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  • Member You - Safety for Your Production: Spark Detection Systems Reduce Your Risk of Fires and Explosions

    Best Laid Plans - Unexpected Events - and the Choices we Have
    Kevin was ready to get the day started. He only had one scheduled meeting all day, a real rarity. He was looking forward to a day in the office to catch up on calls, emails, filing, etc. As he walked out the door of his home he slipped on some ice and broke his ankle. Kevin’s day just landed in a totally different direction than what he originally intended.Julie woke up all set to get the week started. She was excited because she was ready to dig in and be a productivity maven. She had put a task list together and she was geared up to tackle it. Just as she knocked one item off the list and felt that she was just getting on a roll she was interrupted. The interruption itself isn’t really important to this story – whether it was a colleague “dropping by”, a client calling, or her son’s school – the fact remains, her roll was brought to a screeching halt.Does this sound even vaguely familiar to you?Many of us start out our days or our weeks very well intentioned, excited even, to be productive or make a dent in the “to-do” list. Occasionally, something unexpected happens. The unexpected event prevents us from being as productive as we would like to be. When this happens we have a number of choices. The choices are about how we think, how we behave, what we do, and how we respond.How do these unexpected incidents affect you? How do you behave when they happen? What do you think about when your productivity is directly impacted?The intent of this article is to highlight the choices we have when these situations arise. The more we are aware of the choices we have in unpredictable situations, the easier it is to identify a choice that makes the most sense in the moment.Choice of No acceptance – We see children pick this choice quite often when something doesn’t go the way they want. They get frustrated, pout, and throw a tantrum over it. As adults this i
    nds of events are stored so that important information is not lost. This enables analysis of alarms at any time:
    • When exactly did the spark stream happen?
    • How heavy was the spark stream?
    • How long did the extinguishment action last?
    • Where exactly did the spark stream appear?
    • When was the system out of action?
    • When and where did troubles appear?
    The answers to these questions can be found in the memory of the control console and the danger spots can be identified very quickly. The display field not only shows the alarm itself, but also informs about the measures that have been taken. The memory content can be printed out at any time to an external or internal printer.

    Automatic Function Checks

    To ensure cables are functioning correctly, they are constantly checked for open and short circuit conditions. In addition, spark sensor function tests are performed regularly and automatically. Extinguishing device function tests can be performed manually from the control console.

    The Spark Detector

    The most important component of a spark detection and extinguishment system is the spark detector. To suit the different and often very severe applications, three different types of sensors are used. All three sensor types have highly sensitive electronics which detect even the smallest of glowing particles.

    Spark Detector FM 1/8

    The FM 1/8 detector features reliable function even in very dense material flow or when a dust layer covers the optical element. It can be used at material temperatures up to 149°F (65°C), which corresponds to a temperature range of extraction systems for woodworking machines like saws, planers, sanding machines, etc.

    Spark Detector FM 3/8

    The FM 3/8 detector is used in applications with operating temperatures above 149°F (65°C) as can appear in drying processes, for example. Spark radiation is carried through fiber optic cables to t

    Rotary Die Cutting
    Rotary die cutting is a process used to cut paper, metal, rubber, plastic, vinyl and other material in a predetermined shape and size. This method is used to cut shapes and designs that cannot be accomplished by a straight cut on a web press or a guillotine cutter.The rotary method uses knife-edge cutting blades designed to cut a particular shape. A machine presses the die into the material to produce the desired shape. The blades can be designed to cut a diverse range of raw materials. Labels, envelops, folders, cartons and documents are just a few items produced using the rotary die cutting process.The cutting dies used in the rotary die cutting process are made from tungsten carbide. It is a very hard and expensive substance used in high volume production processes that justifies the extra costs incurred. Perforated blades or dies are used to form perforations on paper. These can be used for making receipts books, bills and tickets. Rotary die cutting equipment for industries involves relatively low upfront costs ranging from $50,000 to $70,000. However, the cost of replacing old and worn out blades is high.One major drawback of rotary die cutters is that changeovers are time consuming and difficult. This is because they require excessive amounts of material to re-register the printing to the desired cutting and creasing specifications. Rotary die cutting equipment only registers in the direction of travel. If the material shifts in any other direction, defects begin to appear.The rotary die cutter process is economical over a longer period. It is extensively used in manufacturing industry and stand-alone die cutting firms. However, the technology is changing at a fast pace, and new processes like laser die cutters are already in use. These are much faster and accurate than rotary die cutters.
    In any type of production facility, fire control encompasses a wide range of equipment or systems from building sprinklers to plant site fire departments. A spark detection/extinguishing system must be thought of as part of a plant’s overall security and safety network. Just as a residential alarm system provides protection to a homeowner, a spark detection system provides preventive protection against potential loss of human life, production facilities, equipment and costly downtime.

