Thermo Fisher Scientific Introduces New iCE 3000 Spectrometers
Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. has released its new Thermo Scientific iCE 3000 Series of Atomic Absorption (AA) spectrometers. Comprising the new iCE 3300, iCE 3400 and iCE 3500, the innovative iCE 3000 series has been designed to facilitate prolonged and trouble-free operation, even with the most difficult samples, and offers functionality. Featuring a small footprint, these new AA spectrometers are the most compact available and have been developed to accommodate both flame and furnace analyses. The new easy-to-use Thermo Scientific AA range of instruments primarily addresses the analytical needs of users working in food safety as well as environmental, clinical, pharmaceutical, metals and materials industries.

The iCE 3000 Series of AA spectrometers operate on the intuitive Thermo Scientific iCE SOLAAR software platform. The wizards of the iCE SOLAAR software guide users quickly and easily through various operational procedures, providing a step-by-step guide to routine activities and demonstrating the correct sequence of operations to achieve a specific objective.

Designed as a dual flame and furnace AA system, with standard or Zeeman furnace option and D2 background correction, the iCE 3500 is ideal for high-throughput environments requiring fast and regular flame and furnace analyses. Changeover from flame to furnace analysis is entirely software-controlled allowing for unattended operation. The iCE 3400, which also features Zeeman and D2 background correction, is a single furnace atomizer AA system designed to achieve outstanding performance even in cases of challenging detection limits. The iCE 3300 is a complete solution for laboratories that primarily perform flame analyses but that also occasionally process furnace samples.

The help text and cookbook provide additional information on the operational conditions for any elemental analysis, while application tips for sample preparation and matrix modifiers are also available in the software to ensure maximum confidence in results. The SOLAAR Security software is able to secure data for compliance purposes or just for good practice. It provides all the tools needed to comply with the FDA 21 CFR part 11 ruling by adding e-signatures, event logs, audit trails and access controls.

Lambda Solutions, Inc. Introduces New MMR Duplex
Micro Raman System is a new unit that features Modular Design with 785 nm/532 nm DM-1 adapters for double λ Micro Raman Analysis.

The MMR Duplex can be used with each Dimension-P2 independently for Micro Raman, or extend the range of applications with Raman Vector Probes and the external sampling module.

The 1.3 mega pixel CMOS Camera is provided for sample Imaging and Capture.
For exact positioning the MMR comes with the LSI-XYZ: Scanning Range is 70 mm by 20 mm; the Z scanning range is 17 mm with 1µ steps. All LSI Micro Raman Adaptors are also compatible with Nikon, Olympus and Zeiss microscope systems.

The MMR Duplex is well suited for materials analysis including polymers, films carbon fibers and single & multi-wall carbon nanotubes.

New Wireless, Waterproof Core Temperature Data Loggers to Read or Record
The new TandD Corporation RTR-61 Wireless/Waterproof Data Logger is designed to read the temperature or record the temperature from a penetration-type sensor.

A single push button data capture logs the time, date, temperature, operator ID and item ID. An LCD display reads the current value while the Logger is capable of storing up to 1,800 readings.

The penetration probes are available either 5 inches or 10 inches long. The probe can be attached directly to the Logger or to a Handle with a 36-inch cable.

The RTR-61 with its penetration probes are ideal for temperature measurement or monitoring of the core temperature of foods, liquids or any material that can be penetrated by the probe. The data logger enables effective HACCP based temperature management for food safety, making it well suited for use in food-processing environments.

Stored data can be downloaded to a PC or through a LAN using an optional communications set. Data can also be monitored and downloaded over the internet.

Brooks Instrument Releases Enhancements on its 4800 Series Mass Flow Meters/Controllers
Brooks Instrument has announced several updates for the company's latest mass flow meters/controllers. The Model 4800 Series now has digital communications via RS-232 and a downport connection option. In addition, it is the first of Brooks' mass flow devices to be fully RoHS compliant.

This one-to-one communication protocol allows the customer to provide a setpoint and receive the process value, select one of nine gases for the calibration curve, access the valve override function and access the re-zero function. The RS-232 protocol comes built-in to the product as part of its standard package.

Optional downport connections are now available on the Model 4800 Mass Flow Meter/Controller. In order to keep the advantage of the 4800 Series small footprint, Brooks utilized a proprietary standard downport option. This option allows top mounting for ease of maintenance and installation and also offers additional space savings over traditional mountings because there is no point-to-point tubing necessary. This option will be very attractive for customers who place a premium on space and ease of maintenance.

