Innomotics GmbH and Danfoss Drives A/S are pleased to announce the next phase of their strategic, non-exclusive partnership. This was announced at the Hannover Messe recently where Michael Reichle, Innomotics CEO, Mika Kulju, president of Danfoss Drives, attended the Innomotics booth.
Innomotics presents its innovations and solutions for a sustainable industry at Hannover Messe 2025. Highlights include a novel Active Vibration Control System, IE6 energy efficiency class motors, and new product partnerships.
Siemens announced today that it has completed the acquisition of Altair Engineering Inc., a leading provider of software in the industrial simulation and analysis market, for an enterprise value of approximately USD 10 billion. With this acquisition, Siemens extends its leadership in simulation and industrial artificial intelligence (AI) by adding new capabilities in mechanical and electromagnetic simulation, high-performance computing (HPC), data science and AI.
BorgWarner continues to expand its new energy vehicle motor business and has recently secured four new projects with three major Chinese domestic brands. The projects include the supply of 400V high-voltage hairpin (HVH) motors to a prominent Chinese new energy vehicle supplier for their 200kW hybrid rear-drive platform, with production planned to commence in August 2025. BorgWarner will also provide motors for a top Chinese domestic OEM’s 150kW pure electric platform, scheduled for mass production in March 2026. Additionally, the company will supply electric motors for the next-generation vehicles of another major Chinese domestic OEM, covering both range-extended and plug-in hybrid models, with production anticipated to begin in August and October 2025.
The trade show circuit has offered a wealth of e-mobility and motor technologies recently. From IMTS and Pack Expo to MINExpo and CES 2025, there are plenty of disruptors in the motor segment for power transmission components. One area—in particular—is the aerospace industry where vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) rotorcrafts continue to redefine aerial transport, variable frequency drives (VFDs) support aircraft performance, stepper motors provide passenger comfort and software enables engineers to optimize electric motor design.
If you haven’t been paying attention lately, you might think that electric motors are an old, stodgy technology. After all, most of the real inventions occurred way back in the nineteenth century, with contributions from historical geniuses like Faraday and Tesla. We’ve been using DC motors and AC induction motors since the late 19th century. In many cases the basic design has remained unchanged.
Applied Motion Products introduces the AW Stepper Motors, featuring an IP65-rated design that ensures reliable operation in harsh environments. Engineered for a high level of protection, these motors effectively shield internal components from external contaminants such as dust, dirt, moisture, and grease.
ABB launched the Baldor-Reliance Food Safe SP5+ motor, the world’s first IP69 ultra-premium efficient motor, at the International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE) on January 28. This advanced technology sets a new benchmark for energy efficiency, hygiene and durability in food and beverage production environments.
Kollmorgen has announced the latest update to its SafeMotion Monitor (SMM) firmware: SMM2.0. This upgrade allows OEMs to leverage SMM functional safety features with more encoder and motor types to support a wider range of applications such as material forming, multi-axis measurement equipment, food processing and food packaging.
Kollmorgen has updated its SafeMotion Monitor (SMM) firmware: SMM2.0. This upgrade allows OEMs to leverage SMM functional safety features with more encoder and motor types to support a wider range of applications such as material forming, multi-axis measurement equipment, food processing and food packaging.
The automotive supplier association CLEPA honors ZF as a top innovator in the “Green” category. The award-winning technology, an electric motor without rare earths, sets new standards in electromobility by dispensing with magnets and improving sustainability with the same performance.
Orbex Group, a U.S.-based supplier of slip rings and electric motors, introduces a new family of compact wheel drives (CWD), increasing its offering of precision motion solutions. The CWD-500 and CWD-1000 are integrated motor, gearbox, encoder and wheel combination units, designed to facilitate easy application in compact robotic applications like autonomous mobile robots (AMR) and automated guided vehicles (AGV).
The CTI Symposium Berlin 2024 will open its doors to over 700 global automotive leaders from 20+ countries this week. As a key event for engineers and developers in the automotive industry, the CTI Symposium covers the most pressing topics, including electric powertrains, efficiency, cost, innovation and more.
From electric motors and linear actuators to robots and gearboxes, the range of equipment and machinery used to create automation in industrial applications is diverse. Each has its own set of sealing requirements and understanding these critical components requires many years of experience. In this article David Kaley, Trelleborg’s global segment manager for industrial automation, shares his insights on sealing needs for electric motors. Standard, elastomer-based radial shaft seals as well as high-performing PTFE-based seals are discussed.
