The Multifaceted Role of Industrial Sales Engineers

The role of an industrial sales engineer is pivotal in the modern industrial landscape, especially in the context of instrumentation used for measuring various parameters like weight, force, sound, color, pressure, size, and temperature. These professionals share their knowledge, expertise, and service and significantly contribute to the application, sales, and support of such instrumentation.

The Multifaceted Role of Industrial Sales Engineers

• Technical Expertise: Industrial sales engineers uniquely blend technical knowledge and sales acumen. Their deep understanding of engineering principles allows them to understand complex instrumentation and its applications in various industrial settings.
• Custom Solutions: Crucial in tailoring solutions to meet specific customer needs. For instance, in selecting the correct pressure measurement instrument for a particular industrial process, the sales engineer assesses factors like range, accuracy, and environmental conditions.
• Product Demonstration and Education: These professionals are skilled in demonstrating the functionalities and advantages of instruments. Their ability to educate customers about the nuances of instruments like colorimeters or thermocouples is essential for successful sales.
• Bridging Gaps: Industrial sales engineers act as a bridge between the manufacturing team and clients. They translate technical specifications into understandable terms for customers and client needs into feasible production goals for manufacturers.
• After-Sales Support: Their role extends beyond sales. Providing technical support and troubleshooting post-purchase ensures customer satisfaction and fosters long-term relationships.

Their Impact on Industries

• Quality Control: In industries where parameters like size, color, and weight are critical (e.g., pharmaceuticals, automotive), sales engineers assist in assuring the correct instruments are applied.
• Safety and Compliance: In sectors like oil and gas, accurate pressure and temperature measurements are vital for safety and regulatory compliance. Sales engineers ensure that the instruments sold meet the required standards.
• Innovation and Development: Their feedback from the field helps in innovating new instruments and improving existing ones, aligning with evolving industry requirements.
• Operational Efficiency: By recommending the most suitable instruments, they help industries optimize processes, enhancing efficiency and reducing costs.

Challenges and Opportunities

The role of an industrial sales engineer is not without its challenges. They must constantly update their knowledge in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. However, this also presents opportunities for continuous learning and professional growth.

Industrial sales engineers are crucial in instrumentation for measurement. Their expertise drives sales and ensures that industries have the right tools to measure and control critical parameters accurately. Their role is a testament to the intersection of technical know-how and customer-centric service, proving indispensable in the industrial world.

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

AP Corp. Voices Support for Israeli Friends & Colleagues

AP Corp. stands in solidarity with our friends and colleagues in Israel during these challenging times. We're relieved to inform you that the Vishay Precision Group factory remains unaffected by the ongoing conflict. Their business operations continue as usual, and we commit to promptly updating you on any changes. Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected.

High-Speed Color Measurement for Modern Manufacturing

Understanding how high-speed spectrometers measure color on manufacturing assembly lines provides a glimpse into the complex world of precision quality control and modern manufacturing techniques.

A spectrometer measures the amount of light absorbed or transmitted across different wavelengths. Color measurement involves analyzing the spectrum of light reflected off an object to determine its color.

In a typical setup on a manufacturing assembly line, a light source illuminates the product or material whose color we want to measure. This light source must remain consistent in its intensity and spectrum because any variation can influence the accuracy of the color measurement.

When the light hits the object, the object absorbs specific wavelengths of light and reflects others. The reflected light then enters the spectrometer. Inside the spectrometer, the light is dispersed, often with the help of a diffraction grating or a prism. This dispersion breaks the incoming light into its constituent colors or wavelengths, similar to a rainbow when sunlight passes through raindrops.

An array of detectors inside the spectrometer captures this dispersed light. Each detector is sensitive to a specific wavelength or a narrow range of wavelengths. By measuring the intensity of light each detector receives, the spectrometer builds a spectrum – a graphical representation of light intensity versus wavelength.

This spectrum effectively captures the color profile of the object, and a computation derives color values, typically regarding color spaces or systems like the CIELAB or RGB. These values provide a quantitative measure of the object's color compared to a standard or reference value.

In a manufacturing assembly line, the speed of this process is paramount. High-speed spectrometers capture and process data in real-time, allowing them to analyze the colors of objects as they race along the line. Suppose the color of a particular product deviates from the set standard. In that case, the system can instantly flag it for inspection or removal, ensuring that products maintain a consistent color quality throughout the production run.

The integration of high-speed spectrometers into manufacturing lines, coupled with sophisticated software, ensures that color consistency and quality meet the strict standards demanded by today's consumers and regulatory bodies. This method not only optimizes the quality of the final product but also minimizes wastage and enhances efficiency in production processes.

Micro-Epsilon stands as one of the top sensor manufacturers globally. For over 50 years, they have consistently provided reliable and high-performance solutions, especially in situations demanding high precision measurement or inspection. Their product line includes sensors for distance and displacement measurement, IR temperature measurement, and color detection, along with systems for dimensional measurement and defect detection.

The Micro-Epsilon colorCONTROL ACS7000, color measurement system, recognizes reference colors through direct comparison and distinctly identifies individual colors based on their coordinates in the color space. Equipped with a high-speed spectrometer, the colorCONTROL ACS7000 excels in applications that require online examination of colors and shades with utmost precision.

