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Applications

PUBLISHER'S PAGE | 2024-12-11

Natural Logo Rhythm

As publishers, we’re constantly reevaluating our brand and our identity. We want our connection with you to remain close and fresh, so that when you see our publication, your reaction is, “Oh, yeah. These are my people. They speak my language.”

Of course, much of that reaction is derived from the content. But some of it is also from the design and how the content is presented. Over time, designs become stale. Fonts, color schemes and visual effects that were once popular become as outdated as bell-bottom pants. (Wait, never mind. I think those are back in style again. Anyway, you get my point.)

FEATURE ARTICLES | 2024-09-13

Technology and Reports Help Optimize Operations

Digital Transformation. IIoT. Industry 4.0. While they may seem like trending buzzwords, the technologies are critical to operations being efficient and competitive, and reducing unplanned downtime. Every industry strives for maximum efficiency; be that manufacturing, oil & gas, or water/wastewater. For capturing production data, the days of the clipboard and manual data analysis are gone.

| 2024-04-16

PBC Linear Provides Solutions for Medical and Lab Automation

A wide range of medical devices, digital imaging or scanning applications, and laboratory automation rely on linear motion. For laboratory automation, the need for increased productivity, higher accuracy, and better reproducibility of experimental results are driving the increased use of linear motion. Sophisticated medical devices and digital imaging or scanning applications are increasingly relying on linear motion control systems which have become crucial for the successful development, progress, and deployment of these vital medical tools. Here are some examples from PBC Linear:

FEATURE ARTICLES | 2024-02-06

Building a Better Bearing

With an “all-hands on deck” approach to maintenance today, engineers require the latest tools and technologies in the form of new software/apps to make MRO tasks easier. Turns out, technology is allowing your smartphones, tablets and computers to track bearing reliability and performance with an emphasis on sustainability, longevity and analysis.

REVOLUTIONS | 2023-08-30

Interact Analysis Examines Ultra-Low Voltage Motors Market

New research by market intelligence firm Interact Analysis shows that the ultra-low voltage motors market is experiencing a period of growth. By 2027 the market will be worth almost $6.5bn driven by demand from battery driven applications and a need for greater flexibility in manufacturing and logistics processes. The increased use of mobile robots is having a huge impact on the market for ultra-low voltage motors and, as a result of this, the supplier landscape will change significantly. 

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-05-15

Motion Announces Executive Officer Promotions

Motion Industries, Inc. is pleased to announce the promotions of Joe Limbaugh to executive vice president – chief operations officer and James Howe to executive vice president – chief commercial officer/chief technology officer, effective June 1, 2023

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-04-25

Motion Names New Senior Vice President and CFO

Motion Industries, Inc. is pleased to announce the promotion of Patrick Cummings to senior vice president and chief financial officer, effective immediately.

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INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-01-13

Siemens Announces Change of Leadership for Large Drives Applications

Effective January 1, 2023, Michael Reichle has been appointed CEO of Siemens Portfolio Company Large Drives Applications (LDA). He succeeds Hermann Kleinod, who will remain an integral part of the global LDA management team. As CEO, Reichle assumes all areas of responsibility of his predecessor.

REVOLUTIONS | 2022-02-17

Delivering Next Generation e-Mobility Motor and Drive Solutions

Kyburz Switzerland AG, Relies on ABM Drives for High-Performance Technology in Postal Delivery and Electric Sports Cars

...
REVOLUTIONS | 2022-02-14

Schaeffler TriFinity Wheel Bearing Provides e-Mobility Solution

Schaeffler’s TriFinity wheel bearing is a fully optimized, three-row, angular contact ball bearing that provides higher stiffness and longer servic...
REVOLUTIONS | 2022-02-07

Photonics West On-Demand

The online version of Photonics West 2022 takes place February 21-27, 2022. The conference will hold an on-demand week that will c...
EVENTS | 2022-02-01

Calendar

Upcoming events in March and April
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2022-02-01

Energy Initiative

The need for smart, sustainable and efficient components
PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-02-01

Product News

The complete Product News section from the February 2022 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
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REVOLUTIONS | 2022-01-31

Gearmotors: The Art of Precision and Reliability

High performance, high precision and component compatibility top the list of gearmotor trends in our product-roundup for 2022. These products can b...
REVOLUTIONS | 2022-01-25

Mach III Custom Clutch Solves Stick-Slip Issue in Vehicle Research System

Torque Inc., a Mach III distributor, had to supply a clutch for a customer’s testing assembly that connec...
REVOLUTIONS | 2021-12-09

The Art of the Balance

While sitting at a tire shop a while back. I could not help but overhear a customer tell the mechanic he could only afford to pay for the new tires...
EVENTS | 2021-12-01

Calendar

Calendar of early 2022 events
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2021-12-01

Stay "On-Track" When Selecting a Linear Guide System

Linear guide systems are perhaps the most diverse group of products in the motion control industry. Here's how to pick the best one for your application.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2021-12-01

Influence of the Load-Dependent Center Distance

Considering the local flank parameters, such as pressure or transmission error, a significant influence of the load-dependent center distance can be observed. With the FVA-Workbench, the load-dependent center distance is always considered.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2021-12-01

Motion Control Trending Topics 2021

Digital transformation is taking place across industrial manufacturing and is most prominent in areas such as motion control, automation and robotics.
REVOLUTIONS | 2021-11-12

Regal Rexnord Enhances Industrial Powertrain Capabilities

The Regal electromechanical powertrain offering encompasses a broad range of Regal-produced components (e.g., motors, speed reducers, gearing, coup...
REVOLUTIONS | 2021-11-08

How the Global Hydraulic Fluid Market Is Changing—And What It Means for the Future

The size of the worldwide hydraulic fluids market is expected to be worth $77.5 billion by the end of 2021 and this growth is expected to continue ...
REVOLUTIONS | 2021-10-12

Fenner Acquires Lumsden Corporation

Advances and expands belting and high-value component solutions

Fenner Precision Polymers recently announced the acquisi...
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2021-10-01

Bright Skies, Big Opportunities

Clean Sky Project in Europe Focuses on Reimagining the Aerospace Ecosystem
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2021-10-01

Linear Motion Components Take Flight in Aerospace and Defense Industry

Key advantages of linear motion components in aerospace applications.
PRODUCT NEWS | 2021-10-01

Product News

The complete Product News section from the October 2021 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
REVOLUTIONS | 2021-09-27

The Packaging Perspective 2021

Pack Expo Las Vegas and Healthcare Packaging Expo offers more than 1,500 exhibitors to showcase the latest new materials, technologies and solution...
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2021-09-01

Animatronics

Animatronics covers a wide range of applications, power levels and interfaces, as well as different actuator methods.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2021-09-01

The Packaging Perspective

Pack Expo Las Vegas Gears Up for In-Person Trade Show
PRODUCT NEWS | 2021-09-01

Product News

The complete Product News section from the September 2021 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
PUBLISHER'S PAGE | 2021-09-01

Freddie Mercury in the Show Me State

The Motion + Power Technology Expo takes place September 13-16 in St. Louis. It's going to be a different kind of trade show than most people have ever experienced.
REVOLUTIONS | 2021-08-19

Value-Driven Condition Monitoring

Schaeffler's OPTIME Improves the Reliability of Rotating Equipment

We first discussed Schaeffler’s end-to-end wireless sensor solution ca...
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2021-08-01

Design Reviews - What to Review and When

Try to gain as much advantage as possible when you do design reviews; they can result in greatly improved designs and can cut multiple iterations out of the process.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2021-08-01

Gear Manufacturing in Motion

Electric and fluid power has expanded the focus recently at the Motion + Power Technology Expo - September 14-16, St. Louis, Missouri - but gear manufacturing remains the core of AGMA's biennial trade show.
PRODUCT NEWS | 2021-08-01

Product News

The complete Product News section from the July 2021 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2021-08-01

The Influence of Rolling Bearing Profiling on Rigidity and Rating Life

An explanation of the detailed calculation of rolling bearings in the FVA-Workbench based on consideration of the profiling of roller bearings.
REVOLUTIONS | 2021-07-20

Avoiding Common Pitfalls When Selecting & Integrating Linear Modules

Fully integrated linear modules can be versatile and cost-effective for linear transport applications in packaging machinery. When specifying and i...
REVOLUTIONS | 2021-07-16

The Sustainable Shop Floor

Energy from renewable sources? Natural resource conservation? Reduction in pollution and waste? Energy efficient components? Many talk a good game ...
REVOLUTIONS | 2021-06-07

Maximizing Bearing Performance

Carrier and SKF Collaborate on Centrifugal Compressor Technology The opportunity to improve product design separates market lea...
POWER PLAY | 2021-06-01

History-Making Micromotors on Mars!

Helicopter Makes Maiden Voyage Across the Red Planet with Help from Maxon
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2021-06-01

The Power Shift

Companies look to fuel economy, energy efficiency and operating costs to improve off-highway applications.
PRODUCT NEWS | 2021-06-01

Product News

he complete Product News section from the June 2021 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2021-06-01

Electric Car Safety

Freudenberg provides DIAvent pressure equalization element for Chinese passenger cars.
REVOLUTIONS | 2021-04-13

Hannover Messe 2021: Smart Manufacturing

Robotics, digital tools, automation and artificial intelligence will all play a significant role in the factory of the future. After two days of vi...
REVOLUTIONS | 2021-04-09

Hannover Messe 2021: Industrial Transformation

The show must go on. And though we're extremely disappointed to not spend the week in Germany taking in the latest and greatest manufacturing techn...
REVOLUTIONS | 2021-04-08

Ask These 10 Questions to Innovate with Purpose

Regal Beloit Examines Product Design in the PT and Motion Control Industry

Too frequently a product is developed and then the manufacture...
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2021-04-01

Problem with Disk Pack Coupling

I have a problem with a disc flexible shaft coupling that is used in screw compressors. This coupling is cracked and damaged after a short time, and the changing rate of this coupling is very high — about every 3 months. But as I understand from the machine manual, the coupling replacement may be every 8,000 hours or 12 months...
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2021-04-01

Electrification Outlook

An E-Mobility conversation with Jeff Hemphill, vice president and CTO at Schaeffler Group North America.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2021-04-01

Electrification Reimagined

A cheat sheet on E-Mobility, electrification, and the push toward a digital future.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2021-04-01

How Reliable is a Reliability Calculation?

Bearing subsystem life and reliability explained.
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2021-04-01

Industry News

The complete Industry News section from the April 2021 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
REVOLUTIONS | 2021-03-23

What is Sensor Linearity and What Does It Mean?

Most analog output sensors have general specifications such as linearity (or non-linearity), repeatability, and resolution, as well as environmenta...
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2021-03-01

A Ten-Minute Introduction to Digital Filters

Filtering is needed in various control and communication Applications.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2021-03-01

Mechatronic Subassemblies for Factory Automation

Fully integrated mechatronic subassemblies provide versatile and cost-effective solutions for factory automation applications.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2021-03-01

Examining Functional Safety in Motion Control Applications

The increased complexity of components as well as the need for system integration continues to challenge machine designers today.
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2021-03-01

Industry News

The complete Industry News section from the March 2021 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
| 2021-02-22

The Digital Experience with Regal Beloit

Regal Beloit Corporation recently announced it is now putting QR codes on Sealmaster and Browning mounted bearings products and bearing boxes inclu...
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2021-02-01

Consideration of Dynamic Excitation Effects in the Gear Design Process of Two-Stage Gearboxes for E-Mobility

Consideration of dynamic excitation effects in the gear design of two-stage gearboxes for e-mobility.
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2021-02-01

Industry News

The complete Industry News section from the February 2021 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
PUBLISHER'S PAGE | 2021-02-01

Renewed Energy

Energy consumption isn't just an issue at home, though. It's one of today's key issues facing individuals, businesses and governments all over the world.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2021-02-01

How Predictive Maintenance Can Unlock Offshore Wind Growth

A practical guide to adopting digital technology in wind energy applications.
| 2021-01-21

Smart Moves with Bosch Rexroth

Extrusion press hydraulics upgrade uses phased approach to improve results

The extrusion press is one of today’s most valuable and hardwo...
| 2020-12-10

Fenner Precision Polymers Expands Portfolio with MAV Acquisition

Fenner Precision Polymers, a Michelin Group Company, recently announced the acquisition of MAV S.p.A., an Italian company, located in Altopiano del...
| 2020-12-01

Bosch Rexroth Celebrates 30 Years of Linear Motion Innovations

Bosch Rexroth began developing linear bushings, shafts, slides, and transfer tables as prototypes in the 1960s. The first two complete linear modul...
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2020-12-01

An Aerospace Action Plan

Three Trends to Consider Heading into 2021
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2020-12-01

Industry News

The complete Industry News section from the December 2020 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
| 2020-11-24

Stainless Steel Powertrains Provide Peace of Mind

Hardly a day passes without a new FDA recall of some food product as the number of Americans falling ill from food contamination infections continu...
| 2020-11-18

A Changed World - Challenges and Opportunities

2020 started out like a normal year with some chatter about a virus outbreak in China but then events quickly spread and the world, as we knew it, ...
| 2020-10-28

A Look at Hannover Messe Digital Days

Photo courtesy of Deutsche Messe. Early October brought the next collection of training and technology seminars from Hannover Messe Digital Days...
| 2020-10-15

2020 and Beyond with Bonfiglioli

Company offers new geared motor platform while navigating unusual business environment

What’s a product launch look like during a pandemi...
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2020-10-01

Lubrication for Life

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.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2020-10-01

Sulzer Supplies Recirculation Pumps and Offers IoT Analytics for Retrofit

Nordlaks is a Norwegian fully integrated company that produces, processes and sells Atlantic salmon and rainbow trout worldwide.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2020-10-01

Keeping Drives Electrically Quiet: Ferrites, Shielding and Grounding

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.
POWER PLAY | 2020-10-01

Mechanical Wonders of All Sizes

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.
POWER PLAY | 2020-09-21

How Modified Standard Gearboxes Solve Real-World Problems

Gearboxes are essential for practically every industry. What happens when there are specific challenges presented - whether it be environmental, safety or application challenges? How can a gearbox work in extreme conditions? Learn how we can implement a standard gearbox with modifications that are ideal for your applications.