The RoHS Directive places Restrictions on the use of certain Hazardous Substances in electrical and electronic equipment. This Directive bans new electrical and electronic equipment containing more than agreed levels of lead, cadmium, mercury and certain other materials from being distributed in the EU. In Europe and Asia, customers continue to ask and require devices to be RoHS compliant. The 4800 Series is Brooks' first, fully RoHS compliant MFC.

New Fluke 113 Utility Multimeter Delivers Performance and Value for Solving Most Electrical Problems
Fluke Corp., a company focused on handheld electronic test and measurement technology, has introduced a new, easy-to-use utility multimeter designed to help utility workers, linemen and electricians, to quickly diagnose electrical problems. The new Fluke 113 Utility Multimeter gives utility users the means to quickly and easily do basic meter set and reconnect testing.

The Fluke 113 has the features needed to repair most electrical problems. Using the Fluke VCHEK LoZ, low impedance measurement function, users can simultaneously test for voltage or continuity. The min/max function lets them record signal fluctuations. The Fluke 113 can also perform diode tests. It provides both auto and manual ranging capabilities. It’s simple to use and delivers significant improvements over other utility multimeters. The Fluke 113 Utility Multimeter features added measurement functions, backlight and a much larger display that’s easier to view. In addition, because user safety is a central concern, the Fluke 113 Utility Multimeter conforms with the latest safety standards. It meets Measurement Category CAT III 600 V and CAT IV 300 V standards.

Convenience features include an integral holster with probe holders for easy storage. A large backlit display allows for easy visibility in low-lit areas. The optional ToolPak magnetic hanger allows the user to suspend the tool from steel surfaces for hands-free convenience. Fluke 113 Utility Meter comes complete with TL75 test leads, one 9 V battery and a printed users manual.

Skyray XRF Releases X-Ray Fluorescence Line in North America
Skyray XRF has recently introduced a new line of x-ray fluorescence (XRF) instruments to the North American market.

The product line includes a new portable x-ray fluorescence unit, the Pocket-II.  Bring the laboratory with you when utilizing this handheld XRF that performs accurate hazardous substance detection and elemental analysis. The Skyray XRF Pocket-II was designed to offer comfort (weighs less than 4 lbs.), function (utilizes Bluetooth technology and a removable PDA), durability and low-cost to organizations that require real-time field analysis.

US Market for Reagents for Chromatography Slated for High Growth through 2012
According to a new technical market research report, Reagents for Chromatography from BCC Research, the US market for reagents for chromatography was worth $2.9 billion in 2007. This is expected to increase to $5.2 billion by 2012, a compound average annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.6 percent.

The market is broken down into applications of gas chromatography, liquid chromatography, affinity, size exclusion and ion exchange chromatography, supercritical fluid chromatography and capillary electrophoresis. Gas chromatography reagents are the main driving force for the growth of chromatography reagents market. Valued at $690.2 million in 2007, this segment is expected to reach $1.9 billion by 2012, for a CAGR of 22.9 percent.

Another strong segment, affinity, size exclusion and ion exchange chromatography, is slated for a CAGR of 9 percent over the next five years. The segment reached $998.4 million in 2007 and is expected to increase to $1.5 billion by 2012.

The increased use in life sciences applications is the main cause for the majority of the growth in the liquid chromatography market. This segment was worth $1.0 billion in 2007 and should reach $1.5 billion by the end of 2012, for a CAGR of 7.1 percent.

The chromatography reagents market is directly related to the growth of the chromatography market, and the chromatography market continues to expand, especially as global economic conditions strengthen.

Pharmaceutical and biotech industries are the major consumers of chromatography reagents. Moreover, the enhanced need for biopharmaceuticals is encouraging the use of chromatography reagents in the biotechnology sector for protein analysis. The growth in life sciences applications in both research and quality control certainly also has had positive effect on the chromatography market.

The Avestagenome Project to Study Genetic Basis of Longevity and Create Genetic, Genealogical and Medical Database of the Parsi Community
Affymetrix Inc. has announced that it has signed an agreement with Avesthagen Limited, a biotechnology company based in Bangalore, India. Under the terms of the agreement, Affymetrix’ microarray technology will be used for The Avestagenome Project, a comprehensive genetic study of more than 60,000 Parsi individuals. The project will explore the genetic basis of longevity and create a genetic, genealogic and medical database of the Parsi-Zoroastrian population.

A better understanding of the genetic causes of longevity could have a major impact on the Indian Government’s healthcare budget and drug companies’ marketing efforts.

