Automation Parts

VCM Series: V/f and Sensorless Vector Drive

2012-01-15T15:03:00.000-08:00

VCM Series is a compact, cost-effective drive with features typically found only in more complex and expensive AC drives. This full featured sensorless vector drive is recognized for being simple to set up, program and operate. Available in ratings from 0.5 to 75HP, the VCM Series is ideally for nearly any application. The convenient operator panel provides simple, yet informative interface during setup and operation.

The tactile feedback keypad is used for programming the drive and motor speed can be controlled using either the keypad or the handy, built-in potentiometer. The alphanumeric display indicates operation, status and fault read-out and is easily visibile in low ambient light conditions. In addition, LED indicators provide direction of rotation, operating status and drive output information. An optional two-line LCD display is available.

AC Supply Voltage 230 / 460 Vac
HP Ratings 0.25 to 75 HP

Latest DIL Switch from knitter-switch is Sealed for Applications That Require “potted” or Conformally-Coated PCBs

2012-01-15T14:54:00.000-08:00

One of Europe’s leading switch manufacturers, knitter-switch, announces a new DIL switch designed specifically for mounting on PCBs that are to be “potted” or conformally-coated using cold curing compounds.

Thanks to additional sealing along the base of the switch housing, the DBS 3000-SL series is ideal for many applications including industrial automation and access control systems.

Designed for through-hole mounting, the DBS 3000-SL series is available with raised or recessed actuators and in 1 to 10 and 12 pole versions. The switch has a lifetime of a minimum of 3000 cycles and an operating temperature range of -40 to +85ºC.

Standard switches are available from a number of distributors throughout Europe. Samples are usually available on next day delivery.

knitter-switch Announces Micro-Miniature Slide Switch With Auto-Return Slider

2012-01-15T14:52:00.000-08:00

knitter-switch, one of Europe’s leading switch manufacturers, announces a micro-miniature slide switch designed to operate as an on-off switch for personal multi-media products, musical instruments and other applications where a very small, space saving switch is required.

Switches in the new MMP/MMS 1263 series are 1 pole, two position units with a side or top actuated slider with a latching or rest position on the right or left of the switch. knitter-switch can supply the switch with a return force of either 1 or 3.5N.

MMP/MMS 1263 switches measure just 8.85mm long and 2mm wide and versions are available for through hole or surface mounting. Operating temperature range is - 40ºC to + 85ºC.

Users can expect an operational lifetime of more than 10,000 operations.

Standard switches are available from a number of distributors throughout Europe. Samples are usually available on next day delivery.

Micro-Miniature Pushbutton Switches From knitter-switch Are Just 1.48mm High

2012-01-15T14:49:00.000-08:00

One of Europe’s leading switch manufacturers, knitter-switch, introduces a very small, tactile, pushbutton switch that will find many applications in all types of handheld devices including PDA’s and those designed for medical and industrial use.

According to knitter-switch, these tiny switches are ideal for those functions in a handheld device for which a touch-screen or sensor button is not suitable. These include stand-by switch, volume adjustment, keypad lock and camera shutter functions.

Measuring just 3.8 x 2.8 x 1.48mm, the knitter-switch TSS 5400 series includes models that can be vertically or horizontally actuated. Operating actuation force is 160gf for vertically operated switches and 200gf for horizontal types. Contact rating is 50mA, 12VDC, electrical life is 100,000 cycles and the terminals are silver plate over nickel. The switch cover is silver plated stainless steel and the base is high-temperature thermoplastic.

Switches in the new TSS 5400 series are Halogen free and are available with the option of gold-plated contacts. All models have an operating temperature range of -40 to +85ºC.

Standard switches are available from a number of distributors throughout Europe. Samples are usually available on next day delivery.

IP67 Rated Tact Switches From knitter-switch Are Good For A Million Cycles

2012-01-15T14:26:00.000-08:00

One of Europe’s leading switch manufacturers, knitter-switch, announces a new tactile switch that will find many applications in industrial automation systems and as an input device for products where a waterproof PCB switch is required.

The TSE/TSSE 21/24 series tact switches are IP67 rated and feature a mechanical lifetime of at least 1million cycles thanks to the use of a stainless steel dome. The switches also provide the user with an excellent tactile feedback with customers able to select an operating force of either 160 or 260gf for more industrial applications. The new TSE/TSSE 21/24 series tact switches are offered with either round or square knobs to facilitate aesthetic panel designs.

Other key features of the halogen-free TSE/TSSE 21/24 series include an operating temperature range of -40ºC to +85ºC and a choice of through hole
or surface mount versions.

Standard switches are available from a number of distributors throughout Europe. Samples are usually available on next day delivery.

Compact Flow Sensors from BEKO Technologies

2012-01-15T12:30:00.000-08:00

Energy costs are high and set to go even higher. The beleaguered factory manager has to try to mitigate the impact of this together with all the other issues of the day that face him or her. Most companies addressed the problem that given 3 compressors 1 was just feeding the leaks in a campaign style activity...end of story...no sadly the leaks will come back or occur in other locations for a variety of reasons such as airline contamination, lack of maintenance just to mention a couple of the many.

BEKO TECHNOLOGIES decided the companies would increasingly want to measure key parameters in their compressed air or gas streams. The only way to manage is to measure is a mantra that is commonly used in businesses. Compressed air for many years was poor relations because almost everyone thought that compressed air was “free” or low cost so what was the point of investing in measuring something that didn’t impact on the efficiency and bottom line of a business. There have been solutions out there for many years to measure compressed air flow and indeed very reputable and impartial companies who would come along and measure flow using turbine flow meters and expensive technical personnel.

BEKO TECHNOLOGIES launched a range of measuring devices under the family name “METPOINT” and have been successful in selling surveys and the meters to measure, dewpoint, pressure, flow and even remaining oil vapour content. Today we are pleased to announce the availability of a compact flow sensor from BEKO. The advantages of such a device are that the price point means that more locations can be monitored. The device measures flow, total consumption and velocity. This means that exact costs can be attributed to individual pipe feeds into a process. It also helps with another aspect of energy saving in that pressure drop is a result of velocities being too high and now this can be monitored again in more locations.

The Best Just Got Better

2012-01-15T12:23:00.000-08:00

UK Service Manager Chris Norris said “We have been very successful with the product claiming a significant market share for the free standing sales. We took advantage of the very low warranty defect rate and offered a simple “no quibble” warranty extension to 3 years and of course we hoped that the designers would not get over zealous about value engineering and replacing what I regard as key components in the product’s reliability with lower cost items which might affect the product’s integrity. We have all seen this happen!”

Norris goes on to describe the changes made, “The product only needed some tweaking and we were pleased to see that the controllers were brought up to a high standard, the smaller units having a relatively simple display but doing all the necessary tasks including controlling the BEKOMAT level sensing drain, also allowing the drain test to be carried out from the control panel. Obviously I am always pleased to see service indication on products particularly very reliable products which can get abused because of this virtue.

On the 3 phase line we have scroll compressors fitted from RA1080. This helps keep noise and vibration down and allows a simpler connection, all helping to keep costs down. We have some new features such as Advanced Service Warning, Advanced Fan Control which allows the fan to run at 50% speed saving energy and helping to keep a constant dewpoint. All alarms and operating data are stored in the system to help prevent failures and if they occur to quickly diagnose the cause of the problem. The refrigerant has also been changed to R407C which has a significantly lower GWP (Global Warming Potential) than R404a.

Chris Norris summarises by saying “We in the UK are very satisfied with the new range. We believe that we will get even stronger in the market by offering what customers want, reliability, performance to the specification, connectivity, and ease of maintenance via good information from the control system. We are confident that our DRYPOINT RA range will give customers the lowest cost of ownership and publish our pressure drop and total power input for customer scrutiny. It’s a pity not all do this. In fact some of our competitors publish neither and some just the power. It is really important to understand that the upfront cost of the product is only half the story!

A Paradigm can be Shifted

2012-01-15T12:20:00.000-08:00

When a plant engineer has to purchase a compressed air dryer his first thought will be what dewpoint is required. This will then depend on the application; specifications of machinery using compressed air will guide the engineer as will codes of practice such as BRC/BCAS for the Food Industry. If a negative dewpoint is required then a desiccant dryer will be selected. The genre is likely to be well known to the engineer and will attract a significant capital and running cost particularly if a lower capital cost heatless dryer is selected. However the solution is classic and cannot be faulted. The alternative scenario is for the positive dewpoint at typically +2º C and again the engineer will know that a refrigeration type dryer will handle this application with relatively low capital and running cost but that he must take care not to have pipework going below the dewpoint temperature.

There is a third solution which is mostly ignored or perhaps is not fully understood. This is the membrane type dryer and BEKO TECHNOLOGIES offer their DRYPOINT M range of membrane dryers alongside their EVERDRY and DRYPOINT RA, desiccant and fridge dryers. Steve Riley, General Manager of BEKO TECHNOLOGIES in the UK and Ireland comments “I was amazed at how many DRYPOINT M’s were being sold when I joined the company. A little research told me
that 20,000 units had been sold since launch, in the UK alone. I could guess that many purchasers were “Original Equipment Manufacturers” because the main benefit I had in my mind was the very small footprint. I knew also that some compressor manufacturers had a packaged unit which included a membrane dryer but I couldn’t for the life of me guess the diversity of applications”.

He was correct in his thinking but later researches told him that there were very good reasons for engineers to select DRYPOINT M just on overall cost. This needs some explanation as what tends to put most engineers off is waste and it is a fact that membrane dryers lose a quantity of compressed air in purge loss. However this is not fixed and BEKO’s sales people have software which enables the choice of a low capital cost, higher purge loss unit or a higher capital cost and lower purge loss unit of energy cost is important (and when isn’t it). Riley comments again “I don’t think anyone will be too surprised to know that one of the other statistics I wanted to understand quickly was what maintenance revenue I would get from all these units. It was an unbelievable number- Nothing, £0 and it is not a short lived product that if a problem should occur it is more economical to throw it away. It is possible to destroy the membrane by having too much liquid ingress but BEKO’s experience and design team have produced a dryer with close coupled separator and drain to protect against this eventuality.” In fact there are no wearing or replaceable parts.

The Third Way - Update

2012-01-15T12:17:00.000-08:00

BEKO TECHNOLOGIES launched the BEKOKAT Catalytic Converter in 2008 realising that there would not be a flood of sales but none the less expecting to see a slow take up of the product notably by companies who had a need for 100% oil free or better than ISO 8573 Class 1 quality. The reason for this expectation was the growing realisation that however good an oil free compressor can be, the quality of air entering the compressor is variable. BEKO using their METPOINT OCV device have measured Class 3 remaining oil content after an oil free compressor with the unit working perfectly and not adding any hydrocarbon to the system.

Three years down the line and over 100 units sold. BEKO are optimistic that the success of the existing units in the field together with the increasing requirement to audit the quality of compressed air will accelerate the growth in sales. Chris Norris Service Manager at BEKO UK comments “As a service person I shouldn’t be happy because I have had no service revenue from the installed base this year and only a little last year but it is really pleasing to know that on at least one case, serious contamination was prevented in a food factory when an oil separator dump occurred. We expect this product to be very low service costs on average. There will be the replacement of the catalyst every 20,000 hours but annually virtually nothing apart from checking safety systems and valve operation “.

The product sales are helped by the fact that BEKOKAT is certified to produce amicrobic compressed air by the German GFPS (which translates as the Society for Production Hygiene and Sterility). Two units have already been sold in the UK just for this reason and the units are working well. The other applications are in the food, beverage, nuclear and pharmaceutical industries. Norris says “The BEKOKAT is not meant as any kind of competition to the oil free compressor it will be installed where it is critical that the air shall always be of the highest quality regardless of the condition of the inlet air”.

90 Degrees Shaft Coupling in One Piece

2012-01-15T12:07:00.000-08:00

Most flexible shaft couplings rely on a number of moving parts to enable the transmission of torque through a high angular offset. The Helical Flexure is an advanced solution that can accommodate up to 90° of angular misalignment whilst simultaneously compensating for axial and parallel shaft misalignments, but delivering all of these advantages from a single piece construction.

The performance capability of each shaft coupling is determined by six major characteristics: outside diameter, inside diameter, coil thickness, material, number of coils, and the number of starts. By altering these characteristics, torque capacity, angular and parallel misalignment capabilities, torsional and lateral bending rates of flexured u-joints can be modified to suit specific specifications and/or requirements.

The high angular shaft offset couplings are manufactured from stainless steel as standard so are ideal for medical, food processing or any clean room environment applications. The designer benefits from a number of advantages which include a choice of materials, the ability to have an infinite choice of end attachments and most importantly a maintenance free product.

Schmidt Thoroughbreds Join the Stable

2012-01-15T12:02:00.000-08:00

It gives us a great deal of pleasure to announce that we are expanding our wide choice of shaft coupling products with a brand new offering – the SCHMIDT-KUPPLUNG® range of compact coupling systems. This outstanding array of products provides an excellent choice, addressing different customer needs for a high performance standard item, a coupling adapted to their particular sector, or a solution tailored to a specific single application.

•    Controlflex® – the perfect coupling for shaft encoders, accommodating all types of misalignment with very low restoring forces and low stress on the encoder bearings at constant angular velocity.

•    Semiflex® – torsionally stiff, precise and backlash-free shaft couplings that require little axial space, compensate misalignment without restoring forces and transmit torque between shafts in instances where shaft alignment cannot be guaranteed.

•    Schmidt-Kupplung® – the classic product for extreme parallel offset, this torsionally stiff shaft coupling compensates variable parallel shaft offset without side loads in a very compact envelope.

•    Loewe® GK – with high axial stiffness and multiple shaft connections, this coupling is ideal for torque applications requiring resistance to axial motion, the mix of kinematic properties allowing much radial and angular misalignment.

•    Omniflex® – offering high universal shaft misalignment compensation with compact dimensions, this torsionally stiff and robust coupling is purpose designed for maximum torque requirements and the toughest cycle operations.

IR’s Automotive DirectFET®2 Power MOSFETs Deliver Exceptional Power Density and Performance

2012-01-15T11:59:00.000-08:00

International Rectifier, IR® (NYSE: IRF), a world leader in power management technology, today introduced the AUIRF7739L2 and AUIRF7665S2 automotive DirectFET®2 power MOSFETs that deliver exceptional power density, dual-sided cooling and low parasitic inductance and resistance in a robust, reliable and AEC-Q101 qualified package for automotive applications.

These first automotive DirectFET2 devices from IR are entirely lead-free and offer overall system level size and cost reductions along with superior performance and efficiency when compared to traditional standard plastic packaged components.

“The AUIRF7739L2 and the AUIRF7665S2 combine the outstanding reliability and performance of the proven DirectFET packaging technology with IR’s latest trench silicon process. The new DirectFET2 devices may be optimized by application for next-generation vehicle platforms for ultra-low on-state resistance (RDS(on)), gate charge (Qg) or logic level operation to deliver dramatically improved performance and efficiency, and reduced system size and part count,” said Benjamin Jackson, product manager, Automotive Products Business Unit.

The AUIRF7739L2 in the new large can package delivers the industry’s lowest RDS(on) of 0.7mOhm (typical) at 40V in a given PCB area. Moreover, the large can features a 60 percent smaller footprint and 85 percent lower profile than a D2PAK. The device offers exceptional power density and efficiency making it well suited to heavy load motor control applications including Electric Power Steering (EPS), battery switches and Integrated Starter Alternators (ISA) in Micro Hybrid Vehicles, and chassis, drive train and power train systems.

The AUIRF7665S2 small can device is optimized for very low gate charge and exhibits extremely low parasitics for fast and efficient switching performance. The DirectFET2 MOSFET is ideal for automotive switching applications including the output stage of Class D Audio amplifiers as well as DC-DC converters and fuel injection systems.

Both devices are qualified according to AEC-Q101 standards, feature an environmentally friendly, lead-free and RoHS compliant bill of materials, and are part of IR’s automotive quality initiative targeting zero defects.

Very stable Metal Film Resistors from DMTL feature extremely low TCR

2012-01-15T11:57:00.000-08:00

The CSR Series resistors can be specified as direct equivalents to products from other leading suppliers but are available on much shorter lead times – typically four to six weeks – and in minimum order quantities as low as a single reel.

Key features of the CSR Series include excellent overall stability, tight tolerances down to ± 0.1% and extremely low TCR (temperature coefficient of resistance) down to ± 10%ppm/ºC. The resistors are rated up to 1W.

CSR series resistors can be supplied to meet practically every resistance range requirement from 1Ω to 10MΩ. Operating temperature range is -55ºC to +155ºC.

Launch of New Low Power Consuming Embedded Automation Computers with Intel® Atom™ Processor and Up to Four PCI Interfaces

2012-01-15T11:49:00.000-08:00

Advantech'sIndustrial Automation Group (IAG) have launched two new Embedded Automation Computers, UNO-3072A and UNO-3074A with Intel® Atom™ D510 processor. Both models feature 2GB DDR2 RAM with an integrated RAID 0/1 controller for two 2.5” SATA HDD'sand an external SATA port for additional storage. Rated to work in temperatures ranging from -10 ~ 60°C (14 to 140°F) and with shock/vibration absorbers for data storage security, they are ideal for many machine automation and warehouse tasks.

In addition, the UNO-3072A and UNO-3074A are designed with 2 x Gigabit Ethernet ports to fulfill EtherCAT and Real-Time OS requirements; 4 x external USB 2.0 ports and 1 x internal USB port, VGA display, I/O programmable LED indicators, isolated DI/DO, and 2 /4 x PCI slots respectively for versatile peripherals. They also include 2 x RS-232/422/485 serial ports with support for any baud rate, which enables their use in applications which require specific baud rates. Their IEEE 1394b connector and Gigabit LAN with a motion card allow the UNO-3072A and UNO-3074A to act as machine vision computing platforms as well.

An additional three I/O expansion kits are available separately: 2 x RS-232 with 1 x PS/2; 1 x LPT, and 2 x USB ports. The UNO-3072A and UNO-3074A also support a variety of operating systems such as: Microsoft® Windows® XP Embedded, WinCE 6.0, Windows® 7, Windows® Vista/XP and Embedded Linux. All of this can be remotely managed using the Advantech DiagAnywhere Agent.

Advantech SOM-5790 High Performance CPU Module with Intel® Core™ i7/i5/i3 Processor

2012-01-15T11:42:00.000-08:00

Advantech, a leading global embedded computing and intelligent applications provider, proudly announces the emergence of SOM-5790, with 2nd generation Intel® Core™ i7/i5/i3 processor on COM.0 R2.0 type 2 pin-out. It is equipped with most advanced high-end constitution. Type 2 pin-out and legacy I/O support make customer enjoy easy migration without too much effort. The high performance SOM-5790 COM-Express Basic module is suitable for high-end industrial applications, such as telecom, medical, gaming, military and video surveillance.

