Realize Live Americas (Detroit) is the digital transformation conference designed for professionals in engineering, manufacturing, product lifecycle management, design and IT/software administration. Connecting users, industry experts and partners to share insights and explore the latest trends, technologies and best practices.
The Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers (STLE) — the technical society for individuals in the field of tribology and lubrication engineering — is hosting the 2025 STLE Tribology Frontiers Conference (TFC) on October 14-16 at Argonne National Laboratory in Lemont, IL.
The threat of corrosion caused from wet or chemical applications is no match for ATRA-FLEX® Nitrocarburized Couplings from U.S. Tsubaki. Learn more about how to significantly improve the lifespan and performance of critical components, providing both cost savings and enhanced reliability.
Nicholas (Nick) Sawyer recently joined the Kemco Systems sales team as regional sales manager.
As a part of David Brown Santasalo’s (DB Santasalo) ongoing commitment to the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), the global gear manufacturer introduced “Carbon Footprint of Products (CFP) Cradle to Gate CO2 equivalent” reporting for all their mining products in early 2022. Since that time, they have introduced the CFP Cradle to Gate CO2eq for their segmented girth gear range of products.
The 2025 Board of Directors and Manufacturer Council of the Power Transmission Distributors Association (PTDA) have officially begun their leadership terms.
In addition to traditional commercial sprocket offerings, PEER Chain & Sprockets can custom bore any size sprocket that has an existing keyway and deliver them within days of an order placement.
Nord Drivesystems offers a full, comprehensive range of after-sales services and support to ensure efficient performance and longevity of their products. Services include commissioning, maintenance, spare parts management, digital solutions, and more. They also provide self-service options, with FAQs addressing common inquiries via easy, 24/7 online access.
The recent EUROTRANS General Assembly in Bad Homburg, Germany, on November 29, 2024, was highly productive, bringing together participants from 10 countries. The association extends heartfelt thanks to host Mr. Fabian Maurer, Ringspann GmbH, Bad Homburg, and his team for their hospitality.
The ASI8100 stepper motor with built-in drive from Beckhoff adds another space-saving tool to the company’s broad range of compact drive technology products (up to 48 V DC). The ASI8100 series combines a stepper motor, stepper motor output stage, and fieldbus connection in a fully integrated design. These EtherCAT devices mount directly on the machine without a control cabinet or upstream I/O, allowing for highly compact, control cabinet-free machines.
In today’s fast-paced manufacturing world, inefficiencies in repetitive tasks can slow down progress. That’s why Bonfiglioli is proud to be part of Moma-Flex, a pioneering project funded by EIT Manufacturing and the European Union, designed to revolutionize how production plants operate.
A new era of damping technology has begun as sMOTION from ZF is now bringing stability and dynamics together for improved comfort and driving performance. This system adapts damping force exactly to the corresponding driving situation while also initiating very fast vertical movements for each individual wheel, thus actively lifting the vehicle to ensure optimal roadholding performance while enhancing a more pleasurable driving experience.
Greaves 3D Engineering, a British company specializing in precision engineering, has introduced “The Ultimate Drivers Rig,” a state-of-the-art racing car simulator designed for portability and professional performance. This innovative simulator can be folded and stored in a compact road case, allowing for easy transport to racetracks, trade shows, and corporate events. Central to the rig’s design are 45 high-performance components from igus, including self-lubricating linear and drive technologies, cable carriers, and plain bearings, which help reduce maintenance requirements and improve overall reliability.
When facilities are designed and built to meet the standards of the day, the plant is as efficient as it will ever be on day one. However, as the plant ages and production demands increase, aging equipment becomes strained leading to inefficiencies and escalating costs.
With over 20 years’ experience in the food processing industry, Mike Mitchell has filled many roles in his career. Now, as the key accounts manager for Middleby Food Processing brand, MP Equipment, Mitchell has been pivotal in advancing food technology. He understands the demands of frequent, late-night repairs on first generation equipment.
Since taking over as CEO of Solve Industrial Motion Group in June 2024, Ernie Lauber has focused on continuous improvement, predictive maintenance and growing the legacy brands within Solve.
Combining brands such as IPTCI, MasterDrive, PTI and TRITAN together with the LMS, SST, SPB-USA and USA Roller product lines, Solve Industrial Motion Group is a provider of high-quality metric and American Standard power transmission components and industrial-grade bearings.
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.)
Fear comes in many forms. Every October we exploit these fears—everything from spiders, zombies, and clowns to serial killers, puppets or twin girls standing in a hallway. A recent conversation with colleagues about Halloween attractions prompted a discussion on the role manufacturing/engineering plays in shocking the senses this time of year.
Closed-loop control systems can handle a wide range of motions with a wide range of loads if the control system and the mechanics of the system are properly designed for the task. A couple of the more difficult combinations to design for are high inertial mismatches and backlash with hard gearing. The question is not just how to make the system stable but also how to get the desired performance.
Zero-Max H-TLC torque limiters are designed to disengage in the event of a torque overload, protecting both the machine and the products being processed. The H-TLC features a consistent, reliable, repeatable, and adjustable disengagement torque setting, and is designed to withstand corrosive environments. An available actuating disc can be added for triggering alarms or providing automatic system shutdown the instant an overload condition occurs.
Maxon proudly announces the launch of the High Efficiency Joint (HEJ) Drive 70-48-50, the newest addition to its High Efficiency Robotic Joints portfolio. This advanced actuator sets new standards in torque density and efficiency, catering specifically to autonomous mobile robots operating in unstructured environments such as humanoids, quadrupeds, exoskeletons, or mobile manipulators.
SKF has secured EUR 430 million financing from the European Investment Bank (EIB) with a tenor of up to ten years. The financing will support SKF’s research and development (R&D) to increase the focus on high-growth segments and accelerate the design and development of enabling technologies particularly for the green transition and sustainability.
Liebherr’s components product segment supplies the heart of the rotating pillar for the bridge Friesenbrücke, which is being erected for Deutsche Bahn in Weener. It comprises a 5-meter, 12.5-ton combined roller and ball bearing along with eight matching pinions. This rotating pillar and the associated mechanical systems by Hermann GmbH Maschinenbautechnologie support the 145 meter long, 1,800-ton central section of Europe’s largest lifting swing bridge to date.
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.
Motion Industries, Inc. has signed a definitive purchase agreement to acquire the operating assets of U.S. based International Conveyor and Rubber (ICR). The transaction is expected to close at the end of December 2024, subject to customary closing conditions.
Thomson Industries, Inc. has released a true collaborative extension of cobots. The new Movotrak CTU 7th axis features collision detection settings for programming and control benefits. An industrial robot transfer unit (RTU) has also launched, which can be easily integrated with a user’s preferred motor and drive. Adding a horizontal operating range up to 10 meters, the Movotrak cobot transfer unit (CTU) sets itself apart with collision detection that stops the cobot when it encounters an obstacle, facilitating collaboration and increasing productivity.
Following a successful launch of the company’s new product portfolio at the International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) in Chicago, Rethink Robotics Inc., the United States pioneer of collaborative robots, recently named a new all-female leadership team. Effective immediately, Julia Astrid Riemenschneider has been appointed chief executive officer and Franziska Lorenz chief operations officer. With these appointments, Rethink Robotics becomes the first and only player in the field of collaborative robotics with two women at the helm.
Regal Rexnord Corporation and Honeywell have announced that the two companies have entered into a multi-year collaboration to build technologies for the emerging Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) market and be installed on Electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft.
Productivity and efficiency are paramount in the highly competitive snack food production industry. JD Manufacturing, Inc (JDM) in Pine Bluffs, WY, stands out as a leader with its high-performance automatic batch fryers, which are engineered specifically for kettle chip production. The batch frying process imparts kettle chips, whether made from potatoes, sweet potatoes, parsnips, carrots, or beets, with their distinctive premium texture and taste.
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.
To mark its 60th anniversary, igus has launched its innovative and environmentally friendly bicycle — called the igus:bike — on a world tour, underscoring its commitment to sustainability. Made from recycled plastics, the bike will spend a year traveling through 16 countries, signaling a new form of urban mobility while demonstrating the success of a circular economy of plastics.
A motion controller with even more possibilities: With the new MC 3602 B and MC 3606 B motion controllers, the selection and commissioning of drive systems is now even simpler. With the compact MC 3602/06 B, DC-motors, brushless DC-motors and linear motors can be operated with the typical position encoders as servo drive in accordance with CiA 402. Also new is the support of stepper motors with encoder as servo or without encoder in open-loop operation. The products "speak" EtherCAT, CANopen, RS232 and USB.
Antonio Martin Hernandez, Marco Partidas, Dayan Leng Armenteros, and Laura Vazquez diligently working on various components that require special attention. They are focused on inner rings (IRs) for cylindrical roller bearings, which play a crucial role in reducing friction and supporting radial loads. Additionally, they handle bevel gears, essential components in gearboxes that change the direction of torque transmission across various industrial applications.
Schaeffler India, a leading motion technology company in partnership with ‘Buddy4Study Foundation’ has announced the winners of its 2024 edition of the ‘Schaeffler India Social Innovator Fellowship Program’. The initiative aims to recognize and reward social entrepreneurs developing unique sustainable solutions that have the potential to positively impact and benefit society at large. It is also part of Schaeffler India’s flagship Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative HOPE, reinforcing its commitment to Healthcare, Occupational skill development, Preservation of Heritage & Environment and Empowerment of society.
Siemens Digital Industries Software has collaborated with FoodChain ID to bring world-class food supply chain compliance and regulatory information to the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio of industry software - enabling the Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) industry to maintain product quality while managing the complexity of regional compliance.
