Flameless, non-contact induction heating minimizes energy waste by focusing energy only on the part and zone to be heated. Select and monitor power levels from the front panel LCD and sealed touch pad. Remote power control is available for employing contact inputs, analog inputs or optional serial data port. Easily control the length of the heating cycle with a built-in programmable digital timer.
A blog discussing sensors and instrumentation. New products, new technologies, and interesting applications. Types of sensors and instruments discussed include: Analyzers, Color Sensors, Displacement Sensors, Flow Sensors, Industrial Weighing, Instrumentation (Data Acquisition), Load Cells & Instrument Hardware. Machine Controls, Pressure Gauges, Pressure Sensors, Sanitary Sensors, Strain Gages, and Temperature Sensors. Courtesy of AP Corp.
EASYHEAT Induction Heaters from Ambrell Corporation
New Bench Top Series of Shaker Systems from Sentek Dynamics
The BT Series shakers from Sentek Dynamics are designed for demanding vibration test applications. Typical applications included structural analysis, calibration and testing of smaller assemblies. The BT-100 through BT-400 shakers utilize light weight rare earth magnets in lieu of traditional Alnico magnets. The use of these magnets decreases the total shaker mass to a third of similar size system, making these shakers easy to handle and portable.
The systems range in size from 100 N (70 lbf) to 1000 N (224 lbf). Systems 400 N (99 lbf) and smaller are permanent magnet shakers and use lightweight rare earth magnets, making these systems easy to handle and portable. There are three versions of the BT Series of shakers: the BT, BT-M and BT-MTH.
The BT Series is recommended for vibration testing of small assemblies and components. These shakers have armature diameters from 60 mm (2.36 in.) to 120 mm (4.72 in.). The BT-1000 is equipped as standard with Automatic Armature Centering (AAC) and Air-Isolation Feet (AIF).
The BT-M and BT-MTH Series are our modal shakers lines. BT-M will use standard stingers while the BT-MTH is our through-hole version. On the 100 N and 200 N system the BT-MTH offers over double the displacement. The BT-MTH Series allow you to use piano-wire stingers. The BT-1000-M is ideal for the structural and modal analysis of high-mass structures. The addition of ZPR (electronic zero-point regulation and adjustable suspension stiffness) allows the user to pre-load the structure prior to applying a dynamic load.
The new Sentek Dynamics Bench Top and modal exciters are based upon years of practical experience. These systems all exhibit a high lateral stiffness and high force-to-weight ratio. They are specifically designed to help ensure the best possible performance with minimum setup time.
Contact AP Corp. regarding any Sentek Dynamics product in New England and Upstate New York. Call us at (508) 351-6200 or visit our website at https://a-pcorp.com.
Micro-Epsilon Laser Profile Scanners: scanCONTROL LLT3000 and 2500
Micro-Epsilon scanCONTROL LLT3000
Micro-Epsilon scanCONTROL 2500
BLH Nobel KIS Beam Load Cell Technology
About Induction Heating
What is induction heating?
Induction heating is a fast, efficient, precise, repeatable, non-contact method for heating metals or other electrically-conductive materials . An induction heating system includes an induction power supply which converts line power to an alternating current, delivers it to a workhead and work coil creating an electromagnetic field within the coil. The work piece is placed in the coil where this field induces a current in the work piece, which generates heat in the work piece. The coil, which is water-cooled and cool to the touch, is placed around or adjacent to the work piece. It does not touch the work piece, and the heat is only generated by the induced current flowing in the work piece.Induction heating is used in processes where temperatures are as low as 100 oC (212 °F) and as high as 3000 °C (5432 °F). It can be used in brief heating processes that are on for less than half a second and in heating processes that are on for months.
Induction heating is used in domestic and commercial cooking, and in many applications such as melting, heat treating, preheating for welding, brazing, soldering, curing, sealing, shrink fitting in industry, and in research and development.
