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Medical technology continues to evolve towards diagnosis and treatment equipment that is closer to the patient - wearable or in the home. Examples include point of care diagnostics, dialysis, compression therapy machines, and negative pressure wound therapy devices. Medical equipment manufacturers are responding to this trend by designing smaller, more portable, and quiet devices to improve the patient's experience and comfort. To ensure a competitive edge, OEM design engineers are faced with integrating components that meet design specifications without compromising functionality.
We will explore how design innovations in diaphragm pumps are helping OEM design engineers mitigate noise, improve performance, increase product life and reduce service costs.
The challenge
One of the biggest challenges to pump longevity is the brushless DC motor that operates the pump mechanism. Most diaphragm pumps operate similarly: a motor shaft rotates a connecting rod assembly that drives a diaphragm up and down to create a pressure differential that results in flow. This connecting rod and diaphragm are attached perpendicular to the motor shaft creating a reciprocating radial load. In other words, the load of the diaphragm is pushing and pulling on the motor shaft with every stroke. As you can imagine, doing this 3000 times every minute for thousands of hours can be tough on a motor and lead to increased noise and reduced life.
Parker has a patented process to restrict the free movement of the motor ball-bearing balls so they roll in a fixed position and cannot chatter. This greatly reduces the noise, but more importantly, it allows the pumps to operate for thousands of hours at peak performance.
A winning combination
Parker has been building miniature diaphragm pumps for more than 20 years. Brushless motors are designed and built in the same ISO 13485 certified factory as the pumps. This combination delivers the best motor solution for customers, ensuring a reliable, long-life pump. Manufacturing the pumps and motors in the same facility also allows for strict control of the design, resulting in better quality control and change management.
The BTX pump
Parker’s BTX pump product line combines best-in-class diaphragm pump design, innovative brushless motor technology, ultra-low vibration, and advanced manufacturing techniques to bring a next-generation solution to next-generation device needs. The BTX Pump delivers high performance with superior quality and reliability. The product line offers a growing range of options for motor type, motor controls, and pump performance flexibility to serve a wide range of needs.
Features
Interested in testing out the BTX miniature diaphragm pump? Request a sample.
Parker Precision Fluidics offers a wide variety of miniature pumps and valves for all your application needs. With over 30 years in the industry, Parker Precision Fluidics offers guaranteed high quality, reputable product, and market-driven innovation. Contact us today to speak to an expert engineer about your application-specific needs.
Our applications engineering team is always available to provide recommendations and customize equipment to customer specifications, call 603-595-1500 to speak with an engineer.
For more information on our miniature and micro diaphragm pump platforms, download our catalog.
This article was contributed by Jamie Campbell, product manager, Parker Precision Fluidics.
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The sun has been referred to as a primary inexhaustible energy source capable of meeting energy demands on a global scale. Electricity can be generated from solar energy either directly using photovoltaic (PV) cells or indirectly using concentrated solar power (CSP) technology. The advantage of PV systems is that they can be installed quickly and easily. CSP technology, however, is promising because of its high capacity, efficiency, and energy-storage capability.
Progress has been made to improve solar energy efficiency in both options. However, the biggest challenge to fully integrating solar energy into the energy mix is a lack of solar energy storage. The global power grid is not suited for intermittent energy. So, any viable renewable energy source must be consistent and reliable, as well as cost-competitive.
Read part 2 of our white paper- 2021 Power Generation and Renewable Energy Trends, to explore renewable energy technology trends, both established and newer technologies including solar, wind, marine, and hydroelectric.
A lot is changing in solar energy, specifically regarding:
innovations into efficient energy storage technologies,
identification of lower cost,
more abundant materials for PV solar cells, and
upgrades to tracking systems to make solar panels more efficient in capturing the sun’s energy.
One of the more exciting possibilities for solar energy is a satellite power station that could transmit electrical energy from solar panels in space to Earth via microwave beams.
Satisfying solar energy storage needs with battery innovations
Battery storage is required for solar energy because of cloudy days and nightfall, both of which limit sun exposure. However, there are challenges to overcome. Currently, lithium-ion batteries still dominate the market. There are growing concerns; however, about their toxic effects, limited duration, and safety risks relative to overheating. In addition, lithium is a finite resource and environmentally taxing to mine.
Tremendous research has been done to identify cheaper and more abundant elements that could be used instead of lithium. Elements receiving the greatest interest include silicon, sodium, aluminum, and potassium. However, the electrochemical potential of some of these elements is lower than lithium, which means the energy density of the battery may be reduced. Such limitations have opened the door to using a combination of alternative materials.
Sodium-sulfur batteries, for example, are promising for large-scale energy storage because they are long-lasting and highly efficient at producing electricity. Sodium-sulfur battery electrodes contain molten sodium and molten sulfur, and the electrolyte is solid, A remaining challenge, however, is that these batteries currently need to operate at very high temperatures. Researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, cited in a September 2019 article in Cleantech Concepts, are investigating the possibility of sodium-sulfur options that can operate at room temperature.
Flow batteries: another attractive option
Flow batteries are another attractive option gaining greater interest. They consist of two tanks of liquids that feed into electrochemical cells. Their advantage is that they store the electricity in the liquid rather than in the electrodes. This makes them more stable than lithium-ion batteries and gives them a longer lifespan. In addition, the liquids are less flammable, and the design of the flow battery means it can easily be scaled up simply by building bigger tanks for the liquids.
One type of flow battery, known as the vanadium flow battery or vanadium redox battery, is already available commercially. It is a type of rechargeable flow battery that employs vanadium ions in different oxidation states to store chemical potential energy. The attraction of the vanadium redox battery is that you can charge and discharge it at the same time, something that can’t be done with a lithium battery. China had anticipated completing construction on the world’s largest vanadium flow battery in 2020, according to a May 2020 article on the VanadiumCorp website, COVID-related lockdowns in the country put the project behind schedule.
