Kele Blog

Burner Controls: Deep Dive into the Brains of Industrial Combustion

Posted on by Kele Inc

All information was provided by Fireye. Learn more at fireye.com

Kele has recently partnered with Fireye to bring you new and innovative products that will help you do business better when it comes to combustion control and flame safety. Today, we’re highlighting burner controls and how you can leverage them in your next project. Let’s go!

With burners being the workhorse of many industrial processes, keeping them running safely and efficiently relies on a complex system called burner controls. We’re going to explore specific components, troubleshooting techniques, and advanced control strategies that ensure smooth operation so you can get a better look at the big picture when it comes to this type of product.

To begin, let’s get a better understanding of essential components that help to create precise combustion. We’ll cover six different types: flame safeguards, fuel shut-off valves, ignition systems, combustion air control, safety limit switches, and BAS integration.

Flame Safeguard

There are three different types of flame safeguards: ultraviolet (UV), infrared (IR), and rectification (flame rod). Each type comes with specific advantages for different flame characteristics and environments. When it comes to its functionality, flame safeguards continuously monitor flame presence. It utilizes a detector to “see” the flame’s UV or IR radiation or measures the change in electrical current caused by the flame (flame rod). It can then initiate burner shutdown in case of flame loss or improper ignition sequence.

Fuel Shut-Off Valve

The two types of valves we’re covering are solenoid valves and motorized valves. Your selection depends on fuel type, pressure, and flow rate needs and requirements. Its main function is to help regulate fuel flow based on flame safeguard signals. It will open to allow fuel flow during proper operation and closes tightly to stop fuel delivery in case of a safety issue.

Ignition System

When choosing an ignition system, your final choice of a spark ignition system, hot surface igniter, or pilot light, will depend on burner type and fuel. The right system will provide the initial spark or pilot flame to ignite the main burner fuel.

Combustion Air Control

You can choose between dampers and valves for combustion air control. These two distinct products help manage airflow for proper air-fuel mixture. They also regulate the amount of air entering the burner to ensure optimal combustion efficiency and minimize emissions.

Safety Limit Switches

For safety limit switches, you can choose from pressure switches, temperature switches, or flow switches. All types assist in monitoring critical operating parameters. They also act as fail-safe mechanisms. They are designed to automatically shut down the burner if pressure, temperature, or flow exceeds safe limits, preventing potential accidents.

Building Automation System (BAS) Integration

BAS integration enables centralized monitoring and control of burner systems from a designated BAS interface. This allows for data logging, performance analysis, and remote troubleshooting.

What Are Good Troubleshooting Techniques for Optimal Performance?

  • Flame Safeguard Issues:
    • Check for dirty or malfunctioning flame detector.
    • Verify adequate fuel pressure and proper air-fuel mixture.
    • Ensure proper wiring and connections within the flame safeguard system.
  • Fuel Shutoff Valve Problems:
    • Inspect the valve for wear or debris that might impede proper closure.
    • Test the solenoid or motor for proper operation based on the valve type.
    • Verify electrical connections and control signals to the valve.
  • Ignition System Malfunctions:
    • Check for fouled spark plugs or damaged igniter components.
    • Ensure proper gas flow to pilot lights if applicable.
    • Verify adequate voltage reaching the ignition system.
  • Combustion Air Control Problems:
    • Inspect dampers or valves for proper movement and linkage issues.
    • Ensure no obstructions are restricting air intake.
    • Calibrate air flow sensors if integrated into the control system.

 

Take It One Step Further with Advanced Control Strategies for Enhanced Efficiency

  • Oxygen Trim Control: Utilizes an oxygen sensor to measure exhaust oxygen levels and adjust air-fuel ratio for maximum combustion efficiency.
  • Combustion Ratio Control: Maintains a specific ratio of fuel to air for processes requiring precise temperature control.
  • Cascading Burner Control: Coordinates the operation of multiple burners in a sequence for optimized heat output and fuel usage.
  • Modulating Burner Control: Continuously adjusts fuel flow and air intake based on real-time process demands, maximizing efficiency and minimizing fuel waste.

