Wall-mountable analyzers for use in high-ambient temperature environments
AMETEK Process Instruments’ 993X series of analyzers, encompassing the 993X and 9933, are now IECEx Zone 2 certified for use in locations with up to 60°C (140°F) ambient temperatures. Built with IP66 rated enclosures and utilizing an integrated cooling system, the 993X analyzers can be installed outdoors or in minimally temperature-controlled enclosures, reducing complexity while lowering capital (CAPEX) and operating costs (OPEX). The new 993X configuration option complements the existing ATEX, IECEx, UKEX Zone 1 & Zone 2 and North America Class I Division 2 approvals for analyzers installed in areas with lower ambient temperatures.
Ambient temperatures have been rising at operational sites. The higher temperature rating of the 993X will provide users with an analyzer designed to continuously operate at higher temperatures, with or without temperature-controlled shelters or cabinets. For those users that cannot guarantee continuous cooling of their analyzer shelters, this version of the 993X gives them an additional level of protection for their analyzer investment.
The 993X series of analyzers uses ultraviolet (UV) spectroscopy to measure hydrogen sulfide (H2S), carbonyl sulfide (COS) and methyl mercaptan (CH3SH) in natural gas and biomethane gas streams. These highly advanced analyzers are also used to measure H2S, COS, carbon disulfide (CS2), sulfur dioxide (SO2) and hydrogen (H2) in sulfur removal and recovery operations. Standard features include color touch screen display and Modbus communications.
For > 40 yr, AMETEK Process Instruments has served the hydrocarbon processing industry with a commitment to designing innovative, reliable analyzers that meet the highest safety standard and help achieve improved levels of productivity and process gas quality.
For more information about the new 993X and 9933 gas analyzers, visit www.ametekpi.com.
New closed-loop AI optimization solution powered by reinforcement learning
Imubit, a global leader in closed-loop artificial intelligence (AI) optimization, has launched its Optimizing Brain™ solution and Industrial AI Platform. This is the first reinforcement learning powered AI process optimization technology recognized by ARC Advisory Group, the leading industry research firm, in its new category of Closed Loop AI Optimization (AIO).
Core to the Optimizing Brain solution are its Foundation Process Model™ coupled by reinforcement learning. These capabilities take a data-first approach and transform complex industrial challenges safely into efficient processes. By improving margins, reducing emissions and fostering the development of an AI-savvy workforce, Imubit enables plants to achieve operational excellence in a rapidly evolving industrial landscape.
Trusted by seven of the 10 largest refiners in the U.S., Imubit has > 90 closed-loop AI applications deployed in some of the world’s largest industrial processing plants. Imubit’s technology is delivering tangible results, boosting refinery margins by $0.30/bbl–$0.50/bbl and reducing natural gas consumption by up to 30% in rotary kiln operations.
For more information, visit Closed Loop AI Optimization For Industrial Processes - Imubit.
New system for superior energy and emissions management
KBC (A Yokogawa Company) has launched its Visual MESA® Energy Management System 7.2 (VM-EMS), a comprehensive energy digital twin suite designed to meet the developing needs of modern energy management in processing plants across the hydrocarbon supply chain and other industrial verticals (FIG. 1).
This suite includes four key applications (TABLE 1) that provide tailored tools for managing renewable, conventional and hybrid energy systems, including current and forecasted prices, energy demand or production, storage [e.g., batteries, thermal energy storage devices, H2 tanks] and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. With a single, web-based platform, VM-EMS provides an advanced data and key performance indicator (KPI) management system to facilitate scheduling, real-time optimization and continuous monitoring of energy systems. Whether deployed as individual applications, in combination or as a complete suite, version 7.2 adapts to business needs to reduce energy usage and emissions.
Key features available in VM-EMS version 7.2 include:
Multi-period optimization automated execution seamlessly integrating optimal scheduling with real-time optimization for consistent decision-making.
Enhanced modeling integrates with Petro-SIM® digital twin via its web API to facilitate cloud-based implementations and extend modeling and monitoring capabilities for better accuracy and insights.
Cloud-based infrastructure support new pull/get interface-based on a web API offers flexibility and scalability for evolving business needs, which is compatible with KBC Acuity™ cloud-based infrastructure.
Comprehensive auditing advanced tracking of model changes and events to improve the ability to quickly diagnose real-time data failures and resolve simulation issues.
Enhanced KPIs visualization pyramidal levels and area groupings that allow control room operators to customize their screens for better drill-down visualization of operations and alerts.
The launch of Visual MESA Energy Management System 7.2 technology demonstrates KBC’s commitment to provide advanced energy management and emissions reduction solutions. With its cloud and on-premises deployment options, VM-EMS 7.2 software meets the demands of today’s energy challenges to bring decarbonization to life.
For more information, visit Visual MESA Energy Management System | KBC.