Like any alternative design, there are downsides to vanadium flow batteries, namely that the liquids can be costly, and they aren’t quite as efficient as lithium-ion batteries.
Beyond flow batteries, there are plenty of other developments creating excitement in battery research and development. For example, researchers at RMIT University in Melbourne are developing a proton battery that works by turning water into oxygen and hydrogen and then using hydrogen to power a fuel cell. Other research teams are exploring 100% lithium-free ion batteries using materials such as graphite and potassium for the electrode and aluminum salt liquids to carry the charged ions.
In addition, researchers in China are looking at improving the existing technology of nickel-zinc batteries, which are cost-effective, safe, non-toxic, and environmentally friendly. Like the vanadium flow batteries, however, they don’t last as long as current lithium-ion batteries. Work is also underway on saltwater-based batteries, with one design already being used for residential solar storage.
Innovations in tracking systems help capture greater solar energy
While battery innovations are helping to store more energy, work also continues to find solutions designed to capture more energy from the sun.
The concept of using tracking systems to position solar panels in such a way that they capture more sunlight is not new. Various studies have suggested that by following (tracking) the movement of the sun, output from solar panels can be boosted roughly 20%-30%. Traditional tracking systems are built on a single axis, but newer dual-axis systems can capture more energy. The greater energy, however, comes at a steep cost, making dual-axis tracking systems cost-prohibitive for many applications.
New designs and technologies are reducing those costs. Not only are efforts underway to make dual-axis tracking systems less expensive, but new solar panel materials are also being identified. Some solar farms, for example, are hoping to switch from silicon to perovskite, a crystal-like structure that consists of calcium titanium oxide. Preliminary studies suggest that perovskite could increase electricity generation by a third. However, no perovskite solar panels are yet commercially available as engineers are still working to overcome stability problems with the material.
Regardless of the material used, a key concern relative to the reliable use of tracking systems continues to revolve around condition monitoring and maintenance. The trackers are subject to tremendous load variances, especially when working in dusty, windy environments. Since many solar farms in operation today are in remote areas, visual inspection of the tracking systems and solar panels is time-consuming and expensive.
That’s why Parker launched its SCOUT™ Cloud Software and SensoNODE™ Gold Sensors, which provide a wireless, remote monitoring solution.
By monitoring the pressure levels of the solar panel tracking system’s hydraulic loads, end users can easily calculate how much extra pressure is being put on the panels. A change in the supported load can sometimes indicate structural damage that needs to be addressed before the scheduled visit from field technicians.
Enhanced energy storage solutions in the form of alternative battery designs and higher-efficiency, lower-cost solar panel tracking systems represent a part, but not all, of the necessary solutions to make solar energy more reliable. The power is there, but more work must be done to help solar energy reach its full potential.
To learn more about trends in the solar industry, read our Power Generation and Renewable Energy Trends White Paper – Part 2.
This article was contributed by the Fluid Gas Handling Team.
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For decades, coal has dominated global power generation. Yet, its share of power generation is declining. The International Energy Agency predicts that global coal consumption has peaked and will not return to former levels, as cited in an article appearing in the Dec. 3, 2020, issue of The Economist.
Many factors are driving coal’s decline. Environmental concerns, economically competitive renewable energy, and declining profitability are only a few. To successfully navigate these trends, power plants are increasingly making the switch from coal to natural gas to produce electricity.
Read part 1 of our white paper- 2021 Power Generation and Renewable Energy Trends, to learn how fossil-based power generation technologies and power grids are rapidly evolving to meet the demands of the 21st-century market.
Coal power plant advantages and disadvantages
Nearly all coal-fired power plants use steam turbines to produce electricity. To drive turbine blades, boilers burn coal to produce pressurized steam. Coal has remained the most dominant source for electricity generation because of its abundant supply, low cost, and efficient output.
While these advantages remain, mining and burning coal impact the environment and quality of life in nearby communities. The health and environmental effects of coal add regulatory hurdles and indirect costs that make alternatives more attractive, driving power plant conversions from coal to natural gas.
The decline of coal power
Coal’s decline is likely to continue for the foreseeable future, despite recent growth in some global markets. China, for instance, produces half of the world’s coal-fired electricity. As a result, it is the world’s largest emitter of CO².
Yet despite the fact China grew its number of coal-fired plants five-fold between 2000 and 2019, it has begun canceling planned capacity additions and investing in renewable energy. China is expected to continue its emphasis on clean, low-carbon energy. Its plans to reach peak carbon emissions by 2030 and to become carbon neutral by 2060 will require the replacement of coal-fired power plants with renewable energy for decades to effectively phase out the world’s biggest market for coal-fired boilers.
U.S. environmental regulations also have contributed to the decline in coal-fired generating capacity by increasing operational costs. The Mercury and Air Toxics Standards implemented by the Environmental Protection Agency in 2015 set new limits on air pollutants associated with coal combustion, including mercury, arsenic, and heavy metals. This resulted in most coal-fired plants having to install activated carbon injection technology to treat their coal-fired boiler flue gas at an average cost of $5.8 million per generator, according to a U.S. Senate Committee hearing report.
Improving efficiency in coal-fired plants
In the United States, another headwind of its aging coal plants is a loss of efficiency. About 74% of coal plants today have been in operation for at least 30 years. While coal can be inexpensive, boiler inefficiency is costly. For a power plant spending $100 million annually on fuel, a 1% improvement in boiler efficiency by converting to an alternative fuel source can result in significant fuel savings, as well as a reduction of CO² and other emissions that contribute to global warming.
