The industrial arts of mechanical engineering are all around us and seen in many forms and technologies. Of greatest interest is how these wonders are designed, constructed and used. From the smallest home appliance to the behemoths used for outsize building and excavation projects.

Motion control systems often combine high power drive signals in close proximity (or even within the same cable) with lower level signals, like encoders. You will often see ferrite beads added around cables; their effectiveness in minimizing noise is greatly affected by how they are deployed. This involves which signals are grouped, what are the drive characteristics, and how shielding and grounding are handled in the system.

Nordlaks is a Norwegian fully integrated company that produces, processes and sells Atlantic salmon and rainbow trout worldwide.

The following article examines some of the most recent product and industry news related to belts and chains, including news from Continental, Gates, Igus and Tsubaki.

Lubrication plays a vital role in the performance and life of rolling element bearings, yet its significance is often underestimated. The most important task of the lubricant is to separate parts moving relative to one another (balls or rollers and raceways) in order to minimize friction and prevent wear. A lubricant that is designed for specific operating conditions will provide a load bearing wear protective film.

Components like motors, bearings and drives are subject to harsh environments on Earth, but they must be at the top of their game to enjoy space travel. Recent applications from Maxon Motors (Return to Mars) and the University of Michigan (Robotic Legs) illustrate the incredible requirements it takes to handle applications in space and how these components can be utilized here on Earth.

Three-dimensional finite element analysis (FEA) simulation and research from published information is used to compare the features of various coil configurations.

These versatile, low-cost and high-torque motors may be used open loop or as full servos - and several levels in between. The motor stator laminate designs divide these motors into those optimized for full stepping, and those optimized for micro stepping and servo operation. These differences can be easily measured with basic meters and oscilloscopes. Motor to motor variations can also be easily measured, and motor inductance at nominal speed and current can also be determined.

Condition-based maintenance requires detailed state knowledge, often acquired by means of sensors.

Valves help control temperature, pressure and viscosity for alcohol fermentation.