[advertisement]

Efficiency

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2025-02-18

GWJ Introduces 2025 Seminar Schedule

GWJ Technology is starting a new seminar schedule in 2025. This year, GWJ is once again offering a wide range of different seminars that can be booked as online seminars or, if desired, as traditional face-to-face events. The online seminars are designed to be interactive and provide a comprehensive insight into the respective topic. Practical exercises deepen the content. Online seminars take place over two or three days and last two hours each. 

TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2024-12-12

Virtual End-of-Line Test

Tooth contact analysis is an integral part of the gear design process. With the help of these simulation tools, it is possible to calculate the excitation caused by a tooth contact (Ref. 1). Usually, the load-free transmission error or the total transmission error under load is used for this purpose. However, the calculation with the tooth contact analysis ZAKO3D allows only a quasi-static consideration of the excitation. To better evaluate the behavior in the overall system, it is therefore necessary to perform a dynamics simulation. However, the main disadvantage of such dynamics simulations is the much longer computing time compared to quasi-static tooth contact analyses due to the high computational effort.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-10-23

Siemens Digital Announces Solid Edge 2025 and Solid Edge X

Siemens Digital Industries Software has announced the 2025 release of Solid Edge software, bringing new capabilities to its product development software. The latest release also introduces Solid Edge X software, delivering a cloud-enabled secure Software as a Service (SaaS) environment, enhanced with new AI-enabled tools to help users work smarter.

TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2024-10-02

Ball Bearing Efficiency

I would like to briefly discuss some thoughts on ball bearing efficiency specifically in terms of applied load and resulting stress. I don’t want to trivialize this subject; there are textbooks written on the subjects of electrohydrodynamic lubrication (EHL), octahedral subsurface shear stress and friction losses due to elastic hysteresis. This is a just a high-level discussion on the importance of individual bearing stress on efficiency. 

TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2024-08-05

Holistic Assessment of Drive Systems with Gears, Shafts and Bearings Using Measured Torque-Speed Data

Verification of a drive system should include all main elements of the system, which are gears, bearings, shafts, and depending on the application other parts such as screws, couplings, and connections. Gears are clearly the most complicated parts for verification, but in many cases, a gearbox failure has its origin in a shaft or bearing failure. The subject of this paper is to explain how verification of a drive system based on measured or simulated torque-speed-time data can be handled. 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-07-12

Siemens Digital Announces NX Software Updates

Siemens Digital Industries Software has announced the latest updates to its NX software from the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio bringing new and enhanced capabilities to Siemens’ flagship product engineering software that aim to help designers and manufacturers across all industries deliver better, optimized products to market faster.

| 2024-04-16

Understanding Cycloidal Gearboxes - Single-stage vs Multi-stage

It's no secret that cycloidal gearboxes are important in mechanical engineering, especially when it comes to precision motion control and efficient power transmission. The gear systems differ from harmonic wave/strain wave gearboxes by using a cycloidal disk and needle bearings to transmit torque with minimum backlash, achieve high reduction ratios, and support substantial loads. This Sumitomo Drive Technologies blog will talk about single-stage and multi-stage cycloidal gearboxes.

[advertisement]
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2024-03-26

KISSsoft New Release Available in April

The new KISSsoft release 2024 is coming soon! This April will bring you the new system module KISSdesign, accelerating the calculation of complex drive trains and replacing the previous KISSsys software.

REVOLUTIONS | 2024-03-01

Mechatronic Methodology

IIjin Electric's collaboration with Siemens began with the company's efforts to effectively integrate electrical design with mechanical design. “This collaboration went beyond simply changing tools. It represented a major advancement in the company's design approach and methodology.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-02-13

FVA-Workbench Version 9 Redefines Gearbox Design

With the release of version 9, the FVA-Workbench once again sets new standards in gearbox design, enabling the seamless integration of the latest research results into industrial practice. As a groundbreaking interface between collective research and application, the FVA-Workbench accelerates development and innovation in drive technology. This new release is more powerful than ever, with innovative features for flexible load spectra and improvements in FEM components and shaft-hub connections.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-01-12

Portescap Motor Sets Standard for Downsizing Devices

Portescap introduces the 08ECP20 brushless DC slotless motor, a mini actuation solution ideal for engineers looking to downsize devices and applications without compromising on performance or reliability. The 08ECP20 is the smallest frame size to join Portescap’s Ultra EC portfolio.

FEATURE ARTICLES | 2023-12-01

FVA-Workbench Drives Progress in Marine Transmissions at Reintjes

Developing a new gearbox series is costly and time-consuming. This is especially true in marine propulsion, as classification society certifications must be achieved in addition to the required verifications. For this reason, Reintjes offers the same drives for various types of ships. In gearbox development, this means that each application requires different loads and usage profiles, with different service lives and maintenance intervals. Thus, each drive must be designed and calculated with advance consideration of every possible profile.

