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November 29, 2005

The Center for Professional Innovation & Education Announces Two Additions to its Management Team

PHILADELPHIA, November 21 -- The Center for Professional Innovation & Education (CfPIE) is pleased to announce two additions to its management team. William H. Beyer has joined CfPIE as Director of Marketing. Also joining CfPIE, is Ms. Lori Molinari who has been appointed to the position of Registrar.

PHILADELPHIA, PA (PRWEB) November 29, 2005 -- The Center for Professional Innovation & Education (CfPIE) is pleased to announce two additions to its management team.

William H. Beyer has joined CfPIE as Director of Marketing. Mr. Beyer was recently with Learning Tree International and previously was Advertising Manager for FDAnews. Prior to FDAnews, Mr. Beyer was Director of Graduate Programs at the Princeton Review. He holds a BA degree from Hartwick College.

“We are excited to have Bill Beyer joining our organization at a time of significant expansion”, stated Mark Mazzie, Managing Director of CfPIE, “Bill will be a great asset to us as we broaden our offerings in Europe and maintain our position as the leading provider of training to the Life Sciences industry.”

Also joining CfPIE, is Ms. Lori Molinari who has been appointed to the position of Registrar. Ms. Molinari will handle a variety of duties related to course planning, registration and hotel negotiation. She will also assist the Managing Director with the development of course curriculum. Ms. Molinari joins CfPIE from the Academic Discovery Program at LaSalle University and was an Instructor in the English Department at Penn State University.

CfPIE, based in Wayne, PA, is the global leader in medical device, pharmaceutical and biotech training and educational services. Their services have been utilized by more than 600 corporations, federal and state governments and numerous non-profit agencies. A number of these organizations have designated CfPIE as their primary provider of external training courses, including GMP and clinical research training.

This release may contain forward-looking statements as defined by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements present management's expectations, beliefs, plans and objectives regarding future financial performance, and assumptions or judgments concerning such performance. Any discussions contained in this release, except to the extent that they contain historical facts, are forward-looking and accordingly involve estimates, assumptions, judgments and uncertainties. There are a number of factors that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those addressed in the forward-looking statements.

For further information, contact CfPIE at 610-688-1708 or visit us online to access a full list of offerings and current course schedules.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 09:26 PM | Comments (0)

Top 10 Myths You May Hear Concerning Selectrocide™ Chlorine Dioxide for Horticulture

Selective Micro Technologies dispels myths about algae, irrigation, plant and soil health.

Beverly, MA (PRWEB via PR Web Direct) November 29, 2005 -- In response to an unprecedented number of inquiries regarding the use of chlorine dioxide in horticultural applications, Selective Micro Technologies has created a list of Top 10 Myths about Selectrocide® Chlorine Dioxide for Horticulture. Years of scientific study in greenhouse conditions have yielded remarkably effective treatments against algae in greenhouse irrigation systems and on greenhouse surfaces.

Myth #1 — “The product has not been adequately researched for the horticulture market.”
Selectrocide™, a nearly pure aqueous solution of chlorine dioxide, has undergone extensive scientific review by outside laboratories and in field tests specifically tailored to the horticulture market. Gaining EPA registration for a product with disinfection and sanitizing claims requires extensive testing on well-known pathogens by independent laboratories. In addition, outside laboratories have verified the horticultural algaecide and fungicide claims made for the product. Finally, a leading commercial greenhouse worked with the product for over five years to develop protocols optimized specifically to inhibit and control algae. Research continues in the area of improving plant health by marrying this superb oxidizer to greenhouse-specific uses.

Myth #2 — “Growers are not using the product.”
Griffin Greenhouse & Nursery Supplies, the top greenhouse and nursery supplier in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions and one of the largest in the U.S., is managing a product launch of Selectrocide™. Well-respected growers around the United States are currently buying Selectrocide to reduce algae and microbes in irrigation water and improving the conditions for crop production in the greenhouse.

Myth #3 — “It is phytotoxic; it will burn and kill my plants.”
Almost all algaecides, when used at high concentrations, can kill plants. However, one of the advantages of nearly pure chlorine dioxide, which is used globally to purify drinking water, is its efficacy at low concentrations. Five years of extensive in-greenhouse scientific research have demonstrated that 0.25 parts per million (ppm) will keep irrigation systems free of algae, thereby improving plant health and reducing crop loss. The plants are not harmed.

Myth #4 — “It will kill beneficial organisms in my soil.”
Research demonstrates that the recommended levels do not adversely affect beneficial microbes in growing media. Selectrocide™ chlorine dioxide is a nearly neutral oxidizer and does not accumulate in or alter the pH of the soil. In fact, chlorine dioxide actually breaks down harmful byproducts of other antimicrobials such as chlorine. Unlike most other oxidizers, which produce undesirable byproducts, Selectrocide™ chlorine dioxide breaks down to water and oxygen.

Myth #5 — “It is corrosive over time.”
At the application dose concentrations recommended by Selective Micro, Selectrocide™ has shown no evidence of corrosiveness. Only when used at concentrations well above those recommended could chlorine dioxide be corrosive to some typical greenhouse equipment over time.

Myth #6 — “It will "off-gas," causing hazardous conditions.”
Chlorine dioxide is highly soluble and stable in water. The generation process for Selectrocide™ ensures that the chlorine dioxide gas is dissolved in water, where it remains relatively stable. Small amounts of chlorine dioxide gas will leave the solution (i.e., “off-gas”) slowly – over time. As outlined in the product’s technical bulletin and label, avoid breathing fumes when handling concentrated stock solutions, ensure proper ventilation and use approved respirators in certain application conditions.

Myth #7 — “It leaves behind dangerous residual chemicals.”
The patented technology created by Selective Micro, designed specifically to deter the presence of unwanted chemical residuals in the end-solution, produces a nearly pure (greater than 99%) chlorine dioxide solution in water. In addition, using Selectrocide™ precludes the formation of harmful halogenated disinfection byproducts–trihalomethanes and halogenated acidic acids that some other oxidizers generate.

Myth #8 — “It requires high capital outlays.”
“Just add water, and wait.” Merely place a letter-sized envelope in a bucket of water, cover, and wait the label-prescribed time. After the nearly pure solution of chlorine dioxide has generated, dilute to end-use concentrations using more water, and apply with readily available horticultural injectors.

Myth #9 — “It costs more than alternative solutions.”
When total costs and benefits are included, various Selectrocide applications around the greenhouse can cost the same, less, or more than other products used today. Because chlorine dioxide is so effective at killing pathogens at low concentrations and penetrates slime layers to reduce the likelihood of re-contamination, Selectrocide™ chlorine dioxide offers a compelling and superior choice based on both cost and efficacy.

Myth #10 — “All chlorine dioxide products are created ‘equal.’”
Although chlorine dioxide is widely considered “the ideal biocide” because of its unique advantages, all chlorine dioxide products are not the same, and are usually differentiated by the method of generation. Most chlorine dioxide solutions that do not use large chemical generators are “stabilized” chlorine dioxide solutions. In short, they are activated by adding an acid solution, which results in very low yields of chlorine dioxide with high levels of residual by-products at low pH (acidic). Selectrocide’s patented technology makes it possible to generate specific concentrations of nearly pure chlorine dioxide on-site, at neutral pH, using only tap water and with no capital equipment. This is an industry first.

Further information about Selectrocide chlorine dioxide and its use in greenhouse applications can be found at www.selectivemicro.com.

About Selective Micro Technologies
Formed in 1999, Selective Micro Technologies is a private company based in Beverly, Massachusetts. Combining sophisticated science with innovative product design, Selective Micro has invented a proprietary delivery system that controls the rate and efficiency of gas-producing reactions. The competitive advantage of Selective Micro’s products is their ability to generate specific concentrations of greater than 99% pure chlorine dioxide at neutral pH for point-of-use operators, using only tap water, without capital equipment. The Company holds two US patents, and has several other patent applications pending in the US and abroad. Further information is available at www.selectivemicro.com or by calling 978-927-6610 X13.

Selective Micro and logos are registered trademarks of Selective Micro Technologies, LLC. Selectrocide™ is a trademark of Selective Micro Technologies, LLC. © 2005 Selective Micro Technologies. All Rights Reserved.

Media Contact:
John Fitzsimmons
Aspire Communications
781-863-1333

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 09:25 PM | Comments (0)

Ohaus Introduces PS Pocket Scale Series

Low cost PS Pocket Series offers great performance in a portable, durable scale.

Pine Brook, NJ (PRWEB) -- Ohaus Corporation, a leading manufacturer of scales and balances for the laboratory, education, jewelry and industrial markets worldwide, is introducing the PS series line of pocket scales, delivering great performance in a unique, stylish yet functional design.

Smaller than most pocket scales, the PS series allows a comfortable fit in your pocket and, at a mere 2.8 x 0.8 x 3.6 inches, takes up less space in your bag or briefcase, all while offering the superior performance characteristic of all Ohaus balances and scales.

The PS scales feature a unique sliding pan design, allowing the pan to glide back and forward to either to engage and expose or disengage and cover the load cell and display and buttons for operation or transport. Unlike hinged or removable covers, the Ohaus sliding pan decreases the risk of breakage, loss and scale damage.

The lightweight PS Pocket Scale series features overload, underload and stability indicators, auto shut-off and a high contrast, easily readable LCD display, with capacities ranging from 120g to 250g and readabilities of 0.1g. Two “piano style” mechanical buttons provide positive, dependable operation and the unique battery compartment design allows for fast and easy battery replacement.

PS Pocket scales are excellent for use in a wide variety of applications, including field use and field testing for environmental and educational markets, jewelry and agriculture applications among others.

Ohaus Corporation manufactures an extensive line of high precision, portable, industrial and mechanical balances for the laboratory, industrial, education and specialty markets.

Headquartered in Pine Brook, New Jersey, Ohaus Corporation manufactures an extensive line of high-precision electronic and mechanical balances and scales that meet the demands of virtually any weighing need. The company is a global leader in the Laboratory, Industrial, and Education channels as well as a host of specialty markets, including the Food Preparation, Pharmacy and Jewelry industries. An ISO 9001:2000 manufacturer, Ohaus products are precise, reliable and affordable, and are backed by industry-leading customer support. For additional information, contact Ohaus Corporation at 973/377-9000, or visit the web site at www.ohaus.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 09:24 PM | Comments (0)

51-day Return-on-Investment for Hydroforming Plant -- A Real World Documented Case Study

A supplier of pickup truck side-rail frames wanted to reduce their operating costs and increase profitability. They knew that their current process was not cost effective or environmentally friendly, mainly due to the need to dispose of their entire 1,100-gallon coolant system on a weekly basis. The cost associated with this waste was becoming enormous. In addition, the future impact to the environment due to the coolant/lubricant waste was unknown. This prompted the Production Manager to contact Ronningen-Petter due to an article about industrial filtration he saw on the Internet. After a consultation of their complete process, they got more than they bargained for! They installed a Magnetically Coupled Filter (MCF) on their Hydroforming operation, and in addition to a safer process for their workers and environment, they got a 51-day return on investment!

