Carleton, Author at Express

Everything You Need to Know About UID and MIL-STD-130

If you have never been contracted to handle government inventory or assets, you may not be aware of what UID Labels are or the importance of subscribing to MIL-STD-130 guidelines. These two systems play a critical role in the management of public assets as laid down by the Department of Defense. What is UID? A…

Everything You Need to Know About UID and MIL-STD-130

Published: 11/06/201903/14/2023

UID & MIL-STD-130

What is UID?

A UID system is a system put in place by the Department of Defense to ensure the ease of tracing government assets. The idea behind its creation is to design a unique identification number or code for each individual asset different from another. Furthermore, the difference in coding is to ensure that there are no duplicates of the same numbers. As long as the stipulated procedures are adhered to, accuracy and information reliability is sustained. The Department of Defense uses UID Labels to track the value of an asset, its location, quantity, and its current state. By so doing, the Department is able to monitor their usage and maintain them when necessary.

What is the difference between UID and IUID?

You may have come across assets with both inscriptions in the past and this may have caused you some form of confusion. You are however not alone as many people have had issues distinguishing between a UID Label and an IUID Label. The UID term is commonly used in referring to marking labels or asset tags and it has different names such as UID Code, UID Tag, or UID Label. However, the modern trend we observe today is that the term IUID is used to convey the specific identification of an asset.

IUID labels use a special 2D barcode which can be scanned. The UII is the asset detail embedded in the barcode. When you scan this code, the information it contains can be tracked with special software. When analyzing UID, there are certain acronyms whose meanings hold vital importance. They are

UID– Unique Identification

IUID– Item Unique Identification

UII– Unique Item Identifier

Why is a UID Label so important?

If you are a current or prospective contractor, using UID Labels on assets is mandatory and not an optional choice. UID labeling is mandatory as per the DOD’s MIL-STD-130 guidelines for all government assets. It will interest you to know that even contractors demand UID on their assets as well. So, therefore, if you have a contract from the government to produce equipment for the military, you need to ensure that each individual equipment is labeled correctly using MIL-STD-130 specifications. For clarity’s sake, let us throw more light on MIL-STD-130 Basics.

MIL-STD-130 and the relationship with UID

When it comes to subscribing to the tenets of MIL-STD-130, there are a few complex marking requirements involved in the process. Under this guideline, the government of the US calls on all contractors handling military asset contracts to place special markings on the equipment that they produce. In accordance with these guidelines, the special UID Label should appear on all government purchased physical equipment. If you are a contractor and you want to be UID complaint, you will need to use UID Labels or marks on the asset that will last for as long as it’s lifecycle.

Best practices of MIL-STD-130

UID Labels are meant to withstand extreme weather conditions wherever they are deployed and these labels are expected to last a lifetime. As a contractor, it is advisable that you only pick a company that produces UID Labels using industry-standard best practices and complying with the DOD guidelines. A UID provider who understands the standards is in the best possible position to create labels that will not violate MIL-STD-130 rules. Very good providers ensure that

Assets are marked properly
Codes aid data management
UID Labels are properly installed
Registered items are MIL-STD-130 compliant

Benefits of installing quality UID Labels

Property accountability: UID Labels ensure that all assets are properly accounted for. Assets that are still in use can easily be differentiated from the ones that have been put out of commission.

Maintenance Management: Handling a few assets may not be a tough task, but when these assets or equipment number several hundred or thousands, it becomes a challenge to identify those in need of maintenance. With UID Labels, you can keep track of which individual asset has been maintained and at what time. This will help you regulate maintenance schedules for all of them.

Reduction in Operational Cost: Tracking assets in real-time costs a lot of resources. When tracking is done haphazardly, the cost of operation is more expensive. Proper UID markings can help decision-makers regulate the use of each asset so as to ensure that only the required assets are put to use at every specific point in time. This reduces the cost of deploying more assets than required.

Logistic Support: Perhaps the greatest benefit of using UID Labels is the Logistical support it provides users.

Warranty Management: Knowing when the warranty on each asset expires is part of an effective asset management strategy that the Department of Defense takes seriously. UID Labels can be used to ascertain the warranty placed on assets.

Report Accuracy: UID can be helpful when compiling a report on assets because every asset in each category can be tracked and their current state evaluated.

Avoid Rejections: Most importantly, if you are contractor, engraving the assets you supply to the DOD with quality UID’s will help you avoid rejections, which will cost you more resources to correct. The Department of Defense only accepts assets that meet standard MIL-STD-130 guidelines.

In conclusion, UID labels play an all-important role in asset management for the Department of Defense. These labels ensure sound asset management and accountability. They also aid efficiency and maintenance. If you are a DOD contractor, make sure that all the assets you deliver are engraved with standard UID Labels and you will have nothing to worry about.

The Complete Barcode Guide

Barcodes Barcodes are traditionally described as a “manner of storing printed numbers for computers to read.It would, however, be more accurate to say that barcodes store printed information on a barcode label so that computers can read it.The first barcodes represented numbers using bars – lines written at various widths and spaced at multiple distances…

The Complete Barcode Guide

Published: 11/06/201903/14/2023

Barcode Labels & Asset Tags

Barcodes

Barcodes are traditionally described as a “manner of storing printed numbers for computers to read.It would, however, be more accurate to say that barcodes store printed information on a barcode label so that computers can read it.The first barcodes represented numbers using bars – lines written at various widths and spaced at multiple distances from each other.Barcodes went mainstream when supermarkets started to use it at checkout points. Wrigley’s Juicy Fruit Gum became the first product in the world sold with a barcode on June 26^th, 1974.