REVOLUTIONS | 2023-11-01

Solid Edge 2024 Focuses on Performance and User Experience

Solid Edge is a portfolio of affordable, easy-to-use software tools that address all aspects of the product development process. Solid Edge combines the speed and simplicity of direct modeling with the flexibility and control of parametric design – made possible with synchronous technology. The following Q&A discusses Solid Edge 2024 with Dan Staples, vice president, mainstream engineering, Siemens Digital Industries Software.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-10-30

Siemens Digital Provides Software Solutions for Plastic Fischer

Siemens Digital Industries Software has announced that Plastic Fischer, a social enterprise that works to reduce plastic waste in rivers, so it does not pollute our oceans, has adopted solutions from the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio of industry software to help scale its operations and bring the benefits of digital transformation to its product development and lifecycle management. 

[advertisement]
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-10-25

GWJ Technology Celebrates 20 Years of eAssistant Software

A good 20 years have passed since the web-based calculation software eAssistant saw the light of day in the digital world. The software is probably the oldest commercial online solution for the design, recalculation and optimization of machine elements such as shafts, bearings, shaft-hub connections, gears, bolted joints, springs, etc. The calculations are based on internationally accepted standards and guidelines as well as technical literature.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-10-03

KISSsoft Offers Plastics for the Calculation for Cylindrical and Crossed Axis Helical Gears

In KISSsoft, 97 (yes, ninety-seven!) plastics are available for calculation of cylindrical and crossed axis helical gears. The materials range from unreinforced POMs and PAs to high performance reinforced and internally lubricated materials. 

FEATURE ARTICLES | 2023-09-28

Next-Generation Lubricants for Marine Applications

From manufacturing to maritime, the quest for sustainable solutions has given rise to the development of environmentally friendly lubricants. Among these, Environmentally Considerate Lubricants (ECL) and Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants (EALs) have gained prominence for their positive impact on both equipment performance and the planet. Let’s delve into the differences and advantages of these lubricant classifications.

TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2023-09-28

Extending Inverter-Motor Systems Service Life

More energy efficiency, higher performance and better controllability are the main reasons why more electric drive systems are being operated with frequency converters. However, these devices can cause high-frequency, asymmetrical interference currents, which, as a current passage through the output and fan-side bearings, can cause damage and premature failure.

Current-compensated CoolBlue toroidal cores made of Magnetec’s nanocrystalline material Nanoperm have proven to be effective protection against such conducted interference and its consequences. In addition, the Nanoperm Line Absorbers NaLA can also be used to significantly suppress symmetrical interference currents.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-08-17

Tianneng Battery Selects Siemens Digital Software Portfolio

Siemens Digital Industries Software recently announced that Tianneng Battery Group Co., Ltd. has selected the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio of industry software to help it drive innovation and enable digital manufacturing in new battery production.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-08-15

Eaton Changes Vehicle Group and eMobility Businesses to the Mobility Group

Intelligent power management company Eaton has announced a new name for its Vehicle Group and eMobility businesses. Eaton’s Mobility Group represents the company’s focus on providing solutions across the propulsion spectrum and meeting the evolving needs of its customers from internal combustion to electrified or a combination of both.

REVOLUTIONS | 2023-07-10

Pumped Up Efficiency and Reliability

When older equipment starts to affect the output from the power plant – operators need to act fast, to avoid production risks escalating. This is especially true for legacy pumps. However, sourcing new units to fit the surrounding infrastructure and application requirements of the plant can be challenging. When a major thermal power plant in Rajasthan, India, faced multiple issues with an aging boiler infeed pump, the energy player overcame supply and technical challenges through their partnership with Sulzer. Sulzer provided a custom solution under its OEM-X line service, that cushioned the impact to production, while offering the assurance of reliable associated support, spanning maintenance and spares for decades to come.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-04-28

Siemens and IBM Collaborate on Software Product Development

Siemens Digital Industries Software and IBM recently announced they are expanding their long-term partnership by collaborating to develop a combined software solution integrating their respective offerings for systems engineering, service lifecycle management and asset management.
  

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-04-27

KISSsoft Offers FKM Shaft Strength Calculation

In the KISSsoft shaft calculation, the proof of fatigue strength can be performed by generating an equivalent stress verification according to the FKM Guideline.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-04-06

KISSsoft Expands Fine Sizing Capabilities with Release 2023

In an urgent assignment, a gear has to be designed, with the engineer already knowing the required reduction ratio, torque and speed. On the manufacturing side, the preferred materials, possible qualities and the reference profiles are specified. This initial situation represents an everyday task.

FEATURE ARTICLES | 2023-04-06

KISSsoft Supports Student Racing Team in Taiwan

NYCU (National Yang Ming Chia Tung University) Vulpes Racing—founded in 2008—is a Formula Student Team that combines mechanical engineering, industrial design, public relations, video production and marketing expertise. 

TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2023-04-06

The Variation of Servomotor Efficiency in Different Applications

Unlike HVAC applications, servomotors are not normally operated at the same speed or torque for extended periods, thus the overall efficiency of a servomotor is not easily given a single numeric value. The efficiency varies greatly with the application, and thus different applications favor different types of servomotors.

TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2023-04-06

Ball Bearing Inner Ring Fits and Creep (Part 2)

Welcome back to Part 2 of our inner ring and creep discussion. We left off with our creep calculation resulting in a 10.5 µm minimum inner ring fit to avoid creep. For the sake of making clean dimensions, let’s call it 10 µm on the lower end and the upper end is simply whatever your manufacturer can hold.

TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2023-04-06

On the Potential of High-Ratio Planetary Gearboxes for Next-Generation Robotics

The earliest example of a gear train dates to at least 2,000 B.C. when Chinese engineers built a chariot that used a complex planetary mechanism made of wooden gears to let a dragon head continuously point south when driven around (Ref. 1). In Greece, a surprisingly advanced Antikythera gearbox mechanism, incorporating at least 37 precisely crafted bronze gears, was built years later, between 205–60 B.C. (Ref. 2).

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-03-24

KISSsoft Release 2023 Available in April

The new KISSsoft release 2023 comes with numerous novelties. Among others, Gear Mesh Frequencies (GMF) can now be calculated for cylindrical and bevel gears. GMF results are visualized in two different diagrams, i.e. GMF versus rotational frequency of the reference gear, and GMF versus amplitude.

TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2023-03-22

A Model for Considering Wheel Body Deformation in Tooth Contact Load Distribution

This study presents a simulation method for considering complex wheel bodies in an analytical tooth contact model. The wheel body is considered using reduced FE stiffness. Reduction points are defined over the width and linked with the analytical gear.

For cylindrical wheel bodies, comparative calculations show fewer deviations from the expected results with the new method. This is due to the additional degrees of freedom in the FEM model. In the calculation with cylindrical wheel bodies, bending due to axial force in tooth contact could also be verified in addition to the deformation in tooth contact and the influence of the shaft-bearing system.

TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2023-03-21

Ball Bearing Inner Ring Fits and Creep

I think I spend more time talking about ball bearings today than at any other time in my career. Ball bearings have always had a large place in automotive, but not typically in high demand positions—other than a few niche areas. High demand positions, such as axles and planetaries, were typically reserved for tapers, needles and cylindricals. The landscape is changing quickly.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-02-17

Siemens Expands Simulation for Electrification, Aerospace, Additive Manufacturing and Industrial Machinery

Siemens Digital Industries Software announced that the latest release of Simcenter software for mechanical simulation helps streamline electrification engineering projects, assists new aircraft meet margins of safety, simplifies durability testing across many industries and much more.

TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2023-02-08

Unconventional Gear Profiles in Planetary Gearboxes

Today, gearboxes are inevitable in numerous applications requiring high power density including wind turbines, electric vehicles, cranes, robotics, etc. A combination of high-ratio gearboxes with high-speed, low-torque motors is often used to achieve high power density. Planetary gear trains (PGTs) help achieve a high gear ratio in a compact arrangement. Several configurations of planetary gears are widely studied in this article where the gear profiles used in these studies are primarily involute.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-12-27

AGMA FTM Papers Deadline is Approaching

Those who wish to make submissions for the 2023 AGMA Fall Technical Meeting (FTM) have until January 13, 2023. Late submissions will not be accepted.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-12-01

Low Voltage AC Motor Market Grew by 21.2% in 2022

With over 200 years of combined experience, Interact Analysis is the market intelligence authority for global supply chain automation. Our research covers the entire automation value chain – from the technology used to automate factory production, through inventory storage and distribution channels, to the transportation of the finished goods. The world’s leading companies trust us to surface robust insights and opportunities for technology-driven growth.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-11-14

AFT Welcomes Three New Team Members

Applied Flow Technology (AFT) has expanded their team with the hire of two new engineers and one software developer to join their pipe flow modeling team. 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-10-25

Mitsubishi Gas Introduces RP System

As shippers and logistics handlers continue to struggle with supply chain delays, Mitsubishi Gas Chemical America recently introduced the RP System to the North American market to protect critical components from moisture and oxygen damage that can occur during shipping and long-term storage. Manufactured in Japan, this unique packaging solution is designed to safeguard electronics, automotive parts, and industrial components from rust and oxidation.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-10-24

Cortec Becomes BioPreferred Program Champion

Cortec Corporation is proud to be named a BioPreferred Program Champion. Cortec recently received this badge of honor in recognition of its involvement and faith in the USDA BioPreferred Program, which celebrates its 20th anniversary this year.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-10-10

GWJ Technology Extends Involute Gear Output Options

GWJ Technology GmbH has extended the output option of tooth forms of involute gears. GWJ has extended the output of tooth forms in 2D DXF format in its calculation modules single cylindrical gears, cylindrical gear pairs, planetary gear trains, three- and four-gear train systems, gear racks and involute splines as part of the new versions of its calculation solutions eAssistant and TBK.

