Industrial Factory Automation

ABB Drive PC Tools - Startup & Maintenance - DriveWindow Light

2012-01-27T09:07:00.000-08:00

DriveWindow Light is an easy to use software tool used throughout the drive’s life cycle for startup, monitoring, and performance tuning. DriveWindow Light’s sequence programming tool helps users quickly build and edit sequence programs.

A tool for the entire life cycle
DriveWindow Light makes starting-up and maintaining drives easy and efficient. The tool allows users to monitor a drive’s parameters and signals, and even to control the drive from a PC. The tool also has an I/O mapping table for quickly viewing the drive’s input and output configuration.

Online and offline setup
Using the tool in its offline mode allows users to configure parameters for drives while not being connected to the drive, such as in an office. The parameter browser shows all of the parameters and allows direct editing of individual parameter values.

Configuration wizards for quick setup
DriveWindow Light provides confi guration wizards that ensure all necessary parameters for a particular setup are displayed. Using the confi guration wizards saves time and improves quality since all of the parameters needed for a task are grouped together. A startup wizard walks users through the setup of a new drive. Wizards are available to assist with:

− Language settings
− Motor settings
− Application configuration
− Option modules
− PID control
− Speed controls
− Start and stop settings
− Protections
− Output signal settings

Reaping the Benefits of Phased Array NDT

2012-01-27T09:02:00.001-08:00

Sonatest & Phoenix partner products to save you time, yield excellent results and improve safety!

Building on the recent launch of Sonatest’s new Phased Array ultrasonic flaw detector, the veo 16:64 has made significant inroads into many of its key application markets, one of which is Pipe and Pipeline Weld Inspection.

Ultrasonic Phased Array technology is fast becoming the established method for advanced NDT testing applications allowing operators to have greater control over testing parameters, enhancing defect detection, using real-time results, whilst increasing the speed of testing procedures and improving site health and safety.

Weld inspection and crack detection are key application areas for phased array ultrasonic testing and are requirements within the industries of tube and pipe manufacture, pipeline construction and maintenance. Within these sectors Phased Array is also used to test for remaining wall thickness and pipe wall corrosion.

The Sonatest veo 16:64 is a fully capable Phased Array Flaw Detector including features such as the 3D Scanplan, TCG/ACG and fast A-Scan recording and full data capture. Two separate conventional channels provide the end user with simultaneous Phased Array and TOFD scanning to speed inspection and ensuring improved defect characterisation. The veo enclosure has been designed to withstand the tough environments in which NDT inspections are carried out, achieving IP66 standard for water and dust ingress and employing internal shock mounts to withstand impacts.

Further outstanding results can be gained by operators in pipe and pipeline inspection by using phased array instrumentation together with Automated Scanners. Working alongside Phoenix Inspection Systems, who design bespoke NDT Systems for a global client base, the Sonatest veo can be partnered with several of the scanners, from their comprehensive range, to provide a complete solution for pipework phased array inspections.

The Magman, from Phoenix ISL, is a market leading scanner in the application of both longitudinal and circumferential pipeline inspection. This scanner is highly versatile and is capable of inspecting pipes down to a 50mm outside diameter. Using four independent magnetic wheels and capable of carrying up to 12 probes, the Magman Scanner enables rapid, efficient and versatile scanning. Employing this partnership of products yields a dramatic reduction in inspection times and the increased safety of operators is greatly enhanced over traditional testing techniques, such as X-Ray.

Other scanners that partner well with the veo16:64, for pipe inspection, include the Bracelet Scanner which is a low profile small bore scanner, the MultiMag and the MagScan are ideal for scanning pipes and curved surfaces and are suitable for phased array techniques, TOFD and corrosion mapping.

Sonatest Ltd and Phoenix ISL are able to provide consultation and advice for clients on all testing and inspection application challenges, and are able provide bespoke solutions within the field of Phased Array and other NDT techniques.

“Rolling in Results” with the New Corrosion Mapping Scanning Solution from Sonatest Ltd.

2012-01-27T09:01:00.001-08:00

Introducing the Veo & Corrosion WheelProbe Scanning System Building on the proven success of Corrosion WheelProbe a new semi-automated solution for corrosion mapping applications has been developed by Sonatest Ltd; the Veo & Corrosion WheelProbe (CWP) Scanning system. The CWP Scanner is a new enhancement in response to clients’ requests, providing an easier, semi-automated way of providing 100% coverage.

The system as a whole consists of the veo 16:64, a phased array flaw detector, a 64 element Corrosion WheelProbe and a CWP scanner. The Corrosion Wheel Probe is a tried and tested solution for corrosion mapping by many leading companies in the Pipeline and Oil & Gas sectors, hence the development of this system.

The scan width of a Corrosion WheelProbe (CWP) is close to 50mm in one pass and it can be used on pipe diameters from 4 - 42 inches. Importantly the conformable tyre allows excellent coupling to rough surfaces, and the design allows for consistent reliable inspection in both depth and amplitude. This amplitude mode enhances the possibility of finding small pit type defects, which normally do not give a good ultrasonic response, however results show excellent indications of internal condition. The CWP is fitted to an adjustable connector, equipped with a second encoder, which allows for multiple adjacent scans with a good overlap for complete coverage.

The distinct advantage of the CWP Scanning System is in the relative simplicity and complete autonomy from the need for additional power sources on the inspection site. Ease of portability along with the speed of set-up and deployment is also a key advantage for the end user in the field.

This Veo & CWP scanning system additionally gives the flexibility of utilising the CWP on a completely manual basis for small area scans, such as for screening of pipe work of vessels (where LRUT has been used) or for (with certain limitations) scanning along the length (Axial) of the pipe.

The CWP Scanning System and accessories will be showing at the following UK shows; Offshore Europe 2011 Exhibition, 6-8 September, Aberdeen and at the Materials Testings Exhibition and Conference, 13-15 September, Telford.

VEO and UTStudio 3.2.0 Release - New C-Scan Capability - Available Now.

2012-01-27T09:00:00.000-08:00

The latest software version for the VEO is now available, including upgraded UT Studio. The capability of this product is continuously growing. Updates now avilable t enhamce Corrosion Mapping and Composite Inspection.

Corrosion and Composite inspection is now made easy with the new upgraded of VEO and UTStudio software, enabled by the introduction of C-Scan functionality.

The highlights of latest release includes:

C-Scan (available in acquisition and in analysis VEO and UTStudio):

C-Scans are allowed with L-Scan type primary scan
C-Scans are created using datasets defined by gates

Merged Top and Merged C-Scan view with no added fees (available in analysis on VEO and UTStudio)
New language introduction (Chinese, Spanish)
Enhanced menu structure (simplified and user customizable with collapsible Menus)
Gate trigger indicators are drawn for each gate (flank or peak).
TOFD becomes a reselling optional feature. All units already delivered keep it when upgrading. Enable in Preferences/Add Options
And more thant 25 other features or enhancement

Carestream Health Confirms Business as Usual for Kodak Industrex Product Supply

2012-01-27T08:58:00.001-08:00

Carestream Health is an independent global company formed in May 2007 and owned by Onex Corporation, one of North America’s oldest and most successful private equity firms. We are a leading provider of dental products, medical imaging systems and healthcare IT solutions—as well as advanced molecular imaging systems and proven products for the non-destructive testing market.

We are a strong, stable, privately owned company—and we are not affiliated with Kodak.
Kodak’s filing for bankruptcy protection does not affect our company and it does not impact our ability to serve our customers.

Carestream has world-class operations in 40 locations with 7,000 dedicated employees serving customers in more than 150 countries around the world. We are solely responsible for the design, manufacture and service of all our products. Our local representatives are available to discuss more detailed questions about our products, systems and services.

NI Calibration Services Austin Now Accredited for ISO 17025 Calibration

2012-01-27T08:56:00.001-08:00

National Instruments today announced that its NI Calibration Services Austin headquarters has been accredited by the American Association for Laboratory Accreditation (A2LA) to provide calibration for ISO/IEC 17025:2005, one of the most rigorous international calibration standards in the industry. The accreditation recognizes NI’s commitment to excellence in quality and customer service and extends the company’s investment in PXI-based test and measurement offerings. The company’s new ISO 17025 accredited calibration service is ideal for the ever-growing field of engineers standardizing their automated test systems on the PXI modular instrumentation platform, which offers some of the most advanced technology possible to address demanding engineering challenges.

For companies subject to government regulation – including OEMs that develop medical devices, transportation products and electronics – as well as multinational corporations looking for a single quality benchmark, ISO 17025 provides the most highly recognized global standard for calibration. The ISO 17025 accredited calibration service, which also complies with the ANSI/NCSL Z540-1-1994 standard, helps any organization that needs its PXI instrumentation certified for compliance with rigorous quality standards.

National Instruments Announces Test Solution for 802.11ac WLAN

2012-01-27T08:54:00.001-08:00

National Instruments today announced early access support for testing next-generation 802.11ac WLAN chipsets and devices. This announcement exemplifies how NI’s modular, software-defined wireless test platform continually expands to address the latest cellular and wireless connectivity standards including 802.11ac.

NI’s 802.11ac WLAN test solution provides flexibility in testing 802.11ac devices in addition to testing 802.11a/b/g/n devices. It works with a wide range of signal bandwidths including 20, 40, 80 and 80+80 160 MHz for both Tx and Rx for up to 4x4 MIMO configurations.

The NI test platform now supports testing of 802.11ac Tx and Rx wireless local area network (WLAN) chipsets and devices, up to 4x4 MIMO and 256 QAM
NI will be demonstrating its latest mobile device test solution at the Mobile World Congress trade show
The new NI 802.11ac test solution integrates with NI LabVIEW system design software to increase test throughput while decreasing system cost

5522A Multi-Product Calibrator

2012-01-27T08:52:00.001-08:00

The 5522A Multi-Product Calibrator addresses a wide calibration workload and comes with internal and external protection features that protect it against damage and make it easier to transport for on-site or mobile calibration. The 5522A can also be fully automated with MET/CAL® Plus Calibration Management Software. It is the ideal calibrator for metrology professionals who need to calibrate many different types of electronic equipment and want a transportable instrument that offers them a high return on investment.

The 5522A sources direct voltage and current, alternating voltage and current with multiple waveforms and harmonics, two simultaneous voltage outputs or voltage and current to simulate dc and ac power with phase control, resistance, capacitance, thermocouples and RTDs. The 5522A can also measure thermocouple temperature, and pressure using one of 29 Fluke 700 Series pressure modules. Two options add the capability to calibrate oscilloscopes either 600 MHz or 1.1 GHz. And the 5520A-PQ Power Quality Option enables the 5522A to calibrate power quality instrumentation to the standards of the IEC and other regulatory agencies.
The 5522A calibrator covers many of the electronic test tools you use to keep your company up and running, including:

Handheld and bench meters (analog and digital) up to 6 ½ digits
Current clamps and clamp meters
Thermocouples and RTDs
Process calibrators
Data loggers
Strip and chart recorders
Watt meters
Power harmonics analyzers
Panel meters
Graphical multimeters
Power quality analyzers (with option)
Analog or digital handheld and bench oscilloscopes to 600 MHz or 1.1 GHz (with options)
and more, including pressure gauges and transducers and three-phase power meters

CLV IR Window for Indoor Low Voltage

2012-01-27T08:51:00.001-08:00

Increase the safety and speed of infrared inspections with Fluke IR Windows. Why open panel doors and increase arc flash risk when you don’t have to? Stay protected, scan in minutes and scan more often – both visually and in infrared.

Low voltage does not mean low danger. CLV provides a heightened level of arc flash protection during IR inspections of low voltage equipment up to 600V.

Fluke CLV IR Windows are available in a 3 diameter and are UL50V and UL1558 certified.

Fluke 481 Radiation Detection Meter

2012-01-27T08:49:00.001-08:00

The Fluke 481 Radiation Survey Meter is a portable and practical means for identifying irradiated goods, and for helping remediate contamination and safety issues while minimally impacting operations.

The Fluke 481 Radiation Detection Meter is a portable and practical means for discovering irradiated goods, and for helping remediate contaminant and safety issues while minimally affecting performances. Ideal for detecting irradiated goods, equipment, surfaces or environments in industrial settings, the 481 Radiation Meter helps ascertain worker safety and compliance to federal regulations.

Use of the Fluke 481 assures employees that radiation dangers are known, monitored and calculated for their security. Whenever radiation is found, a clear and quantifiable result provides handlers to comply with federal guidelines while avoiding unnecessary steps that could stop procedures, impact productivity or lead to missed revenue.

Fluke NEW 754 Documenting Process Calibrator-HART

2012-01-27T08:48:00.000-08:00

The Fluke 754 has features we know you’ll love: increased accuracy, enhanced reliability, and is easier to read in dark environments.

The new 754 is everything you needed and wished for in the 744 and more! HART communication capability is combined to deliver an integrated communicating calibrator. This rugged, reliable tool is ideal for calibrating, maintaining, and troubleshooting HART and other instrumentation.

The 754 does the work of several tools - sourcing, simulating and measuring pressure, temperature, and electrical signals in one rugged, hand-held device. You’ll fall in love with the new improved graphical screen, Li-on battery for longer life, USB port and new accessories to complete the package.

For documentation, the 754 automates calibration procedures and captures your data. And, of course, it helps you meet rigorous standards like ISO 9000, FDA, EPA and OSHA regulations.
Supports popular instrumentation management software. The 753 and 754, 743 and 744 work with the Fluke DPC/TRACK2™ software, and with popular programs from Honeywell Meridium, Emerson, Cornerstone, Yokogawa, Prime Technologies, Intergraph and others. It allows you to create procedures, instructions, and action lists to deliver fast, easy documentation.

LTC6360 - Very Low Noise Single-Ended SAR ADC Driver with True Zero Output

2012-01-27T08:46:00.001-08:00

The LTC®6360 is a very low noise, high precision, high speed amplifier suitable for driving SAR ADCs. The LTC6360 features a total output noise of 2.3nV/√Hz combined with 150ns settling time to 16-bit levels (AV = 1).

While powered from a single 5V supply, the amplifier output can swing to 0V while maintaining high linearity. This is made possible with the inclusion of a very low noise on-chip charge pump that generates a negative voltage to bias the output stage of the amplifier, increasing the allowable negative voltage swing.

The LTC6360 is available in a compact 3mm × 3mm, 8-pin leadless DFN package and an 8-pin MSOP package with exposed pad and operates over a –40°C to 125°C temperature range.

Newport Introduces Standard Vacuum Stages

2012-01-27T08:45:00.000-08:00

Newport Corporation, a worldwide leader in lasers and photonics solutions that Make, Manage and Measure Light®, announces the new vacuum- compatible LTA series actuators and the URS50B rotation stage for research and industry. These products are compatible to 10 x e-6 hPa (7 x 10e-6 torr) vacuum and are designed for integration in critical sample positioning or beam management processes in vacuum environments. These newly-designed vacuum stages feature a motor-mounted encoder that is extremely useful in detecting the stall of a stepper motor since the stage is not accessible when installed inside a vacuum chamber. The encoder also offers improved position repeatability, a critical factor in many research and commercial applications in vacuum environments.

The LTAHSPPV6 and the LTAHLPPV6 actuators are extensions of the popular and reliable LTA actuators (with non-rotating tips), and are rated at 10,000 hrs MTBF. Compatible with other vacuum-compatible manual stages, both actuators provide sub-micron minimum incremental motion (MIM) and uni-directional repeatability.

The compact URS50BPPV6 rotation stage complements Newport’s higher load capacity URS75BPPV6. The newer model is capable of 360 degrees continuous motion at 4 degrees per second, an MIM of 0.0015 degrees, and can accommodate 5kg loads. The 4-mounting hole locations enable top mounting and enhance the stage’s cantilevered load capacity. This stage is rated at 20,000 hrs MTBF.

The new vacuum-compatible products can be supplied with Newport’s motion controller products from the single-axis SMC100PP to the 8-axis XPS Universal Controller.

Newport Introduces 1830-R Optical Power Meter

2012-01-27T08:44:00.001-08:00

Newport Corporation, a worldwide leader in lasers and photonics solutions that Make, Manage and Measure Light®, announces the 1830-R Optical Power Meter. A newly designed optical meter, the 1830-R provides a ‘drop-in’ replacement for Newport’s legacy 1830-C Power Meter which has been widely used in fiber optic component production and testing.

The DC power measurements can be easily viewed in the 7-segment, backlit LED display. Units of W, dBm, dB, and relative measurement can be displayed in the 4 ½ digit, wide-angle view. A wide dynamic range is provided with power sensitivities down to 10 pW and full scale readings up to 2 W (detector dependent). The unit’s built-in, audible beeping tone changes its frequency as a function of incident optical power, making it very useful when optimizing the optical beam alignment.

Other features include a USB 2.0 interface (Model 1830-R) and additional IEEE-488 (GPIB) / RS232C outputs (Model 1830-R-GPIB). For added convenience, two analog output modes, 2V into 1 M Ω and 1V into 50 Ω impedance, are also provided. The enhanced 1830-R (-GPIB) Optical Power Meters are hot-swappable among detectors, such as Newport’s low-power 818-series photodiodes and Newport’s higher-sensitivity 918D photodiode detector series. The ultraviolet (UV), silicon (Si), germanium (Ge), or indium gallium arsenide (InGaAs) detectors operate in the 200-1800 nm wavelengths.

CE and RoHS compliant, Newport’s 1830-R Optical Power Meter is available for shipping now. A USB memory stick with software and documents are included with each unit ordered.

Newport Announces SCG-02 Wavelength Extender

2012-01-27T08:43:00.002-08:00

Newport Corporation, a worldwide leader in lasers and photonics solutions that Make, Manage and Measure Light®, introduces the SCG-02 Wavelength Extender to their line of nonlinear microscopy and spectroscopy application solutions. The Wavelength Extender is specifically designed as a modular solution for supercontinuum generation when used with femtosecond Ti:Sapphire lasers, such as Newport Spectra-Physics’ Tsunami®, MaiTai® DeepSee, and MaiTai ultrafast oscillators.

Ideal for a variety of spectroscopy and microscopy applications, the laser input is split into two parallel beams: a) the fundamental pump, and b) parallel, unfiltered broadband supercontinuum. This unique flexibility allows for both the external selection of particular spectra of interest, and the independent use or recombination of both beams. The fundamental beam passes through an integrated attenuator to enable precise control of the output power.

The SCG-02 is factory preassembled and pre-aligned and can be easily integrated into ultrafast light sources to provide turnkey solutions for multimodal spectroscopy and imaging. It can be used with two-photon microscopes for additional modalities and enhances pump-probe imaging and spectroscopy capabilities.

Features include manual controls to attenuate fundamental throughput and to generate parallel, broadband supercontinuum output. The robust and reliable device is designed to preserve the beam path and the tuning range of the pump source.

Spectra-Physics® Unveils Spirit™ High-Repetition-Rate Ultrafast Amplifier

2012-01-27T08:43:00.000-08:00

Spectra-Physics®, a Newport Corporation brand, introduces Spirit™, a compact industrial-grade ultrafast amplifier with software-adjustable repetition rates up to 1MHz. Developed at High Q Laser (recently acquired by Newport), the Spirit laser extends Spectra-Physics’ ultrafast amplifier portfolio to high-repetition rates needed for micromachining of medical devices and other materials, nanostructuring, pump-probe experiments, and selected time-resolved science applications.

