Particle monitoring is an integral part of maintaining adequate cleanliness levels. Here’s a selection of the latest particle counting equipment available.

Compiled by Angela Godwin

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New line of remote particle counters
Adams Instruments announces the introduction of its new line of remote particle counters. The R-Series Remote Particle Counter can be integrated using either Ethernet (TCP/IP) or Serial Modbus RTU communications, and it can be powered over its Ethernet connection (Power-Over-Ethernet compliant with IEEE 802.3af) to simplify installation, or via a local power supply. The R-Series can be configured locally with a PC or via a Web browser and no dip switches or jumper settings are required for set-up. The instrument reports up to four particle sizes simultaneously, as well as other key information for Total Monitoring System Management™ such as laser current, laser accumulated on-time, background light level, date of last calibration, serial number and date of manufacture for easy warranty management. Calibration is performed digitally, allowing for consistency when managing a large number of instruments. With the optional Temp/RH sensor, users can avoid cabling and powering a separate sensor into a monitoring or building automation system. Each R-Series Remote Particle Counter also includes an alarm output, which allows users to alarm locally from the particle counter. Additional features include: compliance with JIS Standards; storage of up to 500 sample records; optional flow alarm; RoHS compliance; low outgassing and ionics; stainless-steel enclosure; flexible mounting options; use of external vacuum source; and a three-year limited warranty.

Adams Instruments
Boston, MA
www.adamsinstruments.com

Portable airborne particle counter

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The APC M3 from Biotest is a portable airborne particle counter that samples at a rate of 100 LPM (liters per minute). It is capable of measuring one cubic meter of air in only 10 minutes, thereby helping pharmaceutical manufacturers increase productivity and lower labor costs. The APC M3 can also be used with the company’s APCOne11 download utility software, which features secure electronic transfer of data to reduce operator error and meet FDA compliance for data protection. It also has an audit trail to log critical events, password protection features, and digital signature application for authentication of files.

Biotest
Denville, NJ
www.biotestUSA.com

Particle counters for controlled production environments

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For forty years, CLiMET has manufactured particle counters to validate and monitor airborne particles in controlled production environments. With seven patents in the field of particle count, CLiMET offers such products as: CI-150t, a portable, battery-operated, 0.3 micron at 1 CFM particle counter; CI-450t, a portable, battery-operated, 0.3 micron at 50 LPM particle counter (shown here); CI-750t, a portable, battery-operated, 0.3 micron at 75 LPM particle counter; CI-3100, with remote sensors with sensitivity of 0.5/5 micron at 1 CFM; the +RS series, with small remote sensors for house vacuum application; and the +OPT series, with medium-sized remote sensor with an internal vacuum pump. Now available with Ethernet Modbus.

CLiMET Instruments Company
Redlands, CA
www.climet.com

Portable APC with long laser life

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The Met One 3400 Series Portable Airborne Particle Counter from Hach Ultra features faster sampling, ease of use and reduced technician time. Available in two flow rates, 50 L/min or 28.3 L/min, and a sensitivity range of 0.3 to 25 microns, the 3400 offers flexibility for QA/QC and technical managers to verify critical processes and environments, including cleanrooms. The 3400 Series also contains Long Life Laser™ technology, extending the instrument’s average laser life to more than 10 years. Lightweight and compact, the 3400 features handles for easy lifting and it can relocate to various sampling sites for data collection throughout a facility. Both horizontal and vertical orientations of the instrument are possible, and dual hot-swappable batteries minimize downtime. The instrument’s stainless-steel construction and unobstructed surface facilitate quick and frequent wipe-downs. With PortAll Version 2 Life Sciences Version, the 3400 provides the necessary regulatory documentation for 21CFR Part 11 compliance.

Hach Ultra
Grants Pass, OR
www.hachultra.com

Air sampler calibration

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According to Good Laboratory Practices and Good Manufacturing Practices, the functionality of a microbiological air sampler should be evaluated regularly to ensure that it’s working according to the manufacturer’s specifications. The new Pyramid Flow Check from international pbi is an easy-to-use, battery-operated system for calibrating an air sampler. The instrument comprises two separate units: a fan and a flow meter. The Pyramid is positioned on the top of the sampler and the propeller produces an electric field that is proportional to the speed of the air. The system measures the electromagnetic field and calculates the airflow, which is displayed in liters per minute or cubic feet per minute. The unit is available with IQ/OQ documentation.

international pbi
Milan, Italy
www.internationalpbi.it

Synthetic paper for particle counters

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For nearly 15 years, Liberty Paper has been a custom converter of direct thermal recording papers made of a clean, synthetic, polypropylene substrate, which will not emit particulates into the clean environment. Custom sizes and packaging are available, and the company also has the capability to perforate and punch paper for specialty applications.