State-of-the-art Processing Capability
SOM-5790 adopts 2nd generation Intel® Core™ i7/i5/i3 solution, the highest performance platform among Intel low power product line on COM module. This platform is outstanding for first quad core SKU and great performance improvement from previous platform. Therefore, SOM-5790 is especially suitable for high-end application demanding for better CPU performance and intense graphic, such as telecom, medical, gaming, video surveillance and military field.

Perfect Migration Choices
With new type 6 pin-out defined in COM.0 R2.0, more upcoming new platforms will be designed in this new pin-out type. However, Advantech considered that there are still many upgrading demand from customers adopting type 2 design, so Advantech provides both type 6 (SOM-5890) and type2 (SOM-5790) modules for 2nd generation Intel® Core™ i7/i5/i3 platform. SOM-5790 promises the continuation of legacy I/O support such as PCI and IDE, ensuring that customers could transfer and upgrade more smoothly.

Embedded Intelligent Management: iManager
Advantech held revolutionary perspective from pure hardware vendor to a partner helping customer solve any problem they met during product development. Advantech iManager is a new embedded firmware to greatly enhance system reliability and provide users an easy and stable (OS-Independent) way to manage onboard devices. It supports a valuable suite of programmable APIs such as multi-level watchdog, hardware monitor, smart fan, brightness control and more; all with user-friendly interfaces. This also releases some efforts during combination of Advantech module on customer’s carrier board.

SOM-5790 is available for ordering now, please contact Advantech’s local sales office or visit the Advantech website for more details.

Advantech Reveals New-generation RISC Computer-on-Module with ARM-based Cortex™-A8 Series Processor

2012-01-15T11:41:00.000-08:00

Advantech (TWSE: 2395.TW), a global embedded computing leader providing embedded platform solutions, today revealed its development of a new, RISC-based, Computer-on-Module (COM) integrating ARM Cortex-A8 1GHz Freescale i.MX53 series high performance, and ultra low power SoC and intensive I/O solution chips. The ROM-1210 uses onboard 512MB DDR3, 2GB Flash supporting OpenGL ES 2.0, OpenVG™ 1.1 hardware 2D/3D accelerators; ROM-1210 also supports a full HD 1080p video decoding and HD 720p video encoding hardware engine. Advantech ROM-1210 is designed for low power consumption around 0.8 Watt (with standard, full-run at 1.8 Watts). These heatsink-free designs and full HD functions are ideal for various low-power applications in HMI/Signage, industrial automation, cloud computing and portable applications. Now ROM-1210 is an Android2.3-, and Embedded Linux2.6-, Windows® Embedded Compact 7 solution-ready platform.

RTX COM Form Factor for Next-Generation Compact Embedded Computer Applications

ROM-1210 is designed to support RTX (RISC Technology eXtended) COM architecture, which has been defined by Advantech product experience in recent years. RTX integrates CPU, RAM, Flash, RTC, and Watchdog timer computing kernel within its 68mm x 68mm. SATA, PCI Express, Ethernet, USB, UART, LCD, HDMI, Audio, SD, I2C, etc. are included too–these rich interfaces all are integrated into the RTX form factor. Users need only design the power circuit, and necessary I/O connectors on their carrier boards to complete their own RISC platforms, saving product development schedule, human resources, and costs.

Five Advantech Embedded Boards Honored with Taiwan Excellence 2012 Awards

2012-01-15T11:38:00.001-08:00

Advantech, the embedded platform and integration services provider, is proud to announce that its SOM-7562 COM-Express Mini CPU Module, MIO-5270 MI/O-Compact Extension SBC, MIO-2260 MI/O-Ultra Extension SBC, PCM-3363 Rugged PCI-104 CPU Board and AIMB-213 Mini-ITX Motherboard, have each been recognized witha "2012 Taiwan Excellence" award. The Taiwan Excellence Awards were setup in 1992 to encourage the best innovation, value, quality and design in new products. Featuring unique industrial designs, plus the added value of integration with intelligent software APIs, and minimized thermal performance, these five embedded products were chosen for the outstanding usability they present to system integrators.

The Taiwan Excellence Award program has been going strong for over 20 years, and is highly regarded among industry insiders for highlighting the most innovative and exciting new product releases each year. The 2012 winners were announced in late December, 2011. According to the organization, there were 1145 products from 426 companies nominated to participate in the annual award program this year. Advantech’s outstanding performance is the net result of years of experience, working closely with partners developing pioneering products and solutions.

Two Component UltraFast Curing Epoxy Adhesive Featuring High Temperature Resistance and High Bond Strength Now Certified to Meet NASA Low Outgassing Specifications

2012-01-15T11:35:00.000-08:00

Master Bond Polymer System EP65HT-1 represents a breakthrough in epoxy adhesive technology in that it features the unusual combination of ultra-fast cures and high temperature resistance. While typical fast setting epoxies normally possess glass transition temperatures below 85°C, EP65HT-1 has an amazing Tg of over 125°C. In addition, unlike the typical fast cure epoxies, EP65HT-1 retains fast setup times even when mixed in relatively small masses. EP65HT-1 normally will setup in 3-5 minutes in 10 to 20 gram masses. Full cure normally occurs within a few hours with exceptionally high tensile shear strengths approaching 3,000 psi. Service temperature range is 60°F to +400°F. EP65HT-1 offers superior electrical insulating properties and a strong chemical resistance profile. EP65HT-1 has now been qualified to meet NASA low outgassing specifications.

EP65HT-1 bonds well to a wide variety of substrates including metals, glass, ceramics, woods, vulcanized rubbers and many plastics. Dispensing of the EP65HT-1 has been tremendously facilitated by the development of a dispensing gun capable of mixing fast setting materials with a 10 to 1 mix ratio. As a consequence, EP65HT-1 is becoming widely used for both manufacturing and prototyping in the electrical, electronic, appliance, computer, optical, automotive and OEM industries.

6000A & 6000B : Surface Mount Power Inductors Offer Lowest DC Resistance and High Current and Inductance Values

2011-11-18T11:39:00.001-08:00

Murata Power Solutions today announced the 6000A and 6000B series of surface mount power inductors. Designed for energy storage, input or output filtering and DC/DC converter applications, these compact inductors offer what is believed to be the lowest DC resistance values currently available. Both series can accommodate high current throughput and offer a wide range of inductance values.

The 6000A series comprises 11 models, with inductance values ranging from 5.8 to 57.8 uH, maximum current values (Idc) from 4.9 to 14.5 A, and a DC resistance from 5 to 36 mOhm.

Offering inductance values from 47 to 680 uH the 6000B series has 8 models that accommodates maximum current from 3.0 to 10.5 A, and have a DC resistance of 13 to 135 mOhm.

The inductors are supplied in tape and reel packaging for high volume, automated surface mount assembly and comply with the J-STD-020D reflow process.

50 Watt Isolated DOSA Compatible Sixteenth Brick DC/DC Converters Offer 4:1 Input Range

2011-11-18T11:38:00.001-08:00

Murata Power Solutions today announced the UWS series of 50 Watt medium power isolated DC/DC converters that are available in either through-hole or surface mount configurations. Meeting the DOSA standard for sixteenth brick dimensions of 1.31 x 0.91 x 0.36 inches, these compact units accommodate the wide input range of + 18 to + 75 VDC around a nominal 48 VDC. Input to output isolation is rated at 2,250 VDC so that the output is protected from spikes, transients and noise on the input.

Within the series there are three models offering outputs of 3.3, 5 or 12 VDC. Up to 54 W output is available without the need for any forced air cooling. The 12 VDC unit suits regulated intermediate bus applications. The outputs are regulated to within +/- 0.125% across all load conditions. Also, the outputs may be trimmed +/- 10%, 3.3 VDC model, or +10% to -20% for the 5 and 12 VDC models allowing the user to compensate for voltage losses.

Suiting a broad range of data and telecommunications applications, the UWS series has many self-protection controls such as overcurrent, overvoltage, input undervoltage and overtemperature shutdown. For systems requiring controlled startup and shutdown, an external remote on/off control may be driven by a switch, transistor or logic signal. This control can be selected as either positive or negative polarity.

Accommodating a wide range of operating temperature from – 40 degrees C to + 85 degrees C the series has guaranteed operation over the normal industrial range.

The UWS series complies with the internationally recognized safety standards UL/EN 60950-1 and CSA-C22.2 No. 60950-1 2nd editions for IT and commercial equipment.

MEE3 Series of DC/DC Converters Achieves 50% Power Output Increase within The Same Package

2011-11-18T11:37:00.001-08:00

Murata Power Solutions today announced the MEE3 series of single output 3 Watt ultra compact DC/DC converters suitable for a wide range of industrial and telecommunications applications. These single-in-line 4 pin packages (SIP4) provide 50% more power than previous 2 W devices using the same industry standard package. In addition, compared to other 3 W converters that traditionally use a dual-in-line 24 pin package (DIP24), the MEE3 series is much smaller resulting in a 200% increase in power density from 0.9 to 2.68 Watts per cubic cm.

Within the series two modules are available offering either 5 VDC or 12 VDC inputs. The popular nominal outputs of 5, 9, 12 or 15 VDC are available across the full MEE3 range. Typical converter efficiency is from 83% to 89% and is model dependent. No additional forced air cooling or heatsinks are required. The series offers exceptional load regulation, typically in the range of 2.7 to 6.3%.

These fully encapsulated units offer 1,000 V input to output isolation and can deliver full power across the industrial operating temperature range of -40 to + 85 degrees C.

The MEE3 series complies with the internationally recognized UL/EN 60950 safety standard for IT equipment.

The converters provide a pin compatible power upgrade path from Murata Power Solutions’ 1 W NKE/NME and 2 W NML series

Automated Boiler Blowdown Control System Reduces Water & Energy Consumption To Cut Plant Costs

2011-11-18T11:34:00.001-08:00

The highly reliable automated Model 61 Boiler Blowdown Control System from Electro-Chemical Devices (ECD) offers a complete, ready-to-use system providing continuous control of the surface blowdown rate for commercial and industrial boilers, optimizing blowdown cycles and reducing scaling and corrosion to reduce plant operating costs and extend boiler life.

With its precision accuracy, the automated Model 61 Boiler Blowdown Control System reduces boiler maintenance make-up water consumption and the energy needed to heat it. In comparison to performing blowdown cycles manually, the system offers operational cost advantages by continuously adjusting the blowdown rate to optimize the boiler water's electrolytic conductivity.

As boilers operate, dissolved solids accumulate in the water. When total dissolved solids (TDS) become overly concentrated, they can cause damage to piping, steam traps and other process equipment and form sludge in the boiler. The sludge impairs boiler efficiency and heat transfer capability. To avoid damage from TDS, boiler water must be periodically discharged, or blown down, and replenished with fresh feed water.

The Model 61 System calculates TDS levels by measuring conductivity in the boiler water. The conductivity measurement is made using ECD's precision CS10 Conductivity Sensor, featuring a standard range of 0-10,000 µS or optional ranges of 0-1000 µS or 0-100 µS. Outputs can be configured using the standard T23 transmitter, the optional C22 controller or optional T28 transmitter for Intrinsically Safe (IS) or Explosion Proof applications.

The complete Model 61 System includes ECD's CS10 Conductivity Sensor in a rack mounted panel. The system panel features a modular design for easy installation. It includes a sediment trap for easy removal of sludge buildup, sample cooler, temperature gauge, sample control valve and safety relief valve. All wetted materials are constructed of rugged 316 stainless steel. The process connection features a compression fitting of 0.75 inch NPT to accommodate the CS10 Sensor. The system is designed to operate from temperatures of 0-100°C and at a pressure range of 0-75 psig.

The Model 61 System's C22 Controller is a 110/220 Vac line powered, dual input device with one or more 4-20 mA outputs in addition to conductivity (pH, temperature, PID) and up to eight alarm relays as well as timers and logic functions. The C22's 4-20 mA output can be configured as a PID control output. The PID signal modulates a control valve to keep the surface blowdown rate uniformly close to the maximum allowable dissolved solids level, regardless of load conditions.

The Model 61 System comes standard with a NEMA 4X rated T23 transmitter, which is a two wire, 4-20 mA transmitter. For hazardous conditions, the FM- and CSA-approved T-28 Transmitter is an intrinsically safe, explosion-proof two wire 4-20 mA transmitter offering the standard conductivity output.

Versatile Chlorine Sensors Simplify Water Monitoring

2011-11-18T11:33:00.003-08:00

Electro-Chemical Devices has developed a flexible, user-friendly series of sensors for chlorine analysis, designed to easily and cost-effectively fit into chlorine monitoring systems in a wide variety of aqueous environments. The FCA-22 Free Chlorine Sensor, TCA-22 Total Chlorine Sensor and CDA-22 Chlorine Dioxide Sensor are high-accuracy amperometric sensors that are ideal for fresh water applications including monitoring of industrial cooling and rinse water, drinking water and wastewater.

FCA-22 Free Chlorine Sensor
The Model FCA-22 Free Chlorine Sensor is a low-maintenance, high-accuracy amperometric free chlorine sensor ideal for most aqueous environments. It features a long-lasting sensor that minimizes part replacement and technician labor expenses. The FCA-22 precisely measures free residual chlorine from 0.05 to 20.0 ppm Cl2, 5 to 9 pH and at temperatures from 32 to 122°F (0 to 50°C).

TCA-22 Total Chlorine Sensor
The TCA-22 Total Chlorine Sensor is designed for use in drinking water, industrial cooling and rinse water, wastewater or other fresh water samples containing chlorine in the range of 0-20 ppm, operating at a temperature range of 0-45°C. It is ideal for application in municipal water systems and a wide range of water-based processes in the chemical, electronics, electric power, food/beverage, oil/gas, pharmaceutical, pulp/paper and many other industries. The TCA-22's amperometric sensor features a three-electrode design that measures all chlorine species in the water, combined chlorine and free chlorine. The sensor is constructed with one gold cathode, one silver halide anode and a 304 stainless steel counter electrode which provides a stable base potential, minimizing drift for higher accuracy.

CDA-22 Chlorine Dioxide Sensor
The CDA-22 Chlorine Dioxide Sensor is a high-accuracy polarographic amperometric sensor with gold cathode and silver chloride anode and PTFE membrane. It designed to measure chlorine dioxide in concentrations ranging from 0.05-20 ppm CIO2 and operates at a wide temperature range of 0 to 50°C (32 to 122°F). It is ideal for applications in municipal water systems, industrial cooling and rinse water, wastewater or other fresh water samples. The low-maintenance CDA-22 can run for up to one year between electrolyte/membrane changes.

Panel Mount System Solution
The FCA-22, TDA-22 and CDA-22 Chlorine Sensors are also available as turn-key panel mount systems, featuring a simple "plumb-and-play" design combined with ECD's highly intelligent C22 Analyzer/Controller. These chlorine measurement systems are pre-wired and panel-mounted, featuring automatic pH compensation and flow control for superior chlorine monitoring.

Dissolved Oxygen Monitoring System Reduces Maintenance, Cuts Costs

2011-11-18T11:33:00.001-08:00

Combining exceptionally accurate dissolved oxygen measurement with sensor self-cleaning and intelligent communications, the Triton DO8 Self-Cleaning Dissolved Oxygen Monitoring System from Electro-Chemical Devices (ECD) features the Triton DO8 Sensor, the AC10 Air Blast Spray Cleaner and the C-22 Controller.

With a state-of-the-art fluorescence quenching (FQ) sensing element, the breakthrough Triton DO8 Dissolved Oxygen Sensor is ideal for a wide range of municipal and industrial water treatment applications. The trouble-free Triton DO8 Sensor is designed with precision FQ optical technology coupled with intelligent microprocessor-based electronics. The self-monitoring DO8 stores calibration data within the sensor, which minimizes maintenance over long service intervals while providing stable, dependable DO measurement.

The Triton DO8 Sensor is highly accurate, featuring a maximum error rate of less than 2 percent, repeatability of ±0.5 percent and resolution of 0.01 ppm or 0.01 percent saturation. It operates over a wide measurement range with three different outputs from 0 to 20 mg/l (0-20 ppm), 0-200 percent saturation or 0-500 hPa (0-6 psi).

The rugged Triton DO8 Sensor was developed for tough municipal and industrial water treatment environments and is designed to withstand ambient temperatures from -20 to 60°C (0-140°F) and records measurements at temperatures from -5 to 50°C (20-120°F). It withstands pressures up to a maximum of 10 bar (145 psi).

Unlike amperometric sensors, the low-maintenance Triton DO8 has no membranes to replace, no electrolytes to refill and no anode/cathode assemblies to service or replace. The only service required is the simple replacement of the DO8's sensor cap, which lasts two years or longer, and the occasional wiping of the sensor head with a damp rag.

The AC10 Air Blast Spray Cleaner is available as either a single or dual channel system. It helps maintain sensor measurement accuracy in turbid water conditions by preventing the buildup of biofilms and other soft coatings, decreasing sensor maintenance cycles and helping to cut plant operating costs.

The AC10 minimizes inaccurate readings caused by films and coatings that develop over time on sensors, reducing sensor cleaning time and the amount of chemicals used for unnecessary water treatments. The AC10 uses pressurized air to generate an area of high turbulence in the water surrounding the measurement end of the sensor.

The AC10 Air Blast Spray Cleaner uses a highly reliable, high current contactor that assures years of trouble free service. It is available with either a 115 VAC 3.0 Amp or 220 VAC 1.3 Amp Air Compressor. It is housed in a rugged, corrosion resistant, fiberglass reinforced polyester enclosure. Installation options for the AC10 include wall mounting or an optional 2-inch handrail mounting system.

The Triton DO8 Sensor utilizes digital communications to send DO data to ECD's C-22 Controller, which provides a 4-20mA output signal to a water treatment plant's control room. The RS-485 digital signal is nearly immune to common EMI/RFI noise that is typically a problem in many plant environments.

Easy to Use, Economical CA-6 Colorimetric Silica Analyzer for Boilers

2011-11-18T11:32:00.001-08:00

Maintaining boiler water quality is easier than ever with the user-friendly CA-6 Online Analyzer from Electro-Chemical Devices, which uses colorimetric technology to accurately and reliably perform silica measurements.

When boiler water is contaminated with silica, scaling can occur. Silica picked up by boiler steam can be deposited on generator turbines and lead to blade corrosion and diminished boiler efficiency. Effective monitoring of silica levels in boiler water helps to determine how well a boiler's demineralizer system is working, protecting equipment and ensuring that power generation systems are functioning as safely and economically as possible.

The CA-6 Analyzer is available in models measuring silica at 0-1.0 mg/L, 0-10.0 mg/L or 0-60 mg/L. It can also utilize photometric differential absorbance to analyze over 20 other common parameters in addition to silica including: aluminum, phosphate, nitrogen, iron and sulfate. It operates at a wide temperature range of 5-50°C and offers repeatability of ±2% on the absorbance value if the turbidity <80 NTU and drift of ±2% per month on the absorbance measurement.