 

By understanding the intricacies of burner control components, troubleshooting techniques, and advanced control strategies, you can ensure the safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible operation of your industrial burners. Referencing resources from Kele, Fireye, and other knowledge bases, provides a deeper understanding for specific components and technical specifications. Remember, consulting with a qualified HVAC/BAS technician is crucial for maintaining your burner control system and keeping your industrial processes running smoothly.

Contact Kele today and see how we can help you with your combustion control and flame safety needs—we’ve got you covered!

Check out our Fireye Product Selections

Burner Control Plug In Modules

Discrete Flame Scanners

Flame Amplifiers

Flame Detector Cables

Flame Safeguard Mounting Hardware

Flame Safeguard Primary Controls

Integrated Flame Scanners

Keyboard Display & Operator Interface

RTD Sensors & Transmitters

Shop All Fireye Products Here

Don’t Be Tardy: Why Schools Need to Focus on HVAC & BAS Upgrades Now

Posted on by Kele Inc

In today’s educational landscape, creating and maintaining a healthy and efficient learning environment is paramount. This is where HVAC systems and Building Automation Systems (BAS) come into play. Just like staying on top of deadlines for a school project, schools that prioritize their needed retrofits and projects now, will reap significant benefits in the long run.

What exactly is on the agenda for this year’s school bidding season?

  • Aging Infrastructure: Many schools and educational facilities grapple with outdated HVAC systems, leading to inefficiency, increased energy costs, and potential indoor air quality (IAQ) issues.
  • Evolving Educational Needs: Today’s classrooms often incorporate technology and collaborative learning spaces, which require precise temperature and ventilation control for optimal learning conditions and safety concerns.
  • Focus on Sustainability: There’s a growing emphasis on energy efficiency and environmental responsibility for all. Upgrading HVAC and BA systems with energy-saving technologies aligns with these goals.
  • Post-Pandemic Considerations: Improved ventilation and air filtration are crucial for mitigating the spread of airborne illnesses. Modern BAS can optimize these systems for a healthier environment which keep children safe and in school—which is a top priority and concern for educators, parents, and society as a whole

The Center for Climate Integrity conducted a study in 2022 which estimated that by 2025, there is going to be a 39 percent increase in the number of school districts that see 32 or more days over 80 degrees . AND around 1,815 districts (which serve 10.8 million students) will experience three more weeks of over 80 degree school days in 2025.

What are some benefits of upgrading commercial HVAC & BAS items that are on the agenda?

  • Enhanced IAQ: Modern systems provide better air filtration and ventilation, minimizing allergens, pollutants, and airborne pathogens.
  • Improved Thermal Comfort: Precise temperature control ensures a comfortable learning environment for students and staff, which helps to foster better focus and productivity.
  • Increased Energy Efficiency: Advanced technology, equipment, and BAS optimization can significantly reduce energy consumption, leading to substantial cost savings.
  • Reduced Maintenance Costs: Newer systems require less maintenance, meaning that you’ll minimize disruptions and long-term and unexpected expenses.
  • Enhanced Building Intelligence: The right BAS provides real-time data on system performance and maintenance. By enabling proactive maintenance and optimization for peak efficiency, you’ll never be caught unaware.

Don’t wait until report cards are due!

Whether you’re building a new school or retrofitting an existing one, Kele offers customized solutions, so you get what you need. By investing in HVAC and BAS upgrades now, you’ll help position schools and educational facilities for success. Improved learning conditions, reduced costs, and a commitment to sustainability are just a few of the rewards that will be reaped.

Contact Kele today to discuss your school’s specific needs and explore how we can help ensure a healthy, efficient, and future-proof learning environment.

 

Click the button below to check out our offering for school bidding projects

FOCUS ON SCHOOLS

Fire Safe Valves

Posted on by Kele Inc

Contributed by: Bray Controls Andina, a subsidiary of Bray International, Inc.