1D (Linear) Barcodes

These first barcodes were one-dimensional barcodes that were machine-readable and contained encoded information.Those used in supermarkets are so-called European Article Numbers (EAN), which is a standard used for 1D barcodes.The so-called EAN-13 is typically found on retail products, and display lines of various widths at variable distances apart, with a row of readable numbers below each string.

A great variety of barcodes quickly developed, all with different symbologies. The term symbology refers to the mapping between messages and includes the encoding of the encoding into bars and spaces, the size of the start and stop markers, and the size of the quiet zone before and after the barcode.

1D Barcode Types

CODE 39

Code 39 defines 43 characters that include uppercase letters A to Z, numeric digits from one to nine, and some special characters.The most significant disadvantage of code 39 is its low data density. It requires substantial space to encode data, which makes it useless for tiny goods. Many postal services still use it, and most barcode readers can decode it. It is still used widely in the defense industry.

CODE 128

A code 128 barcode has these sections:

Quiet Zone I – This is a mandatory space at the left and right of the 128 bar code and is of fixed width.
Start Character – The start and stop symbols are always followed by a 2-unit bar, which then forms a 13-unit long stop pattern.
Data Sequence
Checksum – The checksum is used and required in a code 128 barcode to verify the correctness of the data represented, especially during transmission or The whole unit of data can be checked and verified by a single number, which is the checksum. If the checksum is incorrect, errors have occurred.
Stop Character
Quiet Zone II – A code 128 barcode is much denser than a code 39 barcode, and it stores a much more considerable amount of data on a small label, making it suitable for use in shipping and supply chain management. It uses a short alpha-numeric code that fits a tiny label.

2D BARCODES

Two-dimensional barcodes can store more information than One Dimensional (1D) barcodes because they store information both vertically and horizontally.

A 2D Barcode can store approximately 350 times more information than a 1D barcode. 2D Barcodes store info in geometric patterns containing squares, hexagons, rectangles, and many other forms that can all be scanned and deciphered by computers.

2D Barcodes make it possible to store and display a great deal of information that remains readable even when printed directly onto the surface of products or packaging or tiny printed labels. This results in fast access to information. Also, 2D barcodes allow the encoding of URLs, which enables barcode readers to access a lot more information by going to the indicated websites.This ability to link to the internet makes 2D barcodes very popular as a tool for mobile users. Mobile phones are equipped with 2D scanners or with the ability to download 2D scanner and reader applications. One well-known app, Whatsapp, for example, comes with an inbuilt 2D scanner. There are many competing 2D barcodes, including QR Codes, Data Matrix Codes, and many more.

DATA MATRIX

A data matrix is a two-dimensional code of black and white dots arranged in a pattern that contains encoded information, albeit text or numeric data of up to 1556 bytes initially, but now it can encode up to 3,116 characters from the ASCII set, all depending on the number of cells in the matrix. Typically data matrix is suitable for tiny objects.

Around the edges of the symbol, it contains a finder pattern that allows scanners to read the profile regardless of the reader’s angle. It includes an error correction (checksum) encoding that survives damage to the barcode, physically. Data matrix is prevalent in the USA and Europe in parts manufacturing and aerospace industries, electronics, and automotive manufacturing.It is also suitable for use in logistics and document management, the postal sector, and healthcare.

Data matrix codes are read with imagers and camera based-instruments that read a geometric area rather than a specific line for data.Laser scanners cannot read the data matrix code.

QR CODE

QR codes, shorthand for Quick Response code, is a 2D matrix barcode that originates in Japan, where it was developed for tracking automotive parts in factories.

QR codes contain a tracker or locator that leads to the URL of either a website or an application, using numeric, alphanumeric binary and kanji to store information.It can be scanned very quickly, and this made it very popular for many other purposes outside the automotive industry.It is, therefore, handy for product tracking, time tracking, and general marketing.

Physically a QR code is printed on a white background in a square grid that contains black squares, which can be read by camera-like instruments. It includes a unique error-identification system that is known as the Reed-Solomon error correction system that ensures the appropriate interpretation of the image.

QR codes came into its rightful position as the primary application used to bridge the gap between the digital and the real world.It can encode 2,509 numeric or 1.520 alphanumeric characters with various levels of error-detection. Today QR codes are found on most things around us, partly because it is universally supported by open-source software.

Barcode Scanners

Barcode scanners today are incredibly accurate and relatively inexpensive. According to available data, scanners err with as few as one substitution error for every 36 trillion characters entered, depending on the type of barcode used, of course.

More Barcode Benefits

It can be used to profile consumers through the use of voluntary registration cards
Information about a shipment can be transmitted using an Electronic Data Interchange to the client before the purchase even arrives at its destination
Deliveries can be tracked from sender to final destination
Changes in price can be updated on the computer, so the cashier does not have to know or keep up with the changes.
Data from machines can be stored using barcodes.
It can be used to identify and keep track of patients in hospitals while assisting medical practitioners in tracking their individual medical histories.
It can be used as boarding passes by airlines instead of tickets
Can be used instead of tickets at events

Best Practices Guide: How to Label an IT and Data Center

Some time ago, managing a data centre was so straightforward. However, due to the unavoidable circumstances of processing more and more data, the management of data centres keeps growing in complexity. It has complicated the situation that now there are new operational factors such as power, cooling, network rack space, and CPU availability being taken…

Best Practices Guide: How to Label an IT and Data Center

Published: 11/01/201902/10/2023

Data Center

In addition, this is influenced by other factors leaning towards IT systems, and the data centre’s infrastructure components that play a key role in running the entire establishment. Efficient labelling is not only a major determinant in ensuring effective data centre performance, but it also looks at high-performing enterprise networks.

