The Rise of Digital Tools Demands More, Not Less, Sales Engineering Expertise

Despite the proliferation of online search engines and AI-powered tools, the role of the process control sales engineer remains more critical than ever in today's industrial landscape. Far from diminishing their importance, these technological advances have enhanced the sales engineer's ability to deliver comprehensive solutions while highlighting the irreplaceable value of their expertise and consultative approach.

The complexity of modern process control systems demands deep technical knowledge that extends far beyond what Internet searches can provide. Sales engineers combine years of field experience with detailed product knowledge to identify subtle application nuances that automated systems often miss. When specifying control valves, for instance, a sales engineer considers not just the basic process parameters but also understands how factors like installed characteristics, process dynamics, and control objectives interact to affect overall system performance.

The consultative sales engineer is a crucial bridge between the theoretical and practical worlds. While AI can process vast amounts of data and suggest solutions based on algorithms, it cannot replicate the intuitive understanding that comes from years of hands-on experience with similar applications. A seasoned sales engineer immediately recognizes potential pitfalls from seemingly minor details in the process description—insights that emerge from witnessing successes and failures across numerous installations.

Furthermore, sales engineers build relationships that transcend individual transactions. They fundamentally understand their customers' operations and often know the facility's history better than the current plant personnel. This institutional knowledge proves invaluable when troubleshooting problems or planning upgrades. The sales engineer can quickly connect current issues with historical context, leading to faster and more effective solutions.

The rising complexity of modern industrial processes has increased the value of having a knowledgeable sales engineer involved in project specifications. Today's plants integrate multiple control systems, communication protocols, and safety requirements. Sales engineers understand how these elements interact and can anticipate integration challenges that might not be apparent when viewing components in isolation. They also maintain awareness of evolving industry standards and regulations, ensuring that specified solutions meet current and future compliance requirements.

The human element in process control applications cannot be overstated. Sales engineers collaborate with plant personnel to solve problems, understanding the technical requirements, operational constraints, and organizational objectives that shape the final solution. They can adapt their recommendations based on factors like maintenance capabilities, operator experience levels, and plant-specific procedures—considerations that automated systems cannot easily quantify or evaluate.

Most importantly, sales engineers provide accountability and continuity throughout the project lifecycle. Unlike impersonal digital interfaces, they stand behind their recommendations and remain available to support the equipment's implementation and ongoing operation. This long-term commitment builds trust and ensures that customers receive maximum value from their investments in process control technology.

The modern sales engineer leverages digital tools to enhance, rather than replace, their core expertise. They use online resources and AI-powered analytics to gather data more efficiently, validate their recommendations, and explore alternative solutions. However, their actual value lies in their ability to interpret this information within the context of specific applications and customer requirements.

As industrial processes grow more sophisticated and integrated, the need for knowledgeable sales engineers will only increase. Their combination of technical expertise, practical experience, and relationship-based problem-solving provides support that no amount of digital technology can replicate. In an era of increasing automation, the human knowledge of the process control sales engineer remains invaluable in ensuring successful project outcomes.

Mead O'Brien
https://meadobrien.com
(800) 874-9655

Maximizing Efficiency in Oil and Gas with Direct Gas-Powered Scotch Yoke Actuators

Direct gas-powered scotch yoke actuators are critical in automating industrial valves, particularly in environments where high-pressure natural gas or other high-pressure fluids are readily available. These actuators convert the energy from high-pressure gas into mechanical motion, enabling the precise operation of large valves, including ball, plug, and butterfly valves. Their robust design and reliability make them essential in high-stakes applications such as gas transmission and petrochemical processing.

The operation of a direct gas-powered scotch yoke actuator hinges on the scotch yoke mechanism, a well-regarded design for its ability to generate high torque in a compact form. When high-pressure gas enters the actuator's cylinder, it exerts force on a piston. This piston is connected to a sliding yoke attached to a crank arm. As the piston moves under the force of the gas, the yoke slides, causing the crank arm to rotate. This rotational motion is then transferred to the valve stem, causing the valve to open or close depending on the direction of the rotation.