Liberty Paper Products LLC
Phoenix, AZ
[email protected]
(Rick Bellack, Sales Manager)

Remote particle counter

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The Lighthouse Remote Particle Counter 5104V, the latest release from Lighthouse Worldwide Solutions, meets the stringent requirements of today’s aseptic processing applications. It was designed to operate in CLASS 1 DIV 2 hazardous environments and uses a critical orifice and external vacuum source for flow control. Built-in flow monitoring assures accuracy and reliability of the sensor’s performance. With a sensitivity of 0.5 micron and a monitored flow rate of 1.0 CFM (28.3 LPM), the 5104V provides real-time continuous data collection and integrates seamlessly with large facility monitoring/management systems. It is capable of transferring up to 4 channels of simultaneous particle count data using RS-485 Modbus. Other features include: VHP compatibility; stainless-steel enclosure; small size; and a two-year warranty.

Lighthouse Worldwide Solutions
San Jose, CA
www.golighthouse.com

Portable particle counter

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The SOLAIR 1001+ from Lighthouse Worldwide Solutions is a portable particle counter with a sensitivity of 0.1 micron and a flow rate of 0.01 CFM (0.283 LPM). It features a wide dynamic range up to 20.0 microns. Utilizing a color, 5.7-inch (14.47 cm) touch-screen interface, the SOLAIR 1001+ is easy to configure and operate. It can store a large amount of particle count data from 8 channels and data from up to 4 environmental sensors (4-20 mA). All data can be downloaded to a computer or printed to its built-in thermal printer. It can be used as a portable instrument or integrated with a larger facility monitoring system.

Lighthouse Worldwide Solutions
San Jose, CA
www.golighthouse.com

Handheld particle counter

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The HandiLaz Mini from Particle Measuring Systems is an ergonomically designed, simple-to-use handheld that counts particles as small as 0.3 micron. Designed to be a cost-effective, quality handheld, this counter weighs only 1.5 pounds and features easy data transfer to Excel, making it accessible to all users. Particle measurements are made in seconds and up to 10,000 samples can be stored.

Particle Measuring Systems
Boulder, CO
www.pmeasuring.com

Particle instrument trade-in program

TSI offers a particle instrument trade-in program, available through the end of 2007. For select instruments, TSI offers a trade-in discount of up to 15 percent, credited toward the purchase of a new instrument, when you tender an equivalent older model in trade. The program is intended to replace older instruments that no longer represent the latest technology and have become increasingly expensive to maintain or impossible to repair due to the age of the instrument’s components. Qualifying instruments include: CPC Models 3020, 3022, 3022A, 3025, 3025A, 3760, 3760A, 3762, 3010, 7610 and 7620; APS Models 3300, 3310 and 3310A; Electrostatic Classifier Models 3071 and 3071A. These older models do not need to be operational to qualify for the trade-in.

TSI Particle Instruments
Shoreview, MN
http://particle.tsi.com

Compiled by Angela Godwin

UV irradiation for small systems
The new V-Ray™ FO system from Ultraviolet Devices, Inc. (UVDI) is designed to deliver an optimum level of UV for larger multi-row HVAC systems common to fan coils, ceiling-mount unit ventilators, rooftop units and heat pumps, effectively eliminating the need to clean hard-to-reach coil fins with costly or harmful chemicals while delivering continuous irradiation of the coil surfaces. The V-Ray FO features a universal voltage input for connection to voltage sources from 120 Vac to 277 Vac at 50 Hz or 60 Hz. Three lamp lengths are available: 21 inches, 33 inches, and 61 inches. The V-Ray FO is suitable anywhere small systems exhibit microbial problems and efficiency losses.

Ultraviolet Devices, Inc.
Valencia, CA
www.uvdi.com

Transparent conductive coatings

Agiltron Inc. now offers its transparent conductive coating service. This coating can be applied conformally to objects of nearly all shapes, sizes and materials, including plastics and glass. The nanocomposite paint features optical clarity, adhesion, and scratch resistance. Coated objects can be used at temperatures up to 230°C. NanoPaint™ coatings exhibit high visible transparency of >90 percent, have a refractive index of 1.6 and resist abrasion. Sheet resistance can be optimized for specific applications from 104 to 108 ohm/square. This coating technology has a broad range of applications, including electrostatic dissipation (ESD) and EMI shielding, and for optoelectronic devices.

