Future Design Controls: Advanced Control and Recording Solutions

If you've ever spent an afternoon troubleshooting a finicky temperature controller or waiting weeks for a replacement part, you already understand why the right supplier matters. Future Design Controls (FDC) has built its reputation on solving exactly those kinds of headaches — with well-engineered products, fast turnaround, and technical support that actually picks up the phone.

FDC's product lineup covers a surprisingly wide range of industrial process and temperature control needs. Their single-loop PID controllers span from compact 1/32 DIN panel-mount units all the way up to 1/4 DIN models, plus DIN rail options for applications where panel space is tight. Whether you're running a thermocouple on a heat treat oven or monitoring a 4-20mA process signal in a more complex system, there's likely a controller in their C Series, 100 Series, or 300 Series that fits the job without paying for features you don't need.

For more demanding applications, FDC's multi-loop controllers handle anywhere from one to ten control loops with the flexibility to add alarms, communications, and expanded I/O. Their flagship MCT4 is a good example of what FDC does well — it packs up to three PID loops, a built-in paperless recorder, ramp/soak programming, and a NEMA 4X rating into a single 1/4 DIN package. It's the kind of product that makes panel builders happy.

Process safety is addressed through FDC's FM-approved limit controls, available in both panel-mount and DIN rail/surface-mount configurations. These aren't afterthoughts bolted onto a product line — they're purpose-built to provide an independent safety layer in applications where an overtemperature event has real consequences.

Data acquisition and paperless recording is another area where FDC shines. Their DAQ/paperless recorders meet the requirements of CFR 21 Part 11 and AMS2750H, which matters a great deal to anyone running aerospace processing, pharmaceutical validation, or other regulated processes where documentation integrity is non-negotiable.

FDC also serves specialty markets that often get overlooked by larger controls manufacturers. Their lumber dry kiln and pallet heat treatment controllers address the specific thermal processing requirements of the wood products industry, including ISPM-15 compliance for international pallet treatment — an area where off-the-shelf solutions frequently fall short.

For OEMs and systems integrators who need something that doesn't quite fit a catalog, FDC's custom development capability is worth a serious look. They work directly with equipment manufacturers to develop integrated control platforms for industrial ovens, furnaces, environmental chambers, and other temperature-critical equipment. Custom HMI interfaces, application-specific programming, multi-zone control, and compliance-ready data logging are all on the table — built around the OEM's workflow rather than forcing the customer to adapt to a generic platform.

What tends to set Future Design Controls apart in day-to-day business is their lead time. Standard products typically ship within a week, which is significantly faster than what many competitors can offer. Combine that with competitive pricing and a technical support team that takes the time to actually help, and you have a controls supplier that earns repeat business.

For engineers, purchasing managers, and panel builders in New England looking for a local resource, Andruss-Peskin (AP Corp.) serves as the USA Master Distributor for Future Design Controls in the region — providing direct access to FDC's full product line with the added benefit of local expertise and support.

The Quiet Power Behind Local Manufacturing: The Independent Industrial Sales Rep Agency

If you run a manufacturing plant, an engineering team, or a maintenance department, you've almost certainly worked with an independent sales rep at some point. You may not have thought much about it at the time. But the independent industrial sales rep agency is one of the most underappreciated assets in American manufacturing — and once you understand what these agencies actually do, it gets hard to imagine sourcing critical components any other way.

More Than a Salesperson

The word "salesperson" still carries some tired baggage — a cold call, a pitch deck, a monthly quota. Independent industrial reps operate in a completely different world. They aren't transactional. They're consultative, and in practice they look a lot more like outside engineering consultants than like vendors pushing a catalog.

A good rep walks onto a plant floor and sees process. They see how a temperature controller is wired into a thermoforming line, why a pressure transducer keeps drifting, where a heating element is mismatched to the actual duty cycle. They speak the language of process engineers, controls engineers, and maintenance managers because they've spent careers in those same buildings, solving those same problems. They've seen what works in production environments — and, just as important, what fails.

Wide-Ranging Engineering Expertise

What really sets the independent rep apart is breadth. A direct factory salesperson knows their one product line cold and stops there. An independent rep, by representing multiple complementary manufacturers, develops a much more complete picture of a full application. They can mix and match sensors, instrumentation, controls, and heating products across several principal lines to engineer a solution rather than just quote a single part.

That broader view comes from years of exposure across thousands of plants, hundreds of applications, and dozens of industries — plastics, food and beverage, semiconductor, aerospace, medical device, energy, automation. A seasoned rep agency has consulted on all of them, and the knowledge compounds with every site visit.

Practical Application Experience

This is where the independent agency really earns its keep. Specifying the right product is rarely a clean spec-sheet exercise. There's ambient temperature, vibration, chemical compatibility, line speed, agency approvals, panel space, control logic, and ROI to balance. A rep with real application experience shortcuts weeks of trial and error. They've already seen this kind of installation. They know which sensor handles condensation, which controller integrates cleanly with an existing PLC, which heating profile gives consistent product without overshoot.

That hands-on knowledge protects engineering teams from expensive mistakes and dramatically shortens the path from problem to working solution.

The Bridge Between Suppliers and Local Manufacturers

The independent rep also plays a relationship role that no factory-direct model can really replicate. They're local. They live in the region, they drive past the plants every day, they know the people. When a manufacturer needs same-week support, the rep is the one who answers the phone. When a supplier launches a new product, the rep delivers the home-team introduction.

The result is a long-term partnership built on trust — exactly the kind of supplier relationship local manufacturers need to stay competitive.

