Hardide, the provider of unique surface engineering technology, announces that it has been granted a patent for a new tungsten carbide adhesive and protective coating for industrial diamond crystals.

Hardide, the provider of unique surface engineering technology, is pleased to announce that it has been granted the US patent for a new tungsten carbide adhesive and protective coating for industrial diamond crystals. This development opens up a global multi-million dollar market for Hardide in diamond tools for the oil and gas, mining and construction industries. The non-porous Hardide coating offers an unprecedented combination of adhesive and protective properties for diamond crystals which are used in drilling and saw tools in global oil, gas, mining and construction applications.

The new coating enables the retention of diamonds in tool metal for longer; protects the diamonds from aggressive metals used in tool manufacture which compromise their performance, and strengthens diamonds by filling-in defects within the crystals.

By addressing these issues the new Hardide coating will offer significant cost savings to drilling, mining and construction operations where tool durability and performance are important and downtime for tool replacement is expensive.

Jim Murray-Smith, Chief Executive of Hardide, said: 'This notable development is a result of our research and development strategy to ensure we remain at the forefront of the next generation of ultra-high performance coatings.

The global diamond tool market has estimated annual sales of US$5 billion and is based largely in the oil and gas sector where we have a proven track record and fast-growing customer base around the world.

Our plant in Houston, Texas opened on 1 September 2006 and is ideally located to capitalise on the potential of this coating in the US oil and gas market'.

The Company has also been granted patents for the coating in China, Australia and Russia and has patents pending in the EU (Europatent), Canada and Korea.

The new coating has been in development for ten years and has been successfully trialled with a major global energy industry company in the US.

Curvaceous Software announce the award of a Patent for guiding a drilling rig operator in real-time to operate according to the best drilling specifications available, using GPC software.

Curvaceous Software are pleased to announce the award of their fifth Patent for the application of Geometric Process Control (GPC) technology. This Patent is for guiding a drilling rig operator in real-time to drill holes in line with the best drilling specifications available. Drilling today is a highly skilled activity that takes many years to learn.

Hence there can be a big difference in rates of progress and time needed to drill a well depending on the range of skill levels possessed by the operators.

With the operating costs of a drilling rig being upwards of US$250,000 per day, time saved by good drilling practice can represent a substantial benefit.

Curvaceous Software are pursuing this application of their GOPC technology in discussion with potential licencees for this, and also for other applications.

Ideal for short term or routine applications such as industrial shutdowns, the new Draeger X-am 1100 Personal Air Monitor provides up to 120-days gas and vapour detection.

Ideal for short term or routine applications such as industrial shutdowns, the new Draeger X-am 1100 Personal Air Monitor provides up to 120-days detection of explosive gases and vapours, including diesel fumes, as well as oxygen (O2), carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrogen sulphide (H2S). Offering a cost effective, more convenient alternative to a rental device, this lightweight instrument eliminates the problems often associated with damage or loss and can simply be disposed of after use. Completely maintenance-free and no larger than a mobile phone, the pre-calibrated X-am 1100 is easy to use.

Designed for intuitive operation and featuring a practical two-key control panel and straightforward menu guidance system, it also benefits from a large liquid crystal display which provides all readings at a glance.

Incorporating the latest miniaturised XXS generation of powerful electrochemical DraegerSensors, the inclusion of a catalytic Ex sensor, calibrated to methane, also means that it can provide improved safety when facing unknown hazards.

This sensor not only responds quickly to explosive gases but it also offers a high level of sensitivity to combustible organic vapours and, as a result, ensures dependable warnings in the event of explosive hazards.

Fitted with a crocodile clip for secure attachment to clothing, the ergonomic design features gas inlets on both the top and front to ensure that, even if it is accidentally placed in a jacket pocket, it will still provide a reliable warning against gas hazards.

In alarm situations, three different types of warning are issued.

The audible multi-tone alarm is impossible to miss, whilst a visual 180-degree alarm helps to ensure that the warning is not ignored, as does the built-in vibrational alarm.

