Abstract: An algae resistant roofing material includes a portion that is normally exposed when the roofing material is installed on a roof. The exposed portion of the roofing material includes a substrate coated with a coating. The coating includes an upper surface that is positioned above the substrate when the roofing material is installed on the roof. The roofing material also includes an application of metallic particles applied to the upper surface of the coating. The metallic particles include at least one ingredient that inhibits the growth of algae. The metallic particles have a large surface area characterized by at least one of the following: (a) a mean Particle Irregularity Factor of at least 1.5; (b) a mean apparent density of not greater than 3.5 g/cm3; and (c) a mean specific surface area of at least 0.02 m2/g.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for monitoring the status of at least one steam trap includes at least one monitor including at least one sensor for sensing at least one process condition of the steam trap; at least one means for calculating an average of the at least one monitored process condition; and, at least one transmitter for transmitting at least one signal responsive to the averaged monitored process condition.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for monitoring the status of a steam trap include a device for sensing a process condition of the steam trap and a device for processing the sensed condition. The apparatus can include a processor positioned on a steam trap. The connection of the monitoring device to the steam trap can be to the trap itself or to an adjacent pipe or other apparatus.