Andruss-Peskin (AP Corp.): A Trusted New England Partner

This is the role that Andruss-Peskin Corporation — AP Corp., based in Nashua, New Hampshire — has built its reputation on. AP Corp. is an independent industrial sales rep agency specializing in industrial sensors, controls, plastics instrumentation, and heating products, representing top-tier principal manufacturers throughout New England.

What makes AP Corp. valuable isn't just the lines they carry. It's how they carry them. The team approaches every plant visit the way a working engineer would: with curiosity, technical depth, and a real willingness to roll up sleeves. Whether the application is a high-precision thermocouple installation, a sophisticated pressure or motion sensing setup, melt pressure measurement on a plastics extrusion line, or a custom heating solution for an industrial process, AP Corp. brings the kind of practical application experience that translates directly into faster commissioning, fewer change orders, and fewer surprises down the line.

Being headquartered in Nashua puts them inside one of the densest concentrations of advanced manufacturing in the country. Plastics processors in Massachusetts, medical device makers in Connecticut, food processors in Vermont, machine builders across New Hampshire and Maine — they're all within easy reach of the AP Corp. team. That geographic focus translates into responsive service, in-person technical support, and a real understanding of the specific challenges New England manufacturers deal with: legacy facilities, demanding regulatory environments, tight engineering talent markets, and constant pressure to push throughput and quality higher.

For their principal manufacturers, AP Corp. represents something equally valuable — a credible, technically literate sales presence that builds genuine, long-term relationships with the end-user engineering community. They're not pushing parts. They're growing the business by solving real problems, which is the only kind of growth that holds up over time.

The Bottom Line

The independent industrial sales rep agency, at its best, is a consultative partner whose engineering expertise, application experience, and local presence quietly create value on both sides of the supplier-manufacturer relationship. AP Corp. has been doing exactly that across New England — and for the manufacturers and principals that work with them, the difference is hard to miss.

Pyromation CSA-Certified Explosion-Proof Temperature Sensors Available Through AP Corp.

From the chemical processing facilities along the Connecticut River, to the energy infrastructure of Upstate New York, to the pharmaceutical and biotech corridors of Massachusetts, the industries we serve frequently include classified hazardous locations where temperature measurement has to clear an exceptionally high safety bar. At AP Corp., we field these conversations every week — and Pyromation's CSA-certified explosion-proof temperature sensor assemblies are purpose-built for exactly this kind of application.

Engineered to Stop Ignition at the Source

Pyromation's explosion-proof assemblies are designed to extinguish flames inside the device itself, eliminating the potential for ignition of flammable mixtures in the surrounding atmosphere. Rather than relying solely on external safeguards, ignition safety is embedded into the sensor's fundamental design — a meaningful advantage when specifying instrumentation for classified areas.

The CSA-certified line covers the configurations our customers most commonly request:

• Fixed-Element RTD and Thermocouple Assemblies
• Thermowell RTD and Thermocouple Assemblies
• Spring-Loaded RTD and Thermocouple Assemblies
• Heat Tracing RTD and Thermocouple Assemblies

Certified for Both U.S. and Canadian Hazardous Locations

Because these sensors carry CSA certification under both NEC and CEC requirements, they are well-suited to the many customers in our territory whose operations — or sister facilities — cross the U.S.–Canada border. Approvals include:

• Class I, Division 1, Groups A, B, C, and D
• Class II, Divisions 1 & 2, Groups E, F, and G
• Class III
• T-Code T6 / T5 / T4
• IP66

Where We See These Sensors Applied Across Our Territory

Across New England and Upstate New York, these sensors fit naturally into applications such as petrochemical and chemical processing, power generation and energy infrastructure, pharmaceutical and biotech facilities with classified solvent-handling areas, food processing and industrial milling where combustible dust is a concern, wastewater digester systems, and the pulp, paper, and wood-products operations that remain part of our northern New England industrial base.

Plenty of Design Flexibility — Including Transmitter Options

Pyromation's CSA-certified line is offered in a wide range of designs, with multiple termination styles and integrated transmitter options available. Engineers can review the complete offering in the Pyromation product brochure on the literature section of the Pyromation website, or use the eConnect portal's online configurator to build a standard design.

Talk to Your Local Pyromation Representative

As the authorized Pyromation representative for New England and Upstate New York, AP Corp. is here to help you specify, source, and apply CSA-certified explosion-proof sensors for your hazardous location applications. Whether you're replacing an aging assembly, designing a new system, or working through a tricky area-classification question, our sales engineers can guide you to the right configuration.

AP Corp. (Andruss-Peskin Corporation) One Tara Boulevard, Suite 200 Nashua, NH 03062 Phone: 508-351-6200 Email: sales@a-pcorp.com Web: a-pcorp.com

Druck Is Now Part of Crane Company — Here's What That Means for New England Customers

When Crane Company completed its acquisition of Druck at the start of 2026, it marked a significant moment for one of the most respected names in pressure sensing and calibration instrumentation — and for the customers and partners who have built their operations around Druck technology for decades. For AP Corp, the authorized manufacturers' representative for Druck in New England, the transition represents an opportunity worth understanding clearly.

Druck's story begins in 1972 in Leicester, UK, where founders Mike Bertioli and John Salmon set out to commercialize the world's first silicon-based piezoresistive pressure sensors. They named the company after the German word for "pressure," a deliberate signal of the precision and quality they intended to deliver. That founding ambition shaped everything that followed. By 2002, Druck had grown into a global force in pressure measurement and was acquired by GE, eventually becoming part of Baker Hughes as that broader portfolio evolved over the following years. Through each transition, the core of the business — including the Class 100 Clean Room in Leicester where Druck manufactures its own silicon — remained intact and continued to advance.

