Video Blog: Proper Supply Plumbing for Compressed Air Products

This video illustrates how improper compressed air supply lines can result in a pressure loss and impact product performance.

Russ Bowman
Application Engineer
EXAIR Corporation
(513)671-3322 local
(800)923-9247 toll free
(513)671-3363 fax
Web: www.exair.com
Blog: http://blog.exair.com/
Twitter: twitter.com/exair_rb
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/exair

Vortex Tube Keeps Electronics On Board Heated Tool Cool

Box and sm VT

The application is that our customer has a tool (represented by the blue box) which is heated up to as much as 80°C in some cases. The tool utilizes an on-board micro-processor which must stay down below 35°C in order to function properly to maintain the process. The micro-processor is housed inside a specially designed box with quick release opening and two M25 ports.

The customer came to EXAIR seeking a Vortex Tube that can withstand the heat produced and also keep the micro-processor below the target temperature.

Model 3208 Vortex Tube, set to 80% cold fraction and powered by compressed air at 60 PSIG produced more than enough cooling power to keep the small enclosure at the desired set point. Previously, the customer was using un-cooled compressed air, straight from a hose. That solution was not cool enough to do any good. The customer actually needed cold air to offset the constant heat of the tool.

If you will recall my previous blog about Cooling Load Cells; this is another great example of being able to provide just enough cooling power, right where it is needed and doing so with a very small product so it can fit into tight spaces.

Neal Raker, Application Engineer
nealraker@exair.com

Epiphanies Can Happen Anywhere And Everywhere

I know I’ve blogged before about some of the characteristics that were instilled in me from my father.   This past week I had an epiphany, it was yet another time when I realized that my position in EXAIR is exactly where I need to be.  I only wish it took place like the epiphanies from the episode of Scrubs below.  (Side note: Scrubs is by far my favorite TV show, next to Cheers, and Dukes of Hazard)

The event that sparked this epiphany was when I was scrolling through a few threads on a local motorcycle forum, and found a riding buddy had just bought a new bike.  The only problem he had, was that he had no way to pick it up. He needed a trailer.  So, I sent him a message and set my small trailer up for him.  He picked it up from my driveway while I was at work and will be dropping it back off this weekend.   The fact is that I have only been out riding with this guy two or three times.  I know who he is and where he works but through out mutual hobby I felt no worries about letting him borrow my trailer for a week.

As I was putting a ramp and straps on the trailer in my driveway, I had the epiphany.   One of the reasons I love my job here at EXAIR so much, is that I get to help our customers everyday.  Not only do I help our customers, I even get to help other team members with their projects on a daily basis.

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I’ve never been one to look for the spotlight but I have always been one that wants to help whenever possible and not expect a single thing in return.   It’s part of the whole Karma and pay it forward campaign that we need to see more of in the world today.

So if you need a hand with your compressed air system, give us a call.  It’s not just myself that will help here.  It’s every single member of our EXAIR team.

Brian Farno
Application Engineer
BrianFarno@EXAIR.com
@EXAIR_BF

Tips for Handling the Heat

As I talk with customers throughout the nation, without exception they say it’s hot where they are. The oppressive heat wave we are experiencing presents the peril of heat exhaustion. While heat exhaustion is not particularly dangerous in itself, it’s not something to be taken lightly. Without proper intervention, heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke, which can damage the brain and other vital organs, and even cause death.

There are two types of heat exhaustion:

Water depletion. Signs include excessive thirst, weakness, headache, and loss of consciousness.

Salt depletion. Signs include nausea and vomiting, frequent muscle cramps, and dizziness.

If you, or anyone else, has symptoms of heat exhaustion, it’s essential to immediately get out of the heat and rest, preferably in an air-conditioned room. If you can’t get inside, try to find the nearest cool and shady place.

– Drink plenty of fluid (avoid caffeine and alcohol).

– Remove any tight or unnecessary clothing.

– Take a cool shower, bath, or sponge bath.

– Apply other cooling measures such as fans or ice towels.

 If such measures fail to provide relief within 30 minutes, contact a doctor because untreated heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke. After you’ve recovered from heat exhaustion, you’ll probably be more sensitive to high temperatures during the following week. So it’s best to avoid hot weather and heavy exercise until your doctor tells you that it’s safe to resume your normal activities.

Gatorade®   has launched a Beat the Heat campaign. Their goal is to educate athletes, parents, and coaches about the importance of proper hydration to reduce heat-related illnesses during physical activity. It is free for the download at http://www.gatorade.com/pdf/BTH_safety_kit_5_24_13.pdf

EXAIR recognizes the risk that heat presents to our shop employees. We have moved their starting work hours to an earlier time, providing bottled water, ice, and popsicles. The customer still comes first, so we have  manned the shipping department on a rotation.

Please be safe. We value your good health.

Joe Panfalone
Application Engineer
Phone (513) 671-3322
Fax (513) 671-3363
Web: http://www.exair.com
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/exair_jp
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/exair