View the world’s first miniature NMR spectrometer―affordable, portable, and easy to use

March 3, 2011
picoSpin™ Benchtop NMR Spectrometer from Cole-Parmer

picoSpin™ Benchtop NMR Spectrometer from Cole-Parmer

Introducing the picoSpin Benchtop NMR Spectrometer from Cole-Parmer―a true breakthrough in chemical instrumentation! Researchers and educators now have access to a revolutionary benchtop NMR spectrometer.

The 45-MHz picoSpin spectrometer resolves proton chemical shifts with a resolution of 100 parts per billion using a very small sample volume of less than 20 microliters. Liquid samples are simply injected into an internal capillary via front-panel fittings.

 “We have engineered an innovative and disruptive technology that changes the NMR spectroscopy landscape. With its low price, compact footprint and true spectroscopic capability, the picoSpin-45 spectrometer enables applications that could not be considered in the past,” said John Price, Ph.D., president and chief scientist of picoSpin, LLC.

The picoSpin-45 NMR Spectrometer is a finalist in the Science & Medical – Diagnostic Aids category, one of twelve categories honored by the Edison Awards.

The complete liquid-phase proton NMR system includes permanent magnet, transmitter, receiver, data acquisition, programmable pulse sequencer, Ethernet interface, and intuitive web-based control software.


Introducing the NEW Masterflex® L/S® Precision Variable-Speed Console Drive―at an Economical Price

February 24, 2011

All new! The Masterflex® L/S® Precision Variable-Speed Console Drive features a digital display that ensures accuracy and repeatability in fluid metering applications. This new model will be displayed at the Cole-Parmer® booth at PITTCON, March 13–March 18.

The drive offers precise speed control and digital display of rpm to confirm speed setting at a glance. A reversible motor enables users to purge tubing before or after pumping; LED indicators confirm motor direction. Users achieve flow rates of 0.6 to 3400 mL/min with Masterflex L/S pump tubing. A powerful motor will drive two or four pump heads for increased flow rates and for multichannel applications. The membrane keypad offers easy up-front control of speed, direction, and start/stop. Drives also offer remote control capability via 4 to 20 mA or 0 to 10 V input signal.


Thermography and Emissivity

February 17, 2011

Emissivity:

Emissivity is a term representing a material’s ability to emit thermal radiation. Each material has a different emissivity.  A material’s emissivity can range from a theoretical 0.00 (completely not-emitting) to an equally-theoretical 1.00 (completely emitting); the emissivity often varies with temperature.  Silver is an example of a substance with low emissivity (emissivity coefficient of .02), whereas asphalt has a high emissivity coefficient of 0.98. 

To take a temperature measurement of an object, the thermographer will refer to the emissivity table to choose the emissivity value of the object, which is then entered into the camera. The camera’s algorithm will correct the temperature by using the emissivity to calculate a temperature that more closely matches the actual contact temperature of the object.

Advantages of thermography

Flir i3 Entry Level Thermal Imager

Flir i3 Entry Level Thermal Imager

  • It shows a visual picture so temperatures over a large area can be compared
  • It is capable of catching moving targets in real time
  • It is able to find deteriorating, i.e., higher temperature components prior to their failure
  • It can be used to measure or observe in areas inaccessible or hazardous for other methods
  • It is a non-destructive test method
  • It can be used to find defects in shafts, pipes, and other metal or plastic parts[
  • It can be used to detect objects in dark areas

Applications

  • Condition monitoring
  • Digital infrared thermal imaging in health care
  • Medical imaging
  • Infrared mammography
  • Thermology
  • Veterinary Thermal Imaging
  • Night vision
  • Research
  • Process control
  • Nondestructive testing
  • Surveillance in security, law enforcement and defence
  • Chemical imaging
  • Volcanology
  • Building

 

 

Thermal imagers are ideal for use in applications where a visual indication of temperature variation may be helpful, such as troubleshooting electrical systems and machinery or doing a home energy audit. Thermal imaging is a non-contact technology that measures infrared wavelengths to determine temperatures from a safe distance. A thermal imager displays an image using different colors to represent different temperatures. Extech and Flir thermal imagers are fully radiometric which means they measure and store temperatures at every point in the image.The data can then be analyzed. With the highest accuracy for this class of thermal imagers at 2%, these imagers are perfect for identifying hot spots or a rise in temperature which often indicates that a problem exists or a failure could be imminent.