Airbus UpNext, a wholly owned subsidiary of Airbus, and Toshiba Energy Systems & Solutions Corporation (Toshiba), Toshiba Group’s energy arm, will cooperate and mutualize experience on superconducting technologies for future hydrogen-powered aircraft.
The Sartell City Council has signed a Purchase Agreement with Niron Magnetics for 79 acres of public land on the east side of 4th Avenue South. This property, part of the 167-acre Champion Plat acquired by the City of Sartell last year during the purchase of the Mill District, marks a significant development for the community.
Segway-Ninebot, the global leader in the micromobility transportation solutions and robotic service industries, announces a strategic partnership with Mopar the authentic global service, parts and customer care brand for Stellantis vehicles. Through this partnership, select Segway products including its popular electric scooters and GoKart are now available to Mopar’s authorized Chrysler, Dodge, Fiat, Jeep and Ram dealers in North America.
NTN Corporation is pleased to announce the expansion of our “Low Friction Hub Bearing” Series, with the development of two new products with low friction characteristics, “Low Friction Hub Bearing IV” and “Low Friction Hub Bearing V”. These hub bearings were developed to meet the needs of our global automotive OE customer-base, as they strive to make their mobility products more efficient.
The assignment was simple: compare a CL7 Freightliner M2 retrofit—with a BAE Systems propulsion solution and an Eaton MD 4-speed EV transmission—to a similar sized truck with an ICE. Sure, you can pop the hood, examine the interior, and ask a few questions—which we did during a June 2024 event at Eaton’s Proving Grounds located in Marshall, MI—but the fun part came when we took both vehicles out on the test track to see how the EV truck handled on turns, inclines and at top speeds versus its ICE counterpart.
Trucks automatically driving behind one another on the highway, 'platooning', or cars automatically changing lanes: Here vehicle movements have to be calculated and executed precisely and quickly without a human driver. Software and AI algorithms safely control the drive, brakes, front and rear wheel steering and damping systems. The more efficient the AI algorithms are, the better the available computing power can be used.
Eaton will be displaying a number of transmissions for both traditional and electrified commercial vehicles at IAA Transportation, September 17–22, in Hannover, Germany.
Nord Drivesystems delivers reliable, high efficiency automation solutions to a wide range of industries. Their modular product portfolio of over 20,000,000 standard components includes gear units, electric motors, and electronic control products that offer versatility and flexibility for easy adaptation to application requirements.
The Motion Technology Company Schaeffler continues to drive forward the expansion of the charging infrastructure at its locations. More than 5,000 additional charging points for electric vehicles are to be constructed worldwide by 2030. These include 3,000 charging points at European locations alone. This measure is part of Schaeffler’s sustainability program. The locations Herzogenaurach and Schweinfurt are acting as pilot projects for the technology and the operator model. Following the successful completion of the test phase, the project will be gradually rolled out in all other regions of the Schaeffler Group.
Ventilators provide critical airflow to patients whose natural breathing is insufficient to sustain life. They are also utilized as a preventative measure to counteract the imminent failure of other bodily functions or ineffective gas exchange in the lungs. The widespread use of mechanical ventilation has significantly enhanced the survival rates of patients undergoing surgeries, experiencing lung issues due to accidents, or suffering from acute and chronic pulmonary ailments. A critical aspect of the effective functioning of ventilators is the micro motion system, which powers the ventilation system. This article will focus on the use and benefits of brushless DC micro motors in ventilators.
Bonfiglioli will showcase its expanded electromobility portfolio at the upcoming iVT Expo, in Chicago, Illinois - August 21 and 22. The newest addition to their portfolio will be on display, the revolutionary 700 C SE track drive. Designed for stand-up skid steers, this compact and powerful solution features an integrated electromagnetic parking brake, IP67 protection, and a special rotating output flange for triangular undercarriage design.
ZF is harnessing the power of software to develop smarter, more connected, and highly efficient commercial vehicle technologies. By integrating ZF’s intelligent software solutions with its chassis technologies, vehicle performance and safety can be improved, ensuring safer and smoother journeys. As automotive technologies shift towards greater digital integration, ZF is setting the pace as an enabler of smart and connected technologies. ZF is also able to leverage its software domain expertise from other vehicle segments within the ZF Group to produce intelligent systems quickly and cost effectively that can lower the overall total cost of ownership (TCO).
