Process points: precision control I/O; high-pressure valves

Two new products designed to promote precision control and handle extreme conditions were among those introduced to the process control market recently. They include an analog input terminal from Beckhoff Automation and high-pressure valves from Parker Instrumentation.

By Control Engineering Staff November 18, 2004

Two new products designed to promote precision control and handle extreme conditions were among those introduced to the process control market recently. They include an analog input terminal from Beckhoff Automation and high-pressure valves from Parker Instrumentation .

Analog input bus terminal from Beckhoff is designed for measurement applications in high-precision control applications.

KL3356 analog input terminal from Beckhoff Automation is intended for measurement applications in high-precision control processes. With a measurement accuracy of 0.01%, this bus terminal provides direct connection for resistor bridges, strain gauge sensors, and all common analog input signals. Terminals are suited for general-purpose monitoring and controlling important process tasks, such as weighing, dosing, quality assurance, and general monitoring of limit values. Self-calibration promotes precision and stability. The complete circuit calibrates itself at least once every three minutes. Accuracy of the measured values is monitored; a warning signal sounds during violation of the accuracy class, ensuring “safe” measured data. High-pressure hand valves from Parker Instrumentation come with familiar compression tube fitting ends instead of traditional cone-and-thread connections to tubing. Valves operate at up to 15,000 psi/1,034 bar. Joints can be assembled in seconds by tightening a nut. Connections are inherently resistant to vibration, eliminating the need for and cost of a vibration gland commonly used with cone-and-thread fittings. Valves may be used on cold-drawn 1/8-in. hard (unannealed) 316 stainless steel tubing, or thick-walled (annealed) instrumentation-grade 316 tubing. Applications include deepwater oil and gas drilling, and industrial laboratories where products are developed and tested under extreme conditions.

—Jeanine Katzel, senior editor, Control Engineering, jkatzel@reedbusiness.com