“The adjustable high-repetition-rate operation and robustness make Spirit the ideal laser for femtosecond micromachining,”

said Herman Chui, senior director of product marketing for Spectra-Physics.

“This compact laser is also excellent as a flexible tool for a number of time-resolved science applications.”

The Spirit ultrafast laser provides high average power of >4 W and fully-automated adjustability over a wide range of repetition rates from 50 kHz to 1 MHz. Featuring a rugged one-box design, the laser delivers ultrashort 400 fs pulse widths with high energy of 20uJ per pulse. The highly reliable Spirit also has excellent beam characteristics with diffraction-limited TEM00 mode.

The new Spirit ultrafast amplifier will be featured at SPIE Photonics West, The Moscone Center, San Francisco, CA, January 24-26, 2012. Please visit Newport's booth #1301 for a demonstration.

Establish a Link to China with CC-Link at the SPS/IPC/DRIVES Fair and Take Home an iPad

2012-01-27T08:41:00.000-08:00

Potential suppliers wanting efficient access to the accelerating Chinese automation market may also win themselves an iPad ahead of Christmas, by visiting the CLPA (CC-Link Partner Association) in Booth 6-136 at SPS/IPC/DRIVES. This fair is Europe's leading exhibition for industrial automation and runs in Nuremberg 22 - 24 November 2011.

There is an iPad to be won every day. Each day, CLPA will remove an unspecified length from a reel of certified CC-Link cable; the visitor who guesses the remaining length most accurately wins an iPad.

The cable is supplied by 3M, which is a key sponsor of the CLPA's Gateway to China programme. Marlies Postels, 3M's Business and Technology Manager, Industrial Factory Automation, Electronics Solutions Division, explains: "We are working with the CLPA and a number of other sponsors to open up an efficient route into the Chinese market."

"Automation systems are always a collaborative venture, with suppliers of hardware, software, integration, design and logistics all working together. The Gateway to China is a way to make this as effective as possible, by pooling experience, establishing links with key players in China and capitalising on CC-Link's already dominant position in the region."

CC-Link allows efficient communications between devices in an automation system. It is open, allowing system integrators to choose the best device for each particular node rather than being confined to the offering of one specific manufacturer.

"It is common to automate one process within a plant, then others, and later wanting to interconnect them all into one integrated system," says John Browett, Acting General Manager of the CLPA. "Typically at this point you will encounter problems with incompatible hardware. However, CC-Link completely circumvents the issues, allowing the plant to become rapidly and easily ever-more automated."

"The Chinese have recognised that if they are to maintain the position they have developed in global manufacturing over the last 25 years, then automation is absolutely vital. Thus there is almost total focus on implementing automation right across this huge nation. And since CC-Link is regarded as a de-facto standard in many industries, it's well placed to take advantage of this."

The Gateway to China programme is being co-ordinated by the CLPA and is supported by 3M and 13 other key European CLPA partners (ABB Robotics, Balluff, Bihl+Wiedemann, Cognex, Datalogic Hilscher Gesellschaft für Systemautomation, HMS Industrial Networks, IDEC Corp, Mitsubishi Electric, Pepperl + Fuchs, Pro-face, WAGO Kontakttechnik and Weidmüller's Ethernet infrastructure business unit), who between them represent all aspects of automation from sensors, through PLCs, drives, HMIs and robots to software integration and communications.

The CLPA has already identified key industries its members want to target, including food & beverage, water, energy management and consumer packaged goods. Its SPS booth will demonstrate how products from European CC-Link partners can be used to build a solution tailored to each application's specific needs. The aim is to show that CC-Link supports a wide range of applications across many industries using devices from established European vendors.

Browett comments: "CC-Link is the standard in many Asian industries, such as automotive and flat panel display production. This installed base and local familiarity with CC-Link helps European device manufacturers achieve market acceptance in China.

"We also recognise that we are building a foundation for future growth. Manufacturing is globalising and China has become one of the main hubs. It is aggressive in developing its manufacturing base, but recognises that it must use world-class automation to achieve its aims.

"This means there is tremendous potential for European device manufacturers and systems integrators to supply them."

CC-Link Sees Better Productivity for Flat Panel Display Manufacturers

2012-01-27T08:39:00.001-08:00

Production of flat screen liquid crystal displays (LCDs) at one of the largest plants in Asia has steadily ramped up to meet the ever-increasing demand. The process is now highly automated, so data communications are critically important. The choice of a high-speed Ethernet based open network, CC-Link IE, to run the automation comms at the plant could point towards the future for many more automation installations in Asia and Europe.

Flat-panel LCDs televisions and monitors have been one of the strongest growing consumer products of recent years. Production demand has grown, as has the number of product variations. And of course consumer price pressures require constantly improving efficiency. All this can only be achieved by more effective communication and data sharing between the manufacturing cells that make up the plant.

Automation engineers recognise that consumer electronic plants typically evolve in a fairly ad-hoc manner as demand increases, so the control system architecture often has to marry together diverse subsystems producing sub-optimal overall performance. At the Asian LCD plant, the situation ended up with the high level MES (Manufacturing Execution System) and ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) systems using standard TCP/IP Ethernet, while the shop-floor systems implemented Mitsubishi Electric's MELSECNET/H at the control level, and the open standard CC-Link.

While having served the facility well in the past, it was perceived that the data communications capacity and speed of MELSECNET/H was lagging behind the current requirements. Further, it was felt that a standard optical fibre cable would make maintenance and reconfiguration easier while providing better connectivity to PC systems.

CC-Link IE (Industrial Ethernet) was seen as an improvement on this with improved data capacity and speed, the use of a generic optical cable and better PC connectivity. Importantly, its diagnostics capability also made maintenance easier. CC-Link is an open industrial network that enables devices from many different manufacturers to communicate over a single network. It is available in several different formats, including CC-Link IE (Industrial Ethernet).

With 1Gbps transmission speeds, CC-Link IE is the fastest Ethernet currently available for networking multiple field devices and controllers. Critical for industrial applications, it is also fully deterministic, ensuring full dependability for critical manufacturing tasks. Its highly fault tolerant features improve efficiency and productivity, and uses widelyavailable, standard fibre optic cable and connectors.

In order to overcome the limitations of the existing control system it was decided to upgrade to a CC-Link IE network across the whole LCD plant. This offered many advantages, such as a 40 times theoretical increase in communication speed, together with an eight-fold increase in data capacity.

CC-Link IE does not require a special type of optical cable but may be installed with the generic 1000base-SX standard optical cable, thereby reducing cable-related costs. In a large plant, the savings in material alone are significant, but the real benefit is the ease and speed of maintenance and reconfiguration. This is further enhanced by the enhanced diagnostic functions and the simplification of the system's architecture.

The control network in the LCD plant is now rationalised to a simple format.

• The major systems such as ERP and MES use the industry standard HSMS Protocol.

• Shop floor systems that control equipment and provide facilities and production site information are established using CC-Link IE.

• Data sharing between equipment or facility hardware controls is also based on CC-Link IE or CC-Link fieldbus.

The plan is that there will be complete integration from the field device level right up to the strategic management information level through CC-Link IE in the near future.

LCD manufacture is seen by production engineers at the Asian Plant as demonstrating many of the control technology
solutions of future manufacturing. Trends to expect include many production sites becoming virtually unmanned. Instead of site-specific personnel, remote diagnosis and monitoring technologies will increasingly become the norm. Networks will play a vital role in enabling these trends, and CC-Link is at the forefront of these advances.
About the CLPA

The CC-Link Partner Association (CLPA) is an international organisation with over 1,500 member companies worldwide. The partners’ common objective is promotion and technical development of the family of CC-Link open network technologies. Over 1,100 certified products are now available from over 250 manufacturers. CC-Link is the leading industrial fieldbus in Asia and is becoming increasingly popular in Europe and the Americas. The European headquarters is in Germany, with offices throughout the continent.

CC-Link Partner Association Announces Ethernet Based Safety Networking

2012-01-27T08:38:00.000-08:00

CC-Link is a family of open network technologies that have a 10 year pedigree of growth in the global market, having now reached an installed base of over 8 million devices. A key part of this family are the CC-Link IE (Industrial Ethernet) variants, being the only open Ethernet based networks that offer gigabit performance.

CC-Link IE Field was introduced in 2009 to offer gigabit Ethernet performance between controllers and field devices such as I/O, inverters, HMI and other machine components. The CLPA has now announced a significant extension to the capabilities of CC-Link IE Field, by adding a fully IEC 61508 SIL 3 compliant safety protocol layer. This means that with a single open Ethernet based network, system designers can integrate conventional and safety control. Further, compatible safety devices can connect directly to the network, reducing cost and increasing flexibility. Rather than having to implement a costly independent safety network, designers can now simply add safety devices as required, using the existing CC-Link IE Field network infrastructure. To maintain the vital safety control, the safety devices are operated by a dedicated safety controller that works independently of the main network controller.

John Browett, Acting General Manager of CLPA Europe commented, "CC-Link IE Field is a groundbreaking technology that puts CC-Link ahead of the market by virtue of its unmatched gigabit performance. The addition of the safety capabilities further maintains that leadership position. In any safety application, dependability and performance are paramount. Machine builders and system designers can choose CC-Link IE Field knowing that its response to emergencies will be immediate. When life or limb is at stake, milliseconds can make the difference between a narrow escape and a serious or even fatal injury."

Browett further commented, "While IEC 61508 does not attempt to completely eliminate risk from a system, it attempts to mitigate it to the lowest possible level based on what is considered acceptable for the application. CC-Link IE Field provides a flexible safety solution that meets the needs of a wide range of applications, independent of their level of risk."

"We usually try to promote CC-Link as being "The Non-Stop Open Network™, to explain how its technical features translate directly into business benefits by being able to maintain productivity even in adverse operating conditions. However, this new safety technology demonstrates that sometimes it's just as important to stop rather than go."

The safety capabilities further demonstrate CLPA's commitment to developing CC-Link's core technologies. CC-Link IE has shown a steady history of advancement. Originally launched in 2007 for controller level networking (CC-Link IE Control), since then CLPA has shown a track record of driving gigabit performance to all levels of the hierarchy. Further developments are planned for the near future, including an Ethernet based motion control network.

CC-Link is accepted as being the leading technology for the Asian market. As demand for safety functions increases in this market, it's clear that European companies will also be implementing it to allow them to compete in that vital region.

Winemaker Blends Timeless Tradition with High Tech Communications

2012-01-27T08:37:00.000-08:00

A Ukrainian winemaker is using CC-Link to help automate and expand the production of its world class wines and spirits. With domestic consumption booming, and export markets opening up, the Shabo vineyard in the Odessa region is combining high technology with the delicate art of fine wine production.

Grapes have been cultivated in Shabo since the arrival of the ancient Greeks. Five hundred years ago the region was colonised by the Turks, then Swiss immigrants brought their artisan skills from about 1822. The mild climate, warm air of the Steppe, sandy soil and unique microclimate of the Black Sea coast provide perfect conditions for grape cultivation. Like Bordeaux and Burgundy Shabo is on the "grape latitude" – between 46° and 47° North.

In 2004 the winery was completely converted with modern European equipment which has been combined with ancient cellars and wine storages with the objective of producing wines and brandies as fine as any within the last 200 years.

An ongoing programme of investment has seen the creation of full-cycle production: from cultivation of grapes, through storage and seasoning to bottling, as well as distillation for spirits and mixing for vermouth. Currently it has capacity to process 20 thousand tons of grapes in a season, producing up to 45million bottles of wine and 25million bottles of brandy, using the delicate 'cold bottling' method.

All stages of Shabo wine production are focussed on preserving the grapes' taste, colour and aroma in the wine. So harvesting is by hand, allowing selection of the best. Then the grapes are subjected to the various processes of winemaking, maturing blending and bottling.

However the viticulturists at Shabo are keen to embrace the most modern automation technologies to ensure their increasing production is both efficient and quality focussed. In October 2011, for instance they installed a high tech system to maintain preset temperatures in both the production and maturing areas and also to measure the level of wine in the holding tanks. As well as this, the new system monitors the pumping activities of the refrigeration stations and coolant temperature. This automates a previously manual task that was time consuming and required considerable concentration to ensure accurate recording and thorough analysis.

The opportunity was also taken to integrate several processes that were already individually automated into one unified system. For data signaling and communication around the system CC-Link was chosen because of its ability to communicate easily with devices from a wide range of manufacturers. It was also noted CC-Link can be quickly installed and is highly reliable; two points that meant disruption to production would be minimized. The architecture of the system is based on a supervisory level computer equipped with twin monitors and operator panels running a SCADA (supervisory control and data acquisition) program. This is supported by a production management control system based on five PLCs (programmable logic controllers) communicating via two CC-Link networks.

These collect and process data from numerous process floor sensors monitoring temperature, humidity, tank levels and valve settings. In total there are 256 analog and digital inputs and 152 outputs (all digital) in the CC-Link system. And it is planned that the system will be regularly expanded in stages in the coming years.

One of the key advantages of CC-Link in this situation is that if a section of the system is taken off-line , the data signals will automatically re-route themselves through alternative wiring routes so that overall control is never lost. Similarly, the system can be expanded simply by plugging new devices or sub-systems into the existing wiring; signal routing is instantly and automatically optimized and communications are never interrupted.

The winemakers already have plans to increase the number of holding tanks fitted with monitoring sensors and automated pumping stations as production is increased in order to meet growing demand.

The wine market is promising for Ukrainian producers, because consumption volumes are steadily growing. Currently, the wine market in the Ukraine is about 17.6m decalitres of wine or US$ 800m. Experts believe that annual growth of wine consumption for the next several years will be around 17.5%. This is attributable to the increasing adoption of European lifestyle choices, namely a switch from vodka to wine, and to the growing wealth of the region.

Additionally, export opportunities are opening up rapidly. Wine drinkers around the world are keen to try wines from new regions; Shabo has recently opened a Ukrainian Wine Cultural Centre, and has been included in Europe's first wine cultural routes development map as drawn up by the Council of Europe, European commission, UNESCO and representatives of European wine industry.

Bürkert Presents Flexible Solution for Integration of Actuators in Hygienic Processes

2012-01-25T08:21:00.001-08:00

Through the combination of the valve terminal type 8640 or an AirLINE automation system type 8644 with an airline Quick adapter plate for direct mounting in control cabinets the fluid technology specialist Bürkert offers a flexible and especially compact solution for the pneumatic control of processes. The AirLINE Quick adapter and the corresponding connections are available in a high-quality stainless steel version which is recommended for use in all hygienic processes. Process safety features, such as check valves integrated in the exhaust air duct and a HotSwap function for replacing pneumatic valves during operation, round out the features of this solution for the hygienic process environment in the food, beverage or pharmaceutical industries.

Bürkert valve terminals and automation systems can be used in many different areas of hygienic processes and readily fulfil the high standards of this segment. This is ensured by the integrated process safety features of the valve terminal type 8640 and the automation system type 8644 - features which are especially important in hygienic processes. Check valves integrated in the exhaust air duct ensure that in the event that all actuators are shut down simultaneously during a disturbance in the system, no back pressure can accumulate in a valve block, which could result in unwanted switching of a valve, with serious consequences for the process. The time-tested HotSwap function allows replacement of faulty valves even during operation, without the risk of loss of air pressure on the entire valve block. The combination of a valve terminal or automation system with the AirLINE Quick adapter provides an especially compact system solution for even more flexibility in a smaller space.

Direct mounting in cabinet saves space, time and components

The AirLINE Quick mounting system consists of an adapter plate which is bolted on one side to the valve terminal or the AirLINE automation system and on the other side directly to the system's pneumatic connections. After it is connected, the adapter plate enables fast and easy mounting directly on the wall or floor of the control cabinet. An additional plate on the outside provides for added stability. For use in hygienic processes, the AirLINE Quick adapter plate and connections are available in a stainless steel model; for less critical application, a less expensive aluminium model with pneumatic connections made of nickel-plated brass is available.

With AirLINE Quick all pneumatic connections, the Fieldbus interface and the I/O modules can be mounted directly on the control cabinet floor or wall. This allows an altogether smaller design of control cabinets. Additional components such as hoses, cables or control cabinet connections are eliminated due to direct mounting in the floor or wall, further reducing the time needed for installation and commissioning.

Optimized Production Process for Gaussian Mirrors - Just One Single Supplier in Germany

2012-01-25T08:16:00.001-08:00

LASER COMPONENTS is one of the few worldwide manufacturers that can produce Gaussian mirrors. Gaussian mirrors are also known as graded reflectivity mirrors, GRM or variable reflecting mirrors, VRM. The special coating is characterized by a degree of reflecion that falls off in a Gaussian-shaped curve starting from the center of the optics.

Customers can choose almost any shape the Gaussian curve should take. The reflection values in the center range from a few percent to a maximum of 85%. Gaussian mirrors are extremely stable in the laser and suited for high power levels. They are used as output couplers in unstable resonators where they help to reduce the beam divergence at high pulse energies. The components are also used to generate laser beams with a very homogeneous power distribution, which are required for illumination tasks, in material processing, or medical applications. To produce high pump efficiency, Gaussian mirrors are, furthermore, used in frequency-doubled systems.

The coating process of the Gaussian mirrors has been optimized. For that the manufacturing costs have been significantly reduced. Mirrors at 1064 nm, in particular, are available inexpensively at very short delivery times.

Fastest Laser Energy Measurement Device on the Market - Laser Energy Measurement with the Mach 5

2012-01-25T08:15:00.001-08:00

There is now a solution for practical real-time measurement of DPSS pulse energies in the 30 - 50 kHz range. LASER COMPONENTS presents the mach 5 – the laser energy meter from Gentec-EO. The mach 5 exactly measures the pulse-to-pulse energy. It counts all the pulses above a certain defined energy threshold.

Major technological challenges made the latest development in the measurement of single pulses of up to 130 kHz difficult: First, a family of pyroelectric high-speed probes that can be used at frequencies of more than 100.000 Hz had to be developed for energy measurement purposes. At the same time, extremely fast, digital electronics were developed that analyze each pulse in real time and store this information just as quickly – approximately 4 million data points are processed in just 40 seconds!

The energy meter determines energy, frequency, average power, and pulse jitter in a single measurement. At the same time, it determines the number of missing pulses or pulses below an energy threshold defined by the user. With the included software it is possible to display the measurement data in a strip chart, histogram, or statistics window. The user‘s measurement profile can be stored for analysis at a later point in time. For automated measurements use the automated "life test". The measurement runs its course without the user‘s assistance.

Hermetical Feedthroughs for Optical Fibers - When It has to be Leakproof

2012-01-25T08:14:00.001-08:00

With hermetic feedthroughs for optical fibers, optical signals can easily be delivered into a vacuum or pressure chamber. LASER COMPONENTS offers this components for pressures of up to 1000 bar and a vacuum as little as 10–9 mbar.

Different versions for single-mode and multi-mode fibers of the partner SEDI Fibres Optiques are available. In multi-mode fibers, core diameters of 50 µm to 1000 µm can be achieved. In single-mode fibers, it is possible to also use polarization-maintaining fibers. FC/PC and FC/APC connectors are available for these fibers; ST and SMA connectors for the multimode fibers.

Mounting these feedthroughs on a chamber wall is done using a simple mounting flange that holds the feedthrough steady with a counter nut. To meet the specifications required of vacuum technology, CF flange and KF flange versions are also available.