(PRWEB) November 29, 2005 -- A supplier of pickup truck side-rail frames wanted to reduce their operating costs and increase profitability. They knew that their current process was not cost effective or environmentally friendly, mainly due to the need to dispose of their entire 1,100-gallon coolant system on a weekly basis. The cost associated with this waste was becoming enormous. In addition, the future impact to the environment due to the coolant/lubricant waste was unknown.

This prompted the Production Manager to contact Ronningen-Petter due to an article about industrial filtration he saw on the Internet. After a consultation of their complete process, they got more than they bargained for! They installed a Magnetically Coupled Filter (MCF) on their Hydroforming operation, and in addition to a safer process for their workers and environment, they got a 51-day return on investment.

SITUATION
The pickup truck frame manufacturer (the customer) was using press technology to convert a straight mild steel tube into a side-rail, otherwise known as Hydroforming.

As part of the process, coolant is pumped inside of the tube to counteract the forces of the presses to bend and shape the tube into the final product.

After each operation, the coolant goes to an accumulator pit along with oil and metal debris created by the Hydroforming.

This coolant is collected and then put through a series of filtration steps to remove the oil, and then the collected metallic particles from the process.

Periodically, the coolant is pumped out of the pit to a paper-band filter, where the larger metallic particles are removed.

After this first stage, the coolant goes to a series of cartridge filters to remove the smaller metallic particles. This is known as a staged-filtration process.

The customer had a number of challenges for the Ronningen-Petter MCF filter. First and foremost, the system had to be able to withstand the rigors of this 24/7 operation.

Initially, the customer sought to have the MCF -- with 25-micron slotted elements -- replace the cartridge filter. As with any disposable media filter, the cartridge costs were high, as well as the labor costs to change out the media.

In addition, there were the cost to refill the system with chemicals and water -- upwards of $500 each time -- and the disposal costs. All of which were eating in to the bottom line.

Most importantly, the oil and debris content of the coolant system were such that the customer had to dispose of their entire 1,100-gallon system on a weekly basis.

This meant downtime to the manufacturing process to enable them to pump out the system capacity, and subsequently refill the system with fresh coolant.

SOLUTION
The customer decided to install a single Ronningen-Petter MCF filter on the front-end of the process ahead of the first stage, or paper band filter.

Although the ultimate goal was to replace the cartridge filter, the customer wanted to see what influence the MCF might have on the entire system if it was installed at the beginning.

If that challenge was not enough, the customer installed the filter when the coolant system was at its dirtiest, and would normally need replacing.

Clearly, the customer was going to give the MCF a rigorous test.

RESULTS
To the customer's surprise, after eight-weeks of operation, they had not replaced a single cartridge filter.

In addition, the customer was able to disconnect the paper-band filter altogether because the coolant quality coming out of the MCF rendered the paper-band filter useless.

If that was not enough, according to the Production Manager the coolant in the system was “the cleanest we had ever seen." Moreover, they had "not needed to replace the coolant in the system during the entire time the MCF was installed."

This meant that over the eight-week operating time, the customer had saved approximately 8,800 gallons of coolant!

An added benefit -- in the customer's eyes -- was the amount of oil the MCF was removing.

The oil was agglomerating to the metallic debris in the coolant, and when the debris was removed from the screen, and ultimately purged from the filter, the oil was purged along with it. As a result, the buildup of oils in the coolant was reduced significantly.

Due to this very successful installation, the customer realized measurable savings on:

 The reduced usage of cartridge filter elements.

 The elimination of the labor to change out the cartridges.

 The reduced disposal costs for the cartridges.

 The extended life of the coolant system ( 8 weeks + vs. 1 week ).

 Machine uptime as a result of the extended coolant life.

This truly was a case where the performance of a Ronningen-Petter MCF industrial filter exceeded our customer's expectations!

--by Ask Filter Man

For questions about industrial filtration, please visit the Ask Filter Man forum at http://www.rpaprocess.com/Ask-Filter-Man-Blog.asp.

If you would like to discuss this filtration solution with one of our highly trained Applications Specialists, please visit http://www.rpaprocess.com/ContactUs/Contact-Us.asp.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:17 AM | Comments (0)

November 24, 2005

Woodward Labs Takes on the Predicted Pandemic Bird Flu

Woodward Labs HandClens Alcohol-free Instant Hand Sanitizer

Aliso Viejo, Calif. (PRWeb) November 23, 2005 -- Delivering on its promise to help the public stay healthy, Woodward Labs is offering to Retailers a free 1.8 liter (60 oz.) dispenser of HandClens Alcohol-Free Instant Hand Sanitizer to reduce the spreading of germs and help Retailers increase their sales on these products. The great benefit of prominently placing the dispenser is consumers will be able to try before they buy giving Retailers an edge in moving more product and catering to both consumers and their own employees health. Woodward is the first to offer this program.

The popularity of Instant Hand Sanitizers has exploded, especially alcohol-free, since the announcement of a possible pandemic bird flu. Woodward continues to be a leader in helping school systems and the workplace to reduce their absenteeism by minimizing the spreading of germs. In fact, clinical studies demonstrate up to a 42% reduction in absenteeism (clinical documentation available).

“All Instant Hand Sanitizers are not created equal,” says Dr. Kenneth B. Gerenraich, DPM, CEO of Woodward Laboratories and developer of HandClens. Woodward’s HandClens is a unique patented formulation. It’s alcohol-free and is a 2-in-1 sanitizer & lotion. Its germ-killing ingredient is antimicrobial which has broader activity than anti-bacterials because it kills 99.99% of all three types of germs (bacteria, fungus and viruses) within 15 seconds. Lethal to germs, yet gentle to skin, HandClens contains Allantoin to soothe, smooth, soften and promote healthy skin development. Just rub into ones hands and no rinsing is necessary. There are also several benefits of this alcohol-free formulation, the first and foremost being safety. HandClens is non-flammable so it’s safe to use in any environment. It won’t dry out skin which can be uncomfortable in winter weather conditions and it won’t hurt or burn if you have cuts or scrapes.

“I love the way HandClens feels on my hands – it makes my hands softer,” says Trish Cardino, mother of three. “The travel size easily fits into my purse.”

Many Retailers are already selling HandClens. Woodward’s ABC (Always Be Clean) program now offers Retailers a 1.8 liter dispenser of HandClens to each store for entryways or pharmacy areas when they purchase HandClens new displays in either a .5oz. handy travel size (purse/backpack), 1.7 oz. foamer (car, desk or briefcase) or a case of Woodward’s new 8 oz. for home or offices.

“We’re excited to partner with retailers in helping consumers and employees reduce illness absenteeism says Dr. Gerenraich.

More information about the HandClens ABC Program and the free 1.8 liter (60 oz.) HandClens dispenser is available by contacting Woodward Labs at 800-780-6999.

About Woodward
Woodward Labs, incepted in 1992, is the manufacturer of renowned antimicrobial germ-killing skincare products that provide a healthier way of living. Woodward uses its patented proprietary delivery systems into their footcare and nailcare products such as Mycocide NS Nail solution, Mycocide CX Callus Exfoliator and its Diabetic Basics line.

Please visit our website at www.woodwardlabs.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 01:03 AM | Comments (0)

November 22, 2005

Sludgebusting: On-The-Fly Or Overnight

Choices for Cleaning Hot-Oil Systems

(PRWEB via PR Web Direct) November 21, 2005 -- Paratherm Corporation has given their Hot-Oil System Cleaning Liquids line a new name; The Sludgebusters™.

Both the Paratherm SC™ system cleaner and the Paratherm LC™ system cleaner will remove the sludge and carbon that tends to build up in thermal-fluid systems over time. But the two products work in very different ways, are applied with different methods, and work on distinct time lines.

Heat Transfer Fluid (also called thermal fluid or hot oil) systems can foul due to oxidation, overheating, or both. How the maintenance department chooses to clean the system depends on production schedules, labor schedules, and other operational factors. Paratherm has a Sludgebuster to meet each.

With smaller systems that are shut down regularly, or that need to be cleaned quickly and put back on line, Paratherm SC is a liquid that will do a thorough job overnight or over a weekend.

In larger systems that tend to run 24/7, the Paratherm LC is the Sludgebuster that cleans the system while it runs. Replace 10% of an existing fluid charge with the Paratherm LC cleaner liquid, and run it until the next scheduled maintenance stop.

Hot-oil systems control temperatures in manufacturing processes in industries such as plastics, foods, chemicals, packaging, converting, pulp and paper, petrochemicals, textiles, and die casting.

Both the Sludgebusters are available in 5-gallon pails or 55-gallon drums.

About Paratherm Corporation
Paratherm Corporation's product line has grown to seven heat transfer fluids and two high-performance system-cleaner liquids, but the service mission of Paratherm Engineers and Staff has remained the same; to use their thorough knowledge and experience with thermal systems and heat transfer fluids, their relationships with heater and equipment manufacturers, and their focused attention on the needs of customers, to deliver smoothly operating systems and applications, and maximum production, to processors that choose Paratherm.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 01:55 AM | Comments (0)

November 21, 2005

Mesothelioma.com Comes Out Strong Against Proposed Asbestos Legislation

Mesothelioma.com today announced its opposition to Asbestos Bill S.852 believing it is under-funded, unworkable, and unconstitutional.

(PRWEB) November 19, 2005 -- Mesothelioma.com today announced its dissenting opinion on the recent asbestos bill soon to come before congress. Mesothelioma.com has reviewed the recent asbestos bill proposed by Sen. Arlen Spector and Sen. Patrick Leahy and has come out strongly against the proposed bill. We believe the bill is unworkable, under-funded, and unconstitutional.

While legislation proposed in Washington, D.C., by Pennsylvania Senator, Arlen Specter, on its face seems to allay many issues regarding litigation over asbestos-related disease, the Asbestos Bill actually raises impossible hurdles for victims and bails out politically well-connected corporations.

Senator Specter acknowledges that he can’t pass a ‘perfect’ bill, but offers little solace to the mesothelioma victims who’ll die before they see any help from the fundamentally flawed asbestos bailout bill approved by the Judiciary Committee.

Every major asbestos victims’ organization opposes this bill, while being supported by the corporate defendants who knowingly poisoned their workers and the public with asbestos and would receive billions of dollars in liability relief.

A few of the fundamental problems with the fund include:

• The fund is under-funded by at least $16 billion (according to the CBO) and possibly as much as $49 billion (analysis by asbestos claims expert Mark Peterson) or even $100 billion (Environmental Working Group). Bankruptcy of the fund and taxpayer bailout is likely.

• Every single similar government trust fund has failed.

• In its current form the fund will immediately be mired in litigation from existing asbestos trusts, insurance companies, small businesses, and the thousands of victims unfairly excluded from the fund.

• By moving all pending claims into the fund, the fund is guaranteed to have a huge backlog at startup.