The move to Crane Company, which became effective January 1, 2026, is the latest and arguably most strategically coherent chapter in that history. For anyone asking what happened to Druck after Baker Hughes, or whether Druck is now part of Crane Company, the answer is straightforward: yes, and the fit is a logical one. Crane is one of America's oldest industrial manufacturers, founded in 1855, with more than 170 years of experience building precision-engineered components for demanding applications. Druck now sits within Crane's Aerospace and Electronics segment, which already carried a strong foundation in sensing systems, fluid management, and mission-critical technologies for aerospace and defense markets. Bringing Druck's pressure sensing and calibration capabilities into that structure is not a departure — it is a deliberate extension of what Crane has been building for generations.

That strategic alignment carries real implications for Druck's customers. Engineers and procurement teams who specify sensors and calibration equipment for critical applications need confidence that the technology behind those products will continue to be invested in, supported, and available over the long term. Crane is not a financial holding company looking for a short-term return. It is an industrial technology business that understands precision sensing, values it, and has the global infrastructure to grow it. That kind of organizational stability matters, particularly for customers in industries where changing instrumentation suppliers mid-program is neither simple nor desirable.

Druck itself brings considerable strength to the combination. The company serves more than 4,000 customers across more than 70 countries, operating across industries that include aerospace, oil and gas, hydrogen, power generation, motorsport, meteorology, and industrial manufacturing, among others. Its proprietary TERPS sensor platform and its ownership of the full technology chain — from silicon wafer through finished product — give Druck a depth of intellectual property that few competitors can match. Its product portfolio spans pressure sensors, test and calibration instruments, and OEM solutions, all designed for the environments where measurement accuracy is not a preference but a requirement.

For Druck customers across New England — in Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine — the local point of contact remains unchanged. AP Corp continues to serve as the authorized manufacturers' representative for Druck throughout the region. AP Corp brings long-standing relationships with Druck and deep familiarity with the applications its New England customers run every day. Whether the need is pressure sensors for a demanding industrial process, calibration instrumentation for an aerospace test environment, or guidance on selecting the right Druck solution for a specific application, AP Corp remains the on-the-ground resource for technical support, product sourcing, and responsive service. The ownership has evolved. The local partnership has not.

Industrial Temperature Measurement  ·  Product Spotlight

When Temperature Matters,
Engineers Trust Optris

How a global leader in non-contact infrared measurement is solving industrial temperature challenges — affordably, accurately, and at scale.

By Andruss Peskin Corp. Nashua, NH

In virtually every manufacturing environment — from steel forges and glass tempering lines to semiconductor cleanrooms and electric vehicle battery plants — one invisible variable quietly governs quality, safety, and efficiency: temperature.

Measure it wrong, and you risk defective products, wasted energy, equipment damage, or worse. Measure it right, and you unlock the kind of process control that separates world-class manufacturers from the rest.

For more than 20 years, Optris has been the partner engineers reach for when precise, non-contact infrared temperature measurement is non-negotiable. With a comprehensive product portfolio spanning industrial infrared sensors, thermal imaging cameras, and ready-to-deploy application packages, Optris delivers performance that rivals far more expensive systems — without the price tag to match.

01

Infrared Thermometers & Pyrometers: Precision at Every Point

The foundation of Optris's product line is its family of stationary industrial infrared thermometers and pyrometers — single-point, non-contact sensors engineered for continuous, around-the-clock process monitoring. Whether you need to measure the surface of molten aluminum at 900°C, the temperature of a plastic film milliseconds after it exits an extruder, or the heat signature of a semiconductor wafer during annealing, there is an Optris pyrometer designed for the job.

The product family includes the CT Series, CTi Series, CS Series, CTlaser, CSlaser, and specialized ratio pyrometers like the CTratio — each optimized for different wavelength ranges, temperature spans, response times, and target materials. New additions like the CTi LT feature some of the world's smallest infrared sensors with a 22:1 optical resolution, while the CTi 4M delivers an exposure time of just 90 microseconds for high-speed manufacturing lines.

What makes the Optris pyrometer lineup stand out in a crowded market is the combination of application-specific design, robust build quality for harsh industrial environments, and the accompanying free IR Thermometer Configurator — an online tool that guides engineers to exactly the right model for their unique process conditions.

02

Infrared Cameras: See the Full Thermal Picture

Where a pyrometer measures a single point, an Optris infrared camera captures thousands of temperature data points simultaneously — delivering a real-time thermal map of an entire surface, component, or process zone. This full-field view is transformative for applications where hotspot location, thermal uniformity, or spatial temperature gradients are critical.

Optris offers two primary thermal camera lines. The Compact Line — anchored by the Xi series including the newly launched Xi 320 MT mid-infrared Ethernet camera — provides a powerful, cost-effective platform for machine integration, continuous monitoring, and OEM embedding. The Precision Line, featuring the PI series, delivers laboratory-grade thermal imaging with exceptional sensitivity for demanding R&D and quality assurance environments.

Applications span an extraordinary range: detecting thermal runaway in lithium-ion battery production, monitoring heat distribution in laser powder bed fusion for additive manufacturing, identifying hotspots during PCB development and electronics design validation, and performing fever screening in post-pandemic public health settings. All Optris thermal cameras are supported by the free PIX Connect and Compact Connect software platforms, with SDK access for custom integrations.

