training considerations into the transformation process.
“We took equipment operators with us when evaluating new test stands,” explains Vliek. “We asked for their input and worked collaboratively.” Involving employees at this early stage created excitement for the new facility and helped people embrace the program.
Nearly every employee had opportunities for input. Some produced “value stream” maps. Others used PVC pipe and cardboard to simulate the new machines and create their assembly line of the future. By demonstrating the new operational flow through the factory, they improved assembly and testing processes.
Training employees on how to operate new test stands resulted in the largest benefit to HSD. Previously, Parker had to train each employee on 10 to 15 stands. Now, each employee becomes an expert in the operation of a single test stand. This one change will result in reducing employee’s test stand training time by 80 to 90 percent.
Worker safety also improved by moving to our universal test stands. Unlike old test stands, new test stands utilize full lockouts during operation and maintenance. Locked glass doors create a physical barrier to keep employees safe. Noise output is also being reduced.
With fewer, more efficient machines, HSD also expects to see reductions in energy usage and cost.
In some cases, HSD automated tasks with simple robots to improve safety (e.g., pressurization process). Other “dirty, dull, or dangerous” tasks are performed by “cobots,” to remove tedious and repetitive motion activities that lead to carpal tunnel and other medical/health issues. These and other improvements move the factory closer to our zero accidents and zero-defect goals.
Looking ahead, Parker will evaluate using vision systems for inspecting products and other automated equipment for aiding assembly. “Our quality inspections begin with materials received before we begin production,” says Vliek. “This technology and future investments will help us identify potential issues earlier.”
One such sub-tier product is steel barrels for Parker’s large 5,000 psi pumps. Parker has recently invested significant capital in advanced machinery to produce the steel barrels and another machine to apply bronze plating to the barrels. Maintaining barrel manufacturing and plating capabilities in-house as a core competency ensures our differentiated products remain competitive and of the highest quality.
HSD customers expect quality products. Investing in equipment, people, and process improvements reduces the opportunity for product variability. Using big data to prioritize improvement initiatives creates maximum quality and the agility to go beyond today’s expectations and achieve what is possible tomorrow.
This article was contributed by Matt Webster (left), business unit manager, and Chad Vliek (right), division engineering manager, at Parker Aerospace’s Hydraulic Systems Division.
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Many industries are now being required to drastically reduce carbon emissions as a consequence of rising global temperatures, and the automotive industry in particular is a focus of much regulatory pressure.
Parker helps guarantee performance for vehicle electrification
Fundamental to the need for original equipment manufacturers to meet the rigorous safety requirements of an entirely new generation of electric vehicles is the ability to implement repeatable quality testing using the most advanced technology in test rigs.
The Electric Vehicle (EV) market now needs specially-adapted high-speed motors for test benches that will offer sufficient speed, power and acceleration to meet the tough qualification process for electric engines, pumps and powertrain transmissions. Over the past few years, Parker has received numerous requests for test rig motor speeds above 22,000 rpm, with torque levels above 400 Nm and high dynamic performance. This has led Parker to develop a new high-speed MGVA motor to extend the MGV series of brushless synchronous servomotors with, which features water cooling and electromagnetic optimisation to offer increased service lifetimes, reduced maintenance and optimum performance to meet market expectations.
Test stands don't just require expertise in high-speed motors
Typically, any high-speed application will require a specialist integrator who will design the test rig system, looking for the right combination of products that will endure the rigours of the test campaign. This expert will need to decide on all the various mechanical factors of the system, such as ensuring the correct dimensions and rigidity of the test bench chassis to avoid resonance-relation vibration, choosing the best type of coupling according to the line shaft, speed, torque and acceleration, and ensuring that the temperature is controlled to avoid failure.
After this is complete, the specialist integrator will need to find an appropriate drive solution for controlling the MVGA servomotor, such as the Parker A30 drive. Above nominal speeds, the permanent magnet AC motor will need to be controlled under a ‘field weakening’ mode to protect the rig from overvoltage in case the power supply goes down.
A turnkey cabinet will then need to be built to enclose the rig. The cabinet should provide overvoltage protection and a four-quadrant active front end (AFE) solution if necessary, depending on the particulars of the test cycle. To complete the project, a water chiller is then installed for precision cooling.
Parker can provide custom solutions tailored to meet even the most challenging technical specifications. The expertise of our technology-focused engineering team allows the OEM to decide how much or how little support they need. Parker’s extensive portfolio, which includes motors, drives, controllers, HMIs, actuators and gearheads ensure the right combination of application-compatible products will be selected every time.
The high-speed electric vehicle test bench plays a vital role towards ensuring the safety and performance of vehicle electrification, which in turn will allow us all to enjoy cleaner air free of fine particles in the future.
Article contributed by Jean-Philippe Olry, application engineer industrial market, Electromechanical & Drives Division Europe, Parker Hannifin Corporation.
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The advent of new and advanced technology has revolutionized the space industry, ushering in a new era of innovation and change brought by private space companies.
Parker Chomerics was recently honored by one customer for its engineering accomplishments in the development and application of its EMI shielding and thermal interface materials for challenging applications in private aerospace.
Private space flight companies have increased over the last few decades as more and more government-run agencies are now depending on these private companies to provide technology and engineering support for future space missions.
Getting more companies involved in space missions will “lower the cost and lower the risk” of doing business in outer space, said former NASA chief financial officer Jeff DeWit.
Many companies who have extensive resources and those who have been in the aerospace market for decades are now looking to these relative startups for their new, innovative approach to space technology development.
“Our technology portfolio and material science know-how gives Parker Chomerics a unique advantage,” says aerospace & defense market specialist Sierra Eiden. “We’ve been working hand-in-hand with the established aerospace and defense players for decades, and this experience allows us to bring our knowledge and expertise to the private space startups as well.”
Parker Chomerics has helped to address the emerging EMI shielding and thermal interface material needs of the private aerospace industry, while simultaneously aligning with large scale manufacturing protocols and design.
In one private aerospace application, the customer chose the one-part Parker Chomerics THERM-A-GAPTM GEL 37 dispensable thermal gel because of its unique combination of both a high thermal conductivity, at 3.7 W/m-K, and 30 g/min flow rate, coupled with its consistent and repeatable dispensing compared to leading products in the market today.
This design for repeatable dispensing helps to “minimize batch-to-batch flow rate variations which increases efficiency and reduces downtime during the manufacturing process,” says Parker Chomerics thermal product line manager Callie King. "And it's particularly suited for spaceflight due to its lower specific gravity compared to other thermal interface materials."
THERM-A-GAP GEL 37 also has passed 1,000 hours of gap stability testing and more than 1,000 hours of thermal cycling testing without any material cracking or degradation in thermal conductivity.
Parker Chomerics regularly tests outgassing of its materials to the industry standard test ASTM E595, developed by NASA to screen low outgassing materials for use in space. THERM-A-GAP GEL 37 registers 0.18% TML and 0.07% CVCM, meeting these low outgassing standards.
The team of application engineers at Parker Chomerics is ready to assist and help with design and technical questions for your space applications. Contact us now to get started.
This blog was contributed by Jarrod Cohen, marketing communications manager, Parker Chomerics.
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As well as pharmaceutical production based on complex organic molecules, manufacturing of advanced biologic drugs and vaccines must ensure that in-process contamination risks are mitigated as effectively as possible. Tailored polymer-based single-use fluid management solutions offer a range of significant safety and efficiency benefits over conventional glass- or steel-based multi-use systems specifically to biopharma manufacturers.