There’s a delicate balance in the constant evolution of today’s assembly line. Once dominated by hydraulics, manufacturing floors are incorporating a growing number of electromechanical solutions to supplement legacy hydraulic components, particularly in lower force, linear motion applications. Manufacturers that recognize this trend and harness the benefits of both hydraulic and electromechanical solutions position themselves to optimize future operations, regardless of market trend demands.
WEG was one of the main highlights in the 3rd edition of the Inovativos Award and the Innovation Forum, standing out in the categories of Industrial Intelligence and Sales Excellence, held during the Forum on Digital Innovation Cases in São Paulo.
Thordon Bearings has unveiled a new wireless propeller shaft bearing wear measurement system, marking a significant advancement in hull and propeller shaft condition monitoring.
Optimal Engineering Systems, Inc. (OES) has added four high-resolution, low-profile goniometers to their expanding catalog of high precision positioning stages. This newly released, AK120-45 Goniometer Series features precision ground worm gears with a 296:1 ratio and pre-loaded cross roller guides, and +/- 45 degrees of travel with 10 kg of load. The very high resolution of 0.0006 degrees (2.16 Arcsec.) is realized when using the standard Two-Phase Stepper Motor driven by a 10 micro-steps per step micro-stepping driver or with the servomotor options and Quadrature Optical Encoders.
The PTDA 2024 Industry Summit, held at The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, CO., brought together over 425 power transmission/motion control (PT/MC) industry executives to explore the theme “Broadening Horizons. Elevating Excellence.” The event sparked fresh thinking and provided actionable insights for tackling key challenges within the PT/MC sector.
R+W has just made a significant investment in its LP series flexible disc coupling line in West Chicago, IL as the latest in its efforts to localize production and better serve customers who are increasingly in need of speed and flexibility from their precision coupling suppliers. The expanded scope, including increases in materials, turning equipment, and personnel, will enable R+W to deliver single and dual-flex configurations, ranging from 300-15,000 Nm torque capacity, in under two weeks. Custom options will also be able to be delivered more quickly.
Motion Industries, Inc. has promoted Eric Gonzalez to senior vice president of Mexico, Canada, industry segments and business development, effective immediately.
A provider of engineering services in the hydraulic and pneumatic industry anticipates new orders in 2025 for movie prop platforms that use low-coefficient-of-friction Vesconite bushings. It hopes to produce several platforms in 2025, which will add to the number of platforms that it has produced since its first foray into the movie industry in May 2005.
The Franz Morat Group is exhibiting at SPS in Nuremberg in Hall 1, Booth 350. This year, the company is showcasing a wide range of precision gearing components and innovative drive technology solutions.
The starting signal for KUKA's digital offensive: Following the establishment of the new digital division, KUKA presented its comprehensive portfolio at its first software and digital event under the motto ‘KUKA digital powering your businesses at its headquarters in Augsburg. The long-established company, known for its industrial robots, is increasingly focusing on the consistent and seamless digitalization of global industrial landscapes. The highlight of the event: mosaixx, the open, collaborative cloud platform for industrial software-as-a-service.
WEG supplied medium voltage synchronous motors to CEDAE at the Lameirão Pumping Station in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. These motors will play a crucial role by pumping water to a significant part of the city, ensuring reliability and continuity for the state’s population.
Flexible couplings are one of the most critical components in mechanical drivetrains. Yet they're also one of the most overlooked during maintenance and inspection. In the marine and power generation industries, neglecting coupling health can be costly. Understanding your couplings and their requirements can ensure a smooth inspection and maintenance cycle. And in turn, can lead to longer coupling life and more uptime.
The Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers (STLE) — the premier technical society serving the needs of the tribology and lubrication engineering business sector — is pleased to announce the release of its new free digital special report, Knowledge Transfer Challenges in the Lubricants Industry.
SKF has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Proteus Marine Renewables (PMR) and GE Vernova’s Power Conversion business. The MOU sets out a framework for a potential alliance to supply tidal turbine generation systems (TTGS) to developers of tidal arrays for commercial, multi-megawatt tidal stream projects. An initial focus will be the supply of a minimum 59MW to MeyGen PLC (MeyGen) at its site in Scotland, the largest tidal stream facility in the world.
Igus has developed a new polymer bearing material called iglide JPF that is free of both per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). This innovation marks an important step in the company's efforts to create sustainable alternatives to conventional plain bearings.
Walk into any manufacturing plant in the United States and you are likely to see 50-year-old men and women working hard. These skilled craftsmen and women have earned the respect of their peers by performing year after year. While 50-year-old workers are commonplace, 50-year-old equipment…not so much. When that equipment happens to be a dynamometer, and it gets shipped back to the manufacturer for review and rebuild, it will invariably get nicknamed “dyno-saur.”
Schaeffler is proud to announce that Vehicle Lifetime Solutions CEO Jens Schueler, has been recognized with the prestigious 2024 Hall of Fame Award by the Import Vehicle Community of the Auto Care Association. Schueler received the award during the AAPEX show in Las Vegas
The Power Transmission Distributors Association (PTDA) has named Brian Short the 33rd recipient of its Warren Pike Award for lifetime achievement in the power transmission/motion control (PT/MC) industry. The award was bestowed upon Short during the PTDA 2024 Industry Summit on October 25 in Colorado Springs, CO.
Humanoid robots, designed to operate in close interaction with humans, rely heavily on smooth and controlled joint and limb motion. This makes the selection of the motors that power the axes of motion critical. Alongside high torque density and responsiveness, efficiency to enable long battery life is key, and reliability is also important. Achieving freedom of movement requires integrating numerous axes of motion, which is best accomplished by working closely with an expert in this field.
Nord Drivesystems is showcasing their modular drive solutions for high-volume packaging applications at Pack Expo 2024.
The Spain-US Chamber of Commerce in Florida is proud to announce that the recipients of the 2024 Ponce de León Awards for "Company of the Year" are Iberdrola and its U.S. subsidiary, Avangrid and the "Executive of the Year" is Alejandro Pardiñas, CEO of ABS, recognizing their exceptional contributions to energy innovation and industrial leadership.
Siemens has signed an agreement to acquire Altair Engineering Inc., a leading provider of software in the industrial simulation and analysis market. Altair shareholders will receive USD 113 per share, representing an enterprise value of approximately USD 10 billion. The offer price represents a 19 percent premium to Altair's unaffected closing price on October 21, 2024, the last trading day prior to media reports regarding a possible transaction. With this acquisition Siemens strengthens its position as a leading technology company and its leadership in industrial software.
A new website that includes thousands of shaft collars, couplings, and innovative mechanical components which are now available for sale online has been introduced by Stafford Manufacturing Corp. of Wilmington, MA.
State-of-the-art doesn’t begin to describe ABB’s revamped robotics and training facility in Auburn Hills, MI. The upgraded factory serves as a U.S. hub for developing AI-enabled technology helping businesses respond to labor shortages, global uncertainty and sustainable manufacturing.
Motion Industries, Inc. has signed a definitive purchase agreement to acquire the operating assets of Canadian-based Stoney Creek Hydraulics. The transaction is expected to close at the end of October, subject to customary closing conditions.
Wintriss Controls Group has added flexible and affordable purchase options for ShopFloorConnect OEE, Production Tracking, and Data Collection software, which allows users to quickly and easily leverage data from their machines. ShopFloorConnect is an on-premises software solution that provides timely, accurate, and unbiased data directly from the shop floor for making informed management decisions. Wintriss received a positive response when it debuted the new start-up purchase packages and options at Fabtech 2024. It will also be presenting the packages at Pack Expo 2024, Booth # LU-8431 McCormick Place, Chicago Illinois from November 3 – 6 this year.
Global technology, software and engineering leader Emerson will exhibit its latest Floor to Cloud packaging solutions at Pack Expo Chicago, November 3-6, 2024. Advancing the boundless future of automation, Emerson factory automation solutions and its Floor to Cloud approach empower smarter packaging lines and more efficient processes that make it possible for manufacturers to continuously improve plant productivity, sustainability and safety.
Hottinger Brüel & Kjær (HBK) officially launched Advantage Insights empowered by nCode (Advantage Insights), their latest data analysis tool. Advantage Insights offers a powerful, intuitive solution designed to unlock the full potential of engineering data, by speeding up and simplifying the process of handling this data. Some of the key benefits include:
In recent years, the power engineering manufacturing industry has been undergoing a significant modernization movement, driven by the rapid advancement of robotics, automation, and artificial intelligence. Amazon's recent announcement of its in Shreveport, Louisiana, serves as a prime example of this revolution in action.
Bell-Everman announces that its latest generation of ServoBelt Linear actuators features a design enhancement that simplifies the assembly and installation of long-travel motion systems including gantry and linear robots. The new design, which involves the lower static toothed belt, also strengthens ServoBelt’s ability to non-destructively withstand high-force events, such as carriage crashes.
SICK, international provider of sensor-based automation solutions, has received a Platinum medal in the EcoVadis sustainability ranking. This places SICK among the top 1 percent of more than 130,000 companies worldwide that have been evaluated in the past 12 months. EcoVadis is a leading rating provider in the field of CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) and focusses on transparent and independent review and evaluation of the sustainability management of participating companies.
The increasing demand for compact servo drives in mechanical engineering has led to a corresponding need for smaller gearboxes that are suitable for these drives. In response to this market need, Neugart is introducing three new precision planetary gearboxes in frame size 055: the PSBN055, PSN055, and PSFN055. These new additions extend the proven capabilities of the Precision Line portfolio.
Siemens Digital Industries Software has announced the 2025 release of Solid Edge software, bringing new capabilities to its product development software. The latest release also introduces Solid Edge X software, delivering a cloud-enabled secure Software as a Service (SaaS) environment, enhanced with new AI-enabled tools to help users work smarter.
The applications are too numerous to list in their entirety. Coffee grounds. Eggshell waste. Pomegranates and pineapples. Manure and paper mill sludge. Tobacco. These are just a few of the materials that require dewatering, a process that—as its name suggests—separates fluids from solids, often converting what would otherwise go down the drain or end up in a landfill into saleable products.