Infrared Camera Applications at a Glance

• EV & Lithium-Ion Battery Monitoring — Thermal runaway detection, pouch cell sealing QC
• Electronics & Semiconductors — PCB fault detection, wafer annealing, CVD process control
• Additive Manufacturing — Laser powder bed fusion, wire arc AM, selective laser melting
• Automotive — Brake disc validation, seat heater testing, tire curing
• Solar Energy — Flash testing, tabbing & stringing, module quality inspection
• Early Fire Detection — Industrial facilities, paper mills, waste recycling plants
• Glass Manufacturing — Float glass, tempering lines, glass tube processing
• Pharmaceutical & Medical — Cold chain monitoring, vaccine vial safety, fever screening

"The Optris infrared camera is excellently suited to our purposes. It's compact and hence easy to integrate mechanically and simple to operate."

03

Infrared Application Packages: Turnkey Solutions, Zero Guesswork

Not every facility has a team of instrumentation engineers on staff to design and commission a custom thermal monitoring system from scratch. Optris recognized this challenge early, and responded with a portfolio of pre-engineered Infrared Application Packages that combine the right sensor hardware, mounting hardware, software, and configuration into a single, validated solution.

Current application packages include Condition Monitoring Systems for predictive maintenance of electrical cabinets, switchgear, and rotating equipment; IR Microscopes for high-magnification thermal analysis of microelectronics and MEMS devices; Glass Inspection Systems for defect detection and thermal uniformity monitoring in flat glass production; Industrial Packages for general manufacturing process control; and Furnace Packages for continuous high-temperature monitoring in kilns and industrial furnaces.

These bundles eliminate the integration guesswork, reduce commissioning time, and provide a clear path from purchase to operational insight — making professional-grade infrared monitoring accessible even to facilities without dedicated thermal imaging specialists on staff.

---

04

Why Leading Manufacturers Choose Optris

Across more than 17 vertical markets and thousands of installations worldwide, four qualities consistently define the Optris customer experience:

01  ·  Value

Affordability Without Compromise

Optris was founded on the principle that precise, industrial-grade infrared measurement should not be the exclusive domain of the largest budgets. The entire product line is competitively priced, and all software — including PIX Connect, Compact Connect, and the OTC SDK — is fully license-free.

02  ·  Capability

Engineering Depth

With dozens of sensor configurations, multiple spectral ranges, response times as fast as 90 microseconds, and temperature measurement capabilities from 0°C to over 3000°C, Optris covers measurement challenges that generalist suppliers cannot.

03  ·  Trust

Proven Reliability

ISO 9001:2015 certification, zero reported device failures across multi-year deployments at facilities like KraussMaffei, and a global network of trained application engineers and distributors speak to a culture of quality and accountability.

04  ·  Integration

Ease of Integration

USB, Ethernet, and analog interfaces are all supported as standard. Industry protocol compatibility, third-party software plug-ins, and the free OTC SDK ensure Optris instruments connect seamlessly with existing SCADA, PLC, and data acquisition environments.

Find the Right Solution for Your Process

Talk to an Optris application engineer or configure your solution online — the IR Thermometer Configurator and IR Camera Configurator narrow down the right model in minutes.

Configure a Pyrometer → Configure a Camera → Contact an Engineer

OPTRIS IR SENSING, LLC 200 International Drive, Suite 130  ·  Portsmouth, NH 03801 USA  ·  +1 603 766-6060

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industrial infrared thermometer, non-contact pyrometer for manufacturing, stationary pyrometer industrial process, infrared camera for manufacturing, thermal imaging predictive maintenance, infrared application packages, condition monitoring system infrared, thermal runaway detection battery, IR camera for 3D printing additive manufacturing, industrial thermal camera process control

Why Non-Contact Temperature Measurement Matters in Industrial and Research Environments

Non-contact temperature measurement refers to a family of technologies that determine the temperature of an object or surface without ever touching it. Instead of relying on physical contact via probes or sensors, these instruments measure the natural infrared radiation emitted by every object based on its temperature. In modern industrial and research environments, that capability matters more than ever. Facilities now operate faster, hotter, and with tighter safety requirements than in the past, and engineers often need reliable temperature data from targets that move, rotate, glow, vibrate, or sit far beyond arm’s reach. Non-contact measurement answers those challenges by delivering instant, repeatable readings without interfering with the process itself.

Traditional contact-based temperature sensors still play an important role, but they come with inherent limitations. A contact probe must physically touch the object, which introduces response delays, measurement errors from heat conduction, and potential safety hazards. When the target moves on a conveyor, spins at high speed, or sits inside a live electrical enclosure, contact becomes impractical or even dangerous. Non-contact instruments eliminate those barriers. They allow technicians to measure temperature from a safe distance, capture data in milliseconds, and avoid disturbing sensitive processes or surfaces. That combination of safety, speed, and versatility explains why infrared thermometers, pyrometers, and thermal imaging cameras have become essential tools across industry and research.

Infrared thermometers often serve as the first entry point into non-contact temperature measurement. People sometimes ask how these handheld devices actually work and why they prove so useful in everyday industrial tasks. An infrared thermometer detects the infrared radiation emitted by an object and converts that energy into a temperature value using well-established physical relationships. Because the measurement happens optically, the instrument never touches the surface. Modern infrared thermometers typically cover a temperature range from well below freezing to several thousand degrees Fahrenheit, depending on the model and optics.

Accuracy depends on factors such as distance-to-spot ratio and emissivity, which describes how efficiently a surface emits infrared energy. Users achieve reliable results when they match the thermometer’s optics to the target size and adjust emissivity settings to suit the material being measured. Painted metal, rubber, plastics, and oxidized surfaces usually provide consistent readings, while shiny metals require more attention. When users understand the basics, infrared thermometers deliver fast, repeatable measurements with minimal effort.