Learn more about induction heating by downloading the "About Induction Heating Solutions" technical note courtesy of Ambrell Induction Heating Systems.
What is a Binocular Strain Gauge Load Cell?
Load Cells for Weighing Vessels in Hot and Vibration Prone Areas
A case in point is a chemical manufacturer with several, existing three cubic meter batching tanks. It was decided the tanks needed modifications to provide more accurate weighing of the individual ingredients. The existing load cells were experiencing errors due to thermal expansion of the vessel, and the resultant side loads from expansion. Additionally there was a problem with vibration in the plant. A better solution was needed, and whatever the solution would be, the customer made it clear the new weighing system must provide system accuracy in the range of ±0.1%.
An approach to deal mechanically with the thermal cycling while using the same type of load cell was discussed. It involved several mechanical modifications that required significant and costly structural changes.
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| BLH KIS |
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| BLH Controller |
For more information on BLH Nobel products in New England and Upstate New York contact A-P Corp. Call them at (816) 353-6550 or visit them at https://a-pcorp.com.
Plastics Industry Feed Screw Classification White Paper
Glycon Corporation, the industry leader manufacturer of high performance and innovative feed screws, has put together this white paper describing the classifications of feed screws used in the plastics industry.
AP Corp.
https://a-pcorp.com
(508) 351-6200
The Badger Meter Cox EC80 Flow Processor
The Cox EC80 Flow Processor is a programmable electronic processor, providing total compensation to enhance flow meter accuracy, while extending the linear flow range. Packaging is provided for remote, direct or embedded mounting to support most installation or application requirements.The compact design includes both single and dual frequency inputs from 4 or 10 ohm pickups, as well an RTD input and an additional analog input for other temperature inputs. The EC80 processor tracks all variables to compensate for viscous and inertial effects, using proven Strouhal-Roshko algorithms. Enhanced DSP technology allows for exceptional signal characterization using a 32-bit floating point processor at 150 MHz, capable of producing a 100 microsecond speed of response.
Cox EC80 Flow Processor Applications
- Precision monitoring
- Engine test cells and test stands
- On-board automotive and aerospace testing
- Control loops
- Custom OEM flight and commercial applications
Cox EC80 Flow Processor Industries
- Aviation & Aerospace
- Petrochemical, Refining & Chemical Metering
- Process or Industrial
- Test Equipment & Services
For more information, contact AP Corp. Call them at 508-351-6200 or visit their web site at https://a-pcorp.com.
Bonding Strain Gages? 5 Steps to Getting Surface Prep Right!
When bonding Micro-Measurements Advanced Sensors Technology strain gage sensors (CEA, C4A, C5K) you want to ensure an excellent bond. The key element in bonding strain gages is surface preparation.
The video above demonstrates specific procedures and techniques with proven advantages. By precisely following these carefully developed instructions (along with the requisite procedures for gage and adhesive handling), the result will be strong and stable bonds. This video presents a procedure that is simple to learn, easy to perform, and reproducible. Keep in mind, it is very important to pay attention to detail and follow the instructions precisely. The importance of surface preparation for strain gage bonding cannot be understated.
