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HBM – a market leader in the field of test and measurement – is pleased to announce the dates for its latest series of free webinars, which take place on 21-23 November 2016.

The three webinars, designed to fit in with the challenging time constraints which can often make attending relevant training courses difficult, provide advice and focus on a variety of topics, beginning with ‘How to optimise your mobile road tests’. This webinar offers a clever solution on how to achieve results as quickly as possible when it comes to achieving the high requirements for data logging and analysis, which apply to road tests and determining the load data in the field.

This is followed by ‘Load data acquisition in harsh environments’ which takes place on the 22^nd November and explains the importance of utilising a robust data logging and analysis system in the field.  This webinar will explain how to integrate digital signals like video cameras, GPS and field buses, in addition to analogue sensor signals in harsh environments and moreover, it will demonstrate how measurement data can be conveniently accessed from your office.

Participants are also invited to join Dirk Eberlein, Product Manager of the Perception and Genesis range from HBM on 23^rd November in ‘Multi-channel data acquisition with high sample rate requirements – how to solve the challenge of high data throughput’.  This seminar will explain the usage of a modular and scalable data acquisition system for fast measurements of electrical and mechanical quantities.  Designed to teach participants how to use a modern data acquisition system as a transient recorder, this webinar will also explain how to solve data throughput limitations of standard network connections to be able to measure with very high sample rates and how to synchronise several distributed devices.

Each webinar, which normally takes a maximum of one hour, can be easily accessed at a later date or simply used as a refresher course.  As an added benefit, all registered participants will receive a link to the webinar, via email, after the presentation.

All HBM webinars are free of charge and open to anyone.  However, spaces are limited and are available on a first come, first served basis.  Please reserve your space by booking at the https://www.hbm.com/en/3157/webinars/

For further information, contact HBM on +44 (0) 20 8515 6000 or via email: info@uk.hbm.co.uk or visit www.hbm.com

The vapour permeability of materials controls a huge number of both every day and safety-critical processes in the modern world.  Applications range from the shelf life of foods and drugs, through to print and paper quality, how comfortable our clothes are, vapour losses/gains in buildings, why printers jam, and why products, seals, gaskets and even missile systems leak.

The Versaperm vapour permeability measurement equipment can determine this for virtually any gas and materials over a 1000 ^oC temperature range with various pressure options. 

The Versaperm equipment measures the permeability of both flat materials and complete finished products and enclosures.  An array of different sensors, using different physical principals, enables the equipment to be used to characterise an ever expanding range of materials, compounds, containers, products and laminates.  Commonly measured gasses include water vapour, hydrocarbons, oxygen, CO₂, medical gasses and nitrogen. 

The permeability meter is highly automated and can measure several samples at a time.  It needs very little re-calibration and requires, at most, minimal training.  Sensitivities depend on sensors, gasses and materials but are typically in the PPM (Parts Per Million) range, with PPB (Parts Per Billion) for some materials.  Results are both precise and highly repeatable.

As well as supplying the equipment to companies and standards laboratories, around the world, Versaperm also provide a testing service for organisations that need to measure the permeability of complex materials and assemblages.

Versaperm Ltd
10 Rawcliffe House,
Howarth Road,
Maidenhead,
Berkshire, SL6 1AP, UK

Tel: +44 1628 777668

email: info@versaperm.com

Web: www.versaperm.com

Measurement Computing’s range of easy-to-use and low-priced data acquisition devices, that support Linux operating systems, is growing constantly. Most of MCC’s measurement devices with USB- or PCI-based interface come with open-source device drivers for Linux.

Now the Linux support also covers the latest Ethernet-based measurement devices from Measurement Computing. E-1608 is a 16-bit, 8-channel high-speed multifunction module supporting sampling rates up to 250 kS/s and featuring two analog outputs. The 8-channel temperature measurement device E-TC is designed for easily acquiring any type of thermocouple. TC-32 offers 32 channels for connecting thermocouples directly via miniature size thermocouple connectors. The rack-mountable device is easily expandable up to 64 channels. Finally, E-DIO24 is a digital I/O module that offers 24 lines for monitoring and controlling any system over Ethernet.

Those who are looking for Linux-based boards with integrated high-accuracy measurement capabilities should have a look at Data Translation’s DT7816 and DT 7837 with on-board Cortex-A8 ARM processor. The 16-bit device DT7816 offers 8 simultaneous analog inputs up to 400 kS/s per channel. The DT7837 is designed for sound and vibration measurements providing four inputs up to 105.4 kS/s per channel capable of driving IEPE accelerometer sensors.