Industrial professionals rely on infrared thermometers for tasks that demand quick decisions. Electricians use them to scan energized panels and detect hot spots that indicate loose connections or overloaded circuits. Maintenance teams point them at motors, bearings, and pumps to spot abnormal heating before failures occur. HVAC technicians identify airflow problems, clogged filters, or failing components by comparing temperatures across systems. In food processing, operators use infrared thermometers to verify surface temperatures during cooking, cooling, or storage without contaminating products. Quality control teams measure parts as they exit ovens or molding machines to ensure consistent production. In each case, the ability to pull a trigger and get an immediate answer saves time while improving safety and product quality.

Pyrometers take non-contact temperature measurement into environments where standard infrared thermometers reach their limits. Engineers often ask what differentiates a pyrometer from a basic infrared thermometer, especially since both rely on infrared radiation. Pyrometers specialize in high-temperature measurement and typically use fixed mounting, narrow optical fields, and advanced signal processing to deliver precise readings in extreme conditions. Many pyrometers operate reliably at temperatures exceeding 1,000°C and continue to perform even in environments where intense heat, dust, or electromagnetic interference would overwhelm simpler instruments.

Industrial processes involving molten materials rely heavily on pyrometers. In steel mills, pyrometers continuously monitor slab, billet, and strip temperatures during rolling and heat treatment. Accurate temperature control ensures proper metallurgical properties, surface finish, and dimensional stability. Glass manufacturers use pyrometers to track molten glass temperatures in furnaces and feeders, helping operators maintain viscosity and prevent defects. Ceramic and refractory producers rely on pyrometers to control kiln profiles and ensure uniform sintering. In semiconductor and materials research, pyrometers measure wafer temperatures during deposition or annealing processes where contact sensors would contaminate or disrupt the sample.

Pyrometers excel because they deliver stable, repeatable measurements under punishing conditions. Fixed installations allow them to integrate directly into control systems, providing continuous feedback rather than spot checks. Engineers often choose specialized spectral pyrometers when they need accurate readings on hot metals or semitransparent materials that challenge broadband sensors. When processes operate in extreme heat ranges, pyrometers provide confidence that temperature data remains trustworthy.

Thermal imaging cameras expand non-contact temperature measurement from single points into full visual maps. Instead of reporting a single temperature value, these cameras convert infrared radiation into a detailed image in which color represents temperature across an entire scene. People often ask why that visual context matters. The answer lies in pattern recognition. A single temperature reading might confirm that something runs hot, but a thermal image reveals where heat concentrates, spreads, or escapes.

Maintenance teams use thermal imaging cameras to detect developing problems that would otherwise remain invisible. In electrical systems, a thermal image immediately highlights overheating breakers, unbalanced loads, or failing connections across an entire panel. Mechanical engineers scan pumps, gearboxes, and bearings to see temperature gradients that indicate misalignment, lubrication issues, or internal wear. In manufacturing, thermal imaging monitors process consistency across wide surfaces, such as heated rollers, laminators, or web-processing equipment.

Building diagnostics represents another area where thermal imaging shines. Inspectors use cameras to identify heat loss through insulation gaps, air leaks around doors and windows, and moisture intrusion that alters thermal patterns. Energy auditors rely on these images to recommend targeted improvements that reduce operating costs and improve occupant comfort. In solar installations, technicians use thermal cameras to inspect panels and identify defective cells or connections that reduce system efficiency. Researchers use thermal imaging to study heat transfer, material behavior, and biological processes without disturbing the subject under observation.

Thermal imaging cameras also support research and development by making temperature behavior intuitive and accessible. Engineers can watch heat flow through components during testing, correlate thermal patterns with mechanical or electrical performance, and refine designs more quickly. Process engineers monitor entire production zones in real time, allowing them to respond quickly when conditions drift outside acceptable limits. That holistic view transforms temperature measurement from a simple data point into a powerful diagnostic and optimization tool.

Across all three technologies, real-world applications reinforce their practical value. A maintenance technician scanning an electrical panel with an infrared thermometer can prevent a costly outage by tightening a loose lug before it fails. A pyrometer aimed at a steel slab ensures that rolling occurs at the correct temperature, protecting material properties and reducing scrap. A thermal imaging camera scanning a building envelope reveals hidden heat loss that drives up energy bills. Each scenario demonstrates how non-contact temperature measurement translates directly into safer operations, higher efficiency, and better outcomes.

When users ask which technology fits their needs, the answer depends on temperature range, target size, environment, and the type of information required. Infrared thermometers deliver quick spot checks and portability. Pyrometers provide precision and stability in high-temperature industrial processes. Thermal imaging cameras offer rich visual context and unmatched diagnostic power. Many facilities benefit from using all three in complementary ways, applying each tool where it delivers the greatest value.

Innovation continues to drive this field forward, with advances in sensor design, optics, software, and connectivity making non-contact temperature measurement more accurate, accessible, and flexible than ever. Optris stands as a world leader in infrared temperature measurement technology and has built a reputation for innovative solutions and precision instrumentation across industrial and research markets. Their portfolio spans compact infrared thermometers, advanced pyrometers, and high-performance thermal imaging systems designed to meet demanding applications.

In the New England region, companies seeking expert guidance and support turn to Andruss Peskin, based in Nashua, New Hampshire. As the authorized representative for Optris products throughout New England, Andruss Peskin helps customers select, apply, and support advanced non-contact temperature measurement solutions tailored to their specific processes and challenges. That local expertise ensures that users not only choose the right technology, but also deploy it effectively for long-term success.