Fire Safe Valves: What are they and what are they for?

Safety is a determining factor when selecting a valve. Thanks to the experience attained by Bray over the years, today we have a portfolio of products that ensure reliability under the most demanding operational conditions. The risk of fire exists for all kinds of production plants, but there are certain industries and processes that, due to their nature are more exposed to this type of emergency. Companies need valves that help reduce risk and control dangerous situations. We will address the issue from the perspective of the API (American Petroleum Institute) standards, recognized worldwide as the standard to determine if a valve fulfills its Fire Safe function.

This writing is not intended to be a treatise on Fire Safe valves, and we recommend that if anyone is interested in delving into the subject, they turn to the full study of API standards and specialists. However, as valve manufacturers and connoisseurs of some processes – directly involved in developing the standards – we have the knowledge and experience to share our opinion on this matter. What we intend is to share this experience and open communication with you to inquire about a specific topic that you consider pertinent.

Fire Safe Valves are designed and built to provide resilience in the event of a fire …

When it comes to Fire Safe valves, it is important to differentiate a valve with a Fire Safe design from a valve that has been tested and certified to operate under those conditions. Fire Safe Valves are designed and built to provide resilience in the event of a fire accident – ensuring sealing and operational performance – allowing them to continue their function of retaining fluid in the pipeline after being exposed to this emergency condition. To be considered Fire Safe, manufacturers have to test the design under strict guidelines. Bray Fire Safe valves have been tested and certified by an accredited certification body and are guaranteed to seal after having been subjected to the procedures established by the norm and standards.

There are several organizations such as ISO, API, BS, EN, among others, that have procedures to perform a fire test on Fire Safe valves; these tests may vary slightly in their method and specifications. Bray valves are certified under API (American Petroleum Institute): API 607, API 6FA, and API 6FD. For a valve to have one of these certifications, it must pass the Fire Test designed for the applicable standard. In this test, the valves are exposed to defined fire conditions within the limits of acceptability established for each valve model, diameter ranges, and materials, under pressure.

Fire Safe valves are generally used in processes where the fluids present in the operation, both internal and external, are flammable, or when there is a classified area in the plant where there is a potential danger of fire that can compromise the safety of personnel, the environment, and facilities. These types of valves are ideal and commonly used in fuel pumping and distribution systems, reception, or dispatch terminals for flammable products. Reliable fire protection is essential for industries with sensitive applications. Fire Safe valves are required for different processes in the Oil & Gas, Petrochemical and Chemical Industries; and any industry that handles flammable fluids where a reliable and safe closure is required.

Which standards guide Bray Valves?

The standards for testing and certifying the design of Fire Safe Valves were born more than 50 years ago: however, to date, there have been many important developments of the standards.

Within API there are different standards depending on the type of valve:

  • API 607, 7th ed.: Fire Test for Quarter Turn Valves and Valves Equipped with Non-Metallic Seats (ISO 10497 Equivalent)
  • API 6FA, 3rd ed.: Fire Test for Valves
  • API 6FB, 3rd ed.: Fire Test specification for end connections
  • API 6FC, 4th ed.: Fire Test specification for valves with Automatic backseat
  • API 6FD, 1st ed.: Fire Test for Check Valves

API 607 is issued by the API Downstream segment for Refineries and Facilities (production plants). The API 607 standard is written by Subject Matter Expert (SME) Engineers from end users and manufacturers, and its scope has varied over the years. In the fourth edition of API 607 the standard covered soft seat quarter turn valves. In the seventh edition, the coverage changed to “quarter turn valves and other non-metallic seated valves”. API 607 certifications are for intermediate sizes and only certified with manual operators.

The third edition of API 6FA has been in effect since 1999. The standard was written to test API 6A (Standard for Christmas Tree Valves and Wellhead Equipment) and API 6D (Standard for Conveyor Line Valves) valves.