In addition to safety aspects, biopharma manufacturers are particularly challenged to achieve cost efficiencies in a wider variety of laboratory settings and production scenarios, i.e. from very small to medium to larger scales, depending on the type of vaccine or drug and scope of therapeutic application. Another key challenge is the prevention of costly losses of these complex and typically high-value products due to in-process leakage or contamination. Last but not least, vaccine manufacturers may have to quickly and efficiently ramp up their production volumes in response to suddenly emerging increases in demand. Conversely, processes must allow for equally easy down-scaling when demand drops.
The utilization of customized, fully scalable polymer-based single-use fluid management systems yields major safety, cost efficiency and flexibility/scalability benefits and thus is highly suitable for meeting all of the above challenges.
Identifying and maximizing potential
Drawing on many years of experience in the field of polymer materials and clean room production as well as extensive knowledge of biopharmaceutical processes and validation procedures, Parker Prädifa assists in identifying and maximizing the potential applications of single-use systems in laboratory and production environments.
The available solutions range from standardized TriClamp sanitary gaskets to highly customized solutions. They are based on a cost-effective open architecture and manufactured from approved TPE and LSR materials using state-of-the-art proprietary overmolding technology.
From product design to the final solution
The support by a specialized team of industry experts starts with product design and culminates in a final, fully scalable and ready-to-use solution ensuring that all regulatory and safety requirements are met. Every single-use solution is precisely tailored to the existing, validated production framework and provides significant overall system cost reduction potential.
Manufacturing, assembly and packaging processes in certified clean rooms are a basic prerequisite for serving pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical customers. In Europe, Parker Prädifa operates two clean room production facilities: one in Sadska (Czech Republic) certified according to ISO 14464 Class 7 and one in Pleidelsheim (Germany) certified according to ISO 14464 Class 8.
Additional information:
Posted by Dr. Heinz-Christian Rost, market unit manager life sciences, Engineered Materials Group Europe, Prädifa Technology Division
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Today, planters typically drive tractor pressure to high-pressure standby, generating excess heat and reducing fuel efficiency when tractor remotes are used to power fans, compressors and fertilizer pumps. Hydraulic downforce systems can also require high pressure at low flow driving the tractor to maximum pressure.
Multiple planter systems are typically controlled using the main tractor directional valve. The tractor pump usually operates at max pressure during planting creating:
By using a dedicated pressure-compensated pump driven by the tractor’s PTO to power the planter hydraulic downforce system, the tendency for the tractor pump to operate at high-pressure standby is reduced, thereby reducing a major contributor to excess heating and poor fuel consumption. Pump should be low displacement, sized to handle downforce flow needs. Pump also provides supply pressure to operate the Power Beyond pump.
The pump has a secondary function by providing a pressure source for a proportional pressure control valve which can be intelligently controlled via the tractor power beyond load dense port.
Intelligently controlled tractor pump through power beyond
By intelligently controlling a tractor pump by using the tractors power beyond option, the planter has complete control of the pump providing freedom to design and control the planter as desired. Pressure sensors at the fan and fertilizers functions allow for intelligent electric load sense, removing the need for additional hoses.
By separating the hydraulic downforce from the other planter functions, the tractor and planter power usage is optimized, reducing heat and therefore improving overall efficiency and component life. By controlling the tractor pump directly the planter is free to control the fan, fertilizer, and other accessory functions more intelligently.
Parker's extensive knowledge of the agriculture industry and understanding of the challenges farmers face help to shape integrated products and services that simplify installation and equipment service, reduce noise and drive performance. Doing so enables farmers to improve efficiency, reduce operating costs and comply with industry regulations, so they can focus on their critical role in our society.
The P1M-28 is a low displacement pump that is ideal for providing only the flow needed for downforce systems at the pressure required. The P1M Series delivers higher speeds and efficiency that increases machine productivity, reduces costs, and extends pump life in a robust, compact envelope.
Parker’s EPR series of valves is an ideal valve choice when Intelligently controlling load sense systems for hydraulic devices up to 285 bar (4,000 psi).
The EPR valve’s market-leading performance features the capability to handle flow rates up to 60 lpm (15 gpm) and can control pressures as high as 285 bar (4,000 psi). For systems with pressures less than 70 bar (1,000 psi), a slip-in style is available, otherwise a threaded screw-in style connection is available for systems with pressure in excess of 70 bar (1,000 psi), making the EPR a versatile addition for numerous applications.
The Parker Global Mobile Systems engineering team and Hydraulic Pump and Power Systems Division's application engineering experts are available to assist our customers in designing and implementing new systems to meet your application needs.
This article was contributed by David Schulte, P.E., senior systems engineer, Parker Hannifin Corporation.
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The food and beverage industry is the largest manufacturing sector to use chilled water systems. Applications within the industry are very diverse due to the wide range of product types and how they are produced. Applied to most food applications through to packaging, cooling is a way of speeding up the throughput of produce, as it reduces the time after cooking or baking.
The soft drinks industry requires cooling during the process of fizzy drink manufacturing. The fizz is provided by carbon dioxide, which is injected prior to packaging into bottles or cans. If the product is not chilled, the carbon dioxide will boil off, and frothing occurs; chilling the product is key to maintaining product integrity.
Precision cooling is a key factor in meeting some industry standards and ensuring consistently safe production methods are used. In addition to the regulatory requirements, precision cooling is also used to speed up the process, so that manufacturers can reduce lead-times and save money.
Chillers are prevalent in most types of food production. Broadly speaking, if a food is heated for cooking or baking, then it is likely to require cooling down prior to finishing and packaging. In some instances, it is necessary to cool specific ingredients during the process. In a bakery, the dough is typically mixed with cooled water, as this controls the yeast rising and allows consistency.
Some key methods of cooling product applied during production are:
Some typical illustrations below:
At the end of production, almost all food and drink needs to be packaged. Most companies install machines specifically designed to pack the produce using an automated system. Some of these machines are manufactured by global OEM companies and others are bespoke systems, designed and installed by specialists in the field.
Irrespective of their origins, most of these machines adopt the same principle whereby they hermetically seal the food within a container to preserve shelf life.
The sealing process uses a heated tool to apply the seal and chilled water to set and free the package from the tool. These machines can sometimes be supplied from a central cooling system, or more commonly, will have a dedicated process chiller located at the point of use.
Centralised cooling systems have some benefits but also limitations. If well designed, they can be more efficient than small, single, point of use chillers, and combining multiple chillers in a modular system provides a robust solution. Hyperchill units are designed to be installed into a combined modular system, with the ability to add further chillers to increase capacity to customers’ needs.
Individual point-of-use chillers are generally used where numerous applications within a food or drinks factory have different operating criteria for water temperature and pressure. Parker Hyperchill and Hyperchill Plus units are designed to be fully configurable to meet the specification of these applications.
Potable water is widely used both as a food ingredient and in food preparation. A town’s mains water supply is inconsistent, with temperature values increasing in summer and decreasing through winter.
The solution is to combine a chiller with an external heat exchanger and tank, packaged with a control system to deliver a metered volume of water at the specified water temperature.
The system package size is based on batch size, cycle time and water temperature. The chiller water circuit and process potable water circuit must be independent, as food standard regulations do not allow potable water to be directly cooled by a chiller, due to the risk of refrigerant contamination. Hyperchill and Hyperchill Plus are ideally suited to potable water packaged systems.
Why Parker?
Parker Hyperchill and Hyperchill Plus chillers offer the ideal solution for food and beverage cooling processes that require high performance, energy efficiency, reliability, continuity of operation, and reduced maintenance costs. Each Hyperchill and Hyperchill Plus unit is extensively tested to guarantee efficient operation and reliability under all working conditions.
Features and benefits include:
This post was contributed by James Brown, compressed air and gas treatment/analytical gas sales manager and Filippo Turra, product manager, Parker Gas Separation and Filtration Division EMEA
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The safe navigation of ships in challenging marine environments is a testament to the skill of the crew and the performance of the equipment they use. In offshore applications, the ambient environment can become hugely unpredictable, with wildly fluctuating temperature, humidity and vibration. This puts instrumentation and automation equipment under extreme duress, at a time when the performance of such systems is most critical to operators.
