Heating Cable ~ Heat Trace

Heating cable is also referred to as heating tape and heat trace cable amongst the industry. Heating cable is used for a wide range of applications including pipe tracing, freeze protection, viscosity control, temperature process maintenance, roof and gutter, and much more. There are two main types of Heating Cables, Self Regulating and Constant Wattage.

Self Regulating Heating Cable products are used for freeze protection and process temperature maintenance for a wide range of industrial, commercial and residential applications. These industrial heaters are used to maintain the working temperature of pipes, fittings, valves, tanks and process equipment. Heat Trace cables regulate their heat output in response to changes in temperature. Self regulating heat trace cable can be overlapped and cut to length without loss of heat. It is ideally suited to freeze protection applications and snow melting but can be used in process applications as well. Self-Regulating / Self-Limiting heating cable automatically adjusts heat output based on surface temperature. Ideal for freeze protection and low temperature process maintenance. Self Regulating cable has advantages that is can be overlapped and cut to length without any heating loss on the cable. And In some caes can be used without control, though using a thermostat is always the suggested method fro turning the cable on and off.

Constant Wattage Heating Cables are ideally suited for applications where a particular watt density is required at all times. The heater element consists of a nichrome wire wrapped around parallel, insulated buss wires. Constant wattage cables are flexible, can be cut-to- length in the field, and are manufactured for use on voltages from 120 to 480V. Although not suited for overlapping, its constant output makes it an ideal choice for higher temperature applications where higher watt densities are required. Constant Wattage Cables are Equipped with a ground braid and can have an optional FEP jacket. Constant-Wattage heat trace provides precise and constant temperatures up to 500oF (260oC). Ideal for a wide range of applications. Constant wattage cable can be cut to length but there will then be a cold spot (unheated length) of cable that must be managed when you splice the cable together. Constant wattage cable must not be overlapped as it will over heat where the cable comes in contact with itself.

The theory behind heat trace is to replace the heat loss from a pipe into the space it travels through. A heat loss calculation is done and the result is a watts per foot of heat loss. To maintain a pipe temperature, the cable must equal or be greater than the heat loss. Heating cable is not good for actually heating up the pipe. It may work in unique applications, but in general it is for pipe temperature maintenance. Pipe trace cable can be used to keep down condensation in pipes when moving solids like flour where water creates a problem.

www.sordselectric.com

800-929-2845

TVSS = SPD ~ Surge Protection

As of September 29, 2009, the newest UL 1449 3rd Edition safety standard for Surge Protective Devices (SPDs) is in effect. If you are responsible for protecting critical electrical systems, you need to know about these changes!

At a Glance the changes are:

• Suppressed Voltage Rating vs. Voltage Protection Rating - The SPD’s let-through voltage is now measured as it is subjected to an IEEE defined 6kV/3kA “combination waveform".
• Nominal Discharge Current (I_n) - The SPD’s Nominal Discharge Current capability, up to 20 kA, is now reported with the suppressor’s specifications and on its labeling.
• Suppressor Categories - The new standard categorizes SPDs as one of four designated types based upon whether or not they are a component, and where within an electrical distribution they are to be installed.
• TVSS is now SPD - The term identifying a surge suppressor as Transient Voltage Surge Suppressor (TVSS) was retired and will now be called a Surge Protective Device (SPD).
• Extended Scope - 3rd Edition UL now governs suppression products designed to protect on electrical circuits up to 1000 V.

www.sordselectric.com

Proximity Sensor and Switches

A proximity sensor is a sensor able to detect the presence of nearby objects without any physical contact. A proximity sensor often emits an electromagneticor electrostatic field, or a beam of electromagnetic radiation (infrared, for instance), and looks for changes in the field or return signal. The object being sensed is often referred to as the proximity sensor's target. Different proximity sensor targets demand different sensors. For example, a capacitive or photoelectric sensormight be suitable for a plastic target; an inductive proximity sensor requires a metal target.

Proximity sensors can have a high reliability and long functional life because of the absence of mechanical parts and lack of physical contact between sensor and the sensed object.

Inductance is the property in an electrical circuit where a change in the electric current through that circuit induces an electromotive force (EMF) that opposes the change in current (See Induced EMF).

In electrical circuits, any electric current, i, produces a magnetic field and hence generates a totalmagnetic flux, Φ, acting on the circuit. This magnetic flux, due to Lenz's law, tends to act to oppose changes in the flux by generating a voltage (a back EMF) in the circuit that counters or tends to reduce the rate of change in the current. The ratio of the magnetic flux to the current is called the self-inductance, which is usually simply referred to as the inductance of the circuit. To add inductance to a circuit,electronic components called inductors are used, which consist of coils of wire to concentrate the magnetic field.

A capacitor or condenser is a passive electronic component consisting of a pair of conductors separated by adielectric (insulator). When a potential difference (voltage) exists across the conductors, an electric field is present in the dielectric. This field stores energy and produces a mechanical force between the conductors. The effect is greatest when there is a narrow separation between large areas of conductor, hence capacitor conductors are often called plates.