The test parameters are similar to API 607 but applied to non-soft seat valves, the major difference between the operational test procedure that is performed after the valve cool-down period. Therefore, the joint 607/6FA rating can sometimes be achieved with additional tests at the end. API 6FA is mostly used for metal seated products including ball, gate, and globe valves.

API 6FD is the specific standard for check valves and has a single edition published in 1995. The standard is very similar to API 6GA; the variation is found after the cooling period, since in an API 6FGA test the valve is operated open and closed, while in the test of a check valve, the direction in which the fluid is going is reversed to check its operation.

Test Overview

The fire test verifies that the valve seats and gaskets have an internal seal with the minimum leakage allowed during a fire. An API fire test consists of closing the valve completely in a pressurized environment with a water line, where it is subjected for a period of 30 minutes to fire with temperatures whose range varies depending on the test (API 607 handles a range between 750°C and 1000°C) – until the valve body reaches a temperature of 650°C or more. The goal is to completely envelop the burning valve to ensure that the seat and sealing areas are exposed to high temperature. The intensity of the heat input is controlled with thermocouples and calorimetry cubes. After testing, the valve must be able to go through at least one full open and close cycle. In those 30 minutes, it is measured to ensure that emissions do not exceed the maximum allowed.

As an example, a McCannalok double offset butterfly valve was tested using a size of NPS 8 (DN 200). According to the API 607 standard, maximum allowable seat leakage is 800mL/min during low pressure heating, and 320mL/min during cooling. Our McCannalok valve tested at 0.0mL/min during both, heating and cooling stages.

Shop Our Bray Offering

Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) Goes Global

Posted on by Kele Inc

IAQ has gone global. No really—as value for IAQ progresses and sees growth worldwide, the industry as a whole is seeing IAQ gain momentum everywhere in real time.

And why is IAQ making waves globally?

Well according to the EPA’s Science Advisory Board, poor/bad IAQ ranks as a top five environmental risk for public health. In a world where we have to worry about not only high-risk pathogens but also outdoor pollutants like smog and wildfires, IAQ must be able to be able to battle different things all at the same time.

This is why industry governing bodies, like ASHRAE, are on the front lines when it comes to recommending standards that help keep society safe and healthy. One great example deals directly with IAQ in school buildings/facilities. Per ASHRAE regulations, their recommendation for CO2 levels in classrooms is that CO2 levels be kept below 700 parts per million. (For a full list of ASHRAE IAQ requirements click here.) And the craziest thing? The U.S. Green Building Council and OSHA have even stricter requirements when it comes to CO2 levels.

Keep in mind . . .

So here are some helpful tips regarding IAQ to make your life easier! The three principles for good IAQ are:

  • Eliminate—rid the building/facility/room of the source where you can,
  • Ventilate—dilute the pollutant source,
  • Filtrate—filter the air to capture and then rid it of pollutants.

And keep in mind the 12 parameters of IAQ:

  • Room temperature
  • Air movement
  • Relative humidity
  • Carbon dioxide (CO2)
  • Carbon monoxide (CO)
  • Respirable Suspended Particulates (PM10)
  • Nitrogen dioxide (NO2)
  • Ozone (O3)
  • Formaldehyde (HCHO)
  • Total volatile organic compounds (TVOC)
  • Radon (Rn)
  • Airborne bacteria

(For more information on the IAQ certification scheme for offices and public places, click here.)

Save yourself by implementing lifesaving IAQ measures

Market reports and their data have never been more popular for the insights that they can shed light on regarding material source analysis for ecological concerns, manufacturing analysis for code and regulation enforcement, technical data, and more. And any actions that can be taken to eliminate bad IAQ are paramount to the continued effort to keep the public safe when it comes to air quality. For a deeper understanding as to how you can get better IAQ or if you suspect the space you’re in is having IAQ issues, check out this great article put out by the EPA. Protect your health and the health of others by investing in ways to protect against hazards and improve IAQ. Kele is here to help you achieve that goal and maintain it going forward.

Source the parts you need on kele.com or give us a call so we can help you with customized solutions to match your specific scenario. We help make it easy!

