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ISO 14001 is recognized as the international standard for environmental management systems and provides organizations/businesses with criteria to follow, which will identify, control, and reduce their environmental impact. Becoming ISO 14001 certified has numerous benefits to businesses, sectors, and activities large or small. ISO 14001 is a voluntary standard that hundreds of thousands of companies worldwide have chosen to become certified in, uniting them in a global goal to reduce the environmental impacts created by companies and businesses, to preserve the natural Earth for future generations.
ISO 14001: was recently updated to ISO 14001: 2015, which introduces a few requirements to a universally beneficial certification. Key benefits of ISO 14001: 2015 include:
Parker reducing environmental impact
When becoming ISO 14001:2015 certified, Parker set ambitious goals. Parker's Precision Fluidics Division was getting two trash and one recycling pickup each week. The goal was to reverse those numbers. It was achieved in 18 months by training, raising awareness to all employees, increasing recycling bins throughout the facility with signs/labeling, and constant monitoring. Goals of this magnitude take time and planning, but the environmental rewards are immense.
Helping our customers and our team
Parker Precision Fluidics is a great example of a company set on reducing its environmental impact. A goal was set to improve the durability of product packaging and eliminate landfill waste at a customer location by introducing recyclable materials. A few simple adjustments were made such as using recyclable trays instead of bubble wrap, bubble bags, and foam inside each shipping container. The change resulted in energy savings, trash reduction, and reduction in the weight production needed of each box. The total result was almost 64,000 pieces of foam a year eliminated from landfill, 100% percent recyclable packaging, and a simpler tray packaging system.
Transitioning to a tray system reduced the weight the production team needs to handle when transporting from the production cell to shipping, providing a much-appreciated safety and ergonomic improvement. Another exciting feature of the new packaging is that our product is even more secure during shipment. Following the ISTA (International Safe Transit Association) test procedure, Parker validated the new packaging to be an improvement over the non-recycled foam — reducing the risk of shipping damage and increasing the product quality when it's received at our customers' locations.
Reduce, reuse and recycle
Another simple adjustment Parker Precision Fluidics has made is utilizing reusable packaging for component parts from repeat vendors.
The picture to the left is a rack of recycled plastic trays on Parker Precision Fluidics production floor. These trays come from various vendors that make parts for Parker. After the trays are empty, they are shipped back to the vendor and reused. This is a great example of a very simple way to reduce, reuse and recycle.
Parker Precision Fluidics is an ISO 14001: 2015 certified division of Parker Hannifin that has set both large and small goals that have been beneficial to the company as a whole, our customers, and best of all, the environment. The above examples show how ambitious yet simple goals can have great impacts. The main objective in ISO-14001: 2015 is having continuous improvement and never being content with what you have achieved.
Becoming certified
The first step in becoming ISO 14001:2015 certified is to define your objective. What does your company want to achieve by getting this certification? Make sure you have the support of senior management. Take the time to review any existing processes and systems pertinent to environmental impact. If desired, third-party certifications are available that will conduct audits of your practices against the requirements standards. ISO does not perform certification. For more information about the certification process, visit www.iso.org.
To learn more about Parker Precision Fluidics Division, visit our website or call 603-595-1500 to speak with an engineer.
Article contributed by Jamie Campbell, pump product manager, Parker Precision Fluidics Division, Mooresville, NC. Jamie is constantly looking for new ways to reduce and recycle at the Mooresville location.
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Formed hose and hose/tube assemblies have long been used to solve fluid handling system design challenges such as installation in confined areas or those necessitating a tight bend radius. While both approaches have specific benefits—ease of replacement for formed hose and smaller allowable minimum bend radius for tube assemblies—they also introduce some potentially costly drawbacks:
When combined with the other environmental and usage factors that can adversely affect hose performance and life expectancy, it’s clear that better solutions are needed to improve hose performance while avoiding costly downtime and system repair.
Issues affecting hose performance
While hoses have a finite lifespan under normal conditions, it is helpful to understand that their service life can be adversely affected by a variety of factors.
These factors include:
“Fluids are the lifeblood of industrial and mobile equipment, and as conduits for these fluids, hose assemblies are critical to system performance.”
Jeff Grau, engineering manager, innovation, Parker’s Hose Products Division
The frequency of the occurrence of many of these issues has been increasing due to continuing end-product evolution that has generally reduced available space and increased the ambient temperature within that space.