Dust and water-resistant to IP67, this rugged instrument remains fully functional and ready for use even after being dropped in water.

The integrated rubber protection and shockproof sensors provide additional resistance to impact and vibration and the unit is also able to withstand electromagnetic interference.

The X-am 1100 can be used with either the standard alkaline or optional NINH batteries.

In addition it can be fitted with a T4 battery, which can be recharged in the workshop or in a vehicle, whilst still inside the instrument.

Equipped with a data logger as standard, the unit allows data such as alarms, errors and the results of function tests to be transmitted via infrared interface to a PC.

The data can then be analysed using the DraegerGas Vision software.

A variety of options are also available such as the Draeger E-Cal automatic test and calibration station, the Draeger Bump Test Station and optional user registration via the Draeger CC-Vision software.

In October, the Euro IV standard on exhaust emissions comes into effect: Air1 is ready with a secured AdBlue supply across the whole of Europe for use in the SCR system on heavy-duty Euro IV vehicles.

On October 1, 2006, the Euro IV standard on exhaust emissions comes into effect. AdBlue will be required in the Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system used in some heavy-duty Euro IV vehicles. Air1, the high-quality AdBlue brand commercialised by Yara and Brenntag, is ready with a secured AdBlue supply across the whole of Europe.

AdBlue is a liquid urea solution that is injected into the SCR catalyst on-board trucks meeting the more stringent European Union restrictions on exhaust gas emissions.

These standards are set by the European Union to control emissions of pollutants from heavy-duty vehicles, including Nitrogen Oxide (NOx).

AdBlue is sprayed into the exhaust system, and is subsequently hydrolised before the catalytic converter breaks down the NOx into harmless nitrogen and water.

Yara is the world's largest AdBlue manufacturer, with a particularly pure method of production.

Being a primary source AdBlue supplier, Yara guarantees that Air1 meets the high quality criteria set in the DIN standard 70070.

The urea used for Air1 is extracted directly from the urea production process as a stream of very pure liquid.

It is then transferred directly to dedicated facilities where it is dissolved with high-quality demineralised water to the right concentration.

Each batch of AdBlue is fully analysed before shipment and a quality assured certificate accompanies the product when it is distributed to ensure traceability.

These automated processes avoid impurities which can cause damage to the SCR system.

Yara produces the premium grade urea used for Air1 production at strategically placed plants in Europe - Brunsbuttel in Germany and Sluiskil in The Netherlands.

Sluiskil is the world's largest AdBlue production plant with an annual capacity of 200,000 tonnes.

'With our prime production facilities and partnerships with major oil distributors as well as leading truck manufacturers brands and our unique availability across Europe, the Air1 ambition is to be in the leading market position', says Rolf E Isberg, Air1 Programme Director for Yara.

Air1 provides an unrivalled availability across Europe as it is distributed by Brenntag, Europe's largest distributor of chemical products.

With more than 120 distribution centres, Air1 offers efficient delivery to home depot and retail outlets alike within 2 working days of receiving an order.

There is a wide variety of storage options available from permanent Mini-Bulk units, temporary Intermediate Bulk Containers and easy to handle canisters.

Furthermore, Air1 brings comprehensive services in telemetry, technical support, operational instruction and flexible financial arrangements.

The Air1 stand at the IAA Commercial Vehicles 06 Exhibition, 21-28 September 2006 in Hannover Germany will be in Hall 12, Stand D55.

AdBlue is a registered trademark of the Verband der Automobilindustrie eV (VDA).

Aker Kvaerner has been awarded a contract to supply Petrobras three mudline dual-bore christmas trees designed to 250 metres (820 feet) water depth, with associated tools, in a contract worth USD 12M.

Aker Kvaerner has been awarded a contract to supply Petrobras three mudline dual-bore christmas trees designed to 250 metres (820 feet) water depth, with associated tools, in a contract worth USD 12M. The christmas trees will be deployed in the Peroa phase II field, located in Espirito Santo basin offshore Brazil. The engineering phase of this contract starts immediately in Houston.