The hermetically sealed feedthroughs are available as coupler and as inline versions. Special designs that include customer-supplied speciality fibers, multiple channel designs, and optical/electrical hybrid feedthroughs are available upon request.

New Low-Noise APD Receivers - Discover the H0 Series

2012-01-25T08:13:00.001-08:00

LASER COMPONENTS presents its new avalanche photodiodes receivers: The H0 series. Supplied in a very compact, modified TO5 housing with a diameter of approximately 5 mm, the H0 series APD receivers can be integrated into small systems with which, for example, distances can be measured or the smallest light signals detected. The simplest way to use a detector is with an integrated receiver circuit. Here the quality is judged according to the amount of noise produced.

For the entire system, however, the amplifier noise is the dominant source of noise. To reduce the overall noise of the detector/amplifier module, the capacitance connected to the amplifier has to be as small as possible. This is achieved by making the connections as short as possible. With its H0 series, LASER COMPONENTS has developed an APD receiver, with an inherent noise of nearly zero.

Depending on the integrated feedback resistor, a bandwidth from DC up to 80 MHz can be achieved. If the SAR500, a Si APD with a diameter of 500 µm, is integrated, the module has a noise equivalent power (NEP) of only 4.86 fW/sqrt(Hz) at an amplification of 3 x 107 V/W. With the 80 µm or 200 µm InGaAs APD of the IAG series, the following values can be achieved: 1.1 x 106 V/W @ pW/sqrt(Hz).

X20 System Certified for Maritime Use

2012-01-25T08:11:00.000-08:00

After extensive testing by the certification institute Germanischer Lloyd (GL), the B&R X20 System has achieved the coveted seal of quality for maritime applications. All of the X20 modules tested - CPUs, I/O modules and bus controllers - proved they have what it takes to meet the high demands on functionality and operational safety required in maritime environments.

These components have been classified for environmental categories D and EMC1, which permits operation under deck, including in the bridge and machine room. As an internationally recognized certification organization, GL is involved in establishing technical standards for shipping and offshore facilities and is highly regarded by other classification societies such as ABS, Lloyds Register, DNV, Bureau Veritas, and many more.

In addition to the international prestige bestowed upon GL-certified components and the associated rapid inspection and approval procedures, the seal of quality provides comprehensive information regarding the safety and quality of industrial products. This seal is therefore not only significant in maritime applications, but also very respected in non-maritime environments. Users from a wide variety of different industries place a great amount of trust in this seal when deciding which products best suit their needs.

The X20 System is both a complete control solution as well as a remote I/O system. Its innovative three-part modularity - bus module, electronics module and terminal block - allows many different assemblies using a single platform. With its ultra-compact 8-channel, 12-channel and 16-channel modules, users can save up to 50% on their control cabinet solutions.

Smart Safe Reaction with openSAFETY for Profinet

2012-01-25T08:09:00.002-08:00

Now that B&R's SafeLOGIC safety controller is available for Profinet networks, Smart Safe Reaction technology can be quickly and easily integrated into Profinet automation applications. Based on openSAFETY, B&R's Smart Safe Reaction product set is the only integrated safety system that can guarantee response times of 10 ms, which is 10 times faster than previous solutions. The openSAFETY real-time safety bus system is not bound to a single solution and can be used on all conventional Ethernet-based fieldbus network systems up to SIL 3.

In industries where Profinet has established itself as the most prevalent fieldbus network, there is considerable interest in open safety technology. With the innovative and high-performance features that Smart Safe Reaction technology can provide in combination with openSAFETY, user requirements can now also be solved on automated machines and systems that use Profinet.

Product set for Profinet

B&R meets this demand with a SafeLOGIC safety controller model for Profinet. It allows execution of the safety-related application program and also handles monitoring the overall configuration of the application, including its parameters.

The application on the Profinet master CPU has full access to the signals in the network, regardless of whether standard or safety-related channels are affected. The SafeLOGIC controller also uses openSAFETY to monitor the system and shut it down if a safety requirement is not met. A wide range of proven functions from the Smart Safe Reaction portfolio is available for implementation. This includes, for example, PLCopen-compliant and TÜV-certified function blocks, secure digital and analog input signals, safe temperature signal detection, and much more.

Putting the "open" in openSAFETY

The SafeLOGIC controller in this network can of course also handle signals from openSAFETY components such as light curtains, laser scanners and variable frequency drives from other manufacturers.

Evolving Ergonomics with Multi-Touch

2012-01-25T08:09:00.000-08:00

In the area of consumer electronics, multi-touch has not only changed the ergonomics of devices, it has changed user habits as well. In industrial automation, this technology has the potential to make machine operation more intuitive, faster and safer - in essence, to bring about a revolution in ergonomics for machine and system visualization units. At the SPS/IPC/Drives exhibition in Nuremberg, B&R introduced devices that allow multi-touch input in industrial environments.
In industrial automation, there has been a strong and consistent trend towards touch screens for over a decade. They have even broken through in a big way in hygiene-related industries such as foodstuffs and pharmaceuticals. "Touch screens are not likely to completely replace devices with physical keys," explains Raimund Ruf, manager of the HMI Business Unit at B&R. "Nevertheless, they will continue to advance into more and more areas due to their overall versatility. At the same time, we are seeing much more emphasis being placed on user ergonomics, both in how panel hardware is arranged as well as in the design of the user interface."

Two-finger ergonomics

The multi-touch technology we are familiar with from smartphones - which can detect and evaluate the presence of two or more points of contact with the screen at the same time - offers the next big leap in innovation in the field of machine manufacturing.

It promises a significant increase in usability by simplifying system operation while increasing the level of safety at the same time. Operations where one hand is used to open up a menu while the other sets parameters setting are definitely a possibility. This would eliminate the need to jump back and forth between sub-menus while increasing overall clarity in the application. The operator is able to get where he needs to go faster because complex menu layers can be eliminated. Handling lists would also be simplified since the operator could simply scroll through the content instead of having to rely on narrow scrollbars.

Operational safety can also be increased by implementing methods such as blocking certain actions until an additional button is pressed simultaneously with the other hand. Even if this doesn't completely replace dead-man's controls just yet, multi-touch operation used in this way can still prevent critical operating steps from being carried out unintentionally.

Product presentation at the SPS/IPC/DRIVES trade fair

B&R presented their own multi-touch technology at the SPS/IPC/DRIVES fair in the form of a 21.5" Full HD Automation Panel for mounting on a support arm. Its solid glass surface makes it easy to clean and offers the operator excellent haptic properties.

Not Just Efficient, But Smart: The Next Generation of Automation Studio

2012-01-25T08:07:00.001-08:00

With Automation Studio 4, B&R has forged an entirely new path when it comes to smart engineering. Many convenient automated functions as well as true-to-life architecture modeling, version control, support for shared projects and simple object-oriented programming take program design efficiency to a whole new level.

"The only way a development system will succeed in the long run is if it can provide developers an easy way to manage their increasingly complex programs," explains Dr. Hans Egermeier, manager of the Automation Studio Business Unit at B&R. He works in close cooperation with external usability experts to make sure that Automation Studio meets this important requirement.

Parallel development accelerates time to market

Project modularization is one area that makes working with Automation Studio 4 smarter. It allows individual projects to be split up into manageable pieces so that several developers can work on them at the same time. The new integrated version control system ensures stability and consistency.

Hardware configuration is often the first step in system development. In the new System Designer in Automation Studio, this is handled by arranging photorealistic images of components. The automatic application of the necessary configuration parameters saves an incredible amount of time and prevents errors from occurring in the first place.

Mechatronic support comes standard

For consistent and uniform development of mechanics, electronics and the automation software, Automation Studio 4 comes equipped with an interface to EPLAN Electric P8, which allows ECAD projects and the hardware configuration in Automation Studio to be synchronized. Similar interfaces to simulation programs make it possible to verify the results of development or, conversely, to use the results of simulation as a starting point for system design.

Communication via OPC Unified Architecture provides compatibility with numerous systems from other manufacturers, while direct support of Web technologies simplifies the development of visualization, process monitoring and remote diagnostic applications.

Smarter programming languages and templates

Advanced functions for object-oriented programming with C++ makes programming with classes and objects much more convenient. A smart editor uses function libraries and sections of code that have already been programmed to provide context-sensitive suggestions. During development, visualization templates also accelerate the design of user interfaces.

"Automation Studio 4 not only helps create clearly structured software architecture when a project is first being developed, but also when designing new variants and options or performing project maintenance," says Egermeier. "Its smart features provide optimal support for quickly and easily developing sustainable solutions."

Start for ROEMHELD Swing Clamps without Swing Stroke

2012-01-25T08:06:00.000-08:00

Actually the principle is quite simple: The hydraulic swing clamp without swing stroke is a double-acting pull-type cylinder where a part of the piston stroke is used to swing the piston rod without axial stroke. This allows the clamping arm to easily enter in recesses that are only insignificantly higher than the clamping arm.

The ROEMHELD experts with their high potential of experiences now have realised in a technically perfect way, what sounds simple in theory . Where up to now clamping points have to be kept free for loading and unloading of the fixture, now also recesses can be used for clamping. The piston rod together with the clamping arm is rotated without axial stroke to the desired direction and after the completion of the swing motion above the clamping point the linear clamping stroke is effected. To make this principle a reality, a higher production expense and more interior components that are perfectly matched are required compared to traditional swing clamps.

Ideal for complex design workpieces
Especially for complex shaped cast parts or aluminium parts with complicated ribbing it is ideal, if no swing stroke is required. Besides the high process safety, there is a further time saving due to a clamping lever that can be swung into a recess. The demand for up to date fast loading and unloading of the workpiece to be machined is thereby met.

The swing clamp with its compact flange design and its maximum operating pressure of 350 bar is optionally available with clockwise or counterclockwise swing motion. The standard swing angle is 90°, but special swing angles between 20° and 70° are available on request as well. Also the metallic wiper that protects the standard FKM wiper against mechanical damage can be selected as an option. An electric or pneumatic position monitoring is optionally available.

The reinforced swing mechanism without overload protection device endures a collision of the clamping arm with the workpiece up to a pressure of 100 bar during the swing motion.

Focused on a high-precision fabrication and a way of thinking oriented at the customer, ROEMHELD has looked for a purposeful solution for clamping tasks and has implemented an application-oriented solution.

ROEMHELD Compact Clamp Opens Clamping Lever by 90 Degrees

2012-01-25T08:05:00.000-08:00

That's really ingenious – the patented system of the ROEMHELD compact clamp enables loading of the workpiece into the fixture independently of the lever length. A clamping recess in the workpiece a little bit wider than the clamping lever is sufficient as clamping surface.

Generally compact clamps are designed for application in hydraulic clamping fixtures where oil supply is effected through drilled channels in the fixture body. With the patented ROEMHELD system, the compact clamp requires only minimum space and is therefore particularly suited for clamping fixtures that allow only little space for the installation of hydraulic clamping elements.

Unimpeded loading and unloading of the clamping fixture
The hydraulic double-acting compact clamp, designed for a maximum operating pressure of 250 bar, is the only hinge clamp on the market that opens the lever by 90 degrees. In unclamping position the clamping lever is swung up so that the workpiece can be easily unloaded. Therewith the target of unimpeded loading and unloading of the clamping fixture is met.

Due to a defined vertical stroke, workpiece clamping without side loads is possible thus significantly increasing the process safety for the machining of clamped workpieces. That applies especially to test systems for motors and gears or the use in assembly lines.

Two different standard clamping levers are designed. Long clamping levers are adaptable to the workpiece.

The version with cover is inserted into open bore holes and enables the smallest possible building height. For versions without cover, a closed pocket hole is required. The respective pneumatic clamping monitoring of the clamping position is already a standard feature - just as the metallic wiper edge for the piston rod.

Four different sizes from 2.5 kN to 10.5 kN are available. Any mounting position of the compact clamps is possible. If special versions are required, the extensive process know-how as well as the long-time experience of the ROEMHELD experts are at the users' disposal in order to combine the different variants for individual applications.

Hydraulic Threaded-Body Work Support from ROEMHELD with Minimum Dimensions

2012-01-25T08:04:00.000-08:00

For very versatile production processes, optimum positioning and clamping nowadays are the requirements for high-quality final products. Especially for applications with limited space the newly launched threaded-body work supports of the market leader for hydraulic clamping systems ROEMHELD offers an excellent protection against vibration and deflection during the machining of the workpiece.

The single-acting work supports (M26 x 1.5), designed for a maximum operating pressure of up to 350 bar, have a thin-walled locking bush in their body that circularly locks the movable support plunger when pressurising the element. The minimum distance of the support points is 30mm. The interior parts are corrosion resistant and the hardened contact bolt is specially sealed. The standard metallic wiper edge and the FKM wiper provide for high process safety.

Three types of function
The ROEMHELD work supports offer three different procedures for the contact of the support plunger. The work supports can be used with spring pressure, air pressure or oil pressure combined with spring force. When using the spring force, the support plunger is maintained by spring force in the extended position. When inserting the workpiece into the fixture, the support plunger is pushed back and contacts the surface to be supported with spring force. If the workpiece is clamped, the increasing hydraulic pressure locks the support plunger and thus forces in axis direction can be compensated.

When pneumatically pressurised the support plunger moves against the already clamped workpiece. The contact force can be adjusted by means of a pneumatic pressure reducing valve.

When pressurised by hydraulic pressure, a little bolt extends and the support plunger contacts the already clamped workpiece with spring force. Due to the increasing hydraulic pressure the support plunger will be clamped.

The work supports must only be operated with a sealed contact bolt. Special versions can be realised in cooperation with the ROEMHELD experts.

Hydraulic Clamping Elements for Clamping of Workpieces

2012-01-25T08:02:00.001-08:00

Highest flexibility offers the proved swing clamp line with sturdy swing mechanism that ROEMHELD continues now with again improved product characteristics. Different design changes have been made that lead to significant performance enhancing compared with the previous models.

The variant with flange at the top often used on the market is available in four sizes and enables high clamping forces with relatively low oil pressures. Also a use under difficult operating conditions is possible without any problems: Due to the sturdy swing mechanism without overload protection device the angle position of the clamping arm remains the same after a slight collision with the workpiece during loading or unloading. Also a collision during the clamping process is not critical.

Five different possibilities for position monitoring
Very advantageous for the universal use are the five different possibilities for position monitoring, a feature that is not offered by any other competitor. The complete control is made via the integrated pneumatic ports in the flange or - according to the request - by additional position monitoring possibilities that are available as accessories.

Due to this flexibility the double-acting swing clamps are especially suitable for the use in clamping fixtures with workpiece change by handling systems, in transfer lines, automatic manufacturing systems or special machine tools. This applies also to complete test systems for motors, gears or axes.

High process safety due to sturdy design
For high flow rates the swing speed of the new swing clamp is limited by installed throttle points. Due to the sturdy design and a strengthening of the material, now also operating pressures of max. 350 bar are possible.

Beside the standard FKM wiper at the piston rod, which has a high chemical resistance against aggressive cutting fluids, the swing clamp can be equipped with a metallic wiper. The metallic wiper protects the FKM wiper against mechanical damage especially in the case of heavy cutting operations.

LVDTs and Load Cells Used to Check Window Frame Deflections

2012-01-25T08:00:00.001-08:00

A combination of Linear Variable Displacement Transducers (LVDTs) and load cells can be employed to measure deflection in various components of window frames.

RDP Electronics Ltd offers a comprehensive range of both LVDTs and load cells that are used to obtain force versus displacement data for various parts of the frame structure. Analysis of this data provides information enabling the window manufacturer to be sure that both during the installation of the frame, as well as when it is in application, does not cause the aperture to change shape significantly. This is important to avoid exerting pressure on the glazing, which could result in the glass shattering.

Magnetostrictive Displacement Transducers Prove Popular for Impact Testing

2012-01-25T07:59:00.000-08:00

Impact testing of safety products such as crash helmets, calls for accurate measurement of displacement which is achieved by using transducers such as LVDTs and magnetostrictive devices.

An impact test determines the energy absorbed in fracturing a test piece at high velocity and this usually involves a large range of displacement. Sometimes LVDT's are used, but more usually MTS Temposonics transducers are recommended because of their much larger measurement range. MTS Temposonics are the original developers of the magnetostrictive technology and recognised world leaders for quality and service for this very rugged type of sensor. Based on the magnetostrictive principle displacement sensors are extremely accurate, highly reliable, offer absolute position measurement, can easily be installed and enjoy long trouble-free performance.

RDP Transducers in Demand from UK Space Industry

2012-01-25T07:58:00.000-08:00

With the growing importance of the UK’s expanding space and satellite industry, demand for specially manufactured transducers from RDP Electronics Ltd is increasing.

The completely sealed transducers use low outgassing materials to standards specified by NASA for applications in space. In particular avoiding the potential for contamination of other components on a space vehicle for example optical devices such as mirrors or cameras, due to expelled gases from transducers.

RDP’s manufacturing process mimimises the risk of damage to the transducer by means of slow pressure changes and also by modifications to ensure that there are no sealed cavities in which a pressure differential could cause damage. Out-gassing into the vacuum of vapour escaping from internal adhesives and varnishes is reduced by controlled ‘baking’ of the transducer to thoroughly dry out such materials.Transducers for the space industry are also fully welded ensuring any residual vapours are sealed inside the unit.

According to a report by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills, “UK companies have developed significant competitive advantages in different segments of the space value chain which enable it to successfully compete in global markets. Like other technology intensive sectors, the space sector exhibits above- average innovation, skills and productivity levels.”

RDP Transducers Monitor Bridges in All Weathers

2012-01-25T07:57:00.000-08:00

RDP products are frequently used to measure movements in the structure of bridges caused by the weight of traffic, environmental conditions and other factors.

Higher traffic loads and corrosion can lead to increased strain in bridge components, such as suspension cable fixing points. It is important for engineers to understand movements and loads imposed on the structure in order to predict potential problems and to maximise the safe working life of the bridge. Ageing bridge structures may be reaching overload due to the effects of increased weights and traffic volumes on steel structures that may be also weakened by corrosion or suffering early metal fatigue.

Very often the transducers used to monitor movements are installed on structures in coastal regions where the rain water must be considered saline and transducers are also exposed to chemical pollutants created by road vehicles. RDP Electronics Ltd offers many different types of products with a very high water ingress protection rating. Transducers can be supplied that are moisture resistant or fully welded for submersible applications. Thanks to a stainless steel construction these transducers are suited to operation in marine environments and also resist the corrosive effects due to winter road treatments for ice.

The LVDT monitoring approach is relatively inexpensive particularly when several points on a bridge need to be monitored, calling for long cable runs. By using a 4-20mA 2 wire loop, the wiring installation cost can be considerably reduced, as well as this offering the best interface to use with long cables for temperature drift reasons.

Metong Machinery Company uses In-Line Viscometers for Asphalt Coating

2012-01-25T07:48:00.000-08:00

Cambridge Viscosity’s in-line viscometer, VISCOpro 2000, is being used by Zhejiang Metong Machinery Company, a leading producer of road construction and maintenance equipment.

The company’s primary products include truck-mounted asphalt systems sold worldwide, asphalt melting equipment and the largest emulsified asphalt plant in China.