Lightweight and easy to install, the versatile CA-6 precision online sequential sampling analyzer weighs less than 40 pounds. It can be wall mounted or simply set on a bench using the optional Bench Top Stand. After the sample, waste and reagent lines have been connected to the analyzer and provided with power, the CA-6 will begin its preprogrammed analysis sequence. The CA-6 is available with up to 4 channels (optional) each from a separate sample point. A simple, user-friendly menu structure and touchscreen interface makes it easy to access information or customize analyses.

The highly accurate CA-6 Analyzer saves labor and money when compared to online ISE measurements that require significant sample conditioning. With the CA-6, the result is a faster, more accurate measurement requiring fewer consumables with less waste to reduce overall operating costs.

The CA-6 Analyzer features a user-friendly touch-screen display that shows the measured parameter, analyzer status, percent reagent volumes, time and the menu bar, which provides access to the Run, Display, Program, Service and Help menus. It includes two alarm relay outputs and a 4-20 mA channel that connects with PLC's or distributed control systems.

The CA-6 is rugged and reliable. It is enclosed in an epoxy powder coated, cold rolled steel cabinet and features two separate compartments to isolate liquids and electronics. The liquids enclosure houses all the components necessary for sampling and reagent flow, mixing and reaction stages (sampling pump, reagent micro-pumps and colorimetric reaction cell). The electronics enclosure contains the main power supply, the controller printed circuit board assembly and the touchscreen interface.

The CA-6 Analyzer makes it easy to create customized analysis routines and access results via the touchscreen unit's simple menu structure and function commands. It can be programmed with numerous analysis configurations, depending on the accessories and the number of micro-pumps mounted in the liquids enclosure.

2011-01-18T09:27:00.000-08:00

USB-Capable Power Sensors

Rohde and Schwarz (RandS) has announced the NRP Z85 and NRP Z86, wideband sensors that measure power from 50 to 40GHz, suitable for microwave and radar development, maintenance and research. Instead of a base unit, the sensors are connected to a PC via a USB interface. This cost-efficient solution displays envelope power over a dynamic range of 47 to +20dBm. High-resolution pulse analysis is another exceptional feature.

Additionally, the RandS NRP Z85 and RandS NRP Z86 provide high-precision continuous-average measurements over the entire dynamic range from 60 to +20dBm. These performance characteristics make the sensors suitable for a variety of applications in the development and maintenance of microwave and radar systems as well as in the design and production of microwave components. The wideband power sensors can be operated from a PC via the RandS NRP Z4 USB adapter, or in combination with an RandS NRP/NRP2 power meter.

They can also be connected to any signal generator or virtually any signal, spectrum and network analyser from Rohde and Schwarz. Users can read the power measured from the DUT directly at the generator or analyser. A complete measurement solution comprising an RandS NRP Z85 or Z86 and an RandS NRP Z4 USB adapter is significantly more cost-effective than a conventional setup involving a power sensor and a power meter. With a video bandwidth of up to 30MHz and a sampling rate of 80MHz, the RandS NRP Z85 and Z86 are suited to analysing the time characteristics of modulated signals.

The rise time of less than 13ns enables easy measurement of the most frequently analysed pulse shapes. The power sensors can measure both peak power and average power over a defined time interval as well as perform statistical signal analysis (CCDF, PDF). With a measurement uncertainty of 0.18dB at 40GHz, these sensors offer good accuracy for continuous-average measurements. This combines with the sensors' other exceptional performance features to make them the market benchmark in peak power applications.

The power sensors' automatic pulse-analysis function provides peak power and average power measurements as well as detailed information on other important power and time characteristics of pulsed signals. These include, for example, pulse top level, pulse duration, pulse period, pulse duty cycle, and pulse rise and fall times. Using equivalent time sampling, the RandS NRP Z85 and Z86 can display pulsed signals with a very high time resolution.

This is done by sampling a series of consecutive waveforms of a pulsed signal. The measurements are time-shifted relative to one another, yielding a compacted sequence of samples, which over time are combined into a complete waveform. The new RandS NRP-Z85 and RandS NRP-Z86 wideband power sensors are now available from Rohde and Schwarz. The RandS NRP Z85 connects to the DUT via a 2.92 mm connector, the RandS NRP Z86 via a 2.4 mm connector.

2011-01-18T09:25:00.000-08:00

Embedded Computer for Factory Robots and Vehicles

Nexcom has expanded its range of fanless embedded systems with the launch of the NISE 2100A Series, designed for a host of industrial computing applications within extreme environmental conditions. Housed in a rugged aluminium chassis, NISE 2100A has been designed to operate in temperatures of between -20 to 70C. This feature enables NISE 2100A to function in the severe environmental conditions usually associated with factory automation, industrial automation or transportation.

It incorporates a 1.8GHz Intel Atom D525 Dual Core processor with ICH8M PCH chipset. This advanced Intel-based technology boasts 50 per cent better performance than the previous generation of Atom N270 CPU, with only a small increase in power consumption. Using onboard DDR3 memory, NISE 2100A is capable of fulfilling mainstream market requirements for increased performance with lower system configuration costs.

The NISE 2100A is suitable for a wide variety of diverse applications and therefore is equipped with a multitude of I/O interfaces including Dual LAN, four RS-232 COM ports, two RS232/ 422/ 485 COM ports with 2.5 KV isolation protection, four USB 2.0, one VGA and GPIO port. In addition, for applications which require PCI expansion, a variant known as NISE 2110A is also available.

With a wide range of DC inputs, from 9 to 36V, as well as a built-in SIM-card holder and mini-PCIe socket, NISE 2100A series is suitable not only for industrial and factory automation but also for wireless communication, in-vehicle computer applications, transportation control systems, such as Kiosk, self-service machine and ticket machine.

2011-01-18T09:24:00.000-08:00

Welded-Steel Housing for Industrial Hardware

Amplicon's Industrial Computing group has released a range of industrial-grade cabinets suited to housing Amplicon's industrial rackmount computers, data communication and test equipment. Designed for the rigours of industrial-grade applications, the range is constructed from a rugged, welded-steel housing with mesh doors, to provide optimal airflow for the valuable industrial hardware contained within.

Available in a wide range of sizes to suit the hardware required, with heights up to 45U and depths to 1,200mm, the cabinets have the potential to allow up to 45U of rackmount equipment to be consolidated into a compact 600 x 600mm footprint.

With simplicity in mind the new range can be supplied as a fully integrated turnkey solution, supplied ready for use, or alternatively as a versatile starter kit, supplied with everything needed to get up and running with a customer's own cabinet integrations, including power distribution, cable management and fixings. The cabinets come complete with U-marked uprights to assist with these integrations.

Amplicon's cabinet integration service allows complete rackmount solutions to be professionally built against your own technical drawings and specification, allowing every last detail of the cabinet configuration and fitted hardware to be captured and easily replicated. The service allows an entire cabinet integration to be fully managed by Amplicon, consolidating and simplifying the supply chain to a single order and substantially reducing purchasing costs of more complex integration projects.

2011-01-18T09:23:00.000-08:00

Smallest 4A Switching Regulator Simplifies Designs and Improves Reliability

Maxim Integrated Products (NASDAQ: MXIM) introduces the MAX15040, a low-voltage (2.4V to 3.6V), synchronous switching regulator in a 2mm x 2mm wafer-level package (WLP). This miniature step-down regulator integrates MOSFETs to simplify design, minimize EMI, improve reliability, and save board space. The MAX15040 operates from a fixed 1MHz switching frequency to further reduce total solution size, as it allows all-ceramic-capacitor designs. Offering efficiencies up to 94% at full load current (4A), this point-of-load regulator minimizes power loss in applications such as telecom, networking, and server equipment.

Other features include an enable input and power-good indicator for power sequencing, adjustable soft-start for controlled turn on, and the ability to safely start up into a prebiased output. The MAX15040 provides ±1% output-voltage accuracy over temperature and is fully specified over the -40°C to +85°C extended temperature range. Prices start at $2.17 (1000-up, FOB USA).

Maxim Integrated Products is a publicly traded company that designs, manufactures, and sells high-performance semiconductor products. The Company was founded over 25 years ago with the mission to deliver innovative analog and mixed-signal engineering solutions that add value to its customers' products. To date, it has developed over 6400 products serving the industrial, communications, consumer, and computing markets.

2011-01-18T09:20:00.000-08:00

Satellite IF Switch IC Expands to Allow 16 Signals

Maxim Integrated Products has introduced the Max12005, an 8 x 4 satellite IF switch IC that is flexible and adaptable to suit space-constrained, satellite IF distribution and multiswitch applications. Its 8 x 4 matrix is configured with an additional IF switch input so that it can expand to accept up to 16 satellite input signals.

The Max12005 supports a single, quad low-noise block (LNB) with vertical or horizontal polarisation signals that can be matrix-switched to four satellite receivers. A configuration of eight satellite IF inputs to eight satellite receivers is also possible by using two Max12005 ICs and adding eight input splitters. Signal quality is maintained even with high cable-signal losses.

Four integrated 9:1 multiplexers with variable-gain input and output amplifiers provide sufficient gain to compensate for the signal-path losses in the cable distribution and for switch insertion losses. To save space and cost, the Max12005 utilises two control methods: DiSEqC 2.0 decoding and tone/voltage decoding. These control methods enable four operational modes, which include LNB mode for use within the LNB mentioned above, cascade master mode, cascade slave mode, and single mode.

Furthermore, the four embedded DiSEqC decoders eliminate the need for external control components. The Max12005 is fully specified over the -40 to +85C extended temperature range and available in a small 7 x 7mm, lead-free, 48-pin TQFN package. Prices start at USD7.44 (GBP4.69).

2011-01-18T09:19:00.000-08:00

MEMS Oscillator has Low Power Consumption

MSC now offers SiTime's SiT8004 MEMS oscillator in the 125 to 150MHz frequency range, with low standby current, suitable for use in 'green' DDR, SAS, SATA, HDMI and video pixel clock applications. Key features include 6.5mA typical power consumption and 1.2uA ultra-low standby current. Frequency stability of the oscillator device varies between +/- 20 and +/- 50ppm, according to the supply voltage of 1.8, 2.5, 2.8 or 3.3V applied.

Four industry-standard packages from 2.5 x 2.0 to 7.0 x 5.0mm are available. Thanks to its 50 to 75 per cent lower power consumption compared to similar standard quartz oscillators, the SiT8004 is suitable for use in 'green' DDR, SSD, SAS, SATA, HDMI and video pixel clock applications as well as 1-Gigabit Ethernet, GPON and EPON network applications.

2011-01-18T09:15:00.000-08:00

MLCC Capacitors can be Used in Harsh Environments

Now available, Holy Stone's compact 'Verti-Zontal' (vertically oriented, horizontally stacked) MLCC capacitors are designed for applications with limited headroom, requiring a high-CV product. This SVZ Series orients individual capacitors vertically, limiting the overall height while the stack itself extends horizontally across the mounting area on the board.

The low ESR design allows for very high CV in the available footprint space. The compact yet high-CV design of these Verti-Zontal stacks is suitable for power applications including input and output filters. Its lead frame construction isolates the MLCC from both thermal and mechanical stresses, which can be problematic with large capacitors.

The Holy Stone design provides outstanding mechanical integrity as the design provides for individual leads to be centred on each cap insert. The low centre of gravity provides superior shock and vibration resistance, so they can be used in harsh environments. The SVZ series is also available using Holy Stone's high-temperature dielectric in temperature ratings up to 200C, in which case it is called the HVZ series.

2010-07-09T12:33:00.000-07:00

Solar And Battery Power Provides Wireless Sensing

The Flexpower system from Banner Engineering combines low-power sensors, long-lasting batteries, solar panels and wireless I/O devices to allow wireless operation of remote applications. The no-wire solution is designed for applications where wired power is either not available or impractical. Power is generated by lithium D cell batteries or a solar connector and rechargeable battery combination that require an average of two hours of sunlight per day to power a 4-20mA loop.

Flexpower is said to provide reliable, autonomous power sufficient to operate a range of sensors and the remote node of Banner's DX80 industrial wireless network. Applications for wireless sensing and control include: agriculture - irrigation control; monitor steam power plant valve temperatures; pump and flow control; perimeter guarding; tank level monitoring; rotating machinery for auto and other industries; landfill leachate pump counting; material handling; automated guided vehicle control; and vehicle detection.

By powering both sensing and communication functions the modules eliminate the need for any wiring to the installation. Banner Engineering offers a range of photoelectric, ultrasonic and temperature/humidity sensors specially adapted for low power consumption. To limit power use, the sensors are powered only when needed. The DX80 wireless network includes up to 56 remote nodes connecting to a central gateway. The gateway provides Modbus connectivity to PLC or other control units.

Frequency hopping spread spectrum (FHSS) technology and time division multiple access (TDMA) control architecture combine to ensure reliable data delivery within the unlicensed industrial, scientific and medical (ISM) band. Additional data radio units can be installed as repeaters to extend transmission range up to 3km per radio hop using 2.4GHz DX80 devices.

2010-07-09T12:32:00.001-07:00

Ilix Launches Cutting Tools Catalogue For 2010

Cutting tool brand Ilix Precision has launched its 2010 catalogue, which features products for drilling, threading and reaming that are now available to UK engineers. Ilix describes itself as a true solid round precision-cutting tool brand with a product range of more than 50,000 items in HSS, HSSE, HSSE-PM, solid carbide and cermet. All products are offered with the latest surface-coating technologies.

The 2010 catalogue has a 20 per cent increased programme range of the latest technology for drilling, threading and reaming. The catalogue is also available in 3D format on Ilix's website. The web catalogue is easy to work with and gives instant access to all the Ilix program and technical data.

2010-07-09T12:29:00.000-07:00

Ilix Cermet Reamers Are Ideal For Dry Machining

Engineers Cutting Tools, the UK agent for Ilix, has introduced Ilix solid-carbide and cermet reamers for the machining of hard metals. The machine reamers 6372C and 6323 allow the production of high-precision holes with good surface finish. Compared with HSS, the solid-carbide qualities enable the increase of cutting parameters and tool life. The quality of the reamers is said to guarantee high performance, even for hard metals with a resistance more than 1200N/mm2.

The Ilix carbide 6372C range of hundredth reamers is from 0.98mm through to 12.05mm in increments of 0.01mm. The reamers are manufactured to a tolerance of +0.000 - +0.004mm. The cermet reamers 6323 have new cutting geometry developed by Ilix. These reamers are said to be ideal for steel machining, having high chemical stability during the cutting process. They offer good wear resistance due to the high hardness and have low material adhesion.

The Ilix cermet reamer is said to be ideal for dry machining. The results are long tool life, good surface quality and accurate hole size. The Ilix cermet reamer range 6323 starts at 3.0mm through to 20.0mm in full and half sizes.

2010-07-09T12:28:00.000-07:00

RFID Transponder Ideal For Medical Applications

Smartrac has expanded its S-Tag product portfolio with an RFID transponder that withstands gamma radiation of up to 45kilogray (kGy) for medical applications where aseptic conditions are compulsory. Sanitising medical equipment with gamma rays is said to offer several benefits. As the irradiation destroys the DNA of any micro-organisms, medical equipment is sanitised reliably. In addition, radiation sterilisation is the only process in which products can be sanitised - including their packaging - as the gamma rays permeate materials and casings such as metal containers easily and without any appreciable increase in temperature.

Compared with heat and chemical sterilisation, irradiation is a fast, easy, effective and environmentally friendly process that leaves no residues on the sanitised objects. The transponder has been developed based on the company's S-Tag product family. Smartrac said its S-Tags are characterised by robustness, high mechanical durability, extended chemical and temperature resistance and compliance with the ISO/IEV 15693 standard.

The new S-Tag has a size of 16mm in diameter and comes with a Fujitsu FRAM chip, which offers low power consumption, good scalability, high-speed writing, long rewriting endurance, long data retention and high-quality communication performance. Due to the ferroelectric characteristics of the chip, the data is in no way affected by the radiation sterilisation process. Optional customer-specific engraving of identification numbers on the tag surface makes the use of additional stickers and barcodes obsolete. Besides medical applications, the S-Tag is also suited for use in aerospace, plant breeding, food irradiation and laundry applications.

2010-07-09T12:25:00.000-07:00

Software Module Provides Clear Production Schedule

Gemba Solutions has released the latest expansion to its real-time production efficiency software suite with the launch of a job sequencing module. This module allows a production machine's workload to be sequenced and its performance against that workload to be monitored. Unlike traditional scheduling or planning software, this module calculates realistic job start and end times based on data relating to the demonstrated performance of the user's assets.

This gives a more accurate picture of the user's actual production schedule rather than one based on theoretical/nominal production rates. The user can pre-load the system with jobs and the software will calculate start times and dates based on actual shift availability, planned downtime and demonstrated OEE levels.

The end times that the system calculates will be compared with the due dates/times that the user has entered into the system. Any jobs that will not meet their due date will be highlighted immediately. This means users will get advanced warning of any potential to miss a deadline and will have the opportunity to re-order the jobs, contact the customer and so on, before the problem occurs.

2010-07-09T12:22:00.000-07:00

Turn-Mill Cell Increases Machining Productivity

Miyano has revealed that IMI Components has installed a 13-axis turn-milling cell with fully integrated gantry loader to reduce machining times on small components for the energy sector. IMI adopted single-cycle turn-milling to replace four separate CNC turning and milling operations on a range of small components destined for the energy and power generation industry. The 13-axis Miyano ABX-64TH3 turn-milling cell with fully integrated gantry loader is on final commissioning trials and has already reduced total machining times on four critical valves.

Such is the level of increased productivity that for one particular component, three parts can now be produced complete in the previous floor-to-floor time total for one part. As an example of the level of complexity involved, one of the parts has some 100 dimensions that have to be maintained. Here, the Miyano has the advantage of being able to apply the 17 driven tools to carry out the cycle in just one operation - well within the tool-carrying capacity of the ABX's 36 driven positions. 'The Miyano machinery can run for up to 19 hours in an unmanned single-cycle operation against our previous methods, which were operator-dependent with the added lead-time restrictions of part buffering between the different machines,' said Adrian Floyd, engineering manager at IMI.

The Miyano has also saved most of the manual deburring required by combining the process in cycle, setting times have also been reduced from half-a-day to around 30mins for a complete changeover as programs and 95 per cent of tools required for all the components are held permanently on the machine's three turrets. Materials processed at IMI Components vary from magnesium alloys through a range of stainless steels and other exotic alloys to aluminium. With market demand escalating for high-precision, high-integrity products this level of production is set to rise further. The selection of the Miyano ABX-64TH3 was made against three other supplies of multi-axis, turn-mill centres.

The inclusion of Stealth technology, enabling the machine to be thermally efficient and high on accuracy and repeatability due to its ability to be tailored or tuned to the working environment and operational demands, was an important factor in the decision. Also high on the agenda was the level of flexibility available from the two spindles and three, 12-position driven tool turrets to provide overlapped cutting operations and reduce cycle times. Indeed, this is qualified by one component that took 19min to produce using the original four operation method that was reduced to six minutes on the Miyano. 'During quotation stages the volume of parts was constantly shifting upwards and we were becoming concerned that with our existing methods the amount of handling involved through the four machining operations and manual deburring, that even with the greatest care and attention we were susceptible to marking or damaging the components,' Floyd said.