One of the defining characteristics of the scotch yoke mechanism is its ability to produce a high torque output at the beginning and end of the valve stroke. This feature is particularly advantageous in valve automation because it matches the torque profile required by many valves, which often need higher torque to unseat from a closed position and achieve the final seal during closure. In many heavy-duty applications, the scotch yoke actuator's ability to deliver peak torque at these critical moments makes it more efficient and effective than other actuator designs, such as the rack and pinion mechanism.

Direct gas-powered scotch yoke actuators are favored in remote or hazardous locations where electricity is unreliable or unsafe. In natural gas pipelines, for instance, the actuator can utilize the gas being transported through the pipeline as its power source, eliminating the need for an external power supply and reducing the complexity of the installation. This capability not only enhances the reliability of the system but also lowers operational costs.

In the oil and gas industry, direct gas-powered scotch yoke actuators are essential for ensuring safe and reliable valve automation across various operations. They play a critical role in controlling the flow of hydrocarbons within refineries, gas processing plants, and other key facilities where precision and safety are of the utmost importance. Thanks to their high torque output and robust design, these actuators are particularly well-suited for managing the large, high-pressure valves commonly encountered in such environments.

Scotch yoke actuators' ability to convert high-pressure gas into powerful rotational force makes them indispensable in oil and gas settings that demand reliability and efficiency. Their simple yet effective mechanism perfectly aligns with the industry's need for consistent performance in operating large industrial valves. From upstream applications like wellhead control to downstream processes such as refining and distribution, these actuators ensure the safe and efficient management of critical flow processes, contributing to the overall safety and productivity of oil and gas operations.

Mead O'Brien
https://meadobrien.com
(800) 874-9655

Malfunctioning Steam Traps and Their Impact on Energy Costs in Industrial Manufacturing

In industrial manufacturing plants, steam traps are crucial in maintaining efficient energy usage and ensuring smooth operations. These devices discharge condensate and non-condensable gases without releasing steam. However, when steam traps malfunction, they can cause significant increases in energy costs, affecting the overall profitability and sustainability of manufacturing processes.

Malfunctioning steam traps can lead to various problems, with energy wastage being the most significant. When a steam trap fails to open, it continuously releases live steam into the condensate return system or atmosphere. This continuous release of steam results in substantial energy losses because the steam, generally used for heating processes or generating power, is wasted. As a result, the plant consumes more fuel to produce the same amount of steam, leading to higher energy costs. The increased fuel consumption raises operating expenses and contributes to higher carbon emissions, impacting the plant’s environmental footprint.

Conversely, if a steam trap fails to close, it blocks condensate discharge. This can cause water hammer, corrosion, and reduced heat transfer efficiency. The accumulation of condensate in steam systems leads to ineffective heating, requiring more energy to achieve desired temperatures. Consequently, the plant experiences a decline in production efficiency and an increase in energy usage, further driving up costs.

As an industrial plant operator or maintenance personnel, you play a crucial role in ensuring the efficiency and sustainability of your plant. Regular steam audits emerge as a proven solution to mitigate these issues. A steam audit involves a thorough inspection and assessment of the steam system to identify malfunctioning steam traps and other inefficiencies. Conducting regular steam audits enables you to detect and rectify faulty steam traps promptly, preventing prolonged periods of energy wastage.

One compelling argument for regular steam audits is their potential to save money over time. By identifying and fixing malfunctioning steam traps, plants can significantly reduce energy losses. According to industry studies, up to 20% of steam traps in a typical plant may fail annually, leading to energy losses that can amount to thousands of dollars per trap. By addressing these failures through regular audits, plants can recapture lost energy and translate it into substantial cost savings, providing a reassuring return on investment.

Additionally, steam audits enhance the overall reliability and safety of the steam system. Malfunctioning steam traps can cause pressure imbalances, water hammer, and equipment damage, leading to costly repairs and unplanned downtime. Regular audits help prevent these issues, ensuring continuous and efficient operations. This proactive approach to maintenance minimizes the risk of unexpected breakdowns and extends the lifespan of steam system components, providing a sense of security and confidence.