Eaton Cummins Automated Transmission Technologies has announced a new era of leadership. Since the joint venture began in 2017, the positions of general manager, deputy general manager, and chief financial officer have alternated every few years among representatives from the parent companies.
Bosch Rexroth will display product technologies and complete factory automation solutions for CPG manufacturing in Booth S-1548 at Pack Expo 2024, November 3-6, in Chicago, Illinois.
With the P-725.xCDE1S focus scanner and the U-781 PILine XY stage system, PI completes its range of positioning systems for fluorescence microscopy applications. The dynamic focus scanner is offered as a complete package including controller and allows travel ranges up to 400 µm. The U-781 XY stage system with controller and joystick is mechanically compatible with inverted microscopes of leading manufacturers and offers interfaces to common microscopy software tools such as µ-Manager, MatLab, LabView, Python, and Nikon NIS Elements—all at an attractive price/performance ratio.
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 threat of corrosion caused from wet or chemical applications is no match for ATRA-FLEX® Nitrocarburized Couplings from U.S. Tsubaki. Learn more about how to significantly improve the lifespan and performance of critical components, providing both cost savings and enhanced reliability.
Tolomatic has introduced five new products to meet a wider range of industrial applications. These five sizes expand the RSX’s capabilities to include forces up to 66,000 lbf (294 kN). These expansion efforts also include updated model numbering, with each number now reflecting the actuator’s thrust. For example, the RSX096 is now the RSX15 with 15-ton thrust.
The globally recognized provider of sustainability ratings, EcoVadis, has awarded the Voith Group the silver medal again this year after 2022. This puts Voith among the top 15 percent of all companies evaluated worldwide. For the rating, EcoVadis examined a total of 130,000 companies from 180 countries and 220 industrial sectors in the four main areas of environment, labor and human rights, ethics and sustainable procurement.
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.
Ruland Manufacturing has expanded its jaw coupling line to meet the demands of high-torque applications, now offering bore sizes up to 1-3/4 in or 45 mm and torque capacities of 2,655 in-lbs. (300 Nm). These new jaw couplings are designed for use in precision systems with high deceleration and acceleration curves, such as those found in semiconductor, solar, conveyor, and warehouse automation applications.
NSK Ltd. has been collaborating with Chitose Group, a group of leading biotechnology companies in the global bioeconomy to undertake business creation activities focused on biomass recycling. This spring, the two companies have achieved a certain level of success, including the sale of a compost production plant developed by both companies, and having paved the way for commercialization, they have decided to strengthen their cooperation for future expansion of this business and co-creation of new businesses.
The S-17-85 Series of “C” Frame Pull Type Solenoids from Magnetic Sensor Systems (MSS) includes 18 different solenoids to select from based on the Voltage, Duty Cycle, Attractive Force (up to 91 oz) and Stroke length requirements of the user. MSS Solenoid coils typically utilize 23 to 40 AWG (American Wire Gauge) windings with Class “F” insulation for better protection of the solenoid during longer duty cycles. Operating voltage range is from 3.0 VDC to 429 VDC, and from 5 to 40 Watts.
The KISSsoft System Module is an intuitive, versatile, and adaptable tool for modeling and analyzing entire gear systems. It is an integral part and module of the KISSsoft software and accelerates sizing and optimization along the whole design process. Considering the needs of customers, KISSsoft's goal is to assist with the migration of the existing models to the System Module and for a smooth transition, it is highly recommended to start with the current release.
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.
As of September 23, 2024, Havlik Gear is changing ownership. Wikov Industry a.s. has acquired Havlik Gear. Wikov is a strong group of companies producing high end gears, gearboxes and complete drives for industrial and turbo applications and for railway vehicles. The company name has changed to Wikov Gear Canada Inc.
Today's demanding industrial applications require compact, robust connectors that can reliably transmit high currents and voltages. binder, a provider of circular connectors, now offers the perfect solution: special flange components act as plug-in partners for the PBC15 cable connector. This combination enables tailored solutions for a wide range of applications, such as in-drive technology.
At MINExpo 2024, Continental recently highlighted solutions tailored for the mining industry, including conveying systems, digital monitoring platforms, fluid hose solutions, and more. These products are designed to withstand the toughest environments while boosting efficiency and productivity.
The Timken Company, a global technology leader in engineered bearings and industrial motion, today appointed Tarak Mehta the company's president and CEO. Mehta was also elected to Timken's Board of Directors.
Continental's CONTI NXT Multi V-belt from the ContiTech group shows it will also be possible to power auxiliary units in cars using renewable raw materials and recycled materials. CONTI NXT Multi V-belt will use tension cords made from recycled PET bottles, a textile cover layer made from organic fibers as well as rubber certified according to the mass balance standard and recycled carbon black. Overall, the belt is made of almost two-thirds of more sustainable materials compared to conventional V-ribbed belts. The CONTI NXT will be available in the spring of 2025, in addition to the conventional Multi V-belts of the Continental brand – initially in 25 different types for the most common repair needs.
Effective October 1st, 2024, Alexander Steinacher will succeed Horst Rettenbacher as CFO at the long-established Austrian company. Rettenbacher has been a member of EMCO's management team since 2012 and, as CFO, played a key role in the machine tool manufacturer's growth to its current size. After handing over his responsibilities to his successor, Rettenbacher will take his well-deserved retirement.
Based on the proven ROBA-DS steel disk pack coupling, Mayr Power Transmission developed a weight-optimized aluminum version. Compared to the steel version, the outer diameter of this new design has been reduced by up to 10 mm; the mass and mass inertia range from 40 to 60 percent of the steel version, depending on the design and size. The performance density, however, remains unchanged. It is tailored to meet the requirements of high-speed applications, for example in the field of test bench technology.
Fenner Precision Polymers recently announced the formal launch of a new strategic realignment of the company structure. Fenner Precision Polymers' transformation is designed to benefit customers by enhancing their overall experience. Built on a new global product family approach, the realignment aims to simplify interactions, reduce complexity, and build trust across different products and regions. The global family of brands are now organized under one of three product families: Industrial Motion, High-Tech Coated Fabrics, and Air & Fluid Handling.
KUKA Robotics will feature two advanced medical innovations designed to reduce work-related injury for healthcare workers and cut time-to-market for medical device OEMs at HLTH 2024, Oct. 20 – 23, in Las Vegas, Nevada. Visitors to booth 3928 in the Venetian Expo Center will see how KUKA’s LBR iisy cobot solution helps reduce the incidence of arm and shoulder injury to ultrasound technicians and sonographers. A second solution demonstration will feature a KUKA Robot Development Kit using a LBR MED 14 R820 cobot that can slash solution development time by months.
Festo has launched a clean energy project at its North American Regional Service Center along I-71. Roof-mounted solar panels will supply 48 percent of the facility’s electricity requirements – 2.6 million kilowatt hours (kWh) – after completion of the project, which is slated for next year. One of Ohio’s leading solar power companies, Kokosing Solar Power, Athens, Ohio, is the project’s general contractor.
Explore cutting-edge robotic solutions designed to optimize your packaging operations, enhance efficiency, and boost productivity. From palletizing to picking and packing, Yaskawa (Booth #N-5736) collaborative and industrial robots deliver precision and flexibility for any job.
In today's fast-paced production environments, picking and packing operations demand uninterrupted speed, reliability, accuracy and dexterity—all while maintaining critical food safety. Built with the highest quality standards to ensure unparalleled precision, FANUC cobots and robots deliver reliability and accuracy that minimizes error, reduces product waste and enhances overall quality control.
Horsburgh & Scott, a global leader in the design and manufacturing of custom-engineered gearing solutions, is pleased to announce it has launched a Pulp & Paper division, dedicated to delivering high-performance gearing solutions to pulp and paper mills worldwide.
New general-purpose AC drives have been added to the IronHorse brand. These new VFDs support three control modes, including V/Hz, slip compensation, and sensorless vector, and come in various voltage and horsepower ratings at a very affordable price.
Recently I’ve had a number of people tell me how much they enjoy our work here at PTE. While it’s always nice to receive “attaboys,” these recent unsolicited compliments have been both thoughtful and specific, which is especially gratifying because they validate many of the choices we make as publishers.
The increasing cost of food and beverage machinery makes running equipment to failure not just impractical, but potentially devastating to your bottom line. However, there are solutions that can lead to significant savings, and an often overlooked one is implementing an effective lubrication program. A well-structured program delivers a trifecta of benefits: reduced downtime, a cleaner and safer work environment, and easier compliance with the stringent regulations of the food processing industry.
Organized by the Turbomachinery Laboratory at Texas A&M University, the annual Turbomachinery and Pump Symposia (TPS)—the 53rd Turbomachinery and 40th International Pump Users—event was held August 20–22, at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston.
With over 2,500 exhibitors occupying 1.3 million net square feet, Pack Expo promises solutions catering to over 40 vertical markets. Expectations also forecast a convergence of more than 45,000 attendees from global consumer packaged goods and life sciences companies.
Closed Loop control systems can handle a wide range of motions with a wide range of loads if the control system and mechanics are properly designed for the task. A couple of the more difficult combinations to design for are high inertial mismatches and backlash with hard gearing. The question is not just how to make the system stable, but rather how to also get the desired performance.
I would like to briefly discuss some thoughts on ball bearing efficiency specifically in terms of applied load and resulting stress. I don’t want to trivialize this subject; there are textbooks written on the subjects of electrohydrodynamic lubrication (EHL), octahedral subsurface shear stress and friction losses due to elastic hysteresis. This is a just a high-level discussion on the importance of individual bearing stress on efficiency.