Agiltron, Inc.
Woburn, MA
www.agiltron.com

Germicidal UVC lamp

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American Ultraviolet Company has introduced the Eliminator RPT™ AC Wall System to provide germicidal protection against organisms that could grow on the condensing coils in self-contained air conditioning wall units. It also purifies the outgoing air released through the blower system. The patent-pending RPT germicidal UVC lamp mounts directly to the outside of the air conditioning unit so that it does not interfere with any internal parts or motors. It lights after it is securely snapped into the lamp holder, confirming that the system is operational. The system is available for 120/240 volt operation at 50 Hz or 60 Hz.

American Ultraviolet Company
Lebanon, IN
www.americanultraviolet.com

Microscope enclosure

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The CO2 Microscope Cage Incubator from Okolabs is designed to maintain all the required environmental conditions for cell culture around the microscopy workstation. Temperature, CO2/air mixture, and humidity are precisely controlled, enabling prolonged observations of biological specimens. Enclosing the microscope protects it from changes in ambient temperature and minimizes thermal focus drift. A small thermocouple, inserted into a reference well near the sample, provides feedback control. Features include: windows on the front and side panels; quick-release hinges; and optional light-obscuring panels for fluorescence experiments. The systems are custom-designed to meet specific requirements.

Warner Instrument
Hamden, CT
www.warnerinstruments.com

Flow indicator

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Dwyer Instruments, Inc. has released its Series FIP Pulse Input Flow Indicator, a flow-rate/totalizer/batch controller suitable for almost any flow application involving a pulse signal. Features include: 7-segment LED display that provides up to 4.5 digits of rate display and 6 digits of total display; pulse input meter that accepts pulse, open collector, TTL or square wave inputs and provides the power to drive the sensor. Meters can be equipped with two relays and a 4-20 mA retransmission output for applications requiring more than display of rate or total. The relays can also be used for alarming based on the flow rate or for simple batch controlling based on the flow total. They can also be programmed for alternation, making them suitable for pump-control applications.

Dwyer Instruments, Inc.
Michigan City, IN
>www.dwyer-inst.com

Disposable air sampler head

The new Dispo Head from international pbi is a disposable aspirating head for microbiological air monitoring. Made from antistatic resin plastic, the disposable head is triple-packed, irradiated, and comes with certification of sterilization and conformity. It has a shelf life of five years and is suitable for any type of SAS Super air sampler that uses 55 mm diameter contact plates (RODAC).

international pbi
Milan, Italy
www.internationalpbi.it

Ultrasonic cleaner

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Tovatech LLC, a distributor for Elma GmbH, now offers the Elmasonic E ultrasonic cleaner, a new product line designed for cleaning metal, glass, electronics and plastic parts. It features digital sweep technology, which continuously shifts the frequency to ensure that cavitation occurs uniformly throughout the tank, providing evenly distributed cleaning power throughout the bath for both large and small loads. Ceramic heating elements assist the cleaning process. Temperature can be set between 30°C and 80°C, and the elements are dry-run proof. The cleaning period can be set from 5 to 30 minutes, or can be run continuously. The units have an automatic safety shut-off after 12 hours. Several models are available, with sizes from 1.75 to 28 liters. Accessories include: stainless-steel holder baskets with plastic-coated handles to minimize noise, a cooling coil to maintain a low bath temperature when needed, and various supports for flasks and beakers.

Tovatech LLC
South Orange, NJ
www.tovatech.com

Self-adhesive, disposable eyewear

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SharkLids EyeGear, Inc. now offers MEDshields® self-adhesive, disposable eyewear for medical personnel. Less than 0.25 mm thick and weighing less than 3 grams, the NFPA-compliant eyewear offers good protection and, according to the company, can improve caregiver compliance due to its convenience and ease of use. The optically clear, antifog, self-adhesive eye shields feature a medical-grade adhesive to adhere the eye shield directly to the user’s face. The hypoallergenic adhesive is strong enough to hold the eyewear in place, yet causes no discomfort when removed.

