Many New Products Introduced at 2017 NPGA Southeastern Convention

A wide variety of new propane-related products were unveiled at the 70th NPGA Southeastern Convention & International Propane Expo in Nashville. For your convenience, compiled below is a helpful overview of the new products on exhibit in the Innovation Pavilion, on the exhibit floor and in the Autogas Pavilion at the 2017 NPGA Southeastern Convention. HIghlights of products on exhibit in the Innovation Pavilion were introduced to the market within the last year.

Marshall Excelsior (MEC) has introduced several new quick-acting hose end valves with less than .044cc loss at disconnect without sacrificing flow.

The ME777-4 L.E. quick-acting M. POL x ½-in. FNPT inlet, ME778-4 L.E. quick acting F. QCC x ½ in. FNPT inlet, and ME779N-4 L.E. quick-connect filler F. QCC x 1/2-in. FNPT inlet feature instant full-on flow with the added protection of a quick-closing, self-locking handle to prevent accidental opening of the valve during handling or storage. The valves are designed to be used at the end of a filling hose on dispensing systems equipped for filling containers with QCC Type I OPD or F. POL type valves.

Snap-Fill Adapter

Cavagna Group and Bergquist Inc. have collaborated on a new Snap-Fill adapter that allows users of the Snap-Fill nozzle to seamlessly fill forklift cylinders equipped with the European connection valve.

Not yet in production, the new the Snap-Fill valve utilizes the same connection as other Euro-style snap-on fittings, rather than Acme threads, to provide an ergonomically seamless connection that can help prevent wrist injuries due to repetitive use. Previously, the only solutions were to fit the bobtail with a secondary nozzle or stay with the old fill, taking more time from the driver and increasing the possibility of carpal tunnel syndrome from repeated fitting of the nozzles. The adapter allows the user to take a traditional nozzle and attach it to the adapter itself, connect easily to the Euro-fill valve, and fill the cylinder by volume. Users can save about 45 seconds per tank from one fill to the next.

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Marshall Excelsior (MEC) has introduced several new quick-acting hose end valves with less than .044cc loss at disconnect without sacrificing flow.

The ME777-4 L.E. quick-acting M. POL x ½-in. FNPT inlet, ME778-4 L.E. quick acting F. QCC x ½ in. FNPT inlet, and ME779N-4 L.E. quick-connect filler F. QCC x 1/2-in. FNPT inlet feature instant full-on flow with the added protection of a quick-closing, self-locking handle to prevent accidental opening of the valve during handling or storage. The valves are designed to be used at the end of a filling hose on dispensing systems equipped for filling containers with QCC Type I OPD or F. POL type valves.

Origin Engines’ 6.2L V-8 engine package,

offered by Industrial-Irrigation, is EPA certified for use in generator sets, pump sets, and irrigation applications. Complete power units are built to customer specifications.

RegO has added service technician-friendly innovations to its regulators.

They now feature easy-to-read, laser engraved date, part number, and ID number. A redesigned adjusting screw is now tool-free and easily turned by hand; the pressure port plug fits a common 7/16-in. hex wrench; and a lanyard loop makes the bonnet cap easier to secure. New packaging with stabilizing inserts keeps the regulator in perfect shape.

using powerful, concealed magnets; and improved hardware waterproof durability for extended service life. The monitor comes with the latest iPhone or Android app featuring current tank level, past usage charts, and email alerts.

AIUT has launched a new tank monitoring solution for U.S. and Canadian customers.

The OKO 5875, an advanced LTE Cat.4 communication gateway, combines with ALEVE 0275 sensors and SIMAX software to create a comprehensive, convenient, and affordable all-in-one package for propane customers. AIUT’s Intelligent Meter Reading (IMR) System allows users 24/7 access from any desktop or mobile device to accurate information about the propane inventory, infrastructure, and installed monitoring equipment. It generates a wide range of reports, including billing reports in a personalized form. By continuous analysis of the operation’s key parameters, the system provides important information to make the best business decisions.

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It can be installed in the field by coupling the tankless rack system to the storage tank and recovery pump skid system. Installation time is reduced by limiting in-field plumbing installation to coupling the system together and connecting the supply. The modular design allows for various rack configurations. The system is designed as a replacement for boiler and storage tank applications.

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The integrated inverter and batteries allow for solar/wind inputs and net metering with the electric grid.