Fortunately, mandatory marine type approval exists to ensure that safety-critical apparatus installed on any classified vessel is fit for the task at hand. The stringent UR-E10 test specification from the International Association of Classification Societies, for example, provides strict criteria for the test requirements for electrical, electronic and programmable equipment intended for control, monitoring, alarm and protection systems for use in ships and other offshore applications.
At its heart, UR-E10 demonstrates the ability of equipment to function as intended under specified testing conditions - which is a comforting thought in marine and other offshore environments, no doubt, as the waves swell and the weather closes in.
Designing for stringent standards
For equipment suppliers, meeting the requirements of UR-E10 is a result of considered design at every stage of the product development process, with engineers working hard to ensure that equipment meets strict electrical, Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) and environmental performance expectations. For UR-E10, specifically, there are a whole host of multi-point tests covering varied aspects of performance including an external power supply failure test, Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) and surge immunity, dry and damp heat, vibration and flame retardancy, to name but a few.
Achieving marine certification is, therefore, no mean feat. That’s why here at Parker, we are pleased to announce that the Pro Display 10 human-machine interface has now achieved UR-E10 and also fulfills Electromagnetic Comapatility (EMC) requirements for installations in general power distribution zones providing customers with a space-saving, cost-effective and reliable Human Machine Interface (HMI) solution for marine and other offshore applications.
As well as guaranteeing performance in the harshest conditions, the Pro Display 10 comes with a full set of functions to support marine crews. The rugged 10-inch display module features multi-touch capability for ease of operation, even in the roughest of seas. The touchscreen interface enables rapid and accurate interaction with the display’s apps, although the platform can also be controlled using remote buttons or a pulse wheel if preferred.
Furthermore, the use of in-plane switching (IPS) screen technology results in crystal clear images with impressive colour reproduction from wide viewing angles – a particularly important consideration in the highly variable light conditions that may be encountered in marine environments.
Intuitive software delivers results
In terms of software development, Pro Display is an app-based platform and provides tools for fast and advanced application development. Parker’s UX Toolkit enables better usability for customer HMI applications, by bringing modern features such as dynamic user interface, fluid UI animations, and easy-to-use and intelligent data management. With Pro Display, marine customers can deploy customized HMI functions such as machine functionality, diagnostics, data monitoring and visualization and work management.
Moreover, Pro Display 10 can be a central HMI unit in a system or serve as a stand-alone display. A wide variety of communication interfaces supports versatile use within marine applications. For example, four CAN buses and Ethernet support communication for various systems in the application. Besides the two analog camera interfaces, a number of IP-cameras can also be connected to via Ethernet switch or a WLAN access point.
Meeting marine and offshore expectations
The result, then, is a product that performs at the highest levels in the harshest conditions. And that’s what marine crews and offshore operators demand as they combine their skills and experience with cutting-edge technology to ensure safety at sea.
Learn more about Parker Pro Display HMI solutions.
This article was contributed to by Mikko Konttila, Mobile Hydraulic Systems Division Europe, Electronic Controls Business Unit Parker Hannifin Manufacturing Finland Oy.
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Parker Sporlan’s ZoomLock MAX press-to-connect refrigerant fittings, designed for the air conditioning and refrigeration markets, allows HVACR contractors to make secure leak-free connections in seconds. That equates to less time on the job and more profit for your business.
ZoomLock MAX provides a clean, leakproof connection for refrigerant lines up to 700 psi. By eliminating concerns about gas and flames, ZoomLock MAX gives you more flexibility in where and when you can work, plus there is no need to nitrogen-purge the lines. This post is the first of three blogs answering your top FAQs on the product.
Applications
ZoomLock MAX fittings are designed for the following applications:
Refrigeration
Air Conditioning
Heat Pump (Refrigeration Side)
Download the full list of FAQs in this handy guide and learn more about ZoomLock MAX.
Q: My jaws sometimes get stuck on the fitting after crimping. What can I do to make it easier to remove the jaws?
A: Applying a thin coating of WD-40 or similar lubricant to the jaw before starting a job should help.
Q: Why is it significant that ZoomLock MAX is “UL Listed”?
A: UL Listed provides approval by UL for field and factory installation. UL Recognized products limit products to being factory installed only.
Q: What is the #1 suggestion to ensure safety?A: Follow all our steps on prep and installation.
Q: What is the #1 cause of leaky fittings?A: Possibly, skipping the prep and installation steps causes the tube to leak.
Q: What is a “deep” scratch, and how do you clean this?A: Your fingernail can feel a deep scratch. Try using a new piece of Scotch-Brite abrasive pad. Alternatively, use a 340 grit sandpaper/cloth.
Q: Can you show an example of a “good” copper tube surface after sanding?
A: Use the depth gauge provided or the Minimum Insertion Depth chart below (Table 1) to determine the correct insertion depth. Mark the tubing with a permanent marker to indicate proper insertion depth on every tube.
Q: Do you have a solution for crimping onto swaged tubing like that coming out of the condenser and evaporator on residential units?
A: No, we do not have a specific product designed to crimp over the swaged tubing. However, if there are at least 2 inches of straight copper tubing after the flared end and is accessible with the jaws, you may cut the flared end off and crimp directly to the tube.
A: See Table 2.
A: See Table 3.
Solutions for HVACR technicians and contractors
ZoomLock MAX press-to-connect flame-free refrigerant fittings are popular with HVACR contractors and technicians who are looking for more flexibility, safety, and efficiency. The biggest benefit of that improved efficiency is more productivity and increased profit potential for you!
Visit the ZoomLock MAX website to learn more, get engineering support, locate a distributor near you, and get started today!
Article contributed by Chris Reeves, product manager, Contaminant Control Products, Sporlan Division of Parker Hannifin. For more information on Parker Sporlan products please visit our website.
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Parker Sporlan Supermarket Seminar Series: Metering Devices, TEVs - Q&A Part 1
Parker Sporlan Supermarket Seminar Series: Metering Devices, TEVs - FAQs Part 2
HVACR Tech Tip: Top 5 FAQs About Thermostatic Expansion Valves (TEVs)
HVACR Tech Tip: Maintaining Refrigerant Flow in Thermostatic Expansion Valves
Parker Sporlan’s ZoomLock MAX press-to-connect refrigerant fittings, designed for the air conditioning and refrigeration markets, allows HVACR contractors to make secure leak-free connections in seconds. That equates to less time on the job and more profit for your business.
ZoomLock MAX provides a clean, leakproof connection for refrigerant lines up to 700 psi. By eliminating concerns about gas and flames, ZoomLock MAX gives you more flexibility in where and when you can work, plus there is no need to nitrogen-purge the lines. This post is the first of three blogs answering your top FAQs on the product.
Applications
ZoomLock MAX fittings are designed for the following applications:
Refrigeration
Air Conditioning
Heat Pump (Refrigeration Side)
Download the full list of FAQs in this handy guide and learn more about ZoomLock MAX.
Q: My jaws sometimes get stuck on the fitting after crimping. What can I do to make it easier to remove the jaws?
A: Applying a thin coating of WD-40 or similar lubricant to the jaw before starting a job should help.
Q: Why is it significant that ZoomLock MAX is “UL Listed”?
A: UL Listed provides approval by UL for field and factory installation. UL Recognized products limit products to being factory installed only.
Q: What is the #1 suggestion to ensure safety?A: Follow all our steps on prep and installation.
Q: What is the #1 cause of leaky fittings?A: Possibly, skipping the prep and installation steps causes the tube to leak.
Q: What is a “deep” scratch, and how do you clean this?A: Your fingernail can feel a deep scratch. Try using a new piece of Scotch-Brite abrasive pad. Alternatively, use a 340 grit sandpaper/cloth.