Cole-Parmer offers a wide assortment of thermal imaging cameras with a variety of features depending on your particular application or budget.


Thermography is a HOT Topic!

February 10, 2011

Although Infrared thermography, or thermal imaging use has increased recently within commercial and industrial applications, it has a long history beginning in the 1800s when Sir William Herschel discovered infrared.

Flir i3 Entry Level Thermal Imagers

Flir i3 Entry Level Thermal Imagers

Timeline:

  • Astronomer Sir William Herschel discovered infrared in 1800
  • 1950-1960 Single Element Detectors (Line Images)
  • 1970 Philips and English Electronic Valve (EEV) developed Pryo-Electric tube. First Naval Thermal Imager used by the Royal Navy for shipboard firefighting.
  • 1978 Raytheon patented ferroelectric infrared detectors using on Barium Strontium Titanate (BST)
  • Late 1980’s Microbolometer technology developed.

How it works:

Thermal imaging cameras convert the energy in the infrared wavelength (9,000 to 14,000 nanometers) into a visible light display, making it possible to view the environment without visible illumination. The thermal imaging camera performs a series of mathematical algorithms and builds a visible picture, usually in a JPG format. The image shows the viewer an approximation of the temperature at which the object is operating rather than detecting the actual temperature.

All objects above absolute zero emit thermal infrared energy, so thermal cameras can passively see all objects, regardless of ambient light. However, most thermal cameras only see objects warmer than -50°C.  The amount of radiation emitted by an object increases with temperature; therefore, thermography allows one to see variations in temperature.

If the object is radiating at a higher temperature than its surroundings, then power transfer will be taking place and power will be radiating from warm to cold following the principle stated in the Second Law of Thermodynamics. So if there is a cool area in the thermogram, that object will be absorbing the radiation emitted by the warm object. The ability of both objects to emit or absorb this radiation is called emissivity.

Thermal imagers are ideal for use in applications where a visual indication of temperature variation may be helpful, such as troubleshooting electrical systems and machinery or doing a home energy audit. Thermal imaging is a non-contact technology that measures infrared wavelengths to determine temperatures from a safe distance. A thermal imager displays an image using different colors to represent different temperatures. Extech and Flir thermal imagers are fully radiometric which means they measure and store temperatures at every point in the image.The data can then be analyzed. With the highest accuracy for this class of thermal imagers at 2%, these imagers are perfect for identifying hot spots or a rise in temperature which often indicates that a problem exists or a failure could be imminent.

Cole-Parmer offers a wide assortment of thermal imaging cameras with a variety of features depending on your particular application or budget.

To be continued…


Easy-to-Use and Compact: Shimadzu UV/Visible Scanning Spectrophotometers

January 27, 2011

Shimadzu UV/Visible Scanning SpectrophotometerReduce the time it takes to get up to speed and receive results! The Shimadzu UV/Visible Scanning Spectrophotometers feature large displays to quickly read graphical results as well as screen prompts to easily guide users. They offer full-range scanning in an overall smaller size. Scan over a range of 190 to 1100 nm.

Shimadzu UV/Visible Scanning Spectrophotometers are available in several models. The UV mini-1240 offers functionality from simple concentration measurements to sophisticated quantitative calibration curves. The BioSpec-mini is preprogrammed for nucleic acid quantitation and protein assays and analysis. The UV-1800 supplies data input/output and PC control via USB connectivity.

Optional accessories for the UV mini-1240 model include DNA/Protein Program Pack Software, Multiwavelength Program Pack Software, Kinetics Program Pack Software, UV Data Manager Software, and Thermal Printer Kit.


“Baby, it’s Cold Outside”

December 23, 2010

If you live in the Eastern or Midwestern United States, there’s no need to guess how cold it is outside this winter ―the new H-B Instrument Enviro-Safe® Nonhazardous Glass Thermometers available from Cole-Parmer will confirm that. 