SharkLids EyeGear, Inc.
Woodstock, VT
www.sharklids.com

Ductless fume hood

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Purair 5 Ductless Fume Hoods from Air Science USA feature a high level of operator protection where routine work is being carried out. The ductless design eliminates installation costs and allows the unit to be positioned over a sink or benchtop apparatus. Three models are available, with 24-inch, 36-inch or 48-inch widths. The recirculating units operate at low noise levels and do not exhaust conditioned and/or heated air into the atmosphere. A face velocity of 100 fpm ensures containment of fumes and particulates for operator protection. An alarm alerts the operator when the airflow falls to an unacceptable level. An optional polypropylene spillage tray is also available. Lighting at the rear of the unit illuminates the work surface. All mechanisms in the head section are on the clean side of the filter, with the switches and electrical components isolated from contamination. The patented filter clamping mechanism allows for easy filter installation and ensures an even seal at the filter face to prevent bypass leakage. The main filter can be chosen from 14 different types of carbon, which include specialty media for vapors of organics, solvents, acids, mercury and formaldehyde. HEPA filters for particulate filtration are also available. The units exceed OSHA, ANSI and relevant international standards.

Air Science USA
Fort Myers, FL
www.air-science.com

Silicone bottle stoppers

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AdvantaPure has announced the availability of injection-molded silicone bottle stoppers for containers such as carboys, flexible storage systems, laboratory apparatus and bottles, and sampling and storage vessels. Manufactured in a cleanroom environment, they are biologically safe and suitable for pharmaceutical, biotech, biomedical, and laboratory environments. Produced using a silicone elastomer that meets Class VI and FDA standards and does not contain any animal ingredients, the stoppers provide long life expectancy and consistent performance. The smooth finish and gap-free surfaces ensure a true seal and a secured environment. The stoppers resist cracking, particle migration, chemical attack, and a wide range of temperatures (from -100°F/-73.3°C to +400°F/+204.4°C), and they are sterilizable by autoclave or gamma radiation. Custom options include cored holes for tubing inserts or vents.

AdvantaPure, a division of NewAge Industries
Southampton, PA
www.advantapure.com

Disposable nitrile gloves

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Disposable glove supplier Sempermed® has announced its SemperGuard™ Industrial Nitrile Powdered and Powder-Free Gloves. Made from a synthetic polymer exhibiting rubber-like characteristics, these gloves are an option for individuals who are sensitive or allergic to natural rubber latex. They are designed to provide the fit, feel, tensile and tear strengths and other properties of natural rubber latex gloves, without the protein allergens. The micro-rough-textured surface enhances tactile sensitivity, and electrostatic charges are dissipated. The gloves comply with FDA 21CFR guidelines, and agriculture and Agri-Foods Canada requirements, making them suitable for food, food processing, pharmaceutical and laboratory applications.

Sempermed USA, Inc.
Clearwater, FL
www.sempermedusa.com

Misting air shower

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Misting Air Showers from Atmos-Tech Industries offer the benefits of a traditional air shower, plus the added value of a misting system. The air shower cycle scrubs the occupant or equipment with high-velocity HEPA-filtered air, while the misting system fills the chamber with a fine water mist to further entrap any unwanted particles, dust and hazardous powders. The units are built to custom sizes and configurations with microprocessor control systems to optimize performance and adaptability to specific functions and customer needs.

Atmos-Tech Industries
Ocean, NJ
www.atmostech.com

Clear polyurethane hose

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The Flexaust Company offers a new line of rugged, wire-reinforced, clear polyurethane hose that is self-extinguishing and halogen-free for use in a wide range of ventilation, evacuation, ducting, and material-transfer applications. Flexaust FLX-Thane® SE is UL94V-0 listed, has a smooth interior for optimum airflow, and is reinforced with a coated spring steel-wire helix. Featuring excellent abrasion-, chemical-, cut- and puncture resistance, this self-extinguishing, halogen-free hose operates from -65°F to +225°F, is highly flexible and has a 4:1 compression ratio. The hose is manufactured using FDA-acceptable materials, and is available in 2-inch to 24-inch and 60 mm to 300 mm I.D. sizes, with a 0.030-inch wall, and comes standard in lengths of 25 and 50 feet.