REVOLUTIONS | 2022-09-26

Software Bits 2022

What's the latest in software design and simulation in the power transmission market? Here's a recap of some of the latest software solutions for bearings, gears, drivetrains and e-mobility applications.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-08-31

Cortec Introduces VCI Film and Bag Technology

Cortec Corporation is pleased to announce the development of its latest VCI film and bag technology: CorShield VpCI-220E. The new formula not only offers improved corrosion protection but also includes 30 percent post-consumer recycled content.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-08-26

NORD Releases Latest Industrial Gear Units

NORD DRIVESYSTEMS has announced the latest addition to their industrial gear unit family, MAXXDRIVE XD. These new, parallel shaft industrial gear units have extended center distances engineered specifically for reliable operation of cranes and hoists.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-08-18

Timken Announces New Executive Appointments

The Timken Company recently announced new appointments for company executives Christopher Coughlin, Andreas Roellgen, and Natasha Pollock.

| 2022-08-09

Ball Bearing Limiting Speeds

Electrification has really brought ball bearings back into focus as the primary bearing in our drive systems. Some boxes have tapers on the slower shafts for stiffness and others are using a ball/cylindrical combo for efficiency. Regardless, we all face the same challenge on the primary shaft in dealing with the potential of 18,000–20,000+ rpm speeds coming out of the motor. Plenty of applications run 20,000 rpm; what makes the automotive motor unique is, in addition to speed, we are driving huge torques, frequent torque reversals and a huge range of temperatures both internally and geographically. Of course, this all needs to be suited for high-volume manufacturing as well. Adding full ceramic balls, a PEEK cage and a high precision classification is a really easy way to run greater than 20,000 rpm all day but is an expensive option. One bearing alone could hurt the cost competitiveness of your gearbox. In the case where a single bearing can change the landscape of your project, it is worth taking a little time to understand exactly what the drivers of our speed limitations are.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-08-04

Global Shop Solutions Celebrates Michelle Brown’s Anniversary

Workforce stability, consistency, and reliability are the hallmarks of an excellent ERP software provider. Global Shop Solutions, a leading provider of ERP software for manufacturers in nearly 30 industries, is proud to celebrate 10 years of dedicated service from Michelle Brown, Project Manager for the company’s U.K. office.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-08-04

PBC Linear Expands Miniature Metric Ball Screw Assemblies

PBC Linear has expanded its comprehensive portfolio to include Miniature Metric Ball Screw Assemblies. Building on their lead screw technology, this combination of precision-rolled screw and compact nut is driving exceptional performance from an economical package. Manufacturers of sophisticated laboratory equipment, medical devices, semiconductors, and other automation applications will find these high-precision ball screws a valued solution to their small-scale linear motion needs. 

FEATURE ARTICLES | 2022-08-03

Helpline Operator

How do gearbox and gear drive providers navigate the interesting challenges found in steel, cement, paper, and construction applications? Apparently, one application at a time. Thanks to condition monitoring technology, IoT solutions and the flexibility of engineering teams today, plant downtime is not as problematic as it has been in the past. The secret to success in heavy industrial markets comes down to staying ahead of component failures.  

| 2022-08-03

Always Fit to Print

Print is not dead. While reading magazines cover-to-cover is a lost art—thanks to work responsibilities, 24-hour sports/entertainment coverage, and the universal time suck known as Instagram—someone, somewhere still prefers the printed word to the shiny, unfriendly artificial light of tablets and smartphones.  This publication (hopefully) provides information engineers can discuss, debate, or collaborate on for future manufacturing endeavors. There would be no words, no photographs, no advertising without the paper used to print this very magazine.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-08-02

Motion Announces Senior Vice President Appointment

Motion Industries, Inc. is pleased to announce that Lisa Solomon has been promoted to senior vice president – corporate accounts. 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-08-01

Miki Pulley Provides Brakes for Robotic Applications

Robotic applications in manufacturing need precise movement and positioning in manufacturing operations from teach pendant programming through full, automated production with exact sequential motion and timed positioning. Miki Pulley BXR Brakes apply holding torque after the motor joint stops and provides dynamic braking in the event of an emergency such as a power interruption.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-07-21

Milton CAT Tonawanda Hosts Successful Open House

To celebrate the opening of the Tonawanda facility, Milton CAT recently hosted an open house on June 17-18. Event activities included meeting the team, tours, machine and technology demonstrations, capability information stations, red tag specials, a Global Operator Challenge, and refreshments.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-07-11

MESYS Software Version 06/2022 is Available

A new version of the MESYS shaft and rolling bearing analysis software including new functionality is available. The bearing analysis software allows the calculation of the load distribution within the bearing and bearing life according to ISO/TS 16281 and it is integrated in a shaft system calculation with additional possibilities like modal analysis, strength calculation for shafts and interfaces to gear calculations. Currently the software is used by customers in 30 countries on four continents.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-07-08