Metong’s MT-AR50 Portable Reaction Tank is specially designed for reaction, storage and transportation of rubberized asphalt. Used to pave asphalt roads, the waste tire rubber powder and rubberized asphalt mixture improves pavement function, extends service life and reduces the environmental pressure caused by waste tires. Rubberized asphalt meets the national policy of building a conservation-minded society and developing a cyclic economy.

Metong uses Cambridge’s in-line viscometers to monitor and control asphalt viscosity for their truck-mounted systems. Viscosity is key in monitoring the quality of the rubberized asphalt. In the tank, the asphalt’s viscosity changes according to temperature and the length of time it is contained. The sensors help to maintain constant viscosity by adapting the temperature as needed to obtain a more consistent spray pattern, allowing an even coating to be sprayed onto the road for a higher quality result.

“Viscosity is one of the most important parameters for providing consistent spray patterns for our asphalt application,” explains Technical Engineer Mr. Yang. “We considered several other technologies such as rotational and vibrational viscometers but found the Cambridge viscometer to be the best choice for us due to its compact size, simple design and rugged construction,” says Technical Director Mr. Feng.

Micro-Sample Viscometer Chosen in FDA Nanotechnology Toxicology Study

2012-01-25T07:46:00.001-08:00

The FDA’s National Center for Toxicological Research (NCTR) has purchased a micro-sample viscometer, VISCOLab 5000, to better characterize and detect nanoscale materials. The agency’s research involves the manipulation of biological buffers in saline solutions with tissue culture media ranging from .001 to .1 micrometer in size, and less than 1 ml of serum for total characterization.

The Cambridge viscometer was selected for its small—75 micro-liters—sample requirement, accuracy and repeatability.

With the increased use of products based on nanotechnology in food and drugs, as well as medical devices, biologics and food, the NCTR is conducting research and developing appropriate tools and methods to promote regulatory processes and public health decisions. This involves developing techniques to detect nanoscale materials in toxicological studies, as well as in biological samples. Material samples available for toxicology analysis are limited, making the micro-sample viscometer an ideal solution as it requires very small sample size.

Cambridge Regional Sales Manager William Small explains, “We were awarded the government bid for the VISCOlab 5000 because the system meets the application requirement for a very small amount of sample. It is a micro-sample viscometer that is very easy to use and produces accurate results in a timely manner.”

Biodiesel Viscosity Research at Kansas University with High-Pressure Viscometer

2012-01-25T07:45:00.002-08:00

Researchers at the University of Kansas’ Center for Environmentally Beneficial Catalysis (CEBC) and the Transportation Research Institute (TRI) are studying the viscosity of biodiesel to explore the effect of temperature, pressure and vegetal source on the viscosity of biodiesel. Biodiesel, as an alternative fuel, has undergone significant research, development and large-scale distribution over the past few years. However, very little research has been conducted on the viscosity change that biodiesel would undergo in a fuel injector that would be up to several hundred percent greater than the ambient-pressure viscosity.

Using a Cambridge Viscosity High Pressure Viscometer: VISCOlab PVT, researchers measured the viscosity for five different types of biodiesel under high pressures (up to 130MPa) and at four temperatures (283.15, 298.15, 313.15, and 373.15 K). The five biodiesel samples were derived from a variety of sources, including two types of soybean oil, fresh canola oil, canola oil initially used as a cooking oil, and coconut oil.

Previously, researchers used falling ball or falling cylinder sensor technology, which was time consuming and did not allow for engine pressure conditions. Associate Professor of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering Aaron M. Scurto, PhD, says the VISCOlab PVT “has enabled us to really understand what happens to biodiesel inside an engine injector, accounting for the effects of pressure and temperature. The Cambridge sensor has helped us obtain superior data by directly measuring viscosity under these conditions.”

The study is timely in light of emerging renewable fuel standards. The EPA requires that the volume of renewable fuel blended into transportation fuel be increased from 9 billion gallons in 2008 to 36 billion gallons by 2022. As an alternative fuel, biodiesel has many advantages over petroleum-based fuels, including low particulate emissions and high-energy content, and can be used in conventional compression-ignition (diesel) engines with relatively little or no modification.

By having a better understanding of the viscosity of the fuel at high pressure, engine designers can properly correct for changes in line dynamics and the impact on fuel injection timing and amount in the engine. This will allow for more robust, flexible engine designs that can accommodate emerging biofuel technologies, while achieving lower emissions and higher performance. The research may also help engine designers formulate a universal injector suited for temperature, pressure and fuel conditions, accounting for varying viscosity data across a wide array of biodiesels.

NTPC India Uses Small Sample Viscometer to Monitor Lube Oils

2012-01-25T07:45:00.000-08:00

NTPC, India’s largest thermal power generation company, has purchased a Cambridge Viscosity small sample viscometer, VISCOlab 4000, monitor lubrication oils. NTPC uses large quantities of a variety of oils—lube, fuel, diesel, transformer and gear oil— to operate machinery in their plant. The company will use the laboratory viscometer to verify the quality of inward petroleum material.

According to Cambridge’s India Agent Subhash Thorat of Provisco Tech Private Limited, NTPC selected the small sample viscometer primarily due to its proven, world-class technology, ease of operation and easy-to-clean, low maintenance construction. “We always welcome better technologies that are accurate, reliable and save testing time,” says NPTC Deputy Manager - Chemistry Mr. N. K. Roy.

By monitoring the viscosity of the various oils, the company can better control quality, replacing degraded oil and scheduling maintenance when required. Senior Chemical Manager Mr. G.B. P. Shrivastava says, “After seeing the viscometer in action, it seems to be user friendly. It is particularly well constructed, with no moving parts to wear out easily.”

Ultra Compact USB 3.0 Machine Vision Camera Available From STEMMER IMAGING

2012-01-23T08:54:00.000-08:00

The ultra compact (29 x 29 x 29 mm) uEye CP machine vision camera from IDS has been added to STEMMER IMAGING’s extensive industrial vision camera portfolio. Featuring the USB 3.0 interface, the uEye CP benefits fully from the 9 year pedigree of IDS in the manufacture of USB-technology industrial cameras, with data transfer at rates faster than GigE industrial vision cameras and over distances of more than 10 metres. Three sensors, ranging from VGA to 5 Megapixel resolution, are available in the range.

The new USB 3.0 interface, which is also called SuperSpeed USB, offers high speed data transfer rates of 400 MegaByte/s, making the industrial camera ideally suited to a wide range of data rich applications. This is a tenfold increase in data transfer rate compared to USB 2.0 and around 4 times the speed of the GigE machine vision interface. Data transmission distances of more than 10 metres can be achieved using standard industrial cables.

USB 3.0 is downward compatible and so can be used in existing USB 2.0 systems. The USB 3.0 uEye CP camera family also benefits from the proven IDS software package for Windows and Linux with 32/64 bit drivers, thus allowing simple and easy implementation and ensuring mixed operation of USB 2.0, USB 3.0 and GigE machine vision cameras without having to change any settings.

The new industrial camera has a host of useful features. A 12-bit lookup table and hardware gamma correction provide brightness control, while the 12-bit colour depth offers an increased level of detail compared to the usual 8 bit by a factor of 16. Hardware based data preprocessing is also provided as standard.

The camera is perfectly suited to industrial vision applications, with its mini USB 3.0 connector and light weight (less than 45g thanks to its magnesium housing). It offers trigger and flash as well as two General Purpose I/O, which can also be changed into a serial interface (RS232) for easy triggering or control of peripheral devices. Power is supplied via the USB bus so there is no need for an additional power cable.

Automated Packaging Systems Introduces Next Generation AirPouch® FastWrap™ System

2012-01-23T08:49:00.002-08:00

Automated Packaging Systems has introduced a new generation of on demand protective packaging systems that produce bubbles and tubes used for wrapping, interleaving and block-and-brace applications. The new AirPouch® FastWrap™ system is a compact, all-electric unit that inflates packing materials at 65 linear feet per minute.

The FastWrap system produces protective wrapping and tubes on demand at the workstation, saving significant costs associated with shipping and storing pre-filled bubble packing materials. One small box of FastWrap material yields more than 5½ rolls of pre-filled protective wrapping.

A unique patent-pending dual belt drive and seal flattening system ensures a wrinkle-free seal and better air retention. The FastWrap System has an intelligent design that consistently manages heat, air pressure and speed to produce high quality seals that do not leak. A new knifeless design eliminates the primary wear item found on most other machines.
“This next generation FastWrap machine is designed for consistently reliable performance,” states Chris Rempe, Senior Product Manager. “The system is designed for ease of use and minimal maintenance, and features technology advancements that are unlike any other on-demand protective packing system in its class,” he adds.

FastWrap cellular bubbles feature a patent-pending honeycomb pattern that allows air transfer between cells for maximum product protection and multi-directional wrapping.The FastWrap system is also capable of producing full-length tubes to accommodate a variety of block-and-brace protective packaging applications. EZ-Tear™ perforations between each tube make it easy for the packer to tear off exactly the amount of material they need, reducing waste and improving overall efficiency.

The FastWrap system utilizes a variety of pre-formed materials, including EarthAware™ Biodegradable and Recycled Films, which are fully recyclable and will decompose in a landfill within 9 months to 5 years, depending on exposure conditions. A recognizable green tint shows end users that this is an environmentally-friendly packing material.

Standard FastWrap cellular wrap materials are 12 inches wide with perforations every 10 inches, making it convenient for packers to tear off just what they need for fast, efficient packing. FastWrap tubes are available in 14” lengths and are 1¼” diameter when inflated. Options include an automatic winder, machine stand, storage hopper, footswitch, and custom engineered solutions for unique packing station requirements.

Automated Packaging Systems Introduces New 0.95 mil XD Blend™ Biodegradable Premium Film

2012-01-23T08:49:00.000-08:00

Automated Packaging Systems has developed a new protective packaging material that is thinner and stronger than similar materials used for void-fill packing applications. The new XD Blend is engineered using the most advanced polymer technologies to provide a thin, 0.95 mil material with superior physical properties and eco-friendly biodegradation.

The new XD Blend film is designed for use with the AirPouch® Express 3™ void-fill packaging system, which uses on-demand inflation to create strong air pillows that resist puncturing for reliable product protection during shipping. This pillow material comes pre-formed and fan-folded in a box, providing substantially more yield than rolled materials. Each box contains nearly a mile (5000 ft.) of uninflated pillows, significantly reducing changeover times, shipping costs, and storage space requirements.

XD Blend Bio is part of the EarthAware™ family of films and contains a proprietary additive that causes biodegradation of the poly in 9 months to 5 years, depending on exposure conditions. It is fully recyclable, and contains up to 20% pre-consumer recycled material. XD Blend Bio comes standard in green tint with the EarthAware logo for end-user awareness.

AirPouch EZ-Tear™ pillows include the company’s patented perforation between each pillow, allowing faster, easier separation for better packing productivity. This unique perforation allows more air into each pillow, providing better yield, a lower cost per cubic foot, and less weight per package.

“Our new XD Blend film has exceptional performance properties,” explains Chris Rempe, Senior Product Manager. “It has allowed us to create an environmentally responsible film that is stronger and more puncture resistant than standard films, while also being affordable to our customers,” he adds.

Automated Packaging Systems and R/X Automation Introduce New High Productivity Pharmacy Fulfillment System

2012-01-23T08:48:00.000-08:00

Automated Packaging Systems and R/X Automation Solutions have combined engineering resources to develop the new Script Pack™ SPrint™ a high speed bag packaging system designed specifically for mail order pharmacy fulfillment. The system automatically prints and applies the shipping label, prints and inserts the order documents, verifies the prescription and patient information, loads the product, then seals the bag and completes the order. It produces mail-ready bags at speeds up to 720 orders per hour.

The Script Pack SPrint features a multi-layer verification process that ensures order accuracy. Medications are verified as they are conveyed to the packaging station, and again before they are loaded into the bag.

Literature inserts are scanned as they are printed and prior to loading into the bag. Shipping labels, paperwork and medications all have a fail-safe reject or reset mode that ensures only complete and accurate orders leave the packaging area.

The Script Pack SPrint features a multi-layer verification process that ensures order accuracy. Medications are verified as they are conveyed to the packaging station, and again before they are loaded into the bag. Literature inserts are scanned as they are printed and prior to loading into the bag. Shipping labels, paperwork and medications all have a fail-safe reject or reset mode that ensures only complete and accurate orders leave the packaging area.

Automated Packaging Systems provides the bag packaging system for the Script Pack SPrint, while R/X Automation Solutions provides the software, controls, infeeds and system integration. Jim McFarland, Industry Specialist for Automated Packaging Systems says, “This fully automated system will increase productivity and lower packaging costs for virtually any pharmacy fulfillment application.” Tim Chambers, president of R/X Automation Solutions adds, “This is a fully customizable system that features a small footprint and can be easily integrated into existing pharmacy mail order operations with significant cost savings and quality improvement.”

New Service Program from Automated Packaging Systems Reduces Packaging Costs and Improves Performance

2012-01-23T08:46:00.000-08:00

Automated Packaging Systems has recently enhanced its Systems Advantage™ Program by adding new service, parts and machinery categories most demanded by its customers. Autobag® and SidePouch® users can now leverage a suite of preferred technical services and purchase incentives to get the most value out of their unique packaging operation.

Systems Advantage Select, Plus and Elite programs are designed to optimize packaging productivity based on individual usage levels and requirements. Incentives include machinery purchase incentives, spare parts kits, preventive maintenance agreements, premium delivery service on materials, graphic design support, technical phone support, field service support, and several other priority services.

“The total systems approach to packaging is our commitment to providing customers with the machines, materials and services they need for a smooth and efficient packaging operation,” says Brad Worman, Vice President of Sales and Marketing. “Systems Advantage combines these products and services into a comprehensive program that brings real value to our customers.”
Automated Packaging Systems employs the industry’s largest, factory-direct network of customer and technical services. Replace-n-Repair™ component design, combined with an extensive inventory of replacement parts, ensures customers have fast access to critical components when they need them.

Binder-USA Releases Snap-in Panel-mount Connectors with Dip Solder Contacts

2012-01-23T08:43:00.000-08:00

Binder-USA has expanded the Series 620 snap-in panel-mount receptacles to now offer dip solder contacts. This addition is made in response to the high demand of lightweight snap-in style connectors. The snap-in connectors are ideally suited for commercial and medical applications because of their quick disconnect feature.

The snap-in receptacles are designed with a durable all plastic shell with an outer diameter of only 11.5 mm. Male and female versions are offered with 3, 4, 5, or 8 gold-plated contacts. The connectors are IP67 rated when properly installed and mated ensuring the connection is protected from liquids and debris.

Panel-mount adapters and mating field-attachable connectors and cordsets are available for a complete snap-in connecting solution.

M8 Male Panel-Mount Connectors with Plastic Contact Body

2012-01-23T08:42:00.001-08:00

Binder-USA has modified the Series 718 and 768 M8 panel-mount connectors to now have a plastic contact body. This change was made in order to provide better insulation of the contacts towards the housing compared to the previous metal contact body.

The product change is already in place with the 6-pin version and will occur immediately with the 3- and 4-pin male versions at no additional cost. During the transition period mixed deliveries of old and new versions are possible.

Binder-USA Releases Adjustable M12 Receptacles

2012-01-23T08:41:00.000-08:00

Binder-USA is pleased to announce new receptacles with adjustable angular positions as part of the Series 713, 763, 715 and 766 automation product ranges. The panel-mounted receptacles can be rotated during installation to allow a right-angle cordset to connect in a desired angular position. These M12 A- and B-coded connectors are commonly used for industrial networks and automation applications in harsh environments.

The new receptacles are available in both male and female versions and prewired with 200mm wires. The A-coded connectors are available with 4, 5, 8 and 12 gold-plated contacts. The B-coded connectors are available with 4 and 5 gold-plated contacts. When fully connected to their mating parts the connectors are IP67/IP68 rated ensuring connections are protected from liquids and debris.

Additionally, the housing of the A-coded receptacles has been converted from nickel-plated brass to nickel-plated die-cast zinc. In result terminations are no longer potted since the contact insert is now keyed and locked in the housing.

Binder-USA offers right-angle and straight versions of both field-attachable connectors and cordsets to make a complete connecting system with the new receptacles.

Binder-USA Announces 7/8″ Panel-Mount Connectors with Dip Solder Contacts

2012-01-23T08:39:00.000-08:00

Binder-USA is pleased to announce the addition of 7/8″ panel-mount connectors with dip solder contacts to the Series 820 and 870 connector family. With the dip solder contacts the connectors can now be mounted to a PCB board. The 7/8″ connectors are ideally suited for power supplies, Fieldbus and Ethernet applications.

The new receptacles are available in both male and female versions with 2+PE, 4 and 4+PE gold-plated contacts. Front- and rear-mountable positions allow for the receptacles to be mounted from the back or front of a panel. All versions have UL approval and an IP67 rating ensures connectors are protected while used in harsh environments.

In order to make a complete connecting system the receptacles will mate with the field-attachable connectors and cordsets from the entire Binder 7/8″ connector family.

The TMC389 coolStep™ is The First Energy Efficient High Current, High Precision, Microstepping Driver IC for 3-Phase Bipolar Stepper Motors

2012-01-23T08:35:00.000-08:00

Using low resonance 3-phase stepper motors, smoothness at low speed can be increased significantly compared to a 2-phase stepper motor solution. The unique high resolution, sensorless load detection stallGuard2™ is also used for the world’s first integrated load dependent current control feature called coolStep™.

The ability to read out the load and detect an overload makes the TMC389 an optimum choice for drives where a high reliability is desired at a low cost. With 3-phase motors the adapted spread Cycle 3p PWM automatic mixed decay chopper scheme ensures highest smoothness and best zero crossing performance.

The TMC389 can be driven with step and direction signals as well as by serial SPI™ interface and using the microPlyer x16 allows you to operate the motor with highest μStep smoothness reducing the input frequency divided by 16. A full set of protection and diagnostic features makes this device very rugged. It directly drives external MOSFETs for currents of up to 6A and this way it reaches highest energy efficiency and allows driving of a high motor current without cooling measures even at high environment temperatures.

The main features of the module are stallGuard2™ for sensorless load detection, coolStep™ for load dependent current control, save up to 80% energy and gain supreme smoothness. It also achieves the best current zero crossing performance, the best sine wave form and lowest power dissipation.

In addition there is full protection and diagnostics, standby and shutdown mode stall / load detection output and low power consumption via low RDS-ON power stage.

There is also an evaluation board which comes with the PC software which gives access to every function of the driver. It comes alongside a step and direction interface, a RS232 and a USB port. The TMC389-Eval is a complete ‘plug and play’ solution, additionally only a motor, a PC and a power supply are required!

The Sigma-5 Powerlink from Yaskawa Provides a Communication Profile That Meets Timing Demands for High-Performance Automation and Motion Applications

2012-01-23T08:32:00.000-08:00

The Powerlink is an add-on board, compatible with Sigma-5 series command option attachable type amplifiers type SGDV which offers a wide range of functions. Powerlink is an open real-time Ethernet network supported by the Ethernet Powerlink Standardisation Group. The Powerlink network module offers a wide range of functions based on the EPSG DS 301 and the CiA 402 drive profile standards.

Ethernet POWERLINK (EPL) is a communication profile for Real-Time Ethernet (RTE) that extends Ethernet according to the IEEE 802.3 standard with mechanisms to transfer data with predictable timing and precise synchronisation. The communication profile meets timing demands typical for high-performance automation and motion applications. It does not change basic principles of the Fast Ethernet Standard IEEE 802.3 but extends it towards Real-Time Ethernet.