Service and support program to maximize OT system efficiency
Avid Solutions, a system integrator specializing in process expertise and digitally enabled solutions, has launched its new AvidCare service and support program.
Maintaining operational technology (OT) assets such as process control systems, networking and server infrastructure, and information solutions can be challenging. With limited OPEX budgets and gaps in on-staff technical expertise, organizations face operational disruptions, reduced productivity and potential financial losses.
To address these challenges head-on, Avid Solutions’ AvidCare is a tailored and flexible solution designed to meet clients’ needs. By choosing a comprehensive, proactive and personalized support service, systems will always operate at peak efficiency, enhanced reliability, extended lifecycles, and with minimized downtime.
Tailored features include:
Flexible service level agreements (SLAs)
A ticket management system to provide mean time to resolve (MTTR) insights, usage and pareto charts on causes of support calls
No long-term contracts, predictable support costs with transparent terms
Cybersecure ability to provide remote support to view-only, shadow local resources and address issues
Single call-in number, multiple ticket submission pathways
AI-enabled resolution from a tailored database of solutions based on the specific system
System reviews, risk assessments and preventative maintenance
Staffed by engineers in North America who are well-versed in industry systems and understand the urgency of operations, safety and asset utilization
Master automation plans (MAPs) to help plan a 5-yr site OT strategy for support, upgrades and maintainability.
Whether the goal is to enhance system reliability, minimize downtime, or receive expert guidance tailored to specific needs, AvidCare empowers users with the tools and expertise needed to succeed in today’s fast-paced industrial environment.
For more information, visit the AvidCare Support Page.
New flushing ring streamlines ordering, installation with complete, packaged solution
Emerson has introduced the TESCOMTM AGI BR Series Flushing Ring (FIG. 2), a comprehensive packaged solution for flushing and bleeding applications in petroleum refineries, biofuel refineries and petrochemical facilities.
By providing a complete, modular valve assembly with a single part number, the AGI BR Series flushing ring streamlines ordering and allows for easy reordering with customer-specific test requirements. Both traditional BRS “sandwich” and BRW “wafer” style rings are available, as well as the BR7 “integrated bonnet” design, which includes the bleed/flushing functions in the flange ring itself.
Most flushing ring products are sold as separate components and assembled in the field. This often involves onsite welding and non-destructive examination (NDE) requirements such as pressure testing, positive material identification (PMI), dye-penetrant and radiography. In comparison, the AGI flushing ring includes valve assembly, welding, painting and testing in one comprehensive, compact package.
The AGI flushing ring meets piping and instrument class requirements according to the ASME B16.34 standard and is ideal for installation in processes requiring flushing of residue in front of diaphragm seals such as distillation towers, hydrotreaters, coking towers, reactors and separators. The one-piece forged design reduces leak paths and helps minimize emissions compared to conventional products. Fugitive emissions bonnets and ball valves that follow ISO 15848-1 and 2 are also available.
With the flexibility to meet each application, the TESCOM AGI flushing ring features flanged connections that are available in a range of sizes from 1 in.–6 in., pressure class ratings from 1/2 150# ANSI to 2,500# ANSI, and temperature range options from –314°F to 1,000°F (–192°C to 538°C). Additionally, Emerson can provide custom variations and NDE testing to meet specific project requirements.
To learn more, visit https://www.emerson.com/en-us/catalog/tescom-br-series.
Industrial, single-skid heat pump to help accelerate energy transition
Copeland, a global provider of sustainable climate solutions, has launched the Vilter VQ95 industrial heat pump to help customers reduce their carbon footprints. Copeland’s innovative Vilter VQ95 heat pump (FIG. 3) is a single-stage heat pump designed to decarbonize district heating and industrial process heating applications.
Ambitious climate goals and initiatives to reduce dependency on fossil fuel boilers are underway in many parts of the world, with leading companies worldwide making sustainability pledges that target the decarbonization of plants and operations. As a result, the global industrial heat pump market (hardware) is forecast to grow exponentially over the next several years, and in energy-intensive industrial processes the electrification of heating systems is widely recognized as a necessary step. A new report published by McKinsey values the industrial heat pump market at $4 B in 2023 and is estimated to reach $21 B by 2030.
Meeting sustainability targets and integrating industrial heat pump technology into existing facilities will require a simpler solution than the bespoke systems that have typically been built onsite. With the launch of the Vilter VQ95 industrial heat pump, Copeland adds a robust platform of scalable and configurable options to its industrial heating market portfolio. The system leverages Vilter single-screw technology to enable unprecedented simplicity, performance, reliability and flexibility using ammonia (NH3), a natural refrigerant solution that has low global warming potential (GWP). Because the heat delivered far exceeds the energy consumed, industrial heat pumps greatly reduce reliance on fossil fuels and expand opportunities to utilize renewable energy sources. Copeland’s Vilter VQ95 industrial heat pump system balances these characteristics with a compact footprint while maximizing efficiency and minimizing total cost of ownership.