Schaeffler recently presented its extended product range for off-highway technology at iVT Expo Cologne 2024. The focus was on systems for the electrification and digitalization of mobile agricultural and construction machinery and for materials handling technology. Schaeffler is emphasizing its commitment to sustainability and supporting the transition to a highly efficient and climate-neutral economy in the off-highway sector.
Nowhere else in Europe were as many electric buses newly registered last year as in the UK. Out of 2,554 standard single- and double-decker buses, 1,150 were fitted with a purely electric drivetrain (BEV or FCEV). By comparison, in 2023 only 838 e-buses were registered in Germany, 743 in France, 563 in Norway and 410 in Italy. With UK bus manufacturers Alexander Dennis and Wrightbus fully embracing the VEDS (Voith Electrical Drive System), Voith has been instrumental in boosting the use of zero-emission public transport in the UK and Ireland.
Mechanical and electronic engineering continues to play a significant role in the changing transportation landscape. Areas such as connected vehicles, autonomous driving, new components and software-designed modules will push the latest EV technologies for the next ten to 15 years. Mechatronics will play a pivotal role in these advancements.
David Brown Santasalo (DBS) recently completed the installation of an enhanced complete drive system test bed at the Service Center in Chile.
The winners in the 2024 Powder Metallurgy (PM) Design Excellence Awards competition, sponsored by the Metal Powder Industries Federation (MPIF), demonstrate outstanding examples of PM’s diversity and ability to meet critical requirements. From electric vehicles to medical implants, once again, parts fabricators have demonstrated PM’s versatility and unique ability to challenge competing technologies. These award-winning components use PM’s flexibility to push forward new concepts and process controls to demonstrate the inexhaustible range of PM’s capabilities.
LIFT in Detroit was the perfect host for the AGMA Technical Division to lead a recent meeting on EV standards development. Gear and power transmission engineers who work directly on gearboxes for electric vehicles came together to review current relevant standards and create an information sheet for gears specific to EVs.
Siemens Digital Industries Software announced that Emotors, an independent e-drive manufacturer, has taken advantage of test solutions from the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio of industry software to aid in the development and constant improvement of its e-drive systems for hybrids, plug-ins and full electric vehicles (EVs).
Siemens Digital Industries Software has announced that Emotors, an independent e-drive manufacturer, has taken advantage of test solutions from the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio of industry software to aid in the development and constant improvement of its e-drive systems for hybrids, plug-ins and full electric vehicles (EVs).
Innomotics has been awarded with the prestigious "iF Design Award". As part of the strategic reorganization of the Siemens Group, the business was carved out and launched as the independent brand "Innomotics" in 2023. Naming, brand strategy and design were developed from scratch.
The inaugural North American version of the Lubricant Expo and The Bearing Show took place last week at Huntington Place in Detroit. A vibrant conference/education schedule balanced an informative group of exhibitors discussing component challenges, system upgrades and future trends. Innovation in the automotive, transportation and energy industries is keeping R&D departments busier than ever. Here’s why:
As the world transitions towards sustainable energy solutions, the demand for electric vehicles (EVs) is rapidly growing. This shift not only highlights the importance of reducing carbon emissions but also underscores the critical role of mining in supporting the infrastructure needed for this green revolution. From lithium-ion batteries to rare earth metals, mining plays a pivotal role in powering the future of transportation. The intricate relationship between mining and EV infrastructure highlights challenges, opportunities, and the path forward.
Schaeffler announces the expansion of its operations in the U.S. with the addition of a new manufacturing facility focused on producing automotive electric mobility solutions. This announcement represents the company’s commitment to innovation and growth in the Americas region.
Linear guides can function reliably in challenging environments — such as Li-ion battery manufacturing — with careful selection, protection, and proper lubrication. IKO has extensive expertise and a wide range of protective accessories available to create a custom product that will perform trouble-free.
The European Union is currently not “Fit for 55” regarding its self-defined target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55 percent by 2030 – particularly, when it comes to cutting emissions in the mobility sector. This was the essence of the 7th international FEV Zero CO2 Mobility Conference in Berlin.
ZF continues its pursuit of Next Generation Mobility across passenger car as well as the spectrum of light, medium and heavy-duty commercial vehicles with a planned $500 million investment in its Gray Court, South Carolina, facility. Offering everything from traditional ICE to e-mobility technologies, for both passenger car and commercial vehicle applications, ZF Gray Court is officially the company’s first North American flex manufacturing facility.