The Module supports many functions including profile position mode, homing mode, interpolated position mode, profile velocity mode and profile torque mode. The communication rate is up to 100Mbps; there are two standard RJ45 connectors and 4 LEDs for status indication.

It conforms to most required standards: EPSG DS 301 specifications, CiA 402 Drive profile specifications, safety standard UL508, material compliance UL94V-0 and RoHS Directive 2002/95/EC. In addition it meets the WEEE Directive 2002/96/EC, Low Voltage Directive 73/23/EEC and EMC Directive 89/336/EEC.

Introducing the Explosion Proof (ATEX) EX Series Servomotors for Explosive Atmospheres

2012-01-23T08:30:00.000-08:00

Micromech is pleased to announce an important advancement in servomotors with the introduction by Parker Hannifin of a range of explosion proof motors. The EX series is a range of 1,75 to 35Nm permanent magnet synchronous servomotor designed for use in explosive atmospheres. They feature robust explosion-proof housings and are capable of bearing internal explosions with no risks of propagation to the neighbouring environment.

EX servomotors are characterised by excellent motion quality, great acceleration/deceleration capabilities and high torque output over a wide speed range. There are various winding variants and numerous options are available to offer maximum flexibility.

They are available with explosion proof housings CE or UL versions but still have the advantage of a high dynamic performance, compact, robust and bearings greased for life and therefore requiring no maintenance. Flange mounted with smooth holes, a solid smooth shaft as standard and an option of a solid shaft with key.

They have a wide speed range of 2000 to 8000 rpm, voltage supply 230 / 400 VAC 230/ 480 VAC with thermal protection which include thermoswitches and thermofuses integrated to the windings. The standard feedback sensor is a two-pole resolver with options available of Absolute EnDat or Absolute Hiperface encoder.

EX servomotors are group II, category 2, explosion-proof apparatus designed to operate in explosive atmospheres in accordance with EN 50014 standard. These servomotors are certified according to ATEX 94/9/CE directive EN60079-0, EN60079-1, EN61241-0 and EN61241-1. Two models are on offer, a gas version II2 G EEx d IIB T4, IP64 (Gas) a motor for gaseous atmospheres. This motor is not fitted with a lip seal at the shaft end. The second is a Gas/Dust version II2 GD EEx d IIB T4, IP65 Ex tD A21, IP65 T135°C, (Gas and dust) Class 1, Division 1, Group C & D, Ingress protection level IP64 (standard), IP65 (option) IP65 motor for dusty, gaseous atmospheres. This motor is fitted with a lip seal at the shaft end.

EX servomotors can be used for all applications in explosive atmospheres such as chemical, petro-chemical, pharmaceutical industries and waste processing plants. Typical uses will be spray paint booths and systems, robotics applications, pumping and metering, lifting and manipulating printing and plastics machinery.

Introducing the Kollmorgen AKD PDMM™ Multi-Axis Integrated Servo Drive and Automation Controller

2012-01-23T08:27:00.000-08:00

The AKD PDMM ™ available from Micromech, combines one AKD servo axis and a master controller that supports up to eight or more additional AKD axes in a single, compact package. It provides integrated control for multiple high-performance axes, complete I/O and HMI interfaces, and includes the full automation capabilities of Kollmorgen Automation Suite™ giving a single, scalable development environment for both AKD PDMM and PAC-based machines.

Extending customer design options the AKD PDMM controls as many as eight axes or more without the need for a PLC or PAC thus reducing cabinet space and wiring requirements. It is the perfect machine and motion controller for any project using a single, fully integrated programming environment, in so building a better machine at a lower cost.

Kollmorgen Automation Suite™ provides fully Integrated programming, testing, setup and commissioning
Embedded web server utility simplifies service
Control 8 axes or more while reducing machine footprint
EtherCAT multi-axis master motion controller integrated with a standard AKD™ drive axis
Full IEC61131-3 soft PLC for machine control, with support for all 5 programming languages
Choice of PLCopen for motion or Pipe Network™ for programming motion control
32 kB non-volatile memory stores machine data to eliminate scrap upon restart after power failure
SD Card slot simplifies backup and commissioning, with no PC required
Onboard I/O includes 13 digital inputs, 4 digital outputs, 1 analogue input, 1 analogue output (expandable with AKT series of remote I/O)
Works with Kollmorgen Visualisation Builder for programming AKI human-machine interface panels
Enables plug-and-play compatibility with the servomotor provides access to all the advantages of Kollmorgen’s breadth of motor platforms including AKM™, CDDR™ and other direct-drive technologies
Supports real-time performance feedback from Smart Feedback Devices (SFD), EnDat2.2, 01, BiSS, Analogue Sine/Cos encoder, incremental encoder, HIPERFACE®, and resolver
Full-frequency auto-tuning ensures perfect motion across the performance spectrum
Maximum axis count depends on motion/automation complexity and performance (8 axes nominal based on medium complexity at 4 kHz network update rate
The fastest velocity and position loop updates

SIM Card Connectors for "Smarter" Applications

2012-01-23T08:18:00.002-08:00

Whilst SIM cards are synonymous with mobile phones, they are ideal for other applications, allowing real-time communication. The six circuit SIM card connector from GTK has inbuilt card detection and a "push push" mechanism that facilitates positive insertion and removal of the card. This connector is compliant to the GSM 11.11 standard, and has a life of at least 5000 cycles. The connector housing material is 94V-0 plastic, with phosphor bronze surface mount contacts and it works in operating temperatures ranging from - 40°C to + 85°C. The product is supplied as standard in tape and reel format.

The growing volume usage of SIM cards in Smartphones, PC tablet products and smart metering solutions makes them extremely cost effective. Tom Hennessey, Business Manager for Connectors and Cables Assemblies at GTK said, "One of our longstanding utility metering customers uses a SIM card as the communication medium to transmit data back to the utility supplier, for monitoring and billing purposes. Our SIM card connector permits positive registration of the card and locks it into position. We are seeing an increased level of interest for this product in non-mobile applications as OEM's realise its wider potential."

Monochrome to Colour Made Much Easier

2012-01-23T08:18:00.000-08:00

The new combination of TFT with on-board ASIC controller from GTK offers OEM's a number of advantages over the traditional TFT product. It retains all the functionality of traditional TFT's but the additional controller makes programming and interfacing much simpler and the transition from mono graphic to colour displays is easier.

The TFT product is available in 3.5", 4.0", 4.3" and 5.7" sizes as standard. It has wide viewing angles with good contrast and brightness levels, and operates comfortably between temperatures of -20 to +70°C. It also features an 8/9/16/18 bit 80/68 series MCU Interface.

Clive Dickinson, Business Manager for Optoelectronic products at GTK, said, "This product is ideal for OEM's who want to make the transition from a mono to colour TFT display, but have not used graphic modules before or don't have significant in-house R&D and programming resources. The ASIC on-board controller makes the whole process much simpler and helps to accelerate time to market for new products, something which is becoming increasingly important in today's electronics marketplace."

GTK Launches Ultra-Thin Character OLED

2012-01-23T08:17:00.000-08:00

The new character monochrome OLED from GTK represents a step-function leap in performance when compared with traditional character display technologies. The new OLED has what is termed as a 'free viewing angle', in that it can be viewed from all angles without compromise. It is very slim at 2.3mm thickness and has a very high contrast ration of 10,000:1. This product is ideal for harsh environments as it operates in temperatures ranging from -40°C to +80°C. It does not require a backlight for operation, minimising power consumption. This product is available in two sizes and with yellow and white colours as standard. Other colours are available on request.

"For OEM's designing new products requiring a simple character display, this technology is ideal," said Clive Dickinson, Business Manager for Optoelectronic products at GTK. "It's high on performance, low on power consumption and requires less real estate than traditional technologies. The premium paid for this technology is more than traditional LCD technologies but this is more than offset by the advantages it offers in terms of space-saving and performance."

Micro Coax Cable Assemblies from GTK

2012-01-23T08:16:00.000-08:00

The micro miniature coax cable assembly range from GTK can be used in a diverse range of applications including: WLAN radios and access points, handheld computers, PDA’s, test equipment, wireless security, metering and GPS tracking products

These cable assemblies are offered as standard with MHF II and MHF III connectors and can be customised to include other coax connectors such as SMA and FME if required. When using the MHF III connector an extremely low mating height of 1.5mm can be achieved.

These high performing assemblies offer a low insertion loss and wide operating frequency (DC to 6GHz) and are intermateable with the U.Fl and W.Fl connector series.

XP Power Launches 50 - 150 Watt Highly Efficient Waterproof LED Drivers and Power Supplies

2012-01-23T07:24:00.001-08:00

XP Power today announced the DLG series of constant voltage and constant current LED drivers aimed at a broad range of outdoor lighting, security and machine vision applications. These IP67-rated waterproof units are highly efficient, up to 90%, and generate less waste heat than competitor products resulting in an extended operating lifetime. Compliance against the IP67 specification guarantees no ingress of dust, total protection against contact with live parts and immersion in water to a depth of 1 metre.

The series covers the power ranges of 50, 75, 100 and 150 W. Across the range, models are available with constant voltage outputs of +12, + 24, +36 or +48 VDC. A +15, +30, +54 or +57 VDC output is also available, depending on power range Constant current outputs vary from 1.05 to 11.0 A and is model dependent. Accommodating a wide range of input voltage from 90- 305 VAC, they can be used in many outdoor applications and, in particular, suit nominal 277 VAC applications in the US.

The DLG series carry the internationally recognized lighting safety standards of EN61347 and UL8750. In addition, the DLG100 and DLG150 models carry UL/EN60950 making them suitable for a broader range of applications such as data communications and CCTV. The series also comply with the EN55015 Class B specification for conducted and radiated emissions.

The DLG series is available from Newark, Farnell & element14, approved regional distributors, or direct from XP Power and come with a 3 year warranty.

Compact 10 W DC-DC converter meets 3rd edition IEC60601 medical specification for patient connected equipment

2012-01-23T07:21:00.001-08:00

XP Power today announced the JHM10 series of board mounted compact isolated 10 W DC-DC converters. Meeting the ANSI/AAMI ES60601-1:2005 / IEC60601-1 3rd edition medical safety standard and having a maximum leakage current of 2uA, the series meets the stringent international regulatory requirements for patient connected medical equipment. The converters have a reinforced input to output insulation at a working voltage of 250VAC and provide an isolation of up to 4,000 VAC for up to 1 minute, and up to 5,000 VAC for up to 10 milliseconds (defibrillator proof) and, as required by the 3rd edition, have two means of patient protection (MOPP). Isolation capacitance is 20 pF.

The series comprises of three ranges accepting wide 2:1 inputs of 4.5 to 9 VDC, 9 to 18 VDC or 18 to 36 VDC with either single or dual outputs. Single outputs are +5, + 12, or +15 VDC, and duals provide +/- 5, +/- 12 or +/- 15 VDC. The regulated outputs vary no more than +/- 0.3 % under all input conditions and less than +/- 2.0 % under all load conditions. Outputs can be trimmed up to +/- 10% of stated nominal output.

Measuring just 31.75 x 20.32 x 16.5 mm (1.25 x 0.8 x 0.65 inches) these miniature converters fit a standard DIP 24-pin out footprint, keeping board space to a minimum and making them suitable as a drop in replacement part for use in older designs.
The JHM10 series meets EN55011 & EN55022 level A standards for conducted and radiated EMI without the need for any extra external components. Able to operate in most environments, the series can accommodate temperature from – 40 degrees C to + 80 degrees C without any additional heat sinking or forced airflow. The units de-rate above + 50 degrees C and the maximum case temperature is + 100 degrees C.

Suiting a wide range of patient connected medical applications the JHM10 series is perfect for any design that requires a high level of voltage isolation, a low isolation capacitance together with a low level of leakage current.

The JHM10 series is available from Newark, Farnell and element14, approved regional distributors, or direct from XP Power and come with a 3 year warranty.

XP Power launches 250/350 W range of AC-DC supplies in ultra compact 3 x 5 inch footprint

2012-01-23T07:20:00.001-08:00

XP Power today announced the EMH250 and EMH350 series of highly efficient single output 250 Watt and 350 Watt AC-DC power supplies. Meeting the IT equipment safety specifications of UL/TUV/EN 60950-1 and the stringent medical safety standards of UL/TUV/EN 60601-1 the EMH series suit a broad range of information technology, industrial, medical equipment and surgical life support applications. All models are also BF rated.

Both the EMH250 250 W and the EMH350 350 W series have an extra wide input range of 80-275 VAC and are available in four output models covering the nominal voltages of + 12, + 18, + 24 or + 48 VDC. A trim function allows adjustment of the output voltage to within +/- 10% of stated nominal. A +12 VDC / 0.6 A fan supply is also provided across the range. In addition, the EMH350 series includes a +5 VDC / 2.0 A standby supply. Unlike many competitor models, full power is available from low input voltages of 90 VAC and the unit does not derate until +50 degrees C operating temperature.

Measuring just 76.2 127 x 36.3 mm (3 x 5 x 1.43 inches), these industry standard format units require only 12 CFM of forced airflow in order to deliver the full output power. An optional top mounted fan is available across the range, and the EMH350 has the additional option of a variable speed fan that is dependent on the unit’s operating temperature.

The EMH350 series is also available with an optional ORing diode circuit that allows for current sharing in N+1 redundancy configurations. This series provides customers with the choice of either analogue or digital control options. The analogue signals provide Power Fail, Inhibit and Current Share. Digital signals and controls are accessible using PMBus compatible commands.

The EMH series is available from Farnell, Newark and element14 approved regional distributors, or direct from XP Power and come with a 3 year warranty.

XP Power Extends Line-up of Miniature Board Mounted LED Drivers

2012-01-23T07:19:00.001-08:00

XP Power today announced additions to its LDU series of PCB mount DC input constant current LED drivers. Comprising four models offering power outputs of 5, 7, 14 and 20 Watts, these highly efficient LED drivers have a typical efficiency of 93% for the 5 – 14 Watt models and 95% for the 20 Watt devices.

The LDU20 series provides up to 700 mA output current, and the LDU05, 07 and 14 series has a maximum output of 1000 mA. The drivers can accommodate a very wide range of input voltage from 7 – 30 VDC, which needs to be at least 2 V higher than the output.

Dimming options include two analog methods (voltage or resistance) and a pulse width modulation (PWM) input signal. The PWM approach has a maximum operating frequency of 1 kHz, with a minimum 200 ns on/off time. When using an analog dimming method the output current range can be adjusted from 25% to 100% of nominal current.

A remote on/off control input provides the designer the ability to control the output or sequence the start-up. All models provide protection in the event of a short or open circuit of the LED device.

The LDU series suit a broad range of indoor, outdoor, underwater and automotive LED lighting application and are also suitable for battery powered applications. The LDU series is available from Farnell, Newark & element14, approved regional distributors, or direct from XP Power and come with a 3 year warranty.

Brand New Humidity and Temperature Transmitter Series from Vaisala for High Performance HVAC Applications

2012-01-23T07:17:00.001-08:00

Vaisala introduces the next generation of humidity and temperature transmitters for demanding HVAC applications. Combining fit with functionality, the new Vaisala HMW90 Series HUMICAP® Humidity and Temperature Transmitters are designed for indoor environments requiring measurement accuracy and stability that can be depended on.

The Vaisala HMW90 Series comprises wall-mounted humidity and temperature transmitters with a variety of options and features, including special scalings and calculated dew point and mixing ratio parameters. Vaisala's proven HUMICAP® 180R humidity sensor technology, now introduced to HVAC transmitters, guarantees highly accurate measurements and long-term reliability, while innovative design makes the transmitters easy to install, use and calibrate.

For fast and convenient maintenance, the transmitters include an instructive display, which can be hidden behind a solid cover. The front cover slides down, which means that calibration and adjustment interfaces are within easy access without disturbing measurement performance. For field adjustment, all it takes is a screwdriver and a reference instrument - no special tools or software are needed.

The HMW90 Series will be complemented with temperature only models and color cover accessories that ensure a modern finish that blends in any space, making it the perfect choice for any HVAC application.

The Vaisala HMW90 Series HUMICAP® Humidity and Temperature Transmitters are introduced for the first time at the AHR Expo in Chicago on 23-25 January. Our stand number is 3822 - welcome!

New LHS Air Heater Generation Completed!

2012-01-23T07:16:00.000-08:00

All current LE and LHS heaters can be replaced with a model of the latest generation. Mainly the SYSTEM types of the LHS models offer additional features: Those tools have been equipped with an integrated temperature controller which allows constant and precise process temperatures.

The heater’s footprint has been reduced in order to replace even our classic LE-type heaters. With different functional models and a wide range of power ratings there is a suitable heater for just about every possible application.

NSK Develops a Highly Efficient Toroidal Variator Module for Front-wheel Drive Automobiles

2012-01-20T15:55:00.000-08:00

NSK Ltd. (NSK; Headquarters: Tokyo, Japan; President and CEO: Norio Otsuka) today announced that it has developed the world's first*1 toroidal variator1 for use in front-engine, front-wheel drive (FWD) vehicles. The new product surpasses both the multi-step automatic transmission (AT) and the belt-drive continuous variable transmission (CVT) in fuel economy.

NSK will exhibit this product at Tokyo Big Sight (located in Koto Ward in Tokyo) from Wednesday November 30 to Saturday December 11 at the Tokyo Motor Show 2011.

*1 as of November 2011 (NSK Ltd.)

*2 Toroidal variator: A transmission that enables continuously variable shifting without a speed changing gear. It provides a smooth ride and improved fuel economy because it avoids clunky or lurching gearshifts by maintaining the transmission in the optimum gear ratio for engine speed. NSK's new toroidal variator has a wider gear ratio coverage and better efficiency than the toroidal CVT.

Variohm DIN Mounted Multifunctional Instrument Display

2012-01-20T15:52:00.000-08:00

Variohm EuroSensor has launched a new programmable 4-digit instrument display panel with multifunction input configuration for use across its wide range of sensor technologies.

The competitively priced and versatile OM402 from Orbit Merret has a large display capability with a built-in choice of a six character LED display at 14 mm height or four character display at 20 mm height; with the possibility to program the last two characters to show the measured quantity. The DIN rail mounted unit has three integral colour options and can be matched to a variety of selectable input types including DC voltage and current, resistance, dedicated thermometer types and linear potentiometers. Configuration and operational parameters are set and adjusted via five front panel control keys with all functions password protected if required.

Options include 5-24 VDC output to power sensors and transducers, comparators to monitor limit values with relay outputs, data and fieldbus interfaces, analog outputs and time controlled data recording functions.
The full featured OM402 is based upon an 8-bit microcontroller is able to display fixed or adjustable measurement ranges with limit values if required. Compensation for thermocouple applications is also included along with powerful maths functions including Tare and peak value which are all adjustable through external control. The compact unit has a size of DIN 96 x 48 mm.

The OM402 is just one of several Orbit Merret panel and din rail mounted displays available from Variohm EuroSensor. The complete range covers simple to comprehensive measurement display and includes universal input as well as single dedicated input versions with manual or computer programmed functions and industrial network interfaces. Display options include digital, bargraph and large screen instruments with a complete range of options and accessories.