    Where do Spark Streams appear?

    Spark streams in dust collection systems are a very common danger. They are not easily detected and this means that they may exist but are not known! Consequently, attention is paid to a spark stream only when it is too late, namely when there has been an explosion or a fire.

    When working with industrial machinery, sparks are created very quickly. A blunt tool, a damaged bearing in the fan, an overheated motor or foreign body within the material can be the cause.

    Sparks are a constant danger in those factories where combustible materials are being worked, exhausted, transported, filtered or dried.

    The damage statistics provided by the insurance companies point out that filters, dust collection bins, silos and even complete production lines are the areas of a plant at greatest risk. Foreign bodies in the conveyed material, defective parts of the production machinery, friction processes as well as electrical sparks are all identified as fire generating. Here are the main danger areas known:

    • Fiber and Particle Board Industry: The fiber and particle board processing as well as the further processing of the panels by sawing and sanding
    • Wood-Working Factories: Working of materials by means of saws, planers, mortisers, hoggers, sanders and other wood working machines
    • Chemical Industry: Pneumatic conveyors of dusts and powders
    • Foodstuff Industry: e.g. Coffee roasting, tobacco processing and pneumatic conveying of powders
    Why is it so Dangerous?

    The spark itself is not dangerous. Here’s why: For the creation of fires or explosions there must be three elements that are combined simultaneously: a combustible material, oxygen and an ignition source. Removal of one of the elements will prevent a fire or explosion.

    In today’s production plants, we have to cope with all elements that can lead to fire damage or cause an explosion. Extraction systems and pneumatic conveyors increase the danger of fire. Once sparks and glowing embers are created, the pneumatic extraction system conveys this danger very quickly to other subsequent areas of the plant. The danger is when two of the three elements necessary for the creation of fires and explosions are transported, namely: air and ignition sources (sparks).

    When this conveyed danger meets combustible materials (filter cloth, deposited and combustible dust in a separator or silo) it becomes more and more likely that a reaction will happen.

    Environmental protection measures regarding dust emissions and tightened regulations for air pollution led to an increased use of filter systems, but the danger of dust explosions has not been reduced. In the process of drying, the dryer capacities have been steadily increased so that prevention of fires in these systems has become more important than ever.

    What happens after a filter fire? Environmental regulations prohibit plant operation without the filter system. The plant will not only have the cost of repairing the damaged filter system caused by fire but also absorb the extremely high loss of a production shutdown.

    According to individual reports, these production losses can exceed the damage costs many times over.

    The risk of fire can be efficiently reduced or eliminated by means of modern spark detection and extinguishment systems.

    Returned air to the plant also requires spark detection and extinguishment systems. Due to the high amount of material now collected in the dust filter systems, in certain circumstances clean air is allowed to be returned to the production buildings. Enormous savings in heating energy are achieved in this way. A filter fire, however, could quickly be transferred to the production area with devastating consequences.

    To protect such a system, all extraction ducts as well as the conveying duct to the material storage should be equipped with spark detection and extinguishment systems.

    How can you take Preventive Measures?

    Protection can be achieved by installing a modern spark detection and extinguishment system. The sensors detect sparks and glowing embers immediately after their creation. Upon detection and evaluation, countermeasures are induced immediately in order to eliminate the causes of a fire or an explosion.

    Let’s compare fire extinguishment systems with spark detection and extinguishment systems. Fire extinguishing systems combat fire after it has come to life, consuming material and air thus producing smoke and damage. A spark detection and extinguishment system eliminates one of the three elements (the ignition source) before it becomes a fire. In this way there is no fire, no smoke, and no damage.

    Spark detection and extinguishment systems are able to detect even the smallest of sparks or hot particles in extraction ducts, drop chutes or mechanical conveyors, and to instantly trigger countermeasures. Countermeasures can be: activation of an extinguishing system, diverting the transport path or interrupting the production. All these measures are taken within a split second.

    Detection of the ignition source is made by means of spark sensors recognizing the infrared radiation of sparks and glowing particles. These sensitive spark sensors are even capable of detecting sparks through layers of dust or through the conveyed dense material flow. The sensors give alarm signals to the control console, which processes the signals and activates the appropriate countermeasures automatically. Normally an extinguishing device is triggered, which is installed downstream from the spark detectors. This device releases a mist of water in the duct section where the sparks are transported. When no additional sparks are detected, the extinguishment spray is automatically stopped. While the extinguishment takes place, the production process can continue unless otherwise desired. Due to this special operation principle, spark detection and extinguishment systems are classified differently than sprinkler systems, deluge systems, or even explosion suppression systems.