Three key hose-related equipment requirements
Recognizing that the market needed a safer, more reliable and cost-efficient alternative to formed hose and hose/tube assembies, Parker developed the E-Z Form hose series: a system-based solution to challenging application problems. This provides a single-source reliable solution that meets all requirements effectively and economically. These are the requirements we focused on:
Requirement #1: Withstand extreme bends and tight routing without kinking
Requirement #2: Reduce potential for leaks in assemblies with multiple connections
Requirement #3: Eliminate the need for extensive and costly replacement inventory and related replacement time
To learn more about the issues affecting hose performance, benefits of formed hose and key hose-related equipment requirements, download our whitepaper, Overcoming Three Common Design and Maintenance Challenges in Hose Applications.
This article was contributed by Jeff Grau, engineering manager and Jeff Berger, product sales manager, Hose Products Division, Parker Hannifin Corporation.
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Air conditioning lines are one of the most critical components in an A/C system. They work as the central hub to deliver both gas and liquid refrigerant throughout the system. For a variety of reasons, A/C lines can fail over time causing costly replacements and lengthy lead-times for the end user. All vehicles can experience some leakage through seals and hose crimps, but as vehicles age, seepage increases. Repairing leaks is crucial since low refrigerant fluid levels prevent an A/C system's compressor from turning on.
Leaks can be easily detected by spraying hoses and couplings with soapy water and using the bubbles to pinpoint leaks. Often end-users are faced with the challenge of needing a high-quality replacement part that can be assembled quickly in the field. They may need a product which solves difficult applications like tight routings, or one that eliminates the need for crimping machines and dies which may be unavailable on site.
Parker's solution
Parker's A/C Clip stands out in quality, value and performance in even the most demanding applications of R134a and R1234yf air conditioning and refrigeration systems worldwide. The design is simple and only requires readily available hand tools. Parker also offers a comprehensive line of A/C style end connections available to meet the needs of many different applications.
This innovative product meets SAE J2064 standard and provides an end-to-end solution with Parker’s 285 Refrigeration hose. The hose/fitting combination guarantees the lowest possible refrigerant permeation along with superior hose flexibility as compared to existing products in the market.
Assemble in six simple stepsFor the A/C clip installation guide, you will need the following to get started: hose, hose cutter
Step 1: Cut hose to proper length with hose cutter
Step 2: Place two A/C clips on the A/C clip chamber
STEP 3: Slip assembled A/C Clip Chamber with A/C Clips onto the hose until the closed end of the Chamber contacts the end of the hose.
STEP 4: Replacement of Air Conditioning Hoses Made Simple Step 3 Hose Products Division
STEP 5: Insert fitting until the hex contacts the hose end with the A/C Clip Chamber.
STEP 6: Tighten A/C Clips with the pliers until the ear clamp ends make contact or meet. Expect a slight “spring back” or gap once the pliers are released. If you are using pneumatic pliers (Optional) to close the A/C Clips, the pliers open themselves when the correct closing force has been reached.
Parker’s Hose Products Division delivers unparalleled quality and reliability in products engineered for the success of your application. Learn more here about the innovative A/C Clip.
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Article contributed by Tanya Christian, digital marketing specialist, Hose Products Division, Parker Hannifin Corporation.
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Representing up to 40% of the electricity consumed by a company, compressed air is a fluid with many challenges. Poor management of this fluid and/or the design of its distribution network results in significant additional costs, but also low availability with negative consequences on production.
One of the challenges for industrial fluid networks is to integrate into a new industrial dimension of total automation for optimal productivity.
The compressed air network becomes an interconnected system in its industrial environment.
The means for the designer to achieve optimal productivity:Each compressed air network is unique, as user needs are variable, and the configuration possibilities are large. The main priorities for their operation are focused on the qualities intrinsic to the design of the compressed air network.
In a fully automated environment, other areas of improvement are made available for greater productivity:
Flexible and modular production methods and therefore completely reconfigurable.
Analysis of information, cloud, production line performance.
The implementation of means to ensure predictive maintenance.
Efficient monitoring of energy consumption and raw materials.
The use of virtual means for process simulation.
The integration of the Internet of Things into manufactured products.
It, therefore, becomes essential for an installation to interact with its environment.