An ideal capacitor is characterized by a single constant value, capacitance, which is measured in farads. This is the ratio of the electric charge on each conductor to the potential difference between them. In practice, the dielectric between the plates passes a small amount of leakage current. The conductors and leads introduce anequivalent series resistance and the dielectric has an electric field strength limit resulting in a breakdown voltage.

Inductive switches can be used for counting of metal objects and detection of metal objects with any contact.

Capacitive Switches can be used for level control of water, plastics, foam products or food products.

Both Inductive and Capacitive switches can be made with NAMUR outputs so that the switches can be put in hazardous areas. The connections do need to go through a intrinsic safety barrier.

Most proximity switches are barrel shaped in the 5mm, 12mm, 18, and 30mm diameters. Also very common is the limit style proximity switch. Barrel materials are crastin, plastic, stainless steel, and nickel plated brass.

www.sordselectric.com

Sords Electric sells Carlo Gavzzi, ATC, Autonics, EMX and Pepperl and Fuchs proximity switches.

Power Supplies ~ Carlo Gavazzi

Carlo Gavazzi's range of switch mode power supplies are available in sizes up to 480 Watts.
Our power supplies will accept a 120/220 V input voltage and provide a DC voltage output. We offer outputs in 5 VDC, 12 VDC, 15 VDC, 24 VDC, and 48 VDC.
A built-in filter is available on some units. For higher currents, our 120 W, 240 W, and 480 W versions can be used in parallel mode. Also, some models are available with detachable wiring terminals.

Carlo Gavazzi also offers 3-phase power supplies available in these output sizes: 120W, 240W, 480W and 960W. They can be powered by either three phases, or two-phases at a slight derating, and are available with an adjustable 24VDC output (some models are also offered in 12 or 48VDC). Other standard features include diagnostic LEDs, power factor correction and power ready outputs, with parallel function on all models except the 120W version.

For applications where you require a lower profile (depth), then our SPM series is the perfect choice. They are available up to 100 W and represent our highest power class 2 supply (91 W).

Please visit our store to purchase Carlo Gavazzi Power Supplies.

Sords Electric also sells Carlo Gavazzi Solid State relays.

SPD05051

SPD05051B

SPD05101

SPD05101B

SPD05181

SPD05181B

SPD05301

SPD05301B

SPD05601

SPD05601B

SPD12051

SPD12051B

SPD12101

SPD12101B

SPD121201

SPD121201B

SPD121201BF

SPD121201BFP

SPD121201BN

SPD121201BP

SPD121201F

SPD121201FP

SPD121201N

SPD121201P

SPD121203

SPD12181

SPD12181B

SPD12301

SPD12301B

SPD12601

SPD12601B

SPD15051

SPD15051B

SPD15101

SPD15101B

SPD15181

SPD15181B

SPD24051

SPD24051B

SPD24101

SPD24101B

SPD241201

SPD241201B

SPD241201BF

SPD241201BFP

SPD241201BN

SPD241201BP

SPD241201F

SPD241201FP

SPD241201N

SPD241201P

SPD241203

SPD24181

SPD24181B

SPD242401

SPD242401B

SPD242403

SPD24301

SPD24301B

SPD244801

SPD244801B

SPD244803

SPD24601

SPD24601B

SPD24901

SPD24901B

SPD249603

SPD249603L

SPD481201

SPD481201B

SPD481201BF

SPD481201BFP

SPD481201BN

SPD481201BP

SPD481201F

SPD481201FP

SPD481201N

SPD481201P

SPD482401

SPD482401B

SPD482403

SPD48301

SPD48301B

SPD484801

SPD484801B

SPD484803

SPD48601

SPD48601B

SPD489603 www.sordselectric.com

Uninterruptible Power Systems - UPS

Green… Green… Green, today that seems to be a constant mantra that we are hearing from various sectors such as Government, Construction, and Consumers. Being Green is not an exotic disease that leaves your complexion looking like a Martian. Rather being Green is about conserving our valuable resources. Our resources are being depleted at a rate that some say will cause us to run out of resources very soon. I don’t know that I would be like Chicken Little running around screaming that the sky is falling, but we do need to take heed to the problems that do exist, and do what we can to conserve the resources we still have.

This brings me to my subject, Efficiency in UPS Systems. As I look through the trade magazines I have noticed that more and more is being talked about having Data Centers and other areas of Critical Power Back Up systems to become more efficient. UPS systems are found in most business’ today whether they be large or small. They are needed to protect the critical power required for Computers, Emergency Lighting Systems, Laboratory Equipment and more. All are using electrical energy to provide an uninterruptible source of power to these critical systems.