Linux support and software downloads are available on the Measurement Computing websites.

www.mccdaq.com

Alicat Scientific (Cambridge) are engineering-driven specialists, experts in instrumentation for flowing systems and dead-ended, non-flowing systems—from nitrogen purging or filter characterization, to vessel pressure control or leak testing applications. Alicat instruments are versatile and easy to use because of a rich feature set, yet provide excellent process control through very fast control response (50-100 milliseconds) and high accuracy.

In addition to the standard features that are present across the product lines—like programming easily through a display interface, a serial connection, or an analog connection—a unique differentiator is the company’s dedication to fast-turn-around special projects that benefit the unique requirements of customers across industry. Project solutions should be available within days, not weeks or months, and further complemented by fast delivery times – again measured in days.

Pressure control applications can be enhanced by multivariate, rapid control, as demonstrated with these four examples: 

Filter Characterization

As illustrated here, an Alicat Differential Pressure Controller is used to characterize a filter’s flow vs. it’s pressure drop curve. The pressure controller is used to set the pressure drop across the filter through measuring pressure before and after the filter. The mass flow meter is used to measure the flow rate required to generate that pressure drop. Alternatively, the flow meter may be placed upstream of the pressure controller, since mass in equals mass out. Advantages: Serial input of the desired pressure drop allows the user to run canned scripts at known time intervals while a common control interface is used for both pressure and flow.

Manufactured Component Leak Characterization

Many manufacturing process end-tests require a fast, accurate and reliable method for leak checking components. This can be accomplished with an Alicat Scientific mass flow meter, sized appropriately for the expected leak rate, and an Alicat Scientific remote-sensing pressure controller, sized for the required pressure. Alicat Scientific mass flow meters have full scale ranges as small as 0.5 SCCM with 200:1 turndown ratio, meaning that flows as low as 0.0025 sccm (2.5 sulm) can be resolved. If plumbed as shown in the diagram, the pressure is controlled at the entrance to the Device Under Test (DUT). A constant bleed though the needle valve allows the pressure controller to precisely hold the pressure at the DUT, ensuring that any flow through the meter after the bypass valve is closed is due either to leakage or to a cooling of the volume of the DUT. So long as the temperature of the DUT is constant, the flow reported at the meter will be the leak rate of the DUT. Reducing dead volume between the flow meter and the DUT and the volume of the DUT itself will reduce the effects of temperature change and make the leak checking process faster.

High-Efficiency Helium Leak Testing

Alicat’s dual-valve pressure controller is designed to conserve costly gases like helium in closed-volume applications. In this example, the pressure controller first evacuates all the air out of the test chamber. Then it refills the chamber with helium to the desired test pressure. The gas analyzer records any helium that passes through the test device. The integrated exhaust valve of the pressure controller opens only when needed, so it maintains test pressures without continuously outgassing helium through a bleed valve.

Backpressure Control with Flow Monitoring

When there is a need to know the flow rate while controlling pressure, Alicat’s mass flow controllers reduce equipment needs to a single instrument. Instead of using a dedicated pressure controller and a separate mass flow meter, set the mass flow controller to control for absolute pressure. The instrument will now control pressure while simultaneously displaying flow rates. In the accompanying illustration, the mass flow controller allows pressure inside the system to build, simulating the internal pressure of a tire, versus the air compressor that is attempting to fill it.

Conclusions

Specialized application engineering knowledge of measuring and control techniques across a wide spectrum of pressure and flow control processes ensures that the optimum solution can be provided. An optimal solution strengthens an end-users specification and quality, whilst eliminating the costs of wastage and down-time.  

Alicat Scientific
2 College Park
Coldhams Lane
Cambridge
United Kingdom
CB1 3HD

E : europe@alicat.com
W : www.alicat.com
T : 01223 472804

Rotronic, the largest Swiss manufacturer of products sold worldwide for the measurement of Humidity, Temperature, Low Dew Point, CO2, Differential Pressure and Airflow, has developed its new Rotronic Monitoring System (RMS). The advanced monitoring system checks, records and visualizes all required measurements in one system and makes them available to the user in the desired form. The data can be retrieved from anywhere, at any time by PC, Mac, tablet or smartphone. The system offers the highest level of performance, flexibility, versatility yet is easy to set up and operate.

The new Rotronic Monitoring system (RMS) provides one complete, flexible and yet simple monitoring solution instead of many fragmented and complex systems working in isolation. The RMS software stores all recorded measurements securely in a system that the user can access at any time, data can be retrieved in any form and integrated into 3^rd party systems. The heart of the system is server software with a secure database. It records all data and events generating a range of alerts or warnings when customer defined criteria are breached. The RMS data loggers transmit the measured values to the software via wireless or LAN communication. The system has already been extensively tested successfully and proven its worth in pilot projects. Customer feedback has enabled the system to continue to evolve, further enhancing many key features.

