COMMERCE
& TECHNOLOGY
CRYOGENIC SYSTEM FOR OPTICAL STUDIES A series of complete cryogenic systems, suitable for use in fluorescence measurements, laser studies, infra-red detectors, irradiation studies, Mossbauer effect studies, and optical measurements of all types, has been announced by Andonian Associates, Inc. Top-loading samples mounted in throttled exchange gas can be maintained at any temperature between 1-3 and 350 ° K. The manufacturers claim that the 024/7M series has such features as rapid sample cool-down, rapid sample changeover without removal of refrigerants, uniform sample temperature, easy sample alignment, and provision for optional thermometry. The equipment is helium tested before shipment. The systems are offered in a variety of standard sizes, many of which are available from stock.
Business Notes U.K.-U.S.A.-France Selling Link
Miniature gas liquefier Following the success of their MC.8 series of miniature gas liquefiers--the 'minicoolers'--Hymatic Engineering Co. Limited have announced the introduction of an even smaller liquefier, the MAC 216. This device weighs less than 2 oz (56 g) and measures 0'183 in. (4.5 mm) diameter by 1-83 in. (47 mm). Its dimensions can be varied to suit particular installations. Liquefaction is obtained by the Joule-Thomson effect and a counterflow heat exchanger. Constant temperatures in the range 77-200 ° K are attained, with the liquefier operating in an ambient range of - 4 0 to 80 ~ C. CRYOGENICS'
APRIL
1967
A new company has been promoted to market cryogenic vessels in the European Economic Community countries. Soci6t6 Francaise des Techniques Butterfield (S.F.T.B.), formed by American Cosmodyne Corporation and W. P. Butterfield (Engineers), will have sole selling rights in the E.E.C for Butterfield-designed vessels manufactured under exclusive licence by Compagnie des Ateliers et Forges de la Loire at Firminy, France. I.C.I. Transfer Argon Interests
A change in its ammonia manufacturing process, now based on steam naphtha reforming, has led the U.K. Imperial Chemical Industries Limited, Agricultural Division, to transfer all its argon storage and distribution equipment to Air Products Limited, who have now negotiated new contracts with I.C.I.'s customers. Union Carbide Sales Record
Union Carbide Corporation report a new sales record in 1966. Sales figures reached $2 223 980 000 (£794 278 562), 8 per cent up on 1965. Net profit was also a record at $230 973 000 (£82 490 356). New Irish Agency
Messer Griesheim Limited have appointed J. S. Lister Limited, Dublin, as sole agent for their welding and cryogenic equipment in Northern Ireland and Eire. 121