The new products aren’t just in the Innovation Pavilion, though. Here are just a few that attendees can see on the Expo floor…

Bergquist Inc.

has introduced the LPG TankCheck from Mopeka Products, an ultrasonic sensor to determine the exact level of propane in a cylinder. The TankCheck, a small ultrasonic sensor, sits at the bottom of the propane tank and reads the amount of propane at all times. Users can read levels either through a standalone display monitor or via a Bluetooth application that’s available for both IOS or Android phones and tablets. The magnetic monitor can be used with RV cylinders, gas grills, residential LP tanks, and steel forklift cylinders.

Cargas

has launched a new version of its mobile delivery software. As an application in the Cargas Energy Solution, the Mobile Delivery integrates back office dispatching wirelessly to an on-board computer on the trucks, giving companies the capability to manage delivery operations in real time. The software can be run on Android or Windows devices.

Corken’s new DL16 turbine pump

can be used for autogas dispensing and cylinder filling applications. It offers higher flow rates and differential pressures than previous models and is dimensionally interchangeable with existing Corken direct-mount pumps. Its seal seat material lowers leakage rates, minimizes maintenance, increases durability, and lengthens run times. The DL16 is made in the USA and uses standard coupling sizes so no metric parts are required.

Advanced Digital Data Inc. (ADD Systems) has launched the Raven software mobile delivery solution on a Panasonic Toughpad tablet.

The new Raven tablet is redesigned to take advantage of the larger rugged touchscreen display and an intuitive user experience to simplify use. All of the previous functionality exists, including the ability to connect with the ADD Energy E3 Dispatch Monitor to get updated and optimized routes throughout the day and to a real-time view of trucks, delivery progression, and inventory levels for dispatchers, customer service representatives, and clients.

Technology Assurance Labs has introduced the new OWL 3G cellular radio for monitoring both propane meters and tanks.

It comes with a 10-year battery warranty and a robust OWL software application that includes a “pay as you go” feature. It works on laptops, tablets, or cell phones.

Smith Pumps

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. The easy-to-navigate site allows its features to be accessed in the field when they may be needed the most. Included on the site is a tutorials section that includes an in-depth view of Smith’s product line, a literature section with a “search” option, and a reformatted pump performance calculator.

Blackmer’s Ebsray RC40 series regenerative turbine pump, now available for use in North America

, can be used for LPG applications, including autogas, and features increased flow rates and design enhancements. The pumps have a single-stage impeller, a C-face motor bracket that fits NEMA and IEC B5 and B14 motors. A unique 3-ported design with two discharge ports provides installation flexibility.

Emerson Process Management has released the new Fisher Type 63EGLP bulk storage tank relief valve

, typically used on 30,000-gal. and larger propane tank applications. It features a 40% increase in relief capacity that can reduce costs for tanks of 90,000 gallons or larger as only two Fisher Type 63EGLPs are required versus three traditional multiport relief valves.

WESROC has upgraded its mobile app, which is designed for personnel in the field who interact with WESROC tank monitoring equipment and the WESROC.net online portal.

The app makes on-site hardware set-up easier and more accurate by utilizing the mobile device’s camera to enable users to scan the monitoring hardware’s bar code for easy syncing to WESROC.net. The app also has a GPS coordinate-capturing feature that plots the tank’s location. Tank levels, history, temperatures, and other monitored data are easy to access and view.

InSite/NASCorp. has released its fourth-generation of SkyTracker remote tank monitor, the SkyTracker IV,

with a dealer data recovery system that builds on its original direct-to-low-Earth-orbital-satellite remote tank and SmartHome monitoring system. In addition to interfaces with usual mechanical float gauges, it can monitor bulk products via a capacitance gauge; a cellular modem option that will offer all of the reporting of the satellite model plus two-way communication so an end-user tank can receive updates or a dealer can modify reporting functions such as low-fuel notices, tank percentage drops and/or parameters for events not consistent with an end-user’s history. The system can send alerts if a tank is moved.

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The site brings together autogas industry manufacturers, products, processes, educational tools, and services specially designed for this fast-growing segment of the propane industry.

Cavagna Group

is showing its remote filling valve, the Euro Filler.

The UL-listed filling valve with 1/2-in. SAE flare inlet allows filling through the use of a low-emission quick-connector that meets EN12806 standards. Also available are a full range of Euro Filler to ACME and ACME to Euro Filler adapters, regardless of the filling station connection. In addition, the Euro Filler to ACME adapter includes the company’s patented “safety feature” that prevents accidental disconnection of the filling gun from the adapter once it is fully connected to the adapter during refueling.