The Flexaust Company, Inc.
Warsaw, IN
www.flexaust.com

Cleanroom oven

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The No. 836 is a 750°F, electrically-heated, Class 100 cleanroom oven from Grieve. The oven measures 36”W x 36”D x 39”H. A 1,000 CFM, 1.5 HP recirculating blower maintains horizontal airflow across the load, and 30 KW installed in Incoloy sheathed tubular heating elements provide the maximum temperature of 750°F. The oven features a Type 304, 2B finish stainless-steel interior with continuously backwelded seams, an exterior finished with white epoxy paint #4, brushed finish stainless-steel door face and control panel face. The oven has 6-inch insulated walls and an aluminized exterior. Additional equipment includes: a 30” x 24” x 6” thick stainless-steel, high-temperature HEPA recirculating air filter, digital programming temperature controller, manual-reset excess temperature controller with separate contactors, recirculating blower airflow safety switch, and a 10-inch-diameter circular chart recorder.

The Grieve Corporation
Round Lake, IL
www.grievecorp.com

Air sampler

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Coriolis® μ from Bertin Technologies is a new air sampler designed to capture airborne biological particles, such as bacteria, fungi and pollen. Its patented cyclonic technology delivers a liquid sample that is compatible with immunoassay, PCR, flow cytometry, and microbiological analyses, providing accurate and reliable results in only few hours. The air sampler is ideal for collecting a large panel of microorganisms (> 0.5 μm) even if the concentration in the air is very low, such as in a cleanroom. Parameters for air flow rate and collection time can be set to optimize collection. Sterile, single-use cones prevent cross-contamination. The air sampler is portable, small and lightweight, making it suitable for areas with limited accessibility and low clearance. Applications include air biocontamination monitoring in pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food industries; in hospitals; or near air-cooling towers.

Bertin Technologies
Montigny le Bretonneux, France
www.bertin.fr

Filter housing

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MKS Instruments, Inc. has introduced the Series 26 Single Round Filter Housing for a wide range of gas and liquid filtration applications in biopharmaceutical processes. Its modular design and highly polished surface finish provide for an easily configurable filtration solution that minimizes dead legs and hold-up volume, and has superior drainability and cleanability. The housings come with a variety of inlets, outlets, surface finishes and other component options, as well as custom designs that can best meet users’ process requirements. For applications demanding a more robust design, ASME-coded vessels are available with both “U” and “UM” certification.

MKS Instruments, Inc.
Wilmington, MA
www.mksinst.com

Broad-spectrum disinfectant

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Contec has introduced Accel TB, a patented colorless liquid cleaning and disinfecting solution made with accelerated hydrogen peroxide (AHP™). This intermediate-level disinfectant is EPA-registered, safe, and fast-acting, with a broad-spectrum kill. It’s ready to use and is compatible with a wide range of common materials, including 316 and 304 stainless steel, natural and silicone rubber, and most plastics. Accel TB is ideal for use on environmental surfaces in pharmaceutical cleanrooms, compounding pharmacies, labs and other GMP facilities where short contact time is beneficial.

Contec, Inc.
Spartanburg, SC
www.contecinc.com

Retrofit filter cartridges

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HemiPleat™ retrofit cartridges from Farr Air Pollution Control (APC) can be used to upgrade performance of, or solve problems with, existing dust collector systems. The patent-pending pleating technology opens up the pleats uniformly for more effective cleaning and better airflow to extend service life and reduce pressure drop. HemiPleat retrofit filters are available to fit virtually all leading brands of dust collectors that use cylindrical cartridges. The retrofit cartridges are made with HemiPleat PolyTech™ pulse-cleaned media, a silicone-treated polyester/cellulose blend that offers high moisture resistance and excellent filtration efficiency-99.99 percent on 0.5 micron particles and larger (MERV 11/12). Ultrahigh-efficiency PolyTech media (99.999 percent or MERV 15/16 efficiency) is also available for more demanding applications. Flame-retardant cartridges are available for increased fire risk applications, as well as carbon-impregnated cartridges for static dissipation.

Farr Air Pollution Control
Jonesboro, AK
www.farrapc.com

Prefilled swabs for cleaning wires, cables

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Puritan Medical Products has announced its new PurSwab® Popule swab, designed to easily clean fiber-optic wires and cables. The swab comes prefilled with 99 percent isopropyl alcohol. The user squeezes the handle between thumb and forefinger to release the fluid into the foam tip. Because the fluid is contained in the handle, problems such as dripping, spilled bottles and cross-contamination are eliminated. The swab features a split foam tip that can clean both sides of a cable simultaneously.