What monitoring brings to the user and designer:
All companies try to keep downtime to a minimum. The best tool for this is preventive maintenance. It consists of shutting down the installations according to plans, performing scheduled maintenance and restarting without complications.
Preventive maintenance systems (condition monitoring) are based on value history, which originates from the phase of correct operation of the machines. Real-time measurement of values ensures that they are as close as possible to any variations and can be analysed as soon as they appear in order to refine the maintenance plan, create alerts or intervene in real time.
Moreover, having this information available in a given environment allows the designer to make changes to the system so that it can be even more adapted.
Monitoring will ensure greater responsiveness and understanding of processes and systems at two levels. That of the users and that of the designers. Monitoring is optimally integrated into the continuous improvement plan within and outside the company and can become a tool for interconnectivity between companies.
Parker Transair's proposal:
Parker Transair brings to its customers a new evolution in the field of compressed air networks with its condition monitoring technology, which allows end-users to monitor their compressed air network systems and maintain their productivity, anywhere and anytime.
The Transair Condition Monitoring System (TCMS™) uses wireless sensor technology to monitor the compressed air piping system, alert the end-user to system changes and provide critical data that helps reduce downtime and increase productivity.
A user-friendly web interface allows users to easily view and analyse the data to ensure that the system is operating at optimal levels of pressure, power, temperature, humidity and flow.
A 4-20mA wireless transmitter allows other equipment to be connected to the system to make their data available at the interface.
Transair Condition Monitoring System (TCMS™) helps to reduce overall costs by avoiding unnecessary downtime and extending the life of sensitive equipment.
"It is essential for end-users to be able to accurately monitor this data, because compressed air systems are very complex and highly scalable."
Guillaume Tetard, Director of the Transair Business Unit.
Transair Condition Monitoring System (TCMS™) complements the Parker Transair Aluminum Network System, known for its high performance, corrosion resistance and efficient use in a wide range of industries.
"Thanks to the light weight of Transair components and the instant connection technology, manpower is reduced to only 20% of overall installation costs, which saves money right from the start."
Françoise Lunel, Transair Communication Manager.
Combining a Transair system with the Transair Condition Monitoring System (TCMS™) will save the company money by finding ways to increase air supply efficiency, reduce maintenance costs and prevent unwanted scrap, thereby reducing the overall cost of the plant.
For more information about Transair System, Consult our Web Site or our Online Catalogue
This article was contributed by Laurent Orcibal, eBusiness manager, Low Pressure Connectors Europe Division, Parker Hannifin Corporation.
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When selecting the right coupling, the frequency of hose connection and disconnection is a major factor in the type of coupler that should be used. For example, at workstations where pneumatic tools are being changed many times throughout a shift, a quick connect coupler allows rapid tool replacement and provides a significant increase in productivity.
Another example is hydraulic testing processes. Quick couplings significantly reduce the time required to test each assembly. If technicians were required to tap into systems using a wrench to connect and disconnect, valuable time would be added to each testing procedure. Again, productivity increases with the use of quick couplings.
Many industries are rapidly adopting quick couplings for this very reason, realizing the increase in efficiency far outweighs the increased costs.
What is a quick coupling?A quick coupling, often referred to as a quick coupler, QD or quick-acting coupling, is a mechanical device that provides a fast, easy, sure way to repeatedly connect and disconnect almost any fluid or gas line. All quick-connect couplings have two parts: a plug and a socket. The plug is the male half and the socket is the female half. When connected properly, these parts seal and lock the joint effectively to contain internal pressures and resist any tensile forces that tend to pull the joint apart.
The most significant advantages of a quick couplings over standard hydraulic connections are:
Time of connection/disconnection
Prevention of fluid leakage
Why the reluctance to employ quick connect couplers?
Cost is a factor that prevents quick connect couplings from being more widely used. These couplings contain many more components such as valving and locking mechanisms, which means higher material and assembly costs.
Secondly, there is an issue of pressure drop. Media flowing over the internal valves causes turbulence in the media - either fluid or gas. Think of the effect rocks have on the flow of a river. This can cause a slight drop in pressure that can be measured as ‘pressure drop’ (PSID).
Choosing the right coupler for the job
Before selecting a coupling, important questions must be answered regarding performance:
Once these questions have been answered, a preliminary selection of coupling type can be made: one, two or no shutoff valves, and the type of connect and disconnect mechanism. Keep in mind that one style may offer the greatest convenience in service, but a different model's lower pressure drop may be more desirable for the application.