Simple: The system is designed to be intuitive and user-friendly to operate and maintain. The unit’s plug-and-play, modular design has fewer moving parts than multi-stage units and can often be serviced without removing the compressor from the system. Selection and configuration are streamlined by Copeland’s web-based software tool, helping users meet their unique specifications.
Exceptional performance: The Vilter VQ95 industrial heat pump has a high coefficient of performance and exceptional high lift capabilities, often eliminating the need for multistage systems while helping to reduce overall costs.
Reliable: The single-screw compressor delivers industrial-grade performance and reliability. The Vilter VQ95 industrial heat pump is a complete single-stage, closed-loop NH3 system that offers lower maintenance costs and longer times between service periods. Eliminating the oil pump eliminates one of the most common causes of failure.
Flexible: The Vilter VQ95 industrial heat pump has a modular and scalable design. It is available in two compact footprints supporting more than 2,000 standard configurations that provide higher capacity per skid, potentially meeting application requirements with fewer units. With a 1 MW–5 MW heating capacity per skid, its modularity enables systems to be scaled with parallel or serial pipe connections, allowing it to scale in capacity, as needed. Additionally, the Vilter VQ95 heat pump provides a high standard temperature rating of up to 95°C (203°F) high lift capability in a single-stage system.
For more information about the Vilter VQ95 industrial heat pump and other Copeland heat pump solutions, visit Copeland.com.
Innovative pipeline monitoring technology emphasizes operator safety and environmental protection
KROHNE Inc., a leading global manufacturer and supplier of solutions in industrial process instrumentation, highlights PipePatrol, its latest advancement in pipeline leak detection technology. KROHNE’s PipePatrol utilizes AI technology and its central processing unit (CPU)-based leak detection systems can distinguish between genuine leak signatures and nuisance alarms. PipePatrol helps companies drive towards net-zero emissions goals while reducing control room monitoring fatigue.
The technology is designed to provide accurate and reliable leak detection, ensuring the safety and integrity of pipeline systems. By offering measurable KPIs, the system helps operators reduce fatigue and better handle genuine leaks when they arise. The PipePatrol CPU systems streamline monitoring processes, allowing for quicker response times and enhancing overall operational efficiency.
The PipePatrol system's advanced features are instrumental in minimizing environmental impact and enhancing safety. By accurately detecting and localizing leaks, the technology not only prevents environmental damage but also supports companies in meeting stringent regulatory requirements.
The PipePatrol pipeline management system is a comprehensive suite of modules for leak, theft and line break detection, plus monitoring of tightness and lifetime stress that can be applied to oil, gas and multiproduct pipes. KROHNE's solutions are aligned with global efforts to reduce carbon footprints and promote sustainable practices.
KROHNE's latest advancement in detecting true leaks enables control room monitors to react and stop leaks more efficiently.
For more information about KROHNE's pipeline leak detection technologies, visit https://us.krohne.com/en/solutions/monitoring-solutions/pipepatrol-pipeline-management.
New solution for AI-driven knowledge harvesting
Global software developer eschbach, the provider of the Shiftconnector® enterprise manufacturing platform for the process industry, has launched Shiftconnector Smart Solutions. AI-driven, Smart Solutions structures data and isolates important knowledge hidden in everyday information to help identify solutions and solve issues in chemical manufacturing production processes.
In an increasingly complex process manufacturing environment, knowledge management is a critical competitive advantage. eschbach created Smart Solutions to give the entire manufacturing team a way to easily access vital operational information from multiple sources. Combining human skills with an AI-assist results in faster problem-solving and empowers workers to quickly and decisively make better operational decisions.
Process manufacturers generate overwhelming amounts of structured and unstructured data. Without seamless integration of knowledge management tools into daily operations, crucial insights often remain buried within routine work. This hidden intelligence encompasses process, equipment and material issues, along with their solutions. Smart Solutions unlocks this information, empowering operators with the knowledge to optimize performance, reduce defects and minimize downtime.
The advanced Smart Solutions AI module for Shiftconnector is trained on industry and company data that pertains to the specific language and processes used at a company or production site. By understanding user queries and effectively analyzing both structured and unstructured data, Smart Solutions identifies relevant historical information to provide tailored problem-solving recommendations. Massive datasets are intelligently organized and prioritized based on relevance and user feedback, delivering actionable insights within seconds.
These suggestions are not meant to replace human expertise and knowledge, but to augment human abilities and provide a starting place to speed up problem resolution. Operators, technicians, engineers and quality control (QC) managers can quickly find historical precedents for current problems, as well as what actions were taken and what results were achieved. Based on this information and the smart AI suggestions, they can decide the best course of action. In this way, the AI program acts as an experienced mentor and guide, identifying tacit knowledge amassed by large numbers of employees in different operational roles over many years.
A short demo of Shiftconnector Smart Search can be found at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5HZXhN7OUQ8. HP