To maintain a smooth running of data centres and network facilities, it is important to establish what is being deployed where, what the purpose of each component is, and what it ultimately connects to. That is why having server labels is a great way of increasing the efficiency of data centre troubleshooting and management.

Data Centre Core Components

As we already know, the data centre is the department in an enterprise that houses and maintains back-end Information Technology (IT) systems and data stores.

The core components of a data centre include:

Facility

Facility components are very important in regards to the data centre. They include the following areas:

Physical location – the data centre can be a separate facility by itself, or it can be within the same building
Physical Space – this comprises of;
Data Room Space – houses the IT equipment.
Mechanical and Electrical Space – houses the cooling and electrical panels, the UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) and its batteries.
NOC Space – allocated outside the data centre for operators to monitor data centre activities
Staging Area Space – used to unpack the new IT equipment before deployment to the data centre
Data Room – comprises of;
IT racks and cabinets
CRAC units required to cool down IT equipment
Physical Access – includes;
Access control to the data centre
Surveillance i.e. CCTV

IT Infrastructure

This has to do with the following areas:

IT servers
Communication equipment:
Core Switch/router
ISP equipment linking the data centre to the outside world
Patch Panels to connect IT equipment together
Storage Equipment:
- Storage Area Network (SAN) – a shared pool of storage devices to multiple servers.
- Network Attached Storage (NAS) – specialised for saving files by hardware, software or configuration.
Environmental Sensors:
- Smoke detection sensors
- Water leakage detectors
- Temperature/Humidity detectors

Electrical Equipment

This deals with all power-related devices such as:

Backup Generator(s) which can be:
- Prime Power Rating type
- Standby type
- ATS (Automatic Transfer Switches) – used to transfer the load in case of city power failure
- UPS
- PDU (Power Distribution Unit)

Mechanical Equipment

The mechanical part of the data centre is meant for the following:

Cooling containments:
- Cold Aisle type
- Hot Aisle type
Computer Room Air Conditioner (CRAC) units – to cool down IT racks
Chiller Plants (located on top of the building) – Support the cooling system
Raised Floor – allow cold air to reach IT equipment

How to Properly Label a Data Centre

Managing cables in the data centre can prove to be a complex and difficult task. There are usually two extremes whereby organisations either do not use any form of labelling or use it on everything to the point of confusion. The way to go is to find a happy medium between the two by implementing a smart solution that will simplify and contribute to a more efficient working environment. Barcode identification is a reliable solution in data centres when it comes to:

Internet Server – It is important to ensure that your server labels are identifiable from the front to the back. Typically, both ends of the cable should always be labelled. Ultimately, barcode labels for internet servers ensure that when there is a physical plant problem, the labelling will making it easier to locate and sort out the issue.
Server Racks – When it comes to server racks, the organisation of the server cables is crucial. Our server labels were designed to arrange your network cabinets in the most orderly way without sacrificing server rack space. Data centre barcode labels ensure both vertical and horizontal cables offer a fully adjustable solution for storing cables on a sliding shelf.
Routers – A proper routing labelling system should deliver flexible and easily-deployed pathways for overhead, under-floor and wall-mount applications in the data centre and the whole network infrastructure. For example, having elongated wire constructions that increase the surface area will reduce cable strain and deformation.
CAT 5 Cables – The type of cabling used in a structured wiring system should be well-labelled and organized. Choosing Category 5/5e cables as specified by the bandwidth requirements of the system and should be tested to ensure proper performance. Barcode labels for computer equipment will make the process of tracking CAT 5 cables efficient than before.
Power Cables – Labelling the cables to indicate the power source and the destination – Power Distribution Unit (PDU), will ensure easy traceability, and make equipment upgrades or replacements easier. In case of any problem, labelling power cables facilitates easier installation when on-site, and for quicker isolation when one needs to shut the power down.
Navigation/directional signs on floors and isles – Working with cutting-edge, industrial labelling tools that utilize the smart technology of IT barcode labels, will incorporate intuitive navigation and versatile functionality that will help make data centre component identification and labelling relatively quick and effortless to execute.

How to Properly Label IT Equipment

Using barcode labels for computer equipment is the most productive way of keeping track of all your IT assets. It incorporates a cloud-based tracking system where barcoded asset tags are attached to each individual asset and scanned to check items in or out of your asset tracking software.

Whether it’s your computers, laptops, tablets, keyboards, mice, etc., using barcode labels for computer equipment is an efficient way of improving accountability and making audits much easier. Deployment of laptops to performing an all-inclusive audit will be easier when checking for IT equipment.

You can determine which ones have gone for repair and who received the equipment in the past, thereby, ensuring compliance with company policies and procedures. It also improves asset tracking by saving time and eliminating data-entry errors appertaining to manual processes.