FEATURE ARTICLES | 2020-09-01

Schaeffler Readies Launch of End-to-End Wireless Sensor Solution with OPTIME

A discussion of the evolution of condition monitoring for bearings and the upcoming introduction of company's next-generation condition monitoring platform.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2020-09-01

The Maintenance of High Quality and Taste

Valves help control temperature, pressure and viscosity for alcohol fermentation.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2020-09-01

Comparing Data Sources for Condition Monitoring Suitability

Condition-based maintenance requires detailed state knowledge, often acquired by means of sensors.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2020-09-01

Various Coil Configurations Used in Coreless Motors

Three-dimensional finite element analysis (FEA) simulation and research from published information is used to compare the features of various coil configurations.
POWER PLAY | 2020-09-01

Motors in Space

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.
| 2020-08-26

Condition Monitoring with ABB

The PTE September coverage in print and online examines condition monitoring advancements for bearings. We recently discussed some of these innovat...
| 2020-08-12

I-MAK Examines Causes of Gearbox Failure

In a world of optimization and digitization where factories are trying to reduce costs and downtime, the demand for identification of basic gearbox...
| 2020-08-03

Freudenberg Sealing Develops Thermally Conductive Elastomer for Electric Cars


Wherever a lot of computing is performed or high currents flow, large amounts of waste heat are generated. Freudenberg Sealing Technologi...
PRODUCT NEWS | 2020-08-01

Product News

The latest product news from Miki Pulley, Voith, Firgelli Automations, Heidenhain, Zero-Max, Gates, KEB America, Siemens, H2W Technologies and Emerson Automation
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2020-08-01

Solar Tracker System Helps Overcome Site Topography Challenges

RBI Solar relies on TB Wood's custom jaw couplings to provide long lasting performance in tough environments.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2020-08-01

Hannover Messe USA Goes Digital

There would have been an incredible lineup of products and technologies in Chicago in the Hannover Messe USA pavilion at IMTS 2020 -- everything from cobots and smart factory automation solutions to digital twins and mechanical power transmission components. Unfortunately, the planet had other ideas this year and we continue to conduct business on laptops, smartphones and Zoom meetings for the foreseeable future.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2020-08-01

Monitoring Concept Study for Aerospace Power Gearbox Drivetrain

Rolls-Royce is pioneering the UltraFan engine family architecture containing a planetary gearbox in a power range of 15 to 80 megawatts. To increase the efficiency of the UltraFan, a planetary gearbox is introduced between fan and intermediate pressure compressor. This enables running the turbine to rotate faster and allows a reduced fan speed.
| 2020-07-17

Force Control Oil Shear Crane Brake Solves Maintenance Headache

Brake Upgrade Fixes Manufacturing Challenges at SAF

Working three shifts around the clock throughout the week doesn’t leave time in the s...
| 2020-07-17

Smart Software Solutions

Leveraging Digital Technology with Siemens

Although the community couldn’t get together in Las Vegas, Siemens Media and Analyst Conferenc...
| 2020-06-19

Cortec Enhances Corrosion Control Protection Offerings

Cortec is globally committed to providing corrosion solutions that are both cost-effective and environmentally-sound. The organization has stepped ...
| 2020-06-08

Shrink Your Start-to-Finish Time

Boosting Productivity in Gearbox Design with Siemens Digital

An increasing awareness of environmental concerns has given rise in the auto...
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2020-06-01

A Little Peace of Mind

Condition Monitoring Technology Evolves for Gear Drives, Gearmotors and Gearboxes. Here's a look at what some leading manufacturers are offering.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2020-06-01

Upgrading Air-Cooled Heat Exchangers (ACHE) and Cooling Towers

Many industrial facilities with air-cooled heat exchangers (ACHE) and cooling towers often have older units installed. Depending on the age, repairs, and maintenance done over the years it may have had an impact on performance. Upon conducting site inspections of the equipment, it is sometimes found that ACHE or cooling tower components have degraded. This can result in a system that is not very energy-efficient and delivers substandard cooling performance.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2020-06-01

Dynamic Behavior of Planetary Gears

In planetary gear systems of high power density and high gear ratio, helical gears create undesirable tilting moments on the planet gears; therefore, spur gears are still preferred for planetary gears -- a special challenge with respect to noise. Specifically, the different behavior of planetary gears with sequential and symmetric gear mesh is explained in this paper.
POWER PLAY | 2020-06-01

3x3 Puzzle Cubes with Gears

Looking at a Gear Cube XXL, you can't help but think about a Rubik's Cube. Both are 3x3 puzzle cubes with brightly colored pieces. Moreover, both are sold commercially as toys.
| 2020-04-29

The Latest in E-Mobility Technologies

This sidebar examines some of the latest E-Mobility products and technologies from companies like Schaeffler, Eaton and Dana. Check out the full ar...
| 2020-04-02

The Evolution of AGVs

Konrad Lorenz won the Nobel Prize in Physiology and Medicine in 1973 for his experiments with animal behavior. Lorenz discovered the principle of i...
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2020-04-01

Romax Improves Reckon Drive Product Reliability with Drivetrain Structural Simulation Software

Durability requirements must be balanced with the need for lightweight and low-cost solutions which meet noise and vibration targets whilst also exhibiting excellent efficiency.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2020-04-01

The Dynamic Drive Toward Vehicle Electrification

The Future of E-Mobility is a Mystery - One That Will Lead to the Same Innovation, Disruption and Ingenuity Found in the Early Days of the Automotive Industry
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2020-04-01

Industry News

The complete Industry News section from the April 2020 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
| 2020-03-13

Motors without Rare Magnets: What are the Options? (Part Two)

In Part I we explored various motor technologies used today for industrial and traction motor design. Here in Part II we will explore another motor...
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2020-03-01

Value-Driven

New Opportunities and Technologies Allow AC Motors to Enhance Motion Control Applications.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2020-03-01

Shielding Sensors

Dust, lubricants, extreme weather. No matter what environment your sensors operate in, there are bound to be elements you have to protect them from. Here's how Heidenhain designs their encoders to specifically meet those challenges.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2020-03-01

Power - and Sand - to the People

Zach Rountree's life would be a lot easier if his job site was closer to town. As the owner and president of Rountree Construction, he oversees an operation that pulls 200 tons of material an hour out of a remote lake in Stockton, Georgia. Big equipment demands three-phase power, but out in the remote timberlands of rural Georgia, only single-phase power was available.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2020-03-01

Improvement of the Noise and Vibration Behavior of an Electromechanical Brake Booster - an Integral Approach

The automotive world faces a tremendous change. Autonomous driving and electrification are two big topics in this context that are pushing this change. The demand for higher comfort, higher safety and tightened environmental requirements drive as well the technological change from former mechanical actuations to electro-mechanical systems in new vehicles. This can be observed especially for braking and steering systems.
| 2020-02-12

Force Control Dynamometers Suitable for High-Torque, Low-Speed Testing

High torque, low-speed testing is often a challenge for dynamometers equipped with traditional load brakes. Testing which requires the brake to abs...
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2020-02-01

A Mechatronic State of Mind

Welcome to the Age of Information, where flexible, intelligent drive systems separate the haves from the have nots
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2020-02-01

Creature Comfort

Intelligent drive technology in the cowshed
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.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2020-02-01

Motor Sizing Unusual Loads

One of the fun parts of the motion industry is involvement in popular movies! Motor specifications can be a bit rough: "I need to spin a 120-pound actor (and chair) 180 degrees in one-half second. He will be sitting up-right."
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2020-02-01

Industry News

The complete Industry News section from the February 2020 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
POWER PLAY | 2020-02-01

Schaeffler Goes Big in Bearing Applications

One of the largest components manufactured by Schaeffler last year was a double-row tapered roller bearing featuring an outer diameter measuring 3.6 meters and a weight just over nine tons.
| 2020-01-29

From Walkarounds to Wireless Monitoring

Advances in condition monitoring technology means maintenance and operations teams can spend less time collecting data, and more time acting on it,...
| 2020-01-22

Romax Improves Reckon Drive Product Reliability with Software

The shift towards electric drivetrains has created unprecedented demand for new transmission architectures across numerous vehicle platforms at a t...
| 2020-01-14

Signs of a Noisy Reference - Using Successive Approximation ADCs

High speed ADCs have become quite inexpensive and are commonly deployed. Care needs to be done when analyzing their outputs to determine s...
| 2019-12-02

Done-In-One Roller Bearing Measurement Solution

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TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2019-12-01

Reliability Safeguarding for an 8 MW Wind Energy Gearbox in Serial Production

Prototype and Process Development Ensuring Stable Quality at the Highest Level
| 2019-11-08

Vesconite Supplies Bushings for Record-Breaking Miniature Steam Train

The team that was awarded the Guinness World Record in 2017 for the longest distance covered by a miniature steam train is setting its sights on im...
| 2019-10-24

Motors without Rare Magnets: What are the Options? (Part One)

Lower-cost motor technologies exist that can be an attractive alternative to neo-based BL PM motors - and are not subject to unpredictable supp...

ASK THE EXPERT | 2019-10-01

Bearing Materials and Coating Trends

What trends do you see in bearing materials and coatings that will benefit the power transmission industry?
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2019-10-01

General Modeling Method of Power Losses in Transmission with Parameter Identification

In this paper, the models for different power loss sources in transmissions from literature are applied and compared, which form the two methods - ISO 14179-2 and the joint model to estimate the power losses in a transmission. A 2-speed transmission in an electric vehicle is used as a case study to compare the two methods and validate them with experimental data.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2019-10-01

Validation Approach of PM Gears for e-Drive Applications

Key technical drivers which can be addressed by advanced PM manufacturing technologies are, for example, the need for system downsizing in transmissions and differentials, the need for developing systems with higher power density and the strong NVH (Noise Vibration Harshness) requirements - especially for electrified transmissions or e-axle solutions.
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2019-10-01

Industry News

The complete Industry News section from the October 2019 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
| 2019-09-12

What Does the Future Hold for the Automotive Industry?

We all want to know the answer to this question as it tells us as a business where to invest our R&D development, steers us to consider what ke...
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2019-09-01

NORD Gear Offers Drive Solutions for Intelligent Brewing

Worm, bevel, and parallel shaft gear units were installed at two breweries to provide the necessary process control.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2019-09-01

Gearbox Development for the Food and Beverage Processing Industry

How one gearbox manufacturer took an existing design and transformed it to meet the needs of this demanding environment.
EVENTS | 2019-09-01

Come and Get It

Learn, touch and taste at Process Expo.
POWER PLAY | 2019-09-01

Picking and Placing with Flexible Fingers

They're like real fingers, able to pick up hard stuff, a spark plug or a metal pipe connector, and pick up soft stuff without breaking or smushing it: an egg, a loaf of bread, a donut.
| 2019-08-28

SKF Examines the Power of Data & Machine Learning

Data is fast becoming one of the most important assets for companies throughout industry. In particular, it holds the key for developing a new gene...
| 2019-08-22

Gearboxes - Customized Solutions for Demanding Real-World Applications

Because gearboxes are used in practically every industry, engineers often have to come up with creative solutions to a wide variety of unusual challenges. Perhaps you are facing problems with lifespan, environment or safety in your own applications. Diequa president Meikel Quaas will share multiple examples and case studies of gearbox inventions his company has built for customers from around the world.

| 2019-08-19

Considerations for Choosing the Correct Rolling Element Bearing Characteristics

Daily experience in application engineering has proven that the selection of the correct bearing type can be successfully achieved by customers bas...
| 2019-08-08

The 6 Latest Trends in Direct Drive Motor Technology

Despite the maturity of the machine tool industry, allowing for many advancements in engineering design over the span of decades, a machine is stil...
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2019-08-01

Analyzing Contact Patterns for UAV Helicopter Transmissions

In a research project at the Vienna University of Technology, the KISSsoft design software was used to check a new drivetrain concept and the micro-geometry of the bevel gear stage for a UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle).
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2019-08-01

Using Couplings to Reduce Downtime

Downtime, downtime, downtime. When it's planned, it's bearable. When it's not, it's not. To maintain machinery, planned downtime is necessary. To fix broken equipment, unplanned downtime is excruciating, especially when your factory is running closer and closer to full capacity.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2019-08-01

All the Small Things

Packaging and material handling applications are reaping the benefits of smaller, smarter and more efficient components.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2019-08-01

Adapt, Embrace and Innovate at Pack Expo 2019

Pack Expo Las Vegas (Sept. 23-25; Las Vegas Convention Center), co-located with Healthcare Packaging EXPO, showcases the latest packaging technologies to help manufacturers improve operations and stay competitive.
POWER PLAY | 2019-08-01

Renewable Building Blocks

LEGO & Vestas Collaborate on Sustainability Project.
| 2019-07-19

Product Spotlight: Romax Nexus Blends Desktop and Cloud Solution Technologies

There are several driving factors in today’s manufacturing environment that ...
| 2019-07-16

A Better Way to Measure High-Performance Plastics Means Better Performance

Caption: Wear and friction data from application testing on two grades of PEEK.

| 2019-06-18

Getting Your Hands on Smart Tools

Forget the IIoT and Industry 4.o buzzwords. We're not interested in 10 to 15 years down the road or what the factory of the future is going to look...
| 2019-06-03

Morgan Advanced Materials Examines Wind Turbine Mechanics

Reliance on wind power is increasing, so the industry must continue to find ways to operate more efficiently, while reducing maintenance and costs....
EVENTS | 2019-06-01

The Electric Evolution

CTI Symposium Presents Latest Automotive Transmission Developments and Applications.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2019-06-01

Motor Technology Makeover

Efficiency, Size, Space and Mounting Requirements Highlight Customer Requests for No Compromise.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2019-06-01