BEI Programmable Industrial Encoder

2012-01-20T15:50:00.000-08:00

New from leading USA encoder specialist BEI and available exclusively in the UK from Variohm EuroSensor, the Omnicoder® is a industrial incremental encoder that offers the flexibility and convenience of user programmable resolution. Based on BEI’s flagship H25 series - a robust and durable encoder with a die-cast aluminium housing, 416 stainless steel shaft and heavy duty ABEC 7 bearings - the BEI Omnicoder is simply connected to a PC using a special USB cable assembly and through an easy-to-use and free of charge user interface, the encoder resolution can be programmed between 1 and 10,000 counts per rev.

Unlike many other programmable encoders available today, the patented control algorithm developed for the Omnicoder ensures that the duty cycle and phase relationship is unaffected at the maximum resolution. The design also ensures that the resolution information is stored redundantly in non-volatile memory making it as reliable as a fixed disc encoder.

Aimed at OEMs, machine builders and integrators who need the flexibility to set encoder resolution in-situ or wishing to reduce the stock inventory associated with using several different fixed resolution encoders, the Omnicoder can also be of benefit in labelling and packaging registration applications where it is desirable to modify the encoder resolution on product change-over.

Variohm Eurosensor provides sales and application support for BEI’s complete range of linear and rotary encoders, electronics and displays.

New MagnetoPot Brings Non-Contact Position Measurement in Membrane-Style Packaging

2012-01-20T15:48:00.000-08:00

The MagnetoPot is new non-contacting linear potentiometer based upon a fully sealed membrane strip and a simple magnet that together provide position feedback from 8 mm to 1200 mm in a low profile and robust design with exceptionally long life capability. Manufactured by USA based membrane sensor experts Spectra Symbol, and available exclusively in the UK from Variohm EuroSensor, the MagnetoPot is ideal for hydraulic and pneumatic position sensing and other medium precision position feedback applications such as liquid level monitoring.

A rotary version is also available for compact, low profile angle sensing.

The MagnetoPot is similar in concept to a traditional membrane type potentiometer but rather than use a contacting wiper to connect the collector to the resistive element, relies upon the interaction of a non-contacting external magnet and an encapsulated magnetic or ferromagnetic strip to determine the electrical output and hence relative position. The thin IP 65 membrane has a typical membrane thickness of less than 3.5 mm - allowing the position sensor to be discretely installed with either the magnet or the membrane strip attached to the moving component.

The standard linear MagnetoPot is available in eleven travel range versions from 12.5 mm to 1000 mm with a choice of 3-pin connection options including Crimplex solder tabs, male pins and a variety of connectors. The electrical specification includes a 10 kΩ resistance output over each linear position range (5 kΩ to 500 kΩ on request) with a linearity of +/- 5%. The positioning resolution is dependent upon the exterior magnet strength and its proximity to the MagnetoPot's magnetic strip. The rotary version is currently available with a 66 mm diameter and an active centre track diameter of 46 mm.

The IP65 rating for the active area for both types of MagnetoPot allows for intense water spray and the non-contact technology effectively yields an extremely long and maintenance free working life.

Variohm EuroSensor Expands Range of Pressure Switches

2012-01-20T15:45:00.000-08:00

Pressure, vacuum and differential pressure switch range grows after distribution partners acquisition of complementary manufacturers product lines.

Variohm EuroSensor has increased its range of pressure, vacuum and differential switches following its USA based distribution partner, World Magnetics Incorporated, recently acquiring two specialist pressure switch manufacturers to complement its existing DesignFlex™ range. The new product lines from Value Engineered Products Inc. and Henry G. Dietz Co, Inc. combine to make Variohm's range of standard and custom designed pressure switches one of the largest available from a UK source; with cost competitive solutions for applications as far reaching as medical equipment to agricultural machinery and from food industry to aerospace.

The DesignFlex range includes ultra sensitive pressure, vacuum and differential pressure switches with a wide variety of housing, mounting, porting, diaphragm and set point configurations covering a pressure range from 0.1" H20 to 50" H20 (0.25 to 125 mbar). Application specific features on certain models include field adjustable set point, controllable hysteresis (deadband), factory calibrated versions for tamperproof use and full military spec' versions. The range is characterised by exceptionally long working life and extremely high reliability.

Value Engineered Products manufactures fluid-actuated switches for sensing vacuum , differential, and dual differential pressure. With fluid types that cover hydraulic oils, ethylene glycols, aircraft fuels, Freon, lubricating oils, water and air, and many more, the range includes diaphragm elements for sensing low pressures down to 0.5 in Hg, and piston elements for high pressure applications for pressures up to 2650 PSIG.

Dietz air pressure switches are aimed at heavy industrial and extreme environmental uses. With a range of 0.05" to 40" H2O, the 170D model is an ultra-low differential pressure switch for applications such as trains, ships and construction equipment where shock and vibration resistance is of paramount importance. Dietz also produce an ultra sensitive pressure switch for extreme environment forced air systems, filters, blowers and exhaust fans up to 2500 fpm.

CGTech to Feature VERICUT CNC Machine Simulation at EuroMold 2011

2012-01-20T15:39:00.000-08:00

CGTech will feature the latest release of VERICUT CNC machine simulation and optimisation software on stand J27 Hall 8 at EuroMold 2011 in Frankfurt on November 29th - December 2nd 2011.

VERICUT is used extensively by manufacturing companies in order to increase the efficiency of CNC machining operations and to eliminate the risk of expensive machine and component collisions.

VERICUT 7.1 features significant enhancements to reduce the time required for manufacturing engineers to easily develop, analyze, inspect and document the CNC programming and machining process. Along with proactively adding new features, CGTech developers and engineers focused on addressing hundreds of customer-driven enhancements. Version 7.1 contains over 400 customer requests and further improvements to VERICUT’s user interaction, simulation capabilities and analysis, cutting tool creation, and CAD/CAM integration. New features include:

VERICUT REVIEWER
This collaboration tool allows 3D simulations to be shared with anyone in the company without the need for a VERICUT license. The Reviewer can play forward and backward while removing and replacing material. Error messages and NC program text is highlighted when a collision on the stock or fixture is selected. A tool path line display is optional. The user can rotate, pan and zoom just like normal VERICUT, and the cut stock can be measured using all the standard X-caliper tools. The Reviewer file can be saved at any point in a VERICUT session.

CAD MODEL ASSEMBLY
Leading cutting tool manufacturers are increasingly making their toold available in 3D model format for use in CAD/CAM systems This feature supports STEP, CATIA, and Siemens NX model types. and allows 3D tools to be imported directly into the VERICUT Tool Manager..

MACHINE TOOL COMPATIBILITY
VERICUT simulates all types of CNC machine tools, including those from leading manufacturers such as Mori Seiki, Mazak, Makino, Matsuura, Hermle, DMG and Chiron.

CAD/CAM INTEGRATION
VERICUT runs standalone, but can also be integrated with leading CAM systems such as Catia, Siemens NX, PTC Creo, MasterCAM, EdgeCAM, GibbsCAM,Open Mind HyperMILL, Delcam PowerMill and Missler TopSolidCAM. New interaces are also available for Delcam FeatureCAM, SolidCAM, InventorCAM and Esprit.

CGTech to Feature NEW Drilling and Assembly Software at Aero Engineering and Composites Engineering Show

2012-01-20T15:37:00.000-08:00

CGTech will be exhibiting at the AeroEngineering and Composites Engineering Show on stand 622. The stand will feature the latest versions of CGTech’s VERICUT software products for both Machine Tool Simulation and Automated Fibre Placement (AFP) programming and simulation. In addition CGTech will present the first UK preview of a new product for programming and simulation of Automated Drilling and Fastening machines.

VERICUT Drilling & Fastening is a new software application for simulating and programming auto-drilling and fastening machines. These machines are used to assemble large aero-structures and it is essential to avoid programming errors and collisions at such a late stage in the aircraft manufacturing process. VERICUT allows the user to programme drilling and fastener assembly operations in a virtual machine tool environment and provides simulation to check for a variety of potentially disastrous error conditions. Like all VERICUT software the new product interfaces to leading CAD/CAM/PLM systems and is independent of the assembly machine manufacturer.

VERICUT COMPOSITES APPLICATIONS

CGTech will be demonstrating VERICUT Composite Applications: VERICUT composite Programming (VCP) and VERICUT Composite Simulation (VCS).

There will be demonstrations of projects that highlight the implementation and use of CAD/CAM and machine independent off-line NC programming software for AFP machines.

VERICUT MACHINE TOOL SIMULATION

CGTech will also be exhibiting version 7.1 of it’s market leading VERICUT CNC machine simulation and optimization software. VERICUT simulates all types of CNC machining, including aerospace processes such as multi axis milling, drilling and trimming of composite parts, water jet cutting, robotic and mill/turn machining. VERICUT runs standalone, but can also be integrated with leading CAD/CAM/PLM systems including Dassault Systemes Catia, Siemens NX, PTC, Delcam PowerMill and Open Mind Hypermill.

HANS KOLB Wellpappe Uses a Zwick Software Solution

2012-01-20T15:29:00.000-08:00

The large number of test applications in the paper industry means that quality assurance requires many widely varying tests. To enable all results to be evaluated together, Kolb Wellpappe employs a specially produced customized database.

Managing all test parameters in one database

The customized connection to this database is via testXpert II for all tests (BCT, CCT, CMT, ECT, FCT, BST, PET, SCT, measurement of specimen weight and thickness etc. etc.). Depending on the type of test (paper, corrugated board etc.), the associated parameters are available in testXpert II. Testing is simplified for the operator by the automatic transfer of a wide range of values from the database on the basis of an item number.

Instruments by other manufacturers (Sartorius, Büchel, Frank, Mahr), as well as by Zwick, are connected to testXpert. This means that the tester works with the same user interface for all instruments and does not have to operate a variety of different software. For each instrument the results are displayed in testXpert II and transferred to the database via testXpert II. It is also possible to check at each workstation which tests have already been performed and decide which tests must still be carried out.

Testing Support Mats for Catalytic Converters/Diesel Particle Filters

2012-01-20T15:27:00.000-08:00

Support mats are functional components of exhaust systems, their purpose being to provide a reliable mounting for the catalyst or diesel particle filter under high thermal loads and expansion, while providing a secure seal to prevent exhaust gases bypassing the catalyst.

To determine the compressive behavior of these support mats under simulated exhaust system conditions, Zwick has developed a high-precision testing machine for use in temperatures up to 1050°C with possible simultaneous gap change.

The testing machine can also be used to determine friction coefficients under all relevant conditions. It is used mainly for development work (fundamental research) at the Faurecia factory in Augsburg, Germany, and also for quality control.

Inside catalytic converters and diesel particle filters there is a sensitive ceramic material. It must be shielded from mechanical loads throughout its life and must always be adequately supported, which means that the differing expansion rates of the metal exhaust system casing and the ceramic insert must be effectively evened out in all operating conditions. This is achieved with support mats made of high-temperature insulation wool.

The support mats must therefore be highly durable at exhaust temperatures up to 1050°C and at the same time possess certain defined mechanical properties. To characterize the mechanical and thermal properties of catalytic converter support mats, the pressure curve over time (‘ageing experiment’) and the friction coefficient of the material are determined under temperature and pressure influence. Zwick has built a materials testing machine with an additional, horizontal test axis, with which the mechanical and thermal material properties of catalytic converter support mats at service temperatures of up to 1050°C can be determined very accurately. Augsburg company Faurecia, which produces around 2.5 million catalytic converters annually, uses these testing machines for research and also for series production checks in order to meet automobile manufacturers’ demanding quality requirements.

The testing machine is equipped with two 10kN compression platens which can be heated up to 1050°C and are used to apply the vertical force for determining stiffness. At these high temperatures, it is necessary to use a non-contact extensometer to measure the separation between the hot compression platens. For simultaneous determination of the friction coefficient, two layers of the material to be tested are placed between the two compression platens. The layers of material are separated in the middle by a metal sheet onto which a horizontal force can act to generate frictional forces.

When the compression platens have reached the test temperature, controlled compression of the support mat begins. During this, controlled reduction of the compression platen separation is achieved by means of a laser extensometer with an accuracy of ± 5 μm and the resulting compressive force is measured with a load cell located in the load train. The second, horizontal test axis consists of an electro-mechanical 5kN actuator which moves the metal sheet horizontally between the two layers of material. The force required for this is recorded by a separate load cell and is then converted to the temperature-specific friction coefficient. This actuator can be operated independently of the vertical axis or synchronized with it.

Zwick has developed a unique solution that supports investigations into the mechanical viability of scaffold-guided regenerated tissue

2012-01-20T15:23:00.000-08:00

Tissue Engineering is an area that leverages the principles of engineering and life sciences to support the development of biological structures as clinical therapies that are deployed to restore or replace tissue or organs. The goal of tissue engineering is to optimize conditions for the development of replacement tissue and organs, emphasizing autologous cell growth, scaffolding material selection, surface chemistry, and mechanical viability. The results of research and development efforts in this field are anticipated to address patient needs ranging from acute trauma to chronic illness.

The repair of skin is an area of tissue engineering that is undergoing active research and has had some early successes. In this application area, cells are implanted in a biodegradable scaffold which supports the growth of new cells. Once the cells have grown to the desired level of concentration, the scaffold is affixed to the damaged area where it continues to grow and heal the wound. A common scaffolding material for this application is collagen gel which has been shown to possess the characteristics desirable for cell growth in that it is available in abundance and mechanically viable. Material selection for scaffolding is, however, only one of many challenges involved in this field.

In developing clinically safe and effective therapies, regenerative medicine researchers must address challenges that span the scientific disciplines. Perfecting the surface chemistry of the scaffold, determining the proper sequence of events to optimize conditions for cell growth, and ensuring mechanical viability are issues that researchers in this field must investigate.

Recognizing these challenges, Zwick has developed a unique solution that supports investigations into the mechanical viability of scaffold-guided regenerated tissue. Responding to the complete spectrum of customer needs in the area of mechanical viability, Zwick offers the mediX0.1 biaxial testing machine which supports the analysis of both natural and artificially-developed tissue. Due to the anisotropic behavior of tissue, characterization in dual axes is desirable to obtain a complete understanding of mechanical viability.

Zwick’s Short Clamping-Length Grips See Increasing Use in Automotive Industry

2012-01-20T15:21:00.000-08:00

More and more tests require short specimens or short clamping lengths to be gripped and held securely in standard specimen grips. Innovative hydraulic grips developed by Zwick especially for these applications are increasingly being used for quality assurance testing in the automotive industry.

The ever-growing demands on active and passive vehicle safety have resulted in significant changes in safety design. Many different process stages (heat treatment, forming, welding, riveting, bonding) are involved in the manufacture of structural components such as bumper assemblies or A and B pillars. In order to be able to check material properties accurately following each production step, specimens must be produced directly from the structural components. Due to the small surface areas involved these specimens are of necessity very small and could not be held securely and tested using existing specimen grips.

The new hydraulic grips close symmetrically. The patented precision mechanical guidance system fitted to the two hydraulic actuators actively counteracts the high tilting moments which arise on guides and actuators where short clamping lengths are involved. This provides parallel, uniform gripping of short specimen ends (= short clamping lengths) throughout the test. The guidance system also automatically ensures accurate alignment in the test and force axis. These new Zwick grips therefore guarantee reproducible testing of material properties directly after production stages.

Short specimens often rule out the use of conventional contact extensometers. An alternative solution for this application is offered by Zwick’s special optical extensometers (e.g. laserXtens Compact, videoXtens), which enable reproducible non-contact strain measurement on even the shortest or most inaccessible specimens.

The grips are available up to Fmax 250 kN and can be used for both flat and round specimens.

SEALLESS PUMPS HELP TO SOLVE 'STICKY' PROBLEM

2012-01-20T15:17:00.000-08:00

Pumping resinous glue at high temperatures presents a sticky problem for certain types of pump, especially when there is an added complication of the glue containing particulates. This challenging pumping application is part of the process of manufacturing Oriented Strand Board (OSB) a timber based building product which is similar to plywood. However, Hydra-Cell sealless positive displacement pumps, available from Michael Smith Engineers have proved to be successful on this application, where other types of pump have failed.

OSB is recognised as an innovative, environmentally sustainable timber based material for both structural and non-structural building applications and is manufactured by compressing strands of wood with resins at high temperature to create strong and versatile panels. Originally gear pumps were being used to deliver the resinous glue into a mixing chamber, where it is sprayed onto wood fibres in the early stages of the manufacturing process.

Chosen for their high pressure capability, these pumps leaked persistently through their mechanical seals causing damage to them when hardened resin became trapped between closely meshing gears. This resulted in the need for the pumps and gearbox to be replaced three times on one month.

The installation of a Hydra-Cell pump at this stage of the process immediately solved the problem by providing reliable, high pressure pumping of the resinous glue. The sealless design of these pumps means no dynamic seals to leak, wear or replace and their spring-loaded, horizontal disk check valves enable the pump to process liquids which contain particulates up to 500 or greater microns in diameter without problems. Following 6 months of trouble-free operation, the second pumping system was installed on the process with the same successful results for the Oriented Strand Board manufacturer.

The range of Hydra-Cell pumps covers flow rates from 0.4 lit/min up to 128 lit/min and pressures up to 172 bar, providing repeatable and accurate output. They can handle dirty liquids with particulates and because they are sealless by design, leak free, self priming and can be run dry, they are also ideal for cleaning (CIP) applications. Other applications include: machine tool cooling, reverse osmosis and separation, spray drying and abrasives, paper mill applications and oil production and refining.

NEW ADDITION TO MICRO ANNULAR GEAR PUMP RANGE

2012-01-20T15:14:00.000-08:00

Outstanding resistance to both wear and chemical attack are among the key features of the HNP 11558 micro annular gear pump, recently added to the established range of HNP MZR internal gear pumps. Available from pumping specialists Michael Smith Engineers the HNP 11558 pump features the toughest, most chemically resistant materials for its key components and incorporates a magnetic coupling to ensure leak free pumping.

For example, ceramics for bearings and shaft, rotors of zirconium oxide, alloy C22 for case components, which results in a pump able to withstand the most aggressive and corrosive media. The HNP 11558 pump is designed to deliver smooth, precise pulse-less flows (CV<1% at low volumes) at high differential pressures up to 60 Bar and is ideally suited to critical fluids handling applications.

This compact pump, which measures just 301 x 130 x 129 mm (L,W,H) and weighs around 12 kg, delivers flow rates from as little as 0.19 ml/min up to 1152 ml/min. It incorporates a dynamic brushless precision motor with a 500 count per rotation encoder.

Successful applications for HNP pumps have included pumping organic compounds in continuous procesing systems in pharmaceuticals manufacturing, accurate pulse-less small capacity dosing of flavours and additives in food processing equipment and precise,smooth filling of medical capsules.

TOUGH AND EASY-TO-MAINTAIN HEAVY DUTY GEAR PUMPS

2012-01-20T15:12:00.001-08:00

Viking Universal Seal Pumps are designed to meet the demands of heavy duty, industrial pumping applications and incorporate essential features for reliable, low maintenance pumping, even in the most challenging environments.

Available from pumping specialists, Michael Smith Engineers, this range of internal gear pumps comprises 12 standard size options providing flow rates up to a maximum of 365 m3/hr and pressures to 14 bar. An important feature of Viking Universal Seal Pumps is that they are designed to accommodate virtually all types of seal. These can be packing, component or cartridge mechanical seals which can be easily fitted, usually without bracket modifications. This means that operators have the flexibility to benefit from the latest sealing technology to both maximise performance and to meet the ever-changing fugitive emissions standards.

