Industrial Input and Output (I/O) Modules

In industrial applications, input and output (I/O) modules monitor and control both analog and discrete signals.

Analog signals are continuous signals that vary over time, such as temperature, pressure, or voltage, and analog input modules monitor these signals. These modules convert the analog signals into a digital form that the control system can process. A programmable logic controller (PLC) or a distributed control system (DCS) receives the converted signals for monitoring and control purposes.

Discrete signals, on the other hand, have only two states: on/off, open/closed, or high/low. Discrete input modules monitor these signals. These modules detect changes in the state of the discrete signals and communicate this information to the control system.

Analog output modules process analog signals. They receive digital calls from the control system and convert them into analog signals that control analog devices such as actuators or motors.

Discrete output modules control discrete signals. They receive digital calls from the control system to activate or deactivate discrete devices such as relays, solenoids, or valves.

In summary, I/O modules monitor and control analog and discrete signals in industrial applications. They allow for the conversion of signals from the physical world into a form that can be processed by the control system and vice versa, enabling real-time monitoring and control of industrial processes.

Acromag’s I/O and signal conditioning lines feature more than 100 transmitters, isolators, alarms, and computation modules for process control applications. If networked I/O is required, Acromag offers analog and discrete I/O modules for Ethernet, Modbus, and Profibus.

For more information, contact M.S. Jacobs by calling 800-348-0089 or visit https://msjacobs.com.

Globe Control Valves

Globe valves are typically used in process control applications to regulate the flow of steam or other gases. The valve consists of a cylindrical body with a plug or disc inside that can be rotated to control the flow of fluid through the valve. The disc is connected to a stem, which extends out of the top of the valve and is connected to a handwheel or other actuator.

When the handwheel is turned, the stem moves up or down, which in turn moves the disc in the valve body. As the disc moves towards the valve seat, it reduces the size of the opening through which the fluid can flow, which reduces the flow rate. Conversely, as the disc moves away from the valve seat, it increases the size of the opening and the flow rate increases.

The design of the globe valves allows for a large range of flow control and precise control of flow rate. It also has the capability of both modulating and on-off control depending on the requirement of the process. 

There are several types of actuators that can be used to automate globe control valves, including:

• Pneumatic actuators: Pneumatic actuators use compressed air to move the valve stem and adjust the position of the valve disc. They are popular because they are relatively inexpensive, easy to install, and require minimal maintenance.
• Electric actuators: Electric actuators use an electric motor to drive a mechanical linkage that moves the valve stem and adjusts the position of the valve disc. They are typically more precise than pneumatic actuators, and can be controlled by a variety of electronic devices such as process controllers, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and distributed control systems (DCS).
• Hydraulic actuators: Hydraulic actuators use a fluid under pressure to move the valve stem and adjust the position of the valve disc. They are typically used in large valves or high-pressure applications where high force is required.
• Electro-Hydraulic actuators: This type of actuator is a combination of electric and hydraulic actuator. The electric motor operates a pump that generates the hydraulic pressure which is then used to move the valve stem and adjust the position of the valve disc.
• Smart actuators: Some modern actuators have the capability of communicating and self-diagnostics which is important for advanced control systems, These smart actuators are typically interfaced with digital control system which enables to monitor, control, and adjust the performance of the valve.

It's worth to note that choosing the actuator is depends on the requirement of the process, in term of flow rate, the process conditions, cost, and maintenance.

In summary, globe control valves are used to regulate the flow of steam or other gases in process control applications by adjusting the position of the plug or disc inside the valve body, which in turn controls the flow rate of the fluid through the valve.

For more information, contact M.S. Jacobs by calling 800-348-0089 or visit https://msjacobs.com.

Happy Holidays from M.S. Jacobs & Associates

Electric Heat Tracing for Pipes, Tanks, and Vessels

Electric heat tracing is a process used to maintain or raise the temperature of pipes, tanks, and vessels in industrial and commercial facilities. It is often used to prevent the formation of frost or ice, to maintain the temperature of viscous materials, or to keep materials at a certain temperature for processing or storage.

There are several types of electric heat tracing systems, including self-regulating, power limiting, and constant wattage. Self-regulating systems adjust the amount of heat they produce based on the temperature of the pipe or vessel, while power limiting systems have a fixed heat output. Constant wattage systems have a fixed heat output that is not influenced by the temperature of the pipe or vessel.

Heat tracing is necessary in industrial and commercial facilities for a number of reasons. In cold climates, it is used to prevent pipes from freezing, which can lead to costly repairs and downtime. In processing and storage facilities, it is used to maintain the temperature of viscous materials, such as oil, to keep them flowing smoothly. It is also used to keep materials at a certain temperature for processing, such as in the food and pharmaceutical industries.

Heat tracing systems can be designed and installed by specialized contractors and are typically controlled by thermostats and other temperature-sensing devices. They can be powered by electricity, steam, or hot water, and are usually equipped with alarms and other safety features to prevent overheating or other hazards.

M.S. Jacobs
https://msjacobs.com
800-348-0089

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BriskHeat Electric Heater, Control, and Insulation 2022-23 Product Catalog

BriskHeat is in the business of manufacturing heating elements, controllers, and accessories for various applications. They provide heating solutions for applications in many different industries, including the petrochemical industry, the semiconductor industry, the food processing industry, the biotechnology industry, aviation, the steel industry, laboratories, and power generation. Their solutions address a variety of difficulties, including control of viscosity, prevention of condensation, process heating, and protection against freezing. BriskHeat is a leading innovator on a global scale in the fields of heat trace and flexible surface heat applications for pipelines, vessels, pumps, and valves, among other things.

GET THE BRISKHEAT CATALOG HERE

For more information, contact M.S. Jacobs by calling 800-348-0089 or visit https://msjacobs.com.

The Rotork YT-3400 Smart Valve Positioner

Rotork has improved its range of smart positioners to offer enhanced diagnostic and operating abilities, making these positioners an ideal solution for on/off valve applications where detailed diagnostics are required.

The YT-3400 smart valve positioner has undergone extensive hardware and software development. Valve signature, advanced step tests, and Partial Stroke Test (PST) operates from local or remote positions. Local display and push buttons allow fast setting and commissioning operations. The printed circuit board, chip, and electrical components are updated to increase calculation speed, reactiveness, and dynamic performance.

The YT-3400 no longer uses gears, reducing mechanical hysteresis and potential wear, resulting in more precise positioning around the set point.

For more information about Rotork positioners, contact M.S. Jacobs by calling 800-348-0089 or visiting their website at https://msjacobs.com.