Deliveries are to be completed from the Aker Kvaerner facility in Curitiba, Brazil, for delivery in the next 12 months.

'This award sets a new path for close cooperation with Petrobras in the mudline christmas trees segment, enhancing the Aker Kvaerner established position as a strong supplier of christmas trees in Brazil,' says Marcelo Taulois, President Aker Kvaerner Subsea in Brazil.

Aker Kvaerner has extensive experience delivering subsea trees in Brazil, having delivered more than 130 subsea christmas trees to Petrobras since the start of operations in Brazil.

The agreement is signed between Aker Kvaerner Subsea Brazil and Petroleo Brasileiro SA.

The ASTM has approved a new standard test method for measuring total oil and grease (TOG) and total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) concentration levels in water, which uses IR analysers.

The ASTM has approved a new standard test method for measuring total oil and grease (TOG) and total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) concentration levels in water. ASTM Method D 7066 - 04 covers the use of dimer/trimer of chlorotrifluoroethylene (S-316) for analysis of recoverable oil and grease and nonpolar material by an infrared determination. With the publication of this method, the ASTM has officially approved the use of S-316 as a replacement solvent for Freon and infrared analysis for the measurement of total oil and grease and total petroleum hydrocarbons in water.

It is expected that this method will be published as an ASTM reference method in the US EPA Federal Register, part 136.

The extraction procedure detailed in the new ASTM test method is basically the same as outlined in US EPA Methods 413.2 and 418.1, but using S-316 as the extracting solvent instead of Freon.

ASTM Method D 7066 - 04 is ideal for measuring samples having volatile constituents.

The InfraCal 10mm quartz cuvette holder analyser, Model CVH, manufactured by Wilks Enterprise, was one of the infrared instruments used for developing this new ASTM standard test method.

The Model CVH is an easy-to-use portable, fixed filter infrared analyser that quickly determines TOG or TPH levels in water samples in less than 10-15 minutes, including extraction procedure.

Concentration levels as low as 1-2 parts per million (ppm) to well over 5000 ppm can be measured.

Higher concentration levels can be measured by diluting the sample prior to analysis.

The Infracal Model CVH Analyser is rugged, weighs under 5 lbs, and operates from a 12 volt power supply - making it suitable for field or laboratory use.

It is direct reading and microprocessor-controlled with simple pushbutton controls for easy operation.

It requires minimal training or knowledge of infrared analytical techniques.

The analyser is ideal for both on and off shore applications, including wastewater analysis at refineries.

Ideal for short term or routine applications such as industrial shutdowns, the new Draeger X-am 1100 Personal Air Monitor provides up to 120-days gas and vapour detection.

Ideal for short term or routine applications such as industrial shutdowns, the new Draeger X-am 1100 Personal Air Monitor provides up to 120-days detection of explosive gases and vapours, including diesel fumes, as well as oxygen (O2), carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrogen sulphide (H2S). Offering a cost effective, more convenient alternative to a rental device, this lightweight instrument eliminates the problems often associated with damage or loss and can simply be disposed of after use. Completely maintenance-free and no larger than a mobile phone, the pre-calibrated X-am 1100 is easy to use.

Designed for intuitive operation and featuring a practical two-key control panel and straightforward menu guidance system, it also benefits from a large liquid crystal display which provides all readings at a glance.

Incorporating the latest miniaturised XXS generation of powerful electrochemical DraegerSensors, the inclusion of a catalytic Ex sensor, calibrated to methane, also means that it can provide improved safety when facing unknown hazards.

This sensor not only responds quickly to explosive gases but it also offers a high level of sensitivity to combustible organic vapours and, as a result, ensures dependable warnings in the event of explosive hazards.

Fitted with a crocodile clip for secure attachment to clothing, the ergonomic design features gas inlets on both the top and front to ensure that, even if it is accidentally placed in a jacket pocket, it will still provide a reliable warning against gas hazards.