Rotronic has prepared a short video explaining the Rotronic Monitoring System (RMS) – click here to view

RMS is Highly Versatile

The modular system is suitable for use in laboratories, cleanrooms as well as production and manufacturing processes, stability cabinets and storage facilities throughout the food, pharmaceutical, biotechnology and cosmetic industries. It is highly suitable for monitoring data reliably for building management systems, across industry, museums and art galleries, archive stores and during the transportation of valuable products that are sensitive to variations in humidity and temperature levels. Data loggers record all data continuously with temperature, humidity and many other parameters. Third-party devices and existing systems can be integrated easily, making the RMS extremely flexible and allowing trouble-free expansion at any time. The system sends error messages and alerts by voice call, e-mail or SMS text messages as well as smartphone apps.

RMS has a Wide Reach and Data is Secure

Whether the user is abroad travelling, or working in an adjacent room access to the real-time data is guaranteed at all times. Control and monitoring is possible at any time via PC, Mac, tablet or smartphone. This gives peace of mind and also saves costs. Thanks to the server database and the server software, high availability of the data is guaranteed and data security ensured by https protocols – regardless of the location or terminal device. It is also possible to encrypt all data.

RMS Meets All Regulatory Requirements
The new Rotronic Monitoring System meets all the regulatory requirements of GxP, FDA Annex 11 und 21 CFR 11. Thanks to the technical experts in the research and development department at Rotronic, installation is simple and uncomplicated.

Contact Rotronic to see how we can securely monitor your application or project with remote data access from anywhere on any device. We can fully support the entire system.

Chris Fox, Sales and Marketing Manager

Tel: 01293 571000 email:  instruments@rotronic.co.uk  Web:  www.rotronic.co.uk

Now available from Variohm EuroSensor, Contelec’s recently announced Vert-X 37MT Hall Effect encoder combines a 16-bit single-turn angle resolution with 16-bit multi-turn count (65536 turns) for unconstrained position feedback. Unlike conventional single-turn + multi-turn designs, the Swiss sensor specialists has employed a novel magnetic field measurement technique where no gearing is used or battery required – with the number of turns counted and saved in non-volatile memory that is powered by stored energy from shaft rotation. In this way absolute position is not lost during power down and is immediately available on power-up.

The 24V DC CANopen interfaced encoder’s impressive specifications include independent linearity of +/- 0.1% (360°) with hysteresis to 0.1º and maximum repeatability to 0.1º. The Vert-X 37MT’s speed capability of 3000 rpm speed capability suits servo motor feedback, and with 360 million minimum movements specified, long life is assured. Aimed at heavy duty applications such as construction machinery or agricultural equipment, the highly durable IP68 sealed design includes duplex bearings and all stainless steel external hardware to provide maximum resilience to adverse environmental conditions. Its industry standard DS-406 CANopen device profile, contactless design, and high axial & radial load capability all contribute to straightforward installation, long working life and high-reliability position sensing.

The encoder’s nominal housing dimensions are 55mm long x 36.5 mm diameter.  The standard version includes a size 13 servo mount with a 10 mm diameter slotted and flattened D-shaft and M12-m connector interfacing. Alternative multi-turn options are 2, 8 or 12 turns, or custom configured for the application.

About Variohm EuroSensor

Variohm EuroSensor is a manufacturer, distributor and supply chain partner providing complete sales and application support across a comprehensive range of position, force, pressure, load, and temperature sensor technologies – for demanding measurement applications across industry, construction, agriculture, motorsports, research and more.

www.variohm.com

Pickering Interfaces, a leading provider of modular signal switching and simulation for electronic test and verification, is pleased to introduce their new 2-Slot USB/LXI Modular Chassis.

The new 2-Slot Modular Chassis (model 60-104) offers a small, lightweight form factor ideal for portable, benchtop and space restrictive applications. The chassis is designed for desk or rack mounting and features remote control via USB or LXI Ethernet. Remote control over a network enables the switching function of a test system to be located as close as possible to the target equipment. 

The chassis supports one or two Pickering 3U PXI modules. Possible system configurations include switching matrices up to 1104 cross-points, 396 channel multiplexer or up to 36 channels of programmable resistor/sensor emulation. 

“For quite some time, we have had requests from our customer base for small form factor switching system to address portable applications as well as the need for switching to be as close to the UUT as possible. We now address those needs with the addition of the 2-slot USB/LXI chassis to our catalogue. We feel that there will be a lot of demand from the test community for this product.” commented Keith Moore, CEO at Pickering Interfaces. 

The 2-slot chassis is USB3 compatible and has a fully compliant LXI interface. These communications standards enable the chassis to be controlled directly through standard interfaces found on most personal computers and tablets that support HTML5, offering a very practical route into a variety of applications in the modular test and measurement market.