By incorporating a programmable gantry into the cell, IMI can now control part handling as well as dipping the component after machining to prevent any staining. The Miyano is fed from its Iemca gantry system that incorporates a buffer magazine able to store up to 190 billets giving up to 19 hours of unattended running. Both machine and gantry have independent control systems with the software interface created once the cell was installed at the plant. However, all machining programs and job set-up sheets were written by Miyano application engineers in Birmingham along with the supply of a full complement of mostly standard tooling.

Prior to shipment, the machine package was proven to achieve production targets and CPK target values at the Miyano showroom. General tolerances on the aluminium components are within 0.02mm with certain specific dimensions maintained within 0.01mm. As sealing faces and 'O'-ring grooves are required, surface finish below 0.8 micron Ra is high on the requirement list and these are generally maintained by the machine and tooling set-up within 0.5 micron Ra. Operations carried out on the four component types include turning and extensive milling and drilling. Boring cycles, the creation of numerous 'O' ring grooves and sealing faces, drilling of deep holes and reaming are required on all the parts.

Thread milling is also performed to produce M4, M6, M8 and M12 threads and there are several off-centre line hole features, ideal for the Y-axis combination movements of the two upper turrets to allow the holes to accurately break into each other from opposed ends of the part. Important in the application development of the components by Miyano engineers was the focus on maintaining a constant chipping pattern of material rather than creating stringy swarf to ensure unmanned security of operation. With the tool load monitoring set to 50 per cent, this also provides an insurance against tool failure.

'Due to the nature of the material and by including some diamond tools in the set-up, we can take advantage of the rigidity of the machine and are expecting two years or more of cutting life before they will need changing,' Floyd said. The inclusion of a Sheffield Discovery CMM in the cell provides a 3D measuring overview of the levels of positional tolerances. Here, the machine gantry loader has been programmed to place aside a regular selection of parts in order to verify if any drift in tolerance or out-of-position is detected. Later, the plan is to integrate automatic offset shift from the control system on the Miyano using direct feedback from the CMM. One important element in the Miyano is confirmed by Floyd in that the inclusion of Stealth technology will enable the machine to compensate to any thermal changes.

Using Stealth, the machine has been tailored within the control software to suit the working environment, accommodate the heat from the motors, swarf and coolant temperature, which will help maintain production consistency and predictability - vital when running in unmanned situations on critical workpieces. The ABX-64TH3 is powered by a 15kW, 4000rev/min motor in the main spindle and 7.5kW, 5000rev/min in the second spindle. Each of the two upper turrets have +/-40mm of travel as cross-feed in the Y-axis while the lower turret is able to position to either spindle and create an overlap situation.

The 36 powered tool positions have 2.2kW, 6000rev/min available for use on both front and back position of the component in its single-cycle capability. The maximum bar size capacity of the ABX machine is 64mm or in the case of IMI, 6in chucks are employed on each spindle with the gantry initially feeding an aluminium billet to spindle one. The part is then machined and the component automatically exchanged into spindle two for the cycle to continue after the gantry has removed the part for dipping in the cleaning tank prior to returning the finished part to the magazine.

2010-07-09T12:19:00.000-07:00

Burkert Discusses Benefits Of Integrated Valves

Decentralised automation systems have become a suitable alternative to control cabinet systems in many process sectors, according to Burkert Fluid Control Systems. This comes as more and more practical solutions are developed that integrate automation functions into the pneumatic actuators of process valves. Food and beverage producers and companies in the pharmaceutical and cosmetics sectors are now in a position to reconcile the commercial necessity of a high degree of automation in their production with the requirements of hygiene and safety.

Thanks to their modular structure, systems based on process valves can be adapted to suit many situations and applications, whereby such optimised solutions are always based on high-quality, tried-and-tested components with a long service life. In the production of food, beverages, medicines and cosmetics, the statutory requirements of Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) for food processing and Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) for Food and Drug Administration-compliant processes in the pharmaceutical industry set the most stringent standards as regards cleanliness, safety and product quality. In addition, all processes must be constantly monitored and documented.

At the same time, in an increasingly competitive global environment, companies need to make their production processes as efficient and cost effective as possible. Consequently, there is an ever-increasing demand for automation at the process level. In the field of process valves, conventional automation solutions - including control cabinets with valve terminals, input/output (I/O) systems and fieldbus connections - require extensive and costly tube connections and wiring. With this technology, the valves at field level are connected to the control unit in the control cabinet through a large number of extended pneumatic control lines and discrete feedback connections.

In many cases, long control air lines increase the air consumption and have a negative effect on the switching times of the valves. In addition, apart from the high costs for the planning and installation of such solutions, there are also concerns with regard to hygiene. According to HACCP, every additional control air and feedback line within the production plant is a potential source of contamination and risk and must, therefore, be monitored, serviced and cleaned regularly, which is a costly undertaking. The use of intelligent process valves eliminates these problems, as automation functions - pilot valves, electrical and optical position feedback and fieldbus interfaces - are integrated directly into the actuators of the process valves.

This approach, based on the principle of decentralised automation, minimises the number of cables and compressed-air lines. In addition, the concept is flexible and provides a number of further advantages. With integrated intelligent valve systems, the process control system is only in charge of centralised control and status monitoring. At field level, pneumatically operated process valves are used, which can be equipped with all the required automation components: pilot valves with manual actuation, electrical feedback and optical status indication units, fieldbus interfaces and even positioners and process controllers. Plants based on such decentralised automation systems are, therefore, working with complete intelligent valve systems.

By integrating an AS interface as a fieldbus interface, the entire range of advantages of the intelligent valve approach can be fully utilised. All that is required for power supply, feedback and communications is a two-wire connection, interfacing the PLC with up to 62 valves. Each process valve is connected directly to the main compressed-air supply line in the field, reducing the number and length of tube and cable connections, as well as the number of required control cabinets to a minimum. The valve systems are designed according to the EHEDG guidelines for hygienic design and easy cleaning; they feature the high IP protection required by the actual application and are made of detergent-proof materials.

As a result, they are not affected by prolonged use in environments with high levels of humidity or by frequent cleaning cycles with aggressive chemicals. In comparison with conventional automation solutions, the intelligent valve design delivers real progress in terms of improved hygiene. In addition, there are other advantages in respect of reduced electrical wiring and fewer control air lines. Even prior to commissioning, users benefit from the decentralised concept, as it simplifies project planning and enables more flexible solutions, thanks to the easier integration of the process and automation levels. This also applies to the subsequent installation, commissioning and maintenance.

A clearly visible status indicator integrated into the fitting allows the operator to monitor processes and the operating status of valves, not only at a central point at control level but also directly at the fitting itself. With conventional automation by means of control cabinet solutions, the drivers used in the plant must already be equipped with a device for electrical feedback. Valve systems cater for the integration of pilot valves with manual actuation, optical position indicators and other automation functions inside compact, hygienic and easy-to-clean stainless-steel housings. Depending on the application, users can choose between different equipment and configuration options.

The range of available options includes mechanical limit switches, inductive proximity switches and NAMUR initiators as well as mechanical position indicators and self-teaching limit position feedback modules with inductive linear displacement transducers. At the lower end, decentralised automation based on intelligent valve systems starts with a process valve with integrated electrical feedback, simple optical feedback and an integrated pilot valve. Such systems already eliminate valve terminals in control cabinets. Moving up one step in the modular valve programme, users can benefit from the advantages of decentralised automation.

In addition to the electrical feedback and the pilot valve, these solutions include large-size high-performance colour light-emitting diodes (LEDs) for improved optical feedback, facilitating process monitoring at field level, and an optional AS interface serving as a fieldbus interface, whereby all these features are integrated into the valve system. These systems also integrate an analogue displacement transducer, replacing two conventional initiators or micro switches. The limit position is adjusted automatically, rather than manually, through a teach function. Process valves integrating an intelligent valve design require only minimum space and can, therefore, be installed in the pipeline systems of any plant.

As they are made in resistant materials, they are simple to clean and they provide maximum availability thanks to excellent functional safety. This high level of functional safety is mainly a result of the integrated control air supply to the operator chambers, which ensures that the spring chamber of the pneumatic driver is also supplied exclusively with clean control air. Moisture, dust and contaminants in the ambient air cannot enter the drive units. This, in turn, effectively prevents the contamination of the piston seals and the corrosion of the drive springs caused by cleaning solutions entering the housing.

There is also no risk of moisture entering the feedback module or the control head along the spindle extension. While this prolongs the service life of the driver, this design also has a positive effect on the hygiene of the process. As product cannot enter the driver, both the spreading of germs and contamination of the driver by mould are prevented. There is also no risk of fungal spores produced in the spring chamber being ejected into the ambient air at each switching process, which is a common problem with conventional valves. The actuator housing is flushed with control air at each switching process, as some control air is fed through at the pilot valve.

This process takes less than 10ms and ensures that a slight overpressure is built up in the housing, further improving its IP protection and preventing the penetration of humid air, such as in the event of changes in temperature or when rinsing with cold water. An integrated pressure-relief valve ensures that the pressure in the housing is automatically reduced, if, after several switching processes, it reaches a value of approximately 0.5bar.

Through this combination of control air inlet and release, a constant overpressure is maintained inside the housing, while a certain volume of air is regularly replaced. This ensures that no condensate can build up inside the housing. Systems of the above design can be extended to complete control valve systems by combining them with digital electro-pneumatic positioners and process controllers. The control valves, therefore, meet the same stringent hygiene standards as the process valves. Provision for the ventilation of the spring chamber and the flushing of the control housing are, again, included as standard.

2010-07-09T12:17:00.000-07:00

Super-Thermometers Calibrate Thermistors And SPRTs

Electronic test and measurement specialist Fluke has introduced the 1594A/1595A super-thermometers from Hart Scientific for the calibration of SPRTs, PRTs and thermistors. The Fluke 1594A and 1595A super-thermometers are accurate enough for the primary lab, providing accuracy to 0.06ppm (0.000015C), and economical enough for the secondary lab. Fluke said metrologists can feel confident that every measurement made with the super-thermometer falls within expected limits, easy verifiable at any time.

The 1594A and 1595A feature patent-pending ratio self-calibration that enables users to test the accuracy or calibrate the resistance ratio linearity of the super-thermometer's measurement circuit without requiring any external devices or special training. Metrologists can verify accuracy and performance automatically in about 30mins at the touch of a button. Although unlikely, measurement circuit defects would be detected and reported automatically. Users can also calibrate the super-thermometer's internal reference resistors using the resistance calibration function and an external standard resistor.

The super-thermometer assists with the calibration through an easy-to-use setup utility. Once the calibration is complete, the super-thermometer reports the results to the display and provides the option to write the results to a USB memory device. Users can also choose whether or not to adjust the calibration parameters of the internal reference resistor by pressing the password-protected adjust resistor function key. Measurement noise is caused by electrical noise and other random errors that can negatively influence measurement accuracy. Patent-pending designs incorporated into the super-thermometer reduce measurement noise and interference to levels that Fluke claimed are unprecedented for a digital thermometry bridge.

In a typical temperature calibration application, uncertainty due to measurement noise is as low as 0.00002C. Super-thermometers offer speeds as fast as one second per measurement (full accuracy with a two-second sample rate). This means users can complete tests in less time, track temperature changes more accurately and evaluate thermal response in sensors. When measuring fixed-point temperatures that require the highest levels of accuracy and lowest levels of noise, users have complete control to change the measurement speed to meet their requirements.

2010-07-09T12:13:00.001-07:00

Robot Offers Compact Solution For Machine Builders

Fanuc Robotics has launched a robot that can be mounted in a variety of orientations without modification and with an unobtrusive exterior for machine load, assembly and inspection applications. The M-10iA/10S is a six-axes, 10kg-payload robot with a hollow arm to completely remove tooling cabling from the work area. The company said the robot provides a compact solution for machine builders and system integrators needing to reduce space requirements. The arm can be mounted in floor, ceiling and angle orientation - for instance, overhead or an inclined plane - to reduce space required for other operations or peripheral equipment.

The robot's hollow arm has integrated fluidics, signal and electrical cabling throughout, reducing the risk of cable snagging and breakages. By routing cables through to the wrist flange, joint six, full tool rotation is maximised without risk, speeding up programming and ensuring longer cable life. Fanuc Robotics said the high speed and inertia of the M-10iA/10S together with its 1,098mm reach make multi-task applications, such as machine load, assembly and inspection, straightforward. The ability of joint three to flip is particularly useful for inverted mount installations to maximise the work envelope.

The wrist is sealed to IP67, making it suitable for more aggressive environments such as waterjet cutting and casting applications. The M-10iA/10S runs with Fanuc Robotics' R-30iA series intelligent controller, an open-architecture system with integrated intelligent functions including vision and force sensing. Where vision is required the R-30iA controller helps reduce integration time and cost with its integrated iRVision system. No additional hardware, other than a camera, is required to integrate vision with the controller. Control of up to 40 multiple axes is available with the R-30iA controller and when used in multi-arm mode one controller can control four arms and four auxiliary axes groups.

Further reducing the additional control hardware common to any installation, the controller has its own Programmable Machine Controller (PMC). The PMC has an integrated monitor that allows the user to monitor the PMC ladder in a graphic display for all levels and sub-programs that reside in the controller.

2010-07-09T12:10:00.000-07:00

Tool Offers 3D Injection Moulding Flow Simulation

Cimatron CAD/CAM provider Foregone Solutions has announced a partnership with Coretech System that will offer 3D injection moulding flow simulation for medical device manufacturers and more. As a result of this partnership, mould designers can now simulate and analyse the injection moulding process from within CimatronE. This will enable users to ensure optimal placement of injection points, increasing the quality of the manufactured part. Coretech's Moldex3D Explorer analyses tool displays a full 3D visualisation of the moulding process, providing the inner temperature and pressure of the cavity.

CimatronE users will be able to evaluate the welding line, air traps, flow balance, cooling time, the number of gates needed, and the location of the gates. The Moldex3D Explorer add-on is activated with only a few clicks in CimatronE and requires no additional training or CAD conversion. A report generator enables users to provide relevant feedback to their customers. Foregone Solutions also provide the full product Moldex Edesigner and associated modules for the mould designer/manufacturer needing the extra functionality.

Medical applications, where time-to-market is critical, need to get the tool right, and users can see exactly what the plastic will do on the screen. The software can assist in reducing time-to-market through analysing the part before the metal is cut, reducing the distortion and warpage through better understanding of heating and cooling. With this software combination, moulding times can be optimised and material wastage through over-packing can be eliminated. Conformal cooling circuits can be designed and tested before committing to sintering.

2010-07-09T11:52:00.001-07:00

Rocker Switches For Consumer Applications And More

CandK Components has developed two series of rocker switches for household appliances, instrument panels, industrial controls and computers/peripherals. Designated the CG and CL series, the UL- and CSA-approved single-pole power rocker switches feature two-tone and multi-coloured illuminated actuators. The durable rockers are said to be easy to install and offer a casing that can retain markings. The CG series single-pole power rocker switches are available with a two-tone actuator (offered in five colour combinations) or with red, amber or green illuminated actuators.

Additionally, the actuators can be marked. VDE-approved, the bevelled, framed CG series rockers offer easy panel-mount installation. The switch has contact ratings of 16A at 125VAC or 10A at 250VAC and an electrical life of 10,000 make-and-break cycles at full load. The operating temperature for the CG series is -20C to +85C. The CL series single-pole power rocker switch features a positive detent with several models available with illuminated actuators in red, amber and green colour options. The contact ratings for the rocker switches are 16A at 125V, 1/3HP or 10A at 250VAC, 1/2HP. Operating temperature is -20C to +80C. Both series are designed for easy snap-in installation and both have quick-connect terminations.

2010-07-09T11:48:00.000-07:00

QAM Modem IC For Narrowband Applications

CML Microcircuits has launched the CMX7163 wireless data QAM modem IC designed to deliver high spectral efficiency QAM for narrowband applications including Scada and M2M systems. The CMX7163 provides 4/16/64-QAM baseboard modem functions in a single chip, replacing the current need for user-programmed DSP plus codec ICs. This development includes high dynamic range analogue signal capturing, digital baseband filters, auxiliary codecs, clock generator, and I/O functions, all designed to lower total bill-of-materials cost and chip count.

The high level of total integration reduces technical risk and time to market, according to CML Microcircuits. The device is a complete baseband modem system delivering high performance and high spectral efficiency QAM for narrowband applications. These include M2M systems over dedicated channels, digital software defined radio (SDR), high-speed wireless data and Scada systems.

The half-duplex device, which is suitable for 6.25kHz, 12.5kHz and 25kHz bandwidths, operates up to 96kbps in 25kHz bandwidths, featuring channel estimation and equalisation. The device is suitable for interfacing to superheterodyne receivers (for example, CMX992) or direct conversion designs (for example, CMX994) providing performance compatible with regulatory standards such as EN 301 166, EN 300 113 and EN 302 561. The transmitter interface is compatible with the CML Cartesian loop technology (CMX998). The device utilises CML's Firmasic component technology.

On-chip sub-systems are configured by a Function Image data file that is uploaded during device initialisation and defines the device's function and features set. The device's functions and features can be enhanced by subsequent Function Image releases, facilitating in-the-field upgrades. The CMX7163 logical interface provides addressable configuration parameters that ease host driver development. Selectable modulation, symbol rate and FEC suit a range of application requirements without hardware reconfiguration.

Features include: direct I/Q analogue inputs and outputs; automatic DC offset compensation; pulse shape filtering; a Ramdac capability for PA ramping control; and a C-Bus (SPI compatible) serial interface to host the microcontroller. Four auxiliary ADCs and DACs, two programmable system clock outputs, four GPIO and a separate C-Bus (SPI) interface to allow automated control of the radio section. Other features optimised for high-performance modems include carrier sensing, transmit burst timing and automated control of receiver AGC (when using CMX992 or CMX994).

2010-07-09T11:42:00.000-07:00

Immunity Generator For Industrial Applications

Advanced Test Equipment Rentals has announced the availability of the Teseq NSG 3060 6kV conducted immunity generator for residential, commercial and industrial applications. The Teseq NSG 3060 6kV conducted immunity generator meets IEC standards 61000-4-4, 5, 11 and 12, as well as various IEC 61000-4-4. It is said to establish a common and reproducible reference for evaluating the immunity of electrical and electronic equipment when subjected to electrical fast transient/bursts on supply, signal, control and earth ports.

The test method documented in this part of IEC 61000 describes a consistent method to assess the immunity of an equipment or system against a defined phenomenon. IEC 61000-4-5 relates to the immunity requirements, test methods, and range of recommended test levels for equipment to unidirectional surges caused by over-voltages from switching and lightning transients. Several test levels are defined which relate to different environment and installation conditions.