Motor Design for Aerospace Applications

Modern aircraft, missiles and space vehicles employ a large number of electric motors and actuators. While the basic design of these motors is in many respects very similar to that of their automotive and industrial counterparts, motors for aerospace applications differ significantly in some areas.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2019-06-01

Documentation of Gearbox Reliability - An Upcoming Demand

The proof of the reliability of a gear drive is now an additional requirement. In Europe, the acceptance authorities for wind turbines are requesting a system reliability proof from gearbox manufacturers. The AGMA committee reviewing the AGMA 6006 standard for wind turbines is considering adding a chapter about design for reliability. However, reliability considerations are not new; NASA, for example, was in the 1980s using reliability concepts for gear drives.
POWER PLAY | 2019-06-01

Cars with Jet Engines

In the late 1940s, the U.S. auto industry started an exciting experiment and spent decades on it. One result came in '63, when the Turbine was introduced by Chrysler Corp., now a part of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA). In appearance, the two-door, four-passenger car looked like a regular car, but it wasn't. Under its sleek shell, the car had a jet engine.
| 2019-05-07

Wittenstein Smart Gearboxes

Shaping the Future of Manufacturing

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| 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...
VOICES | 2019-04-01

Troubleshooting: Use ALL of Your Senses

Troubleshooting infrequent intermittent problems can be one of the most frustrating engineering areas. It is also a great opportunity to use system knowledge and all of your senses and sleuthing abilities.
PRODUCT NEWS | 2019-04-01

Product News

The complete Product News section from the April 2019 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2019-04-01

Automotive Adjustment

The automotive industry is shifting for everyone, bearings manufacturers included. Here's what you need to know to make sure you're shifting with it.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2019-04-01

Keeping Production Running

Cement Backer Board Plant Utilizes Oil Shear Clutch Brake
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2019-04-01

Planning Ahead

Navigating Clutch/Brake Operation in Harsh Environmental Conditions: Chemicals, saltwater, food particles, heat, dust, and electrical corrosion are just a few of the many issues that can cause clutches and brakes to fail prematurely.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2019-04-01

Deep-Sea Microbe Research

Faulhaber motors help seek climate answers in deep-sea trenches
POWER PLAY | 2019-04-01

Hands-Free Driving in the 1950s

Yes, the headline is correct: Autonomous vehicles are not a new idea. In fact, in the 1950s, handsfree driving so interested General Motors engineers that they designed a concept car for it. And in 1956, at its own auto show, the GM Motorama, the automaker unveiled the car, the Firebird II.
| 2019-03-28

Troubleshooting: Use ALL of Your Senses

Troubleshooting infrequent intermittent problems can be one of the most frustrating engineering...
| 2019-03-26

Hannover Messe 2.0

(Main image courtesy of Deutsche Messe, 2018) Hannover Messe 2019 will focus on the integration, digitization and interconnection of industrial ...
| 2019-03-13

Faulhaber Assists with Deep-Sea Microbe Research

What influence does hell have on heaven? This is not an issue of theology: marine sc...
PRODUCT NEWS | 2019-03-01

Product News

The complete Product News section from the March 2019 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2019-03-01

Systematic Improvement

With AGVs, a primary bottleneck on productivity is battery life. But when looking at an AGV as a full system, there are plenty of ways this bottleneck can be widened.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2019-03-01

In Motion

The following special product news section examines the latest products and technologies in motion control.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2019-03-01

Engineering Showcase - March 2019

Special advertising section featuring mechatronics and motion control.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2019-03-01

Making Sense Out of Autonomous Vehicles

Autonomous vehicles (AVs), in particular, are set to utilize sensors for a multiple array of new technologies. In fact, lidar sensors may be the key to unlocking the potential of driverless cars in the future.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2019-03-01

Insider's Guide to Automate 2019 and Promat

Automate Show Examines the Integration of Robotics, Automation and Machine Vision, while Promat explores the latest in material handling technology.
EVENTS | 2019-03-01

Calendar

The complete technical calendar from the March 2019 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
POWER PLAY | 2019-03-01

No Regrets Over Lost Opportunity

It was recently announced that the planet Mars has at least one thing in common with planet Earth: all good things come to an end. In this case, the good thing is the recently announced and documented (Feb. 12) demise of the Mars rover Opportunity.
| 2019-02-12

Cement Backer Board Plant Utilizes Oil Shear Clutch Brakes

Stan Porter, Force Control Industries & Jim Wahl, Wahl Marketing Communications Fin Pan Inc. (Hamilton, Ohio) is an industry leader in the c...
| 2019-02-04

Construction Time Again

Bauma 2019 Examines Sustainability, Digitization and Energy Efficiency

Bauma 2019 (April 8-14, Munich, Germany) is a complete overview of...
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2019-02-01

Industry News

The complete Industry News section from the February 2019 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
| 2019-01-28

Servo Needs a Solid Footing

Donald P. Labriola II, president and founder of QuickSilver Controls, Inc. For a servo system, it is important to remember that the servo respon...
| 2019-01-23

Improperly Testing Belt Tension Can Easily Damage Small Motors

Donald P. Labriola II, president and founder of QuickSilver Controls, Inc. Most of us want to just instinctively squeeze a belt between a pair o...
| 2019-01-14

Engineering in the Modern Age

There is a growing social chasm developing in society in general that we will have to address: the value of formal education. When I grew up thi...
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2018-12-01

How to Deal With Growing Pains

Wind turbines are getting bigger than ever, and the manufacturing infrastructure that facilitates their construction needs to start growing with them.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2018-12-01

Thermal Analysis and Optimization of Gearboxes by Simulation

With the increasing mechanical power capacity of gearboxes, the thermal power limit tends to become the limiting factor. To achieve a balanced system, the gear unit needs extra cooling. Using a fan that is mounted to a fast rotating shaft is a common solution. For this solution an optimal design is investigated.
EVENTS | 2018-12-01

Calendar

The complete technical Calendar from the December 2018 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2018-12-01

Industry News

The complete Industry News section from the December 2018 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
| 2018-11-27

SPS IPC Drives 2018

SPS IPC Drives (November 27-29 in Nuremberg, Germany), covers the entire spectrum of smart and digital automation - from simple sensors to intellig...
| 2018-11-01

Chain-Stretch Monitoring System Prevents Plant Downtime

Chain drives are a critical part of the manufacturing process in many industries, whether the chains act as conveyors for glass containers or trans...
| 2018-10-03

Cooling Tower Components: Pros and Cons

Written by: Jerome Jennings, global product manager, SPX Cooling Technologies, Inc. Cooling towers can use several power transmission technologi...
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2018-10-01

The Consistency Game

A Look at Gear & Gear Drive Lubrication Performance Improvements
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2018-10-01

Gearmotors Pulling, Pushing and Controlling Their Weight

Industrial mainstay adapts to remain relevant in a 4.0 world
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2018-10-01

Hannover Messe USA - What we Learned

IMTS 2018 had its fair share of machine tools, 3D printers and advanced robotics. Meanwhile, the East Hall — home to Hannover Messe USA — took a more systematic approach, highlighting the smart components and techniques that will be integral in developing the digital factory of the future.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2018-10-01

The Future of E-Mobility

Schaeffler Touts System Solutions and Electrification Advancements at Detroit Symposium
EVENTS | 2018-10-01

Calendar

The complete technical Calendar from the October 2018 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
POWER PLAY | 2018-10-01

The World's Most Famous Mass Damper

Marvels of engineering have always drawn crowds. But when we think of tourist destinations, we think of old, opulent buildings like the Vatican or Versailles, massive, elaborately designed fountains, or skyscrapers.
| 2018-09-25

Future of E-Mobility

Schaeffler Touts System Solutions and Electrification at Detroit Symposium

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| 2018-09-17

Hannover Messe USA: What We Learned

The East Hall—home to Hannover Messe USA— took a systematic approach to manufacturing, highlighting the smart components and techniques that will b...
PUBLISHER'S PAGE | 2018-09-01

Purchasing Efficiency

You may have noticed a lot of merger and acquisition activity lately in the power transmission industry. What does it mean?
PRODUCT NEWS | 2018-09-01

Product News

The complete Product News section from the September 2018 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2018-09-01

Pack Expo: Automation and Education

Ask any exhibitor at Pack Expo International and the co-located Healthcare Packaging Expo (Oct. 14-17 at McCormick Place, Chicago) why they're there, and you'll probably get the same response: end users.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2018-09-01

Influential Criteria on the Optimization of a Gearbox, with Application to an Automatic Transmission

In the design of an automatic transmission gearbox, the variation of one parameter can result in different system performances due to the strong interdependencies among all components. For given transmission ratios, component lifetimes and safeties, or space restrictions, improvements in efficiency, noise, and weight can be achieved.
| 2018-08-13

Harnessing Reliable Wind Energy with Gearing Solutions

As the wind comes sweeping down the plains of America these days, it passes through fields of wind turbines. As the energy market turns towards ren...
| 2018-08-08

Thermal Growth Issues and Solutions for Shaft Couplings

Nick Agius, National Rotating Equipment/ACHE Product Specialist, Motion Canada I have been researching “Thermal Growth” issues for deca...
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2018-08-01

Set It and Forget It

Pneumatics Ensures Reliability in Packaging Application
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2018-08-01

The Clean Cut

JBT Corporation benefits from Kollmorgen Hygienic motor design in food and beverage application.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2018-08-01

Food & Beverage Industry Product Round-Up

Some of the latest power transmission and mechanical motion products specifically designed for food and beverage applications.
| 2018-07-26

Bearing Sourcing: Investigate Here

Steve Katz, president, Emerson Bearing Boston One significant and challenging issue that MROs and OEMs face is premature bearing failure in equi...
| 2018-07-20

ABM Supplies AC Induction Motors for Autonomous Mobility

NAVYA has been developing innovative, environmentally-friendly, sustainable mobility solutions since 2014. The company, based in Villeurbanne, Lyon...
| 2018-07-16

Evolution of Cooling Tower Gearboxes

Written by: Jerome Jennings, global product manager, SPX Cooling Technologies, Inc. Industries that require process heat rejection often use fie...
PRODUCT NEWS | 2018-06-01

Product News

Elastic housing deformation by MESYS, plus new motors, actuators, gear drives and more.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2018-06-01

A Mechanical Healthcare Plan

Motor Operation Gets Big Boost from Smart Technology (Here's How to Take Advantage)
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2018-06-01

Machine Parts No Longer in Production

Good machinery can last a lifetime. But, replacement parts for older equipment may be near impossible to find. So, what do you do when you're looking to replace hard-to-find bearings and related parts for older machines?
| 2018-05-30

Machine Parts No Longer in Production? Solutions for Hard-to-Find Bearings and Parts

Written By: Steve Katz, President, Emerson Bearing Boston Good machinery can last a lifetime. But, replacement parts for older equipment may be ...
| 2018-05-22

Automotive: On the Road to Disruptive Technology

The future of the automotive industry looks complicated. Urbanization, energy regulations, the electrification of vehicles, autonomous driving and ...
| 2018-05-11

Custom Machine and Tool Co., Inc. Bolsters Accuracy and Efficiency for Vande Berg Scales

Written by: Charlotte R. Stevens, Marketing Manager at Custom Machine and Tool Co., Inc. If you can find that magic bullet that will reduce the ...
| 2018-04-30

What is a Voice Coil Actuator?

A voice coil actuator, also known as a non-commutated DC linear actuator, is a type of direct drive linear motor. The name “voice coil” comes from ...
GEAR TALK WITH CHUCK | 2018-04-25

The Long and Short of It

One of the problems with “tribal knowledge” is that the terminology can confuse those who are not fully immersed in that community. I have lost ...

| 2018-04-19

The Gizmo Society

It is hard these days to find any device that is not IoT-compatible or WiFi-connected. I recently had a new well pump installed that requires an iP...
| 2018-04-12

Five Initiatives to Develop and Keep Workforce Talent

Written by Peter Feil, vice president, general manager at Stober Drives, Inc. The bright lights of the big city can make finding skilled workers...
| 2018-04-02

Performance Demands of Motion Control Applications

The following looks at the latest motion control products and technologies from Rockwell Automation, Power Jack Motion, B&R Automation and Beck...
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2018-04-01

Making the Smart Choice in PT Components

The Latest Clutch & Brake Technology Looks at Reliability, Cost and Design Specifications.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2018-04-01

Where We Stand

The automotive industry is on the precipice of a shift. Here's what the future looks like and what you need to know to prepare for it.
EVENTS | 2018-04-01

The One-Stop Shop for Automatic, HEV and EV Drives

CTI Symposium USA Examines North American Transmission Market Strategies
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2018-04-01

Baldor Motor Basics: Part 12

The final installment in our Baldor Motor Basics series covers 50 Hz requirements, as well as motors wet or damp environments.
EVENTS | 2018-04-01

Momentum in Wind Power

Coming off of a stellar 2017 for the wind power industry, Wind Power 2018 is all about carrying that momentum forward.
POWER PLAY | 2018-04-01

It's a Jungle Out There

Harsh environments and saltwater properties tend to make it difficult for motors, gearboxes and engines to perform consistently at a high level.
| 2018-03-20

Fish Farming Company Saves Energy with Motor Upgrade

A Denmark-based specialist in aquafeed production has replaced an aging, damaged DC motor on it...
| 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...
PUBLISHER'S PAGE | 2018-03-01

Smarter Machines Need Smarter Components

The future of motion control is connectivity. Read this issue to learn why.
PRODUCT NEWS | 2018-03-01

Product News

The complete Product News section from the March 2018 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2018-03-01

12 Current Trends in Motion Control

Smart Factory solutions hint at machine design potential in 2018.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2018-03-01

MedAccred Rising to Ubiquity

MedAccred is emulating the Nadcap standard that came before it, and much like its predecessor, is on a sure rise to prominence.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2018-03-01

Mechanical Motion in Tight Spaces

Framo Morat and Dunkermotoren Produce Drive Systems for Automatic Guided Vehicles.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2018-03-01

Design of Plastic Microgear Teeth for Mass Production with High Manufacturing Tolerances for a Medical Device