    The Control Console

    The centerpiece of a spark extinguishing system is the control console.

    All signals given by the spark sensors installed in different plant areas are being accumulated and processed by a microprocessor. The extinguishing devices of the affected areas are activated without any delay.

    A practical fire protection concept also considers the demand for an almost uninterrupted production. The use of microprocessor technique including the corresponding software results in new possibilities to react on sparks. Integrated counters and time recording systems allow an exact assessment of the spark stream. A graded use of the existing countermeasures is then possible.

    For example, single sparks are only extinguished, but for heavy flow of sparks or when single ignition sources are detected over a longer period, further measures like machine shut down of the affected plant sections have to be taken. Diversion of the material transport is also possible using fast-acting abort gates.

    The microelectronics has many other advantages.

    Ease of Operation

    Where once little lamps indicated a flow of sparks, the trouble message is now displayed in clear text. Important functions and all alarms are displayed clearly. The buttons on the keypad light up and provide visual information.

    Integrated Memory

    Thousands of events are stored so that important information is not lost. This enables analysis of alarms at any time:

    • When exactly did the spark stream happen?
    • How heavy was the spark stream?
    • How long did the extinguishment action last?
    • Where exactly did the spark stream appear?
    • When was the system out of action?
    • When and where did troubles appear?
    The answers to these questions can be found in the memory of the control console and the danger spots can be identified very quickly. The display field not only shows the alarm itself, but also informs about the measures that have been taken. The memory content can be printed out at any time to an external or internal printer.

    Automatic Function Checks

    To ensure cables are functioning correctly, they are constantly checked for open and short circuit conditions. In addition, spark sensor function tests are performed regularly and automatically. Extinguishing device function tests can be performed manually from the control console.

    The Spark Detector

    The most important component of a spark detection and extinguishment system is the spark detector. To suit the different and often very severe applications, three different types of sensors are used. All three sensor types have highly sensitive electronics which detect even the smallest of glowing particles.

    Spark Detector FM 1/8

    The FM 1/8 detector features reliable function even in very dense material flow or when a dust layer covers the optical element. It can be used at material temperatures up to 149°F (65°C), which corresponds to a temperature range of extraction systems for woodworking machines like saws, planers, sanding machines, etc.

    Spark Detector FM 3/8

    The FM 3/8 detector is used in applications with operating temperatures above 149°F (65°C) as can appear in drying processes, for example. Spark radiation is carried through fiber optic cables to th

    Leadership-Take Time to Energize
    Elizabeth is the executive director of a large non-profit organization that provides wide-ranging services to people in need. She and her staff work long hours to help their clients as effectively as possible, always trying to make the best use of limited resources. While she acknowledges that hard work and scarce resources are the way of the non-profit world Elizabeth admits that she feels increasingly overwhelmed. She accepts as fact that she will work herself to burnout then leave the organization.Frank, a successful surgeon, is a popular, sought-after speaker at medical conferences around the world. He struggles to balance the challenges of his work with the demands of his family while trying to squeeze a little time for himself out of his tight schedule. Like Elizabeth, Frank has resigned himself to what he sees as the inevitable cost of his career. Living with exhaustion and fatigue is the price he has to pay for his success.Kate is the mother of three small children. She works a part-time job, struggling to maintain her home, care for her kids, spend time with her husband, get enough exercise, and tend to her aging parents' needs. Like Frank and Elizabeth, Kate resignedly accepts her situation the way it is. She feels powerless to change things.Kate, Frank and Elizabeth find themselves in demanding situations. They sought coaching because they were tired. They want to make changes in their lives and their livelihoods but because they see so many others experiencing similar fatigue, exhaustion and burnout, they assumed they had to accept the status quo. They felt resigned that this is just the way things are.A strong desire to serve the people around them drives Kate, Frank and Elizabeth. They are committed to doing their best and giving their all. Their intentions are good and their dedication is admirable. Their behavior, though, is incompatible with their goals; in fac
    nveying of powders Why is it so Dangerous?

    The spark itself is not dangerous. Here’s why: For the creation of fires or explosions there must be three elements that are combined simultaneously: a combustible material, oxygen and an ignition source. Removal of one of the elements will prevent a fire or explosion.