• Victims with community exposure and 9/11 victims – even firefighters, police, and emergency workers – are barred from receiving any compensation. The disparity between their treatment and the treatment of similar victims in Libby, Montana is likely unconstitutional.

• There is no real sunset process for victims to return to the courts when the fund becomes bankrupt.

• While treating unfairly or shutting out those poisoned by asbestos, the companies that poisoned them are rewarded with a multi-billion dollar bailout.

Mesothelioma.com plans to inform its readers on the progress of the bill in the senate and the house, throughout the month of January. More information about the bill can be found at http://www.mesothelioma.com. Call your local Senator or Congressman and let them know you oppose bill S.852.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:35 AM | Comments (0)

November 17, 2005

Doe Run Peru Reduces Employee Blood Lead Levels by More than 30 Percent

Company credits employee education, hygiene programs and facility improvements.

St. Louis, MO (PRWEB via PR Web Direct) November 15, 2005 -- The Doe Run Company today announced that its subsidiary, Doe Run Peru, has reported significant improvements in the blood lead levels of its employees at the La Oroya Metallurgical Complex. Doe Run Peru has reduced blood lead levels in exposed workers to 33.59 micrograms per 100 milliliters of blood (ug/100ml), down more than 30 percent from measurements taken when the company arrived in 1997, then at 51.1 ug/100ml. The Doe Run Company marked its eight-year anniversary of purchasing the complex on Oct. 23.

“We’ve come a long way in nine years,” said Bruce Neil, president of Doe Run Peru. “To be successful, it was essential that we engage every employee in the new programs we implemented to reduce their blood lead levels. We applaud them for their commitment to incorporating these healthy practices into their daily lives, and are proud that together, we’ve been able to improve the health of our employees and their families.”

Doe Run Peru credits the significant downturn in blood lead levels to various education and hygiene programs and policies it has implemented at the La Oroya Complex, along with providing workers with new respirator equipment and a change house where work clothes are washed daily, as well as completing several environmental projects pursuant to its environmental operating agreement (PAMA).

“This dramatic improvement is a testament to Doe Run Peru’s commitment to producing products that we need for our daily lives in an environmentally responsible manner,” added Neil. “We are already using some of the best practices that we’ve learned in our facility to improve the health of our neighbors and protect the health of future employees, and we look forward to continued success.”

The Doe Run Company, along with its subsidiaries, is a privately held natural resource company focused on environmentally sound mineral production, recycling and metals fabrication. Based in St. Louis, the company and its subsidiaries serve as North America’s largest integrated lead producer and third-largest total lead producer worldwide, employing more than 4,000 people. The company and its employees are committed to practicing environmental stewardship while producing essential raw materials – lead, zinc, copper, gold and silver – that are needed for everyday life. Doe Run and its subsidiaries have U.S. operations in Missouri, Washington and Arizona, and South American operations in Peru. For more information about Doe Run, visit http://www.doerun.com.

Contact:
Christi Dixon
(314) 469-3500
http://www.doerun.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 01:27 AM | Comments (0)

November 16, 2005

Upholstery to Airlines: Unstable Oil Prices Affecting Many Industries

Many industries, such as upholstery, rely on petrochemicals as raw input materials. Fluctuating oil prices are a reality these days.

Houston, TX (PRWEB) November 14, 2005 --

Airlines sure. But upholstery? Oil prices can affect a larger part of the economy than is usually thought of. The reality is that a large part of manufacturing (such as plastics) rely on petrochemicals to actually make their products. Upholstery is one of these industries. “Many furniture manufacturers are seeing across the board increases in foam costs which are a primary raw material needed in the manufacturing of upholstery fabrics,” said David Nelson of Theupholsteryguide.com.

To some people, it sounds like a repeat of the 1970s. The stock market fluctuations, the lines for gasoline (which, thankfully have abated for now), and the slow influx of alternative energy solutions make it seem like we are in a time warp. However, a lot of industries can’t switch from petrochemicals even if the alternatives’ technology was far more advanced.

Industries that are staples of the economy, such as injection molding, use oil based raw materials as inputs to make common industrial items that are needed around the economy. You can’t make a solar panel into a box of garbage bags.

With oil prices now down from their close to $70 mark, a lot people are wondering in which direction oil prices could go in the near future. Airlines need expensive fuel to run their aircraft, but a lot of people don’t realize that petrochemicals play a huge part in manufacturing too. And these companies need oil to make their products: no matter what the cost.

About The Upholstery Guide
TheUpholsteryGuide.com was launched in November 2005 to provide information to consumers and business people about upholstery. Theupholsteryguide.com features articles, news, and resources about upholstery and it’s use in modern industry. David Nelson indicated that TheUpholsteryGuide.com plans on adding several new articles and tutorials about upholstery in the upcoming weeks.

Contact:
David Nelson
713-850-7525
http://www.theupholsteryguide.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 01:27 AM | Comments (0)

How a Paint Manufacturer Significantly Reduced Their Product Loss -- a Real World Documented Case Study

Latex paints and stain manufacturer -- PPG Architectural Finishes of Louisville, Kentucky -- knew its filling operation was overly complicated, noisy, and required far too much operator attention. More importantly, PPG experienced an unacceptable percentage of product loss in the filtering process. PPG replaced their vibrating screen, accumulating vessel, and diaphragm pump with a Ronningen-Petter DCF-800 self-cleaning filter, greatly reducing product waste, operator involvement, and line noise levels.

(PRWEB) November 16, 2005 -- Latex paints and stain manufacturer - PPG Architectural Finishes of Louisville, Kentucky - knew its filling operation was overly complicated, noisy, and required far too much operator attention. More importantly, PPG experienced an unacceptable percentage of product loss in the filtering process. PPG replaced their vibrating screen, accumulating vessel, and diaphragm pump with a Ronningen-Petter DCF-800 self-cleaning filter, greatly reducing product waste, operator involvement, and line noise levels.

Situation

An air-operated diaphragm pump at the base of a blend tank pumped product onto a large vibrating screen, which was open to the atmosphere.

Product exiting the vibrating screen was fed into an accumulating vessel, where another pump would transfer the product through a polishing filter and into a rotary drum filling machine.

With the two pumps, vibrating screen and open-air vessel, this system was complex, noisy, and wasteful.

Mr. Doug Story, plant engineer at the Louisville plant, had some simple objectives for improving the company’s filling operation — produce as much finished product as possible, by using the most environmentally friendly and least wasteful methods available.

Solution

RPA Process Technologies showed Mr. Story how he could greatly simplify the process by installing a Ronningen-Petter DCF filter in place of the vibrating screen.

Removing the vibrating screen would also eliminate the need for the accumulating vessel and its associated piping and controls, as well as the second diaphragm pump and its compressed air components and controls.

Mr. Story said, “The simplicity of the new filling process gained instant approval from both our operators and maintenance personnel.” The old equipment was removed and a DCF-800 self-cleaning filter was installed.

With the DCF filter, paint enters the top inlet of the filter housing and passes through the screen. The screen holds undispersed pigments, paint skins, and debris, while the cleaned paint exits the bottom outlet of the filter.

A cleaning disc moves up and down the filter screen, removing debris. With the aid of the downward fluid flow and the disc movement, the debris is deposited into a holding chamber at the bottom of the filter housing.

The debris is periodically purged from the housing via a valve at the bottom of the chamber.

Results

The Ronningen-Petter DCF filter has virtually eliminated operator involvement in the operation.

Removing the vibrating screen and second diaphragm pump has dramatically reduced noise levels.

Mr. Story reports significant reductions in product waste because of the DCF filter’s top-to-bottom flow design and debris purging technology.

The DCF filter purges residual paint and debris into the plant recycling system, where the solids are separated and the paint is reused. This purge system allows filtration and cleaning to occur simultaneously.

After a year in operation, Mr. Story said:

“Post installation costs for the first year were under $10 (USD). Payback was achieved in four months, and this analysis does not include the savings generated in utilities costs for the vibrating screen, its maintenance, or additional operator time.

The DCF filter has contributed to our paint and stain production efficiency, exceeding the objectives set at the beginning of the project. We are also providing our workers with a quieter, more environmentally friendly workplace.”

--by Ask Filter Man

For questions about industrial filtration, please visit the Ask Filter Man forum at http://www.rpaprocess.com/Ask-Filter-Man-Blog.asp.

If you would like to discuss this filtration solution with one of our highly trained Applications Specialists, please visit http://www.rpaprocess.com/ContactUs/Contact-Us.asp.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 01:26 AM | Comments (0)

November 15, 2005

Can Pest Control Stop the Pests From Making Your Home Into a Winter Resort

Winter is Coming. So are pests. Don't let them make your house into their new resort. Learn how to protect your residence from outside intruders.

Houston, TX (PRWEB) November 15, 2005 --
Brrrrrrrrrrrr! It’s cold out. We are on the verge of another winter coming on strong. Unfortunately, you aren’t the only one who knows that winter is coming. Mice, bugs, snakes, and other pests are looking at your house like a giant ski lodge in a blizzard. They know it’s warm in there. Pest control is the answer. “People need to know that pest control is needed during the winter time to keep your new rodent roommates from moving in to stay. Natural pest control is an option, but so is basic common sense.” said Jason Mattson of HowtoControlPests.com.

The winter can be a very harsh time. Northern areas of the US and Canada can see the temperature drop significantly for months at a time. With subzero temperatures, pests of all sorts will seek refuge in your home if they can.

In fact, even the Michigan Department of Agriculture’s website lists several steps that you should take to make sure that your home is protected from all sort of different creatures moving in for the winter. This is clearly an issue that they have dealt with before.

However, pest control doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to call the exterminator. The three best home pest control measures to take before winter are:

1)Make sure outside vents have screens on them.
2)Seal up cracks and holes on the outside of your house
3)Dispose of your garbage regularly and seal it up. This is a big one. Make sure it’s done.

Natural pest control There are all sorts of pest control products available to people who need to make their homes their own. And only their own.

About HowToControlPests.com:
HowToControlPests.com was built to show the public how to control their pests in their home and what their options are for pest control. Jason Mattson said that he intends to add more content in the following weeks in order to show the readers exactly how to eliminate pests from their homes in the easiest way possible.

For more information,
visit: http://www.howtocontrolpests.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:34 AM | Comments (0)

November 14, 2005

Free RFP Web Tool, WhyAbe.com Adds Location Filtering and Video Help for Suppliers

WhyAbe.com’s location filtering feature gives buyers the ability to search for pre-registered WhyAbe suppliers after entering a radius and any U.S. zip code. Video help enables suppliers to quickly become proficient in submitting quotes on WhyAbe.

WILLOW GROVE, Pennsylvania (PRWEB) November 14, 2005 -- WhyAbe.com, the free RFP tool, today announced the rollout of a location filtering feature that provides users of the site the ability to search for suppliers, or buyer listings based on a radius search of a zip code. When using the Find feature, buyers and researchers have the ability to type in a keyword for the product or service they are sourcing and can filter results based on distance from the entered zip code. Additionally, when creating an RFP listing, the automated supplier matching tool will give buyers the option to only invite suppliers located near their zip code. Suppliers are able to use the advanced search feature to find out if any buyers have listed public RFPs within their territories.