Types of Labels

Server Labels – Scaling needs to be done in order to handle all the data streaming from proxy servers. Label servers only deal with the actual data being filtered – usually the URL and a bit of additional information from the HTTP request headers. This allows them to concentrate solely on filtering, offering much higher performance.
Network Labels – Network labels are essential for a properly-installed structured cabling system. They help to ease the troubleshooting process, ensure quality assurance, reducing human error, save time and long-term costs over the network’s lifecycle.
Cable Labels – Cable labelling is important in the identification, assembly and repair of electrical control panels, wire harnesses, and data/telecommunications systems. It is utilized to save time, upfront cost on labour expenses when changes or repairs are being made. They include:
- Heat-Shrink Tubing – Ideal for un-terminated wires or cables needing superior abrasion and chemical resistance.
- Wrap-Around Labels – Ideal for the general marking of terminated/unterminated cables and wires that may be curved or become curved.
- Self-Laminating labels – Ideal for terminated cables or wires that may need additional abrasion or chemical resistance.
- Cable Flags – Ideal for getting larger amounts of data on small diameter wire and cables such as fibre optic cables.
- Non-Adhesive Tags – Ideal for multi-conductor cables or bundled wires/cables.
Computer and Laptop Labels – Laptop and computer labels are designed to protect the asset acquisition/ investment of a company against rampant theft. These asset labelling material include:
- Vinyl Asset Labels
- Polyester Asset Labels
- Aluminium Foil Labels
- Destructible Tamper Evident Labels
- Tamper VOID Labels
- Self-Laminating Labels
- Asset Tracking Labels
- Mini Mark Asset Labels
- Aluminium Plates
- ID Plates
- QR Code & Data Matrix Labels
- Labels for Industry
- Micro Labels
IT Equipment Labels – IT equipment labels help to improve accountability of valuable IT equipment. They are used to track and monitor important equipment with reliable asset tags, barcode labels, and a secure RFID tag.

Essential Technology

Labels – The packaging and labelling industry is constantly growing, and with the continued growth comes advancement. As technology evolves, many processes and standards being used have improved within the industry. Labels now provide complete solutions for the barcode labelling sector.

There has been outstanding innovation of brand-new programmable print modules that combine a precision print technique using high-performance electronics, including a wide variety of modern sensors to produce labels.

Scanners – Scanners and PDAs are critical for your product identification and traceability. They help with workflow and increase productivity. Barcode scanners include:
1D, 2D, and QR codes,
Barcode readers compatible with iPhone, iPad, and Android devices
Laser, USB, Bluetooth, cordless, portable, wireless, handheld, tablet, in-counter, grocery, and barcode computer labels for computer equipment
Inventory Management Systems – Technology has made it possible to pair inventory software with barcode scanners, printers, and labels for a complete inventory tracking system. Now you can:
Design your own inventory & shipping labels,
Conduct audits on a mobile computer,
Automate the check-out and check-in of assets to ensure no assets get misplaced,
Track inventory by site, location, serial number, lot, date, or pallet
Application of a tailor-made RFID inventory management system

Benefits of Properly Labelled Data Centre & IT Equipment

Faster Troubleshooting

The most effective way of tracking inventory or equipment is using a reliable labelling system. Labelling makes tracing and troubleshooting faster by telling you exactly what you’re looking at, and what it’s connected to.

Providing a visual listing of information will direct you to the cables and components that can be traced back to specific floors and rooms for proper support and faster maintenance. Quickly identifying information eases problem-solving, as well as accommodating fast repairs.

Reduces Downtime

Clearly labelling cables and connectivity can prevent accidental outages caused by human error which contributes to 88% of power outages caused by moving wrong components.

Save Costs

Sever labels, such as data centre barcode labels, save time and upfront cost by cutting down labour expenses when changes or repairs are being made.

Lost and Found

Barcode labels for computer equipment prevent retail inventory loss. They helps us plan and execute inventory control by improving business performance. This system lets one set stock thresholds levels that automatically generates purchase order receipts for asset renewal.

Ultimately, it optimizes inventory stock by streamlining warehouse management for easy tool retrieval, accurate depiction of consumption rates, and a higher rate of inventory turnover.

Prevent Theft

Theft is a common cause of retail inventory loss. If there is no security instrument designed to record asset ownership, it will result to high instances of loss through theft or misplacement.

Complete Asset Tracking and Inventory Control

IT asset tracking systems are important for adequately identifying network problems, securing the correct replacement parts, and coordinating all the activities involved in keeping this complex system running effectively.

Best Practices Guide: Leak Detection and Repair (LDAR)

Published: 11/01/201902/10/2023

LDAR

Due to the emission of volatile hazardous air pollutants by leaking machineries or equipment, such as connectors, valves and pumps, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) thought it wise to enact the Leak Detection and Repair (LDAR) system in order to identify and repair leaking equipment or machines in chemical manufacturing and petroleum refining industries. The LDAR system procedures, like the Method 21 analyzer calibration and monitoring procedures are to be followed by specifically selected technicians and managers to curb the emission of these volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by the industrial machinery.

LDAR Definition

An LDAR is a procedure program instituted by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to control the emission of volatile hazardous air pollutants (VHAPs) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted from some industrial equipment. It is a procedure program used by facilities for leak detection and repair of leaking equipment or machinery that include; connectors, valves, pumps, agitators and compressors, thereby, minimizing the emission of these VOCs and VHAPs. The EPA ensures operation and application of the LDAR program in many chemical manufacturing and petroleum refining industries, and due to the implementation of the EPA program, different sizes of facilities have been successfully reviewed.

Why Regulate Equipment Leaks?

Accordance to the findings gotten by the EPA, it was stated that the release of VOCs and VHAPs in the atmosphere is as a result of leaking industrial equipment, such as steam traps, valves, connectors, and the likes. Also, the amount of air pollutants emitted by these types of machinery is around 70,367 tons each year of VOCs and approximately 9,357 tons each year of VHAPs. The findings also state that the emission of these gases contributes largely to the formation of ozone on ground-level, which is one primary contributing factor of smog and respiratory disease, especially in children and asthmatics. Some other supposed problems caused by the emission of these air pollutants are; birth defects, cancer, and reproductive effects. Many locations in the United States, especially those areas where these pieces of machinery are used do not get up to the National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) for ozone. Some very frequently emitted VHAPs include benzene, naphthalene, xylene, chloride, toluene, acetaldehyde, methylene, and formaldehyde.