These requirements are developed for and are applicable to electrical and electronic equipment. The object of this standard is to establish a common reference for evaluating the immunity of electrical and electronic equipment when subjected to surges. IEC 61000-4-11 defines the immunity test methods and range of preferred test levels for electrical and electronic equipment connected to low-voltage power supply networks for voltage dips, short interruptions, and voltage variations. This standard applies to electrical and electronic equipment having a rated input current not exceeding 16A per phase, for connection to 50Hz or 60Hz AC networks.

It does not apply to electrical and electronics equipment for connection to 400Hz AC networks. IEC 61000-4-12 relates to the immunity requirements and test methods for electrical and electronic equipment, under operational conditions, to non-repetitive damped oscillatory transients (ring waves) occurring in low-voltage power, control and signal lines supplied by public and non-public networks. The object of this basic standard is to establish the immunity requirements and a common reference for evaluating in a laboratory the performance of electrical and electronic equipment intended for residential, commercial and industrial applications, as well as of equipment intended for power stations and substations, as applicable.

2010-06-15T17:04:00.000-07:00

Press Ensures Safe Operation For Assembly Company

Tox Pressotechnik has provided a press system designed to meet a series of ergonomic and safety needs, for an assembly company with handicapped employees. Vebo Werkstatt Olten eventually installed a Tox Press type CEB, consisting of a press frame of C-shape, a pneumo-hydraulic drive system, a Tox Powerpackage EKSD and a base frame. The press is equipped with a safety control, a swivelling control panel and a pedal switch, protective sheathing and a safety light grid. For universal use with most tools, the throat of the C-frame press is 200mm and the tool aperture is 200mm.

The pneumo-hydraulic Powerpackage cylinder Tox EKSD generates a maximum press force of 130kN at 6bar compressed air. The 100mm total stroke of the cylinder and the real powerstroke of 10mm ensure that the punching, forming or pressing-in/pressing position are attained at a very high speed and the press-force stroke is realised in a sensitive way. In order to limit the strokes and reduce mechanical loads, the drive cylinder is provided with total stroke setting and damping of the cutting impact.

The Powerpackage is equipped with a power bypass. The C-frame press, with its drive cylinder, is mounted on a base frame that also supports the circuitry and the control technique, as well as the protective sheathing with the safety light grille. Tox has mounted the C-frame press off-centre on the base frame so that longer piece parts (up to 500mm) can also be machined within the fully protected press area. The press control is coupled with the safety elements so that no bridging or other manipulations are possible. Usually the press is started by two-hand actuation, where both keys of the two-hand control are pressed simultaneously.

Due to the protective sheathing and the above-mentioned safety light grid, the press area is fully protected against the intervention of third parties. Tox has succeeded in realising the C-frame press system mainly from standard components taken from the Tox construction kit. Armin Bieri, department head of mechanics at Vebo Werkstatt Olten, said: 'We use the press in a flexible way for punching or separating and produce 33 different types on it of C-profiles for our customer. 'We then mount slides in the profiles and the C-profile with slide completes sun protection units and revolving shutters. 'The length of the C-profiles is from 75 to 500mm and they all can be machined within the protected press area,' he added.

2010-06-15T17:03:00.000-07:00

Factory Master Used For Pipe-Assembly Manufacture

B and D is using the Factory Master system in the manufacture of fabricated pipe kits and assemblies, which are used on RR commercial, military, marine and power-generation jet engines. The integrated system can handle complex BOMs, purchase ordering and production procedures, enabling it to keep track of the entire process.

The Material Requirements Planning Report (MRP) allows customers to ascertain what is currently available and what is going to be available against sales orders. Factory Master enables: bulk purchasing of common components; greater proactivity; reduced 'fire-fighting'; time saved identifying and ordering requirements; and forecast of results in shorter lead times.

2010-06-15T17:00:00.000-07:00

Hepcomotion Develops Actuators For X-Y-Z Systems

Hepcomotion has developed a range of actuators, enabling it to supply X-Y-Z systems for industrial and scientific tasks such as pick and place, automated assembly, inspection and product labelling. According to the company, X-Y-Z linear motion systems are widely used throughout industry. For many applications, using the same type of linear actuator in each of the axes is an adequate solution. However, with manufacturing economics focusing on greater productivity, X-Y-Z systems are increasingly being specified to automate vital processes.

Their speed of operation is often greater and their duty cycle much longer. The new actuators have been developed to address these different needs so that each axis operates optimally and contributes to the overall efficiency and longevity of the system. This concept still allows X-Y-Z systems to be constructed using standard, off-the-shelf components but accommodates the specific characteristics of the application. The Hepcomotion method is to recommend the most appropriate actuator to meet the criteria of a given application.

However, to illustrate the point, a typical configuration for a low-weight payload system would start with the company's PDU2 linear actuator as the foundation of the X axis. The Hepcomotion PDU2 is a cost-effective and compact actuator. It comprises a slotted profile into which fits a toothed belt drive and a carriage - an arrangement that effectively seals the unit. The actuator's Herculane wheels run virtually friction free on the inside surface of the profile, providing stable support for the carriage plate; felt wipers sweep debris from their path.

This also means that the wheels operate well without the need for lubrication. The Y axis of a typical X-Y-Z system is often required to have a particularly high load capacity and stiffness against twisting loads. The new Hepcomotion PDU2M is said to address this need. It shares the same technology and format as the PDU2 but with moment load capacity improved by 200 per cent and stiffness by 1,000 per cent. The direct load capacity is also 50 per cent greater. In practice, this means, for example, that designers can use a single PDU2M unit as a horizontal axis in an X-Z system, where previously two PDU2 units working in parallel would have been required to provide the necessary rigidity and strength.

The needs of the Z axis are different again, with enhanced linear force and higher gearing often required. The new PSD80 linear actuator is suitable for this duty, with drive from a smooth stainless-steel lead screw operating with a bearing polymer nut. Again, it uses the same Herculane wheel technology in a unit that is matched to the other axes in terms of performance, size and cost. A choice of motors and gearboxes is provided with all Hepcomotion driven actuators, for which flanges are provided to facilitate connection. A Smart Drive Taranis stepper motor drive and control package is also available.

Left, right or double drive shafts can be supplied as well as other options such as different carriage designs, holding brakes, positioning encoders, limit switches and cable carriers. The development of the company's Heavy Duty HDS2 product has introduced larger bearings, slides and racks, additional mounting elements and automatic lubrication systems. For instance, the largest vee bearing now measures 150mm in diameter and has a radial capacity of 100,000N (10 tonnes); these developments have opened up application possibilities in the heavy handling markets.

The largest aluminium beam now offered is a 300 x 200mm section and is strong enough to be used as a standalone X axis. With slides complete with rack drive fitted, the solution is often more cost effective than machining a steel beam with slides attached, according to Hepcomotion. The necessary rack lubrication facility is provided in the X-axis carriage, which typically forms the mounting structure for the Z axis. All Hepcomotion actuators fit together using standard components to create multi-axis systems that are guaranteed to perform better than similar units where 'general-purpose' actuators are used for all axes.

Lightweight aluminium T-slotted profiles allow the axes to be incorporated into frames, such as the Hepcomotion MCS Aluminium Frame and Machine Construction System or more complex machines. The company supplies its X-Y-Z systems as individual parts, in kit form or fully assembled multi-axis units. Its approach to X-Y-Z system design can be applied to configurations with a working envelope of just a few centimetres right up to those with dimensions of several metres.

2010-06-15T16:57:00.000-07:00

Small-Scale Machine For Micro Injection Moulding

Engel has developed a small-scale electric injection unit with a 15mm screw diameter, suitable for micro injection moulding. Using an E-max 50/50 or an E-victory 50/28, it is now possible to achieve shot weights of less than 1g and part weights down to 0.1g with a high level of reproduction accuracy, according to the company. Two new drive variants with injection speeds of 330mm/sec (standard) and 550mm/sec (high) are available for the screw diameters (15/18/20mm).

The optimised screw geometry, in combination with a specially designed feed opening throat, enable the trouble-free processing of standard pellets with improved plasticising and reproducibility, even with this small diameter.

2010-06-15T16:55:00.000-07:00

Beko Oil-Vapour Monitor Gains TUV Certification

Beko's Metpoint OCV oil-vapour monitoring system for chemical and pharmaceutical production processes has been certified by TUV Nord in accordance with the requirements of ISO 8573-1, Classes 1 to 4. According to the company, even 'oil-free' components give no guarantee for 'oil-free' compressed air, owing to the contamination of the ambient air/intake air. In most cases, a certain residual oil content cannot be entirely avoided in standard applications.

The precise monitoring of the oil-vapour content, which is possible at any time, is important. In particular, in critical production processes in the chemical and pharmaceutical industry, in food production and surface coating, the analysis and control of compressed-air quality is a crucial factor, according to Beko. The network-compatible Metpoint OCV offers constant monitoring down to the range of a thousandth mg/m3 and features a touch-screen display and 24/7 process reliability through online measurement.

2010-06-15T16:53:00.000-07:00

IMTS 2010 To Feature CNC Control Developments

Fanuc CNC America will showcase advanced CNC control developments at IMTS 2010, along with industry solutions to meet strict automotive, aerospace, medical, heavy industry and job-shop requirements. The company, which will be found in Booth S-8919, will present the new model 30i-B Series CNC Control, the 0i-D/0i-DMate Control with newly enhanced functionality, the new 35i-B CNC Control for transfer-line machines, new five-axis volumetric error compensation and various industry solutions. The new Fanuc CNC 30i-B Series Control is an upgrade from the 30i-A Series.

The 30i-B Series offers enhanced features and functions, with advancements in operability and maintainability including a USB memory port, enhancements in the dual safety check, a new punch press and laser functionality. For advanced machining with high accuracy, the 30i-B provides advancements in high-speed five-axis capabilities, with architecture and software algorithms to reduce cycle times while improving part accuracy and quality. The machine is said to combine reliability and high-speed five-axis features for complex processes.

The 30i-B also features High Speed Smooth TCP, high-speed multi-path PMC, an enhanced tilted working plane and high-speed smoothing functions, enhanced DSPs for advanced servo control such as multi-axis control and high-speed current control and arbitrary speed threading. In addition, the 30i-B has enhanced FSSB and network performance, improved diagnostic functions for MTTR reduction and enhanced DSP for advanced servo control, according to the company. The 0i-D/0i-D Mate Control offers improved features and functionality that are claimed to be cost effective.

These include nano interpolation, Al contour II control, jerk control, a tool management function and grinding functions. The new 35i-B Control, based on the 30i-B series, is intended for transfer-line machines. Suitable for simple high-speed drilling and transfer machining, the 35i-B is equipped with a touch-screen machine operator panel and embedded Ethernet. Fanuc CNC's new five-axis volumetric error compensation increases machining accuracy by evaluating the tool location and orientation error throughout the machining volume. This is said to offer improvements over axis-only error compensation.

2010-06-15T16:51:00.000-07:00

Unison Launches All-Electric Tube Benders At Mach

Unison launched a range of all-electric tube bending machines, ideal for most small- to medium-diameter applications involving high-precision small batch sizes and expensive materials, at Mach 2010. Incorporating a real-time Ethernet control system architecture and a new release of programming and control software, the machines are said to enhance the shape-forming capability and flexibility of servomotor-controlled bending. The new UK-built Breeze machines bend faster, exploit advanced multi-axis synchronisation capabilities to support sophisticated roll forming, improve the tool adjustments that can be employed during the bending cycle to generate ultra-precise part shapes and offer a visual collision-checking programming feature as standard.

They also feature an open architecture that can be adapted to integrate an application-specific capability or to build work cells. An all-electric architecture provides tube benders with performance benefits in terms of setup speed, repeatability, lower energy consumption and noise reduction when compared with traditional hydraulically powered machinery, according to the company. At the heart of Unison's new Breeze machine range is a real-time machine and motion system based on the deterministic Ethernet-compatible Powerlink protocol. A 100Mbit/sec network links all of the servomotor drives required to control bending operations.

The speed of the network makes it possible to co-ordinate the movement of the various servomotor axes used during bending - such as the carriage, the plane of bend and the clamp roller - more rapidly, allowing the company to improve the speed of bending for many common tasks by around 10 per cent. The quality of bend shapes and wall thicknesses can also be improved thanks to finer real-time control over the motion profiles used by key bending axes, which move as the rotary draw bending process takes place, such as the carriage and the follower die. The real-time interpolation of multiple axes is also supported by the machine's new motion control architecture.

In particular, this allows Unison to equip machines with flexible roll-forming tools that are able to vary the radius of bending with precision during the bending cycle. Other benefits include improved diagnostics and data collection, which can assist with both programming and maintenance, and connection to factory networks for changing programs and reporting production metrics, for example. The company is also releasing programming and operating software for the tube benders. Among the new and improved features in Version 10 of its Unibend package is a collision-checking capability that helps users to program the machine for new parts. Bending operations are visualised using a 3D model of the machine.

If users see any potential collision problems, bend sequences can be reversed and intervening carriage and rotation movements can be employed to ensure the part can be manufactured easily. Programming itself can be achieved in about a couple of minutes by entering new ISO, XYZ or YBC values (distance tube is pushed out, rotation and degree of bend), linking from computer-aided-design (CAD) or measuring machines, adapting an existing template or interactively teaching the machine. Unison's software-controlled tube bending machinery incorporates a new networked control architecture. Almost all tube bending machines are configured around a base design to suit the user's intended applications, including or excluding facilities as required.

Unison is currently seeing an increase in demand for work cells that integrate tube bending with other processes. The new Ethernet architecture provides flexibility for configuring and building integrated machines and cells; the control network can be very long, allowing physically large processes to be accommodated, and one network controller can handle hundreds of motion axes and other control system resources such as sensors. The networked nature of the control system architecture makes it easier to upgrade systems later in their lifecycle to integrate processes such as loading, end forming and unloading, for example. The company can supply the new architecture on any all-electric tube bending machines capable of handling tubing with diameters up to 180mm (7in). Machines can be fitted with single- or multi-stack tooling and with two or more bending heads.

2010-06-15T16:48:00.000-07:00

Hydrocarbon Fluorimeters Monitor Oil-Spill Extent

Chelsea's range of hydrocarbon fluorimeters is being deployed in the Gulf of Mexico to monitor the extent of the oil spill. Originally designed for military use, these reliable, robust, high-sensitivity fluorimeters have previously been used to detect crude and refined oils in a range of environments. The UV Aquatracka and the Uvilux submersible fluorimeters monitor the concentration of refined (360nm) or crude hydrocarbons (440nm) in a range of coastal, oceanographic and freshwater applications.

They have been designed to be deployed independently, as well as from submersible vehicles, diver held, moored, profiled or as part of a flow-through system. These robust, compact, lightweight instruments are suitable for shallow and full ocean depth. They are also suitable for long-term deployment and will be used to monitor the extent of the pollution caused after the oil slick has dispersed. The UV Aquatracka displays real-time, live data via the Chelsea supplied GUI. Similarly, real-time data from the Uvilux can be transmitted via a Bluetooth wireless link to either a PDA or a PC.

2010-06-15T16:45:00.000-07:00

Veolia Filters Aid Effluent Wastewater Treatment

Glen Water has selected Hydrotech Discfilter technology from Veolia for a project that is providing final effluent wastewater treatment and a sludge disposal solution in compliance with EU Directives. The Hydrotech Discfilter is considered to be a flexible technology that uses a series of segmented discs to support a woven media (polyester or stainless steel). The Hydrotech Discfilter was selected for use on the Omega scheme due to its modular design and compact layout. Under normal operating conditions the Hydrotech Discfilter will remain stationary.

The influent enters the inside of the unit via a central drum, which houses a series of paired filter elements that remove particulate solids from the influent. As the water passes through the woven filter, solids are captured on the inner face of the element. Accumulation of these captured solids reduces the hydraulic throughput, which results in an increase in head loss over unit. At a predetermined influent level, the unit automatically initiates a backwash, which flushes away the captured solids from the inner face of the filter, resulting in clean elements media being presented to the influent.

The Hydrotech Discfilter uses the filtered water produced by the process for backwashing. The benefit of this system is that power consumption is reduced by only backwashing to meet on-site demands. The dirty backwash water produced by the Hydrotech Discfilter process is collected by a trough located within the unit. Backwash water is discharged under gravity for onsite disposal or blending to the head of the works. The backwash water volume produced by the Hydrotech Discfilter is typically between one per cent and three per cent of the maximum design flow. Filtration is continuous throughout the backwash cycle and once the cycle is completed, the Discfilter stops rotating.

For the Northern Ireland Water Omega project, the Hydrotech Discfilter has been applied in both its tank and frame using both the 1700 and 2200 versions. The tanked version has been designed to be a stand-alone model that can be adapted to any site where a suitable base is available. This Hydrotech Discfilter is housed inside a stainless-steel tank for direct installation at site. The frame version has been designed for installation inside a concrete chamber and has the flexibility to be adapted for use inside an existing sand filter structure. The Hydrotech Discfilters are providing tertiary treatment at four sewage treatment works in Northern Ireland: Armagh, Richhill, Ballyrickard and North Down Ards.

Armagh has been designed to serve a population equivalent of 21,000. The scheme uses two HSF 2212-2F filters, capable of meeting the projected 2030 design horizon of 50,000PE. Richhill, which currently receives about 1,300m3/day of mainly domestic wastewater, has been designed for a 2030 loading of 5,000PE; this duty is met by two HSF 1706/5-2F filters. Ballyrickard receives wastewater from a 50,000PE catchment and discharges treated effluent into Strangford Lough via Newtown Burn; consequently the Northern Ireland Environment Agency has imposed a more stringent consent on this discharge. Here, the duty is met by three HSF 2214-2F filters, each rated for 50 per cent of the flow.

The North Down Ards works is a new facility that will rationalise the existing wastewater treatment systems in the surrounding catchments. It treats combined domestic and industrial wastewater from a 110,000PE to meet the requirements of the Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive. After sequence batch reactors, tertiary treatment uses four tank-mounted HSF 2220-IF filters prior to UV treatment. The Hydrotech Discfilter has proved a cost-effective and reliable solution for tertiary treatment applications. The compact design means a small footprint compared with other technologies such as sand filters and the low wash-water consumption gives it a clear hydraulic advantage.

Standard modular designs in four ranges can individually treat up to 400 litres/s (any flow rate can be treated by applying further Hydrotech Discfilter units to suit on site conditions). The units are available in a choice of materials: ABS plastic or stainless steel for the discs and 304, 316 or Duplex stainless steel for frames and tanks. The woven media can be supplied to suit any application with a range between 10 and 500 micron. The Hydrotech Discfilter is considered to have a low head loss, low power consumption and minimal maintenance requirements.

2010-06-15T15:59:00.000-07:00

Ethernet Cables Incorporate Flexlife Cable Jackets

TURCK has announced Cat 5e Ethernet cables that are Gigabit capable and are particularly suitable for harsh environments. The cables incorporate incorporate flexlife cable jackets, which are resistant to abrasion, crushing forces and chemicals.

The Ethernet cables are available with four or eight conductors (two and four pair counts). The cables may be specified with straight or right-angle RJ45 or M12 connectors, accommodating diverse application requirements.