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

From Spot Checks to Cumulative Assessments: Understanding Noise Measurement Tools for OSHA 1910.95

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is an agency of the United States Department of Labor, and it is responsible for ensuring that employers provide safe and healthful working conditions for employees in the U.S. One of the ways OSHA accomplishes its mission is by setting and enforcing standards.

OSHA standard 29 CFR 1910.95 relates explicitly to occupational noise exposure. This standard protects workers from excessive noise levels that can lead to hearing loss or other health problems.

Sound level indicators (often called sound level meters or SLMs) and dosimeters are two primary instruments used to measure occupational noise levels. Both devices help employers assess noise exposure and ensure compliance with OSHA's 1910.95 standard on occupational noise exposure. 

1. Sound Level Indicators (Sound Level Meters - SLMs):

• Function: An SLM measures sound pressure levels in the workplace. It provides instant readings of noise levels at a specific location and time.
• Usage:
• SLMs spot-checks or short-term measurements in specific areas or at particular workstations where noise levels might be a concern.
• They can identify areas in the workplace where further noise monitoring or controls may be necessary.
• When using an SLM, it's crucial to consider the weighting scale (typically "A" weighting for human hearing) and the response time (slow or fast).
• Data Collection: SLMs provide a snapshot of the noise level during measurement. They don't offer cumulative exposure data over time. Therefore, while SLMs can determine if a particular location is loud, they don't indicate the length of exposure to that noise level.

1. Dosimeters:

• Function: Dosimeters are wearable devices that measure a worker's cumulative noise exposure over time. They provide a personal noise dose reading based on the intensity and duration of sounds for individual exposure.
• Usage:
• Dosimeters are typically clipped to a worker's clothing and worn throughout the workday. The microphone is usually positioned near the worker's ear to assess the noise exposure accurately.
• They benefit workers who move between different areas or tasks, resulting in varying noise exposures.
• Data Collection: Dosimeters continuously measure and record noise levels, providing a time-weighted average (TWA) over the period worn. This data is crucial in determining worker-level exposure exceeding permissible exposure limits (PEL) set by OSHA or other regulatory bodies.

Compliance with OSHA 1910.95:

• Employers typically start with sound level meters to identify areas or tasks with potentially hazardous noise levels.
• Employers will use dosimeters to monitor individual exposures over the work shift if areas show elevated noise or workers' tasks involve moving between varying noise environments.
• Suppose the noise levels exceed the action level (typically 85 dBA TWA over 8 hours). In that case, the employer must implement a hearing conservation program, which includes further monitoring, audiometric testing, training, and provision of hearing protection.

In summary, while sound level meters provide immediate spot readings of noise levels, dosimeters assess an individual's cumulative exposure over time. Both tools are essential for comprehensively evaluating workplace noise and ensuring compliance with occupational noise standards.

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

Optimizing PCB Testing with the Latest 3-Element Stacked Rosette Strain Gauge Technology

As the demand for thinner, smaller, and more densely populated PCBs increases, Micro-Measurements' new G1350A perfectly fits the bill for evaluating PCBs' stress. Thanks to the flex circuit and pre-attached lead wires, it features a compact design and significantly simplifies the installation process.

A stacked rosette strain gauge is a particular strain gauge designed to measure the typical strains along different directions at a single point. A regular strain gauge measures the deformation or strain of a material in one direction. In contrast, a rosette strain gauge, composed of multiple strain gauges, can measure strain in multiple directions. A stacked rosette strain gauge consists of several individual strain gauges stacked on each other, each oriented in a different direction to measure the strains in various directions at a single point. The stacked rosette configuration allows for a more compact design compared to a planar rosette, where the gauges are arranged next to each other.

Usage on Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs):

• Quality Control: During the manufacturing of PCBs, there may be internal stresses generated due to various processes such as lamination, soldering, etc. These stresses may lead to the PCB's warping, bending, or even cracking. Stacked rosette strain gauges can measure these internal strains at critical points on the PCB to ensure they are within the permissible limits.
• Design Validation: During the design phase of PCBs, engineers use finite element analysis to model and predict the strains and stresses that the PCB will be subjected to during its operation. By attaching stacked rosette strain gauges to the prototype PCBs and subjecting them to real-world operating conditions, engineers can measure the actual strains experienced by the PCB and compare them with the predicted values from the model, helping in validating the design and making any necessary modifications before mass production.
• Failure Analysis: When a PCB fails during operation, it is essential to understand the cause of the failure to make necessary design modifications and prevent similar failures in the future. Stacked rosette strain gauges can be attached to the PCB at locations suspected of experiencing high stresses or strains. By subjecting the PCB to the operating conditions that led to the failure, engineers can measure the strains at these critical points and determine if they were the cause of the failure.
• Thermal Expansion Measurement: PCBs often have components that generate heat during operation, which can cause thermal expansion of the material. This thermal expansion can lead to mechanical stresses and strains on the PCB and its components. Stacked rosette strain gauges can measure these strains accurately and help design PCBs that can withstand these thermal expansions without failure.

