Loop controllers refuse to die

1/8 DIN Controller Spells it Out
Model 32H8 1/8 DIN temperature/process controller has a text display, high accuracy input, and five on-board process recipes. The text display reportedly makes it easy to use or configure the controller. When accessing the controller user interface, every parameter is accompanied by a scrolling text message to describe its function. Scrolling alarm and event messages can alert an operator of plant condition changes. Messages can be customized with a PC tool. Eurotherm; 703/669-1330; www.eurotherm.com

Embedded Digital Signal Conditioners
CellMite Model 4326A Intelligent Digital Signal Conditioner uses its digital and analog outputs to tune and control local actuators. It includes signal conditioning, excitation and sense voltages, digitization, and processing power, along with analog and digital serial outputs suitable for direct connection to a PC. A sensor network can be established by bussing together multiple units. Electro Standards Laboratories; 401-943-1164; www.electrostandards.com

Tough Mass Flow Controller
Max-Trak Model 180 industrial mass flow controller for gases is NEMA 6 (IP67) compliant for use in applications needing frequent wash-downs or hose-downs. It has a fully enclosed valve to minimize leak-in paths. The unit measures and controls gas mass flow rates from 0 to 400 slpm in a flow body a little over 5 in. long. Accuracy is 1% FS with repeatability of 0.2% FS. Sierra Instruments; 800/866-0200; www.sierrainstruments.com

Temperature Controllers
Series RMB and RMC mainframe-style, single-zone temperature controllers are suitable for runnerless molding applications. The controls allow operators to adjust the current trip from 1-15 amps. Using Modbus communications, users can set or change all zones from a desktop computer, a handheld device, or any other module in the mainframe. It has an operator keypad, two LED displays, and three indicators for heat-current, alarm and manual mode. Athena Controls: 800/782-6776; www.athenacontrols.com

Multi-loop Controller Software
pCon multiloop controller software provides auto-tuning temperature or process PID control of up to 128 loops for approximately $22 per loop. A free trial version can be downloaded from the company’s web site. It uses Excel files as its database, can be integrated with HMI programs, and can be remotely controlled by a PLC. I/O sensors, outputs, relays and PLCs can be connected locally or remotely using OPC. PC-PID: 717/671-1566; www.pc-pid.com

Controller/Positioner
Type 1067 PID controller/positioner is compatible with virtually any rising-stem or quarter-turn valve/actuator used for process control. The unit consists of two components: the valve stem position pickup and a microprocessor-driven pneumatic controller. The control or position setpoint can be adjusted via the integral display panel, or sent remotely via common current (0–20mA, 4–20mA) or voltage (0–10 VDC) signals. Burkert: 800/949-2091; www.burkert-usa.com

DIN Temperature Controllers
Plus series DIN temperature controllers have plug-in modules for outputs, inputs, alarms and communications, so users only need to keep one type of controller in stock, and adapt it for each application as required. Models include 1/16, 1/8 and 1/4 DIN size units sold under West and Partlow brands. Controllers have dual setpoints that can be selected from a remote location, as well as PID control with pre-tuning and self-tuning. Danaher Industrial Controls; 800/873-8731; www.dancon.com

Flow Computer
MVI56-AFC flow computer for the ControlLogix platform allows integrated process control and flow computer capabilities in a single-slot, in-rack solution. It supports 16-meter runs, and has three built-in Modbus ports, allowing user access to a defined meter data table. One Modbus port can be configured as a Master, providing an interface to gas chromatographs for gas analysis or any other Modbus slave devices. ProSoft Technology; 661/716-5100; www.prosoft-technology.com