Puritan Medical Products Company
Guilford, ME
www.puritanmedproducts.com

Modular cleanroom walls

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Series 901 modular cleanroom walls from Clean Air Products are available in three standard designs, with custom sizes and shapes available to suit various application needs. They provide a versatile modular wall system designed for high-quality cleanroom performance with fast and easy installation. The walls are cleanroom and pharmacy compatible. The standard wall panel is constructed of white vinyl-covered steel, and can be formed with either a smooth or textured finish to the room side. Unpainted stainless steel finish, smooth or textured baked enamel, epoxy or conductive finishes are also available.

Clean Air Products
Minneapolis, MN
www.cleanairproducts.com

Filtration, containment system

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The ABSOLUT Cephir High Filtration/Containment System from Fette is equipped with a self-cleaning HEPA filter to remove and contain high volumes of even extremely fine dust particulate from the exhaust air of production machines. The unit has application in a variety of industries including pharmaceutical, industrial, chemical, nutrition and food. Cephir features a modular design for easy upgrades, parallel swing doors and a pull-out control cabinet for easy access, a bag-in/bag-out filter exchange and a compact size (40 x 30 x 90 inches). Other features include: pressure- and shock-resistant design; control interface MES/Scada system; filter cassette with leak-test gasket; blower with a variable frequency drive and air volume measuring control; and DOP measuring lances with ports inside the control cabinet. The unit is also available with wheels.

Fette America
Rockaway, NJ
www.fetteamerica.com

New Literature

Sound, vibration manual
NEBB has released the second edition of the Procedural Standards for Measurement of Sound and Vibration manual, which has been entirely rewritten and focuses on the measurement and reporting techniques for obtaining sound and vibration data that a NEBB contractor and other professionals in the heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) industry may need in the field. The manual stresses the practical aspects of measuring sound and vibration. It also contains supplementary material that provides additional benefits to the sound and vibration industry. It specifies minimum requirements for sound and vibration work, and contains sample specifications that can be customized by engineers and specifiers to meet project requirements. Options have been included that allow the use of additional instruments for obtaining sound and vibration measurements.

National Environmental Balancing Bureau
Gaithersburg, MD
www.nebb.org/nebbpublications.htm

Catalog for indoor monitoring apps

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The 2007 Indoor Monitoring product catalog from Onset Computer Corporation offers product descriptions, specifications, and prices for a full line of PC- and Mac-based HOBO® data loggers for indoor monitoring applications. A number of new hardware and software products are highlighted, including Onset’s new HOBO Energy Logger Pro for energy monitoring, and new alarm software that provides real-time notification of environmental conditions via e-mail, pager, and text messaging. To receive a copy of the catalog, visit the company’s Web site or call 1-800-LOGGERS.

Onset Computer Corporation
Bourne, MA
www.onsetcomp.com

Loss prevention resources

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The newly updated 2007 Property Loss Prevention Resource Catalog from FM Global contains loss prevention resources to help facility, plant and risk managers prevent fires, equipment breakdown and the damaging effects of Mother Nature. The full-color catalog offers a wide selection of property loss prevention publications, learning kits, videos, CD-ROMs and training courses to help manage property-related threats, prevent facility damage and minimize business interruption at an organization. Materials and resources also cover construction and maintenance, equipment hazards, facility and warehouse protection, as well as emergency planning. To order a free printed catalog, visit the company’s Web site.

FM Global
Johnston, RI
www.fmglobalcatalog.com
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Products for labs, cleanrooms

A 35-page, full-color catalog is now available from Kimberly-Clark Professional. The free catalog provides detailed information on the company’s products designed for laboratories, cleanrooms, and clean manufacturing environments. Products include wipers, gloves, protective apparel, and face protection. The catalog can be downloaded from the company’s Web site.

Kimberly-Clark Professional
Roswell, GA
www.kimtech.com
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Process-monitoring tools, services

A new product catalog from Millipore Corporation highlights tools and services to meet process-monitoring needs. The 92-page color catalog (CA1002EN00) includes products that test for liquid and airborne contaminants, including systems, media, methods, validation protocols and rapid detection tools for time-sensitive applications. For more information or to request a copy, visit the company’s Web site or call 1-800-MILLIPORE.

Millipore Corporation
Billerica, MA
www.millipore.com/bioprocess

Recall — Firm Press Release

FDA posts press releases and other notices of recalls and market withdrawals from the firms involved as a service to consumers, the media, and other interested parties. FDA does not endorse either the product or the company.