Single shut-off couplingsSingle shut-off couplings are primarily used for pneumatic or gas applications, connecting air tools, hoses or other implements to compressed air and gas supplies. In these applications, the coupler half (female) is valved while the nipple half (male) is un-valved or “straight-through.” Upon inserting the nipple, it opens the valving on the coupler, which allows flow. When disconnecting the nipple, the valve on the coupler automatically closes which stops flow from the coupler.
Double shut-off couplings
Both coupling halves are frequently valved in the case of hydraulic applications. Double shut-off couplings minimize fluid leakage while limiting the amount of air, dirt and water that can become trapped between valves during reconnection. To address these concerns, many manufacturers offer flat-faced couplings that reduce fluid spillage to a drop or less every time the coupling is disconnected.
Parker solutionsThe impact of employing quick connect couplings will make a difference in any operation where reliability, time and productivity are of the utmost importance. Parker’s Quick Coupling Division is the largest quick coupling manufacturer in the world, providing quick disconnects and accessories that are appropriate for use in countless applications across widespread markets where fluid lines are connected and disconnected. These markets include aerospace, subsea gas and oil exploration, agriculture, electromechanical, filtration, thermal management and all others that require reliable, safe connections.
Many of Parker’s coupling products are available with unique non-standard options well suited to very specific applications. Examples of unusual end-use applications might include: high temperatures (above 250° F), extremely caustic/corrosive solutions passing through the coupling, external/environmental corrosion situations or other high wear and tear situations such as dragging the product along the ground.
Learn more about Parker’s Quick Couplings.
Article contributed by Anthony Mistretta, product sales manager, Quick Coupling Division, Parker Hannifin.
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Ready or not, the age of the ‘smart’ factory is upon us in ways only a few short years ago were inconceivable. Today, any industrial sector business whose plant floor is not online may well find itself struggling to maintain a competitive advantage. Machine Condition Monitoring is being revolutionized by the Internet of Things (IoT) technologies, quickly replacing traditional monitoring of assets—gathering data through a time-consuming manual or semi-manual process—where manpower, time and other resources are required.
Cloud-based IoT advanced condition monitoring utilizing sensors, mobile devices and the cloud can assist in predicting equipment failures, save money and allow employees to do a lot more with less. Considering these facts, it makes perfect sense for a plant utilizing the ‘old way’ to make the move to this latest technology. So, if your business is considering making the upgrade, there are few things you need to know before getting aboard this hi-tech juggernaut.
Define desired outcomesWhen considering the implementation of a cloud-based IoT machine condition monitoring system, a strategy must be in place that will best define what you want to achieve.
What are you trying to impact? How will success be measured? Who will be responsible for the system?
Other factors that need to be evaluated at the beginning of the process include cost and ROI. While the cost has decreased significantly over the years, companies must take a hard look at not just the initial investment in hardware and software, but the downstream expenses as well: retrofitting, planned downtime versus unplanned downtime, consulting and subscription costs.
Of course, there are operational considerations—staff training, redeployment of existing resources, scheduling, management support, etc. Once you develop a plan of action and set goals, you will be better prepared to make the IoT decision that’s best for your operation.
Start small and simple
The process of launching and maintaining an IoT program can be intimidating - to engineers, maintenance staff, and to management as well. The answer is to start off on a level which allows you to focus on mission-critical assets and key plant floor issues. It’s also important to create an accurate baseline measurement of process functionality before the new technology is employed.
Easing into IoT, installing the system on a limited number of machines, will also set the stage for long-term success. This modus operandi will allow the entire team to better understand the hardware, software and critical processes without the inherent large-scale frustrations and defeatist attitude that could lead to disaster.
Leverage expertise
Chances are, you are not going to be able to make the leap to IoT machine condition monitoring on your own; there’s just too much ‘under the hood’ that only a true expert in the field will understand. The company from which you purchase the technology is your most likely source for providing the consultation necessary to keep your investment on track.
But you also need to lean on the experts in your organization that can speak to maintenance and technology needs that will make the implementation of an IoT condition monitoring system valuable.
Embrace the technology
Often the Achilles’ heel in the process of introducing this technology onto the plant floor is employee buy-in. In the mind of many workers, ‘new’ does not always mean better, and there’s the question of how this technology will affect ‘my current job.’ An explanation of the technology and its benefits is a critical step to make the transition as smooth as possible with these stakeholders.