    In today’s production plants, we have to cope with all elements that can lead to fire damage or cause an explosion. Extraction systems and pneumatic conveyors increase the danger of fire. Once sparks and glowing embers are created, the pneumatic extraction system conveys this danger very quickly to other subsequent areas of the plant. The danger is when two of the three elements necessary for the creation of fires and explosions are transported, namely: air and ignition sources (sparks).

    When this conveyed danger meets combustible materials (filter cloth, deposited and combustible dust in a separator or silo) it becomes more and more likely that a reaction will happen.

    Environmental protection measures regarding dust emissions and tightened regulations for air pollution led to an increased use of filter systems, but the danger of dust explosions has not been reduced. In the process of drying, the dryer capacities have been steadily increased so that prevention of fires in these systems has become more important than ever.

    What happens after a filter fire? Environmental regulations prohibit plant operation without the filter system. The plant will not only have the cost of repairing the damaged filter system caused by fire but also absorb the extremely high loss of a production shutdown.

    According to individual reports, these production losses can exceed the damage costs many times over.

    The risk of fire can be efficiently reduced or eliminated by means of modern spark detection and extinguishment systems.

    Returned air to the plant also requires spark detection and extinguishment systems. Due to the high amount of material now collected in the dust filter systems, in certain circumstances clean air is allowed to be returned to the production buildings. Enormous savings in heating energy are achieved in this way. A filter fire, however, could quickly be transferred to the production area with devastating consequences.

    To protect such a system, all extraction ducts as well as the conveying duct to the material storage should be equipped with spark detection and extinguishment systems.

    How can you take Preventive Measures?

    Protection can be achieved by installing a modern spark detection and extinguishment system. The sensors detect sparks and glowing embers immediately after their creation. Upon detection and evaluation, countermeasures are induced immediately in order to eliminate the causes of a fire or an explosion.

    Let’s compare fire extinguishment systems with spark detection and extinguishment systems. Fire extinguishing systems combat fire after it has come to life, consuming material and air thus producing smoke and damage. A spark detection and extinguishment system eliminates one of the three elements (the ignition source) before it becomes a fire. In this way there is no fire, no smoke, and no damage.

    Spark detection and extinguishment systems are able to detect even the smallest of sparks or hot particles in extraction ducts, drop chutes or mechanical conveyors, and to instantly trigger countermeasures. Countermeasures can be: activation of an extinguishing system, diverting the transport path or interrupting the production. All these measures are taken within a split second.

    Detection of the ignition source is made by means of spark sensors recognizing the infrared radiation of sparks and glowing particles. These sensitive spark sensors are even capable of detecting sparks through layers of dust or through the conveyed dense material flow. The sensors give alarm signals to the control console, which processes the signals and activates the appropriate countermeasures automatically. Normally an extinguishing device is triggered, which is installed downstream from the spark detectors. This device releases a mist of water in the duct section where the sparks are transported. When no additional sparks are detected, the extinguishment spray is automatically stopped. While the extinguishment takes place, the production process can continue unless otherwise desired. Due to this special operation principle, spark detection and extinguishment systems are classified differently than sprinkler systems, deluge systems, or even explosion suppression systems.

    The Control Console

    The centerpiece of a spark extinguishing system is the control console.

    All signals given by the spark sensors installed in different plant areas are being accumulated and processed by a microprocessor. The extinguishing devices of the affected areas are activated without any delay.

    A practical fire protection concept also considers the demand for an almost uninterrupted production. The use of microprocessor technique including the corresponding software results in new possibilities to react on sparks. Integrated counters and time recording systems allow an exact assessment of the spark stream. A graded use of the existing countermeasures is then possible.

    For example, single sparks are only extinguished, but for heavy flow of sparks or when single ignition sources are detected over a longer period, further measures like machine shut down of the affected plant sections have to be taken. Diversion of the material transport is also possible using fast-acting abort gates.

    The microelectronics has many other advantages.

    Ease of Operation

    Where once little lamps indicated a flow of sparks, the trouble message is now displayed in clear text. Important functions and all alarms are displayed clearly. The buttons on the keypad light up and provide visual information.

    Integrated Memory

    Thousands of events are stored so that important information is not lost. This enables analysis of alarms at any time:

    • When exactly did the spark stream happen?
    • How heavy was the spark stream?
    • How long did the extinguishment action last?
    • Where exactly did the spark stream appear?
    • When was the system out of action?
    • When and where did troubles appear?
    The answers to these questions can be found in the memory of the control console and the danger spots can be identified very quickly. The display field not only shows the alarm itself, but also informs about the measures that have been taken. The memory content can be printed out at any time to an external or internal printer.

