6 Mar 2012
Redundancy with zero switchover time
Belden has extended its Hirschmann™ product program to include Ethernet switches from the new RSP family. These are especially designed for use in the field-level networks of power supply companies, but they also can be used in any situation where uninterrupted communication is required, for instance for mechanical engineering projects or drives for production facilities. These extremely robust fanless switches have eleven ports, three of which can be used for SFP transceivers. These support Fast (100 BASE-FX) or – optionally – Gigabit Ethernet (100/1000 BASE-FX). The remaining eight ports can be used either for 100 BASE-TX or as a combination of four SFP transceivers and four TX ports. Additional features of these switches include comprehensive management, diagnostic and filter functions plus a variety of redundancy methods and markedly expanded security mechanisms. In addition to the standard configuration, Hirschmann™ also offers a version that supports highly precise synchronization compliant with IEEE 1588v2, plus PRP (Parallel Redundancy Protocol) and HSR (High-availability Seamless Redundancy). This means that, for the first time, it is now possible to implement networks that guarantee uninterrupted data communications with the attached systems and can thus – in the case of the electricity supply industry – guarantee reliable power supplies to end customers at all times.
2 Mar 2012
Clariant gives designers and brand managers vital insight with new color palettes
Muttenz, March 2, 2012 - Color is a powerful communications tool with the ability to convey emotions and stories. It has deep connections with cultural, political, religious and social influences, as we all respond to color psychologically and intuitively. In a world filled with conflicts and pressures, the impact of color, whether conscious or subliminal, can bring value to our lives by positively influencing our moods. It can take us from sad to happy, tired to alert, anxious to calm. In knowledgeable hands, valuable guidance can be provided for applying color to real-world challenges to achieve desired outcomes. In the world of plastics, that guidance comes from Clariant's ColorWorks™ and its ColorForward™ color design tool.
29 Feb 2012
SHELL AND LBC TANK TERMINALS SIGN AGREEMENT FOR THE CONSTRUCTION AND OPERATION OF TWO BITUMEN STORAGE FACILITIES IN FRANCE
Shell and LBC Tank Terminals have signed an agreement for the construction and operation of two bitumen storage facilities to be located at the LBC terminals in Nantes and Bayonne, both in France. The facilities are expected to be operational as from February 2013.
29 Feb 2012
Clariant Innovation Center Cornerstone Laid at Industriepark Höchst for 500 New Research Jobs

- Finance Minister Thomas Schäfer: Investment brings major benefits
- Christian Kohlpaintner: 100 million euros to provide optimal conditions for sustainable, successful research
28 Feb 2012
Integrated shielding ensures high functional reliability
The new M12 receptacle connectors from Belden's Lumberg Automation™ product range can be used to connect control units to ProfiNet/Profibus networks via bus modules as well as to transmit analog data at field level. Integrated shielding between devices brings a high level of functional reliability. The receptacle connectors are available with assembled control cables or with printed contacts for PCB mounting. In the printed contact versions, the integrated shielding ensures optimum flexibility for shield continuity. In the case of the assembled connectors, and depending on the port assignment of the control units, a diagnostics interface can be implemented outside the switch cabinet using an Ethernet connection. This practically eliminates the disruptions resulting from repair or maintenance work. These receptacle connectors are simple to install thanks to standardized M12 connection technology and color-coded bus connections. Additional features include industrial protection class IP67, high shock and vibration resistance, and a wide temperature range of -30° to +80° C. They enable highly-available data communication solutions in areas such as mechanical and plant engineering, material handling or public transport.
28 Feb 2012
MEVOPUR® offers antimicrobial options for medical devices

- New formulations extend the MEVOPUR® range with MedX antimicrobial additives
- Avoidance of secondary antimicrobial coating operation supports manufacturing productivity
27 Feb 2012
Clariant awarded the EU Ecolabel for its Advanced Denim Illustration Collection

- Award recognizes Clariant's ground-breaking innovation in sustainable denim production for textile industry
- Added-value Advanced Denim process supports industry's global fashion trends and efficiency goals
24 Feb 2012
Azelis to distribute Merck cosmetic raw materials in Northern Europe
Merck KGaA and Azelis have entered into a distribution agreement for cosmetic raw materials from Merck. According to the agreement, Merck will grant the marketing rights for its cosmetic raw materials in Denmark, Sweden, Finland and Norway to Azelis, a leading European distributor of specialty chemicals. Apart from logistics, Azelis will be responsible for local customer support and applications technology. In turn, Merck will support Azelis with research and development, training and in regulatory issues. The cooperation agreement was signed in December 2011 and has already taken effect.