Shop Our IAQ Offering

Kele, Inc. Joins Forces with AC Controls

Posted on by Kele Inc

MEMPHIS, Tenn. and CHARLOTTE, N.C., —Kele, Inc., a portfolio company of The Stephens Group, LLC, today announced its acquisition of AC Controls and AC Technical Services (“ACC”), a distributor and rep of industrial process and combustion applications. The acquisition continues to expand Kele’s footprint within the industrial automation market. ACC will become an integral part of the industrial offerings of The Kele Companies which includes Lesman Instrument Company (Bensenville, IL) and A-tech Inc. (Tulsa, OK).

Kele President and CEO Danny Lyons said, “ACC adds another leading industrial automation company to the Kele Companies. ACC is an industry leader with a focus on valve automation, field service, systems integration, and technical support. Along with its geographical coverage and strong line card, ACC is a natural fit with our Lesman Instrument and A-tech businesses.”

President of Kele Industrial, Mike DeLacluyse, had this to say, “Jim and his team have done a fantastic job growing ACC into a highly respected organization and we are thrilled to have them as our partner. ACC brings us added capabilities that we look forward to expanding throughout our geographies.”

“AC Controls is proud to join forces with the Kele Companies as it will provide our team with additional resources to serve our customer base. Kele’s culture closely aligns with ours, creating a growth opportunity for our employees, customers, and vendors,” said AC Controls President, Jim Borders.

AC Controls offers systems integration services, field technical services, and distribution of industrial controls, instrumentation, and valves. The company serves customers in the process and power industries in the southeast. This marks Kele’s sixth acquisition in the last six years.

About Kele, Inc. 
Kele, Inc. is a leading distributor of Commercial and Industrial Automation products and controls solutions globally. Kele serves the Commercial and Industrial Automation markets with more than 300 brands and 3+ million parts in stock, including actuators, gauges, relays, sensors, switches, transmitters, valves, and more. Value-added services include custom panel assembly, specialized sourcing, and technical support. Kele is a portfolio company of The Stephens Group, LLC of Little Rock, Ark. To learn more about Kele, visit kele.com.

About AC Controls 
AC Controls has been providing superior products and services for process and combustion applications since 1960. They offer process and combustion systems integration services, field technical services, and distribution of industrial controls, instrumentation, and valves to the process and power industries. They also offer a comprehensive suite of engineered solutions tailored to their customers’ needs through a wide range of services. Value-added services range from cutting-edge panel design, valve automation, and instrument configuration and calibration services to expert heat trace design and custom hardware solutions. Learn more about AC Controls at accontrols.com.

About The Stephens Group, LLC
The Stephens Group, LLC is a private investment firm that partners with talented management teams to help build valuable businesses. Backed by the resources of the Witt Stephens and Elizabeth Campbell families, the firm combines the operational expertise of a private equity firm with the flexibility provided by long-term capital. With over $2 billion of private equity assets under management, the firm has a long history of providing informed, sophisticated expertise and working with owners and managers to help them successfully achieve their strategic visions and build long-term value. Since 2006, The Stephens Group has invested in over 50 companies, targeting investments in industries across the U.S., including industrial and commercial products and services, specialty distribution, technology infrastructure, and vertical software.

Create Healthier IAQ in Schools with Federal Funding

Posted on by Kele Inc

In the world of HVAC and BAS, some aspects of the industry are seasonal rather than year-round. Because of this, you must stay up to date on deadlines for applications that directly impact funding and grants; because more than likely, they’ll directly impact you when you bid for projects this year and next year.

So what’s new on the horizon in the world of federal funding that may impact you in the not-so-distant future? We’re glad you asked!

New Funding is here!

As of January 11, 2024, the Biden-Harris administration announced the availability of up to $32M in grant funding to work on indoor air quality (IAQ) in schools. The EPA says that this funding opportunity “will protect children’s health by providing resources to organizations that help K-12 schools in low-income, disadvantaged, and Tribal communities develop and adopt comprehensive indoor air quality management plans to reduce indoor air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions in schools.” It looks like this year’s school bidding projects will be a mix of retrofits, regular maintenance jobs, and new IAQ projects.