Q: Can you show an example of a “good” copper tube surface after sanding?
A: Use the depth gauge provided or the Minimum Insertion Depth chart below (Table 1) to determine the correct insertion depth. Mark the tubing with a permanent marker to indicate proper insertion depth on every tube.
Q: Do you have a solution for crimping onto swaged tubing like that coming out of the condenser and evaporator on residential units?
A: No, we do not have a specific product designed to crimp over the swaged tubing. However, if there are at least 2 inches of straight copper tubing after the flared end and is accessible with the jaws, you may cut the flared end off and crimp directly to the tube.
A: See Table 2.
A: See Table 3.
Solutions for HVACR technicians and contractors
ZoomLock MAX press-to-connect flame-free refrigerant fittings are popular with HVACR contractors and technicians who are looking for more flexibility, safety, and efficiency. The biggest benefit of that improved efficiency is more productivity and increased profit potential for you!
Visit the ZoomLock MAX website to learn more, get engineering support, locate a distributor near you, and get started today!
Article contributed by Chris Reeves, product manager, Contaminant Control Products, Sporlan Division of Parker Hannifin. For more information on Parker Sporlan products please visit our website.
Related, helpful content for you:
Parker Sporlan Supermarket Seminar Series: Metering Devices, TEVs - Q&A Part 1
Parker Sporlan Supermarket Seminar Series: Metering Devices, TEVs - FAQs Part 2
HVACR Tech Tip: Top 5 FAQs About Thermostatic Expansion Valves (TEVs)
HVACR Tech Tip: Maintaining Refrigerant Flow in Thermostatic Expansion Valves
By replacing the previously used steering cylinders with Parker’s sliding spline rotary actuator technology, Huron Manufacturing was able to solve the issues that were inherent with the hydraulic cylinders. By incorporating helical, hydraulic rotary actuators to steer the four tracks on its Easi-Pour Compact 880 slipform paver, Huron Manufacturing was able to provide its customers with a machine that accomplishes what used to require multiple machines.
The compact Easi-Pour machine can be used for large or small jobs ranging from tight radius curbs, gutters, and sidewalks to surface grade preparation and trimming.
“Our customers are impressed with what this Easi-Pour can do – which is essentially everything. They can buy the less expensive Easi-Pour, yet get the same versatility found in larger slipform pavers ... While it’s rare that a contractor attempts a radius as tight as two feet, this machine can actually turn and hold grade even tighter than that.”
— Murray Serfling, engineering manager at Huron Manufacturing
Finding the right steering solution
Huron Manufacturing replaced the previously used steering cylinders with Paker's Helac sliding spine rotary actuator technology. Hydraulic cylinders offered a turning radius of only 60° - 30° left and 30° right – compared to the 180° of rotation offered by the rotary actuator. The former steering configuration also required multiple mechanical linkage components that needed to be machined and welded together, which is characteristic to this type of design. Parker’s rotary actuator technology offers a cylindrical housing that contains all moving parts safely inside. The rotary actuators not only become the steering unit for all four tracks but provide the support of the load and the hydraulic turning power as well.
Huron Manufacturing also had maintenance and machine performance issues with the steering cylinders from all the pivot pins as well as the pins to keep bearings mounted between caster plates. The machine operators needed to make sure the pins were kept tight, and the bearings had to be greased regularly. The machine wouldn’t operate properly if the pins holding the bearing loosened. With the Parker solution bearings, seals, and torque-generating elements are all completely sealed and lubricated by the hydraulic fluid inside the actuator housing, resulting in low maintenance and zero leakage. The use of mechanical drives – chains and linkages – with the cylinders also limited the vertical and horizontal positioning of the tracks. However, the rotary actuators provide steering feedback through a transducer mounted at the end of each actuator.
The Easi-Pour in action
The Easi-Pour Compact 880 pours barriers to 42 inches high, paves up to eight feet widths, and handles any tasks that fall in between these specifications. After an accompanying transit mixer pours concrete mixture into its conveyor hopper, the Easi-Pour’s auger moves materials across the machine to a slipform mold that’s located at road level. As the paver travels forward, a hydraulic vibrator helps shape the concrete in a mold, guided by a stringline sensing system also manufactured by Huron. The stringline system automatically ensures perfect steering and grade by incorporating five sensors – two steering, two grade, and one cross-level control. The 880 machine also comes with a grade trimmer with a standard width of 51 inches to trim high spots from the road surface.
Huron’s Easi-Pour matches up well against industry alternatives. In addition to the tighter turning radius, this low-profile machine allows the operator excellent visibility of all the machine’s operations. It features the industry’s largest concrete hopper, yet requires no breakdown for transport. All Easi-Pours feature four-leg stability, and all legs are capable of hydraulically sliding to accommodate essentially any paving configuration. Most importantly, safety, durability, and long life are engineered into every Easi-Pour.
Fully hydraulic operation
The Easi-Pour Compact 880 is entirely hydraulically operated and does not come with any mechanical drives. Hydraulics in the form of helical, hydraulic rotary actuators are used to operate its four-track steering system. The actuators are rated to 3,000 psi. The four tracks are driven hydraulically through two-speed piston motors – low speed during forming operations, and high speed for travel around the job site.
The track drives are rated to 4,500 psi with a total flow of 49 gallons per minute (GPM). The hydraulic driver trimmer drive uses a closed-circuit piston pump operating at pressure to 4,500 psi, with flow to 36 gpm. The machine’s conveyor and hopper auger are driven by a gear pump with a manual hand valve to regulate speed. The conveyor and hopper’s operating pressure is 2,500 psi, requiring up to 25 GPM flow from the gear pump. Elevation and steering pressures of the machine top out at 2,200 psi, supplied by a pressure compensated, open-circuit pump. 12-V solenoid valves are used to control all the functions performed by the pressure-compensated pump.
Additional benefits
The advantages of the actuator technology go far beyond eliminating the cylinder steering.
“We’ve used Helac actuators for two other machines in the past, including our milling and mining machines for 4-wheel steering and conveyor positioning. The products continue to be durable and reliable and are incredibly easy to design into any of our machines,”
— Murray Serfling, engineering manager at Huron Manufacturing
Helac actuators improved the overall appearance of the Easi-Pour 880 machine with their clean package that’s compact and doesn’t interfere with other functions. Improved performance of the slipform paver was an additional benefit of the rotary actuator.
The torque output generated by the Parker's Helac L30 Series actuator gave the Easi-Pour machine the power to make much tighter turns than many comparable machines in the industry. The quality of the pour also improved because the height of the drive tracks could be independently controlled without impacting the steer capability.
Actuator operation technology
The cutaway above shows the initial position of piston and output shaft. Pressurized fluid entering inlet port A displaces the piston; a stationary ring gear causes the piston to rotate clockwise. At right, teeth on the output shaft mesh with those on the ID of the piston, causing the shaft to rotate clockwise relative to the piston. Pressurizing port B returns the piston and shaft to their initial positions.
Operating technology is the key to the benefits of Parker’s hydraulic rotary actuator. Its design affords a unique combination of features not found in other rotary positioning components – high torque and moment loads, high angles of rotation, and compact configurations. Its sliding-spline operating technology is designed to replace multiple components and function as a rotating device, mounting bracket, and bearing, all in one. The design of Parker’s rotary actuators systematically converts linear piston motion into powerful shaft rotation. Each actuator is composed of two moving parts – a central shaft and piston. Helical spline teeth on the shaft engage matching teeth on the piston’s inside diameter. When hydraulic pressure is applied to the piston, it moves axially, while the spline causes the piston and output shaft to rotate simultaneously.
To learn more about Parker’s hydraulic rotary actuators, please visit our website.