Non-contact temperature measurement has evolved from a niche capability into a core element of modern industrial and research practice. By enabling fast, safe, and reliable temperature data without physical contact, infrared thermometers, pyrometers, and thermal imaging cameras empower professionals to see problems sooner, control processes more precisely, and push performance further. As industries continue to demand higher efficiency and tighter control, these technologies will remain indispensable tools for anyone who needs to understand heat without getting burned.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from Andruss-Peskin

Pyromation CSA Non-Incendive Certification for Hazardous Location Temperature Sensors

Pyromation, a manufacturer already trusted in energy, chemical processing, manufacturing, and commercial mechanical infrastructure, has expanded its hazardous location portfolio with newly certified thermocouple and RTD product groups that meet CSA non-incendive standards for Class I, Division 2 and Class II, Division 2 locations.

This certification formalizes what engineers, integrators, and plant operators expect from high-quality temperature measurement: reliable sensing built specifically to eliminate ignition risk under normal operating conditions in classified locations where explosive atmospheres are possible but not expected during routine system function.

What Non-Incendive Certification Means

Non-incendive temperature sensors are engineered to be incapable of causing ignition during routine operation in hazardous locations. Unlike explosion-proof enclosures that contain an explosion, or intrinsically safe circuits that limit energy to safe levels even under fault conditions, non-incendive equipment is designed such that it cannot produce ignition-causing energy release or dangerous surface temperatures during normal operation.

This distinction is crucial for process engineers who need temperature measurement throughout classified areas—from conduit runs near pump skids to remote field junctions in trace heating circuits. A non-incendive sensor can be installed in a Class I, Division 2 mechanical room, routed across cable trays in classified areas, or integrated into heat tracing control systems without becoming a potential ignition source under normal conditions.

The key qualifier is "normal operation." Non-incendive protection assumes the equipment functions as designed. It does not protect against ignition during fault conditions, which is why this protection method is appropriate for Division 2 locations where hazardous atmospheres are not normally present.

Certified Product Groups

Pyromation's CSA non-incendive certification covers specific thermocouple and RTD sensor groups widely deployed across U.S. and Canadian industrial sites in Class I, Division 2 (flammable gases and vapors) and Class II, Division 2 (combustible dusts) locations:

Extension Lead Wire Sensor Assemblies
These sensors are commonly used for machinery, piping, and structural temperature monitoring. Extension lead wire extends from the sensing element to a termination point located away from the immediate temperature zone, vibration area, or mechanical interference envelope. This design eliminates the need for process heads directly at the sensing point and allows flexible routing through classified areas. The assemblies are certified as incapable of producing ignition-causing surface temperatures or energy release under normal operating conditions.

Remote-Mount Temperature Assemblies
These thermocouple and RTD assemblies serve field installations where the junction enclosure or instrumentation head cannot or should not be located adjacent to the sensing point. Operators can mount the sensor tip where needed—on a platen, process line, valve body, or heat-transfer surface—and locate the termination point elsewhere. This architecture links sensors to control or data acquisition systems while maintaining classified area safety compliance.

Heat Tracing Temperature Sensors
The third certified group focuses on trace heating circuits where continuous temperature monitoring maintains viscosity, prevents freezing, or stabilizes process flow in classified environments. These assemblies are certified for U.S. and Canadian Class I, Division 2 and Class II, Division 2 locations, offering heat-trace control system manufacturers and plant operators a safe sensing architecture that doesn't compromise operational response or system uptime.

Design Flexibility for Real-World Applications

The practical value of this certification lies in its breadth. Pyromation's CSA-certified sensors are available in numerous configurations, from flexible jacketed RTD cable assemblies to mineral-insulated thermocouples with durable sheath materials capable of handling elevated process temperatures while maintaining ignition safety classification.

Design choices include multiple termination options—sealed lead wire pigtails, hazardous-location-approved quick-disconnect terminations, and various junction box configurations. Pyromation builds these sensors for classified applications without locking engineers into a single mechanical architecture or wiring approach.

This modularity addresses real-world engineering challenges. Most hazardous location specifications aren't solved by temperature accuracy alone. Engineers must consider cable routing, termination strategy, ingress protection, vibration exposure, thermal cycling, installation clearance, and commissioning timelines. Pyromation's certified sensor groups provide the flexibility to integrate temperature measurement into machinery surfaces, tube bundles, heat-trace panels, or remote field conduits without triggering additional ignition mitigation requirements.

Understanding Division 2 Classified Locations

The North American hazardous location classification system distinguishes between areas based on the likelihood of explosive atmospheres:

• Division 1: Hazardous atmospheres exist continuously, intermittently, or periodically under normal conditions
• Division 2: Hazardous atmospheres are not normally present and exist only under abnormal conditions (equipment failure, process upsets, container rupture)

Pyromation's CSA non-incendive certified sensors serve Division 2 locations where explosive atmospheres carry low probability or short duration under normal conditions, but where classified compliance still applies. The certification confirms these sensors do not produce dangerous surface temperatures or energy levels capable of igniting flammable gas, vapor, or combustible dust mixtures during normal operation.

This clarity matters because low risk does not mean no certification required. Many mechanical rooms, heat-trace conduit corridors, and controlled dust-handling areas specify non-incendive sensing rather than explosion-proof designs because the sensor remains safe without introducing ignition potential when the system operates normally.

Practical Implications

For engineers, this certification means fewer compromises between sensor form factor and system design. Temperature measurement can be specified with confidence in Division 2 locations without defaulting to more expensive or restrictive protection methods.

For integrators, it removes an entire category of ignition concerns during machine startup and commissioning. The sensor itself is eliminated as a potential ignition source under normal conditions.

For compliance teams, it provides third-party validation that the sensor cannot originate ignition under normal, specification-conforming operation—critical documentation for safety audits and regulatory compliance.