Viking Universal Seal Pumps are easy to maintain as the simple design of their internal gear pumps means that there are only two moving parts. The back pullout design of the seal housing allows drive end access to the pump seal for quick and easy replacement without removing the pump or rotor, helping to keep downtime to a minimum. The seal housing is a solid one-piece cast bracket which helps reduce shaft deflection, so prolonging seal life.

The pumps are equipped with heavy duty bearings and bushings and so support of the pump shaft is enhanced which in turn helps extend the life of the pump and the seal.

As well as accommodating virtually all types of seal, the Universal Seal pumps are available in wide range of construction materials including cast iron, ductile iron, cast steel, stainless steel and alloy C allowing broad chemical compatibility with a huge range of liquids. There are also jacketing options available for all the critical areas of the pumps including the bracket, seal, casing, flanges, head and relief valve. This ensures that key components can be heated or cooled rapidly and accurately so allowing faster start-up and providing uniform, accurate temperature control.

The pumps can handle a wide range of liquids with viscosities from 0.1 to 440,000 cSt and are suitable for operation in applications with temperatures of -85 Deg C to + 425 Deg C. They are ideal for high volume, continuous duty liquids transfer across many industry sectors including, general processing, chemicals, food & beverage, oil & gas, refining, plastics, resins and rubber and pulp & paper.

COMPACT "ARMOUR PLATED" MICROPUMP IS IDEAL FOR ABRASIVES

2012-01-20T15:11:00.000-08:00

Pumping fluids which contain abrasive particles, such as those found in inks and paints can have a detrimental effect on pump performance with erosion being a key factor in reducing pump life. With these challenging fluids in mind MICHAEL SMITH ENGINEERS has introduced the White Ink pump, the latest addition to the MICROPUMP range.

This modified GJ series Micropump was originally designed for ink jet applications and has the ability to cope with titanium pigmented inks, (those containing 7 micron titanium particles). The pump's key wetted components have been effectively 'armour plated' so they are able to withstand corrosive and abrasive fluids. For solvent based fluids, the White Ink pump features metal gears with ceramic shafts and a pump head of specially hardened stainless steel. For water based fluids, the hardened stainless steel body parts are titanium coated to overcome any possible corrosion issues.

These compact and lightweight, leakfree magnet drive gear pumps are designed to provide flow rates of around 3 lit/min, can generate a maximum differential pressure of 5.6 Bar and can be operated on liquids with viscosities up to 1500 cP at temperatures up to 100ºC.

The external gear design ensures smooth, pulse-free and highly accurate output, so the distribution of process fluids is even and constant, as opposed to the more unpredictable pulsed flows from other types of pump.

Saint-Gobain Solar Expert Explains Industry Growth, Impact on Energy Producers and Suppliers in New Video Q&A

2012-01-16T20:50:00.000-08:00

With the unprecedented growth of the United States solar industry in 2010 likely to continue, energy providers and their suppliers are still decoding the boom’s impact on their long-term goals and bottom line. A veteran industry executive from Saint-Gobain confronts these issues in a newly released questions and answers (Q&A) video format, and offers guidance on the steps solar industry players must take to remain competitive.

According to Janaki Weiden, Global Market Manager, SOLGLIDE®, the recent – and in some cases, rapid – growth of the solar industry in the US, Asia, parts of South and Central America, and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region is increasing competition among solar energy producers and their suppliers as the influx of industry players places downward pressure on pricing per watt.

To remain competitive, these companies must reduce costs. Solar energy producers will rely more heavily on the durability and efficiency of production technologies, so it is imperative that products such as parabolic troughs perform flawlessly throughout their lifetime.

Weiden emphasizes that the way to ensure that solar energy technologies maximize output is through collaborative design. He discusses Saint-Gobain’s own collaborative approach to designing custom solutions for Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contractors and structure suppliers, citing the company’s research and development (R&D) capabilities and global presence as key factors enabling anticipation of upcoming market trends when designing custom solutions.

He urges that members of the value chain must come together early in the design process to determine what needs should be addressed both in the short-term and long-term scope of Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) and photovoltaic (PV) developments. Having multiple perspectives and a broader understanding of the industry’s direction is essential to designing effective long-term innovations.

“Market and customer insight are playing a key role here,” Weiden said. “These will enable suppliers to [the solar] industry to create cost-efficient and sustainable solutions at the same time...products have to be durable and long-lasting to withstand a physically dynamic environment. This will then have a positive impact on the maintenance cost [of CSP and PV solution-like tracking systems].”

Even small components can be critical to enhancing the performance and minimizing the costs of larger solar technologies. Weiden references the company’s recently launched SOLGLIDE® T and SOLGLIDE® M families of bearings as examples of components that can have a significant impact on the efficiency of larger technologies. Both lines of bearings reduce friction and wear by 50 percent compared to other models on the market to maintain the tracking performance of actuating systems over the lifespan of the equipment.

SAINT-GOBAIN SOLAR SHOWCASES SOLGLIDE® M AND SOLGLIDE® T BEARINGS AT EU PVSEC TO REDUCE MAINTENANCE, LABOUR AND COSTS

2012-01-16T20:47:00.000-08:00

SOLGLIDE® T and SOLGLIDE® M families of bearings, launched by Saint-Gobain Solar, reduce the costs of initial investment, operations and maintenance for solar tracking systems in solar power plants. The bearings will be showcased at the European Photovoltaic Solar Energy Conference and Exhibition (26th EU PVSEC), 5-8 September, in Hamburg, Germany, Booth B7/B42.

Both types of bearings reduce friction and wear by 50 percent compared to other models on the market, maintaining the tracking performance of actuating systems over the lifespan of the bearing. Besides offering enhanced performance and cost and labour savings, the SOLGLIDE® T and SOLGLIDE® M bearings enable solar companies to reduce their carbon footprint by locally sourcing components from one of Saint-Gobain’s production facilities in their region.

Friction at the pivot point of the actuators can impair the accuracy and efficiency of solar tracking systems. Saint-Gobain’s SOLGLIDE® T and SOLGLIDE® M contain non-corrosive, durable materials, which help minimise the higher levels of friction that can occur over the lifetime of the bearing. Without the build-up of friction, the motion of the actuators is not limited, ensuring higher levels of accuracy in tracking and less manual labour required to adjust the actuators to counter-act additional resistance.

Free of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and heavy metals, SOLGLIDE® T and SOLGLIDE® M bearings are designed with a unique fluoropolymer to be chemically resistant and self-lubricating. One-hundred percent weather-proof, they perform under a wide temperature range (between -200°C and 260°C) and exhibit no corrosion or loss of integrity under ultraviolet (UV) light.

“In setting out to design a long-lasting, non-corrosive and more sustainable bearing for solar applications, we took into consideration the other pain points of solar plant maintenance,” said Janaki Weiden, SOLGLIDE® Manager, Saint-Gobain Solar. “These were issues such as labour and costs that can result from long-term wear and we equipped the SOLGLIDE® T and the SOLGLIDE® M to tackle these issues in different ways.”

What differentiates the SOLGLIDE® T from the SOLGLIDE® M bearings are their uses and other material components. The SOLGLIDE® M family of bearings comes standard at 1.57 mm thick with all stainless steel backings, providing an economical and sustainable solution for applications requiring long-time durability and load requirements in challenging environments. The stainless steel material provides superior corrosion resistance and load capability, enabling Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contractors to construct the actuator with a smaller shaft to save on material costs.

SOLGLIDE® T bearings are available with a 1.5 mm thick steel backing, in which the sliding layer is a proprietary polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) based compound. The SOLGLIDE® T model is also available with a 3 mm thick aluminium backing, offering an easy “drop in” solution as well as superior structure capability when paired with aluminium frames. This prevents the challenges presented by bearings composed of other, less compatible materials which can react with the aluminium to speed corrosion or require changes in the actuator design to account for different coefficients of thermal expansion.

Dimensions of the bearings are customisable and Saint-Gobain experts will work with manufacturers to determine which sizes work best for their particular applications. Saint-Gobain Solar also offers product testing capabilities to ensure that the bearings will function flawlessly in the given application.

Lightweight Differentials Create Space

2012-01-16T20:43:00.000-08:00

More compact, lighter, quieter, more efficient and with higher performance – These are the attributes of the new, innovative lightweight differential from Schaeffler’s INA brand. This is made possible by a completely new differential design.

The architecture of this space-saving component is completely different from traditional differential designs. Instead of using conventional differential pinions, the lightweight differential has spur gears arranged as a planetary gear set in one plane, as used in automatic transmissions.

This means that the required space and weight are significantly reduced and the potential torque capacity is noticeably increased. “The lightweight or spur gear differential has enormous advantages”, explains Dr. Tomas Smetana, Head of Advance Development at the Transmission Business Unit, Schaeffler Automotive. “We save up to 30 percent weight compared with a classic bevel gear differential while creating up to 70 percent more axial space due to the streamlined design. In specific terms, this means a reduction in mass of up to three kilograms per differential and 90 millimeters of additional space in the transmission!” The lightweight differential is thus an appropriate response to the challenge of increasing engine torques and the space gained in the transmission creates more room for larger double clutches or transfer boxes, as well as electronic components for modern hybrid solutions.

“The narrow lightweight differential design also allows the use of new bearing concepts with optimized friction and makes a measurable contribution to reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions”, says Norbert Indlekofer, member of the Executive Board and responsible for transmission systems at Schaeffler.

In addition, the lightweight differential – beyond creating space for hybrid modules – is also a key element for the innovative eDifferential from Schaeffler. This component combines an electric drive with the option of controlling the drive power in each wheel individually. The active electric differential gives a significant improvement in load transmission when travelling on surfaces with varying friction values. It also supports the steering function. This facilitates torque vectoring (distribution of torque between the left and right wheel), which is beneficial for driving dynamics, safety and comfort. If eDifferentials are used on both axles, this also enables the longitudinal distribution of drive torques. It is also possible to intervene in driving dynamics through selective power supply instead of through braking intervention and thus power reduction as is the case with ESP. With the solution presented in the Schaeffler concept vehicle ACTIVeDRIVE, the mobility supplier is showing the way ahead for such an electric concept in a vehicle drive system.

ACTIVeDRIVE - Electric Vehicle with Active Torque Distribution

2012-01-16T20:40:00.000-08:00

Schaeffler is presenting its ACTIVeDRIVE concept vehicle for electric mobility. It complements the trio of demo vehicles with which Schaeffler is visualizing the spectrum of modern automobility. “These three cars are full of ideas and function as platforms for the testing of various components and systems under realistic conditions,” says Prof. Dr.-Ing. Peter Gutzmer, Member of the Executive Board and responsible for technical development at Schaeffler.

The ACTIVeDRIVE is a purely electric vehicle with four-wheel drive, based on a Skoda Octavia Scout. The three vehicles – CO2ncept-10%, Schaeffler Hybrid and ACTIVe-DRIVE – represent Schaeffler’s broad-spectrum strategy and product portfolio.

    With its CO2ncept-10% vehicle based on the Porsche Cayenne, Schaeffler is impressively demonstrating the improvement potentials that can be achieved through consistent detailed work on vehicles with internal combustion engines. In the case of the CO2ncept-10%, these optimization measures cover detailed solutions that are already available or close to series production, but do not touch the basic configuration. Moreover, the optimization of the classic drive train also includes the use of electrified components instead of the previous hydraulically actuated elements.
    Based on a compact Opel Corsa, the Schaeffler Hybrid serves as an ‘ideas’ vehicle and a practice-oriented testing laboratory for various hybrid solutions. This versatile and variable advance development project enables a practical comparison of a wide range of options in the field of electric mobility. The driving modes represented range from classic operation with internal combustion engine and operating modes as parallel and serial hybrid with range extender to fully electric driving.
    The ACTIVeDRIVE is a thoroughbred electric vehicle (BEV: Battery Electric Vehicle).

These three vehicles provide an overview of Schaeffler’s wide product portfolio which ranges from energy-efficient solutions for the classic drive train with internal combustion engine all the way through to products for hybrid vehicles and elements for purely electric vehicles.

The major innovation of the Schaeffler ACTIVeDRIVE is its active electric differential (eDifferential) which is installed both on the front and on the rear axles. This component combines the electric drive with the option of wheel-selective drive power control. This enables torque vectoring (torque distribution between the right and the left wheel), which enhances driving dynamics, driving safety and driving comfort. “The eDifferential permits active intervening in driving dynamics through well-aimed power supply – instead of braking intervention and thus power reduction, as is the case with the ESP. The active electric differential significantly improves power transmission when driving on surfaces with different friction coefficients. Moreover it assists the steering and has a clearly positive effect on driving dynamics, driving safety and driving comfort. In addition, the use of two eDifferentials enables the longitudinal distribution of drive torques,” explains Prof. Dr.-Ing. Gutzmer. The possibility of active longitudinal and lateral distribution of drive torques makes the eDifferential an ideal platform for innovative vehicle dynamics control systems. With the solution shown in the ACTIVeDRIVE, Schaeffler is a pioneer in such electric concepts for vehicle drives.

The actively controllable torque distribution enables torque vectoring, which means that the vehicle can be controlled virtually without the use of steering and braking by means of a wheel-selective flow of forces. “So the potential fields of application for the eDifferential range from sports cars with extremely high driving dynamics and vehicles of classic automobile categories to agricultural machines,” explains Dr. Tomas Smetana, Senior Manager Advance Development Power Transmission Systems at Schaeffler Automotive.

The eDifferential system integrates two water-cooled permanent magnet synchronous machines (PMSM) of different dimensions, a planetary gear, a gearbox for active torque distribution and – a central element – a Schaeffler lightweight differential. The electric machines come from Schaeffler’s brand IDAM. The larger PMSM, which delivers up to 105 kW and 170 Nm, is responsible for the drive. The second PMSM, which controls the torque distribution, must deliver merely 5 kW output to generate up to 2000 Nm of torque difference to the axle. Other innovations shown in conjunction with the ACTIVeDRIVE include an integrated electromechanical parking lock, a new forced lubrication system without oil pump for the gearbox, sheet metal planetary carriers and various high-speed and friction-optimized bearing solutions. The electronic control is supplied by AFT and thus comes from Schaeffler as well.

Due to the use of two active electric differentials, the concept car has an overall output of up to 210 kW and features four-wheel drive. Fitted in the cardan tunnel and in front of the rear axle, Li-ion batteries with a capacity of 18 kWh function as energy storage devices. Thanks to its performance and traction capacity, the 1,900-kilogram test platform accelerates from a standstill to 100 km/h in merely 8.5 seconds. There is an electronic top speed regulation at 150 km/h. The vehicle’s cruise range in this configuration amounts to up to 100 kilometers.

Schaeffler Pursues Holistic Approach with Regard to Electric Mobility

2012-01-16T20:32:00.000-08:00

Schaeffler is bundling its numerous activities relating to electric mobility in an eMobility Systems Division. Schaeffler is thereby pursuing a holistic approach that integrates the expertise of both the Automotive and Industrial divisions. “Electric mobility is generating sustained and growing interest. As a development partner and supplier, we must react to this development”, says Rolf Najork, Development Director of Transmission Systems and Electric Drives at Schaeffler. Accordingly, Schaeffler is creating an eMobilitySystems Division for the purpose of combining the numerous individual competencies and developing the market at systems level.

“Suppliers play an active role in the development of electric mobility. With innovations and future-oriented products, they make an important contribution to progress and securing the future, which are always associated with considerable investments”, says Prof. Peter Gutzmer, Member of the Board of Management and Chief Technology Officer at Schaeffler. “With the eMobility Systems Division, we are also creating structures at an international level that will enable us to cover this important field in its entirety.”

The eMobility Systems Division will initially provide jobs for 300 employees. Development capacities at Schaeffler’s locations in Herzogenaurach, Bühl and Suhl will be expanded accordingly. Activities relating to electric mobility will also be increased at Schaeffler’s development locations in China and North America. Schaeffler is searching for engineers with qualifications in technical subjects, natural scientists and industrial engineers.

“Schaeffler offers excellent opportunities for starting and developing a career in an international environment and in an important market segment that is at the cutting edge of technology. Our product range includes key components for the entire electric drive train and solutions for drives in hybrid vehicles and electric cars. Mechatronics is playing an increasingly significant role”, says Rolf Najork. “Our innovations are used in both automotive and industrial environments.“

The product range already includes numerous solutions relating to electric mobility. The range extends from sensor bottom brackets for so-called pedelecs, start-stop solutions and hybrid clutches right up to electric drives. Schaeffler has made a name for itself, for example, with the hybrid solutions presented in the “car full of ideas”, the ”Schaeffler Hybrid, and the wheel hub drive eWheel Drive, as well as the eDifferential presented in the concept vehicle ACTIVeDRIVE. The product range is rounded out by special bearing solutions in the renewable energy sector.

Double Clutch Transmissions - An Interplay of Innovations

2012-01-16T20:30:00.000-08:00

The dry double clutch is the key element of what is the most efficient type of transmission worldwide. The number of carmakers and their customers who have been persuaded by the benefits of this highly innovative technology, which has been available since 2008, has risen strongly. Through the use of dry clutch linings, it has been possible to make significant improvements in the energy efficiency of double clutch transmissions capable of shifting without any interruption to traction power. An advantage is gained in terms of efficiency since there is no need to provide the oil volume flow that would otherwise be required for cooling purposes in so-called wet solutions. In comparison with a classical manual transmission, the lightning fast gearshifting of this transmission technology gives fuel consumption benefits of up to six percent. The essential advantage of this transmission technology is the combination of efficiency and driving enjoyment.

The dry double clutch – the heart of this efficient transmission technology – is composed of many more parts than is suggested by the term. Together with the electromechanical clutch, the component now supplied in millions of units by the LuK brand of Schaeffler consists of more than 500 individual parts that are produced – depending on the customer’s location – in Europe, North America and Asia and joined together to create a fully coordinated unit. “We currently manufacture more than 100,000 dry double clutches per month” explains Norbert Indlekofer, Member of the Executive Board responsible for transmission systems, “and the number of customers and applications is continually on the increase.”

The double clutch is, however, by no means the only contribution made by Schaeffler to this transmission technology. The system is completed by dual mass flywheels specially tailored to the requirements of double clutch transmissions. The dual mass flywheel acts as a torsion damper and prevents the torsional vibrations originating in the engine from being transmitted into the drive train. It prevents the occurrence of any body boom and so-called gear rattle. It thus makes a decisive contribution towards increasing driving comfort and to driving in fuel-efficient operating points.

The Schaeffler product range also extends well beyond the clutch and damping elements from LuK. It also includes an engagement system designed for double clutch applications. This comprises an engagement bearing and engagement lever and is fitted, depending on the application, with electrohydraulic or electromechanical actuator system. The Schaeffler portfolio for double clutch products also includes the development of control devices that simplify the clutch and actuation mechanism and represent a further component for automated clutch activation.