Sources, Causes and Control of Equipment Leaks

Several sources are responsible for the emission of hazardous air pollutants from industrial machinery. Here are some major sources/causes of equipment leaks:

Pumps – function as transporters of fluids
Valves – valves acts as a control to the flow of the fluids
Connectors – connectors are used to merge process and piping machinery
Compressors – these components are responsible for the increase in pressure of the fluids
Pressure Relief Devices – they are designed to prevent equipment from going above its normal working pressure
Open-ended Lines – these lines are hoses or pipes that are open to the surrounding environment

All the stated components can cause the release of these harmful gases in one way or another. For example, the leaks from valves often take place when there is a failure in valve O-ring or packing.

Control of Equipment Leaks

The curbing of the emission of these VHAPs due to leaking equipment can be done through the implementation of the LDAR tags or by customizing/changing leaking machines with ‘Leakless’ components. Usually, leaks caused by compressors, open-ended lines, and sampling connections can be tackled by just customizing the machine or component. Also, the use of valve tags, stream trap tags, sealless pumps, and leakless valves can minimize or completely put an end to leaks in industrial equipment or machinery.

Benefits of an LDAR Program

The EPA estimated about 63% of the emission of VHAPs from leaking equipment could be reduced by implementing the LDAR program. According to the EPA, chemical manufacturing industries could control the emission of VOCs up to 56% by employing the use of LDRA programs. Here are five benefits of implementing an LDAR program:

Minimization of product losses in chemical manufacturing and petroleum refining industry
Maximized safety of workers and operators in facilities
Reduction in the exposure to hazardous gases for the neighbouring community and employees
Potential reduction in emission fees of the facility
Lessens the need for setting Compliance and Enforcement National Properties for harmful air

Essential LDAR Planning Steps / Elements

Seeing that the emission and leak detection and repair program is pretty complex in nature, facilities can follow these five basic steps/elements in carrying out the implementation of an LDAR program:

Identifying Components

It is necessary for each regulating component to have a specific ID number and identified the location. A machinery log containing information on newly added equipment, equipment is taken out, and replacement parts should always undergo maintenance. Also, using ID tags on the various components can go a long way in identifying components.

Leak Definition

The unit for measuring leak definition is parts per million (ppm). It is the measurement of the concentration that has gone beyond the accepted threshold of relevant regulations. There are different levels of accepted thresholds in a different state and federal regulations, and the accepted threshold is based on the industry. Due to the confusion, multiple regulations may pose in a particular facility. The EPA suggests that defining leaks should be at a lower level compared to the standard threshold of every applied regulation.

Monitoring Components

According to the EPA, the acceptable method used to monitor components leak detection purpose is the EPA Reference Method 21. This method periodically assesses the weekly, monthly, quarterly, or annually emission of air pollutants.

Repairing Components

Repairing components require regulatory guidelines in order to fix a deadline by which the component responsible for the leak is to be fixed. This deadline can range between a few days and many weeks. But it is recommended that detected leaks should be repaired within the first five days after leak detection and within fifteen days after every failed attempt. The facility can apply other regulations set accepted repair practices like packing gland nuts or tightening bonnet bolts. And if properly documented and warranted, the equipment can be placed on a DOR (Delay of Repair) list if the equipment needs to be shut down before repair can take place.

Recordkeeping

It is required in LDAR regulations that a huge amount of information on each regulated part be documented and preserved by the right information. The use of an Asset Management system will make data collection less expensive, faster, and more precise.

Implementing all five elements will reduce the man-hour requirements as well as overhead costs, which will, in turn, minimize complexity and ensure compliance. The compliance cost of a facility can be reduced by employing the asset management system to focus on automatic capturing of data with leak detection and repair tags.

Method 21 – Volatile Organic Compound Leaks

The application of the Method 21 – Volatile Organic Compound Leaks of the EPA regulations will help facilities determine the leaking of VOC from process machinery. The primary sources of leaks include, but are restricted to, flanges, valves, pumps, connections, compressors, process drains, pressure-relief devices, open-ended valves, dressing vents system of the compressor and pump seal, agitator seals, access door seal and accumulator vessel vents.

Yielding to the necessities of the Method 21 will improve the information derived from air pollutant sampling practice.

Method 21 helps in classifying and locating leaks only. It’s not a method used for the straight measurement of mass emission ratio gotten out of separate sources.

Identifying / Monitoring Components

The following can be employed in facilities to identify or monitor components and prevent leaks in equipment or machinery:

Unique Barcoded LDAR tag

Unique Barcoded LDAR tag functions as a monitoring tool for repairmen and field technicians. Using the barcoded LDAR tags, they can monitor the rate at which VHAPs and VOCs are emitted from process equipment used in various chemical manufacturing and petroleum refining processes. LDAR technicians can successfully monitor and conform with the regulations of the EPA if they follow the LDAR monitoring techniques and calibration procedures duly.

Potential Leak Sources

Several sources are responsible for the emission of hazardous air pollutants from industrial machinery. They include:

Flanges, valves, pumps, connections, compressors, process drains, pressure-relief devices, open-ended valves, dressing vents system of the compressor and pump seal, agitator seals, access door seal and accumulator vessel vents.

All the stated components can cause the release of these harmful gases in one way or another. For example, the leaks from valves often take place when there is a failure in valve O-ring or packing.

Repair

Repairing components require regulatory guidelines to fix a deadline by which the component responsible for the leak is to be fixed. This deadline can range between a few days and many weeks. But it is recommended that detected leaks should be repaired within the first five days after leak detection and within fifteen days after every failed attempt. The facility can apply other regulations set accepted repair practices like packing gland nuts or tightening bonnet bolts. And if properly documented and warranted, the equipment can be placed on a DOR (Delay of Repair) list if the equipment needs to be shut down before repair can take place.