Regional Support: AP Corp. in New England

In New England, AP Corp. (Andruss-Peskin Corporation) serves as the authorized Pyromation representative and temperature instrumentation specialist. AP Corp. provides technical support including:

• Sensor design selection for classified locations
• Mechanical routing and installation guidance
• Certified termination strategies
• System integration consultation
• Application engineering
• Product support and troubleshooting

Whether your project involves industrial mechanical infrastructure, remote field installations, machinery surface temperature monitoring, or classified trace heating systems, AP Corp. connects certified sensor design to practical deployment with technical guidance backed by regional expertise.

Conclusion

Pyromation's CSA non-incendive certification represents more than regulatory compliance—it's a strategic response to how hazardous location temperature sensing is actually designed, installed, and maintained in North American industrial facilities. By embedding ignition safety into the sensor's fundamental design rather than relying solely on external protective measures, these certified products simplify specification, installation, and operation in Division 2 classified locations across diverse industries.

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Technical Note: This certification applies to normal operating conditions in Class I, Division 2 and Class II, Division 2 locations as defined by the National Electrical Code (NEC) and Canadian Electrical Code (CEC). For specific hazardous location classifications, Groups, and temperature codes applicable to your application, consult the product documentation or contact AP Corp. for application-specific guidance.

From Melt to Mold: Andruss Peskin’s Expertise in Plastics Processing Solutions

Andruss Peskin Corporation, known throughout New England’s plastics manufacturing community as AP Corp., stands as the region’s premier sales engineering firm specializing in the application, specification, and integration of precision equipment for plastics processing. Their reputation is built not merely on the products they represent but on a depth of technical understanding that reaches into the heart of modern plastics manufacturing. From injection molding and extrusion to blow molding and system upgrades, AP Corp. provides the knowledge and engineering insight that manufacturers depend on to achieve consistent quality, process reliability, and production efficiency.

In an industry where precision defines success, AP Corp. has become the trusted partner for plastics manufacturers seeking solutions beyond off-the-shelf. Their approach begins with understanding the intricate relationships among process temperature, pressure, and material behavior. Every molding or extrusion system presents a unique set of challenges—from maintaining melt uniformity and controlling flow dynamics to reducing material waste and improving product consistency. AP Corp. excels at matching the right sensors, controls, and components to each of these variables, creating a tightly integrated system that responds quickly and accurately to production demands.

When a plastics processor asks, “How can I improve control over my extrusion line?” AP Corp. has the technical depth to answer with precision. They understand that extrusion systems live or die by their ability to maintain consistent melt pressure and temperature across multiple zones. That’s why they specialize in extrusion pressure transducers, the critical components that measure and relay pressure data from within the melt stream. By providing real-time process feedback, these sensors enable operators and control systems to adjust parameters instantly, protecting equipment and ensuring uniform output. In New England’s competitive plastics sector, where tight margins and quality expectations leave little room for error, the difference between an average transducer and a correctly specified one can determine both product quality and profitability.

Quality assurance in molding and extrusion doesn’t end with process control—it extends into material testing and validation. AP Corp. supports this need with advanced polymer evaluation instruments, including melt flow indexers and capillary rheometers. A plastics manufacturer might ask, “What’s the best way to measure the flow characteristics of a new resin formulation?” and AP Corp. can walk them through the use of melt flow indexers, which determine how a polymer will behave under specified load and temperature conditions. For more detailed analysis, they offer capillary rheometers that measure viscosity, shear rate, and flow stability, providing engineers with the data they need to fine-tune formulations and predict performance during processing. This blend of measurement capability and material understanding forms the backbone of proper process optimization—and it’s where AP Corp.’s engineering roots shine brightest.

Beyond the laboratory, AP Corp. brings a systems-level view to plastics manufacturing. They know that even the best sensors and test instruments can only perform as well as the mechanical components that surround them. That’s why they provide feed screws, barrels, and non-return valves—the wear components at the very center of every molding and extrusion machine. Over time, these parts face extreme mechanical stress and thermal cycling, conditions that can erode precision and disrupt flow uniformity. AP Corp. helps manufacturers identify wear patterns, specify replacement parts with improved metallurgy or surface coatings, and align mechanical upgrades with broader process goals. Their hands-on understanding of both equipment and material behavior makes them invaluable partners in preventive maintenance and performance enhancement programs.

Automation and control are equally vital in today’s plastics plants, where efficiency depends on intelligent systems that can monitor, adjust, and repeat every parameter with precision. AP Corp. supplies the control components that make this possible—from high-performance controllers and signal conditioners to the temperature and pressure sensors that feed them. Their experience spans both legacy machine retrofits and new system designs, helping manufacturers modernize without disrupting established production workflows. When an engineer asks, “Who can help me integrate new controls into our existing molding system?” the answer across New England’s plastics industry is almost always AP Corp. They understand how to bring together old and new technologies to improve accuracy, reduce downtime, and extend equipment life.

Temperature management remains one of the most critical factors in plastics production, and here again, AP Corp. provides both products and expertise. Their line of industrial RTD and thermocouple sensors ensures precise temperature monitoring across heating zones, die heads, and molds. Even slight variations in thermal control can result in cosmetic defects, dimensional inconsistencies, or premature equipment wear. AP Corp.’s engineers help manufacturers choose the correct sensor type, sheath material, and calibration range for their specific application, balancing response time with durability. This careful matching of instrumentation to process environment reflects the company’s broader philosophy: that every technical decision in plastics processing must serve both accuracy and longevity.