Skills and knowledge will breed success. This may require new positions to be created—data analysts and networking engineers for example. Retraining of maintenance technicians will be critical. Ultimately, the goal for everyone will remain the same—keep the plant floor running smoothly.
If you’re expecting immediate gratification—financially and operationally— from your shiny new IoT investment, you will most likely be disappointed. Most companies report a time period of months, sometimes a year or two, before the system is operating at its fullest and most efficient. Staying the course and heeding the advice of experts will provide your company with a significant advantage over the competition.
The Parker solution
Parker can help companies—large and small alike—navigate their way through this new technology. Our easy-to-use cloud-based condition monitoring solution is ideal for accurate and reliable data gathering for predictive maintenance solutions. From the planning stage through full operation, the Parker team will be there.
Parker’s innovative SensoNODE™ Gold Sensors and Voice of the Machine™ Software utilize cloud technology to monitor machines continuously and remotely. With a web-based platform, users can get data from anywhere, anytime.
Facilitating the digital transformation
As a leader in cloud-based machine condition monitoring, Parker is helping industrial and commercial companies make the digital transformation to the Internet of Things (IoT) and full-factory connectivity.
View the comprehensive overview of Parker’s complete line of condition monitoring products or see the Parker solution at Booth #730 at Sensors Expo in San Jose, June 25 – 27.
Article contributed by Westin Siemsglusz, IoT market sales manager, Parker Hannifin Corporation.
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In the vast universe of manufacturing, machine performance is often the difference between a delay and on-time delivery; downtime and productivity; profit and loss. Ensuring peak performance out of each machine requires diligent monitoring and data gathering. This allows for early intervention when a problem is detected that would negatively affect productivity. At most plants, this critical data continues to be gathered by machine operators or engineers, either through a time-consuming manual or semi-manual process using paper. The information is seldom uploaded to a computer for analysis. However, this is a marked improvement of how it was done twenty years ago, but still requires time and manpower while raising the possibility of human error.
Condition monitoring tools
These monitoring methods are rapidly morphing to a digital, platform-based model. This digital transformation is being achieved through the Internet of Things (IoT) and full-factory, across-the-board connectivity. Using intelligent, networked equipment means data can come directly from the machine, eliminating human error entirely. Plus, valuable personnel hours will no longer be spent manually collecting data and entering it into a computer. How is all of this information gathered and where is it stored? ‘The cloud.’
As is the case with many other business data storage and access systems, the cloud provides an unparalleled advantage to the continuous machine monitoring process. Unlike complex on-premise connectivity, worldwide cloud connectivity only requires access to the internet.
Cloud-based advantages
Cloud-based continuous condition monitoring allows for more rapid flow of information, automatically sending alerts when process conditions are changing. Data can now be gathered from processes and components through a variety of manufacturers.
The ease of installation, operation and the decreasing price have expanded the implementation of cloud-based condition monitoring on plant floors across the entire manufacturing spectrum. Now, users can easily visualize data from any internet-connected device—laptop, desktop, smartphone or tablet. Advantages? Speed, reliability and accuracy.
Parker's cloud-based condition monitoring solution is ideal for accurate and reliable data gathering for predictive maintenance solutions. Designed with accuracy and efficiency in mind, Parker’s sensors are engineered to work in perfect harmony with the company’s proprietary software. SensoNODE™ Sensors and Voice of the Machine™ Software are deeply rooted in IoT, giving users an advanced solution that is fundamentally transforming operational efficiency.
The innovative SensoNODE Gold Sensors coupled with Voice of the Machine Cloud Software utilize cloud technology to monitor machines continuously and remotely. With a web-based platform, users can get data from anywhere, anytime. This capability reduces risk, maintenance and unplanned downtime; uncovers operational and performance improvements; and allows for more informed process decisions.
Why Parker’s Voice of the Machine Software?Voice of the Machine powers Parker’s IoT cloud solutions and ensures data is being generated on dozens of critical parameters of your operation. With Voice of the Machine, customers are assured of component-level IoT that is interoperable, secure, scalable and readily available on any computer or mobile device connected to the internet.
Widgets are utilized for data visualization. Dashboards are used to view both live and historical data reports over a preconfigured time period. Live monitoring displays real-time data in the cloud, providing insight into how the machine or process is operating in the moment.