Combustion technologies vary in coal-fired utility boilers. Each achieves a different level of fuel efficiency, measured as the amount of coal needed to produce the same amount of electricity. The least efficient boilers in operation today are aging subcritical units that convert less than 35% of coal energy into electricity. Newer subcritical units are more efficient electricity generators, achieving about 38% efficiency.
Supercritical units operate at higher temperatures to generate hotter steam under higher pressure. These units produce electricity with an efficiency rate of approximately 42%.
The most efficient coal-fired boilers, called ultra-supercritical units or high-efficiency low emissions (HELE) units, approach 48% energy efficiency. Still, even HELE units emit about twice the CO² as electricity generated from natural gas.
Natural gas-fired turbine power generation grows
To remain competitive and increase efficiency, many coal-fired operations are switching plants to natural gas. Between 2011 and 2019, 103 coal-fired plants were converted to, or replaced by, natural gas-fired plants. The U.S. Energy Information Administration predicts coal to gas conversions will continue.
In most cases, when a plant switches from coal to become a gas-fired plant, its equipment is either converted to burn natural gas or it adopts new technologies to become a natural gas-fired combined-cycle plant.
Natural gas combined cycle power plants can reach 60% efficient power generation by utilizing both gas turbines and a special type of boiler called a heat recovery steam generator. In a gas turbine, a continuous blast of hot gasses is mixed with air in a combustion chamber to drive turbine blades. The heat recovery steam generator repurposes waste heat from burning natural gas to heat water and operates a steam turbine, boosting the plant’s total output.
Simple-cycle combustion turbines use the same process to produce electricity as combined cycle plants, but without incorporating the heat recovery steam generator. These operations cost less and can be constructed faster. However, without the benefit of repurposing waste heat, simple cycle plants can reach only 35%-40% efficiency. These attributes make simple-cycle combustion turbines appropriate for supplying peak-load demand.
Another emerging gas turbine technology is a smaller, lighter aero-derivative turbine. Because aero-derivative gas turbines can quickly reach maximum production and change power levels, they are becoming increasingly popular with electric utilities for providing peak and intermittent power generation.
These advances in turbine technology, along with environmentally friendly attributes of natural gas as a fuel source, have placed conversion to natural gas-fired plants at the forefront of efficient power generation. As of 2018, the natural gas combined cycle is the technology with the most electricity generating capacity in the United States. The EIA predicts natural gas combined cycle plants will remain the top source of electricity generation in the United States for the foreseeable future.
To learn more about advancements in power generation, read our Power Generation and Renewable Energy Trends White Paper – Part 1.
This article was contributed by Fluid and Gas Handling and Parker Energy Teams.
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For decades, coal has dominated global power generation. Yet, its share of power generation is declining. The International Energy Agency predicts that global coal consumption has peaked and will not return to former levels, as cited in an article appearing in the Dec. 3, 2020, issue of The Economist.
Many factors are driving coal’s decline. Environmental concerns, economically competitive renewable energy, and declining profitability are only a few. To successfully navigate these trends, power plants are increasingly making the switch from coal to natural gas to produce electricity.
Read part 1 of our white paper- 2021 Power Generation and Renewable Energy Trends, to learn how fossil-based power generation technologies and power grids are rapidly evolving to meet the demands of the 21st-century market.
Coal power plant advantages and disadvantages
Nearly all coal-fired power plants use steam turbines to produce electricity. To drive turbine blades, boilers burn coal to produce pressurized steam. Coal has remained the most dominant source for electricity generation because of its abundant supply, low cost, and efficient output.
While these advantages remain, mining and burning coal impact the environment and quality of life in nearby communities. The health and environmental effects of coal add regulatory hurdles and indirect costs that make alternatives more attractive, driving power plant conversions from coal to natural gas.
The decline of coal power
Coal’s decline is likely to continue for the foreseeable future, despite recent growth in some global markets. China, for instance, produces half of the world’s coal-fired electricity. As a result, it is the world’s largest emitter of CO².
Yet despite the fact China grew its number of coal-fired plants five-fold between 2000 and 2019, it has begun canceling planned capacity additions and investing in renewable energy. China is expected to continue its emphasis on clean, low-carbon energy. Its plans to reach peak carbon emissions by 2030 and to become carbon neutral by 2060 will require the replacement of coal-fired power plants with renewable energy for decades to effectively phase out the world’s biggest market for coal-fired boilers.
U.S. environmental regulations also have contributed to the decline in coal-fired generating capacity by increasing operational costs. The Mercury and Air Toxics Standards implemented by the Environmental Protection Agency in 2015 set new limits on air pollutants associated with coal combustion, including mercury, arsenic, and heavy metals. This resulted in most coal-fired plants having to install activated carbon injection technology to treat their coal-fired boiler flue gas at an average cost of $5.8 million per generator, according to a U.S. Senate Committee hearing report.
Improving efficiency in coal-fired plants
In the United States, another headwind of its aging coal plants is a loss of efficiency. About 74% of coal plants today have been in operation for at least 30 years. While coal can be inexpensive, boiler inefficiency is costly. For a power plant spending $100 million annually on fuel, a 1% improvement in boiler efficiency by converting to an alternative fuel source can result in significant fuel savings, as well as a reduction of CO² and other emissions that contribute to global warming.
Combustion technologies vary in coal-fired utility boilers. Each achieves a different level of fuel efficiency, measured as the amount of coal needed to produce the same amount of electricity. The least efficient boilers in operation today are aging subcritical units that convert less than 35% of coal energy into electricity. Newer subcritical units are more efficient electricity generators, achieving about 38% efficiency.