Bosch Rexroth and Modine are collaborating to bring Modine EVantage thermal management systems to the Bosch Rexroth portfolio of eLION products for electrified off-highway machinery worldwide. Together, Rexroth eLION systems with Modine EVantage thermal management systems advance the electrification of customer platforms in the off-highway segment by delivering low emissions and high-performance EV technology.
Siemens Digital Industries Software announced today its collaboration with Voltaiq to accelerate battery manufacturing, by combining their strengths to offer unparalleled capabilities for battery manufacturing-focused companies. This collaboration aims to bring together the production-proven capabilities of both Siemens’ Insights Hub and Voltaiq’s Enterprise Battery Intelligence (EBI), customers can gain access to unparalleled capability specific to battery-domain companies to help rapidly scale operations smoothly, from initial testing to full-scale production lines.
Mahle will feature products focusing on electric drives and intelligent charging at CES 2024. Mahle's technology kit for electric motors featured at CES 2024 combines the advantages of the company's benchmark SCT and MCT electric motors. With this unique technology toolbox for electric motors, Mahle can offer its customers customized electrification solutions for any vehicle class, application, or even brand philosophy.
Parvalux proudly cut the ribbon on their new state-of-the-art facility, Parvalux House on Technology Road. This facility is set to redefine industry standards and environmental responsibility. The Grand Opening in December welcomed several VIPs and industry leaders cementing Parvalux’s position within the local community.
With a focus on developing customer solutions that help preserve the earth’s natural resources and contribute to a low-carbon society, ABB launched the 2023 ABB Accelerating Circularity Challenge seeking innovative ideas that design out waste and pollution, keep products and materials in use for as much as possible and regenerating the natural system.
Motor & Drive Systems is focused on the latest technical advancements impacting the design, integration, and efficiency of motor, drive systems, and motion control for automation, robotics, manufacturing, and industrial, as well as utilities and automotive applications.
ZF has produced more than three million electric motors, a technology that is used worldwide in electric vehicles. ZF covers a broad spectrum of vehicle electrification: from purely electrically powered passenger cars and plug-in hybrids to electric drives for commercial vehicles. The production anniversary stands for a continuous reduction in the dependency on pure combustion engines as well as for the successful transformation to electromobility.
Since the beginning of 2023, the heavy duty version of the Voith Electrical Drive System (VEDS) has been an integral part of the first H2 truck (FCEV) to be built in Germany: the Paul Hydrogen Power Truck (PH2P). The energy for the electrical drive is generated in a fuel cell. The truck was developed, built and optimized by Paul Nutzfahrzeuge, a European market leader in special-purpose trucks, and Pepper Motion, a specialist in the electrification of new and used commercial vehicles, in close consultation with Voith.
Schaeffler recently displayed its automotive aftermarket solutions at the AAPEX show, hosted at the Venetian Expo in Las Vegas. Under the theme, “Your business is our focus,” Schaeffler hosted customers and industry partners at its booth, showcasing products and service solutions that enhance the vehicle’s life cycle, as well as technologies that support the transition to electric mobility.
Freudenberg Sealing Technologies has added a state-of-the-art battery testing laboratory to its R&D laboratories at its North American headquarters in Plymouth, MI. The multi-million-dollar investment will facilitate in-house battery and battery component testing, including simulated thermal runaway, and will increase the company’s functional knowledge and product development capabilities in the field of electric vehicles (EVs). Simulation tests that replicate battery cycling scenarios are also possible in the new laboratory.
Schaeffler AG and GKN Powder Metallurgy announce their joint commitment to advance the development of the permanent magnet industry in Europe and North America through a memorandum of understanding. GKN Powder Metallurgy will supply Schaeffler locally with permanent magnets with the aim to ensure a stable, local supply whilst improving sustainability and transparency in the supply chain.
WEG recently announced, through its indirect subsidiaries abroad, the acquisition of the industrial electric motors and generators business of Regal Rexnord Corporation, a global manufacturer of electromechanical equipment. The acquisition value is $400.0 million, subject to common price adjustments for this type of transaction.
WorldWide Electric announces the end of its exclusive low-voltage electric motor distribution relationship with H.D. Hyundai Electric Co., Ltd.
The Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers (STLE) — the technical society for individuals in the field of tribology and lubrication engineering — is hosting a co-branded event, the 2023 STLE Tribology Frontiers Conference (TFC) and Tribology & Lubrication for E-Mobility Conference, on November 12-15 at the Cleveland Marriott Downtown at Key Tower in Cleveland, Ohio.