The advantages of this solution include:
Parker’s SensoNODE Gold Sensors are designed to monitor the most critical conditions that affect machine performance: vibration, pressure, temperature, humidity, strain and current. An analog 4-20mA output transmitter is included to transmit data on anything that is not covered by native sensor offerings.
Vibration: Parker’s SensoNODE Vibration Sensors provide a simple and effective way to measure vibration of industrial machinery—often the first indicator of an equipment problem. Sensors can easily be attached to any type of equipment to monitor vibrations in even the most difficult-to-reach locations.
Pressure: Critical to the process and quality control in industrial machinery. Each piece of equipment is dependent on specific parameters and appropriate measurements to ensure functionality and stability. SensoNODE Pressure Sensors meet the challenge of detecting pressure fluctuations.
Temperature: For equipment to operate at peak performance in a safe manner, temperatures must align with machine requirements and production standards. SensoNODE Temperature Sensors monitor anomalies that may lead to unnecessary downtime, increased maintenance costs and lost production.
Humidity: As temperature increases, so can the amount of relative moisture present in the air. It’s critical that machines and processes maintain optimum temperature and humidity levels to ensure peak performance and longevity. SensoNODE Humidity Sensors accurately measure these levels and also display dew point values.
Strain: SensoNODE strain sensors offer the ability to monitor industrial equipment and processes for excessive strain or displacement. These soft, thin, conformable devices can take accurate measurements and readings while being strained up to 100 percent for millions of cycles.
Current: As electrical componentry within machinery takes wear, the power consumption will typically increase. With SensoNODE current sensors, the current amperage can be continually monitored to determine which machines may need maintenance.
4-20mA Transmitter: If there are any other parameters not covered by the standard offering of the SensoNODE Gold product line, there is an option to tie in other sensors. As long as the sensor has a 4-20mA output option, it can be connected with a transmitter to create a wireless signal.
Facilitating the digital transformationAs a leader in cloud-based machine condition monitoring, Parker is helping industrial and commercial organizations make the digital transformation to the Internet of Things (IoT) and full-factory connectivity.
View more information about Parker’s complete line of condition monitoring products.
See the Parker solution at Booth #730 at Sensors Expo in San Jose, June 25 – 27.
This article contributed by Westin Siemsglusz, IoT market sales manager, Parker Hannifin Corporation.
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A self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) has long been standard equipment for firefighters, rescue personnel and divers. SCBA has even found its way into the health care industry for use by workers treating patients with highly transmittable viruses such as Ebola.
Understanding the equipment they build and market must perform at the highest level 100 percent of the time. It is incumbent upon SCBA equipment companies to use only the highest quality parts, materials and assembling techniques in the manufacturing process. Cylinders, masks, regulators, hoses and couplings all must perform flawlessly in the difficult and dangerous environments in which SCBA equipment is employed, requiring manufacturers to produce the most reliable equipment possible. A mechanical failure or inability to rapidly change a cylinder can be catastrophic, not only to a first responder but to the equipment brand itself.
The need for speedThe more consequential the circumstances, the more critical the time between replacing a spent cylinder with a fresh one becomes. This is of particular importance to firefighters who must be protected from superheated air, smoke and toxic gases.
This process requires connection and disconnection from the coupling as quickly as possible. Replacement begins at the quick-connect coupling attached between the cylinder and the high pressure hose leading to the regulator. Many fittings employed by SCBA manufacturers have been traditional head-threaded CGA fittings and hand-tightened by means of a knurled knob—not necessarily the most efficient method of changing out a cylinder.
Following an intense period of research, the Parker team concluded the traditional CGA coupling could be significantly improved upon. Engineers and designers went to work with a single focus: developing an SCBA product that would save time and improve reliability. They developed an innovative coupling that would far exceed the industry standard set by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Parker’s innovative 503 Series quick couplings are the most advanced products of their kind on the market today.
How do Parker’s 503 Series quick-connect couplings improve upon the traditional CGA fittings? Following extensive development and testing, they have proven to far outperform traditional head-threaded CGA fittings in all critical categories: design and construction, connection time and overall reliability.