SMT Announces North America User Forum

2022 marks the 20th Anniversary of SMT’s focus on providing the tools and knowledge to drive engineering innovation in gearbox system analysis. With this historic company anniversary, the company has announced the return of the North America User Forum.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-06-28

Siemens Digital Industries Software Releases Latest Version of NX

Siemens Digital Industries Software recently announced that the latest release of Siemens’ NX software brings greater electronic co-design, collaboration, and intelligence capture and reuse capability. These empower engineering executives across every industry to find productivity improvements and greater efficiencies in their engineering departments.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-06-17

Milton CAT Opens New York Location

Milton CAT, the Northeast’s Caterpillar (CAT) equipment dealer, has opened its 13th location, a 40,000 sq. ft. purpose-built, Tonawanda, NY, facility. Every feature of the facility is in place to improve safety and efficiency so Milton CAT can support western New York equipment owners with machine sales, machine service, CAT parts, CAT work tools, hydraulic hose repair, and Trimble technology from SITECH Northeast.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-06-16

Sulzer Breaks Ground on Electromechanical Service Center in Texas

Sulzer has begun the expansion of its Orange, Texas Service Center, a project which will enhance its 24/7 electromechanical service capabilities and provide expanded capacity. 

REVOLUTIONS | 2022-06-14

Helping Hands

Automate 2022 in Detroit offered the latest and greatest in automation, robotics, and motion control technology. The perception that automation will threaten the livelihood of shop floor personnel is slowly giving way to the idea that these tools and resources will transform shop floors and keep companies up and running. 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-05-25

NSK Develops New Ball Screw Technology

NSK Ltd. has developed a new technology that significantly extends ball screw life in high-load drive applications. Products with this technology are expected to be adopted by industrial machinery makers shifting to electric designs. Through this and other technologies, NSK continues to contribute to electrification and productivity increases industrial machinery.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-05-23

Siemens Digital Offers Simcenter Update to Improve Accuracy, Flexibility and Connectivity

Siemens Digital has added features and updates for Simcenter SPEED, Simcenter Motorsolve and Simcenter MAGNET 2022.1 to improve accuracy, flexibility and connectivity. This 2022.1 update makes Simcenter SPEED and Simcenter Motorsolve more accurate and better integrated to Simcenter STAR-CCM+.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-05-13

SEGULA Technologies and Senseye Partner on IIoT Solutions

SEGULA Technologies and British scale up Senseye, specialized in predictive maintenance based on artificial intelligence, have announced the signing of a partnership.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-05-12

SMT Offers Training Workshop on Improving MASTA Model Fidelity

SMT's May workshops aim to give attendees the tips and tricks needed to further improve the fidelity of the MASTA model. In this workshop, SMT engineers will go through some of the tools available including:

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-05-12

Black Bruin Offers Hydraulic Technologies at IFAT 2022

The S-series hydraulic motors from Black Bruin are designed for demanding recycling applications with direction changes and shock loads, which can be hard on shredders and their rotors. The power of the S-series helps handle varied and inconsistent waste material effortlessly and clears jams with ease

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-04-28

SMT Webinar Examines Software Tips and Tricks

SMT's latest webinar "MASTA Support - Tips, Tricks and FAQ" will take place May 4, 2022. The SMT customer support team receive queries covering all areas of MASTA, with industry 'hot topics' inevitably arising. In this webinar, SMT engineers focus on answering some of the queries that frequently make it into their support inbox. 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-04-21

KUKA Highlights End-to-End Automation Solutions at Automate 2022

At Automate 2022, attendees will have the opportunity to experience how complete, end-to-end automation solutions from KUKA Robotics can help them exceed their production goals.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-04-20

Gates Launches Belt Drive Software Platform

Gates has announced the launch of Gates Design Power, a new software platform offering multiple digital design tools to support the engineering and specification of belt-drive systems across a broad array of applications, making the process easier and more robust than ever before.  

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-04-18

Hexagon Releases E-Mobility Report

Hexagon’s Manufacturing Intelligence has released a comprehensive report entitled "Recharging the Automotive Market." The body of work was produced by Hexagon and draws from the original research conducted with Wards Intelligence and Informa Tech Automotive Group (ITAG).

FEATURE ARTICLES | 2022-04-12

Breaking the 4th Industrial Wall

Manufacturing is facing constant challenges stemming from labor shortages and disrupted supply chains to productivity declines and the high replacement and maintenance costs of legacy equipment. Trends today include equipment upgrades, e-commerce, a push for more robotics and automation and faster software and IIoT solutions.

TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2020-12-01

Efficiency and Heat Balance Calculation of Worm Gears

If torque conversion with high gear ratio, compact installation space and 90-degree axis-crossing angle is needed, often worm gears are used. Due to their high power density and sliding speeds within the tooth contact, frictional heat and thermal stresses are higher compared to helical, bevel and hypoid gears, and thus the thermal load capacity of worm gears is lower.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2020-02-01

Computing Gear Sliding Losses

As concerns surrounding the environmental impact of fossil fuels continue to grow, so does the need to produce vehicles with higher overall efficiency. The importance of enhanced vehicles has spurred drivetrain component manufacturers to study every aspect of efficiency loss in their products. The gearbox is a key contributor to the overall drivetrain efficiency.
| 2019-05-02

Schaeffler Optimizes Lubrication Systems with Mechatronics

The following is an update on Schaeffler's DuraSense relubrication system for linear recirculating roller bearing, ball bearing, and guideway assem...
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2018-10-01

Smashing the Efficiency Barrier

A Practical Comparison of Planetary and Orbitless Gear-Heads.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2018-06-01

Thrust Cone Bearings Provide Increased Efficiency for Helical Gear Units at Moderate Speed Levels

Thrust cone bearings are an elegant option to handle the axial forces generated by the torque transmission in helical-toothed gear stages. They have proven as an efficient and reliable bearing concept for integrally geared compressors but are nearly unknown in other fields of gearbox engineering. The presented investigations consider three aspects which appear relevant to extend the field of possible applications for thrust cones towards gearboxes constructed with roller bearings.
| 2018-03-13

Vesconite Supports Airboats for African Ecotourism

A company that specializes in African airboat ecotourism tours has switched to the hard-wearing thermoplastic Vesconite discs and holders as a supp...
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2018-03-01

A New Standardizable Calculation Method to Predict the Efficiency of Worm Gear Drives

In this work a physically based method for the tribological investigation of worm gears is presented.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2018-02-01

Emerging Motor Technologies

Copper's continuing role in energy-efficient motor development.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2017-10-01

Baldor Motor Basics: Premium Efficiency Motors

Conservation through lighting alterations using different bulbs, ballasts and light sources is well understood and easy to achieve. The use of improved efficiency three phase induction motors has not been as accepted. There are a number of reasons why conservation efforts with motors have not been as popular.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2017-08-01

Six Key Elements of Gearmotor Optimization

How to Ensure Reliable Performance, Increased Efficiency and Lowest Total Cost of Ownership.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2017-08-01

Tailor-Made

The Role of Coupling Technology in Current Developments in Industry
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2017-08-01

Baldor Motor Basics: Factors that Determine Industrial Electric Bills

A good deal of confusion exists regarding the factors that determine an industrial electric bill. The following information is presented to help sort out the various items on which billing is based, and to offer suggestions on measures to help control and reduce electric utility bills.
| 2017-01-30

Changing Technologies, Changing Perspectives

A Conversation with Jeff Hemphill, CTO at Schaeffler Group USA Inc. Matthew Jaster, Senior Editor

FEATURE ARTICLES | 2016-09-01

Mining for Solutions

Increasing pressure on many fronts is compelling mine operators to thoroughly examine every phase of their operations. Fluctuating demand that whipsaws mineral prices, government-imposed environmental regulations and rising operating costs related to maintenance downtime all pose serious challenges for the mining sector. Add pressure from customers and stakeholders for more sustainable operations as well as union demands for higher wages, and you have a scenario that requires mine operators to exercise every possible option to achieve more efficient operations.
| 2016-08-09

IMTS 2016 First Look

Matthew Jaster, Senior Editor Because the general metalworking industry can’t have all the fun in Chicago this September, here’s a quick guide t...
| 2016-06-14

Mobility for Tomorrow

  CTI Symposium USA Examines Global Transmission Market Matthew Jaster, Senior Editor It began with the dinosaurs. There wa...
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2016-03-01

Sum of the Parts

Energy’s endless energy efficiency game of whack-a-mole, motors have historically always been one of the go-to moles. They’ve been in the spotlight since 1992. Over the past few decades, repeated efficiency laws have seen motor efficiency get whacked into tighter and tighter shape.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2016-02-01

Two-stage Helical Bevel Gearing

Gearing is an essential component in conveyors. The material handling industry appears divided between those who favor high-end three-stage helical bevel gearboxes and those who rely on less expensive worm gearing. But there’s an often over-looked alternative, the two-stage helical bevel gearbox.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2016-02-01

Reducing Food Processing Plant Energy Costs

U.S. manufacturers, such as food processors, face an unprecedented competitive environment and must look for ways to be profitable without negatively affecting the quality of finished products.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2016-02-01

Motor Management Best Practices Part 3

This three-part series on motor management best practices focuses on the importance of instituting a motor management plan as a necessity in effectively administering the electric motors in a facility. The goal of a motor management plan is to take advantage of opportunities for energy savings and increased productivity using energy efficient, reliable motors such as NEMA Premium efficiency motors, herein referred to as “premium efficiency” motors.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2015-12-01

Effect of Assembly Errors in Back-to-Back Gear Efficiency Testing

As gear efficiency is improved in small steps, it is important to be able to distinguish actual improvements from scatter that can occur while testing. An FZG back-to-back gear test rig was used to investigate how the assembly and re-assembly of the same test setup affects the measurements. A spread in torque loss between one assembly and another of the same test setup were observed. Rig conditions also affected the spread in input torque. With knowledge of how the spread in torque loss varies due to assembly, test results could be distinguished between changes due to assembly and actual differences between tests.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2015-12-01