I recently discovered a 2016 exhibition hosted by the Guggenheim Museum that left an indelible mark on the contemporary art scene—Sun Yuan and Peng Yu’s installation titled “Can’t Help Myself.” This piece, a chilling convergence of technology, human emotion, and social commentary, showcased the artistic duo’s ability to transform complex concepts into visceral experiences. Through its profound simplicity, the installation raised questions about control, autonomy, and the human condition in an increasingly automated world.
Kollmorgen has released its new PCMM2G programmable motion controller.
ABB is opening its NEMA Motors Division world headquarters in Fort Smith, Arkansas, to the local community on Thursday, October 3, in celebration of Manufacturing Day (MFG Day), officially observed on Friday, October 4. This open house event is intended to educate and inspire students, parents, educators and community leaders about the future of manufacturing careers. ABB plans to engage with attendees through facility tours, demonstrating the industry’s critical role in driving innovation and highlighting diverse, sustainable career paths.
The Power Transmission Distributors Association (PTDA) welcomes new distributor member Eastern Sales and new associate member Proton.ai.
At InnoTrans, SKF showcased tapered roller bearings for enhanced reliability of gearbox applications and cylindrical roller bearing units for increased longevity of freight train wheelsets.
Mantis, a provider of warehouse management and logistics solutions, is delighted to announce the appointment of Nikos Silivestros as its new CEO. Silivestros possesses extensive experience and a proven track record of driving organizational growth and leading teams to notable achievements, particularly within the supply chain industry.
Global challenges and industrial competitiveness are having an impact on the training and continuous education of skilled workers and students. In addition to theoretical principles, practical knowledge is also in demand, particularly with regard to digitized and networked manufacturing processes. Virtual learning factories based on 3D simulation platforms offer interesting possibilities when it comes to Industry 4.0: The Mechatronic Simulation Wall developed by MHJ Software GmbH & Co. KG is a mirror image of real mechatronic systems and can include up to four different stations, e.g. magazine, processing, quality assurance and sorting. This type of configuration makes it possible to program each station individually, or run the entire system, which opens up a wide range of learning scenarios with varying degrees of complexity.
OES (Optimal Engineering Systems, Inc.) has added vertical stages to their extensive line of high accuracy, high resolution lift stages. The Z110 Series of Z-axis Stages are available in travel strokes of 15 mm (0.590 in.), 30 mm (1.181 in.), 50 mm (1.969 in.), and 75 mm (2.953 in). These black anodized aluminum alloy stages feature preloaded crossed roller bearings and 1 mm per motor turn lead screws.
Coverage of IMTS and MINExpo International will continue on the PTE website through the end of the year and into 2025. We're excited to share the stories and new technologies discussed at both trade shows in September.
Sumitomo Drive Technologies, a brand of Sumitomo Machinery Corporation of America, received the 2024 National Metalworking Reshoring Award. The award was given in recognition of Sumitomo Drive Technologies’ success in bringing manufacturing to the United States through foreign direct investment and to Mexico via nearshoring. The 2024 award was presented on Sept. 13, 2024, at IMTS – The International Manufacturing Technology Show at McCormick Place in Chicago by Harry Moser, founder and president of the Reshoring Initiative.
At MINExpo, Dana Incorporated debuted a new certified remanufacturing program for Dana Spicer Off-Highway drivetrain components that extends equipment life cycles, supports sustainability initiatives, and improves return on investment.
ABB Robotics has launched Ultra Accuracy, a new feature for its GoFa cobot family that delivers the highest level of precision available in cobots, enabling over 10 times greater path accuracy vs. other cobots on the market.
Nine months into building the most powerful test bench for main bearings to date, R&D Test Systems, Denmark’s wind turbine test specialist, has completed the 3,700 metric ton foundation and is now designing and welding the test bench parts that will perform extreme test loads on main bearings for 25 MW wind turbines. With delivery in 2025, the test bench is bound for LORC’s new main bearing test facility.
CONEXPO-CON/AGG is excited to announce the release of its latest e-book, “4 Steps to Hiring and Retaining the Best Workers”, designed to help construction business owners attract and retain the best skilled talent. This free comprehensive guide offers strategies and tips proven to help companies find, hire, and develop the right employees, ultimately enhancing productivity and maintaining high-quality standards.
The Smart Function Kit Pressing, a complete mechatronic package from Bosch Rexroth for the quick realization of servo presses, is now available with force control. This means that it is now also possible to perform processes in which the target force must be kept constant over a defined period of time. Intelligent e-tools speed up the selection and configuration of the modular servo press. The pre-installed operating software facilitates quick and easy commissioning, process definition, and line integration.
Truth be told, there are few components as versatile as the gearmotor. We find them in AGVs, AMRs, and robotics. They can also be found in automation equipment, industrial drive solutions and material handling applications. Four key trends involving gearmotors today include the simplification in design and installation, quiet and energy efficient performance, predictive maintenance and condition monitoring—and lastly—the ability to perform at the highest levels in hazardous and demanding applications.
ABB Robotics recently announced its sponsorship of MassRobotics, the leading innovation hub and startup accelerator for robotics in the United States.
With the launch of its Inspector83x 2D vision sensor, SICK has enabled out-of-the-box Artificial Intelligence machine vision inspections for common inline inspection tasks in demanding high-speed production.
Gates is continuing to drive innovation for the data center cooling market with the upcoming launch of the Data Master Data Center Cooling Hose. This fluid conveyance solution, a result of Gates Eco-Innovation process, is a further expansion into data center liquid cooling applications which are a rapidly growing segment within data center cooling driven by compute-intensive applications such as Artificial Intelligence.
AD is proud to announce that Mark Balcom, president and owner of Pooley Inc., has been elected to its Bearings & Power Transmission Divisional Board, effective August 2024.
Today’s pace of technological change defies description. I keep hearing that we’re in the middle of the next transformative leap in manufacturing, and with all the advances in robotics, automation, condition monitoring and artificial intelligence (AI), it’s hard to argue that we’re not. But it seems to me the pace of change is too fast for mere leaps and bounds. Industry 4.0 used to be a new thing, but we seemed to have skipped Industry 5.0 and are now talking about Industry 6.0 and beyond. By the time we stop long enough to define where we are, we’re no longer there.
MINExpo boasts 1,900+ companies involved in the global mining industry. Opening sessions allow the industry to come together to debate global challenges, market fluctuations and the future of mining. Resources include exploration, mine site development, open pit mining, underground mining, smelting and refining, processing and preparation and reclamation. Here’s a sample of the companies exhibiting and the products/technologies they will be featuring in Las Vegas from September 24–26, 2024.
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.
CCTY (Lake Zurich, IL) is a manufacturer of high-performance motion control and assemblies including spherical plain bearings, rod ends, mast guide bearings, self-lubricating bearings, tie rods, ball joints and more. CCTY is a full-service global engineering and consulting partner that helps customers quickly turn new product ideas into reality. PTE recently discussed the company’s evolution with Yaman Obaid, a mechanical engineer specializing in robotics for CCTY.
Siemens’ annual event Realize LIVE Americas never fails to disappoint on the technology front. Automation, AI, IIoT, the Industrial Metaverse, additive manufacturing—you name the technology—Siemens has it covered. The factory of the future is no different. The company spends a great deal of time discussing smart manufacturing, analytics and services examining what a typical shop floor might look like in 15–20 years.
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.
UGRacing is the University of Glasgow’s Formula Student team. Since its inception in 2005, the team has been working to compete at Formula Student UK (FSUK). Over the last decade, the team has grown to over 150 members across ten disciplines. With a strong focus on knowledge transfer and iterative design, the team has worked year after year to develop new technologies and a more refined package. In 2022, the team saw a culmination of all their hard work when they placed first overall in FSUK with their final internal combustion vehicle. The following switch to an electric powertrain brought new challenges. Through the constraint of a new powertrain architecture, the team has explored and innovated drivetrain concepts which, in future years, will improve vehicle performance.
Have you ever been confused about pipe thread nomenclature? Have you wondered what is the difference between NPT and PT? What about BSPT? If you have asked these questions or similar ones, you’re not alone and this paper is for you! Several different pipe thread designations are used around the world, and some are equivalent or compatible while others are not.
There’s no such thing as “Too Much Information” when it comes to warfare. Lockheed Martin believes it’s critical in today’s global landscape for a warfighter to act on information as soon as it is available. Leveraging the strengths of manned/unmanned teaming enables rapid action during combat situations. With the assistance of AI, this has the potential to increase situational awareness and improve combat efficiency and effectiveness for any warfighter.
The American Clean Power Association (ACP) has released its Clean Power Quarterly Market Report | Q2 2024, showcasing extraordinary growth and milestones across the U.S. clean power landscape. In a record-breaking second quarter, U.S. developers added 11 gigawatts (GW) of new utility-scale clean power capacity, marking a 91 percent increase from Q2 2023.
Applied Motion Products introduces the CPBD-A-C remote control module that connects to the back of the CSM34 Conveyor Smart Motor and can be mounted where conveyor operators can easily access it.
Regal Rexnord Corporation has added two new models to its portfolio of Boston Gear Gen2 SS700 Series stainless steel worm gearboxes. The new sizes bring the full product lineup to seven. A larger output shaft bore expands the number of applications each model of gearbox can support, providing flexibility and versatility for customers in a range of industries, including food, beverage and pharmaceuticals.
Eaton will be displaying a number of transmissions for both traditional and electrified commercial vehicles at IAA Transportation, September 17–22, in Hannover, Germany.
ZF Wind Power has announced a major milestone for the Indian market: the total production of 50 GW gearbox capacity at its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Coimbatore, India. This achievement underlines ZF’s commitment to India's renewable energy landscape, while strengthening their position as a strategic partner on the road to a sustainable future.
High reliability, extended cycle life and greater design flexibility – these are the benefits of the innovative prismatic battery cell solutions from Freudenberg Sealing Technologies. Both the cell caps and the nonwoven cell stack envelopes provide manufacturers with significant technical advantages and support the global shift to battery-powered electromobility.