1) Degreasing
Rigorously degrease the gaging area with a good solvent, such as CSM Degreaser or GC-6 Isopropyl Alcohol. Be aware though that some materials (e.g., titanium and many plastics) react with strong solvents. Make sure your solvents do not contain any contaminants2) Abrading
Preliminary dry abrading with 220 or 320-grit silicon-carbide paper is generally required if there is any surface scale or oxide. Final abrading is done by using 320-grit silicon-carbide paper on surfaces thoroughly wetted with M-Prep Conditioner A; this is followed by wiping dry with a gauze sponge. Repeat this wet abrading process with 400-grit silicon-carbide paper, then dry by slowly wiping through with a gauze sponge. Finish with 320 grit on most steels and 400 grit on aluminum alloys.3) Burnishing of Layout Lines
Using a 4H pencil (on aluminum) or a ballpoint pen (on steel), burnish (do not scribe) whatever alignment marks are needed on the specimen.4) Conditioning
Repeatedly apply M-Prep Conditioner A and scrub with cotton-tipped applicators until a clean tip is no longer discolored. Remove all residue and Conditioner by again slowly wiping through with a gauze sponge. Never allow any solution to dry on the surface because this invariably leaves a contaminating film and reduces chances of a good bond.5) Neutralizing
Now apply a liberal amount of M-Prep Neutralizer 5A and scrub with a cotton-tipped applicator. With a single, slow wiping motion of a gauze sponge starting within the clean area and wiping outward in one direction. Repeat the wiping step with a clean gauze pad, again, start in the clean area, wipe though the gage location moving outward in a single stroke to fully dry this surface. Do not wipe back and forth because this may allow contaminants to be redeposited.For proper outcomes, the procedures and techniques presented here should be used with qualified installation accessory products from Micro-Measurements, namely:
- CSM Degreaser or GC-6 Isopropyl Alcohol
- Silicon Carbide Paper
- M-Prep Conditioner A
- M-Prep Neutralizer 5A
- GSP-1 Gauze Sponges
- CSP-1 Cotton Applicators
- PCT Gage Installation Tape
New Product Alert: A Noise Monitoring Station with Built-in Noise Directivity Detection
The SV 200A is a Class 1 sound level meter integrated with a wireless communication via 3G, LAN, Wireless LAN and Bluetooth®. The list of add-ons also includes a built-in electrostatic actuator, GPS module and e-compass. The waterproof power supply is also provided.
The SVANTEK SV 200A is the top-of-the range noise monitoring station with built-in microphones for noise directivity detection. This innovative, new product enables the identification of dominant noise sources providing information about their location both vertically and horizontally. In practice, measuring directionality gives the opportunity to indicate the dominant source of noise in the measurement area or exclude unwanted events.
Four additional microphones located on the sides of the housing use the sound intensity technique to recognize both the vertical and the horizontal direction of a dominant noise source. Leq distribution in angle sectors is saved as time-history and can be used to filter and report data.
The SVANTEK SV 200A can perform a 1/1 and 1/3 octave frequency analysis in real-time and store it as time-history data. It can also record the audio signal for the recognition of noise sources and recalculation of the data.
The advanced alarm function can send email and SMS notifications caused by threshold levels and time events. Status alarms of the SVANTEK SV 200A are also available.
The 3G modem, Wi-Fi and LAN features provide fast Internet transfer to PC with standard internet connectivity. SvanNET enables Internet plug & play and easy management of measurement projects. Irrespective of the type of a public or private sim card, SvanNET will make a connection to allow full access to your data via Web browser. The Bluetooth ® and Wireless LAN features provide a point of access for easy SvanNET application configuration.
For more information on SVANTEK products in New England and New York, contact AP Corp. Call (508) 351-6200 of visit https://a-pcorp.com.
Gas Turbine Monitoring with Kistler Pressure and Acceleration Sensors
AP Corporation is pleased to present Gas Turbine Monitoring with Kistler Pressure and Acceleration Sensors
Kistler high-temperature measuring systems allow measuring thermoacoustics phenomena in harsh environments with extreme temperatures up to 700°C.
- Safe and reliable operation of gas turbines thanks to combustion dynamics monitoring.
- Differential charge amplifier designed for high temperature sensors.
- High temperature acceleration sensors measuring vibrations.
- High temperature pressure sensors measuring pressure pulsations.
- Reliable monitoring with durable sensors in harsh environments and up to 700°C / 1300°F.
- Predict, monitor and analyze combustion dynamics.
- Complete differential, ground insulated measuring chains enable early detection of smallest pressure pulsations.
- Resistant to high temperature (700°C / 1300°F)
- Ex certified and interference resistant (EMI, RF)
- PiezoStar sensing element - not pyroelectric and no popcorn effect
Why Plastics Industry Feed Screws are Designed the Way They Are
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| Download the white paper here. |
The selection of the proper screw for a given injection molding or extrusion application can be critical to its success.