The electrification movement has the potential to significantly impact the industrial motion industry in several ways, as industries seek to reduce their carbon footprint, increase energy efficiency, and adopt more sustainable practices. The movement could lead to advancements in energy storage solutions for motion systems, ensuring consistent and reliable operation.
Schaeffler, the motion technology company, and Swedish startup H2 Green Steel have decided to intensify their already close partnership. The two companies made the decision in the course of a recent equity funding round, in which Schaeffler agreed to invest a further 65 million euros, a significant increase that takes its total stake to 100 million euros. That’s the most equity Schaeffler has ever put into a minority stake in another company. As a strategic technology partner of H2 Green Steel, Schaeffler will channel its know-how into the development of new steel products, such as green e-steel for electromobility. In addition, the two companies will jointly develop new applications for the use of sustainable rolling bearing solutions in production. The aim is to maximize the efficiency of production through the use of first-rate components and integrated condition monitoring solutions. The two companies will also benefit from each other’s expertise in the areas of digitalization and circular economy.
Nord supports companies in undertaking the use of high efficiency electric motors funded by a program of the Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control (BAFA) and thus taking an important step towards energy efficiency and sustainability. Funding is available for both drives in new plants and conversions to more efficient systems, with up to 40 percent of the investment costs being covered.
Transfluid LLC was approached by Palmer Johnson to provide a competitive quote to the BAE system for the fishing vessel, The Western Flyer. The ship was chartered by author John Steinbeck for an expedition he chronicled in the book, The Log from the Sea of Cortez.
Iwis Mobility Systems GmbH & Co KG and THIEN eDrives GmbH recently announced a cooperation to develop, market and produce projects involving electric drive systems for the automotive industry. THIEN eDrives specializes in the development and production of electrical systems consisting of motor and inverter, while Iwis manufactures precision chain systems.
In lithium-ion batteries, higher energy density increases the risk of thermal runaway. As a preventive measure, Freudenberg Sealing Technologies has developed thermal barriers that help to slow down thermal runaway by increasing resistance to propagation. The new 3D thermal barriers can be used at various positions within the battery and have already proven reliable in their initial series productions.
Atlas Energy Solutions has selected Voith Turbo to supply a total of 21 TurboBelt 800 TPXL fill control fluid coupling drives (including spares) to power 42 miles of conveyor belt as part of Atlas Energy Solutions’ historic Dune Express project. ELIN Motoren, a Voith company, will also provide 21 customized low noise electric motors for the project, including spares. Once in operation, the overland conveyor system will serve as a low-impact transport system, taking sand from Texas to New Mexico while establishing a new world record for a single conveyor flight without a mid-belt drive at an impressive 16.3 miles overall single flight length.
Electric drives often need to operate under high voltages up to 800 V to provide more power and higher speeds. However, the risk of partial discharges increases at these voltages. In combination with high operating temperatures, these can locally damage the insulation and lead to machine failure. However, a good impregnation ensures not only electric insulation but also copper bonding, to mechanically strengthen the electric motor, and air gap filling, to allow a better heat transfer.
HECO, Inc. is taking the ninth year of its Reliability Process Maintenance (RPM) Symposium on the road, bringing the educational, two-day conference to Lexington, Ky. The two-day symposium focuses on reliable industrial processes and is scheduled for Oct. 3-4 at The Campbell House, 1375 S. Broadway, Lexington, KY, 40504.
Bonfiglioli has announced the successful testing and validation of its highly advanced kit of products designed for battery-powered mini excavators. Following rigorous evaluations by multiple original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) across all continents, the results demonstrate an extraordinary improvement in energy efficiency, surpassing industry standards by at least 20 percent.
ZF recently unveiled its self-developed thermal management system for electric vehicles at its annual Global Technology Day demonstration event. The new system not only offers a more compact design of the drive but can also increase the range of vehicles in winter by up to one third. In combination with an optimized electric drivetrain consisting of power electronics, motor and reduction gearbox based on 800-volt silicon carbide, the system sets new standards in compactness and weight. The newly developed powertrain software also makes a significant contribution to higher efficiency.
DELO has developed its first dual-curing, high-temperature adhesive for electric motor applications. Delo Dualbond HT2990 is designed for use in multiple processes, including magnet bonding and magnet stacking in electric motor manufacturing.