Supercritical units operate at higher temperatures to generate hotter steam under higher pressure. These units produce electricity with an efficiency rate of approximately 42%.
The most efficient coal-fired boilers, called ultra-supercritical units or high-efficiency low emissions (HELE) units, approach 48% energy efficiency. Still, even HELE units emit about twice the CO² as electricity generated from natural gas.
Natural gas-fired turbine power generation grows
To remain competitive and increase efficiency, many coal-fired operations are switching plants to natural gas. Between 2011 and 2019, 103 coal-fired plants were converted to, or replaced by, natural gas-fired plants. The U.S. Energy Information Administration predicts coal to gas conversions will continue.
In most cases, when a plant switches from coal to become a gas-fired plant, its equipment is either converted to burn natural gas or it adopts new technologies to become a natural gas-fired combined-cycle plant.
Natural gas combined cycle power plants can reach 60% efficient power generation by utilizing both gas turbines and a special type of boiler called a heat recovery steam generator. In a gas turbine, a continuous blast of hot gasses is mixed with air in a combustion chamber to drive turbine blades. The heat recovery steam generator repurposes waste heat from burning natural gas to heat water and operates a steam turbine, boosting the plant’s total output.
Simple-cycle combustion turbines use the same process to produce electricity as combined cycle plants, but without incorporating the heat recovery steam generator. These operations cost less and can be constructed faster. However, without the benefit of repurposing waste heat, simple cycle plants can reach only 35%-40% efficiency. These attributes make simple-cycle combustion turbines appropriate for supplying peak-load demand.
Another emerging gas turbine technology is a smaller, lighter aero-derivative turbine. Because aero-derivative gas turbines can quickly reach maximum production and change power levels, they are becoming increasingly popular with electric utilities for providing peak and intermittent power generation.
These advances in turbine technology, along with environmentally friendly attributes of natural gas as a fuel source, have placed conversion to natural gas-fired plants at the forefront of efficient power generation. As of 2018, the natural gas combined cycle is the technology with the most electricity generating capacity in the United States. The EIA predicts natural gas combined cycle plants will remain the top source of electricity generation in the United States for the foreseeable future.
To learn more about advancements in power generation, read our Power Generation and Renewable Energy Trends White Paper – Part 1.
This article was contributed by Fluid and Gas Handling and Parker Energy Teams.
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Often called the fourth utility, compressed air is widely used in most, if not all, industrial facilities. Unlike electricity, natural gas and water that is produced offsite and transported to the facility, compressed air needs to be generated on-site using electricity and an air compressor. In smaller manufacturing facilities, the air compressor might be on the shop floor or a short distance away. In medium to large facilities, the generation of compressed air happens in a designated area - the compressor room. The compressor room will house the necessary generation, treatment, and storage equipment.
Compressor room anatomy
The ideal compressor room contains a significant number of large pieces of equipment. For air generation, most facilities have at least two air compressors but could have more depending on the demand. For air treatment, the compressor room will have multiple filters (particulate, coalescing, water/oil separator) and a dryer. On the storage side, a compressor room should have two storage tanks, a wet and dry storage tank. These pieces of equipment can utilize a lot of space when you add in the necessary clearances for maintenance and cooling. Unless a facility is newer construction and the compressor room has been properly sized, most facilities forgo some of this equipment and keep the essentials due to space constraints. To add another layer of complexity to the space constraints, all of this equipment needs to be connected together using some form of compressed air piping. Some of the choices in compressed air piping can be bulky and require multiple fittings to make the necessary connections, which results in unique routings just to get the machinery connected. These unique routings can also cause a slew of problems. If the routings have too many elbows or tight corners, the system will suffer from pressure drop. Depending on the severity of the pressure drop, this could cause the compressor to overwork which will end up costing the facility more in electricity costs.
The Parker Transair solution
Parker Transair has developed a group of fittings designed to resolve most of the common compressor room routing issues. Our fittings are designed to reduce the labor hours and components required for pipe installations. Like other Transair components, these fittings are reusable and interchangeable to allow for future layout modifications. Years of testing and engineering revisions ensure that every compressor room fittings meets the Transair "Full Bore" promise. "Full Bore" ensures that every Transair component will provide a steady, uninterrupted flow of compressed air from the compressor room to the point of use. Transair compressor room fittings are manufactured from the highest quality materials to enhance corrosion resistance, eliminate leaks and increase energy efficiency.
Available compressor room fittings
Threaded Fittings
For threaded inlets and outlets, we suggest the use of our threaded fittings. To fit the application, Transair offers straights, 45 elbows, and 90 elbows. One end of these fittings is threaded, while the other is either our push-to-connect or snap ring connection technology. All threaded fittings are available in either NPT or BSP threads.
Equal Y
For replacing the traditional tee fitting at the compressor outlet, we suggest the use of our Equal Y fitting. The Y shape reduces sharp corners and promotes the smooth, laminar flow of the compressed air. Transair Equal Ys are available with either our snap ring or clamshell connection technology.
1 Flanged Tee
To create a bypass, we suggest the use of our 1 Flanged Tee. One end of the tee features a flange that can connect to a butterfly or ball valve and then into the storage tank. The other two ends of the flange tee connect to Transair pipe using our clamshell technology. The flanged end is available in either ANSI or ISO standard bolt patterns.
3 Flanged Cross
For making in-line bypasses around filter elements, we suggest the use of our 3 Flanged Cross. Three ends of the fitting feature a flange to connect to a butterfly valve, ball valve, or directly to the equipment. The fourth end connects to the Transair pipe using our clamshell technology. The flanged end is available in either ANSI or ISO standard bolt patterns.