Recordkeeping

Essential Technology

Labels – Mobile Printers or Custom Printers
Scanners
Inventory Management System

Benefits of Properly Implemented LDAR Program

Here are five benefits of a properly implemented LDAR program:

Maximized safety of workers and operators in facilities
Lessens the need for setting Compliance and Enforcement National Properties for harmful air
Minimization of product losses in chemical manufacturing and petroleum refining industry
Potential reduction in emission fees of the facility
Reduction in the exposure to hazardous gases for the neighboring community and employees

How to Label a Warehouse

From being an underrated principle in warehouse management, warehouse location has inevitably become of great importance in ensuring efficiency of warehouse operations. Without learning the fundamentals of Warehouse Management Systems, you could invest a lot of money on warehouse designs and it would all end up in shambles. Warehouse labeling systems ensure a great load…

How to Label a Warehouse

Published: 11/01/201902/10/2023

Warehouse

Warehouse Best Practices

Warehouse location labeling greatly involves a lot of attention to details, hence, that makes it a tricky business. However, there a few industry standards one should follow to avoid errors and potential confusion from the pickers.

Shelves should be numbered from the ground up. This makes it easier to add more height to your shelves as you grow, and also eliminates the possibility of relabeling your shelves.
To allow the system to accurately read locations alphanumerically, it is best advisable to use a zero in all numbers less than ten (i.e., 01, 02, 03, 04).
Consistency. Lack of consistency in labeling is an easy way to screw up your system and employees.

To save a lot of time, and money on the long run, it is best to keep these practices in mind.

Essential Warehouse Planning Steps

If you’re currently in the process of planning a new warehouse or distribution center or expanding your current facility, there are several key preparation steps to keep in mind to ensure that your warehouse labels and signs meet your needs.

Your label manufacturer should be included on the project planning team. Poor preparation inevitably leads to errors, or rush production charges. However, to avoid this, don’t wait too long to plan for your barcode location labels and signs.
Order the right barcode signs and labels for your environment and technology. The following should be considered:

What type of scanning technology would be used?
What kind of surfaces would the labels be applied on?
Would vertical location rack labels be used?
What sort of operation would be used?

Bulk storage locations and signage needs should be identified. This involves a careful survey and analysis of your floor plan to know how many bulk storages would be needed, and how they could be identified.
Ensure your racking and facility are ready for labeling. The racks should be cleaned to avoid dirt and dust, which can diminish a label’s adhesive property. Facility and equipment access should also be considered, as well as power availability.
Preprinted LPN Labels should be ordered in advance. Preprinted LPNs are typically less costly than labels printed in-house. LPN labels will undoubtedly be of great significance in your warehouse as it efficiently identifies pallets, cases, cartons, totes and other movable units.

Label Locations / Applications

Multi-level racks: Warehouse rack labels are used to streamline workflow by making items and sections easier to identify for employees. They help identify the right products for inventory management, storing, and shipping purposes. As with most rack labels, multi-level racks are a type of rack labels, that can easily be color coded for identification, and they can also be placed on aisles for easy accessibility.
Shelves: The common and preferred method of warehouse shelf labeling is by section. Each shelf within a unit should count up from one and continue numerically until you reach the end of a shelf aisles. Depending on the warehouse, you could decide to put your shelf value in the last position of your location code.
Floor Tags: Warehouse floor labels are manufactured to survive heavy floor traffic. These floor tags are durable, and are ideal for large warehouses with several rooms. They can be easily installed, and moreover, can be customized into any shape, length, size and are designed to withstand solvents, oil and other contaminants.
Warning and hazard signs: For safety, warehouse signs can help point out hazards to employees working in the plant. Since most warehouse workers operate heavy machinery and have to maneuver through sharp corners and aisles, the importance of warehouse signs can’t be overemphasized. Employees should be well-oriented and should be familiar with the proper procedures and potential hazards within the warehouse, and these safety signs are helpful for notifying workers of forklift safety warnings, clearance height and capacity alerts, quality-control warnings, and safety reminders.
Forklifts: Immensely essential in warehouse operations, forklifts can be used to stack materials (both the small and the more massive ones) in places that are not easily accessible by humans. Aside from carrying goods and materials, forklifts can also be used to transport large and hefty equipment.
Pallets: The use of pallets in warehouse management has proven to be an effective way to handle and store materials. It makes loading and unloading the goods an easy task, and serves mainly as the base of the goods when transporting them. Pallets are available in different sizes and shapes to match the requirement of the cargo.
Bins & totes: Bins and totes are containers which are mainly used for the storage and handling of parts and materials in warehouses. Totes are portable, box-type containers that may collapse to conserve space when not in use, while bins have a slightly opened end which aids in easy removal of its contents without moving the bin from its position on the shelf or rack. These bins should be properly identified with barcode labels to help employees easily locate items.

Types of Warehouse Labels

Barcode warehouse labels play a critical role in efficiently running a warehouse.

Magnetic Labels: For warehouses that regularly reconfigure their rack locations, the most popular choice are magnetic location labels. They can be manufactured in a wide range of color and sizes, and are easy to place and move, and moreover, durable.
Removable Labels: For warehouses that regularly carry out reconfigurations, removable label racks make it easy for relabeling rack locations. They are simple to install, and as with other label options, they can be designed in different sizes.
Permanent adhesive: Most permanent adhesive labels are applied on materials that require a one-time label. Permanent adhesives create a strong bond between the label and the surface. However, it is worth noting that no label is completely permanent as, time, moisture, and environmental conditions such as heat, cold, solvents would diminish the effectiveness of the adhesive.
Retro-reflective: Retro reflective labels have a layer of microscopic glass beads allowing for the light to directly bounce back to the scanner. This ensures quick and effective barcode scans.
Long-range: Long-range labels can be scanned up to 45 feet away. They are specifically used to solve challenges of stock locations that are difficult to label.
Signs: Warehouses operate effectively when there are signs to direct traffic, warn employees of hazards, provide instructions, and assist with organization. These visual cues provide people with the necessary information they need, to perform tasks quickly and effectively.