2010-06-15T15:58:00.000-07:00

Aker Delivers Floating Platform To Statoil

Aker Solutions has designed, engineered and assembled a semi-submersible platform for the Gjoa oil and gas field offshore Norway that is expected to help significantly reduce carbon emissions. With a topside weight of 22,000 tonnes and hull dry weight of 15,000 tonnes, the Gjoa deck measures 110m long and 85m wide. The platform's highest point is the flare tower at 143m.

More than 500 Aker Solutions engineers have been mobilised to design the platform, from Oslo, Norway, and Mumbai, India. During the final assembly at Stord, peak manning reached 3,000 skilled operators. Installation of the mooring system, transportation and installation of the Gjoa platform is carried out by Aker Solutions' subsidiary Aker Marine Contractors.

2010-06-15T15:54:00.000-07:00

PFC And FV Technology For Research And Development

GYS, a welding gear and battery charger manufacturer, has invested in Power Factor Correction (PFC) and Flexible Voltage (FV) technology across a range of MMA for its research-and-development centre. PFC technology offers the user a range of benefits, including a reduction in power consumption. The requirement for less power also allows the user to weld at higher levels on a lower power supply. Using GYS's PFC-equipped MMA machines will allow high-duty-cycle welding at 160A (sufficient for 4mm rods) on a regular 13A power supply.

Normally, a 160A machine without PFC is capable of welding only 3.2mm electrodes at 125A using a 13A fused plug. Inside electrical cables, energy travels at various frequencies. In the UK, we use energy at 50Hz, but up to 25 per cent of that energy travels at either higher or lower frequencies called diffractions. Mathematical models show that all of these diffractions add to each other for certain frequencies (also called harmonics) and a significant amount of energy travels at these frequencies.

Welding equipment without PFC technology can only draw the energy at 50Hz, which is not very efficient, while equipment with PFC technology is able to draw all the energy that is available from all the frequency levels. GYS is also equipping machines with FV technology. FV machines can operate at any voltage from 85V to 265V. Suitable for 110V applications and whenever there is a likelihood of variations in voltage, for example, on site with a generator and maybe with long extension leads, the combined technology of PFC and FV welding performance can be enhanced where there is only a suboptimal power source available.

For instance, the GYSMI 196 FV is capable of welding 3.2mm electrodes on 110V on very long extension leads. These technologies are currently incorporated into the GYS range of inverter MMA. TIG and plasma machines include the GYSMI195, a 230V 160A MMA machine; the GYSMI 196FV, a MMA machine and Master 200FV, a 200A PFC and FV MMA/TIG inverter; the TIG200DC HF FV; TIG 207AC/DC HF FV TIG machines; and the 31FV plasma cutter.

2010-05-19T12:45:00.000-07:00

ISC Implements CDS Modelserver

Catalog Data Solutions (CDS) has announced that ISC Engineering now incorporates CDS Modelserver and CDS Catalog to present and aid online selection of products and CAD model downloads. ISC Engineering provides over-moulding technology for OEM and cable assemblies companies. 'We want our customers to be able to find and download CAD models of our products to simplify the design process,' said Steve Burk, president, ISC Engineering. 'To do this, we now use CDS software for its functionality and low cost.

'The conversion process results in a satisfactory user experience for our customers,' he added. 'Online 3D models are an important sales and marketing tool for all industrial suppliers and distributors and this implementation exploits the Adobe 3D CAD capability to add another user convenience - all the ISC Engineering product CAD models are viewable with the Adobe 3D PDF viewer already installed on most PCs,' said John Major, chief executive, Catalog Data Solutions.

2010-05-19T12:43:00.000-07:00

Presspart To Exhibit Deep-Drawn Metal Components

Presspart will be showcasing its latest deep-drawn metal components on stand D3 at the International Subcontract Manufacturing Show, Subcon 2010, to be held in Birmingham, UK, from 8-10 June. Presspart is a specialist supplier of metal precision parts for a wide variety of industries and applications - from electronics to utilities, heating and ventilation.

Presspart's production processes include extremely long draws, ironed walls, multiple piercings and complex forms. Its capabilities extend to products from many different materials, including aluminium, stainless steel, carbon steel, brass, nickel, inconel and galfan.

2010-05-19T12:39:00.000-07:00

Touch Point Products For Off-Highway Vehicles

Southco's products cover access points and user touch points for all interior, chassis and entry applications associated with off-highway vehicles and equipment. Alex Wakeley, industry manager for transportation at Southco said: 'We have a product for everything, from interior latches and fasteners to the cab's entry-door system, and virtually every single access point on the chassis. Southco has addressed everything from precise control of the cab environment, including the angle of the armrest and the position of LCD touch screens, to a range of access hardware options that enable everything to be securely stored yet easily accessible.

The company's platform of intuitive Touch Point products for interior applications include ergonomic latches to secure access panels, doors and storage enclosures, position-control devices that consistently hold display screens, armrests and headrests, and electronic access systems that provide convenience and security for storage, access doors and ignition. Southco has developed a range of off-highway chassis solutions, comprising a portfolio of robust, compact and reliable vibration-resistant latches that provide complete protection from unauthorised access.

They last the lifetime of vehicles, help keep them running and lower the overall cost of ownership by reducing the need for maintenance contracts. Chassis application areas include tool storage, safety guards, engine cowling, access panels, engine hoods and cooling systems. Wakeley added: 'Over the past few years we have created a series of chassis solutions through further developing our existing medium-duty vise-action compression latches, such as the N4 with a large handle and special cup, and introduced new products for applications requiring even more rugged latches.

'These include the heavy-duty N2 folding handle range of compression latches. Southco offers a range of push-to-close R4 rotary latches, actuators and cables for the entry-door system itself. Southco has worked with OEMs to introduce a comprehensive package of electronic-access-control systems (EAS) that the market demands. This EAS range has been designed to combine robust rotary latch security and electronic access convenience in a single integrated solution.

The focus is to address the issue of preventing theft - of both vehicles and in-cab equipment - by incorporating sophisticated access systems into the vehicle design, from key code flexibility to electronic access systems, providing a range of solutions for differing levels of security. Southco has detailed its global full service solution for the off-highway industry with the launch of a brochure pack, which can be customised to meet individual requirements. A complete pack comprises three leaflets, each demonstrating Southco's product and service offer for a specific area of application, namely interior, chassis and exterior. A fourth leaflet gives an overview of the total global service.

2010-05-19T12:09:00.000-07:00

Shell Supplies Lubricants For Ferrari Production

Shell provides Ferrari with more than 250,000l of fuel and over 40,000 tonnes of lubricants to enable its automotive production each year. This includes a range of metalworking fluids that offer protection and efficiency during machining and finishing. Ferrari currently uses three Shell fluids in its new machining area, which finishes various engine parts. All of the Shell fluids are water-miscible cutting fluids and include Shell Adrana D 208 and Shell Sitala CE 3602, which are both semi-synthetic, mineral-based fluids.

The third fluid is a mineral-free, fully ester-based fluid, Shell Sitala AF 800 and has been specifically developed to machine a range of aluminium alloys. Shell uses a development process to identify operational requirements known as 4D and develop high-performance lubricants that offer optimum performance during machining. This approach is designed to ensure that fluids are developed to machine a range of metals - hard and soft - and to perform in extreme temperatures. Shell Sitala AF 800 is an amine- and boron-free fluid and was introduced as an improvement on previous mineral-based products.

It consistently delivers higher tool performance through longer tool life and better piece surface finish. Shell Adrana D 208, with high cleanliness properties, is used for shaft grinding and Shell Sitala CE 3602 is employed in severe steel-cutting/drilling/threading operations. All products are designed to deliver maximum machinery performance. In addition to providing metalworking fluids, Shell provides Ferrari with onsite expertise to help maximise fluid performance and operational efficiency.

Sinol, a Torino-based subsidiary of Shell Lubricants that specialises in metalworking fluids, provides a Product Plus Service arrangement. This covers fluid-stock management and application management, including filling and topping up of equipment, as well as analysing, cleaning and, if required, treating of lubricants and equipment. Concentration, pH, alkalinity, microbiological contamination and bacteria levels are checked to ensure fluids continue to deliver superior protection during machining and finishing.

2010-05-19T12:07:00.000-07:00

Bete's Hydrowhirl Performs Tank-Cleaning Duties

The Hydrowhirl Orbitor from Bete is designed for high-performance clean-in-place (CIP) tank cleaning in industries such as food, brewing, beverage, dairy and pharmaceuticals. The Hydrowhirl device has a minimum number of moving parts and can be completely stripped and rebuilt onsite in less than 15 minutes. This optimum serviceability eliminates the time-consuming maintenance overhauls associated with other types of rotary tank-cleaning devices.

Hydrowhirl is also self-cleaning and self-lubricating so the possibility of process contamination is eliminated. Its compact design allows it to be fitted through small, restricted access flanges. It is suitable for large tanks (up to 130ft in diameter) often found in the food, dairy, beverage and pharmaceutical industries, where high-performance cleaning with reduced cycle times and low water, energy and chemical consumption are important considerations.

The range includes 10 standard models and options include two or four nozzles, variable cycle times, male and female connections, 360deg wash pattern, 180deg down and up wash patterns. Typical applications include food and dairy for raw milk storage, spray driers, process and storage vessels, beverage and brewing, for process vessels, bright beer tanks, coppers and maltings and in chemicals, coatings and paints manufacture, for process and storage silos and mixers.

2010-05-19T12:04:00.000-07:00

ESAB Demobus Displays Latest Welding Equipment

ESAB, a producer of welding and cutting equipment and consumables, is bringing its Demobus to the UK in June 2010. The mobile showroom is packed with the latest developments in welding and cutting equipment, automation, consumables and welding accessories, including PPE (personal protective equipment). ESAB has used a Demobus to tour Europe for several years, stopping at distributors to present to customers an overview of the company's welding and cutting products.

As well as static displays and videos, the Demobus features live welding demonstrations of a range of equipment and consumables. The ESAB Demobus is also being used as part of the launch for the 'go anywhere welders', the Caddymig C160i and C200i. These two compact lightweight inverter-powered machines will be demonstrated throughout the tour. They can be used for a broad range of applications and can run off a 230V electric supply or operated by a generator. The Caddymig's are also configured for using gas-less cored wire, eliminating the need to carry around heavy and expensive gas cylinders when out on a job.

The ESAB Demobus will start its tour at the Farnborough College of Technology Aerospace and Automotive Academy supported by local ESAB distributor Britannia Welding Supplies. The Demobus will then visit a selection of ESAB distributor premises including Elmdale Welding and Engineering Supplies in Hadleigh, Suffolk; Truflame Welding Equipment in Sheffield; Complete Welding Services in Oldham; Thomas Proctor and Son in Gateshead and Weldsafe in Glasgow. From 24-27 June, the Demobus will be at the Royal Highland Show in Edinburgh in conjunction with local distributor Ask for Service, moving on to Highland Supplies in Inverness on 28 June.

2010-05-19T12:01:00.000-07:00

Torque Control Technology Offers Improved Safety

Prodrive has developed a torque control system that is designed to improve the productivity, safety and running costs of large off-highway vehicles working on low-grip surfaces. The system adds electronic control to the vehicle's existing differentials to deliver a substantial improvement in performance at a cost-effective price, according to Prodrive. A large, heavily laden off-highway vehicle descending a slippery slope can present a substantial challenge for the driver: locking the differentials will improve braking performance but the ability to steer is greatly reduced; unlocking them restores steering authority but compromises braking.

Climbing a slippery slope is equally difficult as the driver has to juggle the differential controls to switch between traction and steering. Even with the most highly trained personnel, wear on the driveline and tyres is increased and the potential safety issues associated with guiding a substantial vehicle with compromised steering, braking and driver concentration are significant. Prodrive's ATD (Active Torque Dynamics) is based on an algorithm that controls the differentials, optimising the traction at each wheel. ATD is compatible with most lockable differentials, so as well as being suitable for new vehicle programmes, it can also be retro fitted to existing vehicle types and even to vehicle fleets in service.

In normal conditions, differentials allow wheels on the same axle to rotate at different speeds, enabling a vehicle to turn. However, if one wheel meets an area of low friction, this wheel can lose traction and spin taking drive away from the wheel that still has grip. As a result there is little or no driving force from this axle. By locking the differential, both wheels are forced to rotate at the same speed enabling the wheel with grip to produce drive. However, locking a differential severely restricts the vehicle's ability to turn and forces the tyres to scrub.

Prodrive's ATD system automatically controls the differentials on the vehicle to optimise the traction, while maintaining the vehicle's ability to turn. Optimisation of the traction improves stability and braking, manoeuvrability and reliability. 'Most large off-highway vehicles have multi-plate differentials that are capable of being closed progressively, even if they are configured by the vehicle manufacturer to only provide locked or unlocked functionality,' explains Prodrive's Matt Taylor, head of vehicle dynamics. 'ATD builds on the capability of this existing hardware to provide individual control of the traction torque at each wheel and the braking torque distribution across each axle.

'Real-time proportional control allows very fine adjustments, making full use of the available grip and braking power without compromising steering authority,' he added. The system requires input signals for wheel speed, steering wheel angle and yaw rate, which are usually available on the vehicle's existing electronic databus. This data is used to construct a mathematical model that compares the vehicle's actual dynamic behaviour with the behaviour requested by the driver. When there is a disparity, the system adjusts each differential to apportion engine torque or braking torque optimally between the individual wheels.

The system can be further refined by the addition of accelerometers to directly measure understeer or oversteer instead of estimating by calculation. The system could also offer savings in operating costs through reduced tyre wear and driveline shock. 'Turning corners with the differentials locked or attempting differential locking while moving causes tyre damage and, at several thousand pounds each, that's quite an overhead,' said Taylor. 'Driving with locked differentials also puts tremendous stress on the drivetrain. 'ATD is smooth and progressive, so helps eliminate these expensive problems,' he added.

ATD is also said to improve the vehicle's turning circle on slippery roads and roster flexibility by reducing driver skill requirements. 'ATD increases driving safety by reducing the skill burden on the driver, who then only needs to concentrate on the speed and direction of the vehicle,' said Taylor. 'With a lower training requirement, more people can drive the vehicle safely, so operators have a much wider pool of suitable drivers,' he added. Prodrive has already demonstrated the potential of ATD in many projects across a wide variety of vehicles, including heavy off-highway vehicles. 'In the off-highway trials, the system improved stopping ability where there were different grip levels on each side of an axle,' said David Hemming, Prodrive's head of engineering.

'The combined tractive and turning performance was also improved. 'For example, when cornering on a hill, the vehicle responded closely to driver steering input. 'It's important to stay focussed on the task of managing the interaction between the tyre and the ground. 'There have been numerous attempts to control torque through the vehicle driveline with variable levels of success and often with substantial hardware changes. 'Our focus is on the delivery of solutions with a degree of independence from hardware choice,' he added.

2010-05-19T11:59:00.000-07:00

Catalog Covers Test Tools For Harsh Environments

Fluke's 124-page full-colour 2010/2011 Test Tools Catalogue includes handheld electronic test and measurement equipment for operating in harsh environments. An introductory section of the catalogue covers all recently introduced tools, such as the 810 Vibration Tester, the 233 Remote Display Multimeter, Ti32/Ti9 Industrial Thermal Imagers and TiR32/TiRx Thermal Imagers for Buildings, the 27 II/28 II Rugged Industrial Multimeters for operating in harsh conditions and the 1750 Power Recorder.

The catalogue contains classified sections on all its handheld test tools under categories including digital multimeters, clamp meters and electrical testers, insulation testers and earth ground testers, installation testers and PAT testers, digital thermometers, thermal imagers, laser distance meters, indoor air-quality tools, scopemeters, power-quality tools, field calibrators, vibration testers, Atex-certified test tools and general accessories.

There are also pages covering money-saving combo kits, Fluke after-sales service, web portals that help with troubleshooting and the correct tool selection in industrial maintenance, electrical and process applications, and on safety issues and other application/background articles.

2010-05-19T11:57:00.000-07:00

Aptiv Film Enhances Mobile Phone Speaker Diaphragm

Zhejiang New Jialian, a manufacturer of miniature acoustic components, has selected Victrex Polymer Solutions' Aptiv film for its new mobile phone speaker diaphragm. The company, headquartered in Jiashan, China, researches, develops, manufactures and distributes communication electronic acoustic devices, such as communications speakers, receivers, buzzers and Bluetooth headsets. Zhejiang New Jialian selected Aptiv film to meet the increasing demands of the mobile phone speaker diaphragm application and to overcome various challenges in product design.

The deployment of Aptiv film is intended to improve the acoustic performance, durability and lifespan of the speakers. Compared with similar products, Victrex claims that its Aptiv film provides an improvement in processability, acoustic performance (especially in low-end response), durability, high-temperature performance at temperatures exceeding 220C (428F), chemical resistance, tear resistance and fatigue resistance.

'Using Aptiv film allows us to produce new mobile phone speakers with compact size and high power-output performance,' said Jin Yidong, vice general manager of Zhejiang New Jialian. Edmond Chu, Aptiv films manager at Victrex Asia Pacific, said: 'Aptiv films offer a broad range of thicknesses from six microns to 750 microns along with outstanding film thickness tolerances to provide consistent acoustic properties and, through standard processing techniques, it can be formed into complex shapes and unique designs. 'This critical advantage makes Aptiv film a good fit for parts and components in miniature speakers,' he added.

Aptiv film can satisfy a range of speaker diaphragm designs, including single-layer designs, multilayer designs, speciality acoustics-coated diaphragms, filled acoustic grades and diaphragms with ceramic stiffeners. The acoustic properties and the high-temperature, mechanical, fatigue and processing attributes of Aptiv films, produced from Victrex Peek polymer, are suitable for use in acoustic film applications for original equipment manufacturers, designers and processors in the manufacture of speaker systems and acoustics-related components.

2010-05-05T12:37:00.000-07:00

Axion And Projen Look To Biofuels Opportunities

Axion has joined forces with Projen in a strategic partnership to develop business opportunities in biofuels, advanced thermal waste processing, specialty chemicals and mineral processing sectors. Through this alliance, clients can access a broader portfolio of expertise that is said to combine Axion's process design and development capabilities with Projen's project management capabilities.

The two companies forged links several years ago when Axion helped Greenergy Biofuels to select Projen as its preferred supplier of project management services for its fuel storage facilities and large- scale biodiesel production plant.

2010-05-05T12:35:00.000-07:00

Control Valves Help Meet Environmental Regulations

Metso Automation launches the Metso intelligent control valves (ICV) suitable for both general and demanding applications in hydrocarbon processing plants. The company's ICV helps process plants to meet environmental regulations by using control valve constructions that are said to provide high performance, reliability and control accuracy. This control valve offering consists of eccentric rotary plug valves, V-port segment valves, Neles Rotaryglobe valves, high-performance eccentric disc valves and top-entry rotary control valves.