This article was contributed by Jessica Howisey, marketing communications manager and Daniel Morgado, applications engineer, Helac Business Unit, Cylinder Division
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When will my hose assembly fail? This may be the most common question when talking about hose assembly replacement. Sometimes hose assembly failures can cause serious damage and lead to costly downtime. Knowing what can cause a failure and having the exact hose replacement on hand will help you be prepared.
The surprise of a hose assembly replacement can be reduced by implementing a preventative maintenance schedule and by knowing how to recognize hose wear. There are several common factors that may cause problems with your hose assembly, you should look for these during your routine inspections.
1. Abrasion - Excessive rubbing of the hose against an external object or even another hose can wear away the cover and eventually the reinforcement layers. The cover is meant to protect the hose from the environment, so signs of damage to the cover or reinforcement layers should warn that failure is imminent.
2. Minimum bend radius - Hose assemblies can fail relatively quickly if the minimum bend radius is exceeded. For high pressure applications, premature failure could occur due to increased stress on the hose. In vacuum or suction applications, if the bend radius is exceeded, the hose may tend to be flat in the bend area. This will hinder or restrict flow. If the bend is severe enough, the hose may kink.
3. Heat aged - Overheating, from the internal hydraulic oil temperature or the external ambient temperature, will cause the hose to become very stiff. Overheating is accelerating when there is a hot internal fluid temperature and a hot external temperature. The inner tube will harden and begin to crack because the plasticizers in the elastomer will break down or harden under high temperatures. In some cases, the cover may show signs of being dried out.
4. Improper assembly - Contamination can be a result of poor assembly practices and can cause several problems for a hydraulic hose assembly. When cutting a hose, metal particles and debris can settle inside the hose if not properly flushed. This abrasive debris left in the hose will contaminate the hydraulic system. It can also cause small fractures to develop on the inner tube of the hose assembly, resulting in leakage.
5. Fluid compatibility - Incompatible fluids will cause the inner tube of the hose assembly to deteriorate, swell, and delaminate, The inner tube can also partially wash out in some cases. Verify that the fluid is not only compatible with the inner tube, but also the outer cover, fittings, and even O-rings.
6. Insertion depth - Fittings need to be pushed on completely to meet the recommended insertion depth. If the hose insertion depth is not met, fittings can blow off, leaving a failed hose assembly. The last grip in the fitting shell is essential to the holding strength.
7. Dry air / aged air - To avoid dry or aged air problems, confirm your hose is rated for extremely dry air. Hoses with inner tubes of PKR or EPDM rubber are preferred for these applications.
8. Tube erosion - Tube erosion is usually caused by a concentrated high-velocity stream of fluid or by small particles in the fluid. A hose assembly that is bent too tight for flow or an over abrasive medium for the inner tube can also lead to erosion.
Effective maintenance schedule
Your maintenance schedule should include checking hoses monthly, it is an easy way to catch issues with your hydraulic hose assemblies that may cause larger issues in the future. If you stick with it, frequently checking hoses will prevent your equipment from lengthy and expensive downtime.
The other piece of the puzzle is knowing the specifications of the hose assembly that needs to be replaced. Parker’s asset tagging and identification system, Parker Tracking Systems (PTS), is an efficient tool that can be integrated into your maintenance plan. Each PTS tagged hose assembly has a unique tracking number that provides the details of the hose assembly, so the PTS tagged hose assembly can be ordered without having to remove the part. PTS eliminates the need to wait for removal before the new part can be acquired. By reducing transaction time, customers can realize significant gains in productivity and increases invaluable up-time.
Replacement PTS tagged hoses now available for online orderingParker hydraulic hose replacement is easier than ever when you order your PTS tagged hose assembly online. Your PTS tag includes all of the configuration specifications you need.
Ordering is easy, start with your PTS ID number and have your hose replacement shipped to you.
Learn more about ordering hose assemblies online from Parker. Be prepared, hydraulic equipment that is taken care of will likely last longer.
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Hit and hold circuits enable solenoid valves to be energized to full power and held for a short duration of time before voltage and current are reduced significantly to lower levels, while still allowing the valve to remain open and energized. Hit and Hold circuits enable OEM system designers to operate solenoid valves at a reduced input voltage rating while maintaining the intended valve function. When implemented properly, significant power savings and heat reduction benefits can be realized in the application. The following blog explains the mechanical states of the valve when a power source is applied and instructs the end-user on how to determine an appropriate hold voltage parameter. Read Part 1 to catch up on Basic Solenoid Valve Operation
Reducing power consumption and heat generation within the valve
Now that we understand basic solenoid valve mechanics, how do these operating principles tie into reducing power consumption and heat generation within the valve? The key here is understanding the difference between the maximum current, at maximum rated voltage, and the current required to maintain the actuated state. A plot of the inductive response time of the valve is helpful in distinguishing the difference between the two states. Figure-6 below illustrates a typical electrical circuit for conducting a response time test and the resulting voltage vs. time plot captured on an oscilloscope.
Figure-6: Response time test circuit and typical oscilloscope output
It should be noted that to provide a clean voltage signal to the oscilloscope, a low resistance resistor, resistor-2 or R2, must be added to the circuit. (R2 ˂ 1% of R1). Once the manual switch is closed, the voltage across R2 increases linearly until the armature begins to move as illustrated in Figure-7 and 8 below.
Figures-7 and 8: Oscilloscope outputs
Once the armature is in motion, the inductance of the circuit increases and the voltage signal across R2 begins to decrease until the armature is fully actuated (Figure-9). Once fully actuated, the input voltage across R2 returns to the same increasing trajectory until a steady-state, the maximum voltage/steady-state condition is achieved (Figure-10).
Figures-9 and10: Oscilloscope outputs
It is important to understand that the voltage required to actuate the valve will vary with changes in coil temperature and the coil resistance dependent on coil temperature. Therefore, as the coil temperature increases, the actuation voltage will increase proportionally to compensate for the increased coil resistance. The opposite is true when the coil temperature decreases. In either case, the actuation current will remain consistent with variations in coil and ambient temperatures.
For the remaining portion of this discussion, the maximum voltage parameter will be replaced by the corresponding maximum current parameter so that the difference between the maximum current and the drop-out current can be assessed. Figure-11 below illustrates the location of the corresponding maximum current and actuation current parameters.
Figure-11: Response time plot
As discussed earlier, the valve will return to the nominally closed state when the power source to the coil is disconnected. Rather than suddenly disconnecting the source, if the input current is gradually decreased, the current at which the valve state change occurs can be determined. This current value is referred to as the drop-out current and is typically detected by monitoring flow rate across a normally closed orifice. Figure-12 illustrates arbitrary test results from a drop-out current test.
Figure-12: Drop-out current/valve state versus time
Once the actuation and drop-out current parameters are known, the end-user must establish a minimum hold current (MHC) specification for the application. The MHC must include a safety buffer which accounts for drop-out current performance variations due to application parameters including, but not limited to, system vibration, ambient temperature variation, elastomer swell (due to media compatibility and/or elastomer temperature), valve function/porting, and any other application parameters which influence the drop-out current. Figure-13 illustrates an arbitrary MHC value based on the established performance margin.
Figure-13: Drop-out current/valve state versus time
The maximum current (IMax) and drop-out current (I4) parameters illustrated in figure 13 are not specified given that they vary with valve type and application parameters. Therefore, in order to understand the power savings potential in a hit and hold application, arbitrary values will be selected for (I4) and (I5) in the following example.
Let us begin by considering a 13.6 VDC / 136 Ohm valve configuration. For discussion purposes, the coil resistance will remain constant. Therefore, we are effectively ignoring any self-heating and ambient thermal effects on the coil resistance. Based on the input voltage and resistance of the valve, the (IMax) value is calculated at 100mA. [I = V/R] The arbitrary values selected for (I4) and (I5) are 25mA, and 50mA respectively.