Microgears for some types of medical technology need to be inexpensively mass produced. But at the same time, they need to be both precise and reliable, even though their design lifetime is relatively short. Here's how microgears were developed for blood glucose measuring devices, insulin pumps for diabetics and other very small devices.
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.
EVENTS | 2018-03-01

The Automated Industrial Community

Hannover Messe 2018 will focus on mobility, integration and collaboration.
| 2018-02-20

Smarter Mechatronics

Mechatronics and the Internet of Things go hand in hand, so it’s no surprise that leading mechatronics companies are coming out with IIoT produ...
| 2018-02-02

Framo Morat and Dunkermotoren Produce Drive Systems for AGVs

Driverless transport systems have proven to be extremel...
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2018-02-01

Efficiency of Design

Energy efficiency is for more than just motors. Here are some mechatronics companies making sure you get more bang for your buck when it comes to your power bill.
| 2018-01-18

Stober Examines Manufacturing Infrastructure Updates

Updating your shop floor with new equipment and personnel is standard trade magazine fodder today—and for obvious reasons. Any feasible upgrades ca...
| 2018-01-08

Gilman Examines an Effective Machine Tool and Spindle Service

If a spindle breaks down, what is your company’s plan of action? Is it the most practical and efficient way to deal with a down spindle? Spindles n...
| 2017-12-11

Consolidation and Innovation

It has been a while, but as many of you know there are too many projects and not enough time. One of my many projects has been to identify new s...
PUBLISHER'S PAGE | 2017-12-01

10 Years and Counting

Just over 10 years ago, we started publishing Power Transmission Engineering, and I'm proud to say we're still going strong.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2017-12-01

CNC System Upgrades

Automated production of large objects such as auto body prototypes, boat hulls and surfboards traditionally requires computerized numerical control (CNC) systems costing nearly a million dollars. Thomson Cuts Costs and Production Time for Autoscale Inc.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2017-12-01

Force Control Assists in Helicopter Transmission Overhaul

Oil shear brake technology is the key to quick and reliable test stand development.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2017-12-01

Baldor Motor Basics - Part 9

Amps, Watts, Power Factor and Efficiency; Approximate Load Data from Amperage Readings; Power Factor Correction on Single-Induction Motors.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2017-12-01

Vibration and Operational Characteristics of a Composite-Steel (Hybrid) Gear

Free vibration and dynamic operation testing of hybrid gears at NASA Glenn Spur Gear Fatigue Test Facility; hybrid gears are compared to their steel counterparts.
| 2017-11-28

A Look at Belt, Chain and Gear Drive Technology

By Jack Warner The need for producing more energy increases with our rising need for commercial, industrial, and residential space. In North Ame...
| 2017-11-16

Force Control Brakes Assist in Helicopter Transmission Overhaul

Professional Aircraft Accessories, a Greenwich AeroGroup company based in Titusville, Florida, is a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Europ...
| 2017-11-14

Freudenberg Examines Sealing Requirements for Heavy-Duty Equipment

The seals and the hydraulic systems of any piece of mining, construction, agricultural or other heavy industry equipment like
| 2017-11-13

Amsted Rail Taps Jorgensen for Conveyor Belt Upgrades

In 2014 Amsted Rail, a leading manufacturer of railroad car components and systems in Petersburg, Virginia, realized their existing chip conveyors ...
| 2017-10-06

Coating Factory Utilizes Self-Lubricating Bearings

Contributed by: VescoPlastics Dam linings, billboards, butchery aprons, upholstery materials, place mats, tents, tarpaulins, and jumping castle ...
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2017-10-01

Familiar Goals, New Solutions

Gearmotor manufacturers find new ways to push the envelope. (With Sidebar on new alternative to planetary gearboxes)
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2017-10-01

U.S. Wind Power Blowing Hot as New Installations Flourish

A look at recent installations, plus interviews with some wind industry insiders.
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.
| 2017-09-07

Meter Bearings Upgrades System Analytics

A global organization, Meter Bearings comprises offices and production centers in China, Germany, and the United States, with their headquarters in...
| 2017-09-06

Just Keep Swimming

How do you keep animatronic characters moving in chemically-treated water? This was the engineering challenge Disneyland faced with the colorful an...
| 2017-09-05

Buying Gear Drives? Try Gear Expo

Gear Expo is right around the corner, and that means that pretty soon all things gearing will be squarely in the spotlight. Custom gear manufacturi...
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2017-09-01

Gear Expo 2017 Showstoppers

This special advertising section highlights exhibitors from Gear Expo 2017 and ASM Heat Treat 2017.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2017-09-01

Motors and Mechatronics - Moving to a Higher Plane

This is an article about motors - preventive motor maintenance, actually. And something else - mechatronics. In today's high-tech manufacturing and industrial use environments, it is near impossible to talk about equally complex motor maintenance and repair-or-replace protocols without it.
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2017-09-01

Industry News

The complete Industry News section from the September 2017 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
| 2017-08-29

Siemens Works with DMDII to Incorporate IIoT

Siemens has become DMDII’s largest partner, and the two companies are going full steam ahead on developing newer and bolder IIoT technology.
| 2017-08-14

Root Cause Analysis: On the Rails

When Iarnród Éireann Irish Rail (the national railway operator of Ireland), started seeing an increasing number of failures of bearings in a partic...
| 2017-08-04

Engineering the New York Wheel

Dana Incorporated recently announced that it is providing driveshaft assemblies and gearboxes for the New York Wheel – which will be the world's ta...
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2017-08-01

Tailor-Made

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

Coupling Connection

Couplings and harsh environment use
EVENTS | 2017-08-01

Pack Expo: The Push to Automation

With Pack Expo Las Vegas around the corner, we took a look at the state of the packaging industry today to see what you can expect at the show. The answer is more automation.
REVOLUTIONS | 2017-08-01

PTE Bearing Basics and Innovations

Power Transmission Engineering has your in-depth knowledge and expertise covered in terms of bearings, motors, drives, gears and motion control technologies. Here are some of the latest articles on bearing innovations:

| 2017-07-13

Full Cinematic Immersion

“For your safety, please keep your hands, arms and legs inside the vehicle at all times.” We’ve heard this statement countless times at amusemen...
| 2017-07-10

Nordex Teams with University of Hartford on Prosthetics for Kids Project

Charles Paulsen, associate director of the Mechanical and Manufacturing Technologies for Energy and Sustainability (MET2) program at the Connecticu...
| 2017-06-20

The Times, They Are Changing

Occasionally in conversation you make a reference to technology and then realize that you are old. I could talk about the first microprocessors, va...
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2017-06-19

What's New in Belt and Chain Technology?

Here are the latest product and industry news items involving belts and chains in the power transmission market. Please visit
PUBLISHER'S PAGE | 2017-06-01

Moving in the Right Direction

Over the past several months, members of our staff have traveled quite a bit, and we've had a lot of opportunities to gauge their confidence. And while nobody is overwhelmingly enthusiastic - nobody has told us this is their best year ever - almost everyone seems at least content with the stability that slow and steady growth provides.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2017-06-01

Miniature Motion Solutions

Motor technology thrives in aerospace/defense applications.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2017-06-01

Baldor Basics: Applications

Fans, blowers and other funny loads are addressend, along with RMS Horsepower loading.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2017-06-01

Vibration Analysis Goes Mainstream

Using vibration analysis to evaluate machine health has many benefits, and with advances in sensor, recording, and analysis technology, vibration analysis is now within the reach of even small organizations.
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2017-06-01

Industry News

The complete Industry News section from the June 2017 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
| 2017-05-23

There Must Be 50 Ways to Reduce a Duty Cycle (Part 2)

Welcome to Part 2 of our duty cycle journey. In the first part, we reviewed how to take a duty cycle or one block of a duty cycle and reduce it to ...
| 2017-05-09

Hannover Messe: A New Perspective in Manufacturing

The rumors are absolutely true. The factory floor is changing at an incredible pace and the digitalization of manufacturing systems (Big data, Indu...
| 2017-05-08

There Must Be 50 Ways to Reduce a Duty Cycle

Man, oh man — 2017 is going to be one for the record books! My wife and I recently had the 3rd and FINAL installment of the Parker clan. A healthy ...
| 2017-04-17

Integrated Industry at Hannover 2017

Hannover Messe 2017 will demonstrate how companies with limited resources can pinpoint and harness the power of digitalization. This year's trade f...
| 2017-04-04

Automate/Promat: Live From the Show

Automate 2017 offers the full spectrum of automation technologies and solutions, from traditional industrial applications to cutting edge new techn...
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2017-04-01

Meet Norm Parker - Bearings Blogger

In case you missed them, following are three recent blog postings by our popular PTE bearings blogger - Norm Parker. We also felt that, should you not be a blog follower, this would be a good way to introduce you to Norm's bearings wisdom. Parker is currently the global senior specialist/roller bearings at Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA).
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2017-04-01

Controlling Backlash in Mammography Systems

Medical imaging equipment, water handling systems, conveyors, robotic systems and rotary and linear actuators are among the many devices that may be fitted with electric friction brakes to hold their loads in place when the power is off or disrupted.
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2017-04-01

Industry News

Corporate and personnel announcements from the April 2017 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
EVENTS | 2017-04-01

Doubling Down and Forging Ahead

After getting positive feedback on changes made to the show last year, AWEA Wind Power is doubling down and taking their ongoing transformation even further.
POWER PLAY | 2017-04-01

Battle Bots - Victorian Edition

Airships, gears, robots, steam power and buzzer-beating theatrics highlight the 2017 FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics Competition known as FIRST Steamworks.
| 2017-03-14

Innovations at IFPE 2017

From March 7 -11, suppliers, engineers, manufacturers and service providers representing off-highway, construction, factory automation, power trans...
| 2017-03-06

Servo Loop Tuning: A Practical Approach

Although servomotors have an unquestionable performance capability, the final performance is mostly determined by the servo loop tuning. Servomo...
PRODUCT NEWS | 2017-03-01

Product News

The complete Product News section from the March 2017 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2017-03-01

Saving Time with Auto-Tuning Drives

If there are two things that are in tight supply in the industry, it's time and talent. Manufacturers are always pressured to do more faster, and the industry is producing fewer experts to help them do it, so the industry's had to get crafty and find what time-cutting procedures they can.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2017-03-01

Devising New Devices

Medical Device Industry Continues to Grow and Innovate
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2017-03-01

Industry News

The complete Industry News section from the March 2017 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
EVENTS | 2017-03-01

Automate 2017 Highlights Solution Providers and Integrators

Automate 2017 (April 3-6) will showcase the full spectrum of automation technologies and solutions, from traditional industrial applications to cutting edge new technologies.
POWER PLAY | 2017-03-01

Your Robotic Chariot Awaits

Furrion is developing a mech in the hopes of launching racing into realms so far only explored by science fiction.
| 2017-02-28

When Things Get Hot

Looking at recent inquiries, there appears to be a growing demand for motors that can operate in high-temperature environments. Although they we...
| 2017-02-21

Avoiding Bearings "Made in Wherever"

You can always tell when times are good in the automotive market due to the flurry of acquisitions, mergers and divestitures. As we are coming off ...
PUBLISHER'S PAGE | 2017-02-01

The Big Picture

When you work day-in and day-out with components like gears, bearings or electric motors, for example, it's easy to forget that those components are always part of a much bigger system.
PRODUCT NEWS | 2017-02-01

Product News

The complete Product News section from the February 2017 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2017-02-01

Changing Technologies, Changing Perspectives

A Conversation with Jeff Hemphill, CTO at Schaeffler Group USA Inc about mechatronic solutions and the electric vehicles of tomorrow.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2017-02-01

Mechatronics: Gaining Control and Applications

"New" Technology Turning Heads and Profits.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2017-02-01

Lightweight, Highly Efficient Drive System

This paper presents a joint project conducted by Ashwoods Electric Motors and Oerlikon Fairfield that uses planetary drives with an integrated electric motor. Current solutions used in production of off-highway vehicles rely upon large, heavy and inefficient brushed DC or induction motors, coupled to a planetary gearbox. This presents a number of challenges to the vehicle designers such as: limited vehicle range, limited space around the motor/drivetrain, and motor durability. The proposed integrated system utilizes an Oerlikon Fairfield Torque Hub, widely used in off-highway vehicles, and the Ashwoods first-to-market, interior permanent magnet motor. How these products are integrated, i.e. incorporating a brake solution, represents a market-changing product. Using interior permanent magnet (IPM) technology in the motor design means the motor can be up to 70% lighter, 70% smaller and 20% more efficient than traditional motors used in off-highway traction applications.
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2017-02-01

Industry News

The complete Industry News section from the February 2017 issue of PTE.
POWER PLAY | 2017-02-01

Now That Is Smart Manufacturing!

A machine called Sub1 Reloaded solved a Rubik's Cube in 637 thousandths of a second in Munich.
| 2017-01-30

Changing Technologies, Changing Perspectives

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

| 2017-01-17

The Latest in Gearmotors

Nord Clincher Gear Units Maintain Equipment in Severe Applications
| 2017-01-16

Demystifying Bearing Fit Practices

Happy New Year! I hope everyone had a little time off over the holidays. We’re just getting into Michigan’s bi-polar winter season where leather co...
| 2016-12-08

He’s Back!

