WHAT’S NEW: FERROMAGNETIC MONITOR

A Compact PLC

Idec Canada is marketing a compact programmable “logic controller” (PLC) manufactured in Japan. The units, ideal for replacing relay and timer circuits, are being distributed in Canada by Sudbury-based Northern Power Control and distributors in Timmins and North Bay, Ont.

The Micro-1 programmable controller measures 140 mm by 80 mm by 74 mm, has eight inputs and six outputs, has a program capacity of 600 steps and can be expanded to 16 inputs and 12 outputs.

Hydraulic Power Unit

A new portable hydraulic power unit is available from Basic Hydraulics of Welland, Ont.

The unit delivers five gallons per minute at 3,600 r.p.m. and a maximum of 1,800 lb. per square inch.

Features include quick and easy start, air-cooled gas engine and a hydraulic system with pump, filter, cooler and surge suppressor for dependable operation.

High-speed Hoisting

Norcast of Don Mills, Ont. is marketing new spring-loaded guide rollers for high-speed hoisting applications, large-capacity skips and rough conditions on either wood or steel guides.

Features include variable load settings, pneumatic springs, polyurethane or pneumatic tires, and rope twist compensation. They are designed for speeds up to 3,000 ft. per minute and are individually tuned for specific operations.

Engine Wear Monitor

Nepean, Ont.-based Synsys is marketing a computer-controlled ferromagnetic concentration monitor. Developed by Atomic Energy of Canada for the nuclear industry, the sensitivity of the FerroSCAN 210 has been scaled back to parts per million from parts per billion. This enables it to be used to monitor metal wear in engines.

The system traps and releases tiny metal particles (in the range of one to more than 1,000 microns) in the lubrication lines of engines, for example. The system measures the effect of the particles on an oscillator circuit which forms part of the sensor. It thereby provides a real-time measurement of the debris concentration being carried through the fluid line without impeding the flow.

Applications include trend analysis of oil debris concentration in rotating equipment, fault indication in lubricating systems, measurement of filter effectiveness, and monitoring of general machinery health.