    Automatic Function Checks

    To ensure cables are functioning correctly, they are constantly checked for open and short circuit conditions. In addition, spark sensor function tests are performed regularly and automatically. Extinguishing device function tests can be performed manually from the control console.

    The Spark Detector

    The most important component of a spark detection and extinguishment system is the spark detector. To suit the different and often very severe applications, three different types of sensors are used. All three sensor types have highly sensitive electronics which detect even the smallest of glowing particles.

    Spark Detector FM 1/8

    The FM 1/8 detector features reliable function even in very dense material flow or when a dust layer covers the optical element. It can be used at material temperatures up to 149°F (65°C), which corresponds to a temperature range of extraction systems for woodworking machines like saws, planers, sanding machines, etc.

    Spark Detector FM 3/8

    The FM 3/8 detector is used in applications with operating temperatures above 149°F (65°C) as can appear in drying processes, for example. Spark radiation is carried through fiber optic cables to t

    Medical Billing - GU0 Record Fields 1 Through 7
    In the world of medical billing, there is no CMN more dreaded by billers than the DMEPOS CMN. This grandaddy of all CMNs is over 70 fields long. You practically need to be a certified medical practitioner to understand it to begin with. In the following series of articles, we're going to cover the various fields of this monster of a CMN. If there is something you're not clear on, consult your manual or call your carrier for complete instructions on how to fill out the field in question. So, if you're ready, hang onto your brain cells because you are going to need them for what's to follow.First of all, it is important to know what DMEPOS stands for. It is an acronym for Durable Medical Equipment, Prosthetics, Orthotics and Supplies. In other words, this CMN covers just about everything under the sun related to those three categories. That is the reason why this CMN is so long. It needs to be able to handle a number of items. We'll begin with field number 1.GU0 field 1, positions 1 - 3, is the record type. This must be filled with GU0 and most come after all F records for this patient in the claim file. Also, if other CMNs are being transmitted, it must come after all CMNs from GA0 to GP0.GU0 field 2, positions 4 - 5, is the sequence number. This is the number of the CMN in the claim file. There can be up to 99 CMNs transmitted with a claim file. So each record would be GU0-01, GU0-02 and so on.GU0 field 3, positions 6 - 22, is the patient control number. This field must contain the same patient ID number that is transmitted in the CA0 record and all subsequent records that also transmit this information.GU0 field 4, position 23, is the cert type. This field tells the carrier if the CMN is an initial, designated with a 1, a recert, designated with a 3, or a revised, which is designated with a 2. One of those codes must be entered. The field cannot be le
    ount of material now collected in the dust filter systems, in certain circumstances clean air is allowed to be returned to the production buildings. Enormous savings in heating energy are achieved in this way. A filter fire, however, could quickly be transferred to the production area with devastating consequences.

    To protect such a system, all extraction ducts as well as the conveying duct to the material storage should be equipped with spark detection and extinguishment systems.

    How can you take Preventive Measures?

    Protection can be achieved by installing a modern spark detection and extinguishment system. The sensors detect sparks and glowing embers immediately after their creation. Upon detection and evaluation, countermeasures are induced immediately in order to eliminate the causes of a fire or an explosion.

    Let’s compare fire extinguishment systems with spark detection and extinguishment systems. Fire extinguishing systems combat fire after it has come to life, consuming material and air thus producing smoke and damage. A spark detection and extinguishment system eliminates one of the three elements (the ignition source) before it becomes a fire. In this way there is no fire, no smoke, and no damage.

    Spark detection and extinguishment systems are able to detect even the smallest of sparks or hot particles in extraction ducts, drop chutes or mechanical conveyors, and to instantly trigger countermeasures. Countermeasures can be: activation of an extinguishing system, diverting the transport path or interrupting the production. All these measures are taken within a split second.

    Detection of the ignition source is made by means of spark sensors recognizing the infrared radiation of sparks and glowing particles. These sensitive spark sensors are even capable of detecting sparks through layers of dust or through the conveyed dense material flow. The sensors give alarm signals to the control console, which processes the signals and activates the appropriate countermeasures automatically. Normally an extinguishing device is triggered, which is installed downstream from the spark detectors. This device releases a mist of water in the duct section where the sparks are transported. When no additional sparks are detected, the extinguishment spray is automatically stopped. While the extinguishment takes place, the production process can continue unless otherwise desired. Due to this special operation principle, spark detection and extinguishment systems are classified differently than sprinkler systems, deluge systems, or even explosion suppression systems.