  Let’s welcome back Norm Parker — our bearings specialist blogger and contributing editor of bearings-based artic...
PRODUCT NEWS | 2016-12-01

Product News

News about the most recent products to hit the market.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2016-12-01

In Transit

The average travel time to work in the United States is 25.4 minutes, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This number is probably low if you factor in a traffic accident in New York City, light rain in Chicago or it's simply Tuesday in Los Angeles. It's safe to say 25.4 turns into 45 minutes in many areas of the country at seven o'clock in the morning.
FIELD NOTES | 2016-12-01

Bearing Lubricant Solution

A Chicago-area bakery was replacing the tray support bearings in its ovens on a reactionary basis. Their weekly inspection cycle was resulting in two mechanics spending an average of 20 labor hours per week to replace failed bearings. The premature bearing failures were caused by a combination of the high heat and humidity in the ovens, resulting in lubrication failure and contamination. When BDI was asked to recommend a solution, the bakery was averaging one month of bearing life in this application.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2016-12-01

Eight Reasons to Use Air Bearings Over Mechanical Bearings

Mechanical guiding systems, such as crossedroller bearings, work well for most motion control applications; however, when precision, angular repeatability, and geometric performance (runout, straightness) are critical or where submicron bearing rumble is problematic, air bearings are recommended. An air-bearing stage is a rotary or linear positioner that floats on a cushion of air, using one of several preload mechanisms, nearly eliminating mechanical contact and thus wear, friction, and hysteresis effects. Here are eight reasons why an air-bearing stage might be the right choice for your application:
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2016-12-01

Industry News

News from around the industry.
| 2016-11-29

A Virtual Reality

Two weeks ago I was invited to speak at Infolytica’s Engage 2016 conference (infolyticaengage.com). The company makes tools for f...
| 2016-11-29

SPS IPC Drives 2016 Review

Matthew Jaster, Senior Editor                 SPS IPC Drives 2016 took place November 22-24 in Nuremberg, G...
| 2016-11-08

Industrial Innovation at Pack Expo 2016

Matthew Jaster, Senior Editor A record-setting Pack Expo/Pharma Expo is expected to bring in 50,000 attendees and more than 2,5...
| 2016-10-10

Factoring In the Power Factor

Recently our customers have indicated a great concern over power factors when starting new development projects for higher-efficiency motors. Wh...
| 2016-10-10

Klüber Lubrication Offers Specialty Lubricants for Open Drives and Gears Keeping Mineral Processing Plants Up and Running

Authors:  Daniel A. Narnhammer, Head of Global Competence Center Mining at Klüber Lubrication NA LP Justin Koozer, Cement and...
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2016-10-01

Pack Expo 2016

Pack Expo takes place November 6-9 at McCormick Place in Chicago. With 2,100 exhibitors, it’s the world’s largest most comprehensive processing and packaging trade show in 2016.
ASK THE EXPERT | 2016-10-01

Determining Diametral Pitch, Center Distance

I need help determining the diametral pitch needed to achieve the closest center-to-center distance for 2 spur gears. The 1st gear is a 34-tooth and the 2nd gear is a 28-tooth. The center-to-center distance between the gears needs to be as close to 2 1/8" as possible.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2016-10-01

ISO 281:2007 - Caveat Emptor

I was invited by Tom Astrene of TLT to write a response to the July 2010 TLT article (Ref. 1). My rebuttal — “In Search of a Fatigue Limit: A Critique of ISO Standard 281:2007” — was published in Tribology and Lubrication Engineering, TLT, August 2010 edition (Ref. 10). While this article is also available online, I will attempt to summarize the essence of my response.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2016-10-01

How Does An Electric Motor Work

If you’re an electrical engineer you know how an electric motor works; if you aren’t, it can be extremely confusing. Therefore, here’s the simplified explanation (or the “how an electric motor works for dummies” version) of how a four-pole, three-phase AC induction motor works in a car.
PRODUCT NEWS | 2016-09-01

Product News

News about recent products in the Industry
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2016-09-01

The Brave New World of Industrial Automation

One of the best things about being a journalist — whether for example it be reporting on manufacturing, politics, show business, or anything else — is being paid to “go to school” and learning about any number of things that you were perhaps ignorant of at the outset.
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.
BEARING BRIEFS | 2016-09-01

Proper Handling of Bearings

Rolling-element bearings are high-precision components that need to be stored and handled carefully to perform as designed. Proper storage and handling of a bearing before, during and after installation is important because once debris enters a bearing, it reduces the life.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2016-09-01

Minimum Design Speed Considerations for Sleevoil Bearings for Industrial Fan Applications

Slow speed operation of fan systems within the air handling industry is generally performed due to two reasons: a coast down operation is required for hot (induced draft) fans to cool down before shutdown (often by using a turning gear), and operational efficiency improvements can be achieved during non-peak periods by slow speed operation using a VFD. In either case, when these fans are supported by hydrodynamic bearings, it is the oil film thickness developed from the bearing-shaft interaction that limits the minimum speed that can be maintained without causing premature wear and bearing failure. This paper will present a brief overview of lubrication theory and critical design parameters to achieve slow speed operation.
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2016-09-01

Industry News

Latest News from around the Industry
POWER PLAY | 2016-09-01

Mind Sport

Here’s what we know about Tremont, Illinois: It’s a small village in Tazewell County, (population 2,400+), holds an annual summer turkey festival (quite popular) and the courthouse is a famous historic site where politician James Shields challenged an “up-and-coming” lawyer named Abraham Lincoln to a duel with cavalry broad swords (they showed up, but the duel never materialized). In 2016, you can add FIRST Robotics Competition World Champion to the village’s rather eccentric list of accomplishments.
| 2016-08-25

Custom or Off-the-Shelf?

  Today I want to follow up on a discussion of an often debated topic: do you want a custom motor or should you buy a standard (stock) moto...
| 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...
PUBLISHER'S PAGE | 2016-08-01

Energized

Energy is the worldwide addiction of the human race. We can’t live without it, and no matter how much we try to conserve it, our appetite is insatiable.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2016-08-01

Modular Control Systems for Wind Energy

For a 5-megawatt wind turbine prototype, aerodyn employs the latest control and software technologies, including a comprehensive PC-based control solution and the new modular TwinCAT Wind Framework. The TwinCAT Wind Framework features the latest software engineering and Big Data applications to extend current Industry 4.0 concepts to the wind energy industry. The modular software supports, for example, the direct provision of sensor data to the operator’s database, and in general enables the easy adaption of the wind turbine operation management to future requirements.
BEARING BRIEFS | 2016-08-01

Analyzing Wind Power

Wind is a form of solar energy. Winds are caused by the uneven heating of the atmosphere by the sun, the irregularities of the earth’s surface, and rotation of the earth. Wind Turbines convert the kinetic energy in wind into mechanical power.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2016-08-01

IMTS 2016 Booth Preview

A nose-in-the-tent peek at the booths featuring mechanical motion components.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2016-08-01

FZG Gearboxes Lubricated with Different Formulations of Polyalphaolefin Wind Turbine Gear Oils

In order to analyze the different gear oils suitable for the lubrication of wind turbine gearboxes, five fully formulated ISO VG 320 gear oils were selected. In between the selected gear oils, four PAO base oils can be found: PAOR, PAOM, PAOC and PAOX. A mineral-based oil (MINR) was also included as reference.
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2016-08-01

Industry news

News from around the Industry
| 2016-07-25

Are We Open to Change?

  This post will be a little different than normal as it does not address a specific technical issue but rather the industry’s “state of mi...
| 2016-07-11

Mind Sport

Stronghold Competition Puts the Fun in FIRST Robotics   Matthew Jaster, Senior Editor Here’s what we know about Tremont, Illinois: I...
| 2016-06-14

Mobility for Tomorrow

  CTI Symposium USA Examines Global Transmission Market Matthew Jaster, Senior Editor It began with the dinosaurs. There wa...
| 2016-06-14

The Evolution of Connectivity

  SKF Helps Change the Way We Work and Interact in Manufacturing Today Matthew Jaster, Senior Editor   Mark Hinck...
| 2016-06-03

The Driving Force

In “the good old days” we simply connected a motor to the power lines and that created motion — but those days are disappearing fast. Almost all mo...
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2016-06-01

Alternative to Ni-Bearing Carburizing Steels

Standard carburizing steel 18CrNiMo7-6 is often used when high hardenability is required, but due to its highly fluctuating price, there has always been an incentive to develop Ni-free steel grades. The 23MnCrMo5-5-2 — or Jomasco 23mod — has been developed for this purpose. But to ensure smooth substitution within existing production lines, a number of points must be addressed: first, checking the response to carburizing treatments; and second, having similar mechanical properties with identical tooth root bending performance on gears. The latter is the purpose of this paper.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2016-06-01

Can You Develop Your Own Custom Motor-and-Motion System

In this century’s complex, ever- changing world of manufacturing, such capabilities as hardware and software expertise, effective location and distribution, business savvy and yes, even luck, are some of the cardinal requirements for running a successful business.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2016-06-01

Bringing Nadcap to the Medical Industry

The medical device industry today has numerous standards and regulations to follow, most notable amongst them being ISO 9001 and ISO 13485. However, these requirements have a shared blind spot: critical processes (heat treating, sterilization, etc.). In the medical industry, all of the standards and audits suppliers need to adhere to focus on general system quality. If the critical processes aren’t being looked at equipment can still fail because of poor craftsmanship.
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2016-06-01

Industry News

News from around the industry
| 2016-05-06

The Reluctance Force We Are Reluctant to Use

Almost daily I’m asked about the switched reluctance motor (SRM) — a motor that was invented more than 100 years ago. But only in the 1980s did it ...
PUBLISHER'S PAGE | 2016-04-01

He Shoots, He Scores!

There’s nothing quite as satisfying as scoring a goal. Here at Power Transmission Engineering, our goal is to provide you with as much relevant educational and technical material as possible, and every issue we strive to cover the subjects of power transmission and motion control from as many different angles as possible, so that no matter your job title, and no matter your industry, if gears, bearings, motors and related components are important to you, we’ve got you covered.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2016-04-01

Nasa Glenn Research Center - A Look Back

In 1941, the federal Aircraft Engine Research Laboratory set up shop in Cleveland, Ohio. This year, and several name changes later, what is now the NASA Glenn Research Center celebrates its 75th anniversary. As part of the year-long festivities, Glenn’s adjunct Lewis Field main campus will be open to the public May 21 and 22, and Plum Brook Station in Sandusky, Ohio will hold its open house June 11 and 12.
EVENTS | 2016-04-01

Plan Accordingly

Three upcoming shows cater to different areas of power transmission components and motion control technologies, including Windpower 2016, Powdermet 2016 and the Sensors Expo & Conference. All three exhibitions will offer the latest products, solutions and latest real world applications dedicated to wind energy, powder metal technologies and sensors. Here’s a quick rundown:
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2016-03-01

The Test Run

Modeling and simulation is a key driver of innovation. Whether it’s general manufacturing, consumer goods or life sciences, the ability to realistically model and simulate the response of parts, sub-systems and complete assemblies to increase accuracy and repeatability is vital in today’s analytical world.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2016-03-01

Slicing Downtime

An independent cheese packager in central Wisconsin packages millions of pounds of cheese every year. Whether shredded, sliced, crumbled or waxed, each package is designed specifically for a customer’s unique needs. As a “toll processor,” production line speed is critical to productivity as well as profitability.
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 | 2016-03-01

Engineering Showcase 2016

One of our goals at Power Transmission Engineering is to help you understand, identify and select the best technology for your mechanical power transmission or motion control applications. With every project, you have to decide which components to use, and which suppliers, based on functionality, quality and price. We aim to help you make those decisions informed by providing the latest information on current technology, especially when it comes to mechanical components.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2016-03-01

Gear Design Effects on Performance of High-Speed Helical Geartrains as Used in Aerospace Drive Systems

The performance of high-speed helical geartrains is of particular importance for tiltrotor aircraft drive systems. These drive systems are used to provide speed reduction/torque multiplication from the gas turbine output shaft and provide the necessary offset between these parallel shafts in the aircraft. Four different design configurations have been tested in the NASA Glenn Research Center, High-Speed Helical Geartrain Test Facility. The design configurations included the current aircraft design, current design with isotropic superfinished gear surfaces, double-helical design (inward and outward pumping), increased pitch (finer teeth), and an increased helix angle. All designs were tested at multiple input shaft speeds (up to 15,000 rpm) and applied power (up to 5,000 hp). Also two lubrication, system-related, variables were tested: oil inlet temperature (160–250° F) and lubricating jet pressure (60–80 psig). Experimental data recorded from these tests included power loss of the helical system under study, the temperature increase of the lubricant from inlet to outlet of the drive system and fling-off temperatures (radially and axially). Also, all gear systems were tested with and without shrouds around the gears.
MARKET UPDATE | 2016-03-01

Global Industrial Outlook: Reality Sinks In

Our “Batten Down The Hatches” call proved timely as the market sold off by about (10 percent) before staging a partial recovery
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2016-03-01

Industry News

News from around the industry
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.
MARKET UPDATE | 2016-02-01

Global Industrial Outlook: Batten Down the Hatches

Third-quarter earnings confirmed the worst-case scenario — plunging oil prices are whacking almost the entire industrial sector. The theme is hardly new, as the pattern of our headlines has revealed over the past fifteen or so months:
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2016-02-01

Industry News

Latest news from around the Industry
POWER PLAY | 2016-02-01

Gyroscopes in Spaaaace!

Moving around in open space is a cautious endeavor. Without the luxury of gravity, the slightest push can send you twirling in circles or, worse, tumbling off into the unknown. Every motion must be thought out and deliberate, all the more so because our bodies take that luxury into account.
PRODUCT NEWS | 2016-02-01

Product News

Latest information about upcoming products.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2016-02-01

Mix and Match Mechatronics

Mechatronics simplifies traditional engineering concepts across most industrial segments. By combining mechanical, electrical and computer technology into a single, integrated solution, products become systems that are more efficient, reduce operator error and cost less to manufacture.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2015-12-01

Global Industrial Outlook: Oil Slick Cascading Through Sector

Third-quarter earnings are confirming the worst-case scenario, i.e. — not only are energy related end markets in a downturn, but conditions continue to worsen.
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2015-12-01

Industry News

News from around the industry
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.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2015-10-01

Space Shuttle Rudder-Speed Brake Actuator

The U.S. Space Shuttle fleet was originally intended to have a life of 100 flights for each vehicle, lasting over a 10-year period, with minimal scheduled maintenance or inspection. The first space shuttle flight was that of the Space Shuttle Columbia (OV-102), launched April 12, 1981. The disaster that destroyed Columbia occurred on its 28th flight, February 1, 2003, nearly 22 years after its first launch.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2015-10-01

Is Splash Lubrication Compatible with Efficient Gear Units for High-Speed Applications

A thermo-mechanical model of a splash lubricated one-stage gear unit is presented. This system corresponds to a first step towards the design of a hybrid vehicle gearbox that can operate up to 40,000 rpm on its primary shaft. The numerical model is based on the thermal network method and takes into account power losses due to teeth friction, rolling-elements bearings and oil churning. Some calculations underline that oil churning causes a high amount of power loss. A simple method to reduce this source of power losses is presented, and its influence on the gear unit efficiency and its thermal capacity is computed.
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2015-10-01

Industry News

News From the gear Industry
| 2015-09-29

Welcome Back!

