To improve the stability of plant operation we developed PLUG-IN Valstaff, an application supporting the maintenance of control valves, which occupy an important place in plant maintenance operations. PLUG-IN Valstaff makes use of the diagnostic functions of Azbil Corporation's new Smart Valve Positioner 700 series, enabling advance detection of the symptoms of deterioration and abnormality. In addition, an analysis service for diagnostic data allows users to plan an appropriate maintenance schedule and effectively reduce maintenance costs and maintenance time.
2. Technology for Real-Time Detection of Microbes in Water
Water is widely used in the production of cosmetics, foodstuffs, and pharmaceutical and other products as an ingredient, for washing, and for other purposes. The number of microbes in water used for such purposes must be kept below the level prescribed by a quality standard. Since existing testing methods require several days before results are obtained, there is a compelling need for technology that can detect microbes more rapidly. This article describes the development of equipment for real-time detection of microbes in water, and good results obtained in terms of detecting microbes and distinguishing them from particles.