Automated machines have been operating for decades now, which makes maintenance a critical piece of the puzzle. These automated machines break down or need service attention just like any other, and inevitably, maintenance technicians will need to search out replacement parts to keep the equipment up and running.  This is not as simple a concept as it may seem on the surface.  Often, they run into challenges. Perhaps the part they are looking for is discontinued. Or maybe it’s unavailable at the time. Or maybe there is a shipping issue, and they can’t receive it for an extended period of time.  As we all know, there is always a possibility that a shipping crisis rears its ugly head.  In these situations, decision makers will look for alternative components from a different manufacturer.  This may sound good in theory, but there are nuances to this exercise that must be examined.  In our world, we call this “doing a crossover.”

Successful crossovers are most common when there is clear and open communication between the supplier and the customer.  After all, there are usually several interested parties on the customer side, and they all have their own priorities. There are machine builders and machine users and they each have their own requirements and goals.  

Machine builders start with a desired goal for the machine.  These are activities like loading pills in a bottle or maintaining a level in a tank.  When the machines are designed, products are selected to meet the goal of that machine.  

However, the machine user typically has other challenges they are trying to overcome.  They have the added pressure of getting a broken machine up and running.  They may not have the inside knowledge that the machine designer does, they may just know the part number.  

Finally, there is the supplier to consider. This person may receive a call for a quote to a certain part number “or its equivalent.”  Without context, trouble could ensue.  Who is making the request?  Does the requestor have the authority to substitute parts?  Many times, the requestor doesn’t have all the information needed to make such a substitution successfully.  

It's a complex process, and what’s most important is that for a crossover to be successful, more information is better than less.  That way all interested parties are informed and we can be sure, and everyone’s needs are being met.

We did a more in-depth discussion on this topic in Control Design Magazine last year.  I encourage you to take a look, and feel free to reach out with any questions you may have.

Need help selecting the right replacement parts?  Speak to one of our technical specialists today at (855) 737-4716 or fill out our online form and one of them will contact you.

The EI specification for filter monitors has been retracted and is no longer available or applicable to the industry as of December 31, 2020.  Phase out of EI 1583 SAP filter monitors has been mandated by the industry regulators. Parker's drop in solution for new and existing monitor vessels, CDFX™. guarantees removal of water and dirt from fuel without requiring any additional sensing equipment. By removing the water rather than simply detecting it, you can ensure that clean dry fuel is delivered every time, avoiding costly downtime, potential flight delays and/or removal of contaminated fuel from your aircraft.

All of Parker's products are fully certified, making switching easy and cost effective.

What to Consider for Phase-Out Solutions (FWS, DDF/EWS or WBF)

• What is the tolerance for risks? Is water removal important at the aircraft wing?
• Dirt defense filters do not remove water.
• Sensors alarm, then what? Procedure? Who makes the “all good” call after an alarm?
• What is the expense of a fueling shutdown? Refueling truck, Hydrant services or Hydrant system?
• How robust is the sensor under adverse conditions? Can it fail prior to annual certification?
• Managing sensor calibrations. Spare certified sensors. Sensor life expectancy.
• FWS can be disarmed, does not protect against water slug, not a drop-in solution!
• Often custom FWS that are larger/heavier vessels that required extensive labor and hot work.
• Capital costs, Equipment installation, Vehicle design limitations, Meter compatibility, Electronics, etc.
• = Costly Downtime…
   

FWS: Filter Water Separators
DDF/EWS: Dirt Defense and Electronic Sensors
WBF: Water Barrier Filters

Parker Velcon Water Barrier Technology is approved to the EI 1588 Test Specification

• Removal of SAP Testing
• Water Slug Testing
• Emulsified Water Testing
• Solids Testing
• Compatibility Testing
• Structural Testing

Learn more about Parker Velcon’s CDFX™ Series SAP Free Water Barrier Filters for Aviation Fuel.

For more information or a detailed discussion about your specific requirements please contact one of Valin's technical specialists at (855) 737-4717 or fill out our online form here and someone will contact you.

ReeR Safety offers an innovative solution for safeguarding operations in challenging industrial conditions with their watertight enclosures for safety light curtains. These enclosures are specifically designed to protect light curtains in environments that demand high durability and resistance to water, steam, and other harsh elements, ensuring uncompromised safety and performance in industries like food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and heavy manufacturing. 

Features and Benefits:

1. IP69K Rated: Designed for EOS2 and EOS4 models, these compact cylindrical enclosures are tested to withstand water pressures up to 80 bar and temperatures up to +80°C.
2. ECOLAB® Certified: Constructed with inert, non-toxic materials, these enclosures are specifically designed to withstand rigorous cleaning procedures required in the food and beverage industry.
3. WTHF Version: This specialized heated enclosure features a thermostatically controlled heating system, allowing it to operate in temperatures as low as -25°C while retaining its IP69K protection rating. 

Talk to one of our experts today at (855) 737-4716, or fill out our online form to learn more.