Moreover, regular steam audits support sustainability initiatives by reducing energy consumption and lowering carbon emissions. With increasing regulatory pressures and a growing emphasis on environmental responsibility, manufacturers must adopt energy-efficient practices. By optimizing steam systems through regular audits, plants can demonstrate their commitment to sustainability, enhancing their reputation and potentially qualifying for incentives and certifications that promote green practices.

Malfunctioning steam traps in industrial manufacturing plants can significantly increase energy costs due to wasted steam and reduced heating efficiency. Regular steam audits provide a proactive solution to identify and address these issues, resulting in substantial cost savings, enhanced system reliability, and improved sustainability. Investing in regular steam audits not only ensures efficient energy usage but also supports long-term profitability and environmental responsibility. As the industrial sector prioritizes efficiency and sustainability, maintaining well-functioning steam systems through regular audits becomes increasingly evident.

Mead O'Brien
https://meadobrien.com
(800) 874-9655

Harnessing Nanobubble Technology for Effective Scale Management in Industrial Pipes

A nanobubble generator produces extremely small gas bubbles, usually with a diameter of less than 200 nanometers (a nanometer is one billionth of a meter). These bubbles are so tiny that they exhibit unique physical properties compared to larger bubbles, including a high degree of stability and a large surface area relative to their volume.

How Nanobubble Generators Work

The process typically involves:

1. Dissolution and nucleation: High-pressure forces dissolve gas into a liquid, after which it rapidly depressurizes, leading to the formation of nanobubbles.
2. Agitation: Mechanical agitation or other physical processes help form these tiny bubbles by breaking down larger bubbles or by facilitating the nucleation of gas dissolved in the liquid.

Application for Scale Removal and Inhibition in Pipes

Nanobubbles can be particularly effective in managing scale formation within pipes, a common issue in water treatment, manufacturing, and energy production industries. Scale primarily comprises mineral deposits like calcium carbonate, which can accumulate on pipe walls and equipment, leading to blockages, reduced efficiency, and increased maintenance costs.

Here's how nanobubbles help remove and inhibit scale:

1. Surface Interaction: Nanobubbles can effectively interact with mineral particles in the water due to their tiny size and high stability. This interaction can alter the physical properties of the mineral particles, making them less likely to adhere to surfaces and each other.
2. Increased Solubility: Nanobubbles can increase the solubility of gases in liquids, which can change the chemical composition of the solution. For example, injecting CO2 as nanobubbles can slightly lower water pH, which can help dissolve existing mineral scales and prevent new scales from forming.
3. Physical Cleaning: The high internal pressure and negative charge of nanobubbles can attract them to the positively charged scale deposits, leading to physical disruption of the scale layer and helping break down the scale mechanically.
4. Oxidative Properties: When used in nanobubble form, certain gases like ozone can exhibit strong oxidative properties that can chemically break down organic components of scale or biofilm.

Benefits

• Efficiency: Nanobubbles increase gas transfer efficiency in water, making processes like aeration and chemical reactions more effective.
• Energy Savings: Effective scale prevention and removal can significantly reduce energy consumption by maintaining optimal flow rates and system heat transfer efficiencies.
• Environmental Impact: Nanobubbles can reduce the need for harsh chemicals typically used in descaling processes, making them an environmentally friendly alternative.

Overall, using nanobubble technology in scale prevention and removal offers a promising approach to improving system efficiency and reducing maintenance and operational costs in various industrial applications.

The Armstrong International Nanobubble Generator is a revolutionary technology that is transforming industries with its advanced nanobubble generation capabilities. This cutting-edge device produces ultra-fine bubbles, significantly enhancing water treatment, cleaning processes, and oxygenation in various applications. With unparalleled efficiency and effectiveness, the Armstrong International Nanobubble Generator optimizes performance, reduces costs, and promotes sustainability. 

Mead O'Brien
https://meadobrien.com
(800) 874-9655

Steam Trap Management: The Often Overlooked Component in Pursuing Decarbonization Goals

Decarbonization efforts are becoming increasingly urgent as we approach the midpoint of 2024. Nations and industries are uniting globally to reduce their carbon footprint and combat climate change. Decarbonization involves reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions across sectors like energy production, transportation, and industrial processes. Governments and companies are investing in renewable energy sources, energy efficiency measures, and carbon capture technologies to lessen their reliance on fossil fuels. Many countries have set ambitious net-zero emissions targets. Still, the journey to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement and limit global warming to well below 2 °C above pre-industrial levels is far from over. The transition to a low-carbon economy demands ongoing commitment, innovation, and collaboration from all stakeholders to accelerate the pace of change and mitigate the most severe impacts of climate change.