Screw geometry — length-to-diameter ratio, profile, channel depth, compression ratio, helix angle and a host of special design features — has everything to do with how well the screw performs in a given application.There are documented applications where customers have improved production rates or reduced cycle times by 30 or 40% simply by switching to an improved screw design. Similarly, reject rates have been lowered from more than 4-6% to less than 1% by incorporating a custom designed mixing screw.
And experience shows that the amount of color concentrate required to achieve optimum color mix can be typically reduced from 4% (of the total blend) to 2%, just by using an optimized screw design. When considering resin and concentrate costs, payback for an optimized screw and non-return valve design can be almost immediate.
This white paper, published by Glycon Corporation, provides an in-depth look into plastics industry feed screw design.
Vibration Control Systems from Crystal Instruments and AP Corp.
AP Corp. applies, specifies, and supports the sales of Crystal Instruments products in Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, and Maine.
AP Corp.
https://a-pcorp.com
(508) 351-6200
Occupational Health & Environmental Sound and Vibration Meter: The SVAN 977A
The SVAN 977A is a class-one sound and vibration level meter that offers unprecedented state-of-the-art technology designed for general acoustic, occupational health, and building acoustic measurements of vibration and environmental noise. The instrument comes equipped as standard with the SV7052E polarized half inch microphone, the SV12 microphone preamplifier, and the SA22 foam windscreen, as well as a large 16 gigabyte internal memory which can be easily upgraded by a micro SD card. The meter comes equipped with a standard quarter inch photographic thread. On the bottom panel you can locate the usb serial and I/O sockets. There is also a micro SD card slot under the bottom cover and spaces for the four double a batteries. The SVAN 977A is equipped with a super contrast led color display. The instrument's user interface makes both configuration and measurement easier than ever before. The user can easily operate the instrument by selecting the appropriate position from the selected menu lists.
The instrument has 2 general modes of operation: Configuration mode; and measurement performance and results preview mode. The SVAN 977A can be used in the meter mode to perform the real-time 11 octave or 1/3 octave analysis including calculations of statistical levels, and can also perform FFT analysis. For building acoustic applications SVAN 977A offers reverberation time measurements RT60 and building acoustics assistant application for smartphones.
With a special microphone the meter provides measurement range of the ultrasounds up to 40 kilohertz. Measurement results can be viewed indifferent view modes, the set of which you can change and activate depending on the selected measurement function. If you disconnect the microphone preamplifier, you can use the instrument to take vibration measurements simply by connecting a cable and a vibration sensor. SVAN 977A can be easily installed into the SM277 case and used as an outdoor monitoring station thanks to a dedicated modem station which enables connection to the SVAN NET, an advanced server solution supporting remote connection giving users full access to the measurement data via web browser or dedicated application.
For more information, contact AP Corp. by visiting https://a-pcorp.com or by calling (508) 351-6200.
The Three Most Common Types of Temperature Sensors
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| Various types and styles of temperature sensors (Pyromation). |
This post describes the three most popular temperature sensors, how they function, and where they are used.
THERMOCOUPLES
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| Thermocouple illustration showing base metal designs with various types of junctions (Pyromation). |
effect. In the simplest terms, thermocouples produce a micro-voltage between two conductors - joined at each end and made of dissimilar metals - when one junction varies in temperature and the second junction (called the reference junction) is known and maintained at a constant temperature. The corresponding voltage produced at the sensing junction can be measured and directly correlated to the change in the sensing junction's temperature.
Thermocouples are popular and widely used in industrial and commercial temperate systems because they are:
- Cost-effective.
- Provide good accuracy.
- Have a sufficiently linear temperature-to-signal output curve.
- Are available in many different metal alloys for many different temperature ranges.
- Are easily interchangeable.