In case you haven’t heard, our electrical power generation facilities are being stretched to capacity. Then on top of that we have a Congress that would like to institute a program called Cap and Trade into law. The effect of this will be less energy production and higher prices for what energy we can get. All these possible new regulations and current production capabilities mandates that we need to become more Energy Efficient, this is a must for all of us. Most UPS manufacturers are promoting that their units are energy efficient, but when we begin to compare them side by side you will notice that some do not meet the mark. In the past some have purchased their UPS systems based on Name Brand Recognition alone, this may not be the best approach if you are really interested in getting the best efficiency and performance from a UPS system. Just because a company is large and well known does not mean they have the best equipment. Also saving a buck in the purchase price may end up taking a big bit out of your wallet when paying for wasted electricity for years down the road. Remember the efficiency of the system is what will ultimately save you on your energy bill for back up power, and again in the cost of cooling and cooling capacity, because efficiency means less heat being generated. Also check the output power factor of a UPS unit. This will be the key factor in knowing how much real power (kW) you will have available for your equipment, because you don’t want to be doing this again in a year or so when up grading your servers or add other equipment. The Input Power Factor is extremely important if you are being billed from your utility a power factor penalty charge. Check out the Harmonic feed back level because this can cause problems with other equipment up stream from the UPS. All of these factors will also play a part in Generator selection.

When selecting a UPS you must first know what power requirements you need for today and tomorrow. What amount of floor space will you be willing to allocate for this equipment. How much Back UP Time will be required because this will dictate the battery requirements and additional space for their placement. Think about peripheral equipment such as Maintenance Bypass Switches, Transformers, Surge Suppression Devices, Power Distribution Units, UPS Management Software, Tie-Cabinets (Parallel Systems), and Air Conditioning.


UPS units come in many different sizes and typology. The most popular systems are True On Line Systems or Duel Conversion systems. These will provide you with the best protection and power conditioning for your equipment.

We have many different brands for you to choose from depending on your application requirements. If you want the best system for your application give us a call and we can help you identify your systems requirements and select the best UPS for the job. We deal in UPS systems daily as well as power related problems, and we are familiar with the changes that are occurring in the industry. Call Syd Orr at Sords Electric today for more information.

Sords Electric

LASER Switches

Laser switches are photo Electric Switches with a punch.

Our Laser PhotoElectric switches take it a step up from the standard visible or infrared light photo electric switches.

Using a laser, usually red, the laser switch offers a few advantages over the standard photo switches including longer range and smaller target size.

The Maximum range of our laser switches is 160 feet. If using a thru beam system you the entire 160 feet can be utilized, whereas if retro reflective, then the effective range is 80 feet, to the reflector and back.

The spot size for laser switches if very small and consistant. A standard photo electric switch sends out a beam that is cone shaped, the spot size gets bigger (and weaker) the father it travels. This can lead to inaccuracies and poor beam intensity. The laser switch keeps its’ intensity as well as a consistent beam size. With a laser switch the edge of a product can be sensed on an assembly line for packaging or sorting applications.

Laser Switches, starting around 100.00, can be a great solution to a sensing application. Let Sords Electric help you pick out a Laser switch.

www.sordselectric.com

216-765-4230

PhotoElectric Switches and Sensors

Sords Electric Sells Photo Electric Switches and Sensors

Photoelectric switches use a light source to detect an object. The switch then changes it's logic or switch to make an action, like an alarm or movement of a device.

The photoelectric switch uses either visible light or infrared light as it's source. The object being sensed should be reflective for a diffuse switch or the use of a reflector is required and the object breaks "the beam" as in an elevator or garage door switch.

A thru beam system utilizes a transmitter and receiver. the Transmitter sends out the light beam and is directed at a receiver unit. Both units need to be powered and interconnected together for the system to work. Advantages are the longest field of view is achieved and the most secure sensing is realized via polarization. The main disadvantage is that each unit must be wired and interconnected together. A "thru beam" system can also be utilized using a reflector. this is called retro-reflective. The retro-reflective system has the advantage over a thru beam of all the logic and power supply being located in one box and one area. It is also more secure like the thru beam system by using polarizing filters that turn the light and only allow the correct "polarization" to be sensed by the receiver. The retro-reflective unit as the receiver and transmitter housed in a single unit. Thru Beam and Retro-reflective systems are used for counting, sorting and sensing the presence of an object or person for safety or security reasons.

The Diffuse system relies on the object being reflective, these are usually used in an industrial setting sensing a product or color code or marking on a product or box. Like the retro-reflective unit the transmitter and receiver are in the same unit. The distance is usually quite short so that the reflected light is able to be sensed. The target does not usually have the reflective qualities of a reflector. A diffuse system is used when a thru beam or retro-reflective cannot be used or when sensing color or a bar code.

All Photo Electric systems need an output to communicate with the PLC or system logic. Most use NPN or PNP logic but some have built in relays (1 amp usually) to give the output signal. The signal can go to a computer, PLC or directly to the system like a motor or contactor or alarm.

Call Sords Electric for more information or for application help.