What is covered under this funding?

It’s been reported that the EPA is anticipating the awarding of four to six grants, totaling anywhere from $5-$8 million, that will help to support five years of IAQ and energy efficiency activities. Some of the projects that will be worked on to better benefit schools will include IAQ projects, greenhouse gas reduction projects, training and educational campaigns, and research and demonstration projects. The EPA also stated that the “grants will be distributed on a competitive basis to states, territories, Indian Tribes, nonprofit organizations, and local governments and educational agencies.” (For more information visit the EPA website here.)

So what does that mean for me?

Well the EPA stated, “The deadline to apply for the competitive grants is March 19, 2024. We estimate that the grants will be awarded by fall 2024.” This means that instead of starting your seasonal school bids in the spring of 2025, you may want to be the early bird in this scenario. Stay up to date with who in your area has been awarded federal funding or grants and get that worm . . . well project—you know what we mean!

According to the EPA, “Grantees will assist schools in developing and implementing comprehensive IAQ management plans. . . Schools with IAQ management plans are better prepared to:

  • Conduct preventative maintenance to avoid costly IAQ issues before they start.
  • React quickly when IAQ issues do arise.
  • Build resiliency into facility maintenance by documenting operations to ensure staff can step up to fill roles when needed.
  • Identify opportunities for improving energy efficiency to save money and the environment.
  • Prioritize necessary infrastructure upgrades so that schools can justify capital costs and are ready to take advantage of federal, state, and local funding opportunities.”

Get ready to play the long game and leverage federal funding into new business opportunities that work for you! We’ll keep you updated as the EPA announces new milestones for this latest initiative.

In the meantime, if you need help with any upcoming bids—Kele’s got you covered. Source your BOM with us online or call today and let our experts help you out.

World of Valve Performance

Posted on by Kele Inc

Contributed by Bray, Inc.

Kele is thrilled to announce a new partnership with Bray that is helping us kick off 2024 with a bang! Their catalog offering is deep and so is their knowledge, which is why Kele now offers over 27k Bray products that we know you’ll love.

Here’s just one example of how knowledgeable and industry-focused they are. Happy learning!
(foreword by Kele)

SAFETY INSTRUMENTED SYSTEM VALVES (SIS) & AUTOMATED EMERGENCY BLOCK VALVES (EBV)

Safety Instrumented System Valves or EBV’s are used to isolate/vent a process stream when unsafe process conditions exist. Actions required can be to open or close based on the process. Due to the critical nature of these valves, frequent testing is needed to ensure proper function during an emergency.
The role of a valve test is to verify the appropriate movement will occur during an event. Since full travel of the valve will interrupt the day-to-day process, a partial stroke test (PST) can be done as an unobtrusive option. This test will ensure all moving components are in working order by stroking the valve a few degrees. The test can be performed in many ways ranging from mechanical to fully automated digital solutions.

Full Stroke Testing (FST) adds the capability of validating the whole stroke of the valve. This test can be done during a plant shutdown since it will interrupt the process.

TEST = OPTIONS ARE:

> Manually Operated Mechanical PST
> Digitally Automated PST
> Digitally Automated FST

FEATURES

Manually Operated PST Provides:
• High degree of assurance that a complete valve movement will occur on demand
• Verification that the valve torque is still below actuator operating torque
• Local visual confirmation

Digitally Automated PST Provides:
• Verification that the control signals are operating as designed
• Customizable alarm sensitivity
• Valve condition evaluation and comparison to original PST signature
• Compliance reporting

Digitally Automated FST Provides:
• 100% confirmation of valve travel and confirmation of valve sealing conformance
• Valve condition evaluation and comparison to original FST signature
• Reduction in human error

DETAILED OPERATION AND CUSTOMIZATION

1. MANUALLY OPERATED MECHANICAL

PST S98 PARTIAL STROKE MODULE
The Bray PST module is an all-mechanical device that can be added to the S98 scotch yoke actuator. This patented design can serve as a dual function of extended travel stop and partial stroke test.