Thermocouples are commonly found in many industrial processes. Examples are the plastics industry, primary metals, power generation, kilns, industrial boilers, HVAC, gas turbine exhaust systems and and diesel engines. And because they are affordable and easy to produce, thermocouples are also used in many consumer applications, such as residential and commercial cooking and heating equipment.
RTDs
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| Wire wound RTD (Image courtesy Wikipedia) |
RTD’s are popular because:
- They offer considerably higher accuracy and repeatability than thermocouples.
- Can be used up to 600 Deg. Celsius.
- Can be integrated directly on the part to be monitored.
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| Thin-film RTD (Image courtesy of Wikipedia) |
THERMISTORS
Another very common temperature sensing device is the thermistor. Thermistors are also a resistance measuring device similar to RTD’s. However, instead of using a pure metal as the resistance element, thermistors employ a very inexpensive polymer or ceramic resistance element. While these materials are very cost-effective, the downside is the resistance-to-temperature output curve. The change in resistance to a corresponding temperature change is very non-linear, and as such, make thermistors' use practical only within a narrow temperature range.
Thermistors are very inexpensive and have a very fast response making them very attractive in applications where a narrow sensing range exists and cost is important. Thermistors also come in two varieties, PTC, or positive temperature coefficient, and NTC, or negative temperature coefficient. PTC's resistance increases with increasing temperature, while NTC's resistance decreases with increasing temperature.
Thermistors are used widely in food processing in digital thermostats, and for on-board temperature monitoring of electronics and circuit boards. They are also used widely in many consumer appliances.
For more information on any temperature sensing application, contact AP Corp and discuss your requirement with one of their experienced application experts. They can be reached at (508) 351-6200 or visit them at https://a-pcorp.com.
What are Plastics Industry Feed Screws and How Are They Made?
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| Feed screw maintenance. |
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| Diagram of injection molding process. |
An Introduction to Sentek Dynamics Vibration Testing Systems
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| Download the full paper here. |
Although this paper focusses on Sentek Dynamics products, it provides excellent details about shaker technology in general.
Three Types of Common Industrial Sensors: Inductive, Capacitive, and Photoelectric
Three common industrial sensors are inductive proximity sensors, capacitive proximity sensors, and photoelectric sensors.
Inductive sensors can detect a target from 0.5 millimeters to 40 millimeters. They only detect metallic targets and therefore use a magnetic field to detect presence when a ferrous metal enters the magnetic field.
Capacitive proximity sensors on the other hand can detect dielectric materials such as liquids plastic glass, wood and granulated substances as long as it has a dielectric constant of 1.2 or more. Their range is from three millimeters to 15 millimeters depending on the dielectric material to be detected.
Photoelectric sensors have the greatest detection range from one millimeter to 25 meters or more. They operate by the use of an emitter which transmits a beam of light to the receiver. They operate by detecting the presence, or absence, of a light beam sent from transmitter to receiver.
These are three very basic sensor technologies used in many common applications. The video above provides an elementary understanding of the operational differences.
For more information on any industrial or OEM sensor, contact AP Corporation by visiting https://a-pcorp.com or by calling 508-351-6200
The SVAN 971 Class 1 Sound Level Meter
The SVAN 971 is a Class 1 sound level meter and real-time analyzer. It is an ideal choice for industrial hygiene noise measurements, short period environmental noise measurements, acoustics consultancy surveys, technical engineers dealing with noise issues, and general acoustics noise measurements.
The SVAN 971 is an extremely small instrument with options for 1/1 & 1/3 octave analysis. The instrument brings unprecedented state of the art technology to a SLM of this size.The user interface makes both configuration and measurement easier than ever before. For those who don't have time to work with measurement settings, SVAN 971 offers extremely simple operational mode with Start/Stop. Another exceptional feature is built-in self-vibration monitoring providing information about level of vibration that influences the measurement results.
For more information, contact:
Andruss-Peskin Corporation
https://www.a-pcorp.com
(508) 351-6200
