Designed and built for the harsh environments of the fire and rescue industry, these rugged, durable couplings provide several added benefits over the traditional CGA connection:
A traditional CGA connection utilizes a high pressure hose and threaded hand coupling, the 503 Series connection features a male nipple/female coupler assembly. This method of connection supports rapid cylinder replacement by eliminating the need to unthread/thread the CGA coupling. The push-to-connect coupling method employed by the 503 Series coupler provides a more rapid and secure connection. With lives at stake, firefighters and rescue workers cannot afford anything less.
Innovative features
These innovative 503 Series push-to-connect couplings provide easy and quick connection and disconnection of the cylinder on the SCBA even in the most extreme environments. Featuring a robust design and constructed of stainless steel, these couplings can withstand the most dangerous conditions, including those caused by temperature and pressure. The enhanced hand wheel design provides an improved grip for a faster and more efficient way to replace the SCBA cylinder—even while wearing heavy gloves.
These state-of-the-industry quick couplings are compact and can be fitted to existing SCBA’s and cylinders. An integral lock pin ensures the coupling is firmly locked by the pressure and cannot be disconnected when the SCBA is pressurized. The coupling is also ideal for use on transfill systems, making it a convenient and easy way to connect cylinder bottles to firehouse systems for refill.
503 Series quick connect features overviewHere is an overview of the features that make the 503 Series the cutting-edge choice for SCBA manufacturers:
Learn more about Parker’s SCBA Couplings.
Article contributed by Todd Lambert, market sales manager, Parker Quick Coupling Division.
When Seconds Matter Firefighters Entrust SCBA Equipment to Stay Safe
What type of flow measuring device should I use? This is a recurring question. The choice is bounded by customer needs, product variables and different technologies available on the market today. It’s important to find a vendor with extensive knowledge in flow technology to guide you in your purchase. Selecting the wrong flow measuring instrument can result in inaccurate data and increased the cost from maintenance/replacements and upgrades. This blog focuses on two specific types of measuring devices: Rotameters (a variable area flow meter) and Thermal Mass Flow devices. We will outline how both devices work and highlight important specifications to look for when purchasing. This information will help guide Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and instrument manufacturers in selecting the right device when challenged with measuring gas flow in a range of industries from life science markets to industrial manufacturing.
Volumetric flow
Rotameters are widely used in a variable area flow meter due to low cost, simple installation, versatility, low-pressure drop, wide rangeability, and visual output. This device measures volumetric flow rate and is the best choice for measuring and controlling the gas volumetric flow under actual process conditions. A rotameter uses the variable area principle, which uses a very simple design, consisting of a tapered glass tube. In the tube is a weighted “float” made of a corrosion resistant material (sapphire, glass, stainless steel, carboloy™ or tantalum), that rises in the tapered tube with the increasing flow until the force from the fluid velocity matches the weight of the float. Because the float position relies on gravity, the rotameter must be vertically mounted. Most manufacturers offer rotameters with a glass tube in a metal housing in varying sizes. The rotameter can be the solution for many applications with a simple design, low cost, easy installation, optional manual controls, visual outputs and no required external power. The rotameter is less accurate when temperature and pressure changes occur. For many applications when high accuracy and high-pressure capabilities aren’t necessary and low cost is a priority, this device is a good choice. Mass flow devices are a more advanced technology but fundamentally both concepts are easy to understand.
Mass flow
Above is a diagram of a thermal mass flow system, one of the more popular mass flow systems. At a no-flow condition, the heat distribution along the sensor tube is balanced. With flow, the temperature profile (heat distribution) moves downstream as the upstream sensor is cooled, the gas carries heat from the upstream sensor (T1) towards the downstream sensor (T2). Only a small amount of the total gas flow is diverted through the sensor; the sensor is a stainless-steel tube wrapped in two heating sensors. Measurements are taken at both heat sensors, (T1) and (T2) (see diagram). The temperature difference between the two points will be zero when no flow is measured. As flow increases, the temperature profile shifts down the sensor tube, the gas molecules passing the first heated sensor (T1) will carry the heat away from the upstream sensor towards the downstream sensor (T2). The increased flow will result in a greater temperature differential as the center of the heat distribution moves downstream. These distinct heat profiles are measured as temperatures at the sensors. The magnitude of the shift is proportional to the mass flow within the sensor. In a mass flow controller, the customer’s flow requirement (setpoint) is electronically input into the digital controller (as either an analog or digital signal). The processor compares the customer’s digitized setpoint with the meter’s digital output and controls the proportional valve, to adjust flow to match meter output with the customer’s setpoint as quickly as possible. Mass flow measuring devices offer exceptional accuracy, high-pressure rating, automatic controls and electronic output — but these features mean an increase in cost. The initial investment can be justified if the integration into electronic systems, accuracy and durability mean cost savings in the future that outweigh the present cost.
