Switch technology has changed so much in the 80 years since its introduction that many common beliefs about switches are no longer true. Here are 7 of the most widespread – and false – myths surrounding them.
Category: Smart Switches
3 Efficiencies Enabled by Electronic Switches In Pump Applications
Precise pump control, including alarm and emergency shutdown functions, is critical to a plant operating optimally. While mechanical instrumentation (e.g., pressure, temperature switches) has traditionally been deployed on pumping systems, operators are upgrading to more advanced control and automation technologies.
LNG Leak Detection Using an Integrated Temperature Device
In our previous blog post, we looked at some considerations for a systematic instrumentation approach to detect leaks in LNG storage tanks. One such consideration was to deploy appropriate sensors and final elements for the application and the environment, including meeting the defined safety integrity level (SIL) for a given function. In this second part
How LNG Facilities Can Systematically Design Their Instrumentation for Leak Detection
In this two-part blog post, we take a look at how United Electric Controls’ instrumentation technologies can help LNG facilities enhance their leak detection capabilities. In this first part, we review some considerations for a systematic instrumentation approach to detect leaks in LNG storage tanks. Oil and chemical operators have been adopting a systematic approach
Boiler maintenance using electronic switches
Boilers are a critical asset in many commercial and industrial facilities (e.g., factories, refineries, power generation plants) and play a vital role in many industrial and production processes. Unexpected issues arising with boilers can cause significant disruptions to a plant’s operations, leading to unplanned downtime. Facilities who have wisely chosen to implement robust boiler upgrade
Electronic Switches create efficiency opportunities
There is a growing demand for electronic switches in industrial plants. Operations, maintenance and instrumentation personnel are attracted to how electronic switches combine the simplicity and cost-effectiveness of a mechanical switch with the comparative intelligence of a transmitter. There are 3 types of efficiencies that can be realized from this: 1. Cost efficiency Equipment manufacturers
Dual Switch or DPDT Switch? What is the difference?
A Dual Switch has (2) independent micro-switches in one housing. Most commonly, a dual switch contains 2 SPDT (Single Pole, Dual Throw) switches. The key point is that there are two independent set points, each switch with its own mechanical actuator. A Dual switch is chosen if two independent set points are needed, or the user
How to wire a SPDT mechanical switch
Determining the wiring configuration (Normally Open or Normally Close) to a SPDT mechanical switch can seem confusing at times. However, the concept behind it is relatively straightforward. Wiring arrangement depends on 2 things: Whether the application is on the rise (i.e., trip above setpoint) or on the fall (i.e., trip below setpoint) Whether the load
Switch information for instrumentation engineers
The worst nightmare for instrumentation engineers and technicians is a call due to an unexpected shutdown. Many plants are complex systems of highly technical equipment and machinery intertwined to accomplish their production function. Regardless of whichever problem occurs, the goal for the day is to get back to business as soon as possible, which includes
Mechanical Switch vs. Electronic Switch: Savings upgrade
Many times, when specifying replacement switches I&E technicians may feel most comfortable replacing "like-with-like", and stick with a mechanical switch. Users may be acclimated toward electromechanical switch maintenance and may not be fully aware of the hidden maintenance costs vs. those associated with an electronic switch serving the same function. Electromechanical switches are built from