Metso's ICV rotary control valves can reduce fugitive emissions by eliminating the gland-packing leakages often associated with rising stem globe valves. Metso's non-leakage, live-loaded valve packing prevents the loss of raw material and also eliminates the need for gland-packing maintenance and its associated maintenance costs. The control performance of Metso's ICV results from the frictionless, backlash-free valve and actuator construction and valve-position control built into the Neles ND9000 intelligent valve controller.

The ND9000 valve controller provides 'best in class' performance that minimises process variability and enables true predictive-maintenance capabilities thanks to its embedded online diagnostics. Metso's valve offering includes the Neles, Jamesbury and Mapag brands, which are suitable for flow-control, ESD and automated on-off applications. Metso valves meet the specific needs of individual applications as well as of process requirements and international standards.

2010-05-05T12:25:00.000-07:00

GE Holds Launch Event At Sensor And Test 2010

GE Sensing and Inspection Technologies has announced an event to launch the DPI620 communicator/calibrator and the Pace6000 pneumatic pressure controller/indicator. The DPI620 communicator/calibrator now incorporates full Hart capability and carries both Atex and IECEx certification.

The Pace6000 pneumatic pressure controller/indicator with dual range configuration provides two instruments within a single casing. The company will also be introducing its Terps pressure sensor technology. This launch event will take place in the Madrid Room of the Nuremberg Exhibition Centre at 1pm on 19 May at the Sensor and Test 2010 exhibition.

2010-05-05T12:23:00.000-07:00

Intelatrac System Monitors Plant Workflow

Invensys Operations Management has released its updated Wonderware Intelatrac mobile workforce management and decision-support system to drive consistent best practice in plant operations. The Intelatrac 4.0 system's dynamic procedures, coupled with the open Wonderware system platform, can help companies adapt their workflow based on actual plant conditions. The updated system features new tools that extend and integrate it with important plant systems, allowing users to share data with the mobile workforce, providing better visibility into real-time plant operations and helping achieve asset and productivity excellence.

The Intelatrac 4.0 system has a new oil and gas module that provides specialty calculations for tank volumes and pressure chart conversions. It can also deliver mobile data collection and calculation capabilities to hydrocarbon accounting systems, such as Tieto Energy Components, enhancing the ability to reliably operate remote production facilities. 'Our Intelatrac 4.0 system changes the impact a mobile workforce can have on the operations of an industrial plant or facility to drive operational, asset and productivity excellence in real time,' said Jim Frider, mobile solutions product marketing manager, Invensys Operations Management.

'It enables our clients and ecosystem partners to integrate a number of systems throughout the plant with an Intelatrac mobile device, delivering tasks directly to mobile operators and making them more effective and efficient. 'These capabilities help close the information gap that many mobile systems have and deliver useful information directly to the people that need it the most,' he added. The Intelatrac system enables clients to execute predefined procedures and strategic responses under changing environmental or business conditions, resulting in a highly responsive, collaborative plant environment.

This can facilitate operational best practices by mobile workers, connecting them to enterprise asset management systems, equipment reliability systems and process historians to deliver integration and visibility into the performance of non-instrumented or stranded equipment and assets. Additionally, the Intelatrac system helps streamline health, safety and environmental compliance and is claimed to deliver rapid ROI, typically within four to six months. The Intelatrac 4.0 system also offers capabilities for operator-driven reliability, cost-effective regulatory compliance, energy management and asset responsiveness. It can also mitigate workforce turnover using its mobile on-the-job learning capabilities, all without the need for custom programming.

2010-05-05T12:20:00.000-07:00

SIS-Tech Safety System Protects From Overpressure

SIS-Tech's Diamond-SIS high-integrity protective system (Hips) is used to provide overpressure protection where the opening of the pressure-relief valve poses unacceptable process safety risks. Diamond-SIS Hips is a low-cost standalone logic solver is certified for use in applications up to Safety Integrity Level (SIL) 3. API 521 and Code Case 2211 of ASME Section VIII, Division 1 and 2 allow the use of a high-integrity protective system, such as the Diamond-SIS Hips, in lieu of a pressure-relief device as long as the instrumented system meets or exceeds the protection provided by the pressure-relief device.

To achieve this performance, the Hips design and management must also follow IEC 61511 and the logic solver should be compliant with IEC 61508 SIL 3. The Diamond-SIS Hips complies with these requirements. Diamond-SIS is an SIL 3 logic solver with 2oo3 voting, which provides the end user with a fault-tolerant logic solver that it is physically and functionally independent from the process control and unit safety instrumented system. With the Diamond-SIS Hips, each vessel or pipeline is independently protected against overpressure so that no single Hips failure results in simultaneous overpressure of multiple vessels or pipelines.

By using an independent logic solver for each Hips, the potential for common cause failure impacting multiple process units is reduced. In a typical installation, the Diamond-SIS Hips takes inputs from multiple sensors that can detect abnormal process operating conditions. The logic solver processes the inputs and sends the necessary outputs to final elements such as block valves or pumps. The Diamond-SIS Hips is rated for -30C to +75C and suitable for installation in Class I Div II environments, allowing it to be installed in the field near the process equipment.

This reduces the implementation costs typically associated with systems using cabinet-mounted safety PLCs. The Diamond-SIS Hips is used in many overpressure protection system applications, such as wellhead piping protection, where electric submersible pumps (ESP) are installed for enhanced oil recovery. In these applications, the unintended block-in of the ESP initiates a scenario where the maximum discharge pressure from the pump exceeds the maximum allowable working pressure of the downstream piping, potentially rupturing the pipeline.

Traditional overpressure protection with a pressure-relief valve results in a discharge that cannot be effectively managed. Instead, the Diamond-SIS Hips is used to detect high pressure and to shutdown the ESP, preventing pipeline overpressure. Hips are now accepted for vessel protection with the latest release of API 521 and with the recent update to the ASME pressure vessel code. The Minerals Management Service has approved Hips as a new technology application for offshore installations in the Gulf of Mexico.

2010-05-05T12:17:00.000-07:00

Rockwell Presents Oil And Gas Control Systems

Rockwell Automation will be highlighting its digital field and integrated control, power and safety solutions and services for platform and subsea control at the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC). The Rockwell Automation OTC 2010 booth will outline the company's solutions and global support capabilities for the oil and gas industry. A process control centre featuring the Rockwell Automation Plantpax process automation system will be on display, featuring a critical control and safety system that enables the user to specify the level of reliability and availability needed for operational excellence.

The booth also will feature an IEC-compliant motor control centre that offers protection for personnel and equipment. According to Rockwell, digital field solutions help oil and gas companies obtain high performance and value from their assets, including asset performance management (APM) solutions. Rockwell Automation APM solutions utilise the company's Factorytalk Vantagepoint EMI (Enterprise Manufacturing Intelligence) software to provide role-based visualisation, analytics and reporting that can help improve production and asset surveillance.

In addition, Rockwell Automation will highlight its Software CEM system, a continuous emissions monitoring system (CEMS) and real-time environmental management technology. These are said to provide accuracy and reliability at a lower total cost and are designed to help ease compliance to state and federal environmental protection agency requirements. The company will also offer additional information and hands-on demonstrations of the technology and solutions described above.

2010-05-05T12:15:00.000-07:00

Step Offshore To Sell Derrick Control Equipment

Step Offshore, a subsidiary of Aker Solutions, has announced that it is to offer an extended range of drilling fluid management solutions for oil and gas projects. The company is now selling Derrick Equipment's premium solids control equipment and related products in Europe, which includes capital equipment, such as shale shakers, mud cleaners, centrifuges, degassers, flow dividers, as well as operational equipment such as shale shaker screens and spare parts.

Derrick's screen technology, also available for competitors' shale shakers, includes the Pyramid and Pyramid Plus design. These three-dimensional screens offer the features of traditional flat, multi-layered screens while adding to the usable screen area. The result is a screen that allows for an increase in fluid handling capacity. Pyramid screens allow rigs to screen finer earlier in the drilling process, reducing total drilling fluid and disposal costs.

2010-05-05T12:12:00.000-07:00

Air Gun Delivers 10kg Of Blowing Force

Exair's single air nozzle Super Blast Safety Air Gun, available from Good Hand, is suitable for long-distance, wide-area blow-off, drying and cooling applications. The air gun is claimed to deliver 10kg of blowing force, which is equivalent to the force of 30 ordinary air guns. The Super Blast Safety Air Gun incorporates a large Super Air Nozzle that has been engineered to maximise entrained airflow and force while reducing compressed air use and noise.

At full pressure of 5.5 bar, it has an air consumption of 13,000slpm. Seven other sizes with single or multiple Super Air Nozzle configurations are available that provide forces of 1.5kg to 6.8kg and air consumption ranging from 1,500slpm to 9,000slpm. The large Super Air Nozzle of the Super Blast Safety Air Gun has a zinc-aluminium alloy construction that is suitable for rugged industrial applications.

The air gun incorporates a soft-grip handle and spring-loaded manual valve that automatically shuts off if it is dropped. The airflow that exits the gun cannot be blocked and meets recognised safety standards. Applications include floor and machinery cleaning, chip removal, liquid blow-off, parts cleaning and cooling hot parts.

2010-04-27T15:10:00.000-07:00

McGill University Uses Simio 3D Modelling Software

The Desautels Faculty of Management at McGill University has joined Simio's academic programme, which offers the company's 3D modelling software to schools at no charge. Simio awarded a USD29,700 (GBP19,310) grant to the Desautels Faculty of Management. The NSERC Create Program, which will benefit from the grant, is set improve the collective capacity of the six partner universities in Canada for training doctoral students and post-doctoral fellows who could become significant contributors to healthcare research, practice and policy making.

McGill University is now one of more than 120 universities worldwide to join Simio's academic programme. The Simio Academic Edition software has no model size limits and includes discrete and continuous modelling, object library development and 3D animation. Trainees at the university will be able to model systems using intelligent objects and the software's direct connection to Google's 3D Warehouse. The intelligent objects are built by modellers and may be reused in multiple modelling projects.

These objects can be stored in libraries and shared. Simio's connection to Google's 3D Warehouse gives access to a free online library of thousands of graphic objects, providing students with the ability to solve real-world problems in visually rich environments.

2010-04-27T15:08:00.000-07:00

Datron MV-1500 Machines Awkward-Shaped Workpieces

The new MV-1500 CNC machining centre from Datron Technology is suitable for machining non-standard-shaped workpieces. With a vertical clamping surface, it enables the machining of components measuring up to 1m in height. This 'drop-down' area is at right angles to the horizontal table, which measures 1,500 x 500mm. This latest addition to the range of Datron large-format CNC machining centres is suitable for the milling of both standard- and awkward-shaped components - especially the latter - where robust clamping is available on both tables.

Exceptionally tall parts or housings can be clamped onto the vertical T-slotted clamping face, with other parts for machining at the back of the machine on the horizontal table. Alternatively, parts with an overhang can be positively clamped so that, for example, end faces can be machined. Built with the trademark granite table - offering high precision, accuracy and stability, particularly against vibration - the Datron MV-1500 can be equipped with a range of spindles capable of operating at speeds of up to 60,000rev/min.

The same Datron design principles have also been applied to the MV-1500 to ensure a small footprint (2.25 x 2.4m). Optional extras include a surface-mapping/position-finding optional probe (either Datron or Renishaw), Datron vacuum clamping plates and a 30-position tool changer. Indexers are also available to increase the machine's capability for up to five-axis operation with fast 3D CNC control.

A full tooling package is available from Datron, but the MV-1500 is also compatible with other tooling. The MV-1500, priced from GBP60,000, is said to be simple to install. Datron provides full commissioning and training. The company also offers a full service and applications support to assist the customer in all aspects of programming and machining; turnkey packages are available on request.

2010-04-27T15:06:00.000-07:00

Cedrat To Provide Training Sessions On Actuators

Cedrat Technologies has announced that places are still available for its training sessions, which are due to take place on 17 June, following Actuator 2010. Two parallel sessions - one about piezoelectric actuators and the other about linear magnetic actuators - will be held in the Congress Center Bremen. The courses are open to engineers and PhD students who want to know more about these actuator technologies.

2010-04-27T15:04:00.000-07:00

Ondrives Adds Precision Bevel Gears To Portfolio

Ondrives has added straight-cut precision bevel gears to its precision gear range. Ondrives' straight-cut bevel gears are made to Quality Grade 7f24 DIN 3985, with other Quality Grades available on request. Standard materials are 817M40T steel and 303 stainless steel, with 805M20 case-hardened steel also available. Ratios are 1:1 as standard, with 2:1 available.

Tapped holes, pin holes and keyways can be added as standard modifications for a nominal charge. Complete specials to suit customer drawings are also available. The technical department welcomes the chance to quote for these as one-off prototypes or volume orders. Scheduled deliveries can also be easily accommodated where required.

2010-04-27T15:00:00.000-07:00

WEG Customises Control Panel For Plasson's Factory

WEG has developed a control panel that monitors the ventilation circuits, temperature, humidity, lighting and feeder lines at Plasson's factory. Plasson manufactures equipment and sells services for aviculture. The system ensures better use of feed ration, optimises environmental requirements and delivers higher quality and productivity. WEG has an exclusive team for sales, engineering and assembly of control panels for the OEM machine-building segment, partnering with customers to provide complete solutions that improve quality and reliability and increase speed and throughput.

In these partnerships, WEG's team works closely with customers' engineering and development teams to analyse applications and suggest and specify improvements that make individual projects feasible, in both technical and commercial terms. After this first phase, a prototype is assembled and tested by the customer. When everything has been finally approved, WEG begins series supply. Plasson asked WEG to standardise the environment control panels and feeders that it manufactures and supplies. The objective was to improve the reliability of the systems, provide the ideal environmental requirements and increase productivity in breeding chickens and turkeys.

'The major benefits we are enjoying as a result of our partnership with WEG are the reliability of the products and the standardisation that we have been able to achieve by using them,' said Gilberto Franke Hobold, general director at Plasson. 'In addition, because WEG was able to provide a weekly delivery schedule for the control panels, this improved our logistics and helped us with stock reduction. 'WEG's flexibility was a great advantage in this partnership. 'At any stage of the project where we wanted something different, WEG was always listening to our requirements and careful to develop what we actually needed,' Hobold added.

2010-04-27T14:58:00.001-07:00

Namtec And NAMRC Plan Two-Day Nuclear Conference

Namtec (National Metals Technology Centre) and NAMRC (Nuclear Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre) are planning a two-day conference at the Oulton Hall Hotel in Leeds on 29-30 June. The Nuclear: Metals and Manufacturing Conference features a full itinerary of high-profile speakers from the nuclear industry and will focus on the current drive towards Generation III+ nuclear power stations in the UK.

The aim is to provide delegates with an insight into the huge opportunities for the UK's materials and manufacturing supply base, while giving companies the chance to network and engage with nuclear vendors and Tier 1 suppliers. Keynote speakers are from EDF Energy, the National Nuclear Laboratory, Areva, the University of Manchester, the University of Oxford and the University of Bristol; and Corus, Westinghouse, Sheffield Forgemasters, AMEC, Fusion Energy and NAMRC. The cost for the two-day conference is GBP595 plus VAT, which includes accommodation and conference dinner on 29 June. Anyone interested is advised to book early to avoid disappointment.

2010-04-27T14:55:00.000-07:00

Ecosure Sensor Detects Leaking Carbon-Monoxide Gas

City Technology's Ecosure electrochemical sensor detects the silent escape of invisible carbon-monoxide gas from faulty or badly adjusted heating devices. Ecosure is the sensor of choice for the majority of carbon-monoxide detector manufacturers because of its performance, stability, reliability and extended operational life. It is also used in multi-sensor fire detectors to improve their detection reliability and reduce their false alarm rates.

Ecosure is a two-wire electrochemical sensor with inbuilt filtering that protects it from poisons, interfering gases and dust, minimising the possibility of false alarms. Its stability means that instrument manufacturers do not have to provide complex compensation circuitry. The sensors are manufactured in an automated manufacturing facility and comprehensively tested at each intermediate stage during the production process. As a result, the standard deviation in the output of individual sensors is extremely small, again enabling instrument manufacturers to simplify their instrument designs, thereby reducing time to market and improving manufacturability.

In addition to its stability and false-alarm immunity, the sensor quickly responds to the presence of carbon monoxide, reaching T90 in less than 20 seconds. It is mechanically robust, can be installed in any orientation without affecting performance and operates from -10C to +50C with continuous relative humidity ranging from 15 to 90 per cent. More than 10 million households rely on Ecosure.

2010-04-12T12:42:00.000-07:00

SGS Seminars Describe Different NDT Certification

SGS recently organised two seminars on personnel certification in the field of non-destructive testing (NDT). Held in the City of Manila, Philippines on 16 March 2010; and in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam on 18 March 2010, the seminars were designed to introduce different certification systems. NDT is essential to many industries, including control of welding quality, industrial parts and safety assurance of pressure vessels and pipelines. However, the competence of those carrying out NDT is a vital pre-requisite.

Only qualified personnel can perform a satisfactory inspection, interpret the test results and make critical judgments. Correct certification presents objective evidence of the knowledge and skill level of the person conducting an inspection and therefore confirms whether or not he is qualified. Many certificates are misinterpreted, which leads to people inspecting welds and other products without being suitably qualified.

Seminar attendees were given the chance to take an in-depth look into the world of certification of personnel working in the NDT business. The participants were encouraged to take an active part in the discussions about the advantages and disadvantages of both in-house certification and centrally managed certification schemes such as the well known PCN-certification scheme. Topics included the specific information that should be included on a certificate and what it means to be qualified. The need for high quality, pre-examination training has been emphasised.

Statistics have proven that, when taking examinations directly without attending the pre-examination accredited training, the percentage pass rate is dramatically reduced and many candidates are likely to be unsuccessful. Finally, to end the seminar, individual questions were clarified. Attendees can from now on be more critical about the certificates they review and be better at specifying the required personnel. The seminar was given by Jason Scott, director of the SGS Training and Certification School in China.

2010-04-12T12:40:00.001-07:00

Parker Shows Nitrogen-Gas Generators At Total

The Domnick Hunter Industrial Division of Parker Hannifin will be showcasing its latest technology at Total Process and Packaging 2010, held on 25-27 May at NEC Birmingham. On show at the event will be a selection of the company's cost-effective industrial nitrogen-gas generators, which have been proven to increase productivity and profitability in the process and packaging sectors.

The company will be exhibiting its latest Midigas and Maxigas onsite nitrogen-gas generators, designed to provide alternatives to traditional nitrogen sources. These technologies are suitable for use in a range of applications in the process and packaging industry, including modified-atmosphere packaging (MAP), purging, blanketing and pressure transfer. Producing on-demand nitrogen gas from compressed air onsite, the high-performance Midigas and Maxigas ranges are suitable for small-to-medium and medium-to-large nitrogen requirements, respectively.

As a result, customers using the gas generators can make significant reductions in the cost of using nitrogen, with a fast payback on a generator of between 12 and 24 months, and ongoing savings of up to 90 per cent thereafter. In addition, the on-demand functionality of the Midigas and Maxigas generators allows users to overcome the environmental issues associated with road transport of bottled gas and the unpredictability of fluctuating gas prices, while operating from a small compressor facilitates low energy consumption. The systems are fully automatic, making them easy to set up and operate, with the production of nitrogen being determined by the demands of downstream processes.