In alarm situations, three different types of warning are issued.

The audible multi-tone alarm is impossible to miss, whilst a visual 180-degree alarm helps to ensure that the warning is not ignored, as does the built-in vibrational alarm.

Dust and water-resistant to IP67, this rugged instrument remains fully functional and ready for use even after being dropped in water.

The integrated rubber protection and shockproof sensors provide additional resistance to impact and vibration and the unit is also able to withstand electromagnetic interference.

The X-am 1100 can be used with either the standard alkaline or optional NINH batteries.

In addition it can be fitted with a T4 battery, which can be recharged in the workshop or in a vehicle, whilst still inside the instrument.

Equipped with a data logger as standard, the unit allows data such as alarms, errors and the results of function tests to be transmitted via infrared interface to a PC.

The data can then be analysed using the DraegerGas Vision software.

A variety of options are also available such as the Draeger E-Cal automatic test and calibration station, the Draeger Bump Test Station and optional user registration via the Draeger CC-Vision software.

Ensuring the reliable detection of combustible gases and vapours, the new Draeger PIR 3000 is a smart, explosion proof, infra-red gas transmitter.

Ensuring the reliable detection of combustible gases and vapours, the new Draeger PIR 3000 is a smart, explosion proof, infra-red gas transmitter. Utilising the latest DraegerSensor IR technology, it offers an excellent price-performance ratio, is immune to poison and provides failsafe operation in any potentially explosive environment. With a long expected lifetime of over 15 years and offering reduced maintenance costs, this flexible transmitter is designed to detect methane, propane and ethylene.

Each of these potential hazards is listed in a single internal gas library and can be changed easily and at any time via a magnetic wand.

Incorporating a universal 4 to 20 mA interface, the PIR 3000 can be connected to any 4 to 20mA control system, such as the Draeger Regard, and features an unmistakable 1mA fault signal.

With a totally flexible mounting operation, the PIR 3000 can also be supplied with either metric M25 or 3/4 inch NPT thread for use with existing junction boxes.

In addition, individual linearisation curves offer temperature compensated readings and the unit is housed within a stainless steel SS 316 enclosure for maximum protection.

The integral splashguard ensures weather protection to IP67 and the unit is also ATEX, UL and CSA approved.

Even the minutest piece of contamination ignored in the manufacture of payloads destined for space can result in eventual degradation of performance or even circuit failures and the loss of a mission.

Even the very minutest piece of contamination ignored during the manufacture of payloads destined for space can result in eventual degradation of performance or even circuit failures and the possible loss of a mission. So EADS Astrium, part of the European Aeronautic Defence and Space Company, chose the accurate monitoring and reporting capabilities of the latest handheld Fluke 983 Particle Counter for use in its revamped cleanroom at Portsmouth, where it designs, manufactures, assembles and tests the essential electronic payloads which make up the heart of satellites and space probes. The Fluke 983 stores up to 5000 sampling results, which can be downloaded later to a PC for analysis and reporting.

Chris Jeffery, Process Control Manager at EADS Astrium, explained, 'The size and portability of the Fluke 983 means we can sample air quality at any location, for example, up high near air conditioning vents to check the filtration of the incoming air, at locations hidden behind equipment and benches, and within laminar flow cabinets.

It is intuitive to use: readings are displayed on the LCD screen.

The software provided enables the data to be downloaded to a PC back in my office, so I can easily import it into a spreadsheet for analysis and regular reporting to meet European Space Agency requirements.

And by storing the information on a database, it is easy to interrogate later for purposes of traceability and statistical process control'.

Jonathan Roe, Manufacturing Engineer at EADS Astrium, explained the decision to purchase Fluke 983 Particle Counters for the cleanrooms on the site.

'Originally we used a single trolley-based particle counting system but it had many drawbacks,' he said: 'Its lack of mobility meant it was difficult to monitor exact locations and its output of data was all in printed form.