H-B Instrument Enviro-Safe® Thermometer

H-B Instrument Enviro-Safe® Thermometer

Cole-Parmer is proud to present these new Earth-friendly “green” thermometers certified as 100% nontoxic, nonhazardous, and biodegradable.  These accurate and safe thermometers offer the same accuracy as mercury thermometers without the hazards.  They are ideal for use in laboratories, universities, food/beverage, environmental, wastewater, and many other general-purpose applications where the presence of mercury or other hazardous liquids is not desired. 

 All Enviro-Safe glass thermometers contain an environmentally friendly non-mercury liquid that is 100% certified as nontoxic, nonhazardous, and fully biodegradable. In case of breakage, the liquid can be cleaned up easily with soap and water.  These thermometers also have recyclable packaging, an antiroll fitting, individual serial numbers, and a statement of accuracy.

So, what’s so bad about mercury thermometers, anyway?

Mercury thermometers are harmful to both the environment and your personal health.  In fact, Mercury is toxic to humans and wildlife.  If a mercury thermometer breaks and is not properly disposed of, tiny droplets of mercury can evaporate within the environment over time.  When mercury vapor enters the bloodstream through inhalation, brain damage, spinal cord, kidney, and liver damage may occur in time.

Additionally, improperly disposing of mercury from thermometers can contaminate lakes and streams.  Mercury may accumulate in the bodies of fish and other wildlife and, through natural processes, converts this mercury into methyl mercury, which is harmful to humans when consumed.


A Message of Thanks (and Special Offer)

November 24, 2010

As the United States celebrates the Thanksgiving holiday, Cole-Parmer wishes to thank you, our customers, for your business and support throughout the year. In this challenging economic climate, we are grateful for each and every order you place. We look forward to continuing to serve you with excellence―from providing unique products to exceptional service to technical support.

Thermo Scientific MaxQ™ and Forma ShakerIn a spirit of gratitude, we extend a special promotion to you. Order a qualifying Thermo Scientific MaxQ™ or Forma Shaker from Cole-Parmer and receive 10% off the suggested list price! Plus, we’ll give you a Shake Weight® absolutely free. This offer is good through December 31, 2010.


X-ray Day 115 Years Later: Measuring Alpha, Beta, Gamma, and X-ray Radiation

November 11, 2010
Radiation Alert Analog Detectors

Radiation Alert Analog Detectors

Did you know Monday, November 8, was X-ray Day? The X-ray was discovered in 1895, purely by accident. Wilhelm Röntgen, a German physicist, was experimenting with electron beams on a gas discharge tube. When the electron beam was on, a nearby fluorescent screen started to glow. Thus began the journey of a technology that is used in medical imaging, dentistry, astronomy, research, and even laser bursts.

Because X-rays pass through muscles and other soft tissue and stop at dense materials, doctors can identify broken bones and cancers growing in the body. Electromagnetic radiation is also used in communication systems and in neutron activation analysis, allowing the identification of elements in a material.

While radiation provides many benefits to the scientific world, high levels of radiation in the environment and in food handling can be hazardous.  Cole-Parmer offers Radiation Alert Analog Detectors to monitor radiation. These general-purpose detectors are available with uncompensated halogen-quenched sensors for measuring alpha, beta, gamma, and X-ray radiation; select meters have energy-compensated sensors for increased sensitivity to gamma and X-ray radiation.

All models are factory-calibrated to pulse generator and can be calibrated to ANSI standards by any certified lab. Anti-saturation circuit is good to at least 100 times the maximum reading in the highest range. No special probes are required.


Metal-free? New System Detects Contamination in Bulk Flow Tablets or Capsules

November 4, 2010

Thermo Scientific APEX 500 Rx Pharmaceutical Metal Detection System Meet the new Thermo Scientific APEX 500 Rx Pharmaceutical Metal Detection System from Cole-Parmer. This high-performance system is designed to respond to the exacting demands of the pharmaceutical industry. When installed on the output of a tablet press, deduster, or capsule filler, this system ensures that even small slivers of metal are detected, providing the highest sensitivity possible at high flow rates, while also preventing product damage.

It features a patented multicoil design that consistently delivers industry-leading sensitivity and stability, but is not impacted by product effects or environmental changes. Manufactured to meet the U.S. Federal Drug Administration’s (FDA) stringent requirements for validated production, this system uses only FDA-compliant materials in all areas that come in contact with the product.