This greater degree of control helps to limit waste and reduce overall energy consumption, while considerably extending the operating life of the unit, which is typically in excess of 10 years. Similarly, maintenance costs are low, with only routine maintenance required, while the modular design of the Midigas and Maxigas systems enables the installation to be extended as and when nitrogen requirements increase.

2010-04-12T12:37:00.000-07:00

Atlet Optimises Efficiency Of Flexpac Warehouse

Contract-packing specialist Flexpac has called upon Atlet to help optimise performance and efficiency in its new warehouse. The warehouse features a mixture of single- and double-deep racking served by an Atlet ATF ride-on extending fork-reach truck. It offers a combination of storage capacity, load selectivity and throughput to support Flexpac's business. Flexpac has a number of customers in the consumer goods and toiletries sectors, for which it packs promotional, gift and retail transit items needed to support marketing and advertising campaigns. Flexpac was based in north London for many years but in 2007 relocated to Iver, close to the motorway network, when it had outgrown its previous site.

The new warehouse was an empty shell and this allowed the business to devise a materials-handling operation matched to its specific requirement. For many of its larger customers, Flexpac works in batches using items supplied in multiple palletised loads. The aim is to hold stock for as short a time as possible and the main requirement, from a storage and handling perspective, is to ensure enough items can be held on site to maintain throughput and meet delivery schedules. Flexpac approached a number of potential lift-truck suppliers for suggestions on warehouse configuration.

Atlet proposed a combination of single and double-deep racking; this led to 756 pallet locations on four levels arranged along three aisles. An aisle along one side of the warehouse is completely double deep, a central aisle has double-deep racking down one side and single-deep down the other and the third aisle is single-deep only. Duplicate bulk loads are generally stored in the double-deep areas, while individual pallets and items that need to be accessed more often are kept in the single-deep sections. Andrew Holmes, managing director at Flexpac, said: 'We wanted to design the racking to utilise the maximum space.

'Atlet was the only supplier to suggest double deep. 'If you're dealing with lots of different products you wouldn't necessarily go for double deep, but many of our pallets are the same, so this combination works well,' he added. With double-deep, two rows of racking are built along the side of the aisle and pallets placed one behind the other. This helps maximise utilisation of available space and is especially useful when the pallets contain identical products and there are no issues with load selectivity or stock rotation. Going completely double-deep and keeping aisle width to the minimum would have allowed Flexpac to store even more pallets in the warehouse.

But retaining some single-deep racking and widening the aisle slightly provides better load flexibility and helps optimise throughput during peak periods. The racking is located at the rear of the building with a marshalling area in front and a mezzanine along one side of the warehouse. This provides space for the main activities of packing and preparation at ground and first-floor level. In this type of warehouse, pallets are handled using a special type of reach truck with extending forks that can access the rearmost rows of racking. Atlet suggested its compact ATF extending fork-reach truck. The choice of the stand-on version made sense in this situation because operators need to get on and off relatively frequently, which would be less convenient on a seated variant.

The truck is typically used sporadically to move pallets between storage and packing areas, so ease and speed of access are more important and help to promote productivity. Like any single-truck operation, one of the biggest fears is downtime. There is some seasonality in the business, with the busiest period coming in late summer, as customers prepare stock for delivery in time for their Christmas and New Year promotions. This means the truck can be used much more heavily between August and October. The truck's on-board diagnostic computer helps engineers to anticipate any issues before they impact on truck performance.

Atlet provides call-out service support and completes a six-monthly routine maintenance check. The wider aisles in the single-deep area of the warehouse allow the company's counterbalance truck, normally used in the marshalling area and to load and unload transport vehicles, to act as a second handling option during busy periods and as a backup for the reach truck. Even so, in the two years since the Atlet truck was delivered, there has not been a problem.

2010-04-12T12:35:00.000-07:00

Deburring Centre Runs Parts De-Rusting Service

Deburring Centre is offering to de-rust parts as a sub-contracting service. Thermal deburring is Deburring Centre's main operation and works by oxidising burrs. The by-product, in the case of steel parts, is an iron-oxide powder - rust - which lightly dusts the parts. If this is left on the parts (for some steels as little as two hours) then, in any moist atmosphere, it can start to etch into the surface and cause major quality issues.

To combat this, Deburring Centre has a 'pickling' plant that is used after thermally deburring steels. The pickling consists of sending the parts through a phosphoric-acid bath to remove the oxide/rust; they then pass through two water washes; and finally a light dewatering oil that gives an indoor shelf life of four months. Phosphoric acid is an industry standard in the de-rusting of parts.

2010-02-23T12:09:00.000-08:00

Phymetrix Expands Hygrometer Calibration Facility

Phymetrix has expanded its calibration facility in Medford, New York, offering full service and calibration of dew-point analysers with a 10-day turnaround time. The company has a dedicated laboratory conforming to the ANSI American National Standard for Calibration. It performs calibration of dew-point hygrometers with Certificate of Calibration traceable to NIST.

Phymetrix's environmentally controlled laboratory is continually monitored for fluctuations of humidity, temperature and dust to ensure constant accuracy, resulting in precise measurements for customers' instruments. The calibration laboratory is equipped with a NIST-traceable chilled mirror device, buck research model CR-1A with a range of -120C to +30C, and a proprietary mixing station with a flow control system.

2010-02-23T12:06:00.000-08:00

F-Series System Meets Machine Safety Standards

Mechan Controls has announced that the F-series electronic safety system has achieved the highest possible rating under EN ISO 13849-1, the international standard for machine safety. The F-series is a modular, multi-gate safety system that features a flexible control unit capable of monitoring up to 30 tamper-proof safety switches simultaneously.

In tests recently conducted by TUV Nord in Germany, the system achieved a Category Four rating, with Safety Integrity Level Three and Performance Level E. The F-Series main control module has dual safety outputs and monitoring for external circuits, while each connected safety switch has both LED and volt-free contact indication at the control unit.

For larger plants or where a complete production line is being monitored, the modular system can be expanded using Mechan's FX1 and FX2 extender units, which work alongside the FM1 master control module. The safety switches are robust, fully encapsulated and available in three sizes with the standard tamper-proof coding, while the CMA version gives the option of half a million unique codes.

The switches have a 10mm operating distance, which makes them easy to install and free from nuisance tripping, and they are well suited for use in harsh conditions and environments where frequent cleaning is essential. As a result, the F-series provides safe and reliable protection on machine guards of all kinds. It is used in industries such as food processing, dairies, pharmaceutical plants and the manufacture of concrete blocks and other construction materials.

2010-02-23T11:59:00.000-08:00

Amplicon Invests In Online Conferencing System

Amplicon has invested in a new Webex facility, an online conferencing system that will give customers direct access to company specialists and suppliers in the US and the Far East. The company's portfolio of industrial computing, data communications and measurement and control products and the projects in which they are applied can often be very complex.

By clicking on a link, Webex customers will be able see product demonstrations and bespoke presentations, as well as a dialogue on commercial and technical matters.

2010-02-23T11:57:00.000-08:00

Keynote Speakers To Discuss Use Of DS Simulation

Dassault Systemes (DS) has announced that there will be keynote addresses from Exxonmobil Upstream Research Company and Tetra Pak at this year's Simulia Customer Conference (SCC). Keynote speakers Bruce A Dale, senior consultant of Exxonmobil Upstream Research Company, and Mattias Olsson, manager of virtual engineering at Tetra Pak, will provide insights into how realistic simulation is being used by their respective companies to drive research and product innovation.

Dale's presentation will highlight technical achievements from Exxonmobil's history of using Simulia's Abaqus finite-element analysis to enable engineering advancements in the upstream oil-and-gas industry. Olsson will share Tetra Pak's experience in using realistic simulation solutions from DS's Simulia brand to develop product packaging for delivering liquid-food products to global consumers at a low price while extending shelf life and ensuring safety.

The 2010 SCC, which is scheduled to be held on 25-27 May 2010 in Rhode Island, US, will showcase presentations by engineers representing more than 70 international manufacturing and research organisations, including Cordis, Halliburton, Honda RandD, Kimberly-Clark, Medtronic, Michelin RandD, Nokia, PSA Peugeot, Rolls-Royce and Verney Yachts. Sessions will include topics on fracture and failure, nonlinear analysis, multiphysics, process automation, design optimisation and simulation lifecycle management.

2010-02-23T11:54:00.000-08:00

Compression Board Suits Mobile Video Surveillance

Multipix Imaging has launched the Euresys 4 video input capture and H.264 compression board, targeting mobile video-surveillance applications. The Picolo U4 board also features high-quality audio capabilities. Each video input simultaneously delivers a compressed and an uncompressed video stream, leading to a total of eight video streams delivered. The compressed video stream may be recorded or transmitted, while the uncompressed one is typically used for local display or video analytics.

Both streams are independently configurable. Thanks to a high resistance to extreme temperatures, shocks, vibrations and humidity, the Picolo U4 H.264 PCI-104 is suitable for embedded security systems for rail and road transportation, police vehicles equipment or any mobile or outdoor video-surveillance application. The ruggedised characteristics of the board are also targeted at the video-surveillance systems installed in extreme industrial environments.

The Picolo U4 H.264 PCI-104 is a PCI-104 board that, for system integration, implements eight general-purpose input/output lines, an onboard watchdog and a pass-through buffered video output with cascade capability. To operate the Picolo U4 H.264 PCI-104, a Directshow filters interfaces for Windows and a Virtual File System driver for Linux either in 32-bit or 64-bit is provided.

2010-02-23T11:51:00.000-08:00

Keithley To Broadcast Phase Change Memory Webinar

Keithley Instruments is to broadcast a free web-based seminar entitled 'Phase Change Memory: Fundamentals and Measurement Techniques' on 25 February 2010. This one-hour seminar will teach techniques for measuring and characterising Phase Change Memory devices. Phase Change Memory is a type of non-volatile computer memory also known as PRAM, PCM or PCRAM.

It uses the behaviour of chalcogenide glass, which can be switched between two states - crystalline and amorphous - with the application of heat. Recent versions can achieve two additional distinct states, effectively doubling its storage capacity. The webinar will provide basic information on the physics and operation of PRAM memory elements. Common characterisation and measurement techniques will be described and compared, including the R-Load method and a technique using Keithley's ultra-fast I-V unit.

The webinar is primarily recommended for test engineers and test engineering managers who are new to making PRAM measurements, although it will also be useful for more experienced users. The live broadcast is accompanied by an interactive question-and-answer session, which will give attendees the opportunity to ask the presenter for an additional insight on this topic. The event is free to the public, but participants must register in advance via the company's website.

2010-02-23T11:48:00.000-08:00

Cadac Explorer Features Advanced Document Creation

Cadac Organice has announced Advanced Document Creation for Cadac Organice Explorer 2010, a Sharepoint-based engineering-document management solution. In the new version of Cadac Organice Explorer, users are able to create sophisticated templates in Microsoft Word for letters, faxes and reports, etc. These templates can include fields that are automatically synchronised with Sharepoint metadata.

Advanced Document Creation also makes it possible to create predefined text building blocks and signatures that users can easily reuse to create their documents. It helps users to set up new documents quickly and easily and to automatically populate these documents with Sharepoint metadata. Advanced Document Creation is said to be beneficial to companies that want to standardise the layout of their documents and increase the efficiency in their document-creation process. Cadac Organice Explorer 2010 will be introduced on 8 March, 2010.

2010-02-23T11:44:00.000-08:00

Platinum Temperature Sensors Offer High Accuracy

A range of temperature sensors from Platinum Sensors offer high levels of measurement accuracy and stability at low cost, according to the company. They are suitable for all temperature-measurement and temperature-compensation applications, due to their near-linear output and operating temperature range of -70 to 500C.

Designated the MN range, the sensors are Platinum thin-film devices to the Pt 100, Pt 500 or Pt 1000 standards and are available to three tolerance classes: DIN A (approximately +/-0.06 per cent at 0C), DIN B (+/-0.12 per cent) and DIN 2xB (+/- 0.24 per cent). The sensors are fully RoHS compliant, measure 2.3 x 2.1mm and are supplied with 10mm-long nickel connection wires.

Their small size and robust construction makes them suitable for use in temperature-sensor assemblies in all industrial applications.

2010-02-23T11:43:00.001-08:00

Laider Consultancy Enables CE Marking For Bridge

With the aid of services provided by Laidler Associates, the refurbished Portumna road bridge in Galway has become the first bridge in the Ireland to carry CE marking. Laidler Associates also helped to ensure that the bridge met the requirements for EMC certification and that it satisfied the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulations.

Waterways Ireland awarded the order for design specification, contract preparation and project supervision to Royal Haskoning, who appointed L and M Keating to carry out the building and installation work. Royal Haskoning recommended that Laidler Associates should be used to provide the consultancy services needed to ensure that the bridge met all relevant legal requirements and, in particular, the requirements for CE marking. Jane Arbuckle, technical director, mechanical and electrical engineering, at Royal Haskoning, said: 'The company offered a one-day safety workshop and two presentation sessions at the start of the contract to ensure that all of those working on the project were fully briefed on health and safety issues.

After these preliminary sessions, Laidler Associates carried out detailed hazard assessments covering all aspects of the bridge design and construction. Consultants from the company also visited the site during the construction work and, when the work was complete, they carried out a detailed final inspection before certifying the structure.

2010-02-23T11:40:00.000-08:00

Elesa Introduces Light/Medium-Duty Castors

Elesa has announced the RE.F8 technopolymer monolithic range of castors, which are available from 100mm to 194mm total height. These unitary moulded wheels are suitable for general-purpose industrial applications - such as trolleys and equipment material transfer - for up to 750kg per wheel on smooth, tiled or similar surfaces with good wear resistance.

The RE.F8 series feature low rolling resistance with easy turning thanks to the dual Elesa standard ball race cage. An optional total brake mechanism on the turning version locks both the wheel and the chassis bracket from turning as required. The fully moulded wheel features an integral plain bearing on a spacer tube within a rugged zinc-plated or stainless-steel chassis. This castor is suitable for light-duty, low-cost, low-maintenance applications.

2010-02-23T11:37:00.000-08:00

P-80 Redilube Eases Tight-Fitting Assemblies

International Products has added P-80 Redilube to its line of temporary rubber assembly lubricants. P-80 Redilube provides temporary lubrication that can ease assembly of tight-fitting parts. It is designed for use on non-porous and coated rubber surfaces. It provides a high degree of lubrication but dries quickly, making it suitable for sub-assembly.

Uses include installation of hoses, bushings, seals, O-rings, grommets and grips. P-80 Redilube is biodegradable and does not contain alcohol, petroleum distillates or silicone. It is safe to use on most natural and synthetic rubbers, metals and plastics.

International Products manufactures and distributes environmentally friendly temporary rubber assembly lubricants and precision cleaners from its ISO 9001-certified facility in Burlington, New Jersey. Its on-site laboratory is equipped for analytical work and consultation on assembly and cleaning processes.

2010-02-23T11:35:00.000-08:00

Hazardex 2010 To Feature Compex Competency Scheme

EEMUA will publicise the Compex competency scheme at Hazardex 2010, which will take place 24-25 February at the Majestic Hotel in Harrogate. EEMUA and JTL, the certification body, developed Compex in collaboration with employers, unions, government and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). EEMUA believes Compex is the industry benchmark for determining core competency for working in hazardous areas.

At Hazardex, EEMUA will also discuss its hazardous-area publications and activities. Compex courses are closely associated with EEMUA Publication 186: 'A Practitioner's Handbook - Electrical Installation and Maintenance in Potentially Explosive Atmospheres'. Compex combines classroom training with an examination, plus practical hands-on training with practical competency validation assessment.

It does this in an environment that utilises equipment found in the workplace. More than 24,000 candidates have been certified via the Compex scheme. There are 13 licensed Compex Competency Validation centres in the UK.

2010-02-23T11:33:00.000-08:00

Adept Offers Jai's 040 Progressive Scan Cameras

Two new Mini Camera Link (MCL) 0.4-megapixel progressive scan cameras from Jai are now available from Adept Electronic Solutions. The CM-040MCL (monochrome) and CB-040MCL (Bayer colour) cameras are targeted at clients requiring small, high-quality devices with advanced functionality at a cost-effective price. Jai has designed these MCL models for applications that require higher-bandwidth, real-time signalling and a lower latency than is possible using GigE interfaces.

At 776 x 582 pixels, the 040 models provide slightly greater resolution than basic VGA versions while maintaining a high frame rate of 60fps. The cameras utilise the Sony ICX415 charge-coupled device and, while at full resolution output is at 61fps, higher frame rates can be achieved by using the partial-scan or vertical-binning modes.

The CM-040MCL and the CB-040MCL feature auto-iris lens video output to support the dynamic lighting conditions usually found in outdoor applications such as intelligent traffic systems and surveillance. Both models are available with an optional factory-installed right-angle adapter, which enables the camera to 'look' at a 90 angle. Both are designed for a range of inspection tasks where physical access is limited.

The cameras provide practical, versatile solutions in a range of deployments, including in the automotive industry, such as for inspection, high-precision gauging and process monitoring; pharmaceuticals, such as for the inspection of blister packages and for fill level control; in the beverage industry, such as for the control of the fill levels of defective bottles; in the food industry, such as for sorting; and for electronics inspection.

2010-02-23T11:31:00.000-08:00

Servo2go Adds Tachometer Generator To Range

Servo2go has added a high-performance DC Tachometer Generator to its range of analogue feedback devices and sensors.

Manufactured by Servo-Tek, the CS-7514F-51C tachometer features: low-ripple tach generator 1.5 per cent peak to peak (with 72HKz filter); Gettys motor compatibility 3V/1,000RPM standard - other voltages available; 0.250 diameter stainless-steel shaft; two shaft extensions 0.650in (CS-7561F-51C) and 0.875in (CS-7514F-51C); standard servo and face mount with 0.5in pilot; one-piece anodised housing; lead wires and rear cover included; high-quality ball bearings; varnish-impregnated armature for high-speed reversing applications; linearity 0.1 per cent; and silver commutator.

2010-02-17T11:19:00.000-08:00

Workshop Reviews Photonic Sources And Detectors

The Scottish Optoelectronics Association, Photonics and Plastic Electronics (PPE) KTN and Optocem have announced that they will host a Photonic Sources and Detectors workshop. The event will be of interest to companies and researchers in the field and everyone will be given an opportunity to contribute. Speakers at the event will summarise recent advances in the field.

The event will build on the UV, IR and THz Solid State Sources and Detectors workshop held in January 2009. Output from the 2009 event included a document created by delegates that details key applications, features, technology drivers and barriers for UV, IR and THz sources and detectors. This material will be reviewed and discussed.

The Photonic Sources and Detectors workshop will take place on 3 March 2010 in the Still Room, IET Teacher Building, 14 St Enoch Square, Glasgow.