The video help button on the quoting page launches a flash presentation that walks suppliers through the quoting process of WhyAbe. Additional video help buttons included throughout the site provide in depth tutorials to assist users with the powerful functions of WhyAbe.

WhyAbe.com is an automated collaborative marketplace. WhyAbe allows buyers to post their specifications in a RFP / RFQ format and invite suppliers to provide quotes. The ability to communicate with multiple suppliers at a single time and view all responses in the WhyAbe dashboard is unprecedented. Likewise, suppliers can make their goods and services available to a broader range of potential buyers and receive free trade leads. Registering and using the site is free. Professional sourcing services can be obtained from partner companies to WhyAbe.com.

WhyAbe creates a marketplace that is Buyer centric. Utilizing a revolutionary keyword engine that matches suppliers to buyer’s requirements, WhyAbe makes it easy for buyers to find suppliers and obtain quotes quickly. Buyers can invite their own suppliers by simply typing in the supplier’s email address. WhyAbe also has a versatile listing tool that seamlessly handles everything from RFI’s and RFP’s to Specifications, Drawings, and Pictures with intuitive ease. Free reverse auctions will be available in the near future. Buyers can use WhyAbe.com for all of their strategic sourcing needs.

Most e-sourcing platforms require a large ramp-up period and/or a large deployment budget. With these platforms, the cost of rollout can often mitigate any cost savings opportunities. WhyAbe is specifically designed to allow buyers (corporate and retail) to do more in less time, than conventional e-sourcing platforms. Buyers can easily monitor all of their activity through WhyAbe’s Dashboard feature which provides history of all activity for all projects. This is especially important for companies that are trying to comply with Sarbanes Oxley.

Obtaining value from WhyAbe is instant. There is no software to install or PC’s to configure. A computer equipped with the latest version of Internet Explorer or Mozilla provides immediate access, to the comprehensive and user friendly tool. WhyAbe allows users to control costs, manage performance, ensure compliance and quickly deliver value. You can start using WhyAbe now and begin getting the benefits right away.

WhyAbe is the available immediately for free on the web @ www.WhyAbe.com.

For additional information, contact:
Steven Belli
WhyAbe.com
724 Fitzwatertown Road
Willow Grove, PA 19090
Phone: 267-913-6278

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 12:36 AM | Comments (0)

RAS (Remote Astronomical Society) Observatory Announces Second Free Web-based Seminar on Asteroid Hunting -- General Public Invited

Following closely on the heels of a very successful first event, the RAS Observatory has the distinct honor of presenting noted Canadian geophysicist, Andrew Lowe, on the subject of using the internet to discover asteroids. Lowe, currently is pending confirmation of his 100th asteroid discovery since January, will detail his scintillating encounters with space rocks. Further, Mr. Lowe goes into minute details of his unique strategies that have allowed him to achieve this remarkable performance.

Fountain Valley, CA (PRWEB) November 14, 2005 -- The RAS (Remote Astronomical Society) Observatory, in conjunction with Ivocalize.com, (www.ivocalize.com) a web conference hosting service, announced the second web-based seminar that will be available to the world-wide general public. The seminar titled, “Using the Internet to discover Asteroids”, is presented by Andrew Lowe (http://members.shaw.ca/andrewlowe/) and is being offered as a public service of the RAS Observatory. There is no charge for access to this seminar.

Here are the main points:
• Who: Presented by Andrew Lowe, (http://members.shaw.ca/andrewlowe/inthenews.htm)
• What: Web-based seminar on Asteroid Discovery Using the Internet
• Where: On your most convenient web connected computer via the internet
• When: Saturday, November 19, 2005 12:00 PM MST (19:00 UTC). Approximately 1 hour
• What: Here is an example of what can be accomplished using the internet as a resource

Those wishing to participate are required to join a Yahoo group specifically setup for this meeting. The link to that group may be found at http://www.ras-observatory.org/ras/Web_Seminars/web_seminars.html

All further information will be distributed only to those that sign up for this group. Questions should be directed to the email link provided.

The sponsors indicate that hundreds of attendees can be simultaneously accommodated to participate in this seminar. However, space is limited so interested parties are urged to sign-up immediately to guarantee a seat.

Martin Nicholson, director of the RAS (Remote Astronomical Society) Observatory, also commented, “Along with this series of seminars, the RAS Observatory is also offering additional programs to provide amateur astronomers with similar remote observing facilities currently only enjoyed by professional astronomers.”

An added attraction to the 5 sophisticated Takahashi telescope systems mounted on Paramount robotic mounts is their access to the pristine dark skies of New Mexico, USA.

In a technical vein some of the instruments are equipped with special filters and sensitive detectors that are typically beyond the financial means of many amateurs. By joining the RAS Observatory members can engage in some very specific types of research.”

RAS Observatory listed some of the additional benefits available to members:

• A support system for amateur astronomers to participate in scientific research
• Educational resources
• Assistance in developing meaningful projects
• Assistance in presenting findings and document research results
• Submission of papers
• Coordination of research projects
• Subsidizing special research rates for amateur research projects
• A platform to permit researchers to present work
• Recognition to researchers for achievements
• Coordinate amateur projects with professional projects
• Coordinate collaborative projects
• Completive projects to help develop skills
• Participate in web-based technical seminars

Mr. Nicholson continued, “This seminar is a continuation of our previously announced plans for future activities of the observatory. Now, international amateur researchers will be able to attend global meetings using the RAS Observatory resources from their respective locations through-out the world. This will allow many more individuals to participate, save a tremendous amount of time, reduce travel and accommodation costs and in general speed up the entire process of disseminating new technology and resolving many issues in a much shorter time frame.”

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 12:35 AM | Comments (0)

November 13, 2005

Self-Cleaning Filter is Key Component in Integrated Paint Drum Filling System -- a Real World Documented Case Study

Hallman Paints in Sun Prairie, Wisconsin installed a new filling system to eliminate extensive set-up times. The new system required the teamwork of RPA Process Technologies and Hallman’s filling machine vendor. Careful consultation and a quality Ronningen-Petter filtering system helped Hallman Paints bring the pieces together for a truly integrated fill line.

(PRWEB) November 13, 2005 -- With the use of their new self-cleaning filtration system, Hallman Paints were able to eliminate:

• Bottlenecks in set-up during the integration of the filtering and filling systems

• Commitment of time and space to get ready for the filling process

• Clean-up time because the new DCF filter is designed so that every part is accessible, therefore there are no hidden surfaces where paint can be trapped.

SITUATION

Hallman Paints manufactures architectural finishes, including some textured finishes, for the professional paint market. The company offers a broad range of paint colors, which must be filtered and packaged into 55-gallon (208 liter) drums.

The old filling line was obsolete and inefficient, with a vibrating gravity sieve that filtered the paint.

The filtered paint flowed out of the sieve and onto a tray, which carried it to the fill tube and into one of the open drums. When a drum was filled, the tube was moved to another drum.

The problem with the old method was the long set-up time.

The Operations Manager explained, "We had to get drums in position for filling, take the rings and heads off, set up the vibrating sieve with the proper screen, and make sure everything was ready, so that when the batch became available, we were all set up to begin filling. If there was a delay in the batch — for an extra adjustment, or quality control — the open drums sat there taking up space on the floor."

SOLUTION

Hallman Paints needed a system that would deliver the strained material directly to the filter.

The Operations Manager said, "We wanted to marry the strainer with an automatic filter as a complete system, but nobody had done that before. So we started by looking at straining methods. Then we looked at automatic filters, and at how compatible the automatic filter and the straining method were for combining into one integrated system."

The search led him to RPA Process Technologies and the Ronningen-Petter DCF mechanically cleaned filter.

The DCF is specifically designed to filter solids from high viscosity fluids, like paints.

The Operations Manager liked the DCF filter and began looking for a way to combine it with Ideal Manufacturing’s combination drum/pail filler.

RESULTS

The new integrated filtering and filling system has eliminated the set-up bottleneck Hallman Paints experienced with the old filling system.

Now, the drums are brought in just when they are needed in the filling process.

Paint is filtered through the Ronningen-Petter DCF filter and sent to the drum/pail filler for automatic filling.

When a drum is full, the next drum is moved into position for filling. "We no longer have to commit time or space getting ready for the filling operation," said the Operations Manager.

The Ronningen-Petter DCF filter has also made clean-up much more efficient.

The Operations Manager likes the fact that every part on the filter that needs cleaning is accessible when the filter is opened.

There are no hidden surfaces or corners where paint can be trapped. Operators can easily make sure the filter is properly cleaned and ready for the next color batch.

"We are very pleased with the design of this filter and the way it operates in conjunction with the new filling system".

--by Ask Filter Man

For questions about industrial filtration, please visit the Ask Filter Man forum at http://www.rpaprocess.com/Ask-Filter-Man-Blog.asp.

If you would like to discuss this filtration solution with one of our highly trained Applications Specialists, please visit http://www.rpaprocess.com/ContactUs/Contact-Us.asp.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 11:41 PM | Comments (0)

November 11, 2005

Generating Less Waste Makes Good Business Sense

In many manufacturing facilities, the filtration unit operations often are an afterthought. Unfortunately, discounting the importance of filtration can lead to major negative impacts on a process's profitability. Of course, waste minimization is a complex undertaking. However, when it is approached with the focus on eliminating waste at the source, the benefits can be seen throughout the process.

(PRWEB) November 11, 2005 -- In recent years, the focus of waste minimization has shifted from end-of-pipe pollution controls to minimizing waste at the source. In fact, the US Environmental Protection Agency’s Priority Hierarchy of Waste Management lists source reduction as the most desirable technique – and disposal as the least desirable.

By minimizing waste at the source rather than trying to address it at the end, you provide a cleaner, safer environment. You save money--sometimes millions of dollars--while reducing the long-term risk and liability. Here is how to get started...

Switch from disposable media filters (bags and cartridges) to self-cleaning filters. This can not only create an effective filtration solution, but it can also garner an immediate and significant return on investment.

You may ask where the additional cost savings are from. Cleanable media saves you money when all system costs are considered, many times referred to the hidden costs such as the cost of waste disposal, the purchase of purchasing replacement media, and the labor costs of bag changeout. Not to mention the added risk of employee exposure if the waste is a hazardous material.

The added benefit is the contribution to a cleaner, healthier, and safer environment. This will be felt for years to come.

--by Ask Filter Man

Do you have a liquid filtration question? Ask Filter Man!
http://www.rpaprocess.com/Ask-Filter-Man-Blog.asp.