Contact: John Geoghagan 770-754-0707

February 22, 2007 — /FDA News/ — FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — Alpharetta, GA — Americas Kitchen of Alpharetta, GA, is recalling its 32-ounce packages of “Wellsley Farms” Green Bean Casserole sold from September 1, 2006 through February 22, 2007 because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause illness, mild, moderate or even severe. Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, Listeria infection can cause more serious illness in young children, frail or elderly people and may even cause miscarriages or stillbirths. No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this product.

The recalled “Wellsley Farms” Green Bean Casserole was distributed nationwide in BJ’s Wholesale Club retail stores. The product comes in a 32-ounce, clear plastic package marked with SKU # 19866._The potential for contamination was noted after routine testing revealed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes in a 32-ounce package of “Wellsley Farms” Green Bean Casserole.

The production of the product has been suspended while the problem is being investigated.

Consumers who have purchased 32-ounce packages of “Wellsley Farms” Green Bean Casserole marked SKU # 19866 are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund.

Consumers with questions may contact the company at 1-770-754-0707 ext.1235.

Recall — Firm Press Release

FDA posts press releases and other notices of recalls and market withdrawals from the firms involved as a service to consumers, the media, and other interested parties. FDA does not endorse either the product or the company.

Contact: Steven Reynolds 818-317-8415

February 23, 2007 — /FDA News/ — Los Angeles, CA — Castle Produce, a subsidiary of Tropical Produce, Inc., a wholesale importer of fresh fruit and vegetables announced the recall of cantaloupes in California due to potential health concerns. Some cantaloupes delivered on or after 2/16/2007 have tested positive for Salmonella, although no illnesses have been reported.

Persons infected with Salmonella may experience a variety of symptoms and illnesses. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in more severe illnesses and potentially can be fatal.

Approximately 2,560 cartons of cantaloupes were distributed to wholesalers in Los Angeles and San Francisco for distribution in the Western United States. The cantaloupes have a light green color skin on the exterior, with orange flesh. The cantaloupes were distributed for sale in bulk in cardboard cartons, with 9, 12 or 15 cantaloupes to a carton. The recalled cartons are natural brown cardboard with “Tropifresh de Costa Rica” in green and orange lettering. They have a thirteen-digit number on a white tag pasted to the carton; the tenth digit is a 2 or a 3.

The recall is a result of a US FDA test with a positive detection of Salmonella bacteria. Consumers who have uneaten cantaloupe purchased in the Western United States, on or after February 16, 2007, may contact their retail store to see if the product is the recalled brand.

February 26, 2007 — /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — LEHIGH VALLEY, Pa. — Air Products (NYSE:APD) and international investment and advisory firm Babcock & Brown today jointly announced the signing of an equipment refurbishment and remarketing agreement. Under the terms of the agreement, semiconductor equipment owned by or consigned to Babcock & Brown’s U.S. based subsidiary Babcock & Brown Electronics Management (BBEM) will be refurbished by Air Products at its state of the art clean room and refurbishment facility in Chandler, Arizona. The repair and refurbishment will be performed prior to resale, and will result in high-quality used equipment that meets customers’ exacting requirements for reliability and refurbishment to the most recent configuration possible. In many cases, tool refurbishment will be performed with the involvement of the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) in line with the business practices of both Air Products and Babcock & Brown.

Mike Herman, a senior executive with BBEM stated, “The agreement between Air Products and Babcock & Brown will result in the availability to the semiconductor industry of very high-quality used and refurbished equipment. This will in turn minimize the risk to customers in acquiring used equipment. The combined resources of Air Products and BBEM further strengthen the BBEM strategy of becoming a global supplier of semiconductor capital equipment and of maximizing cost efficiency and ROI at all stages of equipment life.

“Air Products’ legacy tool service business and our experience in refurbishing, repairing, decommissioning and relocating tools makes this new venture a natural fit,” said Corning Painter, vice president, Electronics, at Air Products. “We service more than 1,000 tools worldwide and will use that experience to provide the highest quality and most reliable refurbished equipment.”

About Air Products
Air Products (NYSE:APD) serves customers in industrial, energy, technology and healthcare markets worldwide with a unique portfolio of atmospheric gases, process and specialty gases, performance materials, and equipment and services. Founded in 1940, Air Products has built leading positions in key growth markets such as semiconductor materials, refinery hydrogen, home healthcare services, natural gas liquefaction, and advanced coatings and adhesives. The company is recognized for its innovative culture, operational excellence and commitment to safety and the environment and is listed in the Dow Jones Sustainability and FTSE4Good Indices. The company has annual revenues of $9 billion, operations in over 40 countries, and over 20,000 employees around the globe. For more information, visit www.airproducts.com.