Flange Adapter
For connections that need to be made with a flange, Transair offers flange adapters as part of our offering. Our flanges are available in either ANSI or ISO bolt patterns. The other end of the flange connects to the Transair pipe using either our snap ring or clamshell technology.
Expanding Tee
For connecting the compressor room piping to the main distribution header, Transair suggests using our Expanding Tee. The tees feature one larger end and 2 smaller ends. The large end will connect to the piping coming from the compressor room and the smaller ends will connect to the main distribution header. We also suggest the use of a butterfly or ball valve at this connection for future maintenance activities. Transair expanding tees connect with either our snap ring or clamshell technology.
End Cap w/ Plug
For draining the oil condensate that exits the compressor with the compressed air, Transair suggests the use of our end cap with plug. For the best results, the end cap should be placed and the end of the line, closest to where the pipe connects to the compressor. Transair end caps connect using our clamshell technology and feature a removable threaded plug.
All Parker Transair components are backed with a 10-year warranty against manufacturing defects. To learn more about Transair, visit our website: www.parker.com/transair.
This post was contributed by Jim Tuma, marketing services manager, Parker Fluid System Connectors Division.
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Most manufacturing facilities use compressed air to power their production lines, but improper management of this unseen utility during routine maintenance and emergency situations can have serious consequences. Proper installation and use of a simple device like a pneumatic lockout valve (AKA pneumatic isolation device) can prevent personal injury and death, but most facilities do not take the time to install such devices. Pneumatic lockout valves carry such high importance that OSHA (Occupational Safety & Health Administration) audits facilities for proper lockout/tagout procedures and devices.
The OSHA standard that covers proper use of lockout valves is the Control of Hazardous Energy (lockout/tagout). This standard states that all machinery must have a proper device and procedure to neutralize the energy, thus shutting the machine off during routine maintenance and emergency situations. In fiscal year 2019, OSHA wrote enough lockout/tagout violations that improper control of hazardous energy made it to #4 on their list of Top 10 frequently cited standards. These citations fall into either the Serious or Willful category. A serious violation (substantial probability of injury or death is present) carries a penalty of $13,653 and a willful violation (committed with intentional disregard for OSHA standards) carries a penalty of $136,532. Even with the potential for these hefty fines, most manufacturers do not want to invest in lockout valves. As a cost comparison, lets look at a serious violation ($13,653 per violation penalty) vs the cost of a Parker Transair pneumatic lockout valve. On average, the cost of just one serious violation for improper control of hazardous energy is 45.5 times more than the cost of one Parker Transair pneumatic lockout valve!
OSHA only enforces the use of a energy isolation device (i.e. lockout valve), they do not define what constitutes a lockout valve. The definition of a lockout valve is determined by ANSI B11.0 and PMMI B155.1. These standards list four criteria that a device needs to meet to be considered an energy isolation device:
Now that we know the criteria, lets take each one and analyze how the Parker Transair FLV series of pneumatic lockout valves meets the criteria for an energy isolation device.
1. Be capable of being locked in the OFF position only
The purpose of a lockout valve is to quickly expel the pressurized compressed air in the lines and shutting off the machine. This is done for maintenance and emergency situations. When the handle of the lockout valve is pushed inward, it shuts-off the flow of compressed air and vents the downstream pressure out the exhaust port. Once the handle has been pushed in, a lock can be placed on the handle, preventing the handle from being pulled out and resuming the flow of compressed air to the machine prematurely. Unlike a ball valve that can be locked in both the open and closed positions, the Parker Transair lockout valve can only be locked with the handle is pushed in, cutting off the flow of compressed air.
In the unfortunate event that an emergency shut-off is required, no one wants to be fumbling around trying to find what valve will shut-off the flow of compressed air. To achieve this criteria, Parker Transair lockout valves are painted a bright safety yellow color with a red handle. The yellow and red stands out and is easily identifiable as the compressed air line shut-off.
3. Have a visible pressure indicator
Energy isolation devices need to have some method of visible showing if the device is under pressure or not. The type of indicator is not specified, so a lockout valve can use either an electronic meter or a simple manual pop-up indicator. The Transair lockout valve uses the time tested manual pop-up indicator. On these indicators, the red button will be visible when the valve is under pressure. The red button will retract when the compressed air has been successfully vented from the valve.
Expelling compressed air from a line should be done as quickly as possible. This fact is why all energy isolation devices need to have a large exhaust port. In comparison, a vented ball valve has a tiny port, most of the times less than 1inch! This small hole does not vent the air fast enough and could potentially concentrate the compressed air into a dangerous stream if the pressure gets high enough. For this reason, Parker has engineered our lockout valve to have a bigger exhaust port to expel the compressed air as fast as possible. This expelled air can create a loud whooshing sound. To quiet this action, Parker Transair offers three sizes of silencers to match the exhaust port.
Simplified InstallationTransair lockout valves are available with either a 1/2", 3/4", 1". 1-1/2", or 2" NPT threaded inlet ports. To simplify connections between lockouts valves and Transair aluminum compressed air piping, we suggest the use of Transair threaded connectors. These connectors feature a NPT threaded end to be used on the lockout valve and either a push to connect or snap ring end to connect to Transair aluminum pipe. Our threaded end connectors are available in several different configurations to allow the installation to be customized to the environment. .
Pneumatic lockout valves offer the control over compressed air that manufacturing facilities need. Coupling these valves with a well thought out lockout/tagout procedure document will keep OSHA from citing your facility for improper control of hazardous energy. The Parker Transair lockout valve meets the four criteria that every energy isolation device needs to meet, with the added superior engineering you expect from Parker Hannifin products. Visit our website or contact us to learn more about Parker Transair line of lockout valves, aluminum piping, and FRLs!