The Olympic Games in Paris are over – now another French metropolis is taking center stage: Lyon will host the 47th WorldSkills from September 10 to 15, 2024. The WorldSkills Championships will bring together more than 1,500 young people from over 65 countries and regions to compete in 62 competitions.
Every two years since 1950, young skilled workers from all over the world have competed in the WorldSkills Championships. They measure their skills in the individual trades in accordance with the demanding WorldSkills standards. The participants qualify beforehand through a national selection process.
Zero-Max has added to their field-proven ServoClass Flexible Shaft Coupling line with the introduction of the new ServoClass-HSN Coupling to address noise and vibration issues that can be experienced in certain high gain, high speed stepper/servomotor applications.
Rockwell Automation presents the webinar "Going Beyond the State of Smart Manufacturing Report-Part Two: Smart Manufacturing Technology Initiatives - Putting Quality First" on Thursday, September 19, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. CT. This webinar will allow attendees to explore how AI-powered smart manufacturing optimizes processes, reduces waste, and drives excellence.
Calculating the strength of a transmission requires handle various load levels in a load spectrum. The load spectrum includes all system boundaries, namely all power inputs and power outputs. Additionally, a transmission includes synchronizers, clutches, and brakes to manage different operating modes.
NTN, the parent company of BCA Bearings, has announced the launch of the BCA Wheel Hub with Hardware Kits product line. The initial launch of this new product line includes 27 new SKUs for popular import and domestic applications and represents coverage for over 16.3 million vehicles in operation.
The Timken Company has issued its corporate social responsibility (CSR) report, providing an update on the company's actions to improve the lives of individuals and communities, benefit the planet and strengthen its business.
New High Precision Dual-axis ZVR-60-60 Series of Lift and Pitch Stages have been released by Optimal Engineering Systems, Inc. (OES). These compact stages feature 60 mm +/- 2 mm (2.362 in. +/- 0.078 in.) of vertical travel and a vertically mounted rotary stage. The scissor lift design combined with precision roller bearings and slide rails assures smooth motion and very high parallelism throughout the raising and lowering of the table. The Rotary Stage is capable of continuous 360 degrees CW or CCW rotation.
Physik Instrumente (PI) inaugurated the PI Technology Hub in Karlsruhe, Germany in July. On an area of 500 sqm, the hub offers space for ten employees of the central department “Global Research” as well as ten additional places for more extensive project work and for Ph.D. students and working students. It is equipped with special laboratories to allow for hands-on experiments. The strategic proximity to the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) and other research institutions will promote an intensive exchange and close cooperation.
The Timken Company recently announced the appointment of Todd M. Leombruno to its board of directors. The election will bring The Timken Company board to 11 members.
M.G.M. Electric IEC standard motors and brake motors are manufactured using state-of-the-art, high-quality processes and are rated for general-purpose and inverter duty. IEC motors provide the same power output as NEMA motors but have a smaller footprint and feature a lightweight aluminum construction.
Motion Industries, Inc. is pleased to announce a new Motion Repair & Services location at 20710 Sharmon Road, Houston, Texas, 77038. The new shop, which is entirely dedicated to repair and services, is slated to open in September 2024.
Redex USA is pleased to announce it will showcase its portfolio of high-performance drives for machine tool applications at IMTS Level 3, Booth #236016.
When manufacturing leaders, job shop owners, engineers, and designers want to see what their operations might look like in the near future, one of their must-visit destinations is AMT’s Emerging Technology Center (ETC) at IMTS – The International Manufacturing Technology Show. IMTS 2024 runs Sept. 9-14 at Chicago’s McCormick Place.
Our next legacy entry is maxon, a global leading provider of electric drive systems. The company provides single-source DC and BLDC motors, gearheads, sensors, control electronics, mechatronic drive systems and more-from individual prototypes to large-scale production. The history of maxon begins with Interelectric AG in Frankfurt.
Motion plastics component provider igus GmbH recently announced its participation in the International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) 2024. The trade show will be held Sept. 9-14 at McCormick Place in Chicago, IL.
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.
The Electrical Apparatus Service Association (EASA) honored John S. Allen, managing director, Sheppard Engineering Limited, with the 2024 EASA Exceptional Achievement Service Award.
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.
ABB is equipping the next generation of professionals for advanced technology manufacturing by partnering with Arkansas Tech University’s Ozark campus to launch a career-readiness program. This collaborative workforce development initiative will offer a curriculum focused on automation technology, air conditioning and refrigeration.
Siemens Digital Industries Software has announced that the Orient Express Racing Team is using the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio of industry software to aid in preparation for upcoming 37th America’s Cup and to gain competitive advantage.
Mitsubishi Electric Automation, Inc. is celebrating 50 Years of “The Difference in Your Machining” at the International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) from September 9-14 in Chicago. Since 1974, Mitsubishi Electric Automation has been supporting the Machine Tool industry through service and repair and is celebrating with a gold-themed booth, giveaways, and new machine tending solutions.
Freudenberg Sealing Technologies has made significant technological improvements to its seals for central tire inflation systems (CTIS) used by construction and agricultural machinery. These seals automatically adjust the tire pressure of off-highway vehicles to varying ground conditions and vehicle loads. Simply by pressing a button, drivers can now save time, reduce CO2 emissions and simultaneously extend the service life of their tires.
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.
Liebherr will be sharing its latest news, products, services, and innovations for the mining sector at the world’s largest mining exhibition, MINExpo International, this September. Visitors will experience over 29,000 sq. ft of Liebherr exhibits at Booth #7832. Daily masterclasses and live demonstrations will take place at the Liebherr booth each day, showcasing the company’s latest product updates and providing insights into these technologies and services with the latest information from the field.
Since its introduction in 2019, Yaskawa’s GA800 variable speed drive has proven itself as the ultimate combination of power, ease of use, flexibility, and performance.
The development of the new cast-iron totally enclosed fan cooled (TEFC) severe duty motor marks the second phase of ABB’s SP4 technology launch. This model is uniquely designed for applications in hazardous environments with certifications for Division 2 and Class I Groups A, B, C, D, as well as Class II Groups F, and G, making it suitable for areas with explosive gases and combustible dust. The model also features an IP55 rating, ensuring protection against dust and water spray, making it reliable for harsh and dirty conditions. ABB previously introduced two different models with SP4 technology: rolled steel open drip proof and totally enclosed fan cooled motors.
SKF has signed an agreement to acquire John Sample Group’s (JSG) Lubrication and Flow Management businesses. JSG is a well-established provider of lubrication management systems and services. The acquisition further strengthens SKF’s offering in an identified growth segment, as well as its business operations in the expansive India and South-East Asia (ISEA) region.
Motion Industries, Inc., a distributor of maintenance, repair and operation replacement parts, and a premier provider of industrial technology solutions, signed a definitive purchase agreement to acquire the operating assets of Canadian-based LSI Supply Inc. and its sister company 273 Ontario (which trades as LSI). The transaction is expected to close later this month, subject to customary closing conditions.
Dual loop control is often used to improve the performance of a motion control system. Although this appears more complex at first look, the overall system cost and complexity needed to reach the desired level of precision may often be significantly reduced. In the example system, mechanical stiffness was improved by a factor of approximately 100 by the use of a secondary feedback device.In the case of a single loop lead screw system, the feedback is usually located on the back of the motor.
Red Lion is pleased to announce the launch of two new programmable Remote Terminal Units (RTUs), VT-MIPM-138-D and VT-MIPM-248-D. Equipped with onboard I/O and designed for uncompromising performance in extreme environments, the industrial controllers are ideal for a wide range of rugged, process-oriented applications in water and wastewater processing, oil and gas production and other advanced automation settings.
As the world celebrates the Olympic Games this month, Vesconite Bearings is reminded of a remarkable achievement in its history—the production of the largest bearing it has ever created.
The company Norelem, a global manufacturer and supplier of standard components for mechanical engineering and industrial applications, is set to open a new facility in the United States. This expansion represents a significant step in Norelem's international growth strategy and its commitment to better serving its customers in the United States.
For different types of cranes and load ranges, Nord Drivesystems offers properly dimensioned drive solutions from a single source. For that, the company can rely on locations in more than 80 countries. In Poland, the specialist for hoisting equipment Protea relies on the crane & cargo competence of the complete supplier from North Germany.
Dr. Fritz Faulhaber GmbH & CO. KG with headquarters in Schönaich has received the TOP 100 Seal 2024. Science journalist Ranga Yogeshwar has been a mentor of the competition for 12 years and personally congratulated Faulhaber on this success at the award ceremony on June 28.
Schneider Electric announces major enhancements to EcoStruxure Resource Advisor, a versatile enterprise software suite of solutions designed to empower global companies across efficiency, ESG, energy and risk, and renewables and carbon. This strategic evolution from a platform of stand-alone solutions to an integrated and multifaceted suite addresses the rapidly maturing market and the increasing complexity of corporate sustainability needs.
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).
Ringspann Corporation has unveiled its latest innovation – the Universal Joint Program. Designed to provide unparalleled efficiency and durability, the program offers a range of universal joints that promise seamless power transmission and flexibility across multiple industries.
If you want to identify one trend in the field of shaft-hub-connections, this is it: The use of frictional shrink discs is gaining traction in mechanical and plant engineering. The main reason for this is probably that - in contrast to positive shaft-hub-connections with a keyway - considerably higher torques can be transmitted and many designs can therefore be made smaller. This correlates with the desire of many users for increasingly compact drives. A more detailed analysis also reveals that at present it is primarily shrink discs in a two-part design that have caught the eye of designers of industrial drive systems.