To discuss this with one of Ronningen-Petters Applications Specialist, please click on the following link: http://www.rpaprocess.com/ContactUs/Contact-Us.asp.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 12:38 AM | Comments (0)

November 10, 2005

Abhisam Software Releases Free White Paper on "Hazardous Area Installations -- How to Make 92% of Hazardous Areas Safer Without Increasing Costs"

Abhisam Software is pleased to announce a Free White Paper on "Hazardous Area Installations--How to make 92% of hazardous areas safer without increasing costs". This White Paper will be extremely useful to people working in chemical plants, oil and gas installations, petrochemical and fertlizer plants, shipping terminals, as well as tank farms, grain silos and warehouses where hazardous areas exist.

(PRWEB) November 10, 2005 -- Abhisam Software is pleased to announce a Free White Paper on "Hazardous Area Installations--How to make 92% of hazardous areas safer without increasing costs". This White Paper will be extremely useful to people working in chemical plants, oil and gas installations, petrochemical and fertlizer plants, shipping terminals, as well as tank farms, grain silos and warehouses, where hazardous areas exist. In these areas, the equipment is specially designed so that its usage does not increase the risk of fire or explosion in these areas.

However, a recent study has concluded, that a large number (as many as 92%) of the hazardous areas that were surveyed, were not up to the mark and were souces of potentially unsafe occurences/incidents.
This White Paper attempts to guide design, operations and maintenance personnel who work in similar hazardous areas to make the hazardous installations safer, without increasing the costs of compliance.
This White Paper can be downloaded freely from http://www.abhisam.com/WP.html

About Abhisam Software
Abhisam Software is a young knowldege based startup, engaged in providing e-learning solutions to people working in various industries. Abhisam Software is the producer of the industry acclaimed e-learning course on "Hazardous Area Instrumentation." For enquiries please visit http://www.abhisam.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 01:10 AM | Comments (0)

November 09, 2005

QuantumSphere to Fundamentally Alter Battery, Fuel Cell Markets

QuantumSphere, Inc. to fundamentally alter battery and fuel cell markets-- files two patents-- development enables increased power and efficiency at lower production costs.

SANTA ANA, CA, U.S.A. (PRWEB) November 9, 2005 -- QuantumSphere, Inc., the leading manufacturer of metallic nanopowders for applications in aerospace, defense, energy, electronics and other markets demanding advanced material applications, announced it filed two patents related to the fuel cell and battery industry allowing for customization of nanometallic-additives for increased power and efficiency. The first patent supports the company’s existing technology framework that will enable battery and fuel cell manufacturers to address novel methods to produce uniform air cathodes. Unique, proprietary features in nanopowder handling enables the production of air cathodes in small test sample sizes up to continuous production capability using the same apparatus, thereby enabling battery manufacturer’s R&D facilities to accomplish complex experimental designs related to gas electrode development while enhancing scale-up capability of resulting designs.

The second patent addresses gas diffusion electrodes for the fuel cell and metal air battery industry using nano-sized transition metal catalysts and alloys. These nanometal-containing cathodes can be used in conjunction with a variety of types of battery and fuel cells, including Zn/air, Li/air, hydrogen and direct methanol fuel cells. In addition, they are flexible and may conform to a variety of surface contours, allowing for more freedom in cell design to power a wider variety of devices.

“This technology allows QuantumSphere to provide customers the capability of developing and verifying cathode designs specific for their applications. For example, a methanol fuel cell and a zinc air battery have very different power and voltage requirements,” Robert Dopp, President, DoppStein Enterprises, Inc. “Ratios of QuantumSphere-produced nanocatalysts can be optimized using this technology. The resulting cathodes use catalysts never tested before because the method to make small cathode samples did not exist, but also because, until recently, no one knew how to make the metallic nanopowders uniformly and in quantities large enough to test. QuantumSphere and DoppStein Enterprises, Inc, working in partnership, have resolved both of these issues. These inventions will lead to more efficient and more powerful fuel cells and metal air batteries using QuantumSphere’s nanocatalyst and powder handling process.

“This new cathode making process, coupled with the addition of highly active catalyst is invaluable for the production of high-power density fuel cells and batteries which are streamlined and can be tailored to a wide array of devices-- thereby providing significant performance advantages in the next generation cell phones, cameras, and other portable electronics,” said Dr. Kimberly McGrath, Director of Fuel Cell Research, QuantumSphere, Inc. “QuantumSphere will continue to work with world-class partners, such as DoppStein Enterprises and others, to research, develop, produce and ship alternative catalyst products on a mass scale at a fraction of the cost,” Dr. McGrath added. As Director of Fuel Cell Research, Dr. McGrath also tailors catalysts for various cell types and operating temperature regimes, and designs new fuel cell systems for small, portable applications that will be efficient at room temperature with minimal catalyst loading. For more information on QuantumSphere’s products, visit http://www.qsinano.com/products.html. Sales and technical services personnel can be reached at 714-545-NANO (6266).

About QuantumSphere, Inc.
QuantumSphere is the leading manufacturer of metallic nanopowders for aerospace, defense, energy, electronics, and other markets demanding advanced material applications. QuantumSphere’s exclusive manufacturing process provides consistent and narrow particle size distribution, low levels of agglomeration and impurities, a custom-tailored oxide shell thickness, and the highest purity metallic nanopowders on the market that are easier to transport and handle. The company accomplishes this without compromising its commitment to the environment and the community. No other company offers these performance advantages.

QuantumSphere is the only supplier of the world’s highest quality magnetic, conductive and catalytic metallic nanopowders, including QSI-nano™ nickel, silver, copper, cobalt and other proprietary nanoscale alloys. QSI-nano™ alloys will ultimately replace platinum as the main catalyst in a variety of fuel cells and battery electrodes, providing a renewable source of power to supply the world’s energy needs. The company is leveraging its leading market position in metallic powders to manufacture and ship materials and devices for applications in batteries, fuel cells, conductive inks, magnetic coatings and membrane filtration devices. For more information, visit www.qsinano.com or contact Joe Romano, Partner, HighGround, Inc. at 781-279-1320 x 208.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 12:14 AM | Comments (0)

How to Create a Lean Manufacturing Process with Environmentally Friendly Self-Cleaning Industrial Filters

I am sure you have heard it before, 'Self-cleaning filters not only reduce waste, but also turn it into PROFIT!" It is a well-known fact that by disposing the contaminants--and not the filter--would create a leaner manufacturing process. However, many facilities are apprehensive to take the next step, which is to switch from disposable bags and cartridges to a self-cleaning filtration process.

(PRWEB) November 9, 2005 -- Running the Numbers:

So, how do the numbers wash out? Here is a way to conduct a preliminary feasibility study to begin your return on investment justification. This five-minute analysis could save you millions in cost savings.

Conducting an instant preliminary feasibility study:

Undoubtedly, you have some questions. You are wondering whether self-cleaning filters can help with your waste minimization problems. Or just how much they can reduce your disposal costs. Or improve your return on investment.

Grab a calculator and a pencil. By completing the following self-survey, you can quickly calculate what disposable media filters are costing you in terms of disposal costs alone.

When you finish, you will have taken a major step toward determining whether self-cleaning filters are a viable alternative to the filters you are currently using or considering.

Determining Your Disposal Costs for Disposable Media Filters:

1. For one filter, multiply the number of cartridges or bags it contains by the number of changeouts per year. This will give you the total number of spent media per year. Write your answer below.

Example: A cartridge filter with 36 - 10-inch cartridges is changed every week: 36 cartridges x 52 weeks - 1,872 cartridges per year.

CARTRIDGES PER YEAR: __________

Spent Media per Year:

2. If you are using 10-inch cartridges or bags, divide the total number of spent media per year by 180 (this is how many of these cartridges or bags fit into one 55-gallon drum). If you are using 30-inch cartridges, divide the total number of spent cartridges per year by 60. In each case, the result is the total number of 55-gallon drums that you will fill each year.

Example: 1,872 total spent cartridges divided by 180 = 10.4 barrels per year.

BARRELS PER YEAR: __________

10-inch cartridges or bags:

30-inch cartridges:

3. Multiply the number of barrels per year by the cost per barrel for disposal.

Example: Assuming you pay $500 per barrel for non-hazardous waste (or $1,000 per barrel for hazardous waste), the calculation is 10.4 x $500 = $5,200 (or 10.4 x $1,000 = $10,400).

DISPOSAL COSTS PER FILTER PER YEAR: $__________

Remember – these calculations are based on a single filter, and they account for disposal costs only. Additional costs include the purchase price for disposable cartridges or bags (typically at least $3 apiece) as well as associated costs such as the labor required for media replacement, the increased emissions, and the increased safety risk.

--by Ask Filter Man

For questions about industrial filtration, please visit the Ask Filter Man at http://www.rpaprocess.com/Ask-Filter-Man-Blog.asp

If you would like to discuss this filtration solution with one of RPA Process Technologies highly trained Applications Specialists, please contact us at http://www.rpaprocess.com/ContactUs/Contact-Us.asp

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 12:13 AM | Comments (0)

November 08, 2005

OSHA Withdraws ‘Willful’ Citations Levied Against Waller, Texas Construction Company and Significantly Reduces Fine

OSHA withdraws all 'Willful' citations and significantly reduces the penalties issued to a south Texas construction company. The workplace related fatality at issue in the investigation was determined to be the result of employee misconduct, and not the fault of the employer.

Houston, Texas (PRWEB) November 8, 2005 -- The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has agreed to withdraw all citations classified as ‘Willful’ levied against Cotton Construction Inc., of Waller, Texas, and reclassified them as only ‘Serious’ violations. In addition, the Department reduced the penalty by more than $45,000 after reevaluating the citations issued to the company in an agreement reached on Thursday. OSHA originally cited Cotton Construction, Inc., for three ‘Willful’ citations and levied a fine of $70,800 following the investigation of a workplace fatality last January in Houston.

OSHA began its investigation on January 7, 2005 after it was initially believed a worker fell from the roof of a two story building due to a lack of appropriate fall protection. It was later revealed, however, that the worker had been assigned to work exclusively on the ground, but he apparently disregarded this order by climbing on the roof without being told to do so. Employee misconduct is a defense to OSHA liability in this circumstance. Each of the crew members who were performing the steel erection and roofing operation were, in fact, tied off to a fall protection system.

“The realization that the employer’s actions did not contribute to this man’s death was heavily influential in OSHA's decision to reduce the penalties, and withdraw the ‘Willful’ designation” said Cotton’s attorney Steve Grubbs, a labor and employment law litigation specialist in Houston, Texas. “OSHA knew that the ‘Willful’ classification would never be upheld, so they had no choice but to remove that characterization and reduce the penalties.”

Under the terms of the agreement reached with the Department of Labor, Cotton has agreed to submit to voluntary safety and health inspections for the next two years, and retain the services of a Certified Safety Professional to verify it is in compliance with the Occupational Safety and Health Act. The agreement was filed Thursday in OSHRC Docket No. 05-1153, Secretary of Labor v. Cotton Construction.

For further comment, you may reach Mr. Grubbs in Houston, Texas at 713-951-1014, or visit www.sswpc.com.

