Safety PLCs vs Safety Relays: Four Things to Consider
A proper Safety Control System (SCS) is a key element in keeping personnel and property safe from harm. The April edition of Hixson’s From Experience newsletter offers four things to consider when choosing between a Safety Relay or a Safety PLC in the design of an SCS.
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February From Experience: Bonus Content
As discussed in the February issue of From Experience, proper pipeline and component sizing are essential for effective pressure control in a liquid system. To develop a well-balanced piping system, pressure control devices should be integrated into the design. A few typical devices with actuated control valves include: Back Pressure Regulators/Pressure Regulators. Back pressure regulators […]
Read moreFrom Experience – February 2025
Maintaining optimal pressure within a liquid system is crucial for ensuring all the users are getting required flow, which helps prevent process upsets. Flow and pressure are interrelated in a pressurized system. In the February issue of Hixson’s From Experience newsletter, we look at the design considerations for pressure control in liquid systems. Read it […]
Read moreThree Key Reasons For Utilizing Simulation
Spreadsheet programs are used for data analysis by nearly every organization across the globe. While these programs work well for quick data analysis, they struggle with modeling complex systems. In manufacturing, simulation provides a more advanced solution for developing models that include the various micro-processes making up a larger production line. In the latest issue […]
Read moreUnderstanding Building Automation System (BAS) Communication Protocols
A Building Automation System (BAS) integrates various controls to enhance energy efficiency and reduce operational costs. However, ensuring all equipment works in harmony presents a key challenge: For optimal performance, the devices within a BAS must communicate seamlessly. This communication depends on protocols – standardized methods for exchanging data between devices. In the latest issue […]
Read moreNitrogen vs. Compressed Air for Dry Sprinkler Systems
Many facilities use compressed air for dry sprinkler systems, due to convenience and a lower initial investment. However, compressed air is also a common failure point for these systems, as its use can lead to pinhole leaks. Since these leaks can compromise entire sections of the dry sprinkler system, daily operations must be shut down […]
Read moreEH&S FE: Wastewater Pretreatment Systems Part 2
In the Summer issue of EH&S From Experience, we outlined six signs that you may need install a wastewater pretreatment system…or improve the one you have. After conducting research or discussions with your local sewer department, you may determine that it’s time for a new or upgraded system. If so, the next step is to […]
Read moreThe Value of Interstitial Spaces
The production areas within a food and beverage plant are the most critical spaces in the facility. In addition to the production equipment itself, these areas require the appropriate design and maintenance to support proper hygiene and sanitation. They are also typically the most utility-intensive spaces as well. In the latest issue of Hixson’s From […]
Read morePropylene Glycol: Too Much of a Good Thing
Throughout the food processing industry, propylene glycol is used in process heat transfer coolant systems when direct cooling with primary refrigerants is not acceptable, and the use of water alone would be at risk of freezing. After system maintenance or repairs, the propylene glycol and water concentration must be replenished in the system. Yet over […]
Read moreSix Signs Your Facility May Need a Wastewater Pretreatment System
Wastewater pretreatment is the process of removing pollutants from a facility’s wastewater to bring it from industrial levels of pollution (several thousand mg/L) closer to the more common residential levels of pollution (a couple hundred mg/L). At manufacturing plants, typical methods of wastewater pretreatment include equalization, pH adjustment, or pollution reduction. Of course, not every […]
Read moreStaying Safe: A Reminder from OSHA
Does your facility use meat grinders? The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recently sent out a reminder to keep your team members’ safe when working with this machinery. OSHA recommends that employees working with this equipment be trained to: Only use a proper plunger when feeding meat into grinders. Operate grinders only when feeding […]
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