Developing a tailored roadmap to decarbonization for your specific facilities and industry is not just crucial, but also highly beneficial. Each industry and facility presents unique challenges and opportunities for reducing carbon emissions. A customized roadmap takes into account the specific processes, equipment, and energy requirements of your operations, enabling more targeted and practical solutions. This approach ensures that your investment in emissions reduction is maximized, a particularly important consideration as the transition to a low-carbon economy can be costly. A tailored approach prioritizes the most cost-effective strategies for your facility, providing you with the confidence that you are making the most of your investment. As governments worldwide implement stricter emissions regulations, a tailored decarbonization roadmap helps ensure that your facility remains compliant, avoiding potential fines and reputational damage. But it's not just about meeting regulations; it's about engaging your stakeholders. By demonstrating your commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility, you empower your employees, reassure your investors, and attract environmentally conscious customers, thereby building trust and strengthening your relationships with your stakeholders.

One critical step in developing a decarbonization roadmap is steam trap management. Steam traps play a vital role in maintaining energy efficiency in steam systems. When steam traps malfunction, significant energy losses, increased fuel consumption, and higher carbon emissions can occur. By properly managing and maintaining steam traps, facilities can reduce their energy waste and improve overall system efficiency. This efficient management can lead to substantial cost savings by reducing energy consumption and minimizing the need for costly repairs or replacements of damaged equipment. Steam traps are essential in removing condensate, air, and non-condensable gases from the steam system. Failure to effectively manage steam traps can result in decreased system performance, reduced heat transfer efficiency, and potential damage to equipment. Properly functioning steam traps are crucial for maintaining a safe and reliable steam system, as malfunctioning traps can cause water hammer, leading to equipment damage and potential safety hazards for personnel. By incorporating steam trap management into your decarbonization roadmap, you can identify opportunities for improved energy efficiency, cost savings, and reduced carbon emissions, thereby contributing to a more comprehensive and effective strategy for achieving your facility's sustainability goals.

Mead O'Brien
https://meadobrien.com
(800) 874-9655

Securing Critical Processes: The Importance of Severe Service Valves

Metal-seated, zero-leakage, severe service valves are specialized solutions for various industries most demanding and challenging applications. These valves provide exceptional performance, reliability, and safety in environments where traditional valves may fail to meet stringent requirements. Their unique design and advanced features make them essential components in oil and gas, chemical processing, power generation, and more.

The primary characteristic of metal-seated, zero-leakage, severe service valves is their ability to achieve a perfect seal, even under extreme conditions. Unlike conventional valves that may use soft seats or elastomeric materials, these valves employ superior metal-to-metal seating surfaces. The metal seats are precision-machined and often coated with advanced materials like stellite or tungsten carbide to enhance their durability and resistance to wear corrosion, and erosion. This metal-to-metal seating ensures a tight seal, preventing fluid or gas leakage, even at high temperatures and pressures.

Zero leakage is a critical requirement and a responsibility in many industrial applications, particularly in the oil and gas sector. Leakage of hydrocarbons or other hazardous fluids can lead to severe environmental contamination, safety risks, and significant financial losses. Metal-seated, zero-leakage valves address this issue by providing a reliable and long-lasting solution. They are designed to maintain their sealing integrity even after numerous cycles and in the presence of abrasive or corrosive media. This level of performance is essential in downstream processing, where the slightest leakage can disrupt operations and compromise product quality.

In addition to their zero-leakage capabilities, severe service valves withstand extreme operating conditions. Depending on the specific application requirements, they use high-strength, heat-resistant materials such as stainless steel, nickel alloys, or titanium. These materials enable the valves to handle high temperatures, pressures, and aggressive media without failure or degradation. The robust construction also allows for a longer service life, reducing the need for frequent maintenance and replacements.