In this example, rated voltage is applied to the valve for a short duration, (typically less than 100 msec), to ensure actuation at 100mA, (IMax). Once actuated, the input current is reduced 50mA, (I5), and the valve remains in the actuated state. The input current/actuation state scenario described in this example is illustrated in Figure-14 below.
Figure-14: Hit and hold current state versus valve state
Given the arbitrary parameters above, we can now calculate and compare the power consumed by the valve at the selected current states, {(IMax) and (I5)}, using the power equation P = I2R. During the initial “hit” current state, (IMax = 100 mA), the effective power consumed by the coil is 1.36 Watts; this calculation is based on nominal 136 Ohm resistance. Once the current is reduced to the MHC or “hold current” value, (15 = 50 mA), the power consumed by the valve effectively drops to 0.34 Watts. Again, this calculation is based on a constant 136 Ohm coil; there is no change or increase in resistance due to the internal heating of the coil. Comparing the two power states in this example, the end-user has effectively reduced the continuous power consumption of the valve by 75% while maintaining the desired function.
It is important to understand that the pull-in response or response time of the valve will vary within the same valve family due to the differences in valve types, (2/3-way normally closed, 2/3-way normally open, distributor or directional, and universal type configurations), and variations in the magnetic gap. Therefore, in order to select a proper hit current duration, the end-user should reference the response time specification of the valve prior to designing the circuit.
Now that we understand a method to characterize the actuation and drop-out parameters of the valve and have reviewed a theoretical/arbitrary example for power savings, we can now discuss optimum strategies for implementing “hit and hold” power delivery.
Paker Precision Fluidics has been designing and building solenoid valves for over 25 years. Our engineers specialize in helping OEMs update original valves that are producing low yields. Our applications engineering team is always available to provide recommendations and customize equipment to customer specifications. To learn more about Precision Fluidics' miniature valves, flow controllers, pumps and accessories, please visit our website, or call 603-595-1500 to speak with an engineer.
This article was contributed by Phil Dodge, senior engineer at Parker Precision Fluidics.
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Parker's unrivaled industrial distribution network extends to approximately 13,000 locations globally. Through this extensive network of local, independent businesses, Parker brings its products and services to customers in 104 countries. Flux Active Service is a Parker distributor located in Stavanger, Norway, providing hose, couplings and related services for fluid power, power and control solutions for the oil and gas sector and maritime industry.
In March 2020, as the global pandemic caused major disruptions in the United States, Flux Active Services placed an order with Parker's Parflex Division for an 88 line, 2,000 ft. blowout preventer (BOP) umbilical and 300 ft. jumper bundle. These essential products are critical to drilling operations as they control the blowout preventer on the seafloor. The bundles were mutually agreed upon for an August delivery. As time progressed, the end customer moved up the timeline noting that they needed the products much quicker due to an active drill project.
Parflex responded to the customer's challenge by improving the delivery date by more than 30 days, The end customer booked a direct flight from Cleveland, OH to Stavanger, Norway for the product in late July. The logistics of moving a product like this was not a small task as the main umbilical is 13 feet wide, 11 feet tall and weighs 20,000 pounds. Due to the size or the product, the end customer contracted an Antonov 124 cargo airplane specifically for the transport of this product.
From start to finish, Parflex exceeded the customer's expectations, and is currently preparing to ship a second bundle for the same rig which will serve as a redundant back up that will also ship early and receive its own flight!
What is a BOP umbilical?The blowout preventer (BOP) is a critical piece of equipment in oil & gas drilling. The BOP resides on the wellhead on the seafloor and prevents the uncontrolled flow of fluids during drilling and completion. It essentially can seal the well if a back pressure spike (“kick”) is sensed and stop the flow to the surface which could cause severe damage. The BOP umbilical is comprised of smaller pilot hoses and at least one supply hose that are cabled together. The umbilical transmits hydraulic power and signals to the pilot valves on a BOP. A BOP usually has two sets of these pilot valves (“blue and yellow pods”) and thus two umbilicals.
Why Parflex hose for umbilicals?The Parflex Division is a leading manufacturer of thermoplastic hose. Thermoplastic hose is essential to a subsea umbilical due to several key reasons.
1. Length - In the case of these umbilicals, all of the pilot hoses and supply hoses were continuous, no splice fittings, over 2000ft.
2. Weight - These hoses are fiber reinforced and thermoplastic making them up to 70% less weight than a corresponding wire reinforced rubber hose.
3. Corrosion protection - The hose in the umbilical are fiber reinforced ensuring that there are not any hose elements susceptible to seawater corrosion.
4. Fluid compatibility - The core tube and cover of the hoses has compatibility with BOP hydraulic fluids and seawater
Visit our website to learn more about thermoplastics for hoses
The Parflex Division has a long history of manufacturing BOP umbilicals. These products have shipped for oil and gas drilling in Southeast Asia, Australia, Caspian Sea, and of course the Gulf of Mexico and the North Sea. Parflex has made subsea products up to 15,000 ft continuous length in the past. With the addition of HCR (high collapse resistant) hose, the capabilities and the applications that Parflex can service continues to expand.
Contributed by: Matt Peter, division marketing manager, Parflex Division
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Tractors, combines, wheel loaders, bulldozers, and excavators—you know, the big stuff— are called upon daily to perform the heavy lifting on the front lines of the agricultural and construction industries. Their job descriptions include tilling the soil, bringing in the harvest, building the roads, and anything else that contributes to meeting many of the world's most vital needs. Each of these machines is designed to perform specific jobs requiring many components to be in continuous motion.
Whether harvesting corn or preparing a construction site, that equipment is going to either lift, push, pull, or dig, so that means a hydraulic system is critical to the operation.
Small investment, huge return
If the hydraulic system is down, the equipment is out of operation and projects come to a screeching halt. A relatively inexpensive item, a check valve, can protect hydraulic system components worth significantly more, saving a business thousands of dollars in repairs and downtime. With both dollars and reputations on the line, the small but mighty check valve could be a lifesaver.
Before the 1960s, mobile equipment relied upon cables and pullies to get the job done. Since then, hydraulics took over, rendering today's machines more productive, durable, and cost-effective. The heart of the hydraulic system of this equipment is the pump. Its function is to get pressurized fluid to its assigned destination without interruption.
If the pump is malfunctioning, not only performance but also the safety of operators and other workers are at risk.
The last line of defense
In terms of protecting the integrity of a pump, the check valve is THE crucial component. It is the pump's last line of defense against damaging fluid backflow. A hydraulic system is a one-way street, and this valve is the traffic cop ensuring it stays that way.
For the level of protection provided, a check valve is remarkably simple in design, incorporating very few components—the body, poppet, spring, and retainer. The pressure of the fluid passing through the system opens the valve. Since it is a unidirectional flow device, the check valve keeps fluids moving in the desired direction. Also, it’s used in specific applications to maintain a system for optimum readiness and performance.
Protection and control
For mobile agricultural and construction equipment, in particular, the four most important functions of a check valve are:
Innovation + Design
Performance-conscious OEMs and end-users demand quality design and reliability. To this end, they turn to Parker. Long known for its innovative products and exacting standards, Parker check valves are engineered to perform under the most demanding conditions in which mobile agricultural and construction equipment operate.
Parker's check valves are available in various sizes, pressure ratings, flow capacities, and crack pressures, to meet the requirements of most hydraulic system applications.
• Parker's DT Series Check Valves cover the widest variety of applications out there. These hard seat check valves are offered in sizes from ¼" to 1-1/4" with the added benefit and convenience of compact design. Select sizes are also available in 45°, 90°, and tee shape fittings, which can help optimize system design by reducing labor and leak points. If you are unsure where to start looking for check valves, the DT Series is a great first option.