Parvalux has recently teamed with Keller Industrial Products, Inc., headquartered in Rochester, NY USA. The experienced team at Keller has specialized in mechatronic applications for OEMS and advanced manufacturing sites since 1937. As business development professionals who focus on motion control automation applications, components, and accessories, the company provides expert representation in the industry.
Logimat was the perfect opportunity for Bonfiglioli to share the expertise and know-how capitalized in over 60 years of business with customers and to present its solutions for forklifts, warehousing trucks and automated storage.
The SolarButterfly is focused on reaching millions of people, alerting them to the companies and individuals that are integral in transitioning societies away from fossil fuels toward clean energy technologies. Presently on a four-year journey around the world, the SolarButterfly plans to identify, record, and publicize at least a thousand climate protection pioneers and their solutions.
Doosan Industrial Vehicle (DIV), a global South Korean forklift manufacturer, partners with Kollmorgen to secure their leading position in the material handling industry. The objective is to innovate and build efficient, sustainable, and reliable custom made AGVs that exceeds their customers’ future requirements.
Welcome back to Part 2 of our inner ring and creep discussion. We left off with our creep calculation resulting in a 10.5 µm minimum inner ring fit to avoid creep. For the sake of making clean dimensions, let’s call it 10 µm on the lower end and the upper end is simply whatever your manufacturer can hold.
ABB is celebrating the “floor pour” of its newest U.S. flagship campus at 18250 W. Lincoln Avenue. The greenfield location in New Berlin will serve as the U.S. headquarters, manufacturing facility and distribution center for the Drives and Motion Services businesses. The new facility is anticipated to open in late 2024 and will accommodate 720 ABB employees. Approximately $100 million is being invested in the project and is expected to create 100 new jobs over the next three years.
The following off-highway, construction and mining solutions hint at the all-electric transition taking place across each industry.
I think I spend more time talking about ball bearings today than at any other time in my career. Ball bearings have always had a large place in automotive, but not typically in high demand positions—other than a few niche areas. High demand positions, such as axles and planetaries, were typically reserved for tapers, needles and cylindricals. The landscape is changing quickly.
Some 4,000 companies from the general engineering, electrical, digital and energy industries will showcase solutions for the production and energy supply of the future at Hannover Messe. Dr. Robert Habeck, Germany's Federal Minister for Economics and Climate Action, is set to visit Hannover on the second day of the flagship event for dialog with representatives of industry on taking the path to climate-friendly production.
Siemens Digital Industries Software announced that the latest release of Simcenter software for mechanical simulation helps streamline electrification engineering projects, assists new aircraft meet margins of safety, simplifies durability testing across many industries and much more.
EV developers are finding a competitive edge through efficiency gains not only in new battery pack technology and electronic components, but also through new developments in electric machines.
Electrification is changing the automotive industry wholesale. This online article looks at training and transmission technology courses available in the e-mobility sector today. Coursework includes examining gearbox structure to battery technology to health and safety issues. This expansion continues to prepare engineers, manufacturers, and technicians for the shift toward electric vehicles.
Nidec Leroy-Somer has signed an agreement with Airbus to develop an electric motor for its hydrogen-powered fuel cell engine prototype, as part of Airbus’ ambition to bring the first zero-emission commercial aircraft to market by 2035. The long-standing expertise and extensive know-how of the French electric motor manufacturer, who already provides proven advanced technologies to many demanding industries, such as Navy, Nuclear, Railway, Automotive and Robotics is now collaborating on Aviation decarbonization.
This article is Part III in a series of articles on speed rating of bearings. Part I appeared in the September 2022 issue ("Ball Bearing Limiting Speeds"), and Part II appeared in the October 2022 issue ("Ball Bearing Thermal Speed Rating"). Bearings with Norm examines the latest in bearing technology and design.
Heat is also generated in an e-motor, sometimes quite a bit. In demanding applications, the motor electronics cause the power to be throttled or even shut down completely. But there is another clever way to protect an electric motor from overheating without losing power: using a thermally conductive casting resin as a heat transfer medium. The principle can also be called a static solid cooling system.
ZF’s Commercial Vehicle Solutions (CVS) division has further underlined its commitment to advancing ‘Next Generation Mobility’ by investing in cutting-edge 5G digital connectivity. Equipping its commercial vehicle test track at Jeversen, Germany, with its own powerful campus network enables enhanced testing of ‘Big Data’ backed solutions which are increasingly facilitating the next levels of Mobility as a Service (MaaS) and Transportation as a Service (TaaS).