Severe service valves find applications in various critical processes across industries such as steam systems, boiler feedwater control, and turbine bypass applications in the power generation sector. The valves' ability to handle high-temperature steam and maintain tight shutoff is crucial for efficient and safe power plant operations. In the chemical processing industry, severe service valves apply in reactor systems, high-pressure fluid handling, and corrosive environments. They ensure process integrity, prevent leakage of toxic chemicals, and contribute to the plant's overall safety.

The oil and gas industry relies heavily on metal-seated, zero-leakage, severe service valves throughout its upstream, midstream, and downstream operations. These valves are vital in ensuring smooth and safe operations, from wellhead control and pipeline isolation to refinery processes and gas processing plants. They handle the extreme pressures, temperatures, and abrasive nature of hydrocarbons, providing reliable flow control and isolation capabilities.

In conclusion, metal-seated, zero-leakage, severe service valves are indispensable components in industries that demand the highest performance, reliability, and safety levels. Their unique design, materials construction, and zero-leakage capabilities make them the preferred choice for handling extreme conditions and critical applications. By investing in these advanced valve solutions, industries can mitigate risks, improve process efficiency, and ensure compliance with stringent environmental and safety regulations.

Mead O'Brien
https://meadobrien.com
(800) 874-9655

The Future of Industrial Valve Automation

Rapid technological innovations will push industrial valve automation to new heights over the next five years. Here are some of the key trends that will drive progress in industrial valve automation and process control:

Increased Integration of IIoT and AI

The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) has enabled wireless networking to connect industrial valves and actuators to centralized control systems. IIoT connectivity will become ubiquitous in the future, allowing industrial facilities to collect vast troves of operational data from automated valves. Facilities can then analyze this data using artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning algorithms to optimize valve performance, predict maintenance needs, and fine-tune process control logic.  

AI integration will lead to self-optimizing and self-healing valve systems that can automatically adjust parameters, detect anomalies, and take corrective actions with minimal human intervention. Smart valve positioners enabled by edge AI computing will make real-time adjustments to ensure precise valve positioning. AI-powered industrial valve automation will enhance process reliability, reduce unplanned downtime, and boost operational efficiency.

Advanced Valve Condition Monitoring  

Many industrial facilities rely on manual inspections and scheduled maintenance to service valves, actuators, and related equipment. However, over the next five years, comprehensive online condition monitoring systems leveraging IIoT connectivity and smart sensors will become the norm. These valve monitoring systems will continuously track performance metrics like valve position, pneumatic pressure, temperatures, vibration signatures, and more.

Sophisticated analytics will allow maintenance teams to accurately predict valve failures based on degrading conditions before they occur. Rather than reacting to unexpected breakdowns, industrial plants will transition to a predictive maintenance model for valve assets. This approach will minimize unplanned shutdowns, reduce maintenance costs through optimized work schedules, and extend the operating life of valve equipment.

Adoption of Wireless Systems

Installing miles of wired communications infrastructure has traditionally been a significant cost and complexity for industrial valve automation projects. In the coming years, reliable and secure wireless technologies like WirelessHART, ISA100, and 5G will see increased adoption for connecting automated valve assemblies to control systems. Wireless valve automation will slash installation costs and enable flexible retrofitting of existing facilities.

Moreover, battery-powered industrial wireless valve controllers could provide autonomous operations without a grid power source in remote locations. For control valve assemblies in hazardous areas, wireless connectivity eliminates safety risks associated with running wired conduits, enhancing worker safety.  

Continued Push Towards All-Electric Actuators

Pneumatic valve actuators powered by compressed air have long been the industry standard. However, their inherent limitations, such as air leaks, freeze-ups, and maintenance requirements, will drive more industrial plants to adopt all-electric actuators over the next five years. Modern electric actuators offer high reliability, precision, efficiency, and easier integration with digital valve controllers.

Conclusion

As industrial valve automation continues its accelerated evolution through emerging technologies, process manufacturing across numerous sectors will benefit from tighter control, improved safety, increased uptime, and optimized efficiency. The coming years will reshape how valve-automated processes get designed, operated, and maintained using the latest digital innovations.

Mead O'Brien
https://meadobrien.com
(800) 874-9655