HOW IT WORKS
With the hand lever set in free mode, the push rod is free to move through the device allowing a full range of travel. When the hand lever is activated the push rod travel is limited. This travel limit can be adjusted anywhere in the valve rotation profile.

APPLICATION
By manually limiting the rotation of the valve to a small degree of movement the solenoid can be used to activate a partial stroke test. This test can be done locally at the unit by a technician without the use of outside electronics.

2.   DIGITALLY AUTOMATED PST

 ELECTRONIC APPROACHES

PST can also be done digitally with the use of a smart positioner such as the Bray 6A. By using a digital approach variables such as stiction, speed, dwell time, and friction are measured. These

variables improve the quality of a partial stroke test and help in predicting valve faults earlier than mechanical solutions. This is done by comparing tested values against user/manufacturer-defined limits. A second advantage is in the data logging capabilities of the Bray 6A. By documenting every test, the Bray 6A provides plant managers with a record that all testing processes are being performed in accordance with safety standards.

FULL CONTROLLABILITY

The Bray 6A provides plant managers control over multiple variables in the PST. Variables such as start position, stroke length, and ramp rate can be adjusted to meet the needs of the plant.

INITIATING A TEST CAN BE DONE MULTIPLE WAYS.

1. Local or remote initiation with Binary input activation

The 6A smart positioner is equipped with 1 binary input slot as standard. This input can be used to activate the partial stroke test ether remotely with PLC/DCS or by ESD push button

2. Data management software communicating through HART protocol

Units that are equipped with HART or Profibus will have the capability of activating a PST or FST through software. With the use of asset management software, all Bray 6A positioners in a plant are given a unique ID name chosen by the user. Through this system, plant managers will have the ability to view all positioners and run PST/FST as needed with real-time data being presented in the control room. PST/FST settings can be adjusted for individual positioners or by valve type/size/features/application. Variables such as test frequency, stroke distance, and time can be adjusted to improve performance on the fly.

3. Adjustable Cyclic Test Interval at agreed threshold safe start point

The Bray 6A positioner can be programmed to automatically run a PST at designated time intervals. Activation of this mode can be done both locally to the unit or remotely through the PDM software. Time intervals are done in days allowing users to meet their minimum availability requirements for an automated safe start point.

 

EXAMPLE 6A CIRCUITS

PST WITH SOLENOID

 

PST NO SOLENOID

 

3. DIGITALLY AUTOMATED FST

When possible, a full stroke test can be done to validate a full stroke signature and ensure valve isolation or unseating capability. Like a PST the FST is logged in the Bray 6A memory. An example of a full stroke baseline test response can be seen in the chart below.

ALARM NOTIFICATIONS

The 6A positioner has the capability of outputting alarm codes based on measured values such as valve torque increase over time, valve movement time, and hours of operation. A 3-tiered scale can be used to indicate the severity of variable changes. The below images outline the visual display of each alarm level found on the Bray 6A screen.

For a networked unit, this alarm can be sent to a PLC or DCS through a protocol network or binary outputs. Further diagnostics can drill down to the specific alarm reason.

As an example, in the context of a PST, the tiered system can be applied to the time required to run the PST. The below table outlines the tired alarm program for a 3-second PST.

By giving users the ability to control the sensitivity and relevance of these alarm variables you can create a system that reduces false positives and provides the user with fully customized valve reliability testing.

Check out Bray products and solutions now at Kele!

 

New Search Filters

Posted on by Kele Inc

KELE SEARCH: REENGINEERED & READY!

Over 120 New Search Filters to Help You Shop

We’ve added over 120 new search filters on kele.com to help you source parts faster & easier! Click a few buttons to apply customizations and … presto!