The Power Transmission Distributors Association (PTDA), the leading association for the industrial power transmission/motion control (PT/MC) distribution channel, welcomes a new distributor member: Nelson Electric Motors (Opelika, Ala.)
The Timken Company recently announced its packaged wheel bearings are being used on Ford Motor Company's F-150 Lightning, the first mainstream electric light-duty pickup truck to hit the market. Timken bearings on the F-150 Lightning represent incremental content per vehicle, compared to its gasoline-powered counterpart.
Bosch Rexroth has opened a new customer innovation center near Austin, Texas. The facility will provide a unique technology development experience for Bosch Rexroth factory automation customers from multiple industry segments, including electric vehicle manufacturing, battery production, consumer packaged goods and semiconductor manufacturing. The new innovation center is the latest in a series of expansions and investments Bosch Rexroth is making in North America, including a new plant in Queretaro, Mexico, and an expansion of its operations in Charlotte, N.C.
Cummins (CMI) recently announced that through its subsidiary Meritor, it has completed the acquisition of Siemens Commercial Vehicles business, a top supplier of high-performance electric drive systems for commercial vehicles. The acquired business will report through Cummins New Power business unit.
Eaton recently display technologies to support the zero emissions journey in the commercial vehicle market at the IAA Transportation show in Hannover, Germany.
ZF presents the latest generation of electric drives for passenger cars and light commercial vehicles. It sets standards through outstanding power density and energy efficiency. ZF achieves this thanks to numerous innovations at both the component and system level. These include the compact design of the drives, the "discrete approach" in power electronics, and a resource-saving use of materials, which also makes the production of the drives more sustainable. With their modular concept, the new ZF e-drives support automotive manufacturers in customizing the further electrification of their entire model range. For end customers, the new technologies offer higher efficiency, more power, and shorter charging times.
ZF honors eight of its approximately 30,000 suppliers worldwide for their excellent performance. The technology group is presenting the Supplier Awards as part of its ZF Global Supplier Summit, which this year focuses on the mobility of the future and global challenges. Current topics such as resilient supply chains, the climate crisis and digitalization are addressed.
Next-generation technology—everything from the electrification of vehicles to e-motors, bearings, mechatronics, and thermal management—was recently discussed during the Schaeffler Symposium 2022 in Detroit.
Many applications in the bulk goods and material handling industry include abrasive environments with large temperature fluctuations and rough operating conditions. To meet these formidable challenges, NORD DRIVESYSTEMS has engineered solutions that are robust, reliable, and easy to service. Their modular product system includes heavy-duty industrial gear units, high-efficiency electric motors with hazard protection features, and variable frequency drives with flexible functionality.
Bonfiglioli is convinced that around 50 percent of all new self-propelled construction machines will be either electrically or hybrid driven by 2030. So, it is high time for the globally active group based in Bologna, Italy, to take on the electric pioneering role in the machine groups that have previously been dominated by hydraulics. At Bauma 2022, the company presented the current options for electric drive technology for construction machinery.
The International Fluid Power Exposition (IFPE), along with the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM), have released another research whitepaper leading up to the return of the show to the Las Vegas Convention Center, March 14-18, 2023, along with the co-located CONEXPO-CON/AGG.
The Orbex Group, a manufacturer of high-performance electric motors and slip rings, introduces standard slip rings with an IP65 protection rating, providing washdown tolerance in many food, beverage and pharmaceutical manufacturing applications.
Freudenberg Sealing Technologies has been named a 2022 Automotive News PACE award finalist for its DIAvent Highflow pressure equalization element. Recognized at a black-tie gala on September 19 at the Max M. and Marjorie S. Fisher Music Center in Detroit, the honor validates two years of dedicated company research and development to successfully address customers’ needs for a safe, cost-effective solution for thermal runaway in battery-electric vehicles. The Automotive News PACE Awards competition highlights superior innovation, technological advancement, and business performance among automotive suppliers. Judged by an independent panel of technologists, the competition is recognized around the world as the industry benchmark for innovation.
For more than 30 years, the Schaeffler Symposium has stood for innovation, customer focus and the open exchange of ideas. The 12th Schaeffler Symposium, the ninth event of its kind to take place in the U.S., will be held in two venues this year: in Detroit on Sept. 8 and, for the first time ever, in Silicon Valley on Sept. 21-22. This year’s Symposium will focus on transformation and “Energizing the Next Generation.”