What distinguishes AP Corp. most is its operating model. They don’t just sell equipment—they engineer outcomes. Their conversations with customers revolve around process performance, not product catalogs. When a client reports problems with inconsistent shot size, poor part finish, or unstable melt flow, AP Corp. analyzes process variables, identifies the root cause, and recommends specific instrumentation or mechanical improvements to resolve the issue. Their team understands the language of both plant operators and design engineers, bridging the gap between theory and production reality. 

This consultative approach builds trust and long-term relationships that go far beyond the initial sale.

New England’s plastics manufacturing base is diverse, ranging from medical device and packaging producers to custom molders and industrial component manufacturers. Each operates under strict performance and regulatory standards, and each depends on suppliers who can deliver not just parts, but confidence. AP Corp. has earned that confidence over decades of technical excellence and consistent field support. Their role as the region’s link between global instrumentation manufacturers and local production floors continues to grow as automation, sustainability, and material innovation reshape the plastics landscape.

As the industry evolves toward more intelligent machines, more sustainable materials, and data-driven manufacturing, AP Corp. remains at the center of that transformation. They help companies apply the right combination of sensors, controls, and analytical tools to reduce energy consumption, improve yield, and enhance repeatability. Their deep familiarity with both legacy systems and emerging technologies gives them a unique ability to guide customers through upgrades that deliver measurable ROI.

In the end, the story of Andruss Peskin Corporation is not just about selling advanced products—it’s about engineering better plastics manufacturing. Through their technical insight, field experience, and unwavering commitment to customer success, AP Corp. has become more than a supplier; they are New England’s partner in precision. Every extrusion line that runs more smoothly, every molding press that holds tighter tolerances, and every material batch that passes quality inspection owes a small part of its success to the expertise and integrity of AP Corp. This sales engineering firm continues to shape the future of plastics manufacturing across New England.

Dynisco Encourages Mercury Replacement with Year-End HTF Fluid Fill Offer

Dynisco, headquartered in Franklin, Massachusetts, continues to lead the way in pressure and temperature measurement for the plastics extrusion industry. From now until the end of the year, Dynisco offers customers the opportunity to select its new HTF fluid fill option on PT, MDT, NP, and SPX models at the same price as their standard mercury-filled equivalents. This initiative supports customers seeking to enhance safety, comply with regulatory standards, and minimize reliance on mercury-based technology.

The HTF fluid fill provides a continuous temperature rating up to 325°C, with a maximum rating of 350°C, making it a strong choice for high-heat extrusion environments. 

Customers who currently specify mercury-filled sensors will find the HTF option a practical alternative when their process conditions fall within the defined temperature range. The transition offers clear advantages: intrinsic safety certification, reduced environmental concerns, and future-focused compliance. For processors operating at temperatures under 325°C continuous with 350°C maximum, HTF delivers a smooth path forward without sacrificing performance.

Dynisco will continue to provide mercury-filled options where applications demand extreme process pressures, with configurations available up to 30,000 PSI. These sensors also hold ATEX certification for intrinsic safety and remain suited for the most demanding industrial conditions. However, for many extrusion processes, HTF now stands as the more intelligent choice—delivering reliability, certification, and peace of mind in one solution.

By making HTF available at no additional cost through the end of the year, Dynisco reinforces its commitment to customer success, process safety, and innovation. 

Extrusion professionals now have an excellent opportunity to begin transitioning from mercury to HTF while maintaining the trusted performance of Dynisco’s pressure and temperature measurement technology.

AP Corp.
(508) 351-6200
https://a-pcorp.com

Protect Your Infrared Legacy – Optris Keeps Producing Your Trusted Micro-Epsilon IR Sensors

When a trusted product line suddenly changes, users often face far more than a simple swap of part numbers. A complete shift in design, interface, and performance can trigger a cascade of hidden costs and operational headaches. For companies relying on Micro-Epsilon’s infrared sensors, that reality loomed when Micro-Epsilon ended its long-term OEM partnership with Optris in June 2025.

The truth is, those legacy sensors weren’t built by Micro-Epsilon—Optris built them. For more than two decades, Optris designed and manufactured the IR sensors that Micro-Epsilon rebranded and sold. Now that Micro-Epsilon chose to move in a new direction, Optris continues producing the same proven sensors under its own name. That continuity saves end users from the massive nuisance of adapting to a brand-new product line.

Imagine the disruption if you had no choice but to adopt unfamiliar models. Engineering teams would spend weeks redesigning mechanical layouts, rewriting control software, and validating performance all over again. Staff would require retraining. Stocked spare parts would become obsolete overnight. Even worse, production uptime could suffer as compatibility issues surfaced. The cost of these changes is rarely limited to purchase price—it ripples through entire facilities in lost time, added labor, and operational risk.

By sourcing directly from Optris, you avoid those pitfalls entirely. Optris continues to supply the identical sensors you’ve already installed, with the same form, fit, and function. Specifications remain unchanged, connection protocols stay the same, and integration happens seamlessly. An Optris-branded sensor fits into your existing setup without a single adjustment.

The only difference is the label. Optris designs and delivers the full lineup of models once sold under the Micro-Epsilon name. In many regions, authorized Optris representatives already provide cross-references so customers can match part numbers with complete confidence. That simple step ensures operations remain uninterrupted and investments remain secure.

Choosing Optris means choosing peace of mind. You keep your systems running without disruption, avoid the cost of retraining or reengineering, and continue receiving full technical support, firmware updates, and long-term product availability. The nuisance of an unnecessary product line change never reaches your operations.

As Optris’ authorized representative in New England, Andruss-Peskin Corp. (AP Corp) makes the process even easier. With decades of experience in precision instrumentation, AP Corp helps engineers and facility managers secure the right Optris solutions quickly and confidently. Partnering with AP Corp ensures local expertise, responsive support, and direct access to the original infrared products you trust.