With the TwinCAT Runtime for Linux, Beckhoff is opening up new application possibilities for real-time control. In the future, several TwinCAT Runtimes can be executed on a single industrial PC for the first time, enabling users to combine different system parts on one large computer, for example. With this hardware consolidation, computing resources are better utilized. Furthermore, accessing a GPU (graphics card) from the real-time environment will be possible, which is used as a hardware accelerator for particularly computing-intensive applications such as vision.
Mechanical design engineers planning a drivetrain typically have a range of component options to choose from, and many decisions will boil down to the specific application. When it comes to creating optimal torque output, rotational speed and direction, few decisions are as important in designing high performing gear drives as choosing the right gear for the job.
Portescap highlights the B16C gearbox as an ideal solution for optimizing infusion pump designs. This innovative spur gearing solution is tailored for engineers aiming to optimize their infusion pumps without sacrificing performance or reliability. The B16C's compact design reduces the overall length by 3 to 4 mm compared to similar motor/gearbox composites, making it an ideal choice for space-constrained applications.
Soft Robotics Inc. announced the divestiture of its gripper business assets to the Schmalz Group for an undisclosed sum. The company also announced that it has reformed as Oxipital AI, with a mission to deliver its transformative AI technology to customers in critical industries, enabling an entirely new generation of resilient, efficient, and sustainable manufacturing.
The Timken Company has agreed to acquire CGI Inc., a Nevada-based manufacturer of precision drive systems serving a broad range of automation markets with a concentration in medical robotics. The deal is subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approval, and is expected to close in the third quarter.
We’re in the middle of industrial trade show season, and our team has been traveling to various events around the country to uncover the most relevant new technology related to power transmission and motion control. But we’re not done yet. In fact, I’d like to call your attention to two upcoming events that are of particular note.
Gear drives are fundamental in most processing operations, connecting the prime mover to the driven equipment and ensuring that the system has enough torque to effectively move product. Correctly specifying and selecting the proper gear drives for critical applications leads to reliability, greater uptime and profitability.
Predictive analytics will be all over IMTS 2024 including the Automation Sector, accelerated by SPS—smart production solutions. Visitors will find a broad range of digital solutions at IMTS 2024 at McCormick Place in Chicago on Sept. 9–14.
A roller chain can handle a lot of weight, but it has some significant downsides. It’s noisy and needs regular maintenance. It’s expensive, and when it breaks, workers can be injured. Even its performance is a problem.
Demand for specialty wire and cable—fueled in part by data center expansion as well as new charging stations for electric vehicles (EVs)—is in turn creating greater demand for cable production capacity. As you design machines that will satisfy the demand, you’ll want to incorporate an effective driving method that controls speed and torque with the highest precision.
Motorized rotary tables RTLA-100-350HJ from Intellidrives features IP65 rated ingress protection. IP65 rating assures against ingress of dust and water jets against the rotary table surface. The hollow shaft table is integrated with a high rigidity cross-roller bearing. This structure improves permissible thrust load and moment load while maintaining high torque.
Siemens Digital Industries Software recently announced that Panasonic Corporation (“Panasonic”) has started to adopt its Teamcenter X software, a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) cloud product lifecycle management (PLM) solution from the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio of industry software to accelerate its digitalization in product development and design.
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.
The R-09-150 CWN Series of Clockwise, Reverse Shaft Extension Rotary Solenoids from Magnetic Sensor Systems (MSS), available in OEM quantities, features 18 different winding configurations allowing the user to match torque and duty cycle requirements to an application. These compact 38.1 mm (1.50 in.) diameter solenoids are just 22.1 mm (0.87 in.) long and have two M4X0.7 threaded studs (8-32 studs optional) 7.4 mm (0.29 in.) long on a 22.2 mm (0.875 in.) bolt circle. The reverse shaft has 40 degrees of clockwise rotation, extending 13.0 mm (0.51 in.). Shaft end is serrated for better grip of the attached load.
Traditionally, drive technology and fluid power has been represented at Hannover Messe by a large number of companies from Germany and abroad, especially in odd-numbered years. This will also be the case in 2025 when manufacturers will present their latest applications and components for intelligent and sustainable production. All this, under the Motion & Drives label, will be focused in Halls 4, 5 and 6.
Columbus McKinnon will be consolidating its North American Duff Norton linear motion production activities from Charlotte, NC, with its new, state-of-the-art North American Manufacturing Center of Excellence in Monterrey, Mexico. By the end of September 2024, all production of Duff Norton linear motion products will occur out of this new facility.
Emerson has announced the new Series D update to the family of proven SolaHD industrial rack mount on-line uninterruptible power supplies (UPSs). The new SolaHD S4KD Series replaces the current S4KC Series, offering significant user interface improvements and other design upgrades to increase reliability and product availability. The S4KD is an on-line (double conversion) UPS, providing a zero-transfer time from external to internal power upon utility power failure to deliver a seamless flow of power for critical loads. The S4KD is available in 1000-3000 VA in 120 V and 3000 VA in 230 V configurations, each housed in a slim 2U form factor.
The ABB Baldor-Reliance EC Titanium motor has been recognized with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s 2024 ENERGY STAR Emerging Technology Award. This annual award recognizes products that meet stringent performance criteria in specific categories. By highlighting innovative solutions with the potential to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the award promotes promising technologies that may not yet fully align with the ENERGY STAR certification requirements or may be relatively more complex to properly install and operate.
Wind turbines have a decisive role to play in the expansion of renewable energy. Schaeffler is a market leader and strategic development partner in the wind technology industry, leveraging closed loop engineering to play a key role that goes far beyond the provision of bearing solutions for on- and offshore wind. Working in close partnership with turbine and gearbox manufacturers, the company supports wind turbine development through state-of-the art system simulation, realistic test-bench testing, and field measurement campaigns.
The landscape of the global precision gearbox and geared motor market is undergoing significant transformation and is expected to grow by over 10 percent in 2025, as it recovers from an earlier than anticipated dip in 2023 and 2024. According to the latest data from market intelligence specialist Interact Analysis, strong demand will generate a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.9 percent - with the market increasing from $3.29 billion to $4.8 billion - between 2023 and 2028.
The Power Transmission Distributors Association (PTDA) held its annual Canadian Conference in Niagara Falls, Canada on June 4-6. Nearly 130 power transmission/motion control (PT/MC) manufacturers and distributors doing business in Canada met to participate in networking and presentations aimed to expand opportunities for business growth.
Measure angles or move to a precise angular position with a new series of high precision, low cost XYHG Multi-axis Stages that can be easily integrated into new and existing applications from OES (Optimal Engineering Systems).
Mitsubishi Electric Corporation recently announced that it had been awarded a Guinness World Records title on May 21, 2024, for the fastest robot to solve a puzzle cube using the TOKUI Fast Accurate Synchronized Motion Testing Robot (TOKUFASTbot). The previous record of 0.38 seconds was trumped by TOKUFASTbot's time of 0.305 seconds.
The manufacturing industry often sets the trends for technology adoption in industrial settings. For example, the automation journey began a half-century ago with the first industrial robot — a 2,700-pound behemoth Unimate prototype — installed in a GM factory in 1959. Since then, robotics technology has significantly evolved and expanded beyond traditional manufacturing. Today, robots are integral to various industries, undertaking tasks like automated bricklaying in construction, efficient goods handling in logistics and warehousing and critical functions such as dispensing medication within hospitals.
Mona Neubaur, deputy prime minister and minister of economic affairs of North Rhine-Westphalia, recently presented the NRW.Global Business Award 2024 to Flender CEO Andreas Evertz. Flender was one of four winners honored at the 20th anniversary of the Award at the K21 Ständehaus in Düsseldorf.
SKF is providing key components for the next generation Very Large Array (ngVLA), a $2 billion telescope system that aims to peer deeper into the universe than ever before.
Siemens Digital Industries Software offers Zel X software, a next generation browser-based engineering app for streamlining manufacturing and shop-floor operations. Zel X consolidates software for manufacturing, operations, collaboration, design and simulation into a comprehensive, yet lightweight browser-based solution that delivers value instantly.
The Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers (STLE) is pleased to announce the release of its new free digital special report, Sustainability Opportunities for Tribology.
MINExpo boasts 1,900+ companies involved in the global mining industry. Opening sessions allow the industry to come together to debate global challenges, market fluctuations and the future of mining. Resources include exploration, mine site development, open pit mining, underground mining, smelting and refining, processing and preparation and reclamation.
Fanuc America has officially unveiled its new 650,000 square foot West Campus facility in Auburn Hills, Michigan. The expansion increases the footprint in Michigan to over 2 million square feet and is part of Fanuc America’s strategic investment plan to support and advance industrial automation in North America. The West Campus represents a $110 million investment built on 67 acres of land.
ABB has launched its new OmniVance Collaborative Machine Tending Cell, providing a complete integrated solution for automated machine tending that is easy to program, install and use. The standardized solution combines a collaborative GoFa 12 robot and user-friendly software in a compact solution for fast installation and easy operation.
NTN Bearing Corporation of America is pleased to share the story of a recent Community Spirit & Engagement Event at Oakland HOPE in Pontiac, MI. On Tuesday, June 25, a group of eleven NTN employees, based out of the NTN Automotive Center (NAC) in Farmington Hills, MI, volunteered to spend the day at the food pantry assisting local families in need.
Ruland Manufacturing continues to expand its motion control coupling product line by introducing bellows couplings with increased misalignment capabilities. These new bellows couplings complement Ruland’s existing high-stiffness line by offering equivalent torque with greater misalignment flexibility.
SEW-Eurodrive announces the launch of XMiner Industrial Gear Units, specifically designed for the rigorous demands of mining and aggregates applications including conveyor systems, crushers, and apron feeders. Built on the trusted X.e series platform, the XMiner units are now available with local engineering, stocking, and assembly in Wellford, South Carolina, ensuring quick and reliable support for North American customers. The XMiner Industrial Gear Units are tailored to meet the high-performance requirements of mining operations.
