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The latest iCountPD particle detection technology, developed and manufactured by Parker Hannifin, the global leader in motion and control technologies, is being trialled by the RAF as part of an ongoing programme to enhance the quality and safety of its aviation fuels. Fitted to refuelling vehicles, the ICountPD detection units provide an immediate indication if fuel quality falls below a set threshold, helping to identify contamination caused by particles or moisture, and improving productivity while potentially reducing operating costs.
The RAF has initially fitted several ICountPD units for evaluation and these are mounted on the outlets of the Monitor filter housings on each refuelling vehicle, with the Monitor filters being used to remove contamination from the fuel as it is pumped into each aircraft. An integrated probe device is used to extract a sample from the flow of fuel; the sample is then automatically fed through the particle counter for analysis before being returned to the fuel dispenser slop tank.
Each iCountPD unit features innovative laser diode optical detection technology to produce fast, accurate and repeatable results, with the ability to detect dispersed particle contamination down to extremely low levels. This method of detection and associated calibration confirms to a wide variety of internationally recognised standards for aviation fuels.
Perhaps as importantly, the system provides crucial monitoring of the condition of the fuel immediately downstream of the filters. These use super absorbent polymer media in each Monitor element and although these offer high levels of efficiency can be prone to rapid degradation or failure. Any change in operating conditions can therefore easily be detected by the iCountPD units, as these provide a constant indication of fuel condition while it is being pumped.
Each unit incorporates front panel mounted LEDs to show operating status and alarm conditions for both particles and moisture content, and is also connected to a data logger so that contamination levels over time can be monitored, allowing RAF technicians to plan maintenance schedules for the refuelling equipment.
iCountPD units are small, robust and lightweight, and were simple for the RAF to install without the need for extensive modifications to each refuelling vehicle. Additionally, they have eliminated previous methods of using subject gravimetric tests and are far less expensive than traditional light scattering devices.
The iCountPD units are rated to IP66 and have a range of output options, which make it easy to interface with mobile equipment. These options include RS232 and CANBUS connectivity, 4-20mA and 0-5V analogue outputs, and relay contacts which can switch 5A at up to 24V DC.
Note to Editors:
With annual sales exceeding $10 billion, Parker Hannifin is the world's leading diversified manufacturer of motion and control technologies and systems, providing precision-engineered solutions for a wide variety of mobile, industrial and aerospace markets. The company employs approximately 52,000 people in 48 countries around the world. Parker has increased its annual dividends paid to shareholders for 53 consecutive years, among the top five longest-running dividend-increase records in the S&P 500 index. For more information, visit the company's web site at http://www.parker.com, or its investor information site at http www.phstock.com.
Please send all sales enquiries to:
Parker Hannifin Ltd, European Product Information Centre, Parker House, 55 Maylands Avenue, Hemel Hempstead, Herts, HP2 4SJ. Tel: 00800 27 27 5374.
email: epic@parker.com
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