Bosch Rexroth will present its latest automation, material transport and assembly technology products and solutions for battery manufacturing in Booth #1553 at The Battery Show North America and Electric & Hybrid Vehicle Technology Expo, September 13-15, in Novi, Mich.
Curtiss-Wright’s Industrial Division recently confirmed its continued commitment to its long-term strategy of advancing the electrification market with the extension of its traction inverter product portfolio. These latest CWTIs offer the most highly efficient and innovative design for use in hybrid and pure-electric applications for on-highway and off-highway commercial vehicles.
ABB recently announced it has signed an agreement to purchase Siemens’ low voltage NEMA motor business. With manufacturing operations in Guadalajara, Mexico, this acquisition provides a well-regarded product portfolio, a longstanding North American customer base, and an experienced operations, sales, and management team. The business employs around 600 people and generated revenues of approximately $63 million in 2021. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed. The transaction is expected to close in the second quarter of 2023.
CTI Symposium Berlin starts with two introductory days dealing with the basics and practice of automotive transmissions, hybrid and electric drives for newcomers and those who want to refresh their knowledge. This is followed by the main program with keynote speeches, panel discussions and technical presentations.
Electric steel is used heavily in the manufacturing of electric motors. The material is key to producing the electromagnetic field used to turn the rotor. Without the electromagnetic properties associated with this iron alloy, the performance of electric motors would be substantially compromised. Historically, motors used in commercial and industrial applications have represented a major customer base for electric steel suppliers, and motor vendors have resultingly had little difficultly ensuring prioritized supply lines. However, the share of business held by commercial and industrial electric motor vendors is being threatened by the automotive sector in the wake of electric vehicles.
The California Air Resources Board (CARB) recently opened the second round of its Clean Off-Road Equipment Voucher Incentive Project (CORE), providing point-of-sale discounts on off-road zero-emission equipment. The project is administered by CALSTART and has $125M in funding available, more than double the amount allocated to the project when it first launched in January 2020. Originally only for freight, in 2022, CORE is expanding to include funding for the commercial harbor craft and agriculture and construction sectors.
At this year’s 12th Schaeffler Kolloquium, the automotive and industrial supplier is giving around 300 customers from Europe and beyond a close-up look at the latest technologies for the future of sustainable, efficient, and comfortable mobility. The two-day event, themed “Energizing the Next Generation,” puts the spotlight on innovations from Schaeffler’s electromobility, chassis systems, and hydrogen technology operations. Held every four years, the Schaeffler Kolloquium is a worldwide customer showcase. It kicks off in Bühl, Germany, where the Automotive Technologies division is headquartered, and will be followed in the course of the year by sister events in Detroit and San Jose (United States), Changsha (China), and Yokohama (Japan).
As part of its new, extensive eLION platform for the electrification of mobile working machines, Bosch Rexroth has developed spur gearboxes which vehicle manufacturers can use to unlock the full potential of new electric motors.
Gates Industrial Corporation continues to invest in and has expanded its Carbon Drive product portfolio. The company is introducing next-generation belts and other components to enable advances in bicycle drivetrain design and meet growing global demand.
Here’s a small sample of the technologies discussed during the CTI Symposium 2022 in Novi, Mich.
Eaton has introduced a battery disconnect unit (BDU) that can be combined with upgraded Breaktor circuit protection technology to provide circuit protection in electrified vehicles (EVs) while reducing overall complexity and cost.
A high force-to-size ratio is just one of the many features of Moticont’s GVCM-051-089-02 Linear Voice Coil Actuator with Built-in Bearing. The actuator applies up to 66.4 N (14.9 lbs.) of continuous force and 210 N (47.2 lbs.) of peak force.
The drive system manufacturer Heinzmann has introduced a new wheel hub motor with integrated transmission, which was developed in close collaboration with Framo Morat. The compact, high-performance drive provides ensures efficient operation in automated guided vehicles (AGV) and autonomous mobile robots (AMR).
The new electromagnetic linear brake ROBA-linearstop from Mayr Power Transmission offers a fail-safe system with high holding forces, which can also brake dynamically and provide short switching times.
The mobile machine market encompasses equipment supporting the movement of materials and components. This includes agricultural machinery, construction vehicles, municipal machinery, etc. These non-road mobile vehicles—tractors, cranes, forklifts and material handling equipment—often require personalized solutions focused on machine safety, automation and electrification.
Manufacturers today are merely scratching the surface when designing electric drive equipment for these challenging environmental applications.
Swiss company relies on electric drives for postal delivery and electric sports cars.