The use of Affymetrix technology will enable researchers to correlate genes with longevity, as well as neurodegenerative conditions, breast cancer, diabetes and other complex diseases that affect the Parsi community. The Parsi community was selected because of its longevity and its relatively genetically homogeneous population. The Avestagenome Project was designed to lead to discovery of novel biomarkers and drug targets that can result in predictive, preventive and personalized healthcare.

The Avestagenome Project takes a systems biology approach which encompasses not only genotyping but also expression profiling and transcriptomics. The genotyping phase of the project, which began on October 5, 2007, consists of 10,000 samples in the first year. By the middle of 2008, the team will perform expression profiling and transcript mapping experiments across a subset of the samples. The project is expected to be completed before 2013.

Spinco Biotech Pvt. Ltd. will supply the Affymetrix microarray technology and provide technical support to Avesthagen.

Eight Tips for Manufacturing Engineers about Leak Testing Equipment to Maintain Quality Control without Sacrificing Production Speeds
Must quality engineers and production managers always be at odds?  The former seeks perfection while the latter pushes for greater throughput.  With the latest improvements in leak detection devices, both agendas can be served, as the best examples of this testing equipment help speed the quality control process without sacrificing accuracy. 

Especially, when manufacturing for critical applications, where every single product must be tested, the consequences for component failure can come back to haunt the manufacturer in the form of expensive liability claims. Yet, armed with some advanced knowledge about what to look for in leak detection devices, test engineers can increase the odds that all products will roll off the production line with absolute quality assurance without acting as an anchor to production schedules.

"We had some older manual testers we used in Mexico, but I can honestly say that our new automated testers have cut the test time in half, if not a little more," says Brian Yutzy, design engineer at Marshall Gas Controls in San Marcos, Texas.

The gains come from a refocused emphasis on the process of selecting test equipment, one that recognizes the salient differences between devices. What follows are several important pointers that can help any manufacturing engineer determine which leak testing equipment can quickly recast the quality control department into a strong ally of the production schedule while still upholding the highest quality standards.

1) Insist on application specificity
A one-size-fits-all approach only succeeds at being universally mediocre. Leak testing equipment demands especially exacting attention to detail, since even very small leaks can mean the difference between product success or failure in critical applications. Any test equipment must be designed so that it can be adapted to accurately meet the needs of the quality check at hand.

“We used to build all of our test equipment from scratch and, although doing this worked for us, we needed to shorten our project time frame,” says Marshall Gas' Yutzy.  Since 1979, Marshall Gas Controls, a division of the S. H. Leggitt Company, has been a high-volume manufacturer of high-pressure and adjustable liquid propane gas regulators, hose assemblies and pigtails.

“We went looking for an alternative solution, and one of our reps pointed us to Uson, who we worked with to develop a system that fit our needs, they built in the necessary I/O cards, tools, and transducers.”

From its Houston, Texas headquarters, Uson L.P. has had leak detection and non-destructive testing for 40 years, pioneering the development of a broad range of testers designed specifically to address a wide variety of industrial manufacturing test applications.

For particularly challenging applications, the experience of the test equipment vendor accounts for the bulk of successfully channeling a leak tester's capabilities for the benefit of a specific product. The vendor should consider each unique case, and then maximize the potential of the test equipment to fit that need through a redesign of the tester or by reconfiguring it¾with custom designed pneumatic circuits, for example, to integrate within the manufacturer's production system.

2) Look for equipment that automates the testing process as much as possible
Ideally, test equipment must feature semi-automatic or fully automated leak detection systems that streamline product delivery, sealing, clamping, testing, and marking.

Timesaving features such as "infills," which reduce volumes and allow for varying container sizes to be tested in the same chamber with minimum changeover time and expense, PLC connectivity and remote-start input, can greatly speed the testing process.
Additionally, the latest multi-channel testers, some of which can run up to 10 channels, automatically cycle through all the tests at the push of a button.

“Our Uson tester has several really good routines built in that simplify the programming and allow us to complete our testing quicker than before,”
says Yutzy.

3) Examine ease of operation
A leak tester, no matter how capable its performance, is nothing if the human/machine interface lacks ready comprehension. Programming should be simplified by software with pre-formatted test configurations easily modified to each application.

Leak testers that work within the Windows environment also lend themselves toward instant, intuitive operation. Added features to look for include touch screen input, large graphical displays, selectable engineering units, built-in diagnostics and remote troubleshooting. "With the old testers, I was the only one who could support them, so if anything went down, I'd have to jump on a plane, occasionally even to China, to reload the software," says Yutzy.  "But since our new testers are a standardized piece of equipment, the staff at our remote plants can program them by themselves."