Hanbay’s Dual Fail-Safe Actuator

is designed for use with propane and vapor, natural gas, butane, and NH3, and is ideal for propane tanks, bobtails, trucks, and propane dispensers. Built with RegO’s 1-1/4-in. internal valve and enclosed in a CSA/UL-listed explosion-proof case, it offers reliable on/off control emergency valve shut-off and maintenance-free operation in any weather conditions.

Highland Tank’s LPG

vessels on display are designed and constructed to ASME, Section VIII, Division I and NFPA 58 “Liquefied Petroleum Gas Code” for stationary use vessels. The LPG vessels are constructed using SA516 Grade 70 steel, employing full-penetration butt welds on all seams. Standard vessel sizes for industrial and commercial bulk uses range from 3900 to 60,000 gallons.

Intermountain Truck

is displaying its mobile autogas temporary filling station with a 1000-gal. skid-mounted dispenser on a trailer with generator, eight water-fillable crash barriers, and fuel management system. The dispenser skid can be removed from the trailer for a permanent installation. The station features a Class 1, division 1 explosion-proof dispenser with euro nozzle, Fuel Master fuel management, a Corken D16 pump with 3-hp single-phase motor, and cylinder filling hose in a lockable bottom cabinet.

is displaying its mobile autogas temporary filling station with a 1000-gal. skid-mounted dispenser on a trailer with generator, eight water-fillable crash barriers, and fuel management system. The dispenser skid can be removed from the trailer for a permanent installation. The station features a Class 1, division 1 explosion-proof dispenser with euro nozzle, Fuel Master fuel management, a Corken D16 pump with 3-hp single-phase motor, and cylinder filling hose in a lockable bottom cabinet.

Manchester Tank & Equipment

is displaying its single and double manifold ASME autogas tanks and equipment, DOT propane cylinders, and aluminum forklift cylinders. In addition, mower cylinders and propane hand burners will be also be shown.

Parafour

is offering a new, improved second-generation ECO-AIR unit that has a 50% faster recycle time and 80% more actuator operations between compressor cycles. With a higher operating pressure, Mil-Spec, 2-piston compressor, NEMA 4X poly enclosure, standard 1-gal. aluminum air receiver, and an optional 2-gal. high-capacity reservoir, it eliminates the recurrent cost of nitrogen cylinders and the high cost of running out. The ECO-AIR is a maintenance-free and low operating cost option utilizing pressurized air to operate internal valves, ESVs and other pressure-operated devices.

Parafour

is displaying its SECCP Series control panels for autogas stations and bulk plants. Custom-built to the site, they provide all required NFPA 58, 30A, and 70 (NEC) functions. They come complete with motor- and pump-specific starter relay, current-monitoring motor overload protection, time-delay relays when using with actuated internal valves, isolation relays for multiple dispensers or pump controls, and the ability to connect in series with multiple E-STOP buttons. It is designed for use with up to 12 hoses, and 6 pumps, and offered as both a basic unit for a small cylinder filling station, through large multi-island autogas stations and large multi-pump bulk plants, and can be used with single- or three-phase power from 120-480 volts, including the use of VFDs for either phase conversion or enhanced pump control.

SLEEGERS Propane Evacuation System

on display is a self-contained unit that includes everything to safely and efficiently evacuate liquid and propane vapor from a motor fuel tank. Current liquid-injection propane technologies require the motor fuel tank to be opened for filter replacement and pump service. The evacuation system provides the autogas industry with a safe and compliant service tool that also conserves all stranded fuel for reuse.

SLEEGERS is showing an Automated Propane Cylinder Exchange Kiosk

that allows customers to purchase or exchange barbecue cylinders at any time without an attendant. The Web-enabled kiosk is third-party certified to applicable North American standards and is equipped with various safety features. The system uses a secure PCI-compliant payment terminal that accepts debit and credit card transactions.

, strives to unite interested propane autogas beneficiaries to promote the advancement of propane use in vehicles and equipment as a viable, safe, clean, affordable, and recognized alternative fuel for the future, while utilizing one of America’s own natural resources. Its mission is to create a group of “hands-on” technical members that are dedicated to working together to promote autogas and continue building the propane industry. Its goals are to have everyone involved from propane vehicle systems manufacturers, system installers and service points, manufacturers and installers of fueling infrastructure, propane fuel suppliers, propane fuel retailers, and fleet administrators, to be able to provide education and solutions to users of autogas.