• Parker's CV Series Check Valves are another hard seat check valve option for your application. Built using a rugged, two-piece modular design, CV Series results in less pressure drop for increased performance in critical applications.
• Parker's CPIFF Series Check Valves are a soft seat check valve option for your application. The CPIFF valve’s poppet is streamlined with minimum restriction of flow in one direction. Flow is blocked in the reverse direction as the soft seat creates a leak-free seal in the closed position.
Parker maintains a large inventory of check valves in standard configurations for mobile agricultural and construction equipment that can be reviewed online.
Contributed by Lori Aus, senior product sales manager, Quick Coupling Division, Parker Hannifin.
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Mobile-equipment designers know that in the real world they have to deal with more than level surfaces and two-dimensional access envelopes. Designers at JLG industries in McConnellsburg, Pennsylvania, know that additional obstacles at ceiling level will challenge the platform on their boom lifts. That’s why they created the Model E300AJP electric boom lifts with the exclusive Jib-PLUS boom that provides access up, over, and around obstacles 30 feet above floor.
Eight 6-V/370-Ahr batteries power the 15,000-pound boom lift through a 48-V DC electrical system. Dual electric traction motors, with automatic spring-applied multiple disc brakes, handle travel. Wheel sensors feed information back to the travel control to ensure that both wheels work independently for improved traction on uneven surfaces or while driving over obstacles.
A permanent-magnet motor drives a highly efficient, internal crescent-gear pump to supply all the hydraulic functions from a three-gallon reservoir. The motor is energized to run the pump only when flow is needed, thus maximizing time between battery charges.
The control console on the 30 x 48 inch operator’s platform incorporates 12-V switches that energize solenoid-actuated, pressure compensated cartridge valves in the operating circuits down at the chassis. A minimum number of controls are used, and they are organized on the console to enhance the operator interface. High-contrast graphics and easy-to-understand symbols make the controls operator- friendly and help to shorten training time.
Reach specifications for the Model E300AJP include 20 feet, six inches horizontally; 13 feet, 1 inch of up-and-over height; and 360° of non-continuous rotation. The articulated jib produces a near-vertical orientation as it swings through a range from 55° downward to 86° upward. A Parker Helac rotary actuator at the base of the jibPLUS adds a 140° arc of side-to-side movement to the jib and platform. Finally, the 500-pound capacity platform is rotated 180° by a second Helac rotary actuator. In other words, the E300AJP offers truly versatile positioning.
Parker builds both of the Helac rotary actuators installed at the boom’s working end. The Helac L20-15 actuator between the main and jib booms is an integral part of the boom structure — functioning as a mounting bracket, bearing support, and power hinge, as well as the rotational device. The main boom is pinned to the upper hole in the actuator's clevis; the leveling cylinder is pinned to the lower hole. The jib-boom assembly mounts right on the actuator. Its upper mounting bracket is bolted to the large diameter, drilled and-tapped shaft flange. The jib’s lower mounting bracket is attached to the bottom of the actuator by a tie rod that passes through the actuator's shaft bore. (The tie rod functions as a second load path, for added safety.) The straddle orientation of the jib boom not only contributes stability and rigidity but also results in an exceptional 65,000 inch-pounds moment-load capacity (a 2.75:1 design margin).
The heavy load-carrying ability is largely due to Helac's patented integral journaled bearing design, which eliminates any need for external bearing support. Helac rotary actuators use a sliding-helical-gear operating concept that produces high torque from a compact envelope. (The Model L20 15 is rated for 15,000 inch-pounds at 3,000 psi.) High torque output combines with zero leakage for smooth operation with a solid feel and permits selected positions to be held without drift. For extra safety on the E300AJP. The hydraulic circuit includes an integral, factory installed counterbalance valve in a protected position between the clevises.
This article was contributed by Daniel Morgado, applications engineer, Helac Business Unit, Cylinder Division and was originally published by Hydraulic & Penumatics.
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Mobile-equipment designers know that in the real world they have to deal with more than level surfaces and two-dimensional access envelopes. Designers at JLG industries in McConnellsburg, Pennsylvania, know that additional obstacles at ceiling level will challenge the platform on their boom lifts. That’s why they created the Model E300AJP electric boom lifts with the exclusive Jib-PLUS boom that provides access up, over, and around obstacles 30 feet above floor.
Eight 6-V/370-Ahr batteries power the 15,000-pound boom lift through a 48-V DC electrical system. Dual electric traction motors, with automatic spring-applied multiple disc brakes, handle travel. Wheel sensors feed information back to the travel control to ensure that both wheels work independently for improved traction on uneven surfaces or while driving over obstacles.
A permanent-magnet motor drives a highly efficient, internal crescent-gear pump to supply all the hydraulic functions from a three-gallon reservoir. The motor is energized to run the pump only when flow is needed, thus maximizing time between battery charges.
The control console on the 30 x 48 inch operator’s platform incorporates 12-V switches that energize solenoid-actuated, pressure compensated cartridge valves in the operating circuits down at the chassis. A minimum number of controls are used, and they are organized on the console to enhance the operator interface. High-contrast graphics and easy-to-understand symbols make the controls operator- friendly and help to shorten training time.
Reach specifications for the Model E300AJP include 20 feet, six inches horizontally; 13 feet, 1 inch of up-and-over height; and 360° of non-continuous rotation. The articulated jib produces a near-vertical orientation as it swings through a range from 55° downward to 86° upward. A Parker Helac rotary actuator at the base of the jibPLUS adds a 140° arc of side-to-side movement to the jib and platform. Finally, the 500-pound capacity platform is rotated 180° by a second Helac rotary actuator. In other words, the E300AJP offers truly versatile positioning.
Parker builds both of the Helac rotary actuators installed at the boom’s working end. The Helac L20-15 actuator between the main and jib booms is an integral part of the boom structure — functioning as a mounting bracket, bearing support, and power hinge, as well as the rotational device. The main boom is pinned to the upper hole in the actuator's clevis; the leveling cylinder is pinned to the lower hole. The jib-boom assembly mounts right on the actuator. Its upper mounting bracket is bolted to the large diameter, drilled and-tapped shaft flange. The jib’s lower mounting bracket is attached to the bottom of the actuator by a tie rod that passes through the actuator's shaft bore. (The tie rod functions as a second load path, for added safety.) The straddle orientation of the jib boom not only contributes stability and rigidity but also results in an exceptional 65,000 inch-pounds moment-load capacity (a 2.75:1 design margin).
The heavy load-carrying ability is largely due to Helac's patented integral journaled bearing design, which eliminates any need for external bearing support. Helac rotary actuators use a sliding-helical-gear operating concept that produces high torque from a compact envelope. (The Model L20 15 is rated for 15,000 inch-pounds at 3,000 psi.) High torque output combines with zero leakage for smooth operation with a solid feel and permits selected positions to be held without drift. For extra safety on the E300AJP. The hydraulic circuit includes an integral, factory installed counterbalance valve in a protected position between the clevises.
This article was contributed by Daniel Morgado, applications engineer, Helac Business Unit, Cylinder Division and was originally published by Hydraulic & Penumatics.
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Improving indoor air quality (IAQ) has been a major focus in manufacturing, industrial, and other commercial environments for decades, given that poor IAQ can not only cause immediate deleterious effects but can also lead to long-term damage.
Then, COVID-19 entered the picture, and it became increasingly important to analyze the filtration systems in commercial HVAC units to gauge their effectiveness in reducing the spread of the virus.
Understanding the MERV rating system is important because not all filters are created equal when it comes to capturing airborne particles. See figure 1.1.