Last week in our bearing shaft and housing fit discussion, we covered the IT chart — along with the shaft and housing charts — just to understand t...
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2015-09-01

Industry News

News From Around the Gear Industry
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2015-08-01

Baby Steps in Wind Energy

The Department of Energy estimates that 4 million megawatts of potential power—four times the amount all U.S. power plants combined currently produce—exists in offshore wind energy. Construction of America’s first offshore wind turbines began in July. The wind farm, which is being constructed off the coast of Block Island, RI, will consist of five turbines. Together, they will produce 30 MW.
EVENTS | 2015-08-01

Calendar

Calendar of upcoming events
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2015-08-01

Belts Vs. Couplings

rotary-type blowers? Examples: for motor KW; RPM; temperature; pressure production; lifetime; etc. In other words, how do I choose between belts or couplings?
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2015-08-01

Are You Not Entertained

Like Moses descending from Mount Sinai toting a couple of stone tablets, Kate Achelpohl, director of member communications at PMMI and herald of all things Pack Expo, came hither proclaiming the four commandments of the forthcoming show:
| 2015-07-31

Vehicle Outlook

I don’t know about you, but the recession of 2008-2010 sticks in my mind like a bad penny. Since that time, I am never able to simply say ...
POWER PLAY | 2015-06-01

Surviving the Robot Revolution

It had no arms or legs to speak of; no fleshy, meaty exterior or squishy insides; no heart, no brain, no soul. It was just a protracted steel body, long and spindly, a rectangular “head” at the end, and one glowing sensor. It wasn’t alive. It wasn’t sentient. It was a robot.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2015-06-01

When it Comes to Mining, Bigger is Best

One of the key challenges in the mining industry today is maintaining throughput in the face of ore grade quality that has declined by 40 percent in the last decade.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2015-06-01

Transmissions in Transition

Experts gathered at the 9th CTI Symposium to discuss the challenges of reducing noise, improving energy efficiency and meeting the changing demands of the marketplace
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2015-06-01

Dont Tap the Glass

Behind a thick sheet of unblemished glass that stretches from wall-to-wall, ceilingto- floor at Delta Gear, just south of a shop lined with ultramodern grinding machines whirring away, is Scott Sakuta’s aquarium.
| 2015-05-27

Welded vs. Bolted Ring Gears

There is often a lively debate early in a program when we are discussing the pros and cons of laser welded ring gears vs. bolted ring gears. Just a...
PRODUCT NEWS | 2015-04-01

Product News

Latest Products
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.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2015-04-01

Mathematical Modeling for the Design of Spiroid, Helical, Spiral Bevel and Worm Gears

Spiroid and worm gears have superior advantages for hightorque and miniaturization applications. And for this reason they are particularly preferred in aerospace, robotic and medical applications. They are typically manufactured by hobbing technology, a process with a typical overall lead time of 4 to 14 weeks.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2015-04-01

Wind Pushing Future of Mechanical Components

After a sluggish 2013, annual installations of new wind turbines grew by 44% in 2014, according to the Global Wind Energy Council. And while much of that growth has been in Asia— particularly China, which now leads the world with 114 GW of installed capacity—the USA, Europe, and the rest of the world expect steady growth for the next couple of years as well (Fig. 1).
| 2015-03-04

Aluminum Housing Series: Preload Change Due to Bearing Span Change with Temperature.

Previously we discussed how to determine your cup interference fit based on thermal expectations. Then we discussed how the bearing cup contracts a...
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2015-03-01

INDUSTRY NEWS

News From the Industry
POWER PLAY | 2015-03-01

3-D PRINTING IS HERE!

Necessity is the Mother of Invention, goes the bromide, but this 3-D printing thing is taking manufacturing to an entirely different — yes — dimension.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2015-03-01

The Modified Life Rating of Rolling Bearings: A Criterion for Gearbox Design and Reliability Optimization

Engineers typically learn that the bearing L10 life can be estimated using the so called “C/P method” — or the “basic rating life” of the bearing, a method rooted in the 1940s. Major developments have since led to the “modified rating life,” released in ISO 281:2007, which includes the aiso life modification factor. In this paper a succession of equations used for bearing life ratings are reviewed, and current bearing life rating practices are discussed in detail. It is shown that — despite the introduction more than 30 years ago of the adjustment factor of the basic rating life, and the standardization in 2007 of the aiso modification factor — use of these improved calculation methods are not practiced by all engineers. Indeed — many continue referring to the old model as a way of seeking compliance with existing, established practices.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2015-03-01

3-D Printing and Plastic Gears

Regarding 3-D printing of gears and machine tools, etc. — does plastic gearing have a future in 3-D printing/additive manufacturing?
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2015-03-01

Engineering Showcase 2015

One of our goals at Power Transmission Engineering is to help you understand, identify and select the best technology for your mechanical power transmission or motion control applications. With every project, you have to decide which components to use, and which suppliers, based on functionality, quality and price. We aim to help you make those decisions informed by providing the latest information on current technology, especially when it comes to mechanical components.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2015-03-01

Diagnosing the Health of Medical Motors

John Morehead, national sales manager of Crouzet Motors (Vista, CA), was bunkered down in his office in Palatine, IL surrounded at all points by ankle-deep snow from an unfortunately terrible Chicago’s winter night.
| 2015-02-20

Aluminum Housing Series: Cup Distortion after Installation

The next step in our aluminum housing series is to determine where the cup interference is going. If we press a cup with 100µm interference into a ...
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2015-02-04

Treat Your Suppliers Well

I recently had a supplier give me a call to let me know that we had some outdated paperwork floating around that was going to wind up costing us a ...
PRODUCT NEWS | 2015-02-01

Product News

News from around the Industry
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2015-02-01

Industry News

News from around the Industry
POWER PLAY | 2015-02-01

The Science Fiction Addiction

It seems preposterous in the whimsical, wireless world of today, but in 1977 cinema’s greatest visioneers came together and decided the pinnacle of robotic technology in the future would be a motorized trash can.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2015-02-01

Innovative Design Solves AutomotiveParts Assembly Challenge

Weiss North America, Inc. of Willoughby, OH has designed and produced rotary tables and other components for the automation industry for more than 45 years. When approached by Alpha Integration, Inc. of Murfreesboro, TN, a manufacturer of turnkey automated assembly, vision and testing systems, to provide a reliable turnkey solution for their 6-foot-tall automotive parts assembly machine, Weiss ‘tiered-up’ an innovative chassis and indexing table system solution.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2015-02-01

A Quasar Ride to Automate 2015

Bill Walton – a 7 foot tall anomaly from the annals of basketball history who wears tie-dye shirts, listens to the Grateful Dead and, according to his own outlandish proclamations, hasn’t taken an indoor shower in 35 years – is well-known for looking at average accomplishmentsand being overcome with extreme fits of emotion.
| 2015-01-29

Just How Big Are the Biggest Bearings?

I don’t recall a single bearing class where someone didn’t want to know what the largest bearing ever made was. From my stint as a bearing engineer...
| 2015-01-12

The All New Power Transmission Engineering Blog!

Happy New Year! I am pleased to announce that I will be your new blog writer for PTE. If we haven’t been introduced, my name is Norm Parke...
EVENTS | 2014-12-01

Energy Efficiency, Configurable Solutions Highlight Pack Expo

A wide variety of companies displayed mechanical power transmission and motion control technologies at Pack Expo, held in November in Chicago. The event, which is the largest packaging and processing trade show in North America, attracted more than 48,000 attendees, according to show owner and producer PMMI. The four-day event included 2,352 exhibiting companies, an increase of more than 19 percent from the previous show in 2012.
POWER PLAY | 2014-12-01

The Model T Ford: One Mean Machine

Some of us are old enough to have had say, great-grandparents, for example, who when the occasion arose would casually refer to cars as “machines.” It sounded funny and arcane, and we would snicker under our breath. But of course the laugh was on us; back in the day — 1910s through the 1930s — automobiles were commonly referred to as machines.
EVENTS | 2014-12-01

Motors and Motion Meet in St. Louis

The motors might be small, but the big-brain technology driving these electrical wonders was on full display at the 2014 Small Motor & Motion Association Fall Technical Conference, convened November 4-6 in St. Louis, MO. SMMA, the manufacturing trade association (120 members strong) that tends to the best interests of the electric motor and motion control industries — including manufacturers, suppliers, users, consultants and universities — played gracious host to a wide array of presenters from an equally diverse range of sources — from academia to the federal government. Like gears, motors are most everywhere, as evidenced by SMMA’s membership (consumer-, public interest-, national defense- and commercial-oriented) demographic which includes: appliance; transportation; medical equipment; office automation and computers; aerospace; and industrial automation. The association’s mission: To “serve as the principal voice of the electric motors and drives industry” and to provide a forum to “develop, collect and disseminate technical and management knowledge.”
PRODUCT NEWS | 2014-12-01

Product News

News from the industry about new products.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2014-12-01

The Applications of Bevel Gears

EDITORS’ NOTE: “The Applications of Bevel Gears” is the excerpted third chapter of Dr. Hermann Stadtfeld’s latest book — Gleason Bevel Gear Technology (The Gleason Works, Rochester, New York, USA; All rights reserved. 2014; ISBN 978-0-615-96492-8.), which appears here unabridged through the kind graces of Dr. Stadtfeld and Gleason Corp. Future installments will appear exclusively in Power Transmission Engineering and Gear Technology magazine over the next 12 to 18 months.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2014-10-01

Electric Vehicles Need Quieter Gears

For Mark Findlay of UK specialist driveline consultancy Drive System Design, reducing gear noise to suit the low noise levels in an electric vehicle cabin has meant throwing away the rule book.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2014-10-01

Premature Bearing Failures in Wind Gearboxes and White Etching Cracks

Wind turbine gearboxes are subjected to a wide variety of operating conditions, some of which may push the bearings beyond their limits. Damage may be done to the bearings, resulting in a specific premature failure mode known as white etching cracks (WEC), sometimes called brittle, short-life, early, abnormal or white structured flaking (WSF). Measures to make the bearings more robust in these operating conditions are discussed in this article.
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2014-10-01

Industry News

PERSONNEL CHANGES AND EXPANSION HIGHLIGHT CICERO, ILLINOIS GEAR MANUFACTURER
EVENTS | 2014-09-01

Calendar

The complete technical Calendar from the September 2014 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
POWER PLAY | 2014-09-01

High-Tech Motors Evolving from PM Muck

University lab's motor eliminates pricey rare-earth magnets.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2014-09-01

Full Throttle

The Formula Renault 3.5 is seen as a crucial stepping stone on the way into the premier class, the Formula 1. Ambitious racers do not just bring their talents - they also have highly efficient motors on board to control the throttle of their 530-hp V8 engines.
ASK THE EXPERT | 2014-09-01

TLC Still Needed for New Axles

A reader asks: I have heard that new axles no longer need a break-in period. True or false?
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2014-09-01

Wind Turbine Field and Test Rig Testing as Part of the Design Process for Gearboxes

The growth of worldwide energy consumption and emerging industrial markets demands an increase of renewable energy shares. The price pressure coming from coal, oil, nuclear and natural gas energy - combined with enormous worldwide production capacities for components of wind turbines - make wind energy a highly competitive market. The testing and validation of gearboxes within the test rig and the turbine environment attract a strong focus to the needs of the industry. The following contribution sums up the typical process requirements and provides examples for successful system and component verifications based on field measurements.
PRODUCT NEWS | 2014-09-01

Product News

The complete Product News section from the September 2014 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2014-08-01

Industrial Automation North America and MDA NA at IMTS 2014

It's not a show title that rolls off the tongue, but the Industrial Automation North America and MDA NA @IMTS 2014 show nevertheless may well be one to remember.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2014-08-01

Wall to Wall Technology

With the addition of Industrial Automation North America (IANA) as well as Motion, Drive & Automation North America(MDA NA), IMTS 2014 has greatly expanded its range of manufacturing technology services. These co-located shows complement the metalworking solutions found at IMTS by bringing in key suppliers from around the world.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2014-08-01

Critical Factors for Proper Product Selection and Sizing

"Well begun is half done," a quote that most reference materials attribute to Aristotle, certainly applies when selecting mechanical power transmission products. A selection process that is well thought out at the start can ensure that the product selected will be properly sized and appropriate to the application at hand.
ASK THE EXPERT | 2014-08-01

Choosing the Right Grade - Specifying Stainless Bearing Steel

A reader asks: I've determined that a stainless steel bearing is the best option for my application. I'm being asked to specify the grade of stainless steel in my product design. I'm not sure which grade to select and specify. Can you help?
ASK THE EXPERT | 2014-08-01

Net-Forged Bevel and Transmission Gears

What are the applications for net-forged gears. Are they used outside automotive differentials?
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2014-08-01

Testing of Alternative Spiral Bevel and Hypoid Gear Theory

Following is a presentation of a gear design based upon a theoretically perfect gear technology, for which an overview is offered for consideration. What follows is a report on the design's testing and subsequent manufacture of a hypoid gear pair for a 1999 Ford Mustang.
MARKET UPDATE | 2014-08-01

Das (Human) Kapital

Columnist Brian Langenberg provides a current outlook update, key findings from a recent energy sector conference, and takes another look at education and employment.
PUBLISHER'S PAGE | 2014-06-01

Who Do You Trust?