Save time: Find parts faster.
Customized solutions: Tailor your search based on your job specifications.
Source from the job site: Refined searches are ideal for smaller screens meaning sourcing from your phone or tablet on the job site just got easier!

And … there’s more to come! Updates for our site continue to be built so we can best support your sourcing experience.

SEARCH NOW

New & Improved Product Detail Page

Posted on by Kele Inc

A whole new level of product info just for you.

Kele.com’s Product Detail Pages just got a major update and we’re here to give you the 411 on what’s been done!

Over 90 thousand product pages were updated to give you an even better sourcing experience. But what changed? Aspects like “brand”, “images”, “product specifications”, and more have been optimized to enhance your sourcing ability. This means that most parts have a detail-rich page to better inform YOU!

There’s not an aspect that our technical experts or product experts left untouched with this latest update. Better up-to-date information. Better product images. Better access to product-specific information. Better everything!

Explore the improved experience geared towards making your next time sourcing with us the best one yet! Start your search now here.

All Things BACnet

Posted on by Kele Inc

Building Automation and Control Networks.

BACnet.

An industry staple that continues to revolutionize both building automation and the world of HVAC. Is it any wonder that more and more suppliers and distributors are broadening their spheres to keep up with the demand from customers? And for good reason!

So how did BACnet get started?

During the summer of 1987, ASHRAE had an inaugural committee meeting* where the topic of conversation was focused on creating a standard open protocol for the building automation industry. The committee was comprised of three distinct working groups: Data Type and Attribute Working Group, Primitive Data Format Working Group, and Application Services Working Group. They all worked together to create a consensus regarding a standard for BACnet. And in 1995, they achieved their goal by creating ASHRAE/ANSI Standard 135.

As an important note—we of course can’t forget the “Father of BACnet” himself, Michael Newman, whose dedication and commitment to what BACnet could one day become truly helped it reach new heights.

But what really makes BACnet so great? Well, as ASHRAE puts it, “BACnet provides a comprehensive set of messages for conveying encoded binary, analog, and alphanumeric data between devices including, but not limited to:

(a) hardware binary input and output values,
(b) hardware analog input and output values,
(c) software binary and analog values,
(d) text string values,
(e) schedule information,
(f) alarm and event information,
(g) files, and
(h) control logic.

It models each building automation and control computer as a collection of data structures called objects, the properties of which represent various aspects of the hardware, software, and operation of the device. These objects provide a means of identifying and accessing information without requiring knowledge of the details of the device’s internal design or configuration.” (Read more about Standard 135-2016 here.)

Another interesting aspect of BACnet is that it’s not proprietary information. So because it’s an open protocol system, anyone can write it. It just needs to follow basic rules, commands, and of course industry standards. Talk about an easily accessible feat of technology that the industry is lucky to have!

BTL Certification

What is BACnet Testing Laboratories (BTL)? The entity was developed and is also operated by BACnet International. They support interoperability testing and compliance testing activities when it comes to all things BACnet, while also overseeing the global product certification program and administering the BTL Working Group (BTL-WG).

Some of the responsibilities of the BTL as defined by them are as follows:

  • Develop and maintain the BACnet product test requirements and testing policies
  • Operate the global BTL Certification Program for BACnet
  • Maintain a public listing of BTL Certified products
  • Recognize testing laboratories suitable for certification testing
  • Organize the annual BACnet International-sponsored Interoperability Workshop (PlugFest)

(Read more about BTL here.)

With BACnet being a leader in communication protocol for building automation and control networks, it’s allowed for an all-new era of communication and reporting for the world of HVAC and BAS. The industry continues to make leaps and bounds when it comes to this technology, and we cannot wait to see where it leads us next.

Our new, improved product detail pages now provide you with more in-depth information on our BACnet offering. Take a look at the following BACnet product detail pages to see what they can offer your customer’s building or facility:

Have a BAS or HVAC need? Kele can help! Call us today or chat with us on kele.com for custom solutions for your unique job specifications.

*To take a look at the original meeting notes from the inaugural committee meeting click here.