This post was contributed by Jim Tuma, marketing services manager, Parker Fluid System Connectors Division.
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The original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts are the best parts to use when replacing a part on a machine. The OEM part will be matched to the original specification of the machine and will give you the confidence that replacement is identical (or better) to what was originally in place. Parker is the OEM that you should trust when it comes to a hose assembly replacement.
Unexpected failures happen to everything, and your hose assembly is no different. According to the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) the average life of a rubber hose is approximately ten years from the date it was manufactured when the conditions are ideal. Of course, in the real world there are several factors like abrasion, pressure spikes, or increased temperatures that could shorten a hoses life.
Being ready when failure happens is important for maintenance. Obtaining an OEM Parker hose assembly replacement has never been easier with PTS tagged hose assemblies. Replacement Parker hose assemblies can now be ordered online, from parker.com and the ParkerStore network and local distributor outlets are here to serve you.
What is a PTS tagged hose assembly?
Parker Tracking Systems (PTS), is an efficient tool that will help you when you need to specify a hose assembly replacement, Each PTS tagged hose assembly has a unique tracking number that provides the details of the hose assembly.
A 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 the configuration specifications you need.
Ordering is easy, start with your PTS ID number and have your hose replacement shipped to you.
Hose repair has never been so easy with ParkerStore HOSE DOCTOR. Limit the interruption of a break and let us bring the solution to you with our mobile, hose repair solution. Trained professionals come to your site with fully stocked trucks to identify, diagnose and replace hose assemblies on hydraulic and pneumatic systems. Plus they're available anytime, day or night, for any of your service and repair needs.
Get the equipment, hose assembly repair and professional advice you need, so that your downtime doesn’t last a long time. Plus, ParkerStore HOSE DOCTOR is backed by our global network, so we're ready when and where you need us with over 1,000 vehicles around the world.
Find a ParkerStore HOSE DOCTOR nearest you or call 1-866-550-HOSE.
Parker distributors are always nearbyParker’s global distribution network is unparalleled in the industry. 13,000 locations worldwide ensure, that Parker customers are serviced by local partners in local language. Our distribution network consists of well-trained, local and independent companies possessing their own expertise within technologies such as instrumentation, pneumatics, hydraulics, etc.
Through this network, customers have instant access to Parker's product range as well as services carried out by our distributors. Under the tab "Where to Buy" on parker.com, you will find the Parker distributor that has the products tailored to your needs.
Own your own Parker components
Sometimes speed is very important. And, nothing is faster than owning your own Parker crimper, hoses and fittings. With an inventory of common replacement parts, you will be in the best position to quickly respond to a need for a hose assembly replacement.
Parker delivers exceptional quality and reliability when it comes to hydraulic crimping equipment and tooling. Factory-quality hose assemblies can be quickly, easily, and cost effectively manufactured with Parker's complete line of equipment and tooling from hose saws, to push-on stands, to hydraulic crimpers, to cleaning and capping systems.
Parker is here to help when failure happens, do not sacrifice quality with anything less than Parker OEM parts.
Article contributed by Matthew Davis, business development manager and
Ulises Navez, product sales manager at Hose Products Division, Parker Hannifin
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Combining innovative thinking with core technological competency can tame the challenges of off-road machinery operating in hazardous mining, agricultural, forestry, material handling, and construction environments. Intelligent system solutions backed by insightful engineering expertise offer increased equipment durability and serviceability as well as worker safety. From major components and systems to the smallest fittings and bolts—our core technologies are leading the way in improvements- from streamlining productivity to efficiency, reliability, and safety. Solutions helping customers improve their off-road machinery’s productivity and bottom line. See for yourself below in our most-read off-road machinery blogs.
Important System Design Considerations for SAE J1926 Ports
By TechConnect Team
Fitting and port dimensions are an exact science. For the design engineers incorporating these fittings into their systems, it may not be obvious what the Critical Dimensions are. Rest assured, the fitting community has meticulously calculated every aspect of the design. The majority of these dimensions are coming from industry standards (some of which have been refined for decades). When you are choosing which fitting to use in your design, there are several considerations you must make to... Continue reading.
Productivity Improved with Multi-Purpose Jaw Bucket
By Hydraulics Team
With six decades of experience and hard-earned know-how, Bob Brooks is an expert in residential and commercial site preparation. He began operating equipment at just 14 years old and for the past 40 years, he has owned his own business. He has customers throughout the Puget Sound and keeps his calendar full through strictly word-of-mouth promotions. Over the course of his 60-year career, he has utilized a wide variety of attachments — and nothing used compares to Parker’s Helac PowerGrip® Multi-Purpose Jaw Bucket in regards to productivity. Continue reading.
Pre-compensated Flow Sharing Can Save Money and Boost Productivity
By Hydraulics Team
As multi-tasking becomes more prevalent in today’s day and age -- texting your mother while picking up groceries and simultaneously catching up on your latest podcast after taking your kids to practice -- it is no different with mobile machinery. In the name of increased productivity and output, operators are pushing machines to their limits by using all the oil in the system to support multi-function control. Continue reading.
Orbital Motors Boost Efficiency Across Ag and Construction Markets
By Hydraulics Team
The world of hydraulic motors is vast with numerous motor types available for various applications. To qualify as a hydraulic motor, a motor must utilize incompressible fluid to convert hydraulic pressure into torque and rotation. In applications that require low speeds (generally less than 1000 rpm) and high torques, an orbital-style, gerotor motor stands above the rest. Continue reading.