Essential Warehouse Technology

In order to efficiently run a warehouse, several essential technologies should be put in place to ensure effectiveness and save time.

Labels – mobile printers or custom manufactured labels.
Scanners: Barcode scanners allow employees to locate inventory, pick inventory when it is needed, and conduct cycle counts. Scanners with mobile computing facilitates more visibility of their inventory. The scanners increase efficiency by creating a mobile interface for picking orders and receiving inventory. Handheld devices are of great use because of their portability and relatively long range. A long range scanner is beneficial when accessing products stored on racks because theses scanners can reach the barcodes on any shelf. These scanners offer real time wireless data capture, which saves time.
Inventory management system: At its core, an inventory system functions by tracking two main components of your warehouse — receiving (incoming) and shipping (outgoing). An inventory system also includes tracking movement, relocation, raw materials (decremented) and finished goods (incremented). Physical inventory counts could also be done for accurate tracking of inventory levels as well. The goal of the Inventory System is to accurately know current inventory levels and minimize understock and overstock situations. It is worth noting that having a proper inventory system can help in the growth of your business by, avoiding stock issues, maintaining stock levels and automated reordering.

Benefits of a Properly Labeled Warehouse

The advantages of having a properly labeled warehouse includes:

Automated picking & fulfillment: a properly labeled warehouse leads to high efficiency, which in turn leads to fulfillment of the employees, and satisfaction of the customers when their products are delivered on time.
Complete inventory tracking and asset control: You get to track the movement of materials coming into the warehouse, as well as materials leaving the warehouse. This is a hallmark of efficiency as it eliminates overstock and understock situations.
Leverage emerging IT technologies: A properly labeled warehouse maximizes the use of IT technologies in warehouse management efficiency.

No matter the size of your warehouse, selecting the right labeling plan is critical as it plays a great role on the effectiveness of your firm. In order to carefully pick the right one that works for you, it is best to always make an assessment of the infrastructure and organizational plan of your warehouse. As you have noticed, choosing the best warehouse labels could be a tricky business.

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Published: 10/21/201903/21/2024

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Guide to Custom Barcode Labels

Barcode Durability Our barcodes are built to withstand: Prolonged exposure to UV radiation Caustic solvents & chemicals Repeated abrasion Extreme temperatures Multiple freeze / thaw cycles Moisture & salt spray Barcode Symbologies Any linear or 2D barcode symbology can be used, including: Code 39 Code 128 QR Code DataMatrix Barcode Materials All manufacturing processes and…

Guide to Custom Barcode Labels

Published: 09/23/201902/10/2023

Barcode Labels & Asset Tags

Barcode Durability

Our barcodes are built to withstand:

Prolonged exposure to UV radiation
Caustic solvents & chemicals
Repeated abrasion
Extreme temperatures
Multiple freeze / thaw cycles
Moisture & salt spray

Barcode Symbologies

Any linear or 2D barcode symbology can be used, including:

Code 39
Code 128
QR Code
DataMatrix

Barcode Materials

All manufacturing processes and materials are critical in forming a premium barcodes.

Aluminum – anodized aluminum barcode labels are printed with an ultra-durable sub-surface image. Barcode and graphics are photo-imaged, dyed, and sealed within the anodic aluminum surface for extraordinary performance and extended durability in the harshest environments.
Polyester – DuraPoly™ polyeser barcode labels are second-surface printed on the underside of the label surface for extended durability. Metalized polyester barcode labels are printed on metallic polyester for an attractive finish. Standard polyester labels are surface-printed for economical identification.
Stainless Steel – stainless steel barcode labels & tags are laser-marked or chemically-etched & filled out of corrosion-resistant stainless steel alloy 304 or 316. Stainless steel barcode labels & tags provide aesthetic barcode identification for rugged industrial environments.
Ceramic – ceramic barcode labels provide the ultimate durability against acids, alkalies, and high temperatures. A rugged borosilicate glass ceramic coating is fused to a stainless steel backing to produce this premium product.
Vinyl – vinyl barcode labels are printed on premium vinyl with permanent pressure sensitive adhesive backing. Vinyl barcode labels provide economical barcode identification in mild indoor environments.

How to design custom barcode labels?

The easiest way to design custom barcode labels is through our Universal Designer, where you can specify every label element, including size, text, logo, background, corner radius, hole diameter and placement, and data sequence. You may also submit an engineered drawing or call to speak with one of our design specialists. Our design team and 30+ years of industry experience allow Express to evaluate business needs and develop lasting identification solutions for large-scale deployment.

What factors to consider when choosing custom barcode labels?

Environmental Resistance – what type of conditions will your barcode label have to endure? Express manufactures barcode labels to withstand prolonged exposure to UV radiation, caustic chemicals, repeated abrasion, extreme temperatures, multiple freeze / thaw cycles, moisture, salt spray, and other environmental challenges.
Surface – what type of surface will your label adhere to? Smooth and clean surfaces are best for adhesion. Rough surfaces are more challenging and barcode labels may need to be attached with rivets or screws. The surface material is an important consideration because metal and plastic surfaces have different adhesion characteristics.
Size – barcode label size and X-dimension are critical to ensure barcode integrity and machine readability. In a linear 1D barcode (Code 39 or Code 128), the X-dimension refers to the width of the narrowest bar in the symbol. In a 2D symbol (Data Matrix or QR Code), the X-dimension refers to the height and width measurement of one cell (square element). Express has standard X-dimensions and can advise on the proper label size to ensure barcode quality and integrity.