Steven O. Grubbs
Board Certified - Labor and Employment Law -
Texas Board of Legal Specialization

www.sswpc.com
www.employmentlawlitigation.com

Sheehy, Serpe & Ware, P.C.
909 Fannin, Suite 2500
Houston, Texas 77010
713-951-1014 (Direct Dial)
713-951-1199 (Facsimile)

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 12:10 AM | Comments (0)

Covalys, Provider of SNAP-tag, and EPFL Announce Agreement on New Protein Tag Technology, ACP-tag™

Covalys Biosciences and the Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) today announced an agreement allowing Covalys to exclusively commercialize the novel ACP-tag technology.

Witterswil, Switzerland (PRWEB via PR Web Direct) November 7, 2005 -- Covalys Biosciences and the Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) today announced an agreement allowing Covalys to exclusively commercialize the novel ACP-tag technology. ACP-tag is particularly suited for experiments with membrane proteins using living cells, and to covalently and specifically modify secreted proteins, such as antibodies. The products based on ACP-tag will complement Covalys’ portfolio of kits based on its successful SNAP-tag™ technology to label and immobilize proteins.

The ACP-tag, developed by Prof. Kai Johnsson of EPFL’s Protein Engineering Laboratory, is based on a new concept: the small polypeptide tag is genetically fused to a protein of interest and upon expression is labeled with small probes using a specific synthase. “The ACP-tag is not a self-labeling protein tag like SNAP-tag, as it requires a synthase” explains Kai Johnsson, who is also the inventor of SNAP-tag and a co-founder and member of the Board of Covalys. “However, for some applications this has been proven to be an advantage, as it allows you to strictly confine labeling to the extracellular part of membrane proteins. Furthermore, ACP-tag is smaller and contains no cysteins, making it ideally suited to tag antibodies and other secreted proteins with disulfide bridges.”

“We are extremely glad to have this exciting new technology in our portfolio” said Christoph Bieri, CEO of Covalys. “Together with SNAP-tag we now can offer scientists an impressive toolset for High-Content-Screening (HCS), functional genomics and proteomics.” The concept had received quite some interest, with several independent publications appearing in top-tier journals. Bieri points out that “Kai Johnsson’s group is clearly leading the field of combining chemistry with biology to create new tools for research.”

Bringing innovative technologies to the market through start-ups like Covalys is a high level priority for EPFL. “Efficient cooperation an technology transfer is really something that makes us very happy; and this is how it is with Covalys!“ said Gabriel Clerc, head of technology transfer at EPFL. “We very much trust in Covalys’ ability to further develop and bring successfully to the market the SNAP – and ACP – tag technologies.”

Covalys said that first materials for test customers will be available later this month. Products for membrane protein labeling are expected to be launched in 2006.

About Covalys Biosciences AG:
Covalys provides products that help researchers in academic institutions and pharmaceutical and biotech companies to improve the efficiency of research into proteins and their function. Its SNAP-tag technology is the first commercially available protein tag which covalently links itself to any chemical probe provided as a substrate. Covalys’ technology is exclusively licensed from the Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL). Founded in June 2002, Covalys has headquarters in Witterswil, Switzerland. For more information, visit Covalys’ website: www.covalys.com

About Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne:
At EPFL more than 200 laboratories are permanently engaged in innovation, discovering original technological methods, processes and devices. Research encourages the creation of new fields which embrace classical subjects, notably the basic sciences, engineering sciences, life sciences and architecture. This commitment draws upon a solid fundamental research capacity. A complete range of services stimulates and facilitates technology transfer, development of partnerships and creation of companies. For more information: www.epfl.ch.

Trademarks:
SNAP-tag and ACP-tag are trademarks of Covalys Biosciences AG

Media Contact:
Tom Gibbs
Covalys Biosciences AG
Phone: +41 61 725 20 50

Media Contact:
Gabriel Clerc
EPFL - Service des Relations Industrielles
Phone: +41 21 693 35 82

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 12:09 AM | Comments (0)

November 07, 2005

RAS (Remote Astronomical Society) Observatory Announces First Web-based Seminar on Astronomy that is Available to the Entire World Population

As a follow-up to the announcement made on October 19, 2005 the RAS Observatory, in conjunction with Ivocalize.com a web conferencing hosting service, is initiating this new exciting program that provides interested participants located anywhere in the world, with appropriate internet access, an opportunity to explore some of the various aspects of amateur astronomy; in this case, Backyard Spectroscopy.

Fountain Valley, CA (PRWEB) November 7, 2005 -- The RAS (Remote Astronomical Society) Observatory, announced, to their knowledge, the first ever web-based seminar that will be available to the world-wide general public.

The seminar on “Backyard Spectroscopy”, presented by Dale Mais, Ph. D. (http://www.mais-ccd-spectroscopy.com/Personal.htm) is being offered as a public service of the RAS Observatory. There is no charge for access to this seminar.

Here are the main points:
• Who: Presented by Dale Mais, Ph.D. of the SAS (Society for Astronomical Science) http://socastrosci.org/
• What: Web-based seminar on backyard spectroscopy for the amateur astronomer
• Where: On your most convenient web connected computer via the internet
• When: Sunday, November 13, 2005 12:00 PM MST. Approximately 1 hour
• What: Here is an example of what can be accomplished in a typical amateur’s backyard environment

Those wishing to participate are required to join a Yahoo group specifically setup for this meeting. The link to that group may be found at http://www.ras-observatory.org/ras/Web_Seminars/web_seminars.html

All further information will be distributed only to those that sign up for this group. Questions should be directed to: e-mail protected from spam bots.

The sponsors indicate that hundreds of attendees can be simultaneously accommodated to participate in this seminar. However, space is limited so interested parties are urged to sign-up immediately to guarantee a seat.

Martin Nicholson, director of the RAS (Remote Astronomical Society) Observatory, also commented, “Along with this series of seminars, the RAS Observatory is also offering additional programs to provide amateur astronomers with similar remote observing facilities currently only enjoyed by professional astronomers.”

An added attraction to the 5 sophisticated Takahashi telescope systems mounted on Paramount robotic mounts is their access to the pristine dark skies of New Mexico, USA.

In a technical vein some of the instruments are equipped with special filters and sensitive detectors that are typically beyond the financial means of many amateurs. By joining the RAS Observatory members can engage in some very specific types of research.”

RAS Observatory listed some of the additional benefits available to members:

• A support system for amateur astronomers to participate in scientific research
• Educational resources
• Assistance in developing meaningful projects
• Assistance in presenting findings and document research results
• Submission of papers
• Coordination of research projects
• Subsidizing research projects
• A platform to permit researchers to present work
• Recognition to researchers for achievements
• Coordinate amateur projects with professional projects
• Coordinate collaborative projects
• Completive projects to help develop skills
• Participate in web-based technical seminars

Mr. Nicholson continued, “This seminar is a continuation of our previously announced plans for future activities of the observatory. Now, international amateur researchers will be able to attend global meetings using the RAS Observatory resources from their respective locations through-out the world. This will allow many more individuals to participate, save a tremendous amount of time, reduce travel and accommodation costs and in general speed up the entire process of disseminating new technology and resolving many issues in a much shorter time frame.”

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 12:33 AM | Comments (0)

Why Spray Nozzle Protection is Important During Your Manufacturing Process

WHAT IS SPRAY NOZZLE PROTECTION? Spray Nozzles are specifically engineered for four critical functions: flow control, cleaning, coverage, and atomizing. It is important to filter solids from water, or any industrial liquid, before they reach your spray nozzles.

(PRWEB) November 6, 2005 -- Unwanted and oversized particles can block the inside of an orifice, which in turn restricts water flow, impairs spray uniformity, and allows debris to pass through which in turn ends up in your process or on your product.

The proper filtration will help keep the nozzle clear of debris enabling them to provide uniform and consistent spray patterns.

For spray nozzle protection, careful media selection is essential. The primary factor to be considered is orifice size and shape of the nozzle opening. Other factors include solids content, type of contaminant, particle size, and shape, amount of contaminant to be removed, liquid temperature, and required flow rates.

For liquids other than water, knowing the liquid's viscosity, corrosiveness, abrasiveness, and adhesive qualities are essential in specifying the nozzle protection filter.

EXAMPLE -- FLUE GAS SCRUBBER SPRAY NOZZLE PROTECTION
To prevent fly ash and sulfur dioxide from venting into the atmosphere, flue gas scrubbers uniformly spray a sorbent into the dirty, hot flue gas. These sorbents, however, often contain oversized particles that can plug spray nozzle orifices. When this happens, the spray becomes uneven, and fly ash and sulfur dioxide can escape from the scrubber.

The key to spray nozzle protection is to filter the liquid before sending it to the spray nozzle. This eliminates the excess and oversize particles, which ultimately plugs the nozzle orifices. Once plugged, the spray becomes uneven, and the output quality becomes compromised. All at an additional and unnecessary expense to the bottom line.

The pro-active approach to this problem is to protect the spray nozzles, which is to filter the solution before it reaches this stage of the process. While there are many different filtration options, the most cost effective is to use self-cleaning filters. This is why incinerator systems manufacturers regularly contact Ronningen-Petter (RPA Process Technologies) to analyze their filtration methods in hopes of protecting their expensive spray nozzles while lowering their process costs.

A SELF-CLEANING SOLUTION
Ronningen-Petter typically determines that the solution to this problem is twofold. To begin, many manufacturing facilities are throwing out more cartridges than necessary with disposable media. That is because disposable media are typically changed on a time cycle (e.g., once a shift, once a day, or once a week), regardless of whether the media needs replacement. To effectively filter when needed -- and not when convenient -- it is important to use automation when at all possible.

With the use of automation, the filters can be cleaned at precisely the right time, rather than when it is convenient. That is because the cleaning is controlled by the pressure differential between inlet and outlet headers as contaminants build up on the filter screen. When the pressure reaches a predetermined level, the screens are cleaned automatically -- only as needed, and when needed.

The second problem was their use of processing liquids (sorbent) with unwanted and prior supposedly 'filtered' particles in it, which resulted in fouling and clogging of the spray nozzles. The consequence of this dynamic was uneven spray and fly ash/sulfur dioxide escaping from the scrubber.

Once identified, the incinerator systems manufacturer eliminated this problem by using Ronningen-Petter (automated) self-cleaning filters. This meant less waste in the process. It also limited the unwanted particles in the process stream, which eliminated the spray nozzle clogging. Therefore, the process line did not have to be stopped to clean the nozzles.

RESULTS
The incinerator systems manufacturers are extremely pleased with the reliable operation of the filters, the elimination of spray nozzle plugging and fouling, as well as the fact that there are no spent cartridges to dispose.