Motor Management - Best Practices

Energy costs and downtime can be greatly reduced by instituting a motor management plan. Part II of this three-part series specifically addresses the establishment of a motor failure policy and the development of purchasing specifications. Part I addressed the general aspects of a motor management plan, including the first steps of creating a motor inventory and guidelines for motor repair and replacement. Part III will examine motor repair specifications as well as preventive and predictive maintenance.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2015-10-01

Motor Management - Best Practices

Reducing losses and increasing profits by instituting a motor management plan is what this series of articles is all about. Here in Part I, we discuss how to create a motor inventory and establish repair-or-replace motor guidelines. Subsequent topics in this three-part series will address (Part II) motor failure policies and purchasing specifications, and (Part III) repair specifications and preventive and predictive maintenance, respectively.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2015-10-01

The Doomsday Clock is Ticking for Gearmotor Manufacturers

The secondhand on the Doomsday dial ominously spins around the face, slowly but ever so surely inching the motor industry towards its inevitable terminus:
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2015-08-01

The Race for Efficiency

Over the past few decades, energy efficiency in motors has become an ever-increasing concern for OEMs and manufacturers alike. With multiple energy bills mandating higher efficiency across ever-broader spectrums of motors, including the most recent Small Motor Rule by the Department of Energy, efficiency has become an essential consideration when choosing a new motor.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2015-06-01

Theoretical and Experimental Study of the Frictional Losses of Radial Shaft Seals for Industrial Gearbox

The improvement of the energy efficiency of industrial gear motors and gearboxes is a common problem for many gear unit manufacturers and end-users. As is typical of other mechanical components, the radial lip seals used in such units generate friction and heat, thus contributing to energy losses of mechanical systems. There exist today simulation tools that are already helping improve the efficiency of mechanical systems — but accurate models for seal frictional losses need to be developed. In this paper SKF presents an engineering model for radial lip seal friction based on a physical approach.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2015-06-01

Calculation of the Efficiency of Worm Gear Drives

This paper presents a physically grounded calculation method to determine the efficiency of worm gear drives. This computation is based on the Institute of Machine Elements, Gears, and Transmissions (MEGT) tribological simulation, which can determine the local tooth friction coefficients (Ref. 1). With this knowledge other power losses such as the bearings, oil churnings and seals power losses can also be calculated.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2015-04-01

How to Get the Most Realistic Efficiency Calculation for Gearboxes

In recent years the estimation of gearbox power loss is attracting more interest — especially in the wind turbine and automotive gearbox industry — but also in industrial gearboxes where heat dissipation is a consideration as well. As new transmissions concepts are being researched to meet both ecological and commercial demands, a quick and reliable estimation of overall efficiency becomes inevitable in designing the optimal gearbox.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2014-12-01

The Small Motor Rule, How Will This Affect You

According to the Department of Energy (DOE), more than half of all electrical energy consumed in the U.S. is used by electric motors. To address this, several years ago, the DOE conducted a technical study as to what could be done to raise the efficiency levels of “small” motors. After years of study and litigation, the Small Motor Rule (SMR) was passed that covers two-digit NEMA frame single- and three-phase ¼ through 3 horsepower motors in open enclosures.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2014-10-01

Low-Efficiency Motors and Gears Still Prevalent

Electric motor-driven systems are the single largest enduser of electricity, accounting for over 40% of global consumption according to the International Energy Agency.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2014-09-01

Load Capacity and Efficiency of Grease-Lubricated Worm Gears

Varying installation requirements for worm gears, as, for example, when used in modular gear systems, can necessitate grease lubrication - especially when adequate sealing for oil lubrication would be too complex. Such worm gears are being increasingly used in outside applications such as solar power plants and slew drives. While knowledge about the operating conditions is often appropriate, the basic understanding for load capacity and efficiency under grease lubrication is quite poor. Investigations done at FZG and sponsored by FVA/AiF are shown here to give an impression of the basic factors of load capacity and efficiency. The results of the investigation indicate a satisfying quality of calculations on heat, load capacity and efficiency based on characteristic parameters of the base oil with only slight modifications to the methodology known from DIN 3996 or ISO TR 14521.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2014-04-01

The Ever-Efficient Motor

This product focus highlights the latest technology in electric motors.
POWER PLAY | 2014-03-01

Kids Dont Have to Become President to Become Deciders

Finding picture books for kids old enough to appreciate them can be a daunting task. There are, of course, the usual suspects--celebs, athletes, boy bands, girl bands, and so on, but not much of substance. That's where David Janosz Jr. enters the picture.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2013-06-01

DC Motor Protection

The purpose of DC motor protection is to extend a motor's lifespan by protecting it from conditions that can damage the motor's windings--both electrically and mechanically.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2013-02-01

Considering Energy-Efficient Motors: Don't Forget the Gearbox

The mechanical components of your drive system play a major role in overall system efficiency. Don't cut corners.
POWER PLAY | 2012-12-01

The More You Rock, the More You Rock and Roll!