New Motor and Generator Solution Supports Cleaner Vehicles of the Future
By Electromechanical Team
Electrification remains one of the primary trends in the automotive sector, as vehicle makers push hard to introduce cleaner technologies that result in lower emissions.
According to a recent report from global professional services company PwC, over 55% of all new car sales could be fully electrified by 2030. Cars of the future will be electrified, autonomous, shared, connected, and yearly updated, it says, in what represents a new era of flexible mobility. Continue reading.
Electrification Lightens the Load in Heavy Lifting Tasks
By Hydraulics Team
A project involving a Parker EHPS (Electro-Hydraulic Pump System) has underlined the significant advantages of adopting the latest electrification technologies as opposed to traditional industrial combustion engine (ICE)-driven systems for mobile heavy lifting applications. The project, conducted in partnership with a leading global OEM, showed how real-world challenges faced by all design engineers – reducing costs, increasing operational efficiency, and protecting the environment – can be overcome. Continue reading.
New Measuring Device Supports Predictive Maintenance in Construction
By Fluid Gas Handling Team
Predictive maintenance is essential to maintaining the value and the long-term, reliable function of expensive machinery and systems. This can be easier said than done. Systems, equipment, and machinery in industry and mobile hydraulics often have complex designs due to increasing requirements, and error analysis can quickly become extremely costly and time-consuming. Parker SensoControl has the solution to these issues, with its broad range of sensors, measurement connections, and different measurement devices. Continue reading.
Redefining Working Under Pressure with Screw-to-Connect Couplings
By Fluid Gas Handling Team
The performance of heavy equipment and machinery is dependent on the reliability of every component. Whether in the factory or out in the field, the failure of a single mechanical element means downtime for repair or replacement. If the fix requires connecting or disconnecting hydraulic lines under pressure—and without fluid loss—rendering the machine operational presents unique challenges. The solution? Screw-to-connect quick couplings. Continue reading.
Virtual Engineering Improves Efficiency of Hydraulic System Design
By Filtration Team
In industries ranging from manufacturing to off-highway, the efficient management of engineering resources is more important than ever as businesses face the acceleration of customer demand for high output at peak performance and reliability. Engineering teams are continually seeking ways to improve existing technologies and hydraulic systems without diminishing the integrity of their designs. The application of high-fidelity simulations is one way that system design engineers are using technology to produce greater results. Continue reading.
Troubleshooting Leaks: Fixing a Leak Coming From a Tube or Swivel Nut
By TechConnect Team
In our first post of this series, Troubleshooting Fluid System Connection Leaks, we gave an overview of how to troubleshoot a system that’s leaking and the areas to focus on. Now that the leak has been located and the probable causes are narrowed down, what should you do to fix it? In this post, we’re going to take a deeper dive into what “A Leakage From a Tube or Swivel Nut” means and what you can do about it.
When it comes to leaks, you should make no assumptions. Continue reading.
Leading with purpose
After more than a century of experience serving our customers, Parker is often called to the table for the collaborations that help to solve the most complex engineering challenges. We help them bring their ideas to light. We are a trusted partner, working alongside our customers to enable technology breakthroughs that change the world for the better.
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The marine market is especially demanding when it comes to high pressure hydraulic connections. These need to withstand the harshest conditions and vibrations. With classic welded connections there can be a need for post-welding pipe inspection X-raying and cleaning-processes that are time-consuming and costly and sometimes the simply do not withstand vibrations and harsh conditions.
The HPF "Parker High Performance Flange System" from Parker Hannifin High Pressure Connectors Europe is now also certified for the high demanding marine market. High-Performance Flanges contribute significantly to a reduction in assembly time and costs of hydraulic flange connections, as it replaces error-prone and time-consuming welded connections.
The modified product range comes with an upgraded one-piece flange design and qualifies the product for marine markets (marine type approvals DNV/GL, LR).
Broad range of sizesParker‘s HPF System has been specially designed and developed to meet todays and future requirements of marine, mobile hydraulic and industrial equipment: high performance and high pressure.
The system is generally applicable for working pressures up to 420 bar. But the design opens the door to go even beyond this pressure rating: by choosing a suitable combination of flange, insert and tube the pressure rating can be increased to 500 bar. The System is adjusted to standard tube dimensions with diameters from 25 to 150 mm and wall thickness up to 20 mm. It is designed for flange patterns according to ISO 6162-1 (SAE J518, code 61), ISO 6162-2 (SAE J518, code 62) and ISO 6164.
Learning from natureThe best solutions for complex design problems can often be found in nature. The flaring of a tube for HPF is similar to the shape of a branch where it joints the trunk of a tree: The tube is flared by hydraulic axial pressure giving it a parabolic shaping, increasing from 10° up to 37°. The initial gentle incline of the shaping guarantees additional safety against strong system vibrations. The DGUV confirmed the capability of this unique, patented system especially for the use in hydraulic and mechanical presses as well as in hydraulic power systems for injection moulding machines. Beside that, the system is an ideal solution for marine and offshore applications. It is type approved by various classification societies like DNV/GL, LR and others.
Special flanging for enormous high-pressure resistance
HPF flanges are equipped with a specially designed and hardened inner grip contour, providing excellent additional tear-off safety for the connection. A soft sealed, shaped insert is placed into the flared end of the tube. The tube side of the insert is equipped with an O-Ring. On the port side the sealing is guaranteed by an O-Ring or by the special profile F37 Seal. The F37 Seal was developed especially for the use with SAE flanges. These special seals guarantee a high form stability. Compared to standard O-Rings, their mechanical properties prevent gap extrusion, even when the flanges “breathe” under pressure. The special profile of the F37 Seal is ideally adapted to higher pressures or unsuitable surface finish of the flanges. The application of these soft-sealing elements both on the port side and tube side guarantees the gas leak tightness of the HPF connector. As the insert does not have a toothed profile, it can be easily assembled repeatdly.