    The Control Console

    The centerpiece of a spark extinguishing system is the control console.

    All signals given by the spark sensors installed in different plant areas are being accumulated and processed by a microprocessor. The extinguishing devices of the affected areas are activated without any delay.

    A practical fire protection concept also considers the demand for an almost uninterrupted production. The use of microprocessor technique including the corresponding software results in new possibilities to react on sparks. Integrated counters and time recording systems allow an exact assessment of the spark stream. A graded use of the existing countermeasures is then possible.

    For example, single sparks are only extinguished, but for heavy flow of sparks or when single ignition sources are detected over a longer period, further measures like machine shut down of the affected plant sections have to be taken. Diversion of the material transport is also possible using fast-acting abort gates.

    The microelectronics has many other advantages.

    Ease of Operation

    Where once little lamps indicated a flow of sparks, the trouble message is now displayed in clear text. Important functions and all alarms are displayed clearly. The buttons on the keypad light up and provide visual information.

    Integrated Memory

    Thousands of events are stored so that important information is not lost. This enables analysis of alarms at any time:

    • When exactly did the spark stream happen?
    • How heavy was the spark stream?
    • How long did the extinguishment action last?
    • Where exactly did the spark stream appear?
    • When was the system out of action?
    • When and where did troubles appear?
    The answers to these questions can be found in the memory of the control console and the danger spots can be identified very quickly. The display field not only shows the alarm itself, but also informs about the measures that have been taken. The memory content can be printed out at any time to an external or internal printer.

    Automatic Function Checks

    To ensure cables are functioning correctly, they are constantly checked for open and short circuit conditions. In addition, spark sensor function tests are performed regularly and automatically. Extinguishing device function tests can be performed manually from the control console.

    The Spark Detector

    The most important component of a spark detection and extinguishment system is the spark detector. To suit the different and often very severe applications, three different types of sensors are used. All three sensor types have highly sensitive electronics which detect even the smallest of glowing particles.

    Spark Detector FM 1/8

    The FM 1/8 detector features reliable function even in very dense material flow or when a dust layer covers the optical element. It can be used at material temperatures up to 149°F (65°C), which corresponds to a temperature range of extraction systems for woodworking machines like saws, planers, sanding machines, etc.

    Spark Detector FM 3/8

    The FM 3/8 detector is used in applications with operating temperatures above 149°F (65°C) as can appear in drying processes, for example. Spark radiation is carried through fiber optic cables to t

    Attendance Recording System
    Attendance Recording System allows the companies to manage, monitor and produce reports of employee’s attendance. This system fits easily into the business structure and gives you greater control over your staff. It is mainly used by companies which have more than hundreds or thousands of employees. They are used in areas such as healthcare, financial services, transportation or distribution, retail management, government, manufacturing, and hospitality. Attendance recording system provides an accurate means of recording employee entries, exits breaks, absence and leaves. This can be compiled to produce the total hours worked and the amount that the employees should be paid. More advanced systems can automatically consolidate this information across multiple locations, track how hours are allocated across projects, and monitor overtime hours. Attendance recording system handles company’s time and attendance and access control needs.In attendance recording system, an employee has to press his or her thumb on the small machine fixed on a wall to record their attendance. The impression of the thumb matches with the one already stored in a computer, and this enters his or her attendance. Some employees use identifying cards to punch in and out. Time and attendance recording systems lets the employees enter their own information directly into the system, including flex-time hours, vacation time, and sick day information.By using attendance recording system you can make the attendance sheet into self-service attendance machine. Time and attendance recording machine has the following advantages : saves time and there is no need to manually take the attendance, provides authentication, eliminates errors, promotes employee self-service, manages and controls absenteeism, there is no way to check off someone else's name by mistake. You also have the additional benefit of not having to issue cards, or
    ivates the appropriate countermeasures automatically. Normally an extinguishing device is triggered, which is installed downstream from the spark detectors. This device releases a mist of water in the duct section where the sparks are transported. When no additional sparks are detected, the extinguishment spray is automatically stopped. While the extinguishment takes place, the production process can continue unless otherwise desired. Due to this special operation principle, spark detection and extinguishment systems are classified differently than sprinkler systems, deluge systems, or even explosion suppression systems.

    The Control Console

    The centerpiece of a spark extinguishing system is the control console.

    All signals given by the spark sensors installed in different plant areas are being accumulated and processed by a microprocessor. The extinguishing devices of the affected areas are activated without any delay.