Bonfiglioli USA recently celebrated its 25th anniversary. While the company’s roots in North America trace back to Canada in 1986, Bonfiglioli USA’s establishment in 1999 marked a significant expansion and solidified its presence in the United States.
A new version of the MESYS shaft and rolling bearing analysis software including new functionality is available. The bearing analysis software allows the calculation of the load distribution within the bearing and bearing life according to ISO/TS 16281 and it is integrated in a shaft system calculation with additional possibilities like modal analysis, strength calculation for shafts and interfaces to gear calculations. Currently the software is used by customers in 32 countries on 4 continents.
Becoming an industry-leading manufacturer of motion control and power transmission components came quickly for Zero-Max by being responsive to customer’s needs with innovative products and exceptional service. Its first product was a unique Mechanical Variable Speed Drive that solved application challenges in varied industries, with many of these drives still in use 75 years later.
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.
Thomson Industries, Inc. has added advanced controllability options to its Electrak LL line of long-life electric linear actuators. In addition to the 600 km of maintenance-free life and 100% duty cycle performance inherent to all the Electrak LL models, machine designers can now get absolute position feedback, CAN bus integration, reduced current flow and higher speeds.
Today’s emphasis on sustainability and the circular economy may leave some manufacturers wondering, "Can I really get the results I need while increasing my use of biobased content?” Cortec shares two viable rust preventatives that allow users to go as high as 72 or 99 percent biobased content for metals protection in humid environments
Members of the Power Transmission Distributors Association (PTDA) will gather at The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, CO., for the 2024 Industry Summit on October 24-26. This year’s program—“Broadening Horizons. Elevating Excellence.”—will do just that, expand participant’s knowledge of leading-edge trends and solutions for tackling industry challenges, along with opportunities to network with peers.
Siemens Digital Industries Software has announced the latest updates to its NX software from the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio bringing new and enhanced capabilities to Siemens’ flagship product engineering software that aim to help designers and manufacturers across all industries deliver better, optimized products to market faster.
The Timken Company has been recognized among Newsweek's America's Greatest Workplaces and U.S. News & World Report's Best Companies to Work For. The Newsweek ranking is based on a study by data research firm Plant-A Insights, which collected over 1.5 million comprehensive company reviews from more than 250,000 employees. U.S. News determined its list using a combination of publicly available information, and industry classification benchmark standards.
WD Bearing Group recently launched a new joint venture specializing in the R&D and production of precision angular contact ball bearings with a precision level above P4. These high-precision bearings are designed for use in machine tool spindles, industrial robot reducers, construction machinery travel reducers, and compressors.
NSK Ltd. has revised its basic dynamic load ratings, a parameter used to calculate the estimated life of rolling bearings. This revision, which extends the basic rating life (estimated life) of the main types of NSK rolling bearings, applies the “Highly Accurate Bearing Life Prediction Method Applying Ultrasonic Testing (World's First)” announced in March 2023.
Ebm‑Papst Inc. has announced a significant expansion at its manufacturing and engineering facility in Farmington, Connecticut, showcasing the company's dedication to bolstering local production capabilities and fostering workforce growth. The approximately $3 million project entails a substantial 14,500-square-foot extension to the existing facility. Central to this expansion is the revitalization of the Tooling Center—the division responsible for crafting equipment used in manufacturing at both locations in Connecticut and Tennessee.
Ketterer i-Wheel 3213 wheel hub drives have been specially developed for use in Automated Guided Vehicles (AGV). They are designed as direct drives that are completely integrated in the hub and therefore need neither an additional gearbox nor an extra wheel.
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.
Nidec’s U.S. Motors division recently promoted two long-time staffers to senior roles. Cory Kniepp is now director, strategic planning and marketing operations, and Patrick Hogg is senior marketing director, industrial OEMs and distribution. The U.S. Motors brand offers electric motors featuring advanced technology, from variable speed electronically commutated motors to NEMA Premium efficient motors.
Bosch Rexroth recently highlighted new drive and actuation technology during the Hydrogen Technology Expo 2024 in Houston. This exhibition and conference examined advanced technologies for the hydrogen and fuel cell industry.
Schaeffler has recognized 23 suppliers for outstanding performance with the Schaeffler Supplier Award at this year’s Supplier Day in Herzogenaurach. In front of 450 guests, Georg F. W. Schaeffler, family shareholder and chairman of the supervisory board of Schaeffler AG, and Klaus Rosenfeld, chief executive officer of Schaeffler AG, presented the awards in the five categories of Innovation, Sustainability, Value, Quality, and Supply Chain.
NSK has developed a practical magnetostrictive torque sensor (3rd-generation sensor) for automobiles which enables failure prediction, a comfortable ride, extension of driving mileage and performance improvement thanks to its weight-reducing and space-saving features, while also shortening the development period.
Despite unprecedented energy challenges, 68 percent of oil and gas industry leaders express optimism for sector growth in the coming year. This confidence, revealed in a survey by DNV, underscores the sector's resilience as it balances immediate demands with long-term environmental responsibilities.
Vesconite Bearings recently received an order for 60 spherical Vesconite Hilube liners. This order came after less than one year of initial testing.
The European Southern Observatory’s Extremely Large Telescope (ESO’s ELT), now being built in Chile, will be the world’s largest visible/near-infrared telescope on completion in 2028. Its 39m-wide main mirror comprises 798 separate hexagonal pieces, attached to a base structure using steel flanges and SKF Vibracon adjustable chocks.
NTN Bearing Corporation, the parent company of BCA Bearings and Bower Bearings, is pleased to announce the addition of Mike Ferris to the Automotive Aftermarket sales team. Ferris is joining NTN’s Automotive Aftermarket business unit as the regional sales manager for the Central Region.
Siemens Mobility has invested in its Cornellà factory to significantly expand production capacity and the product portfolio.
The miniature GVCM-019-032-02 Linear Voice Coil Servo Motor has been released by Moticont. It is only three-quarters of an inch (19.0 mm) in diameter and features a 0.875 in. (22.2 mm) stroke. Also called an electric cylinder, this miniature linear servomotor, features a continuous high-force-to-size ratio of 7.4 ounces (2.1 N) and 23.3 ounces (6.5 N) of peak force at a 10 percent duty cycle.
The "Engineering Legacy" series gives historical context to mechanical power transmission components featured in PTE. Diamond Chain’s products were integral in many historical breakthroughs, including the Wright Brothers’ first flying machine, Henry Ford’s first automobile, and numerous motorsport champion vehicles.
Designatronics, Inc. announced today the appointment of Simon Brazier as its director of sales and marketing, following a wide-ranging search process. In this newly created role, Brazier will assume responsibility for leadership and growth for both domestic and international business development.
Innomotics, a Siemens Business, has partnered with Anglo American, one of the world’s leading mining companies, to develop a digital mining solution for Quellaveco copper mine, in Peru. In this context, Innomotics has provided a suite of Siemens technologies, to help Anglo American engineer, monitor, manage and run the mining operations from the earliest stages of design through commissioning and into production.
In this article, the focus turns to the dynamic modeling of ball bearings, and the benefits of this approach when analyzing high-speed ball bearings.
Carrying out routine maintenance can be a chore, but failing to complete regular checks on important pieces of machinery can result in unexpected downtime and lost productivity. Sulzer’s service center in Colton, CA, recently completed an urgent repair on a 700 HP (522 kW) motor, caused by a failed bearing, that could have been easily avoided.
Visit ABB at the 2024 EASA Convention from June 23-27, at Caesars Forum and Harrah's Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S. Media is invited to meet with ABB experts to learn about selecting innovative motor solutions essential for various applications and processes and discover new products, services, and digital solutions. ABB will unveil the ABB RXT series at 2:45 p.m. on Monday, June 24, at the ABB Booth 509, along with the new ABB NEMA Motors DP200 Crush+ and Baldor-Reliance FoodSafe SP5+.
Regal Rexnord Corporation has launched the next generation Perceptiv Intelligent Reliability and Maintenance Solution for condition monitoring and predictive maintenance in industrial manufacturing.
Bodine Electric Company introduces 12 new brushless DC hollow shaft gearmotors with hypoid gearing. These type 42B-25H2 and 42B-30H3 geared motors combine a new brushless DC, 130 VDC motor with two hypoid gearheads.
The Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers (STLE) — the premier technical society serving the needs of the tribology and lubrication engineering business sector — is pleased to announce the launch of a Sustainability Committee.
SKF is presenting its technologically innovative solutions tailored for customers in focused industrial segments at the virtual SKF Tech & Innovation Summit. The solutions are developed to address the needs of greater reliability, energy efficiency, and high-performance as well as to support customers on their sustainability journey.
FVA GmbH has released mechanicus, an intuitive online calculation tool for machine elements and standard calculations. The new web application is available for free now here and marks a significant milestone in the world of drive technology.
LogiDrive complete drive solutions from Nord Drivesystems reduce planning and commissioning efforts through cost-effective, standardized designs engineered to industry standards and application requirements. These solutions are especially well suited for post & parcel, airport, and warehouse logistics as they are specifically aligned with the intralogistics and material handling requirements of these industries.
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.
In major ports around the world, there is a growing need for autonomous goods handling. The vehicles in the ports, which are operated around the clock and have largely been manually operated.
Binder announces the latest enhancements to its panel mount connectors in M12 size. These connectors now feature assembled wires, an advanced sealing concept, safety features, and sustainable materials. Users in process, sensor, and drive technology also benefit from optional shielding and customization.
Linear guides, bushings, ball screws, stages, tables and motion control systems continue to evolve to meet the needs of factory automation, machine tools, and mechatronics. These components will continue to add sensors, electronics and software to meet new industrial requirements. We've spent time on the trade show circuit recently to report on new innovations in linear motion technology.