As a completely mobile and adjustable system, the APEX 500 Rx disassembles fast for cleaning. The intuitive icon-driven interface makes it easy to set up and program and also includes multilingual help text. The detector incorporates a Total Quality Solution (TQS) package featuring the patented Thermo Scientific AuditCheck that continuously monitors and validates the system’s performance to help eliminate costly recalls and quarantines.


Watch for the Latest Preview: Cole-Parmer Releases 2011/2012 Catalog Preview

October 21, 2010

2011/2012 Catalog Preview from Cole-ParmerThe 2011/2012 Catalog Preview from Cole-Parmer is brimming with new products―2,500 in all. Find the latest in temperature, pumps (including Masterflex®), filtration, lab consumables, water quality, mixers, and more in this 144-page preview of the Cole-Parmer General Catalog.

Add efficiency with a number of new items including the Compact Mini-Plate Centrifuge to quickly improve PCR yield, the Thermal Noninvasive Low-Flow Flowmeter, which offers nano- and micro-flow measurements, and Colder AseptiquikTM Connectors, which provide easy, secure sterile connections. Additionally, the IKA® Calorimeter determines Gross Calorific Value (GCV) of samples in liquid or solid state and can be controlled via on-unit display or computer.

Plus, hundreds of other time-saving innovations are also available. Customers ordering from the catalog can also take advantage of volume discounts―and save critical budget dollars.


Scoping the Moon

October 7, 2010
 

On this week 53 years ago, Sputnik I successfully launched and changed history. As the world’s first artificial satellite, the launch signaled the beginning of new developments in the military, politics, technology, and science. It also led to the creation of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).

For skywatchers, this anniversary is another reason to turn our eyes to the skies. To do so, a versatile telescope is necessary. Cole-Parmer offers a series of microscope/telescope combinations that allow users to magnify up close or view objects―including the moon―at a distance.

Constructed of durable aluminum and plastic, the scope has a 6° field of view. Its lens magnifies up to 10x as a telescope. The microscope/telescope combination includes a neck strap, micro lens stand, hard carrying case, and carrying strap. To use, simply unscrew the micro lens and stand and use the monocular as a telescope.

Because of its versatility, it can also be used for inspecting items up-close. As a microscope, it magnifies objects by 45x.


Protect Yourself from Arc Flashes

September 30, 2010

Whenever there is sufficient voltage in an electrical system and a path to ground, an electric arc or arc flash can occur.  Arc flashes can be quite dangerous and may cause extensive damage to electrical components, fires, or personal injury.  A typical arc flash may be insignificant, yet some can produce severe explosions and cause injury to those nearby .

It is extremely important when working with electrical equipment to take appropriate precautionary measures such as de-energizing electrical equipment and, of course, wearing personal protective equipment (PPE).  Arc Flash PPE materials are tested for their arc rating, which indicates the maximum incident energy resistance of that material.  Arc rating is typically expressed as small calories of heat energy per square centimeter (cal/cm2).  Tests to determine arc rating are available in ASTM F1506-10 Standard Performance Specification for Flame Resistant Textile Materials for Wearing Apparel for Use by Electrical Workers Exposed to Momentary Electric Arc and Related Thermal Hazards.

While PPE is important, the downside is that it provides protection after an arc flash incident has already occurred, and therefore should be viewed as the last line of protection. Reducing the frequency and severity of incidents should be the first option and can be achieved through a complete arc flash hazard assessment, along with implementing technology such as high resistance grounding (proven to reduce the frequency and severity of incidents).

In addition to appropriate PPE, consider working outside the hazard zone.  One product offered by Cole-Parmer that allows taking readings outside the hazard area is the Fluke 233 Remote Display Multimeter.

Fluke 233 Remote Display Multimeter

Fluke 233 Remote Display Multimeter

The 233 is a rugged digital multimeter (DMM) that can be used just like any other DMM in the field. Yet, it also offers the ability to safely take readings while energizing and de-energizing equipment. How many times have you had to place a meter in a precarious— and possibly unsafe position—in order to observe the readout? The wireless technology greatly reduces these risks.