--by Ask Filter Man

For questions about industrial filtration, please visit the Ask Filter Man at http://www.rpaprocess.com/Ask-Filter-Man-Blog.asp

If you would like to discuss this filtration solution with one of RPA Process Technologies highly-trained Applications Specialists, please contact us at http://www.rpaprocess.com/ContactUs/Contact-Us.asp

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 12:33 AM | Comments (0)

Cities Seek More Revenue from Traffic Cameras; Drivers Become Defensive

Cities are finding a quick solution to the need for more revenue – additional red light and speed cameras. Drivers who are concerned about unjust tickets seek methods of self-defense.

(PRWEB) November 6, 2005 -- Reports of cities forced to refund millions because of red light and speed camera errors have not slowed down plans in many cities to increase the number of enforcement cameras.

While cities add more of the cameras in an effort to raise more cash, drivers are finding ways to prevent tickets that are issued in error. Many motorists are using a simple aerosol spray as a defense against the faulty cameras.

Constant reports in the media of tickets issued to innocent drivers, faulty equipment, and the challenges associated with fighting erroneous tickets could be why so many drivers are using PhotoBlocker (tm) spray as self-defense.

Many drivers complain about receiving tickets in error, but the appeal process is so difficult and expensive that most people do not bother to try. Many use PhotoBlocker (tm) spray as an inexpensive way to avoid the next ticket in error.

Vista, Calif. recently decided to add another camera to the four already in the city. The city council is making no secret about the reason for the additional camera – revenue, according to the San Diego Union-Tribune.

Additional cameras have been added recently in Washington, D.C. as well, but a recent Washington Post story revealed that accidents there have dramatically increased, debunking the claim by politicians that the cameras were installed to promote safety rather than add revenue.

The city council in Mesa, Ariz. recently voted to increase the number of red light cameras in that city from 13 to 30 and to add 5 speed cameras. The new combination camera issues tickets for red light violations and speeding.

"People have enough challenges in life, and they do not want traffic tickets they do not deserve. This is one of life's challenge that people can prevent. Because of the high cost in time and money to defend themselves, most people prefer to use PhotoBlocker (tm) spray to prevent unjust tickets. We want our roads to be safe, and we do not encourage anyone to break the law. But we know how frustrating it is to get a ticket you do not deserve," explained Joe Scott of PhotoBlocker.com.

Incidents reported in the media increase the demand for cans of PhotoBlocker (tm) spray. The company reports sales of over 350,000 cans protecting over 1.5 million vehicles 23 countries. The product is available from many local distributors, retail outlets, and over the Internet at http://www.PhotoBlocker.com.

"We get calls, e-mails and letters from many professionals who are very happy with the effectiveness of PhotoBlocker spray. Journalists, doctors, lawyers, firefighters, teachers, and judges themselves have resorted to using PhotoBlocker spray to avoid entrapment," said Scott.

Contact:
Joe Scott
703-624-9318

Press release services by http://ThatPRGuy.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 12:32 AM | Comments (0)

Orchid Pharma Raises US $75 million Through Global Depositary Receipts (GDRs) and Foreign Currency Convertible Bonds (FCCBs)

Orchid Chemicals & Pharmaceuticals Limited today announced that it has successfully raised USD 75 million through the issue of 8,650,000 GDRs aggregating US $37.5 million and US $37.5 million through the issue of convertible bonds.

(PRWEB) November 6, 2005 -- Orchid Chemicals & Pharmaceuticals Limited today announced that it has successfully raised USD 75 million through the issue of 8,650,000 GDRs aggregating USD 37.5 million and USD 37.5 million through the issue of convertible bonds. In addition, there is a greenshoe of USD 5 million each on GDRs and convertible bonds. The GDRs (each representing one underlying share) were priced at USD 4.34 each (equivalent to Rs.195 per share). The zero-coupon convertible bonds have a tenor of five years and are convertible into equity shares at a premium of 25%. The GDRs and the convertible bonds will be listed on the Luxembourg Stock Exchange. Citigroup acted as the sole book-runner and lead manager to this transaction.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Raghavendra Rao, Managing Director of Orchid Chemicals & Pharmaceuticals said:

“We are pleased with the successful outcome of our capital raising exercise. These funds will enable us to strengthen our balance sheet and accelerate our efforts to grow our business into regulated markets. The successful launch of Ceftriaxone in the US was our first step, and with these proceeds we expect to continue with our development and filing program in line with our strategic objective to establish the Company as a leading integrated global pharmaceutical company.”

This announcement does not contain or constitute an offer or invitation to purchase or subscribe for any securities of Orchid Chemicals & Pharmaceuticals Limited and should not be relied upon in connection with any decision to purchase or subscribe for any such securities.

The information contained herein is restricted and is not for publication, distribution or release in or into the United States of America, Australia, Canada or Japan. This announcement is not an offer of securities for sale or a solicitation of an offer to purchase securities in the United States or any other jurisdiction. The Bonds and GDRs referred to herein (the “Securities”) have not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), and may not be offered or sold in the United States (as such term is defined in Regulation S under the Securities Act) absent registration under the Securities Act or an applicable exemption from such registration. There will be no public offering of the Securities in the United States.

Safe Harbor

“This media release includes forward looking statements and indications, which are based on current expectations and forecasts about future events. Such statements and indications involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors and may cause actual results to materially differ. Such factors include, but are not limited to, changes in local and global economic conditions, Orchid’s ability to successfully implement strategies, the market acceptance and demand of Orchid’s products and services, Orchid’s growth rates, expansion, technological change and Orchid’s exposure to market risks. By their nature, these statements and indications are only estimates and actual results could differ from these in the future.”

Media Contact
M.Raja – GCI – The PR Division of Grey Worldwide
Ph: 98415 70091

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 12:31 AM | Comments (0)

Chemical Company Reduces Hazardous Waste On Resin Production Line

Learn how a chemical company reduced hazardous waste on their resin production line by using a unique industrial filter.

(PRWEB) October 31, 2005 -- Resin and Polymer manufacturing demands tremendous finished product quality and consistency. Even slight impurities can cause significant problems later in the manufacturing process, not to mention the risks associated with the hazardous waste.

The plant manager at a U.S. chemical company--which produced resins for the construction industry--wanted to make improvements in their resin production line filtering systems to reduce their hazardous waste. Using filtration effectively means a finished product with consistent properties, which is free from contaminants and offers homogenous composition.

Filtration process:
There were three separate filtering applications on the line: pre-pump straining, intermediate filtering, and finished product filtering. And, each filtering system generated a host of housekeeping, waste disposal and productivity issues.

A standard pump strainer installed between a process vessel and pump was being used to screen out large diameter particles before product entered the pump.

Cleaning the strainer was a messy job, and the cleaning process sometimes allowed large particulate to bypass the strainer and cause pump failure.

Further down the line, a cartridge filter screened out small particulate after a process tank discharge pump. Changing the fiber-mesh filter cartridges required halting production, and the used cartridges generated environmental and disposal costs.

Finished product filtering was handled by a dual housing bag filter that used two 300-micron, nylon bags. In addition to the hazardous waste generated when the bag filters were changed, product was being wasted when the product-gorged filter bags were removed.

The plant manager consulted with Ronningen-Petter about upgrading the facilities filtering processes. He was interested in the capability of the company’s DCF Self-Cleaning (Mechanically Cleaned) filter, and was especially attracted by the prospect of eliminating the messy housekeeping and disposal problems that the current pump strainer, cartridge filter, and dual bag filters generated.

Solution:
The standard pump strainer was replaced with a Ronningen-Petter DCF-1600 filter. The cleaning cycle on DCF is automatically initiated when the differential pressure within the system reaches a predetermined point.

Now, with DCF in place, filtering is continuous and the pump is protected from the large particulate that previously threatened pump performance.

To eliminate the hazardous waste problems associated with disposal, the intermediate cartridge filter was replaced with a DCF-1600 equipped with the twin actuator option.

Resins are a unique filtering challenge and the twin actuators were designed for sticky, quick-drying liquids. With its robust dual drive mechanism, DCF with Twin Actuator option performs the difficult resin-filtering task flawlessly.

The standard Ronningen-Petter DCF Mechanically-Cleaned filter performs its self-cleaning action using a single pneumatic actuator to drive a patented cleaning disc up and down the filtering screen, scraping debris from the screen.

Collected debris is then automatically purged from the collection chamber at the bottom of the filter, without halting production.

The Ronningen-Petter DCF with Twin option performs the same function as the standard DCF but uses two actuators in place of one. This enables the unit to filter tough applications like viscous and/or sticky liquids, high shear materials, sugar-based liquids and quick-drying paints.

Resins are no problem for the DCF with Twin Actuator option.

Finished product filtering was also upgraded by installing a Ronningen-Petter
DCF-1600 in place of the bag filters for final cleaning before product is loaded
into tankers for shipment.

Results:
The upgrades made by installing Ronningen-Petter DCF Mechanically-Cleaned filters at pre-pump, intermediate and finished product filtering stages have provided tremendous improvements in overall resin processing productivity,
filtering quality, waste reduction and maintenance.

By automating the pre-pump filter cleaning process, filter screen cleaning is performed on demand, rather than when product flow becomes severely restricted.

In addition, DCF performs its cleaning cycle without halting production or leaving the pump exposed to contaminants. At the resin filtering or intermediate stage, DCF eliminated the hazardous waste challenges and messy filter changes required by cartridge filters.

DCF installed for finished product filtering eliminated many housekeeping issues. Contaminated bag filters are no longer being transported down the loading platform, because the DCF Mechanically-Cleaned filter drains at ground level.

The mess, time and cost of removing, transporting and disposing of the bag filters is gone forever. DCF has also provided the ability to reuse filter purges
in lower grade product, thereby reducing product loss and increasing product output.

Conclusion:
The success of the Ronningen-Petter DCF Mechanically-Cleaned filter with Twin Actuator option in resin filtering has prompted the plant manager to specify the filter for all new filter installations at the plant.

Because of the proven performance of DCF at this site, three other company facilities have installed DCF 1600 filters for finished product filtering.

Application details:
Filter model: Ronningen-Petter DCF-1600 with Twin Actuator Option
Type of liquid: Resins used in the construction industry
Application: Intermediate filtering of resins
Temperature: 100° F (38° C)
Flow Rate: 90 gpm (20.4 m3/h)
Viscosity: 500-3500 cps (500-3500 cPo)
Particle size and Loading: Small particles and light loading.

--by Ask Filter Man

For questions about industrial filtration, please visit the Ask Filter Man at http://www.rpaprocess.com/Ask-Filter-Man-Blog.asp

If you would like to discuss this filtration solution with one of RPA Process Technologies highly trained Applications Specialists, please contact us at http://www.rpaprocess.com/ContactUs/Contact-Us.asp

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 12:30 AM | Comments (0)

Spectral Analysis Software ToolKit Released

Transform/NET Spectral Analysis software gives developers an edge in advanced numerical applications.

BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA (PRWEB) November 5, 2005 -- Windale Technologies has announced the release of Transform/NET 4.0, a mathematical software component for the .NET Framework, which will enable the rapid development of Windows or ASP.NET Web Spectral Analysis applications. The Transform/NET software suite encapsulates sophisticated algorithms in an easy to use software package which includes extensive sample applications with full source code in Visual Basic .NET, Visual C# and VC++ .NET.

