Instrument Engineer's Handbook: Process Control and Optimization

The three volumes of this reference are devoted to measurement, control, and digital networks and software systems (they appear at different times and are sold separately). Both hardware and control strategies are covered in this volume, with extensive treatment of transmitters, controllers, control valves, and displays. There are eight major divisions, broken down into smaller chapters, with a detailed table of contents provided at the start of each division. The section on the control and optimization of unit operations features 41 chapters, with topics that include chiller control, cooling tower control, ORP controls, pump controls, rolling mill controls, and water supply plant controls, demonstrating the range of applications of the field. Each chapter begins with a partial list of suppliers, among other information. The ten appendices include engineering conversion factors, chemical resistance of materials, steam and water tables, friction loss in pipes, and tank volumes. Liptak, who has had a hand in writing and editing these handbooks since their inception in 1969, provides an introduction describing recent issues and developments in the field. Annotation c2005 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)