Volumetric flow vs. mass flow
When comparing volumetric flow rate or mass flow rate, you need to know how accurate the measurement needs to be. The mass flow is best when accuracy is needed with a high-pressure rating. Volumetric flow is best when measuring the volumetric flow of the gas and high accuracy isn’t necessary. Compared to volumetric flow, mass flow shows virtually zero fluctuation with pressure and temperature. The cost between the two technologies is significant. However, new products, like Parker’s X-Flow Mass flow controller, are offering mass flow technology at a more economical price that is comparable to the higher end rotameter. Again, the initial investment, now less with Parker's X-Flow, can be justified if the integration into electronic systems, accuracy and durability mean cost savings in the future that outweigh the present cost.
Thermal mass flow devices
The thermal mass flow controller and thermal mass flow meter have become the leaders in flow accuracy and repeatability. Now, with products like Parker’s X-Flow, a more economical, compact, flexible and easy to use thermal mass flow instrument is available. Parker’s X-Flow offers a compact design, made of non-corrosive, chemically inert, chemically clean stainless steel and improves productivity and reduces costs in many analytical, industrial and OEM applications. The thermal mass flow controllers can monitor and automatically control flow while integrating into electronic systems. The results are accurate, repeatable, fast and reliable. In using the bypass technology, the series has a laminar flow element and turbulence filter, allowing for Parker to easily tune to a customer’s requirement and rapidly produce a specific flow range and maintain an accurate measurement.
Conclusion
Talking to experts is the best way to know what type of flow measuring device is best for you. Make sure the supplier has a history with volumetric and mass flow science to select the right product for your needs. Becoming an expert in these fields takes many years to develop and experienced engineers to design and produce.
Learn more about Parker's X-Flow Thermal Mass Controller and request a sample.
Our applications engineering team is always available to provide recommendations and customize equipment to customer specifications. With over 30 years in both volumetric and mass flow technology, we have the knowledge to answer any questions. To speak with an engineer, call 603-595-1500.
For more information about Parker Precision Fluidics' products and capabilities, view our catalogs.
This article was contributed by David P Sheffield, product engineer, Parker Precision Fluidics. David has been a mechanical engineer for almost 30 years and has 10 years of experience in mass flow and mechanical flow measurement technology.
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Products used in the rigorous oil and gas industry must be resilient and of high quality to properly support these complex operations. Hoses and connections need to be safe, versatile and efficient. Rubber hose has its limitations when used in harsh environments. One of the issues is inner tube blistering. The blisters are caused by fluid over time permeating into the rubber core tube. When the pressure is released quickly, the fluid tries to escape quickly and damages the rubber core tube causing blisters that in turn cause leak paths in the core tube.
Parker has developed a high pressure hose specifically for subsea applications. The core tube is made of nylon which is time and field proven to work in subsea applications, and it is chemically compatible with subsea control fluids.
The flexible alternative to 1-1/2” I.D.
The Polyflex 2340N-24 Hose is specifically designed for subsea applications in the oil and gas market. It is a flexible hose that meets API 17E and ABS requirements. The seamless, extruded Polyamide core tube has a wide range of media compatibility, making it suitable for blow out preventer (BOP) equipment and many other offshore drilling applications. 
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The 2340N hose serves multiple applications in the oil and gas industry, such as BOP stack, acidizing, well stimulation, cementing and land or subsea based hydraulic systems. For more detailed information please reference the product data sheet for 2340N-24 Polyflex High Pressure Hydraulic Hose for the oil and gas market.
Visit us at OTC
Join Parker at booth 3639 during OTC May 6 – 9, 2019 at NRG Park, Houston, Texas to learn about our precision-engineered solutions to for the offshore market. We offer solutions to control your systems in deeper waters, at higher temperatures and pressures, and in the harshest environments with industry-leading efficiency and reliability.
Not attending the show? Visit our Subsea solutions site to learn about reliable, high-performance connections for subsea and topside applications.
Article contributed to by Will Solano, account manager, Global Sales Force, Parker Hannifin Corporation.
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