Micro-Measurements' G1350A Features:

• Round shaped to facilitate spot installation.
• Minimal form factor of 5.1mm diameter.
• Readily available resistance values: 120 ohm (C4A) + 350 ohm (C4K).
• Flex circuit connection for the most flexible and comfortable gage installation (50mm and 300mm).
• Pre-attached lead wires: 1m or 3m length, 2 or 3 wire configuration.
• Highly compatible with StrainSmart® software for PCB testing application features.

AP Corp.

(508) 351-6200

https://a-pcorp.com

4Sight2 from Druck - Easy-to-Use, Cost Effective and Scalable Calibration Management

Instrument calibration stands as a critical activity in process control industries. It ensures that the tools and devices used to monitor, measure, and control various processes deliver accurate and reliable results. The value of this activity, foundational to production quality, safety, and efficiency, is irreplaceable.

When we speak about guaranteeing quality, instrument calibration takes center stage. Industries like chemical, pharmaceutical, food and beverage, and oil and gas depend heavily on precise measurements to produce consistent, high-quality products. A pharmaceutical company, for instance, cannot afford slight deviations from specified parameters as they could lead to non-compliance with standards or the production of ineffective drugs. Regular calibration of instruments, therefore, forms an essential part of quality control.

Instrument calibration also plays a significant role in maintaining safety, becoming extremely critical when industries work with hazardous substances or high-risk processes. For example, a chemical plant's incorrectly calibrated pressure sensor could lead to over-pressurization and dangerous incidents. In this case, regular calibration can reduce the risk of equipment failure and the associated hazards, thus providing a safer environment for the facility and its workers.

Furthermore, the calibration of instruments can enhance operational efficiency. Instruments delivering accurate readings minimize the likelihood of process anomalies, downtime, and product waste, contributing to the efficiency of operations. By detecting and correcting inaccuracies early on, industries can avert expensive repairs or replacements and potential penalties from regulatory bodies for non-compliance.

4Sight2 from Druck, a Baker Hughes business, offers easy-to-use, cost effective and scalable calibration management  that is equally effective for single use or global multi-site operations. This configurable software is designed to Empower Your Organization to Operate Simply and Securely, connecting your people to instruments, data and enhanced analytics.

With purchase of a new Druck Freemium documenting calibrator you are entitled to a free 4Sight2 Lite license. This hardware + software solution automates your calibration process at no extra cost. Using your free 4Sight2 license with your portable calibrator can achieve:

• Error proof & time saving calibration management
• Up to 40% cost savings
• Asset management tools
• Calibration certificates, compliant and audit-ready data
• Fully paperless and traceable
• Truly global in multiple languages

For more information about Druck products in New England, contact AP Corp.
https://a-pcorp.com
(508) 351-6200

Load Cells: The Vital Component in Precision Weighing

A load cell is a transducer or a sensor that converts force into an electrical signal. In industrial weighing applications, it's a critical and core component used to measure weight or force.

The most commonly used types of load cells in industrial applications are strain gauge load cells, which work on the principle of piezoresistance. When a load or force is applied to the strain gauge, it deforms or changes shape. This change in shape causes a measurable change in the electrical resistance. The change in resistance is proportional to the load applied, meaning the more significant the load, the larger the change in resistance.

This change in resistance is usually minimal, so it's converted into an electrical signal using a Wheatstone bridge configuration. The signal is then amplified and converted into a digital form by an analog-to-digital converter. This digital signal can be interpreted and displayed on a readout device, such as a digital display or a computer.

In industrial weighing applications, load cells are ubiquitous, with applications including weighing scales, industrial scales, batching scales, and load-testing machines. They can measure loads ranging from tiny (a few grams) to large (hundreds of tons).

Load cells are robust and reliable, capable of withstanding harsh industrial environments. They can handle extreme temperatures, high levels of vibration, and other challenging conditions. Additionally, they offer high precision and accuracy, which are critical in many industrial applications.

In addition to their use in weighing, load cells measure tension, compression, and shear forces, making them versatile tools in many industrial processes. They play a significant role in quality, inventory, and process control in various industries, including manufacturing, agriculture, food processing, pulp & paper, power generation, transportation, and construction.

BLH Nobel is a leading weighing and force measurement solution provider, including load cells, weighing modules, and process control equipment. The company is renowned for delivering precision, reliability, and durability, particularly in harsh industrial environments.

KIS Weigh Modules, adeptly deployed on dynamic process vessels amidst harsh, sanitation-intensive areas, have mastered the art of thriving amidst grime and grit. Their performance remains uncompromised and exceptional, even in the most challenging conditions riddled with corrosive acids, potent industrial cleaning agents, acidic vapors, and abrasive granulated powders.

Part of the remarkable performance of the BLH Nobel KIS is its ingenious cylindrical design. KIS beams can be maneuvered within the module's infrastructure, aligning precisely with the direction of the applied weight. The modules feature cylindrical, electro-polished stainless steel, forming an almost friction-free surface, allowing the module yoke to glide effortlessly during thermal expansion and contraction periods.

 

https://a-pcorp.com

(508) 351-6200