Benefits of Custom Barcode Labels

Eliminate human error
Extremely versatility
Capture better data
Drive business efficiency

7 Benefits of Barcode Labels

Published: 09/09/201902/10/2023

Barcode Labels & Asset Tags

Barcode labels are usually shrugged off as just being a way to cut costs. In reality, these labels are more than a simple business approach in order to save time and money. Barcodes have a ton of benefits that can improve business’s outlook on the future. Not only do barcodes eliminate human error, but they can also reduce training time, are inexpensive, versatile, have more accurate data and better workplace efficiency. This article takes a closer look at how exactly barcodes are used to help a company grow.

1. Eliminates Human Error

Barcode labels can completely eliminate even the slightest possibility of human error. Without barcodes, data is entered manually, making it easier to enter incorrect information into the system. This risk is very high when manually entering data compared to using barcodes. A barcode scan is fast, has reliable data, and takes far less time to record than if you were to enter it by hand. There’s no way anyone would want to go back to manual data entering with the elimination of all human error.

2. Reduces Training Time

By using a barcode system, employee training time can virtually be cut in half. It is much easier to learn how to train with barcodes over correctly entering data manually. A handheld scanner is used to read barcodes, which means employees don’t need to be familiar with the entire inventory of a warehouse, or any specific pricing procedures.

This reduction in training time also makes employee training less expensive. For any training, employees must be paid as they are still completing work-related tasks. The time spent to train employees is now eliminated, meaning that you won’t have to pay that employee or the one training them for their extra time. Instead, they will be able to learn the system quickly and be able to operate it with ease almost immediately.

3. Inexpensive

Barcodes are surprisingly very inexpensive to design and print off. You can get multiple designs, including ones with your company logo. The different finishes and materials will help to make your brand stand out compared to others in the same business. Regardless of their sole purpose, these cost-effective asset labels are economically the right choice as opposed to buying more expensive options like spreadsheets to enter work manually.

4. More Accurate Data

Barcode labels are far more accurate than manually entered data. This is because there is less room for error when using a barcode system. A single barcode can be created for inventory and pricing information, which means that by scanning the same barcode will allow you to access both of these types of data.

An even easier way to get more accurate data is by customizing barcodes to include relevant information. This essentially means that barcodes can have any information you need it to have and have it provided to you in an efficient manner. Barcode systems can have more capabilities by being used for a variety of applications over just basic information.

5. Improved Workplace Efficiency

Since a barcode system has easily legible identification labels, workplace efficiency can improve greatly. These barcodes make it possible to track any inventory, so that inventory is as accurate as it can be. When these inventory levels are achieved more quickly, the lower the overhead.

With a more efficient system in place, the equipment can also be tracked easier. This can reduce the amount of time spent searching for a specific piece of equipment. Using the barcoding system, you will be able to find the location of the equipment easier. You will be to save money by not having to replace equipment that might have been deemed lost before.

6. Versatile

As mentioned earlier, barcodes are extremely versatile since they can be used for all kinds of data collection. This can include doing inventory using barcodes, or having pricing information attached to them. Ultimately, it’s up to the business to decide what a barcoding system will best be used for.

Barcodes can also adhere to most surfaces, as the sticky underside makes it the optimal choice for warehouse use. Since they can be attached to multiple surfaces, they can tack not only inventory, but any equipment of shipments entering and exiting the warehouse in a more efficient manner. This means any valve tags heading out of the warehouse can be marked accordingly, making easier to find later on.

7. Faster Data

Data can be obtained far faster using a barcode system than manually entered data. The information collected by scanning barcodes is then transmitted directly to your company’s central computer. There, the information is stored until you need to access it. Instead of having to search through hundreds of thousands of documents to find the manually entered data, with barcodes you can access information almost instantaneously. This means that no data will be lost and the quick turnaround makes for far less wasted time.

Considering the data is received faster than before, barcodes can now promote much more efficient decision making. Making more informed decisions on pole tags can help your company save more time, and ultimately more money.

The benefits of using a barcode system are truly endless. They provide faster data, improve overall workplace efficiency, save you time and money, and can also be used for a variety of different applications within your company. Barcode labels can include specific information for these applications that will make your workplace run smoother than ever before. From pricing to inventory, and everything in between, a barcoding system is the right choice for your business in terms of growth moving forward.

New Asset Tag Designer

Many of our customers have requested the ability to design their own asset tags and easily buy them online. We have listened, and are pleased to introduce Express Design & Buy. Please visit our site often; we will be adding more product categories to the Express Design & Buy family. Design and Buy Asset Tags…

New Asset Tag Designer

Published: 09/09/201903/21/2024

In the News

Many of our customers have requested the ability to design their own asset tags and easily buy them online. We have listened, and are pleased to introduce Express Design & Buy.

Please visit our site often; we will be adding more product categories to the Express Design & Buy family.

Design and Buy Asset Tags Now

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Free Expedite Token

Published: 07/15/201902/10/2023

In the News

FREE Expedite!!!

Valid Forever | Valued at $250 – $1,500

Schedule a 15 minute product R&D call with Express and receive a FREE Expedite!!

Contact marketing@expresscorp.com

We know project deadlines are tight — use this FREE Expedite as your ‘get our of jail free card’ the next time you’re in a bind.