Cost advantages over welded systemsNowadays many tube connections are welded. However, as even the best welding operator may make a mistake, each welding seam has to be tested, leading to an enormous loss of time and a significant cost increase. Even finding trained staffed may be critical. Apart from enormous time savings for the joint preparation itself, High Performance Flanges offer various advantages compared to the welding solution:
Personnel and environment-friendly
By comparing the individual operations for a welded line with Parker flanges connected lines, significant cost savings opportunities become immediately obvious. No vapours putting health at risk are released, in contrast to conventional welding processes. Consequently, usage is possible in locations with high requirements such as, for example, offshore oil platforms. In addition to this flaring machine design errors in the preparation of flanges are virtually unknown. Stress corrosion cracking generated during welding operations is history and the life of the finished tubing system is increased. Cold formed Parflange® technologies save power and energy compared to welding and require neither degreasers nor anti-corrosion agents. When galvanized tubes are used, post-galvanization can be omitted because the zinc-coating is not impaired by flaring. Parker flange connector components are delivered in state of the art Cr(VI)-free surfaces.
For series production and modernization: complete service from one sourceHPF hydraulic connections are not only at home in series production. In modernization and maintenance projects they serve as cost-saving, durable replacements for welded systems.
Of particular interest to project managers is the fact that Parker offers its customers complete solutions for hydraulic piping systems: Parker's "Piping Solutions" modules can include the piping layout, drawing design and documentation, the preparation of hydraulic lines in terms of pipe bending, flanging and cleaning up to installation. The service ranges from on-site construction management and assembly to testing, flushing and documenting the entire system.
This eliminates the need for time-consuming coordination of different contacts and projects can be realized much faster. Learn more about Parker's High Performance Flange System.
Article contributed by Thomas Rüdiger, product unit manager (piping), High-Pressure Connectors Europe Division, Parker Hannifin Corporation
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When truck and trailer OEMs select DOT air brake fittings, a number of considerations frequently come into play including performance, price, assembly time and the ability to customize to their specifications. Another important consideration is the type of thread pattern utilized on the port-ends of DOT air brake fittings. There are two main types of thread patterns typically offered on-air brake fittings, American National Standard Taper Pipe Threads (NPTF) and the straight thread O-ring (STO). Within the heavy-duty trucking industry, pipe threads are a known source for warranty claims. Find out why straight thread O-Ring fittings provide a more reliable seal.
Straight thread O-Ring (STO) fittings originally started in the hydraulic industry as a more reliable replacement for traditional pipe threads. Pipe fittings, or NPTF, feature tapered threads providing the mechanical strength needed to hold the joint together as well as provide the sealing of the connection. Pipe threads require the use of a thread sealant to create a proper seal. This can lead to several issues that will result in leakage. Inconsistent application of thread sealant can lead to leaks and correct application of the thread sealant can be problematic. Pre-applied thread sealant overcomes many of these challenges but is not without its own concerns.
Because pipe threads seal metal-to-metal, there can be some damage to the mating parts. The can lead to damage of either the female or male threaded part, resulting in an inability to remake the connection without leakage and requiring a replacement of one or both components.
Within the heavy-duty trucking industry, pipe threads are a known source for warranty claims. Many air brake system components, such as brake valves and air tanks, utilize NPT threaded ports. Air tanks are manufactured by machining the ports and then projection welding these to the air tank. The welding process can cause distortion to the threads during the heating and cooling of the welding process. When a pipe thread is installed into a port with distorted threads, a proper seal can be hard to achieve. A poor fit will result in air leakage. In addition, backing out the pipe thread to change position can cause issues. This is easily remedied with an STO fitting.
A more reliable alternativeSTO fittings have a male straight thread used to connect and hold the fitting in a female straight threaded port. The threaded connection does not act as a sealing mechanism. Instead, an elastomeric seal or O-Ring is utilized to create the seal and is able to compensate for most variations in the threads of the port. STO fittings are recommended to be assembled to a torque value to ensure accuracy of the seal, which is beneficial for consistent leak-free assembly in the current manufacturing environment.
Pipe threads have been around for many years and are functional. However, in today’s global market place the drive to automate and eliminate variability in products makes the STO fitting a preferred option.
The various types of STO fittings frequently used in the truck market include:
As OEMs continue to eliminate pipe threads from their specifications in order to align with the global industry, this brings up another point. Metric port-ends may be becoming a standard, but the North American trucking industry continues to use imperial size tubing. Converting from a metric port-end to an inch push to connect tube end has generally required the use of an adapter, adding an additional cost. Parker has manufactured one of the only metric STO to inch push to connect DOT rated fittings in the market place to alleviate this issue, eliminating the need for one-off connectors or similar solutions with smaller, less reliable seals.
Parker’s new Push-to-Connect Metric Straight Thread O-Ring fitting is certified to ISO 4039-2 and meets or exceeds D.O.T. FMVSS571.106 and SAE J2494-3 standards for truck and trailer applications. Now available in 1/4”, 3/8”, 1/2” and 5/8" inch tube diameters and MA12, MA16 and MA22 thread studs in straight, 45 Degree Elbow, and 90 Degree Elbow configurations.
If you are looking for a more reliable alternative to pipe threads, Parker can help. Request a sample of the new PTC Metric Straight Thread O-Ring Fitting or locate your nearest Parker distributor to find out more about our full range of STO fittings.
See how Parker is going the extra mile for the transportation industry. View the video now.
Article contributed by Samantha Smith, marketing services manager, Fluid System Connectors Division, Parker Hannifin Corporation.
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