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April 2009

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Technical Articles

Facing the Challenges of the Current Hybrid Electric Drivetrain

Presented is a high-phase, order-induction motor drive for use in a series hybrid architecture. This solution overcomes numerous compromises in current hybrid powertrain designs. Notably, it allows for a vehicle that is competitive in terms of performance and cost.

Lower-Loss Technology for a Stepping Motor

The demand for stepping motors with high efficiency and low losses has been increasing, although the demand had been previously focused on high torque. Also, the selection of the most suitable grade of lamination for improvement in fastening of the laminated cores has reduced losses significantly at their peak, when compared to conventional stepping motors. Lowering the losses of the motor has enabled continuous operation that was previously impossible. An expansion of the stepping motor’s usage into applications where another motor has been used for continuous operation and other uses—due to the heat generation problem—can now be pursued. In addition, these motors are very effective for energy saving. This paper explains the technology used for lowering the iron losses of the stepping motor.

Historic Danish Theatre Gets a Facelift

The Royal Danish Theatre has occupied the heart of Copenhagen for centuries and recently upgraded to a new control system featuring Sprint Electric DC drives to extend the lives of the existing motors, keeping replacement costs down. The Swedish stage design and technology company Visual Act retained most of the original motors and mechanics while providing a much-needed facelift to the stage.

Feature Articles

Packaging Stimulus

Few industries are experiencing change quite as fast as the packaging arena. Lighter-weight containers are being introduced to reduce costs and energy use, packaging is being redesigned to attract consumer attention and manufacturers are using fewer materials in an effort to address environmental concerns.

Beyond the Quick Fix - Supply Chain Software

In order for a company to be as efficient as possible, production, inventory and distribution components must be a top priority. A focused supply chain that gets the right materials to the right places in the allotted time frame encourages repeat business. These are concepts somewhat overlooked by many business executives in today’s economy.

To Buy American or Not - That is the Question

Much has been argued about the “buy American” clause included in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.

Product News

Product News

The complete Product News section from the April 2009 issue of Power Transmission Engineering magazine.

Industry News

Industry News

The complete Industry News section from the April 2009 issue of Power Transmission Engineering magazine.

Turning Brownfields Green

The new energy economy is making some headway in the manufacturing community. Organizations are coming up with creative strategies to convert old industrial plants into green manufacturing hubs or simply cost-effective renovation projects. It’s another sign that the country is taking sustainability and environmental awareness seriously.

Events

Run Like the Wind - Windpower Conference Heads to Chicago

Wind is the talk of the town. It has become especially relevant to the power transmission community where bearings, gears, couplings, motors and gearboxes are providing the equipment for this thriving alternative energy industry. It comes as no surprise that the Windpower 2009 Conference and Exhibition, arriving in Chicago from May 4–7, will be the largest gathering of wind energy professionals and technologies to date.

Calendar

The Events Calendar from the April 2009 issue of Power Transmission Engineering magazine.