About Babcock & Brown
Babcock & Brown is a global investment and advisory firm with longstanding capabilities in structured finance and the creation, syndication and management of asset and cash flow-based investments. Babcock & Brown was founded in 1977 and is listed on the Australian Stock Exchange. Babcock & Brown operates from 23 offices across Australia, North America, Europe, Asia, United Arab Emirates and Africa and has in excess of 810 employees worldwide. Babcock & Brown has five operating divisions including real estate, infrastructure and project finance, operating leasing, structured finance and corporate finance. The company has established a funds management platform across the operating divisions that has resulted in the creation of a number of focused investment vehicles in areas including real estate, renewable energy and infrastructure. For further information about Babcock & Brown please see: www.babcockbrown.com.

About Babcock & Brown Electronics Management (BBEM)
The Electronics Management division of Babcock & Brown offers to semiconductor manufacturers innovative financial products that ease up-front capital cost and commercially manage equipment from fab acceptance to end of life. Certain BBEM products guarantee a future value for semiconductor equipment regardless of the application, and provide fiscal certainty in the rapidly changing world of semiconductor manufacturing. For individual tools or whole fabs, BBEM products ensure maximum cost efficiency and maximum ROI at all stages of equipment life. BBEM offers to semiconductor manufacturers financial products and equipment that enable access to critical technology at minimum financial risk.
***NOTE: This release may contain forward-looking statements. Actual results could vary materially, due to changes in current expectations.

Source: Air Products
CONTACT: Media Inquiries: Robert Brown of Air Products, +1-610-481-1192,_or [email protected]; or John Cossins of BBEM, +1-480-893-4545, [email protected]; or Investor Inquiries: Nelson Squires of Air_Products, +1-610-481-7461, e-mail: [email protected]

Web site: http://www.airproducts.com/ _http://www.babcockbrown.com/

February 22, 2007 — /IEST/ — ROLLING MEADOWS, IL — The Institute of Environmental Sciences and Technology (IEST) announces ESTECH 2007, its 53rd annual technical meeting and exposition, will be held April 29-May 2, 2007 at the Indian Lakes Resort in Bloomingdale, Illinois (northwest suburban Chicago). The meeting will include tutorials, seminars, and working group meetings, as well as practical solutions in the state-of-the-art displays in the exhibition. Attendees can gain or improve job performance through certificates in coursework, find practical solutions through presentations on recent research, and discover products and services to increase efficiency.

Golfers can tee up with their colleagues, friends, and clients in this great networking opportunity at a golf outing on Sunday, April 29 at 1:00 p.m. Prizes will be awarded during the Presidential Welcome Reception.

A number of new tutorial certificate programs will be offered this year. For contamination control, a certificate in sterilization and one in consumables will be offered. For design, test, and evaluation/product reliability professionals, a new certificate program on advanced environmental testing will be given. Also new this year, tutorials on design characterization and critical cleaning challenges for high-value industrial applications.

This year, a special seminar presentation will be offered to contamination control professionals. USP 797: Compounding Sterile Pharmaceuticals will be presented by CleanRooms magazine and members of the 797 committee. This seminar and panel discussion will provide the latest information on these areas of contamination control implementation. Also new this year will be a seminar on risk assessment and disaster recovery. Design, test, and evaluation/product reliability professionals will have the opportunity to learn about chemical and biological defense in a new seminar. A special seminar on MIL-STD-810G and Wind Tunnel Tests will also be presented.

For more information, log on to www.iest.org or contact IEST at (847) 255-1561. Registration and the ESTECH 2007 online advance program are now available at http://www.iest.org/estech/estech.htm.

Founded in 1953, IEST is an international technical society of engineers, scientists, and educators that serves its members and the industries they represent (simulating, testing, controlling, and teaching the environments of earth and space) through education and the development of recommended practices and standards.

IEST is an ANSI-accredited standards-developing organization; Secretariat of ISO/TC 209 Cleanrooms and associated controlled environments; Administrator of the ANSI-accredited US TAG to ISO/TC 209; Administrator of the ANSI-accredited US TAG to ISO/TC 142 Cleaning equipment for air and other gases; and a founding member of the ANSI-accredited US TAG to ISO/TC 229 Nanotechnologies.