Not all particles are the same in type. Even within the two categories of aerosol – solid and liquid – and compounds, there are specific differences. Solids include coarse, fine, and ultrafine as well as nanoparticles (the same as ultrafine) and bioaerosols (airborne biological materials). Liquid particles include fogs and mists, while compound particles include smoke, smog, and environmental tobacco smoke.
MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rates the fraction of particles removed from the air passing through a filter under standard conditions – i.e., filter efficiency. MERV ratings range from 1 to 16. The higher the MERV number, the higher the efficiency of that rated filter. A filter capable of capturing very small particles (5 μm or smaller) will help reduce the risk of spread of infectious aerosols that can otherwise remain airborne for an indefinite period of time. See figure 1.2.
It’s also important to note that several factors affect the overall effectiveness of reducing particle concentrations, including the filter efficiency, airflow rate through the filter, the size of the particles, and the location of the filter in the HVAC system or room air cleaner.
Improving indoor air quality by installing higher-rated MERV air filters has documented physical advantages but the equipment in the work environment benefits as well. When HVAC systems are equipped with MERV 13-16 rated filters, more contaminants are removed from the air, reducing the number of particles that settle within the equipment, potentially damaging their components or degrading their performance.
The reduction of airborne particles through the installation of higher MERV-rated air filters combined with a regular HVAC maintenance schedule will ensure the air quality of the environment and the operational performance of the air handling equipment remain at an optimal level.
Parker HVAC Filtration recently introduced its Clean-Pak® extended surface synthetic bag filter – the first MERV 16 rated bag filter in the market – that can trap air particle sizes .3 to 1.0 microns.
In the past, hospital inpatient care, healthcare facilities, microelectronics manufacturing, and other commercial clients who required this level of particulate reduction had to install sub-HEPA or HEPA/ULPA air filters into their system. Clean-Pak MERV 16 bag filters are a sub-HEPA alternative.
Clean-Pak filters are designed with microfine synthetic media that is unaffected by moisture or humidity and provides maximum dust holding capacity. Other features include a rugged construction that reduces filter damage during transport and installation, sonically-welded filter pockets creating high strength and maintaining pocket integrity when in operation, and fabric ribbon separators sonically-welded inside the pockets to create aerodynamic channels for smooth air flow and low resistance.
Since the Clean-Pak synthetic bag filter is available in a variety of filter dimensions and pocket quantities, it easily replaces lower MERV rated filters while providing greater filtering results. Always check with a professional contractor or the system manufacturer when upgrading a filter since high-efficiency filters can affect the performance of an HVAC system.
This article was contributed by the HVAC Filtration Team.
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In bulk dispense operations, filtration can sometimes be treated as either a completely separate unit operation or in some systems as a bolt-on – an optional module that while performing this critical process step, hasn’t been truly optimized. This means that it may not work as efficiently or safely as it should, with consequences for product output, product safety and manufacturing capacity.
But what if bulk filtration and dispense could be optimized and delivered from one integrated system?
Introducing the SciLog® Filter and Dispense (FD) system
Parker Bioscience Filtration has more than 50 years of experience in designing and delivering filtration solutions. And working closely with the biopharmaceutical industry, we used our expertise to create a solution that could ensure that the filtration process step prior to bulk filling was fully integrated with the filling step in one closed, automated operation. In doing so, we have enabled biopharmaceutical manufacturers to benefit from an automated single-use system which helps them to minimize product loss and maximize yield, while saving resources on manual operations.
The SciLog® FD System allows the bulk filtration and dispense of biopharmaceutical products into either bags or bottles. It was designed and fully optimized with customer concerns in mind – for example, the FD system allows for ‘on-line’ integrity testing of both filters and manifolds through the use of Parker’s Scilog SciPres® Single-Use Pressure Sensors.
An automated, enclosed single-use system, it protects both the operator and the product: operators are not exposed to active biopharmaceutical compounds and the risk of contamination is minimized.
Advantages of the SciLog® FD system for the bulk filtration process
Parker Bioscience Filtration can customize the manifolds used on the system using our own technologies and through an open architecture approach, this would allow us to design a manifold with any commercially available filter capsule included in it.
Optimize your processes
You can gain a greater understanding of The SciLog® FD system at the SciLog® suite at Parker Bioscience Filtration’s site at Birtley, UK.
You can undertake interactive demonstrations with The SciLog® FD System and run trials to determine how the equipment can be used to optimize your processes. This can also be carried out virtually through a video link.
To book into the SciLog® suite, contact us.
For detailed information on the SciLog FD system, please visit our web page.
This post was contributed by David Heaney, market development manager, Parker Bioscience Filtration, UK
Parker Bioscience Filtration specializes in automating and controlling bioprocesses. By integrating sensory and automation technology into a process, a manufacturer can control the fluid more effectively ensuring the quality of the final product.
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Data acquisition in the modern, digitally-driven production environment can result in better product quality management than ever before.
The ability to collect, evaluate and react to data in real-time is the basis for excellent oversight of production processes to highlight problems and deviations. Anomalies can be quickly addressed, guaranteeing product quality without causing downtime or delays.
Push-to-fit provides the answersThe efforts to use data as a means of improving products quality have been given a significant boost by the launch of a new Parker solution for press and joining applications. Push-To-Fit is an innovative electromechanical kit combining a process control unit, servo drive, motor and electro cylinder connected through software into a joining module - that can be quickly integrated into general industrial and automotive assembly lines.
The hub of the solution is a process control unit that provides simple parametrization, visualization and operation. The monitoring method used ensures that real-time quality control is guaranteed, with the process control unit fully compatible with, and prepared for, third-party device connectivity with dual LAN networks and options for Profinet, Ethernet IP and Modbus. Numerous operating options such as web visualisation, digital I/Os and communications interfaces, e.g. OPC UA are available to facilitate integration.
Ease-of-use is boosted through real-time control information, historical/trend data, adjustable error response, definable motion profiles, and monitoring via tolerance windows or tolerance curves. Measured values and complete curves are provided in real time and permanently saved to a database. The creation of such valuable data allows immediate intervention and correction in case of deviations via any HMI with a web browser. The production management system can then take care of automatically generating an error notification message which can be sent SMS or by email to the relevant member of the production team.
The availability of long-term data for each production cycle can also be used as a means of proving product quality - even several years after production has taken place.
IPM Process Data Management
The IPM protocol in the Push-To-Fit system provides the Integrated Process Data Management Software with data for each production cycle, automatically recording physical process and measurement information. This data can be accessed at any time, perhaps as a means of responding to any legal provisions or supporting internal requirements.
The IPM Process Data Management Software and the IPM protocol are products of the company CSP GmbH & Co. KG, Germany.
Many of these characteristics - instant quality assessment, fast error logging, automatic notification and integrated archiving – can act as potent drivers of product quality inside a modern production facility. The collection of meaningful data can also provide benefits in other areas, such as helping to reduce product recalls and eliminating any unnecessary and costly downtime.
Push-To-Fit is, therefore, a welcome addition to the Parker range of electromechanical solutions. Visit our product page to learn more about the advantages it can bring to your industrial assembly projects.
This article contributed by Johan Oberle, Applications Engineer, Electromechanical and Drives Division Europe, Parker Hannifin Corporation.
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For more information on the benefits of precision cooling in food and beverage applications, as well as chiller system operation and design guidelines, view the interactive
To learn more about the benefits of precision cooling in food and beverage applications, as well as chiller system operation and design guidelines, view the interactive
This blog is part two of a three-part series that comprises a complete white paper "Efficient and Effective Direct Acting Solenoid Valve Control: The Benefits of Using “Hit and Hold” Electrical Control on Direct Acting Solenoid Valves". Download a copy here.
This blog is part two of a three-part series that comprises a complete white paper "Efficient and Effective Direct Acting Solenoid Valve Control: The Benefits of Using “Hit and Hold” Electrical Control on Direct Acting Solenoid Valves". Download a copy here.