4) Check for fixturing that fits your product
Partly a product of application specificity, the physical process of affixing the product to the leak tester is extremely important, as failures here can quickly undue all other attempts at accuracy and expediency. At a minimum, leak detection testers should have attributes like automatic clamping, sealing, and interlocking guards that perfectly match the orifices of the part under test.  When speed counts, "quick connect" or "auto coupling" pneumatic self-sealing devices can be specified.

Some leak testers have the potential, by way of custom volume filling inserts, to accommodate industrial components ranging from lumens measured in millimeters, all the way up to 4.5"-diameter orifices. On the other hand, when complicated products, such as those with unusual geometry or multiple orifices, require testing, then a vendor who manufactures custom couplings must be located. Find one who will arrange custom CNC work to create fixtures to handle square and other odd-shaped orifices.

5) Hold out for options in output
When it comes to certifying a manufacturing process, there's nothing like a good paper trail. A complete leak detection system must include options for documenting the testing process. At a minimum, the tester should be able to input leak rates and other results right into a database such as Access or spreadsheet such as Excel, for archival purposes.

Other industry options for data downloading data include RJ-45 Ethernet connectors, RS-232 serial ports, PCMCIA card slots, and USB ports. Also helpful are screens that display results at the control unit, for interrogation by a supervisor as required. Marking capabilities, whether by ink, percussion or laser, also speed and reinforce the documentation process.

6) Consider repeatability
As any quality control person will tell you, a test has no meaning unless it can be repeated with the same results. Unlike reliance on the memory of an operator to initiate a sequence of tests, the automation of leak-detection actually improves repeatability because the testing process becomes non-subjective.  Innate to some leak detection equipment, the ability to automatically compensate for temperature and humidity changes also helps assure consistent product quality.

"The one thing I'm really pleased with, is the fact that we get repeatable results," Yutzy said. "Uson's Vector system is probably one decimal place more accurate than the equipment I was using before.  This allows us to do the tests faster, yet still be comfortable with the results."

7) Demand good support from the supplier
Like most any other sophisticated piece of equipment, a leak tester is only as good as the support it gets after it leaves the factory. Here again, the number of years a supplier has been in business counts for a lot, as this adds to its knowledge base in following up on challenging applications.

Look for a supplier that offers custom system design, installation and commissioning services.  As well, some suppliers provide online tools to help test engineers dial in their testing parameters.  As an example, Uson provides online tables that offer quick calculations for: hole diameter to flow rate calculation; leak correlation for one gas relative to another; leak rate to pressure drop relationship; flow rate conversion; conversion for volume; conversion for pressure; and hole/size/flow rate approximation.

8) Seek system flexibility for future upgrades
Nothing is constant. Product variations, specification changes and the introduction of new components all mandate changes in testing parameters. A quality leak tester can accommodate such changes, saving the expense of having to buy a totally new piece of equipment.

A modular design suits future needs especially well, as users can choose only those features that may be needed for initial requirements, but later expand the same unit to add capabilities for more complicated applications easily and economically.

One Month Until the 2008 Magnetics Conference
This two-day conference is a leading global event within the magnetics market, bringing together worldwide magnetics experts. This is a once-a-year opportunity for professionals in the magnetics market to assemble and discuss the latest magnetics developments.

The 2008 Magnetics Conference will focus on the latest advancements in magnetic applications, technology and materials. Serving OEM developers of products that utilize magnets and magnet systems, design engineers, OEM developers involved in EMC technology and magnetic effects, magnetics manufacturers and integrators, and material suppliers in the magnetics industry. Registration is $995.

Attend the 2008 Magnetics Conference to see industry-leading companies such as:
Advanced Magnet Lab, Alliance LLC, AR, Big Horn Valve, Inc., CMS Magnetics, Crane Aerospace & Electronics, Daido Electronics Co., Ltd., Dexter Magnetic Technologies, Electron Energy Corp., GMW Associates, Hitachi Metals, Ltd., Infolytica Corp., Magnequench International, Inc., Magnetic Power, Inc., MAGSYS magnet systems, Metrolab Technology, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Ozenbaugh Engineering, PolarisREM, LLC, Quadrant Technology, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, SuperPower, Inc., TarnoTek, Vector Fields Ltd., Walter T. Benecki LLC, WebMagnetics, Inc., West Coast Magnetics
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