A common practice in the electrical field is for someone to hold the meter as the technician reaches inside the control panel or switchgear to place the test leads for the measurement. This “meter reader” then is exposed to virtually the same shock and arc-flash hazards as the individual placing the test leads. With the 233’s detachable head, this “meter reader” can now stand safely outside of the Flash Protection Boundary while recording readings. Another issue― the inconvenience of taking readings while dressed out for Hazard Risk CAT III or CAT IV―also finds a remedy By enabling the person observing the meter reading to stand outside of the boundaries stated above, protective clothing requirements can most likely be reduced to a lower Hazard Risk Category..

Cole-Parmer cares about safety and offers a wide selection of safety apparel and electrical equipment to provide protection against arc flashes.


Economical New Benchtop Meters Meet GLP Requirements

September 23, 2010

The latest advancement in Oakton benchtop meters has arrived at Cole-Parmer. The new Oakton® 2700 Benchtop Meters offer advanced functionality, making them an excellent choice for research applications.

Oakton pH 2700 meterThe 2700-series meters feature superior, oversized displays with a bright backlight and dynamic stability indicator. The meters conveniently stamp all calibration and stored data with the time and date, meeting GLP requirements. Their nonvolatile memory stores and recalls up to 500 sets of data―simplifying the process of documenting large volumes of measurement. Advanced setup options enable user customization for added flexibility. Users can also program data logging intervals for continuous monitoring. Programmable limit alarm sounds off when readings fall out of range.

The Oakton pH 2700 meters have an expanded pH range from -2.000 to 20.000 with improved accuracy of +/- 0.002 pH and a resolution of 0.001 pH. Other models in the series are available to measure ion concentration, conductivity/TDS, pH/conductivity/TDS, and dissolved oxygen.


Innovative New Cameras Offer Views into Cramped Spaces―for Inspection and Analysis

September 9, 2010

An economical new video borescope inspection camera takes users where they haven’t been before. The miniature waterproof camera head allows high-resolution viewing in small spaces—ideal for automotive applications, building maintenance, and laboratory analysis.

Extech Video Borescope Inspection CameraThe Extech Video Borescope Inspection Camera features a 17-mm diameter camera head with four built-in illuminating LEDs and a 2.4″ color TFT LCD monitor. Video can be output for viewing on any monitor with a video input jack. Images are glare-free even with close-up viewing. A 39″L flexible gooseneck cable retains its configured shape.

A wireless version is also available with a 9-mm diameter camera head and a detachable 3.5″ color TFT LCD wireless monitor with 2GB microSD memory card for capturing images (JPEG) or video (AVI) for viewing on your PC. The wireless LCD can be viewed from a remote location up to 32 feet from measurement point. Its menu displays 10 languages.


Interested in Employee Safety? Discover the Latest in the Cole-Parmer Safety & Industrial Hygiene Catalog

September 2, 2010

Looking for personal protective equipment, safety instrumentation, and facility safety products? Find them in the new Cole-Parmer Safety & Industrial Hygiene catalog. This handy 104-page resource includes eye, hearing, and respiratory protection, sound meters, light meters, signage, storage items, and more to keep the workplace safe. All are available with no minimum order charge.

Cole_Parmer 2010/2011 Safety & Industrial Hygiene Catalog

  Product highlights include a variety of air quality monitors, ozone detectors, leak detectors, particle counters, and gas detectors. The new GasAlertMaxXT™ Four-Gas Detector offers a nonintrusive integrated pump to ensure a consistent, uniform flow and alert users to the hazardous presence of oxygen, carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulfide, and combustibles. Other new entries include the Delmhorst® BD-2100 Digital Moisture Meter, Quest® Edge®-Series Cable-Free Noise Dosimeters, Plum Emergency Personal Eye and Skin Washes, Microflex® MidKnight™ Gloves, and more.    

The catalog features useful online tools as well. Learn how to access the popular Safety Glove Chemical Compatibility Database to choose the best glove material for a particular application. Information on calibration services for humidity, sound meters, air velocity, and gas monitors is also included. To request a free Cole-Parmer Safety & Industrial Hygiene catalog, call 800-323-4340 or visit ColeParmer.com.


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