Pickering Interfaces stands behind all of their manufactured products with a standard three-year warranty and guaranteed long-term product support. Pricing and availability information are supplied on their website at www.pickeringtest.com. 

PCB Piezotronics’ wide range of triaxial accelerometers is backed by the company’s guarantee of Total Customer Satisfaction (TCS) and supported with a field-proven precision-engineered range of mounting accessories including adhesive mounting bases, mounting magnets, tools and triaxial mounting adaptors to ensure best practice for a quality accelerometer installation and avoidance of time consuming errors. Many of the most popular accelerometers and accessories in the range are available from stock for delivery within five working days.

About PCB Piezotronics

PCB Piezotronics is a leading supplier of microphones, vibration, pressure, force, torque, load and strain sensors, as well as the pioneer of ICP^® technology. This instrumentation is used for test, measurement, monitoring and control requirements in automotive, aerospace, industrial, R&D, military, educational, commercial, OEM applications and more. Our Platinum Products programme ensures fast delivery of over 10,000 sensors. With a customer support team of more than 30 Customer Service Representatives and Application Engineers, PCB^® proudly stands behind their products with the services you value most, including 24-hour technical support, a global distribution network and the industry’s only commitment to Total Customer Satisfaction. Visit us at www.pcbpiezoelectronics.co.uk

www.pcbpiezotronics.co.uk

ukinfo@pcb.com

A new rugged and rapid-throughput tester for quality testing wire terminal strength is available from Mecmesin Ltd. Simple controls combine with accuracy and ease of use to make the CrimpTest-1 kN a high-reliability everyday tester, requiring minimal training and maintenance.

Motorised pull testers improve accuracy and reduce operator strain and injury. For added safety, this ergonomically-designed horizontal tester pulls samples away from the user. A single button press runs a test, and just 4 multi-function buttons provide for all settings, operation and RS232 comms output to statistical printers.

Peak force at break is displayed along with clear pass and fail indication. Four speed settings are available: 25, 50, 100 and 200 mm/min (1, 2, 4, 8 in/min). to comply with all regular test standards. Units of force can be displayed in N, kgf or lbf.

This competitively-priced bench tester is designed for continuous use within the production environment, and is IP52 rated against ingress from dust, wire fragments and water.

Versatile fixtures are available for pull testing crimped, soldered or welded terminals, and cable ties, to 1 kN:

• slotted rotary crimp receptacle with stepped loop pin (standard)
• self-tightening cam grip (standard)
• wedge grips for flat or round terminals (optional)
• cable tie fixture (optional)

Applicable international test standards:

• ASTM B913 : Standard test method for evaluation of crimped electrical connections to 16-gauge and smaller diameter stranded and solid conductors
• SAE AS39029 and AS7928 : general specification for terminals, lug: splices, conductor: crimp style, copper
• IEC 60352-2 : solderless crimped connections
• BS 5G 178 (Part 1) : crimped joints for aircraft electrical cables and wires
• DEF STAN 59-71 : crimped electrical connectors for copper conductors
• ISO 1966 : crimped joints for aircraft electrical cables
• NASA-STD-8739.4 : space applications, crimping, cabling and harnessing

For more information: www.mecmesin.com

Commercial and military aircraft rely on complex systems in their operation. Performance and reliability is fundamental, as the wiring systems must withstand tough conditions and environmental fluctuations; a quality that is guaranteed through the aerospace standard. Whether it is a first class business seat or a radar tracking system, aerospace is the most demanding market for cable harnesses and AS9100 criteria must be met to satisfy the requirements of international aviation organisations.

CTL Manufacturing supports many aspects of aircraft operation supplying interconnect solutions, cable assemblies, control box/panel assemblies and electrical sub-assemblies onto the following platforms:

• Ground Support Systems
• Seating & Galley Units
• Avionics
• Control & Actuation Systems
• Test & Simulation Equipment
• Flight Monitoring Equipment & more.

Specialist engineers can provide a wealth of design solutions and product enhancements to satisfy the most challenging of technical requirements.

CTL Manufacturing brings together all their expertise in engineering, project management and quality, to offer the Aerospace market a reliable and trustworthy supplier. They operate a Quality Management System that complies with the requirements of AS9100 Rev C / BS EN 9100:2009 / JIS Q 9100:2009, ISO 9001:2008 and assessed in accordance with EN 9104-001:2013 for the design, manufacture and test of cable assemblies, wiring harnesses, wiring panels, cubicles and electromechanical assemblies.

As a division of Alpha 3 Manufacturing Ltd, CTL Manufacturing can provide stability and longevity in the supply chain. Business relationships with customers are secured and maintained by offering a high level of service, backed up with strong technical support and project management.

For more information, please visit our website www.ctlmanufacturing.com
Alternatively, call +44 (0)1453 794100 or email ctl_sales@alpha3manufacturing.com