We had to read the data, then manually enter it into a PC for reporting purposes.

We realised the new handheld Fluke 983 could be the ideal solution.

In trials it proved just that'.

The Fluke 983 stores sampling results, based on time, a set number of counts, or with a programmable delay.

Each time, it records date, time, counts, relative humidity, temperature, sample volumes, any alarm signals, and a location label.

The measurements are classified in particle size distribution steps between 0.3micron and 10.microns in diameter.

One-day Filter Testing conferences are amongst the most popular events organised by the Filtration Society, and this year the topic is 'ISO test methods', presented by leading European experts.

One-day Filter Testing conferences are amongst the most popular events organised by the Filtration Society. They usually attract in excess of 100 delegates and around 25 exhibitors from all over Europe. This year's event, which will be held on 3 October 2006 at the Coventry Transport museum (UK), may prove to be the most popular ever, as it revolves around ISO test methods.

The conference, organised by Dr Graham Rideal, chairman of the Society and MD of Whitehouse Scientific, will discuss all the major pore size measurement methods for wet and dry filtration.

The sessions will be presented by leading European experts.

As well as the seven principal lectures, a poster session comprising ten short presentations and a comprehensive exhibition will ensure delegates are made fully aware of all the latest filter testing technologies.

As a bonus, delegates will receive free entry to the museum where they can see vehicles ranging from the first cars ever produced to Thrust, a supersonic land speed record holder.

Summerleaze Re-Generation are successfully utilising instrumentation made by Gas Data to continuously monitor the gases produced by the Poplars landfill in Cannock.

Summerleaze Re-Generation, who produce over 40MW of valuable renewable energy from 20 landfill sites, are successfully utilising instrumentation made by Gas Data to continuously monitor gases at the Poplars landfill in Cannock. The monitoring by the powerful Gas Data analysers of parameters such as methane, oxygen, carbon dioxide and potentially engine-damaging hydrogen sulphide, ensure that Summerleaze Re-Generation comply with IPPC (EU Integrated Pollution Prevention and Control) regulations. In addition, the monitoring of gas flow demonstrates to the Environment Agency that crucially, just the right amount of gas is being extracted.

Data can be viewed on site, on the road, at the office, or from anywhere in the world.

Mike Williams, Projects Manager for Summerleaze Re-Generation, commented: 'By using the Gas Data monitoring system, we benefit from optimum planning and control.

We also benefit from the fact that the very time consuming slog of manually gathering and inputting data has been removed'.

Operating to comply with DSEAR (Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres) as well as ATEX requirements, (the directive for Equipment and protective systems intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres) and offering more measuring parameters and more channels than other analysers, Gas Data instrumentation is designed with expansion in mind, enabling companies to prove in the long term that land is safe for future, post-landfill use.

Gow-Mac, a leading manufacturer of high performance analytical instruments, announces that it has completed the sale of the assets of Gow-Mac Instrument Co (Ireland) to a non-disclosed Irish interest.

Gow-Mac Instrument Co, a leading manufacturer of high performance analytical instruments, has announced that it has completed the sale of the assets of Gow-Mac Instrument Co (Ireland) to a non-disclosed Irish interest. The board of directors of each company has approved the transaction. Mr Jeffrey Lawson, President and CEO of Gow-Mac Instrument Co states this change will enable Gow-Mac to fulfill and be more responsive to the rapidly changing analytical technology demands of their customers.

Gow-Mac now becomes a more fully integrated company by conducting all its product development, manufacturing, distribution, and marketing from the corporate headquarters in the USA.

Gow-Mac has expanded its global support in the form of additional sales facilities, most notably the Gow-Mac Instrument Co Taiwan office.

Gow-Mac Instrument Co is a leading manufacturer of gas chromatographs, on-line gas analysers and fully integrated 'Packaged Laboratories' for PAT and process monitoring, research, and trace gas analysis fulfilling the requirements of standard test methodologies - ASTM, GPA etc.