    A practical fire protection concept also considers the demand for an almost uninterrupted production. The use of microprocessor technique including the corresponding software results in new possibilities to react on sparks. Integrated counters and time recording systems allow an exact assessment of the spark stream. A graded use of the existing countermeasures is then possible.

    For example, single sparks are only extinguished, but for heavy flow of sparks or when single ignition sources are detected over a longer period, further measures like machine shut down of the affected plant sections have to be taken. Diversion of the material transport is also possible using fast-acting abort gates.

    The microelectronics has many other advantages.

    Ease of Operation

    Where once little lamps indicated a flow of sparks, the trouble message is now displayed in clear text. Important functions and all alarms are displayed clearly. The buttons on the keypad light up and provide visual information.

    Integrated Memory

    Thousands of events are stored so that important information is not lost. This enables analysis of alarms at any time:

    • When exactly did the spark stream happen?
    • How heavy was the spark stream?
    • How long did the extinguishment action last?
    • Where exactly did the spark stream appear?
    • When was the system out of action?
    • When and where did troubles appear?
    The answers to these questions can be found in the memory of the control console and the danger spots can be identified very quickly. The display field not only shows the alarm itself, but also informs about the measures that have been taken. The memory content can be printed out at any time to an external or internal printer.

    Automatic Function Checks

    To ensure cables are functioning correctly, they are constantly checked for open and short circuit conditions. In addition, spark sensor function tests are performed regularly and automatically. Extinguishing device function tests can be performed manually from the control console.

    The Spark Detector

    The most important component of a spark detection and extinguishment system is the spark detector. To suit the different and often very severe applications, three different types of sensors are used. All three sensor types have highly sensitive electronics which detect even the smallest of glowing particles.

    Spark Detector FM 1/8

    The FM 1/8 detector features reliable function even in very dense material flow or when a dust layer covers the optical element. It can be used at material temperatures up to 149°F (65°C), which corresponds to a temperature range of extraction systems for woodworking machines like saws, planers, sanding machines, etc.

    Spark Detector FM 3/8

    The FM 3/8 detector is used in applications with operating temperatures above 149°F (65°C) as can appear in drying processes, for example. Spark radiation is carried through fiber optic cables to t

    The Woeful Home Seller
    Home sellers are having a difficult time enduring any success in this buyer’s market. Even expecting the worst is proven to be not enough as some sellers are realizing the market is a lot staler than they thought.Every seller by now has become aware they stubbornness will not be rewarded, at least not until the housing market completes a full rebound, which will not happen for at least a couple more years.The key to surviving the slumping market for a seller is anticipation; really anticipate the worst case scenario because there is a good chance it will come true.With that being said, do not try and sell unless you have to. But many people do have to, either for job relocation, a growing family or other financially important reasons. The article, “Vacant houses hold empty promise for sellers,” written by Lorraine Mirabella originally published in the Baltimore Sun and later reprinted in the February 8, 2007 edition of the Chicago Tribune, reports the depressing reality many home sellers are being forced to accept. “Steve and Debbie Lombel put their four-bedroom Colonial on the market in May, figuring it could take maybe four months to sell a house in the mid-$800,000 range.” “But almost nine months later, the now-empty house still is sitting on the market. The couple and their children have since relocated to temporary quarters in South Carolina for Steve Lombel's job. They have borrowed from their anticipated equity and sale to build a new house.”The Lombel’s Maryland property was hundreds of miles away and eating up thousands of dollars a month. “Their agent has held 21 open houses. They've cut their asking price three times and now are offering to pay mortgage loan points to help a buyer get lower interest rates.”Life after the housing boom (2001 to 2005) has not been very good to the average home seller. As the first month of 2007 has ended, many sellers were a
    nds of events are stored so that important information is not lost. This enables analysis of alarms at any time:
    • When exactly did the spark stream happen?
    • How heavy was the spark stream?
    • How long did the extinguishment action last?
    • Where exactly did the spark stream appear?
    • When was the system out of action?
    • When and where did troubles appear?
    The answers to these questions can be found in the memory of the control console and the danger spots can be identified very quickly. The display field not only shows the alarm itself, but also informs about the measures that have been taken. The memory content can be printed out at any time to an external or internal printer.

    Automatic Function Checks

    To ensure cables are functioning correctly, they are constantly checked for open and short circuit conditions. In addition, spark sensor function tests are performed regularly and automatically. Extinguishing device function tests can be performed manually from the control console.

    The Spark Detector

    The most important component of a spark detection and extinguishment system is the spark detector. To suit the different and often very severe applications, three different types of sensors are used. All three sensor types have highly sensitive electronics which detect even the smallest of glowing particles.