Transform/NET is designed specifically to be extremely fast and efficient: the algorithms used in the component have been extensively benchmarked and chosen to ensure the highest speed and reliability.

The component includes Fast Fourier Transforms (Real and Complex, Forward and Inverse), Window functions: Kaiser, Blackman, Hamming, Hanning, Bartlett, Welch, Parzen, Gain, Phase and Magnitude functions to enable fast viewing of FFT outputs.

"In many data intensive applications, there is often a need to obtain the frequency response or spectral characteristics of data. Implementing a Fast Fourier Transform algorithm to give high computational speed can be very difficult and time consuming. Transform/NET solves this problem by packaging all the normally required methods in one easy to use and highly efficient software component" said Dr. Andrew Back, CEO of Windale Technologies. "Transform/NET enables software developers to focus on quickly solving their application maths problems."

By partnering with Windale Technologies, application developers will have a strong competitive advantage in the marketplace. Transform/NET is one of a number of software products on offer from Windale Technologies which provide application developers with the software tools to enable sophisticated mathematical algorithms to be included within almost any Windows application. Transform/NET reduces time-to-market, streamlines costs and increases revenue. Transform/NET is available for immediate purchase online.Transform/NET is priced at $395 per license and $795 for a version with ASP.NET capabilities and a single web server license.

Software Information, ScreenShots and Demos:

http://windale.com/transformnet.php

About Windale Technologies:

Windale Technologies provides math, science and engineering software components for companies developing Windows applications. Windale Technologies’ advanced components enable developers to quickly and efficiently produce applications which perform various types of complex data analysis using sophisticated mathematical algorithms. Recognized by many as providing superior mathematical components, Windale Technologies counts numerous major companies among its many clients. The company is based in Brisbane, Australia. Additional information is available at windale.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 12:30 AM | Comments (0)

Designer Molecules Inc. Announces Launch of Its Web Site

Designer Molecules Inc., a specialty resin manufacturer located in San Diego, CA has updated and re-launched its web site.

(PRWEB) November 5, 2005 -- Designer Molecules Inc., a San Diego-based manufacturer of premium specialty resins and oligomers, announced today the launching of the company’s new website, The website features enhanced features including product descriptions, sample requests, product development requests, and descriptions of DMI’s facilities, personnel, and capabilities. Visitors can reach the new website at:

www.designermoleculesinc.com

Designer Molecules, Inc., (DMI) was founded in 2001 by Dr. Stephen M. Dershem and Mr. Frank D. Husson, Jr. to create, manufacture and market new polymer resin products for specialty applications. The company occupies a 15,000 square foot facility in the Scripps Ranch section of San Diego. The building has explosion-proof laboratories, Class 1000-10,000 clean rooms and extensive production and analytical equipment for volume manufacturing of proprietary polymer resins and radiation-curable oligomers.

At DMI, we possess extensive synthetic and application knowledge of several thermoset chemistries. These include, but are not limited to:

* Maleimides * Itaconates * Maleates
* Fumarates * Styrenics * Vinyl ethers
* Vinyl esters * Epoxies * Cyanate esters
* Benzoxazines * Oxazolines * Propargyl ethers
* Norbornenes * Episulfides * Allyl compounds

We have extensive knowledge in the synthesis of photoreactive compounds for the UV/EB radiation-cured markets, including acrylated or methacrylated functionalaties of the list above, and cationic curing moieties.

At DMI we are constantly investigating new synthetic methodologies for applications in the following markets and technologies:

- Cast molding - Injection molding
- UV/EB Cure - Automotive
- Aerospace - Sports Equipment
- Building Products - Adhesives
- Optical Coatings

For additional information please direct inquiries to e-mail protected from spam bots, or call (858) 536-4778

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 12:29 AM | Comments (0)

On Exhibition: Biocide That Improves Produce Freshness and Shelf Life at PMA Fresh Summit Tradeshow

Selective Micro Technologies to Exhibit Selectrocide™ –- a new generation of Chlorine Dioxide product for the food processing industry – Booths #3764 and #4505.

ATLANTA, GA (PRWEB via PR Web Direct) NOVEMBER 4, 2005 –- Today at the Produce Marketing Association’s Fresh Summit tradeshow, Selective Micro Technologies will showcase the extraordinary effects of the company’s Selectrocide chlorine dioxide biocide on produce. Because of its selectivity as an oxidizer and its efficacy at low concentrations, chlorine dioxide is one of the most effective inhibitors of spoilage microorganisms, yeast and mold, all of which cause fruits and vegetables to decay during shipping, on store shelves and in customer possession. Before the introduction of Selectrocide, 99.99% pure chlorine dioxide has not been available to food growers and processors at the point of use.

Background Information Chlorine Dioxide and Selectrocide:

Chlorine dioxide is effective at low concentrations across a wide range of pH (roughly 4 to 10), and, because it is a gas in its natural state, dissipates upon exposure to sunlight. As a consequence, it is known widely as one of the most effective inhibitors of algae, yeast, mold, and fungi. However, because transporting the gas is generally prohibited in all but frozen forms, pure chlorine dioxide has heretofore been limited to use in large concerns that employ chemical generators, such as pulp mills (controlling slime) and municipal water systems (water purification applications). For antimicrobial applications, pure chlorine dioxide has been unavailable to organizations without chemical generators. With Selectrocide, the advantages of nearly pure chlorine dioxide (which differs markedly from the “stabilized” solutions and acidified sodium chlorite solutions on the market) are available for the first time.

JUST ADD WATER—AND WAIT. Now, Selectrocide™ brings the power of nearly pure (greater than 99%) chlorine dioxide solutions to point-of-use applications. Selectrocide™ produces chlorine dioxide simply by submersing the product in water. The resulting chlorine dioxide solution can be used to inhibit or kill a broad range of microbes, yeasts, molds, fungi and algae using spraying, washing or “dip” cleaning methods. Selectrocide™ makes it possible–for the first time–to generate specific concentrations of chlorine dioxide at the point of use, at neutral pH and with very low residuals, using only tap water.

Summary of Selectrocide™ Benefits for the Produce Industry:

- Extends shelf life and freshness of non-processed fruits and vegetables. Produce stays fresh longer.
- Reduces levels of pathogenic and other microorganisms on hard, non-porous food-contact (and non-food contact) surfaces, enhancing food safety programs throughout post-harvest operations. Pathogens and other organisms cannot build up resistance to Selectrocide™ because it kills harmful organisms by breaking down cell walls.
- Reduces spoilage and pathogenic microorganisms on processed, fresh-cut fruits and vegetables (Selectrocide™ A-10 and A-15 only)
- Easy to use and does not require HAZMAT or complicated equipment
- Can be made on-site in specific quantities and in concentrations desired. Only tap water is required to generate the chlorine dioxide.

About Selective Micro Technologies:

Formed in 1999, Selective Micro Technologies is a private company based in Beverly, Massachusetts. Combining sophisticated science with innovative product design, Selective Micro has invented a proprietary delivery system that controls the rate and efficiency of gas-producing reactions. The competitive advantage of Selective Micro’s products is their ability to generate specific concentrations of greater than 99% pure chlorine dioxide at neutral pH for point-of-use operators, using only tap water, without capital equipment. The Company holds two US patents, and has several other patent applications pending in the US and abroad. Further information is available at www.selectivemicro.com or by calling 978-927-6610 X13.

Selective Micro and logos are registered trademarks of Selective Micro Technologies, LLC. Selectrocide™ is a trademark of Selective Micro Technologies, LLC. © 2005 Selective Micro Technologies. All Rights Reserved.

Media Contact:
John Fitzsimmons
Aspire Communications
781-863-1333

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 12:28 AM | Comments (0)

November 04, 2005

Knowledge Management Solutions, Inc. and the National Technical Information Service Create a Joint Venture to Provide e-Learning Solutions

Knowledge Management Solutions, Inc. (KMSI) has entered into a joint venture with the National Technical Information Service (NTIS) to deliver a wide range of end-to-end e-learning and knowledge management solutions. KMSI serves as a solution provider to create innovative solutions that increase the performance and effectiveness of learning and knowledge management systems for Federal Government Agencies.

(PRWEB) November 4, 2005 -- Knowledge Management Solutions, Inc. (KMSI) has entered into a joint venture with the National Technical Information Service (NTIS) to deliver a wide range of end-to-end e-learning and knowledge management solutions. KMSI serves as a solution provider to create innovative solutions that increase the performance and effectiveness of learning and knowledge management systems for Federal Government Agencies.

“KMSI provides the best learning technology platform on the market today. Our technology leadership, coupled with the experience and resources of NTIS will provide Government Agencies with a best in class solution.” said Jack E. Lee, CEO of Knowledge Management Solutions, Inc.

About Knowledge Management Solutions, Inc.
Knowledge Management Solutions, Inc. is a leading provider of innovative learning and knowledge management solutions for Fortune 2000 companies and Government agencies. For more information, please visit www.kmsi.us

About KMx Enterprise
KMx Enterprise is an Advanced Distributed Learning Platform that provides fully integrated e-learning content development, learning management, performance management, learning content management and virtual classroom technologies in one easy to use solution. KMx enables rapid content creation and delivery by a wide range of content creators including instructional designers and subject matter experts. KMx is accessible using standard desktop applications and browser technologies and supports popular learning, content and document management technologies. KMx is available as both an installed application and as an ASP hosted service

About The National Technical Information Service
The National Technical Information Service (NTIS) (www.ntis.gov) is a bureau within the Department of Commerce that offers a wide range of professional services to Government Agencies. The Agency Consortium for Secure E-Learning (ACSEL) at NTIS works with Government Agencies that require a total solution, providing a higher level of security and certification for their learners. In 2004, NTIS through OPM’s e-Training Initiative supporting the President’s Management Agenda became an approved Service Provider offering e-Learning solutions. In addition, NTIS serves our nation as the largest central resource for Government-funded scientific, technical, engineering, and business related information available today. NTIS is celebrating 60 years of information sharing to agencies, businesses, universities, and the public

Contact Information and Press Inquiries:

Mr. Brett Wilson
Vice President, Operations (KMSI)
(410) 859-0104

Mr. Steve Case
Vice President, Sales (KMSI)
(603) 382-2262

Mr. Ken Echevarria
Joint Venture Advocate
(917) 975-4874

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 01:54 AM | Comments (0)

Trade In Your Old Tungsten Grinder For A New DGP Grinder

Diamond Ground Products, “The Tungsten Electrode Experts” has been the industry leader in tungsten preparation and tungsten electrode grinding since 1990. Now, for a limited time, we will allow you to trade-in your current tungsten grinder from any of our competition toward the purchase of any DGP Model Tungsten grinder.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Newbury Park, CA (PRWEB) November 4, 2005 -- Diamond Ground Products, “The Tungsten Electrode Expe