At the recently held annual meeting of the Bearing Specialists Association, there was a lot of talk about online sales channels and how Internet retailers are changing the way industrial products are researched, sourced and purchased.
EVENTS | 2014-06-01

CTI Symposium Raises the Bar on Transmission Technology

The 8th International CTI Symposium on Automotive Transmissions, HEV and EV Drives took place in Rochester, Michigan from May 12-15. The event kicked off with its popular introductory seminar "Basics and Practice of Automotive Transmissions."
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2014-04-01

Industry News

The complete Industry News section from the April 2014 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2014-04-01

Solar Power Turns a Corner

According to GTM Research and the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), photovoltaic (PV) installations increased 41 percent from 2012 to 2013. Additionally, 410 MW of concentrated solar power came online in 2013. Solar was the second-largest source of new electricity generating capacity in the United States.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2014-04-01

Gear Lubrication: Long-Term Protection for Wind Turbines

The chemical and physical properties of gear oils may change, depending - more or less - upon their formulation and the environmental conditions under which they are used. This is why - after three years of use in a wind turbine - a gear oil was examined to determine if indeed changes were evident and if the protection of the gears and rolling bearings still met the same requirements as would be expected of fresh oil. Our findings revealed that the existing gear oil - as well as its ability to protect the gears and rolling bearings - had degraded very little compared to fresh oil.
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 | 2014-03-01

Investigations of Bearing Failures Associated with White Etching Areas (WEAs) in Wind Turbine Gearboxes

A critical problem for wind turbine gearboxes is failure of rolling element bearings where axial cracks form on the inner rings. This article presents field experience from operating wind turbines that compares the performance of through-hardened and carburized materials. It reveals that through-hardened bearings develop WEA/WECs and fail with axial cracks, whereas carburized bearings do not. The field experience further shows that a carburized bearing with a core having low carbon content, high nickel content, greater compressive residual stresses, and a higher amount of retained austenite provides higher fracture resistance and makes carburized bearings more durable than through-hardened bearings in the wind turbine environment.
PUBLISHER'S PAGE | 2014-03-01

Forward March!

We're pleased to present the first-ever March issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
PRODUCT NEWS | 2014-03-01

Product News

The complete Product News section from the March 2014 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2014-03-01

Engineering Showcase 2014

We are pleased to present our first annual Engineering Showcase, a celebration of some of the leading products and companies in mechanical power transmission. In the pages that follow, you’ll find examples of engineering excellence and technological know-how in the field of gears, drives, couplings, machine parts and other mechanical components.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2014-03-01

Best Practices for Gearbox Assembly and Disassembly

In most applications, gearbox reliability is critical to the productivity of the overall plant operation. So it follows that when industry is looking at the best ways to increase efficiency, reduce downtime, and increase profitability, gearbox performance and reliability are key factors. Designing for repair, and writing effective repair procedures, can speed the service time, and provide a quality refurbishment. The best practices listed in this article are proven, effective methods used to install and remove bearings, seals, gears, couplings and shafts within a gearbox.
POWER PLAY | 2014-02-01

Galactic Housekeeping

With the constant push for sustainable and environmentally friendly procedures on Earth, you'd think we’d apply the same rules high above it.
PUBLISHER'S PAGE | 2014-02-01

Make the Connection

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.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2014-02-01

All for One, One for All

Collaboration moves bearing modeling and simulation software forward
PRODUCT NEWS | 2013-12-01

Product News

The complete Product News section from the December 2013 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2013-12-01

The Workhorse of Industry: The Induction Motor

A brief overview of the induction motor, including the basics of construction, performance and variable speed drives.
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2013-12-01

Industry News

The complete Industry News section from the December 2013 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2013-10-01

Drive and Motor Basics

A discussion of the basics in DC drives, DC motors, AC drives, AC motors and synchronous motors.
EVENTS | 2013-10-01

A Focus on the Future at Pack Expo 2013

More than 27,000 packaging and processing professionals attended Pack Expo 2013 in Las Vegas from September 23–25. In addition to launching new products, creating brand awareness, achieving sustainability goals and generating new business contacts, Pack Expo was an opportunity to engage the next generation of workers in packaging, robotics and processing applications.
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2013-10-01

Industry News

The complete Industry News section from the October 2013 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2013-08-01

Showstoppers - Gear Expo 2013

Our special advertising section featuring Gear Expo exhibitors.
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2013-08-01

Industry News

The complete Industry News section from the August 2013 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
POWER PLAY | 2013-08-01

Seabees

For the Seabees, hazardous construction zones have always been part of the job.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2013-08-01

Medical Motion Control

Controls from Quicksilver help in the design and development of medical rehabilitation equipment originally designed for returning astronauts.
VOICES | 2013-06-01

Predictive Maintenance - There Is an App for That

Implementing a predictive maintenance (PM) program can be tough. Despite its proven success, many companies have been operating the same way for over 50 years and don’t know where to start. Understanding where to start and where to focus is critical. The intention of this article is to give insight to start and sustain an effective program using today’s technology and devices.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2013-06-01

Alloying Strategy Boosts Powertrain Performance

The development of a new, gas-carburized gear steel, necessitated by a customer-driven specification, has not only increased the power density in an existing gearbox design, but has done so without requiring any significant change to production processes or heat treatment equipment.
POWER PLAY | 2013-06-01

You Go, Goldie Girl

New doll and toy set geared for inspiring young engineering misses -- not misters.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2013-04-01

Up in the Air - Aerospace Gears

Volatile aerospace market keeps gear manufacturers guessing.
| 2013-04-01

PT Extras

The latest power transmission videos, articles and updates from online.
POWER PLAY | 2013-04-01

John Oldham: The Coupling Personified

A biographical sketch of John Oldham, inventor of the Oldham coupling.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2013-04-01

Rolling Bearing Steels - A Technical and Historical Perspective, Part 2

This paper is part 2 of 2 in a series that summarizes the chemical, metallurgical and physical aspects of bearing steels and their effect on rolling bearing life and reliability.
PRODUCT NEWS | 2013-02-01

Smart Actuators for Off-Highway

Smart actuators bring big benefits to utility and other off-highway vehicles
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2013-02-01

Gear Design Software

When it comes to gear design software, the learning curve never ends. The leading vendors offer various training programs to keep their users well-informed.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2013-02-01

Traversing Steep Slopes

Hydrostatic drive concept gives LinsiTrak flexibility and versatility.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2013-02-01

Rolling Bearing Steels - A Technical and Historical Perspective - Part 1

This paper summarizes the chemical, metallurgical and physical aspects of bearing steels and their effect on rolling bearing life and reliability.
POWER PLAY | 2013-02-01

Before There Were Bar Cars

The history of railroading is a saga of epic proportions: North meets South; Ocean meets Ocean. Track and trains and the locomotives that power them have long held Americans' fascination and fancy.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2012-12-01

Cruising with Curiosity

Power Transmission Components from Forest City Gear, Kaydon Bearings and Maxon Motors help power NASA's Curiosity Mars Rover.
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2012-12-01

Industry News

The complete Industry News section from the December 2012 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
EVENTS | 2012-12-01

Calendar

The complete Calendar from the December 2012 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
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.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2012-12-01

PTExtras

Take a look at some of the latest videos posted on powertransmission.com, plus the most recent updates to our online buyers guide.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2012-12-01

All About the Cliff

Brian K. Langenberg explains what's likely to happen in the economy over the coming months.
PRODUCT NEWS | 2012-12-01

Product News

The complete Product News section from the December 2012 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2012-12-01

Effective Management Can Reduce Energy Costs Millwide

It’s as true in pulp and paper as it is in many other industries: the continued rise in energy prices has put a squeeze on margin and profits. Papermakers know that to maintain margin, they must effectively manage their energy costs.
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2012-10-01

Industry News

The complete Industry News section from the October 2012 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2012-10-01

PTExtras

Highlights from our e-mail newsletter and online videos section.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2012-08-01

Braking Toward the Future

In the past decade, electrohydraulic braking systems--including ABS and traction control--have grown increasingly popular, due largely to the vehicle design flexibility and performance advantages they offer. The industry has seen several other instances of intelligent machine controls, unrelated to braking, over the years as well. But what all of these technologies have typically had in common is that they’ve existed as standalone, point-to-point functions that have not been integrated together. The present and future of braking is all about taking the next logical step--getting fully connected and finding ways to embed intelligence throughout a machine.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2012-08-01

Sorting Out Flexible Couplings

In most cases, industrial power transmission calls for flexible rather than rigid couplings in order to forgive minor shaft misalignment. For that reason, this article will focus solely on the selection of flexible couplings.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2012-08-01

Robots Go Where Even Heroes Fear to Tread

The DARPA Robotics Challenge is creating first-response robots capable of going where the danger is.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2012-06-01

Zero Friction Solution

Air bearings provide a more-precise view of print head variations.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2012-06-01

Nervy Enterprise and Edgy Engineering: A Cant-Miss Mix

Fairchild International, a U.S.-based manufacturer of underground mining equipment, has produced battery-powered DC scoops since the early 1980s. With 17 different models available, Fairchild offers a size to fit any coal mining operation, making it the leader in the industry.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2012-06-01

Rolling Bearings in High-Speed Passenger Traffic

Passenger transport today moves significantly faster than ever before, often operating on separate tracks especially designed for high-speed trains. Accordingly, high-speed rolling bearings are very important components in the bogies of trains today. Maximum train speeds currently reach 380 km/h (236 mph) in the latest high-speed applications - 80% higher than in the earlier days of high-speed traffic. This paper presents two application examples of modern, high-speed traffic, together with some typical bearing arrangements and housings. It provides insight regarding measures taken in the bearing industry to meet the requirements of contemporary, high-speed traffic, and it cites important standards and regulations applicable for - but not restricted to - European applications. To be precise, the focus here is on journal bearings; information on traction motor bearings, transmission bearings and housings is included, but described in less detail.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2012-06-01

Improved Performance for Hydraulic Seals from Thermoplastic Polyurethane

Seal design engineers and end users are continually seeking improved sealing systems and materials. This paper describes the potential of a new thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) material to deliver improvements in pressure, speed and temperature capability, which are presented as comparisons to proven industry standard materials. Performance is demonstrated by virtue of test bench results of seals made from MDI-, PPDI- and NDI-based materials.
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2012-06-01

Industry News

The complete Industry News section from the June 2012 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
PUBLISHER'S PAGE | 2012-04-01

How to Become an Expert in Your Field

Managing Editor Randy Stott recounts a recent visit to Siemens manufacturing and assembly facilities in Elgin, IL.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2012-04-01

Sky Science

S.S. White Provides Twisting, Turning Power Transmission with Flexible Shafts
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2012-04-01

Gearbox Bearing Service Life: A Matter of Mastering Many Design Parameters

The availability of high-strength shaft materials, in combination with bearings with high carrying capacity, allows use of slimmer shafts. However, the modulus of elasticity remains the same, so seat design for bearings and gears must be given close attention.
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2012-04-01

Industry News

The complete Industry News section from the April 2012 issue of Power Transmission Engineering
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...
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2012-02-01

Compact Loaders for Compact Spaces

Compact loaders are employed where large machines have no access or are over dimensioned. New hydrostatic drives from ZF meet the demanding needs of this market.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2012-02-01

Guidelines for Designing Better Motion Control Systems

Motion control systems engineers work chiefly in two well-defined areas: 1) new designs and 2) redesigns or retrofits. This article examines the best approach for each option.
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.
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2012-02-01

Industry News

The complete Industry News section from the February 2012 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2011-12-01

Project Integration - Design Engineers Adapt to Modern Day Mechatronics

Though the original definition of mechatronics derived from the Yasakawa Electric Company in the late 1960s (the company won trademark rights for the term in 1973), the word has remarkably evolved.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2011-12-01

Cut and Print

Norkol Converting Corporation is one of the nation’s leading independently owned converters and distributors of commercial printing papers. The company has full production capabilities and state-of-the-art machinery for winding, trimming and sheeting. The company utilizes traditional slitter re-wind equipment that unwinds, slits and then re-winds paper to new dimensions. These conventional re-winders, while typically producing new widths of paper with clean cuts, work at an inefficient, slow pace.
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.
EVENTS | 2011-10-01

Calendar

The complete Technical Calendar from the October 2011 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2011-10-01

Industry News

The complete Industry News section from the October 2011 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
PRODUCT NEWS | 2011-08-01

Product News

The complete Product News section from the August 2011 issue of Power Transmission Engineering
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2011-08-01

Motion Control - Product Spotlight

This special product news section takes a look at the latest in motion control products.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2011-08-01

Motoring Ahead

Synchronous motors controlled by variable speed drives are bringing higher efficiencies to industrial applications.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2011-06-01

Microprocessor-Controlled Prosthetic Leg

A new solution has been developed around the use of microprocessor-controlled prostheses. Just like natural limbs, these can react automatically, adapting to the current situation.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2011-06-01

Integrated Motion Control in Packaging Machines Delivers Value

Maximizing packaging machine productivity and performance is imperative to success and is driving OEMs to adopt and invest in the latest technologies that can meet their customers’ challenges. At the forefront of these performance-driven technologies is an integrated control system—or programmable automation controller (PAC)—and latest-generation motion solutions.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2011-06-01

(Material) Moving into the Future

a custom hydraulic brake system from Mico Inc. aid in the development of specialized material handling equipment.
EVENTS | 2011-06-01

Technical Calendar

The complete Technical Calendar section from the June 2011 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
PRODUCT NEWS | 2011-04-01

Product News

The complete Product News section from the April 2011 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2011-04-01

Development of the Upgraded DC Brush Gearmotor for Spacebus Platforms

The obsolescence of materials and processes in the manufacture of traditional DC brush gearmotors has necessitated the development of an upgraded DC brush gearmotor.
EVENTS | 2011-04-01

Calendar

The technical calendar from the April 2011 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
POWER PLAY | 2011-04-01

When (Robotic) Animals Ruled the Earth...