    Spark Detector FM 1/8

    The FM 1/8 detector features reliable function even in very dense material flow or when a dust layer covers the optical element. It can be used at material temperatures up to 149°F (65°C), which corresponds to a temperature range of extraction systems for woodworking machines like saws, planers, sanding machines, etc.

    Spark Detector FM 3/8

    The FM 3/8 detector is used in applications with operating temperatures above 149°F (65°C) as can appear in drying processes, for example. Spark radiation is carried through fiber optic cables to the detector.

    Daylight Spark Detector DLD 1/8

    For the most reliable detection of glowing or hot particles, no ambient light can be present at the sensor location. However, where an absolute dark surrounding cannot be guaranteed, sensors that aren’t sensitive to daylight or ambient light are used. These sensors operate only in the infrared spectrum of light so they can be installed at open transfer points or on conveyor belts.

    Thermo Detector TM 1/8

    The thermo sensor TM 1/8 is used for the additional inspection of large areas, like filter and silo systems. Its task is to monitor these areas for self-ignition of the material being conveyed or stored.

    The Extinguishing Device

    Water is the best extinguishing agent. Its excellent extinguishing efficiency mainly results from the high ability of heat absorption. For this reason it has a strong cooling effect that prevents re-ignition of the combustible materials.

    To obtain an optimal extinguishing efficiency, the area covered by the water must be kept as big as possible. This is accomplished by a fine atomization of the water. Atomization is achieved through a special nozzle and sufficient operating water pressure. With high atomization, the amount of extinguishing water can be minimized so that filter elements are not damaged by an excessive amount of water. This allows production to continue while extinguishing takes place.

    The operating pressure of the extinguishing device should be at least 60 PSI at a flow rate of 24 GPM per nozzle. If this pressure is not available, a pressure-increasing unit must be used. Because extinguishing nozzles are spring loaded and flush-mounted, they are contamination-free and do not obstruct the material flow.

    Not all extraction ducts of the plant are located inside the production building. Sometimes the extinguishing devices are required to be installed outside. Heat tape and insulating material is used to protect water pipes and extinguishing devices from freezing in areas exposed to frost. Special insulating bags are available for the extinguishing devices.

    Alternatives to Extinguishing Means

    In some production and processing systems, water cannot be used as an extinguishing means because it would have too much influence on the subsequent process. This is particularly true for the food industry where extremely high accuracy in respect to the material’s moisture must be observed. There are also other industries where water is not allowed as an extinguishing agent. There are alternatives: Diversion gates, shut-off gates, fire traps and even the actuation of a C02 or other inert gas system.

    Diversion Gates, Shut-off Gates, Fire Traps.

    In these industries, diversion gates to abort the material flow or shut-off gates and fire traps to stop the material flow are used. When the spark sensor detects a spark, or when the preset spark threshold is exceeded, the installed device is activated from the control console.

    CO2 Extinguishment

    If parts of the plant, complete machines or sensitive filter systems are to be extinguished, a C02 system can be activated by a spark detection system. For this application, spark sensors monitor the ducts leading to these areas. Upon detection of sparks, an alarm message is transferred to the CO2 system through voltage-free relays of the control console. The corresponding parts of the system are simultaneously shut-off by activating shut-off gates so that the incoming CO2 can now flood the contained area.

    Central Visualization Software

    Events recorded by several consoles that are installed in different areas of the plant are accessible through the visualization software. Such an application offers many advantages: Central actuation and processing of all spark alarms on one monitor is possible. The central acquisition of all events provides the operator with meaningful and comparable data. The remote control of the individual spark extinguishing systems make it possible to react rapidly on each alarm event and allows time and cost savings and shorter production interruptions.

    Spark Detection and Extinguishing Systems Insurance Premium Rates

    Fire insurance companies have acknowledged the minimized risk when automatic spark detection and extinguishment systems are installed, and may grant discounts on insurance premiums. Precondition for achieving discounts on premium rates is the use of an extinguishment system that is approved by a commercial and industrial property insurance and risk management organization. Factory Mutual is one such organization and the only North American organization to test spark detection and extinguishment systems. Factory Mutual requires stringent manufacturing standards and technical reliability that not only applies to the system, but also to the planning, installation and after-sales service.

    Conclusion

    Spark detection and extinguishing systems are among the most efficient fire prevention systems, which is a result of their highly developed technique and reliability. The use of these systems for various applications is even prescribed by Factory Mutual. All these factors lead to considerable investment reductions and improved safety for your plant, people and production.

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