The concept is simple enough. Take the traditional rocking chair, the one you’d find on a front porch or the corner of the living room, and give it a 2012 twist.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2012-04-01

Achieving High Electric Motor Efficiency

The use of motor structures which can concentrate magnetic flux allows ferrite PM motors to achieve performance and power densities that approach those of PM motors using rare earth magnets, but without the cost penalties and supply source concerns of rare earth magnets.
PUBLISHER'S PAGE | 2012-02-01

Free Energy for Sale...Are You Buying

Managing Editor Randy Stott takes a look at what is really stopping us from pursuing energy efficiency in engineering.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2012-02-01

The Energy Efficient Agenda

Next time you are strolling across a manufacturing plant, check out the hardware on the ground. Shop floors are nothing but cables plugged into machines, cables plugged into computers, cables plugged into other cables...
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2012-02-01

Optimizing Drive Systems for Energy Savings

In looking for potential opportunities to reduce energy consumption via the drive system, a number of areas should be considered.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2011-12-01

Application of Ceramics to NU-Type Cylindrical Roller Bearings for Machine Tool Main Spindles

Bearings used to support main spindles on machine tools must be capable of higher speed and greater rigidity. This is true in that any main spindle that turns together with a tool or work piece mounted onto it is one of the critical machine tool components that directly affects machining efficiency and accuracy of the machine tool; and, the bearings that support the main spindle are the most critical machine elements on the machine tool.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2011-12-01

Often Overlooked, Lubricants Can Help Lower Energy Consumption

It is a simple fact: better lubrication can lead to dramatic energy savings and an improved bottom line. This ought to interest any plant manager who is looking for ways to reduce operating costs, and it is especially significant at a time when stricter government regulations are in direct contradiction to reducing costs. Lubrication reliability is the solution; this article will describe how manufacturing plants can use “lubrication reliability best-practices” to reduce their energy consumption, emissions and operating costs—all at the same time.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2011-08-01

Motoring Ahead

Synchronous motors controlled by variable speed drives are bringing higher efficiencies to industrial applications.
EVENTS | 2011-04-01

Calendar

The technical calendar from the April 2011 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2010-10-01

The Limbs of Lumenhaus

Motion systems bring award-winning and energy-optimizing “Smart House” to life.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2010-08-01

A Need for Reduced Energy Costs

Options abound for increased efficiency in lubrication.
EVENTS | 2010-08-01

Calendar

Calendar of upcoming events from the August 2010 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2010-02-01

Reducing Electricity Cost through Use of Premium Efficiency Motors

motors with premium efficiency counterparts presents businesses with a significant opportunity to reduce operating costs. A comparison between premium and standard efficiency motors from 0.25 to 10 horsepower is conducted; comparisons of full-load efficiencies are shown, and estimated payback periods are calculated. Methods for calculating the yearly kilowatt-hour consumption and yearly cost savings of premium efficiency motors for this horsepower range are also given. The cost advantages of premium efficiency motors are summarized, and relevant examples of real world cost savings are shown.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2010-02-01

Data Loggers Gauge Wastewater Plants Motor Efficiency

In keeping with a national push to bring greater energy efficiency to wastewater treatment plants, a Pennsylvania facility used data loggers to analyze motor utilization, a first step toward cutting energy costs and meeting environmental rules.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2010-02-01

Total System Efficiency

Much of the industrial energy being consumed by systems is wasted through inefficiency. For this article, a system will be defined as the following components working together: electrical input power, variable frequency drives, induction motors, gearboxes and transmission elements (chains, belts, etc.).
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2010-02-01

AGMA in Full Support of Energy Initiative

Our politicians in Washington continue dithering over the Obama administration energy bill aimed at developing alternative, green sources of energy production. As a result, when this country will have a viable energy program in place is anyone’s guess, given the usual D.C. gridlock. And yet, Americans can take more than cold comfort in the fact that at least some government agencies—U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)—and the private sector—some major manufacturers—are doing more than their share of work in trying to harness our existing, fossil-based energy sources in such a way that they are used to their best efficiencies.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2009-12-01

The Best-Kept Secret in Green Technology

The Bearing Specialists Association explains the role of bearings in ensuring the efficient operation of machinery.
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2009-12-01

Industry News

The complete Industry News section from the December 2009 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2009-02-01

Going Green 101

Perhaps you don’t need convincing that sustainability is the wave of the future. But where to start? Resources of all types—from websites to trade shows to white papers—are waiting to help green your operation. Most areas are home to regional business alliances devoted to helping local manufacturing outlets contribute in an environmentally sound manner. Here are a few go-to resources for going green.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2008-06-01

Motor Decisions Do Indeed Matter--Big Time!

CEE/NEMA repair-or-replace campaign saves energy, dollars and downtime.
[advertisement]