Nowadays, you can find scientists and engineers creating micro-robotic creatures for a slew of fascinating research projects.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2011-02-01

Product Focus: Gears and Gear Drives

In this special news section, the editors of Power Transmission Engineering have gathered the latest product news and information from the gears and gear drives sector.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2011-02-01

Opportunities Amidst Crises

Energy-challenged industries--and countries--can benefit from improved motor design and materials.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2011-02-01

Drive-Based Integrated Safety

While safety functions have been integrated into drives packages for some years now, the current trends are very exciting, from many angles. Today, a full complement of safety functions can be implemented at the front-end of a system design on all types of production machines, including printing, packaging, converting, materials handling and other equipment used throughout American industry.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2011-02-01

The Green Spin: Baldor Redefines Cooling Tower Performance

The Baldor Reliance RPM AC Cooling Tower Direct Drive Motor is designed exclusively for the cooling tower industry. This motor combines the technologies of the power-dense, laminated frame RPM AC motor with high performance, permanent magnet salient pole rotor designs.
PRODUCT NEWS | 2010-12-01

Product News

The complete Product News section from the December 2010 issue of Power Transmission Engineering
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2010-12-01

Medical Modifications

Maxon upgrades tissue removal system for Interlace.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2010-12-01

Medical Pumps with Uncommon Sens(ors)

New generation sensors are improving our quality of life.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2010-12-01

Development of an Actuator for Ambient to Cryo Application

During the qualification campaign of the NIRSpec (near-infrared spectrometer) instrument mechanism, the actuator could not achieve the expected lifetime that had been extended during the development phase. The initial design could not be adapted to the requested number of revolutions during that phase. Consequently the actuator needed to be modified so that the function of the mechanism would not be endangered or, by extension, the overall function of the NIRSpec instrument. The modification included a change of the overall actuator design—internal dimensions, tolerances, materials, lubrication and assembly process—while keeping the interface to the mechanism, mass and function.
EVENTS | 2010-12-01

AWEA to Wind Supporters--Do Not Panic

Despite posting its slowest quarter since early 2007, AWEA remains optimistic that the wind industry can and will work successfully with the revolving doors in Washington.
POWER PLAY | 2010-10-01

Vive (American) La France

A look back at a turbine-powered fire engine that was years ahead of its time.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2010-10-01

Book Review: Design of Permanent-Magnet Brushless Machines

The latest offering by machine design experts J.R. Hendershot and T.J.E. Miller is an 822-page brushless permanent-magnet (PM) machine design book that serves as a worthy follow-up to their 1994 work.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2010-10-01

Coastal Question Marks

Does the U.S. renewable energy solution lie offshore? An update on the status of offshore wind projects.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2010-10-01

The Limbs of Lumenhaus

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

Product News

The complete Product News section from the August 2010 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2010-08-01

A Need for Reduced Energy Costs

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

Energy Efficiency by Using Innovative Bearing Solutions

Based on simulation methods and calculation tools developed by the Schaeffler Group and presented in the first part of this paper, three approaches regarding increased efficiency based on rolling bearings are presented.
EVENTS | 2010-08-01

Calendar

Calendar of upcoming events from the August 2010 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2010-06-01

Considerations for Gearmaking in Wind Turbine Applications

A Q&A with N.K. Chinnusamy, president of Excel Gear of Roscoe, IL.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2010-06-01

Energy Strategy Makes a Difference

How to optimize performance and sustainable production through strategic planning, informed analysis and automation and control technology.
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2010-06-01

Industry News

The complete Industry News section from the June 2010 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
VOICES | 2010-05-01

AGMA--American Name, International Association

AGMA Voices is a new feature brought to you by Gear Technology in cooperation with the American Gear Manufacturers Association. AGMA Voices will give you opinions, insight and information presented by various AGMA staff members, board members, committee heads and volunteers. In this column, Gear Technology will bring you guest editorials from the gear industry’s leading association.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2010-04-01

Helping Hands: How Robotic Automation Can Help Manufacturing Resurgence

Before Mike Cicco was involved on the engineering side, he used to sell robotic systems to manufacturers. Most of his sales pitches were met with hesitation and skepticism as he tried to explain the “benefits” of replacing employees on the shop floor with an automated system.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2010-04-01

Linear Motion Q&A: Customized Machinery Built with Off-the-Shelf Components

This Q&A session with various experts at Thomson Linear Systems covers linear slides & stages, clutches & brakes, bearings and actuators.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2010-04-01

Energy Management Considerations with Todays Drive Systems

While it is valid to state that energy efficiency is defined as the same level of production being achieved at an overall lower energy cost, it is equally important for today’s machine builders and automation engineers alike to remember that an energy-efficient system can actually translate into higher productivity. This is achievable through a comprehensive approach to energy management.
POWER PLAY | 2010-04-01

Service Without a Smile

Manufacturing employees have always kept their eyes on the robotic systems that continue to pop up in assembly lines and industrial workspaces. These metallic, low-maintenance robotic employees don’t waste time with smoke breaks or catching up on episodes of Lost. They tend to stick to the task at hand with little argument or attitude, giving human counterparts a bad name when they gripe about factory temperatures or lack of a decent dental plan.
PRODUCT NEWS | 2010-02-01

Product News

The complete Product News section from the February 2010 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
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

Honing a Competitive Advantage

Sunnen grows product portfolio with motion control solution from Siemens.
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.
EVENTS | 2009-12-01

Michigan Eyes Investment at AWEA Small and Community Wind Conference

The first trade show dedicated specifically to small and community wind took place in Detroit, Michigan November 3–5. Denise Bode, American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) CEO, was pleased with the turnout for the event and the increasing potential for this segment of the wind energy market.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2009-10-01

Hardware-Software Synergy Automates Power Plant Data Collection

Robotics and other advanced automation technology systems are viewed as a looming threat to some in the plant maintenance field. Although there is a constant battle for some workers to remain useful while machines are continuously fulfilling more roles on the plant floor, there are those who in turn have found a better use of their newly freed time.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2009-10-01

Solar Energy - The Alternative Alternative

While gear and bearing manufacturers engage in a wind energy arms race, the robotic automation industry has its sights set directly on the sun. Solar power—wind energy’s somewhat neglected step brother—has been gaining ground in alternative energy since 2001.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2009-08-01

Autosave Increases Productivity, Reduces Downtime for Nestle Purina

As automation devices have grown more complex and have incorporated more plant data in their operation, there is an increased need for programming changes to continue smooth operation or improve performance. In environments requiring frequent changes, it is not uncommon for code to be lost or changes overwritten, resulting in increased downtime and decreased productivity
POWER PLAY | 2009-08-01

Now That Is Product Placement

ABB Robotics gets free advertising via summer blockbuster.
PRODUCT NEWS | 2009-06-01

Product News

The complete product news section from the June 2009 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2009-06-01

Neighborhood Watch - Advancements in Condition Monitoring Equipment

Now more than ever, manufacturing companies are examining what steps need to be taken to ensure improvements to machine reliability by predicting system failures and minimizing downtime.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2009-06-01

Reducing Core Loss of Segmented Laminations

The recent trend toward using segmented laminations as a means to increase slot fill and facilitate automated fabrication of electric machines comes with a penalty of increased core loss at the segment joints.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2009-06-01

Electronic Control for Hydraulic Applications - A Case Study

This case study presents how electronics and software can be applied to a mobile hydraulic application, as well as how electro-hydraulics have evolved over time.
POWER PLAY | 2009-06-01

Power Transmission - Behind the Scenes

Building a mast that extends as high as a 12-story building with the capability to support a full-size 50 kg camera in potential high winds is no easy task.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2009-04-01

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.
EVENTS | 2009-04-01

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.
PRODUCT NEWS | 2009-04-01

Product News

The complete Product News section from the April 2009 issue of Power Transmission Engineering magazine.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2009-04-01

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.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2009-02-01

With Electric Motors, Size Indeed Matters

In this paper, Edward Hage, founder of specAmotor.com, an online motor calculation and selection tool, focuses on the overheating of electric motors. Presented here is a calculation method with which the temperature and heat development of a direct current (DC) motor and a brushless motor can be predicted accurately.
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 | 2009-02-01

Six Keys to Sustainable Manufacturing

The federal government estimates that manufacturing uses about one third of the energy consumed in the U.S., so manufacturing companies can play an important role in building a sustainable future.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2008-12-01

Control System Upgrades Product Testing and Validation Machinery

Opto 22 Embeds Snap Motion Control subsystem in production equipment to control, monitor and gather operational data.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2008-12-01

High-Capacity Bearings Carry the Load for Chinese Gearbox Manufacturer

Th e signing of a contract for more than 5,000 sets of SKF’s latest high-capacity cylindrical roller bearings (HCCRB) for wind turbines will impart added load-carrying capacity, more reliability and longer life to the Nanjing Gear Company’s (NGC) line of gearboxes for wind generation applications.
EVENTS | 2008-12-01

Events

Coverage of the AHR expo, plus the complete technical calendar from the December 2008 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
PRODUCT NEWS | 2008-12-01

Product News

The complete product news section from the December 2008 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2008-12-01

Music in Motion

Woodworking process gets much needed upgrade for guitar manufacturer.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2008-10-01

Bovine Bliss

Brake application keeps cows happy and comfortable at dairy farms.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2008-10-01

Gear- or Actuator-Driven, These Bots Are Cutting-Edge

Robots are everywhere these days— bots in the factory, bots in space, bots at the airport, bots in the movies and much, much more. But robots in the operating room?
PRODUCT NEWS | 2008-10-01

Product News

The complete product news section from the October 2008 issue of Power Transmission Engineering (PTE).
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2008-08-01

Bearing Repair Provides Valuable Alternative To Bearing Replacement for Heavy Industries

When a bearing is damaged, it is often removed from service and replaced before it reaches its full, useful and economical life. Advancements in bearing design, materials, bearing maintenance and repair methods have greatly improved the potential for and popularity of bearing repair as an effective way to extend the life of the bearing.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2008-08-01

Turning Science Fiction Into Fact

Fans of Arthur C. Clarke may remember a concept in his 1979 novel, The Fountains of Paradise, of an orbital elevator used to raise payloads from the ground to a satellite as a more cost-effective means of transporting material to outer space.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2008-08-01

Is Maintenance Included in Your Strategic Plan

Few would now argue that what some may have perceived just a few years ago as “Chicken Little” stories regarding the depletion of this country’s skilled manufacturing workforce are now in fact firmly based in stark reality.
EVENTS | 2008-06-01

Rewind Seminar Jump Starts Motor, Generator Know-How

Calling on engineers and maintenance power plant personnel, industrial users of low- and medium-voltage motors and generators and motor repair shop staff...
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2008-06-01

Custom-Made Manufacturing

Sound business model increases opportunities for Misumi USA Inc.
PRODUCT NEWS | 2008-06-01

Product News

The complete product news section from the June 2008 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
PRODUCT NEWS | 2008-06-01

Old Tricks for New Dogs

The latest developments for wind turbines from Voith Wind rely on proven technologies.
EVENTS | 2008-04-01

Events

The complete Events section, including technical calendar, from the April 2008 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
EVENTS | 2008-04-01

A Record-Setting Week at IFPE 2008

With its labyrinth of cranes, cement mixers and Mack trucks, the entrance of CONEXPO-CON/AGG and IFPE 2008 looked more like a carnival than a trade show.
PRODUCT NEWS | 2008-04-01

Product News

The complete product news section from the April 2008 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2008-04-01

Saltwater Solutions from igus

igus bearings solve undersea issues for the marine vehicle industry.
POWER PLAY | 2008-02-01

Eat Your Heart Out, Spielberg

"Restless Planet" transports guests to a Jurassic landscape with more than 100 animatronic dinosaurs.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2008-02-01

Improved Fuel and Energy Efficiency Through Optimized Bearing Design and Selection

Today, better fuel economy is a main objective in the automotive development process. It remains top-of-mind with the auto industry and consumers because of costs and environmental impacts. Because the industry’s average fuel-economy standard is required to increase by 40 percent by 2020, manufacturers and engineers are working to develop fuel-efficient, environmentally friendly and reliable designs for vehicles.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2008-02-01

Capacity--And the Lack of It--Rules

U.S. wind turbine growth puts a new spin on bearing manufacture.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2008-02-01

Troubleshooting with Torque Transmission

The issue might be a faulty treadmill at a local gym, the need to update orthopedic surgery equipment or simply a train stuck in neutral at the toy store. Whatever the case may be, viewing e-mails in the marketing department at Torque Transmission is like opening Christmas presents every morning.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2008-02-01

Grip Tight Done Right

Baldor bearings make the grade with Sapphire Recovery and Twin City Fan.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2007-10-01

AGMA

Readers of our sister publication, Gear Technology, are perhaps more familiar with the American Gear Manufacturers Association (AGMA) than our PTE audience. Now more than 90 years old, AGMA continues to thrive as a global, relevant go-to resource and service provider—from metrology to tribology—for its more than 400 worldwide members. PTE put some questions regarding AGMA—now, and going forward—to AGMA president Joe T. Franklin, Jr.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2007-10-01

The Search for Intelligent Brakes

Th e Allen Telescope Array at Hat Creek, CA is a joint venture between the University of California Berkeley and the SETI Institute of Mountain View, CA. SETI has hired Minex Engineering of Antioch, CA to help with the design and installation of state-of-the-art drives and controls for the antenna array.
PRODUCT NEWS | 2007-10-01

Product News

Latest Product News
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2007-04-01

Industry News

News from around the Industry
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2007-04-01

The SKF High-Capacity Cylindrical Roller Bearing

Th e ISO defi nition of a full- complement bearing states that the bearing does not have a cage. When that defi nition was written, it was not technically possible to have a full-complement bearing with a cage. But SKF’s new high-capacity cylindrical roller bearing combines the load-carrying capacity of a fullcomplement bearing with the benefi ts of a bearing with a cage (Fig.1).
REVOLUTIONS | 1970-01-01

Industrial Gearbox Market Trends

Learn about the effect Covid-19 had on the industrial gearbox market and how the industry is predicted to recover.

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