Recently I had a disturbing conversation with a colleague here at the office. During the conversation, it became clear to me that my co-worker -- a really intelligent guy whom I respect a lot -- had no idea how even the most simple electric motor works.

Mounted ball bearings are everywhere in industrial applications. They serve critical roles in keeping a manufacturing operation running smoothly and in ensuring that equipment functions properly and reliably. So why might it be advisable to spend significantly more for a dimensionally comparable bearing from one supplier versus another?

A brief overview of the induction motor, including the basics of construction, performance and variable speed drives.

For the most accurate measurements, miniature and instrument ball bearing dimensions should be measured with a calibrated air gauge. A good second option is a calibrated optical comparator. On occasion, it may be necessary to use a calibrated, hand-held micrometer to double-check a measurement or for simple verification while working in the field.

When designing spur teeth, is there a formula/guideline/design guide for determining the amount of crowning?

Complete contact information for 800 leading suppliers of mechanical power transmission components and related companies and organizations.

This special advertising section features Very Important Products and Services as part of our 2013 Buyers Guide.

For design engineers and purchasing agents alike, bearings can sometimes be like family. Oh, you know - can't live with 'em, can’t live without 'em.

It's a fact that drive systems wouldn't function properly or efficiently without couplings. They quietly go about their business of transferring motion from one drive element to the next. In the PT market today, couplings have the unique challenge of satisfying a variety of customer needs including tighter tolerances, higher speeds and a more versatile selection process.

A core part of what we do here is making sure that our readers – the people who design, buy and use mechanical power transmission products – know where to find the suppliers of technology they need.