Furthermore – as with manual or automatic transmissions – a large number of bearing solutions from Schaeffler specifically designed for the requirements of transmissions contribute to the success of double clutch transmissions. These include needle roller bearings, cylindrical roller bearings, angular contact ball bearings and synchro rings under the Schaeffler brand INA as well as various tapered roller bearings and ball bearings under the Schaeffler brand FAG. “As a result, the total number of individual parts from Schaeffler in a double clutch transmission runs into the thousands” says Norbert Indlekofer. “In addition, these individual parts are matched to each other and tailored to the specific customer requirements. The perfect interplay is part of the energy-efficient innovation that is celebrating a considerable triumph.”

ZEMIC BM24R Load Cell with OIML Approval

2012-01-16T20:24:00.000-08:00

Low profile IP68 load cell - 60 kg to 60 ton range with OIML approval for legal-for-trade accuracy – suits process, bulk handling, food, platform and hoppers

Variohm EuroSensor has increased its range of high capacity load cells with the new low-profile BM24R series from its exclusive distribution partner ZEMIC. The range has C3, C4, and C5 OIML R60 approval categories for legal-for-trade accuracy covering loads from 60kg to 60t in seven sizes - spanning 63 mm to 140 mm nominal diameter. The hermetically sealed load cell is finished in stainless steel with laser welded diaphragms and a glass to metal cable entry. With IP66 or optional IP68 ingress protection, the BM24R is well suited for use on platform, tank or hopper weighing systems in washdown and harsh environments across the food & beverage, chemical and process industries.

The NMI (NL) have recently concluded that the BM24R has a Y‐value of 10000 for the standard C3 approval and a Y‐value up to 25000 for a C5 approval. The load cell range is also available with ATEX classification and various mounting accessories.

Variohm EuroSensor provides complete technical support across the comprehensive ZEMIC range from pre-sale consultation through delivery and after sales service for standard load cells and customised designs.

Angular Displacement Measurement - Flex Sensor - Low Cost Option

2012-01-16T20:05:00.000-08:00

Variohm EuroSensor has introduced a new low cost angle displacement sensor from Spectra Symbol, the USA based leader in membrane sensing technology, that registers a resistance change depending on the amount of bend radius induced in the sensor. Currently used in applications as far reaching as finger location for gaming gloves to displacement sensing in fitness equipment, the single-piece Flex Sensor provides a cost competitive, compact and altogether elegant position sensing solution where a bending motion is applied to a device.

At less than 0.5 mm thick and with footprint dimensions of 74 mm x 6.35 mm, the standard Flex Sensor has an active length of 55 mm and a nominal 25 kΩ resistance when in a flat position. Normally fixed by an integral self adhesive backing to allow the sensor to bend freely through a typical angle of 90 degrees, the sensor's bend resistance increases in correlation to the bend angle to an upper value between 45 kΩ and 125 kΩ with excellent repeatability. Other versions of the Flex Sensor, with longer active length and application matched resistance values, are available on request.

With added external control the resisitive output can be arranged to provide a simple voltage divider with sensitivity adjustment or other output state features such as threshold switching.

The thin membrane construction is both resilient and durable, and can be used within a temperature range of -35ºC to +80ºC for an operational life rating of over 1 million movements.

Variohm EuroSensor supply the Flex Sensor along with a wide range of membrane type linear position sensors from Spectra Symbol that include contacting and non contacting devices for stroke sensing of lengths of up to 1000 mm. The range is characterised by competitive cost, high performance and ease of installation for applications from medical devices to automotive.

Multi-Turn, Non-Contacting Rotary Sensor has Absolute Output - Novotechnik's New RSM2800

2012-01-16T20:02:00.000-08:00

New multi-turn rotary sensor will provide viable, and enviable, non contacting alternative to wirewound devices.

Representing a breakthrough in non-contacting and multi-turn rotary position sensing, Novotechnik's new RSM2800 series provides an absolute position output for up to 16 turns (5760 electrical degrees) - and is a true non-volatile device that retains position in an unpowered state.

Available exclusively in the UK and Ireland from sensor specialists Variohm EuroSensor, the Novotechnik RSM2800 series has clear benefits over single-turn hall effect sensors and offers a competitively priced improvement on contacting wirewound potentiometers and incremental optical encoders that use internal gears for multi-turn angle sensing. Offering much improved reliability and a substantially longer working life than contact based devcices, the RSM also has a significantly lower entry cost than absolute optical encoders.

As well as improving the performance and life potential over panel mount 'wirewound rotary motion transducers', the RSM2800 is also aimed at applications throughout industry, agriculture, construction and automotive - from steering angle detection in cars and trucks or mobile machinery, to valve and flap positioning in industrial processing and as a low-cost absolute feedback system for servo controls. It will also be particularly useful in applications where its ability to provide multi-turn absolute position measurement after a power failure is desirable or where a power-up homing routine is not feasible.

The magneto-resistive technology used in the RSM2800 combines angle and turn-detection elements and is similar in principle to position detection method used in hard disk drives. The non-contact device has a nominal housing diameter of just 30 mm and is inherently durable with high resilience to shock and vibration and a temperature range from -40 to +85 ºC.

In addition to the selectable number of turns, from 2 to 16, the new RSM 2800 angle sensor is available with a flexible choice of configuration options including a choice of 5 or 24 VDC power supply, ratiometric, voltage or current outputs, cw or ccw output curve, dual redundant outputs and shielded cable or M12 connectors.

The packaging options include a wide choice of flatted or marked 6 mm diameter stainless steel output shafts, with sealed housings to IP54, IP65 or IP67. Push on couplings can also be supplied.

Burkert UK Offers Free-of-charge Steam Training Courses

2012-01-16T19:59:00.000-08:00

Burkert is underlining the importance of steam engineering and condensate management to its fluid control systems solutions, by offering a series of free one-day and three-day educational training courses. The courses, which comprise "An Introduction to Steam", "Steam and Condensate systems", "Pressure Reducing & Heat Transfer Systems" and "Clean Steam and Sterilisation" are scheduled for February of 2011.

Commencing on Monday 21st of February, the modular courses will be run by experienced personnel from Burkert's Steam Segment Management Team. They can be attended as individual modules - one-day or three-day - and are open to existing and prospective Bürkert customers; end users, OEM's and integrators; from the UK and Ireland. Attendance is on a first come, first served basis and each course has the capacity for 10 people. Lunches will be provided and each attendee will receive a copy of Burkert's authoritative "Steam Site Guide Book".

"Our timing in running these educational training courses could not be better," commented Greg Sutcliffe, Burkert's Global Steam Segment Manager. "We recognise that the global market for steam solutions is growing and with it comes an ever more demanding need for on-site application understanding. We also believe that the steam market is experiencing a shift in emphasis and is becoming dynamically demanding of its partners. We can no longer afford as an industry to be static. Only one example of this is the increasing hygiene standards expected in industries such as food and beverage, dairy, pharmaceuticals, bio-technology and medical. With our modular and "sliding-scale" technical courses, we hope to pass to our attendees our experience in all aspects of steam and condensate management systems, equipping them with the key knowledge to specify, understand and integrate steam applications into their worlds."

The basic Level 1 course is an introduction to steam. A comprehensive one-day module, that covers such topics as the fundamentals of water, the language of steam, using steam tables, pressure/temperature relationship, energy content of steam, vacuum, specific volume and specific density, elements of a boiler house, and how to recognise the key elements of basic steam and condensate loops. The aim of this day is to give a foundation of understanding and an overall appreciation of steam systems.

The Level 2 & 3, 3-day in-depth and detailed course, will give you a great understanding of steam and condensate systems. Taking place on Tuesday the 22nd, Wednesday the 23rd and Thursday the 24th of February, this course will cover topics such as estimating a steam load, dealing with air and non-condensable gases, steam and condensate pipework sizing, pipework layout best practices, pressure reducing stations, safety valves, steam traps selection and best practices, pit falls in condensate management, TDS heat recovery and process control valve systems, just to name a few. The course combines class room based theoretical discussions, coupled with hands-on experiences. The Level 3, final day brings together your new knowledge in our steam design workshops, where the attendees are asked to design for themselves a complete steam system from scratch!

The final course: Level 2 Clean Steam and Sterilisation, considers the hierarchy of steam purity, the uses of clean steam, the fundamentals of clean steam design and clean steam generators. In this module SIP and CIP systems are also discussed, answering questions such as: Cleaning v Sterilisation - what are SIP & CIP, the different types of CIP and why these practices are so widely used.

The ELEMENT On/Off and Control Valve Range

2012-01-16T19:53:00.000-08:00

Give your plant a competitive edge. The new ELEMENTs of success.

As a modular program they can be combined in a broad array of configurations to be perfectly suited to your exact process. With backlit displays and colored status lights, you are able to quickly determine diagnostic messages at a glance. The beautiful stainless steel design means they are specially suited for the requirements of both environmentally aggressive and hygienic areas. They are easy to clean, deliver excellent precision across a wide range of fluids and look stunning.

Here you find additional data about the our ELEMENT products:

On/Off system: Type 8801
Continuous system: Type 8802
On/Off valves: Type 2100 | Type 2101
Control valves: Type 2300 | Type 2301
Diaphragm valve: Type 2103
Control heads: Type 8690 | Type 8691 | Type 8695
Positioners and process controllers: Type 8692 | Type 8693 | Type 8694 | Type 8696

New Silicon Probe Assists in Disease Diagnostics and Drug Discovery

2012-01-16T19:36:00.000-08:00

IBM scientists have developed a flexible, non-contact microfluidic probe made from silicon that can aid researchers and pathologists to investigate critical tissue samples accurately for drug discovery and disease diagnostics.

Tissue staining is widely used in pathology to detect disease markers in a patient's sample. More specifically, a particular disease marker is bound with an antibody, which is then chemically colored or stained on the tissue. The intensity of the color classifies and determines the extent of a disease.

Tissue staining is a tedious process with many chemical steps analogous to developing photographs, whereby excessive chemical solution or long exposures can overdevelop the sample or photograph. In the context of pathology, this can cause false positives and negatives, which can lead to misdiagnosis. According to a report issued by Johns Hopkins Hospital, of 6,171 biopsy slides that were sent from late 2008 for a second review, pathologists disagreed with the diagnosis on 86 of them.

Obtaining a biopsy is an invasive procedure for the patient, so small samples are taken whenever possible. Pathologists are determined to gain as much information as possible from these small samples, which can be only a few millimeters in length. Working at this scale requires staining to be performed on many thin slices of the sample to identify and sub-type diseases such as cancer, for treatment. Pathologists are often challenged in performing a sufficient number of important tests on these limited samples, critical for personalized treatment strategies.

"A key aspect of taking clinical samples is to ensure a high diagnostic capability while minimizing patient discomfort—the probe developed by IBM scientists does exactly that. The probe allows one to stain a very small section of a tissue with virtually any biomarker that may be clinically relevant. This capability allows the clinician to not only do more with a smaller sample, but will also allow the use of multiple stains on the same sample, therefore increasing the accuracy of the diagnosis. Thus this work may be transformative for diagnosing a variety of ailments ranging from cancer to cardiac disease," said Prof. Dr. Ali Khademhosseini, Associate Professor at Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women's Hospital.

To address these important challenges, IBM scientists in Zurich are reporting today in the peer-reviewed journal Lab on a Chip an innovative proof-of-concept technology called the microfluidic probe, which can accurately stain tissue sections at the micrometer scale.

The eight millimeter-wide, diamond-shaped probe consists of a silicon microfluidic head with two microchannels at each tip. Similar to an inkjet printer cartridge, the head injects the liquid on the surface, but then unlike a printer, it continuously aspirates the liquid to prevent spreading and accumulation on the surface, which can lead to overexposure.

Specifically for tissue section analysis, the probe can deliver an antibody very locally in a selected area of a tissue section with pinpoint accuracy. Since analysis can be done on spots and lines instead of on the entire tissue section, the tissue is better preserved for additional tests, if required. In addition, only a few picoliters (one trillionth of a liter) of liquid containing antibodies are needed for each analysis spot.

"We have developed a proof-of-concept technology, which I hope puts pathology on a modern roadmap—benefiting from the latest developments in silicon-based microfluidics," said Govind Kaigala, a scientist at IBM Research - Zurich. He adds, "This new approach will enable pathologists to stain tissue samples with micrometer precision and easily perform multiple tissue stains on limited samples."

This research is based on IBM's decades of experience with silicon, which is now being applied to novel micro and nanotechnologies to solve today's greatest challenges ranging from energy production and consumption to healthcare.

The microfluidic probe fits to standard workflows in conventional pathology. In addition, it is compatible with current biochemical staining systems and is resistant to a broad range of chemicals. The small size of the probe also enables easy viewing of the sample from above and below by an inverted microscope commonly used in research and clinical laboratories.

Prof. Dr. Khademhosseini said, "The developed system may have great potential in applications where sample size and the need for testing various types of biological analysis are required. I am confident that one day such approach will enable us to take small tissue biopsies and be able to obtain significantly more information."

IBM scientists will continue to test and improve the probe and potentially begin using it in laboratory environments in the next several months. In addition, the team plans to explore specific clinical applications, possibly with partners in the field of pathology. The microfluidic probe promises to support the work of pathologists and become a tool of choice for pharmaceutical research and diagnostics involving biological specimens.

The scientific paper entitled "Micro-immunohistochemistry using a microfluidic probe" by Robert D. Lovchik, Govind V. Kaigala, Marios Georgiadis* and Emmanuel Delamarche, appears today in Lab on a Chip, DOI:10.1039/C2LC21016A.

Status GP Annnounce Lola LMP2 Programme

2012-01-16T19:28:00.000-08:00

Status Grand Prix will this year develop an LMP2 sports car programme following its decision to acquire a new 2012 specification Lola B12/80 Coupe. The Silverstone based team will take delivery of the car in the coming weeks and is currently finalising its 2012 test and race programme with the ultimate goal of competing in the full FIA World Endurance Championship in 2013.

This ambitious sports car project will be developed alongside Status GP’s existing GP3 Series activity, the team having been a championship contender and regular race winner in both the 2010 and 2011 seasons. The sports car project will not affect the team’s commitment to its GP3 single-seater programme, being operated from expanded premises by a dedicated crew of experienced sports car engineers and technicians.

Status GP has previously been the technical partner operating both GT1 and LMP2 cars on a sub-contract basis, competing in the Le Mans 24 Hours in 2006 and 2011 and also running cars in FIA GT and Intercontinental Le Mans Challenge events, but this is the first time it will field its own entry. Announcements concerning key technical partners and driver line up will be made when the 2012 programme is finalised.

“This is a significant step for the team and perfectly complements our important GP3 activity as we seek to develop parallel racing programmes up to World Championship level in the future,” said team founder Mark Gallagher. “We have enjoyed an excellent relationship with Lola over the last eight years and believe this is an exciting time to enter the world of sports prototype racing. There are more automotive manufacturers coming into the sport, the European and American Le Mans Series have paved the way for the creation of the FIA World Endurance Championship, while sponsors and drivers are recognising the benefits of competing with these superb cars at prestigious events around the world.”

'We are delighted to welcome Status GP into the Lola LMP family,” said Martin Birrane, Executive Chairman of the Lola Group. “Although a new entrant to sports cars, the relationship between Status and Lola goes back to the first year of A1GP in 2005. Like Lola, Status GP shares a determined and professional approach in the business of going racing and have proved to be winners in both A1GP and GP3. We very much look forward to a long and successful partnership with them on the global sports car stage."

Status GP was founded in 2005 and won the A1GP World Cup of Motorsport for Ireland in 2009, the culmination of four seasons in the powerful single seater category. The team graduated to GP3 for the series’ inaugural season in 2010, achieving 4 wins and 8 podiums to finish 2nd in both the Driver and Team standings. It was again a championship contender in 2011 with 6 podiums including victories in Turkey and Italy. Status GP’s major shareholder is Teddy Yip Jr, whose father ran the famous Theodore Racing team, and the management team includes former F1 and Le Mans driver/team coordinator David Kennedy.

40 Amp Hybrid Relay - A Mercury Free Alternative

2012-01-16T08:15:00.000-08:00

Carlo Gavazzi is proud to announce our new generation of economically friendly switching devices, the RMD Hybrid Relays. This product provides a mercury-free switching solution, ideal for controlling heating elements inside of food ovens, warmers, fryers, rotisseries and other food equipment. They are one of the few products of their type available on the market which is capable of switching up to 20 cycles per minute, with a 4 million electrical cycle life expectancy.

The RMD Series combines the benefits of solid state and electromechanical technology to provide a hybrid relay, which is an optimal solution. This means that there is virtually no contact arcing, which results in prolonged relay life and much less emissions inside of the panel. Another benefit of hybrid technology is a full amperage rating at elevated operational temperatures.

While most conventional switching devices are rated at 25°C or 40°C, the RMD Hybrid Relays are fully rated up to 60°C. The RMD3H switches heaters on three legs while the RMD2H is a lower cost alternative, as it switches two poles and the third pole is directly connected between L2 and T2. Some of the technical features include:

Two (for single and three phase circuits) and three pole arrangements
Rated for 4 million electrical cycles
Rated for up to 20 cycles per minute
Two output voltage ratings:

(674 bytes) 240VAC (VL-L)
(674 bytes) 277VAC (VL-N – 480VAC with Neutral)

Three common control voltages: 24VAC, 120VAC, 240VAC
Two amperage ratings:

(674 bytes) 30A up to 70°C
(674 bytes) 40A up to 60°C

Similar mounting to Mercury Displacement Contactors
Mercury-free, RoHS compliant, cRUus recognized

Complete Range of IEC Contactors & Overloads up to 900A/600Hp

2012-01-16T08:13:00.000-08:00

Carlo Gavazzi is proud to introduce its new complete range of IEC contactors, overloads and accessories. The CC Series Contactors are available in eight frame sizes, ranging from 25 to 900Amps AC1 (up to 600 Hp at 480VAC). Contactors are available with a wide selection of AC and DC coil voltages, choice of screw or lug terminals on larger contactors, dual coil terminals for easy looping and at least one set of auxiliary contacts. The contactor’s coil is easily changed in the event an emergency shipment with a non-standard voltage is required. There are also new mechanical interlock units for reversing contactor sets, which also includes auxiliary contacts for electrical interlocking.

Matching GT Series Bimetallic Thermal Overloads provide class 10 trip protection for motor loads. Standard features include a set of auxiliary contacts, test button and manual or automatic reset direct mounting or optional separate mounting bracket. More advanced motor protection is available with CGE Series of electronic (overload) motor protection relays.

The new CC Series Contactors were designed to complement Carlo Gavazzi’s existing line of GMS Manual Motor Starters. Direct link adapters and rigid back plates provide a seamless means of connecting the 9 through 100Amp CC Series Contactors to the GMS Series Manual Starters.

All CC Series Contactors and GT Series Overloads have a two year warranty, are UL and cUL listed, with CSA (elevator application) approval pending. Features include:

3 or 4-phase contactors and overloads for motor, heater and lighting control
IEC AC3 ratings ranging from 9 to 800Amps
UL resistive rating ranging from 25 to 900Amps
UL motor rating ranging from 5 to 600 Hp
At least one set of auxiliary contacts on all contactors and overloads
Screw terminals are standard, with lug terminals offered as an option on 50 to 800Amp sizes
Wide range of AC and DC coil voltages
Coils with dual terminals
Optional cover for contactor test button
Mechanical interlocks with auxiliary contacts
Bus bars for reversing most contactor combinations
Direct link and back plates for connecting 9 to 100Amp contactors to manual motor starters
UL, cUL listed products with CSA (elevator application) approval pending on some sizes