ARIA (Automated Robotic Industrial Assistant) has a small footprint, is fully configurable, and offers a broad array of options and preprogrammed software packages that enable the unit to be tailored to the application. Mitsubishi Electric Automation, Inc. is proud to announce its newest pre-engineered work cell product to its existing lineup with LoadMate Plus.
Overall global industrial robot shipment volumes exceeded 500,000 units in 2023, according to global market research firm Interact Analysis. This was a similar level to that seen in 2022 but the average price of industrial robots decreased last year. After a record high in 2021, 2023 reached a low point in terms of revenues and shipments but the long-term forecast remains positive. The global industrial robot market is expected to grow on average, by 3.7 percent per year between 2024 and 2028.
Emerson has announced its new Branson GLX-1 Laser Welder, which offers users flexibility to meet the growing demand for joining small, complex or delicate plastic components and assemblies. Its small footprint and modular design make it compatible for use in ISO-8 cleanroom environments, while an integral automation controller simplifies installation and interfaces with production robotics.
ABB Robotics launched OmniCore, an intelligent automation platform that is faster, more precise and more sustainable, to empower, enhance and futureproof businesses.
The PRT-02-30-WPC slewing ring bearing is another step forward by Igus toward integrating renewable raw materials into industrial production. Made of 50 percent wood and 50 percent high-performance plastics, the cost effective and lubrication-free slewing ring bearing balances strength and durability with a proven low CO2 footprint of just 0.0577 kilograms. By comparison, the PRT-02-30-ECO — already made from 97 percent regranulate — has a CO2 equivalent of 0.819868 kg.
Engineered with precision and versatility in mind, the MTB 105 is specifically designed to integrate into multi-axis medium- to large-sized Cartesian Gantry systems, providing robust support for medium to high payloads. Its fully enclosed design ensures reliability even in contaminant-prone environments, making it an ideal choice for a wide range of applications. Precision extrusions for each aluminum actuator body ensure all sides and bottom surfaces are flat and perpendicular giving accurate installations.
Thomson Industries, Inc. has announced the availability of new German-engineered precision ball screw sizes with US-based distribution and machining that provide best-in-class load capacity in a small footprint. The Thomson miniature metric ball screw line uses a unique multi-start ball return design that maximizes support for higher loads. This design provides precise, smooth and quiet operation for applications requiring high precision and load handling in confined spaces.
Nord Drivesystems recently celebrated the grand opening of their new, state-of-the-art production facility in McKinney, Texas. This factory marks the fourth U.S. production location of the global gear motor and control products manufacturer, with established facilities located in Corona, CA, Charlotte, NC, and the 291,700 sq. ft. U.S. corporate headquarters in Waunakee, WI.
When an application calls for synchronous lifting and pushing of a heavy load, rack and pinion jacks are an easy-to-use, economical and effective option. They combine a simple structure, robust design and a wide range of lifting forces, making them highly versatile and particularly attractive for installation in tight spaces and harsh environments. In fact, rack jacks can be installed as a complete system with many configurations, connected to air cylinders and motors, to guide forces to wherever they are needed in complex applications.
The global manufacturing economy will remain sluggish in 2024 and is forecast to expand by just 0.6 percent compared with last year. However, it looks set to recover in 2025, the latest data from Interact Analysis reveals. The market intelligence expert explains, except for China, most territories will experience a slight contraction this year, but many will be better off than expected going into 2025.
ABB Robotics has announced its first Flexley Tug T702 autonomous mobile robot equipped with AI-based Visual SLAM navigation technology and the new AMR Studio software, enabling first-time robot users to easily program and operate entire fleets of mobile robots. The new capabilities simplify configuration and can reduce commissioning time by up to 20 percent, paving the way for a workplace where intelligent robots operate autonomously, amid a critical shortage of skilled labor.
Almost 43,000 registrants came together in Chicago to seek out the latest and greatest automation and robotic technologies during Automate 2024 in May. As always, A3 did not disappoint with a comprehensive conference paired with new automation technologies on the exhibition floor.
Heidenhain is pleased to announce its participation in the EXPOMAQ show (Booth #418), from June 18-20 at Poliforum León in Guanajuato, Mexico. As the leading exhibition for metalworking, machine tools, and manufacturing technology in Latin America, EXPOMAQ brings together industry experts, professionals, and leaders, making it a pivotal gathering for those keen on exploring advancements in state-of-the-art technology.
MLC (formerly Mississippi Lime Company) has appointed Blake Dell as vice president for corporate development, strategy and UK operations. Part of the MLC executive leadership team, this is a new role created to escalate the company’s geographic and market expansion.
At a Gulf Coast seawater cooling pump station, the resilience of Vesconite Hilube bearings in hypochlorite came to the forefront, showcasing their superiority in challenging environments.
Nord’s industrial automation solutions include MaxxDrive industrial gear units, Unicase parallel shaft gear units, Unicase helical bevel gear units, IE3 – IE5+ high efficiency electric motors, and Nordac variable frequency drives. These solutions are engineered to work in unison for ultimate performance in demanding, heavy industrial environments.
AD is proud to announce the appointment of two new members joining the Industrial & Safety – U.S. Divisional Board: Alex Hodge, CEO of Horizon Distribution and Matt Onofrio, president of GT Midwest, effective June 2024. The Divisional Board, a vital aspect of AD's member-owned and governed structure, plays a critical role in shaping strategies and helping to direct the future for each respective business segment.
Caterpillar Inc. announces the awarding of Supplier Excellence Recognition Process (SER) Certification to the NTN Hamilton plant. This prestigious acknowledgment underscores NTN's consistent demonstration of excellence in product quality, service delivery, and overall performance in its partnership with Caterpillar.
Gear drives are fundamental in most processing operations, connecting the prime mover to the driven equipment and ensuring that the system has enough torque to effectively move product. Correctly specifying and selecting the proper gear drives for critical applications leads to reliability, greater uptime, and profitability.
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).
This Intellidrives waterproof and dust-resistant linear slide motion axis is engineered for reliability in harsh environments. With IP43 ratings, it withstands water and dust ingress, ensuring seamless operation in wet or dusty conditions. Ideal for outdoor use, marine applications, or industrial settings prone to moisture and debris. These axes offer precise and smooth linear motion control, enhancing automation systems' performance.
Motion has signed a definitive purchase agreement to acquire Allied Circuits, an electrical and automation firm. The transaction is expected to close later this month, subject to customary closing conditions.
Back in 1913, in Ann Arbor, MI., Leander J. Hoover founded the Hoover Steel Ball Company. In 1990, Tsubaki Nakashima company of Japan acquired the US ball manufacturing company and is currently the biggest manufacturer and supplier of precision balls in the world. Its first markets were the growing automotive and precision bearing industries. More than a century later, the electric vehicles (EV) market is becoming more and more relevant, though the combustible auto industry continues to grow. Its market for high-quality precision products has extended to medical, aerospace, military defense, and critical applications. After the great age of steel, a new era opened wide spaces for more extreme materials which paved the way for ceramics.
A "compact automation" is a mechatronic system that performs a whole series of consecutive production steps autonomously. "Compact" refers to the small dimensions, in the millimeter and centimeter range, of the products to be processed. Designing and constructing such systems is one of the core activities of the Austrian machine manufacturer STIWA. Its modular system LTM-CI has been optimized for small parts assembly. Linear and rotating micromotors from Faulhaber perform key tasks in these systems.
ABB has announced the launch of its 2024 Robotics AI Startup Challenge, a global competition designed to accelerate the development of artificial intelligence (AI) solutions in robotics. The challenge is part of ABB’s ecosystem for innovation, with a previous challenge resulting in the acquisition of Sevensense in January 2024, a Swiss-based start-up and leading provider of AI-enabled 3D vision navigation technology for autonomous mobile robots (AMRs). ABB Robotics' latest challenge will foster innovation and collaboration between ABB and pioneering startups and scaleups worldwide.
ABB Robotics is continuing the expansion of its modular large robot portfolio with the introduction of the new IRB 7710 and IRB 7720. The new robots, combined with recently launched IRB 5710-IRB 5720 and IRB 6710-IRB 6740, offer a combined total of 46 different variants capable of handling payloads between 70 kg-620 kg, to give customers a new level of flexibility, greater choice and performance in their operations.
Universal Robots, the Danish collaborative robot (cobot) company, and MiR, the Danish manufacturer of AMRs (autonomous mobile robots), recently celebrated the grand opening of their new 215,000 sq. ft. headquarters in Odense, Denmark. Partners from UR and MiR's global ecosystems attended the event, including NVIDIA and Siemens, with whom Teradyne Robotics and its companies have recently announced several collaborations.
GWJ Technology GmbH has presented a new version of its desktop solution TBK with numerous enhancements, particularly in the field of gearing. The TBK calculation software has been used successfully worldwide for more than four decades to dimension gears, shafts, connections, bearings, and other machine elements as well as complete gearboxes. With its various interfaces to 3D CAD systems, the TBK software is a powerful calculation tool for development, design, work planning, production, and quality assurance.
Operation Next provides an accelerated-hybrid program that combines online education with hands-on training to earn credentials for in-demand careers in advanced manufacturing. BBTC’s rolling start program will train students in Computer Numeric Control (CNC) and Welding. Each year 200,000 service members transition out of the military across the nation, and it is estimated that nearly 2 million advanced manufacturing workers will be needed to fill vacant positions in the U.S. by 2028.
Production facilities are increasingly the targets of cyberattacks. Industrial companies are therefore required to identify and close potential vulnerabilities in their systems. To address the need to identify cybersecurity vulnerabilities on the shop floor as quickly as possible, Siemens has launched a new cybersecurity software-as-a-service.
Eaton’s heavy-duty 4-speed electrified vehicle (EV) transmission was named a 2024 Automotive News PACEpilot Innovation to Watch at an awards ceremony on April 29. The recognition acknowledges post-pilot, pre-commercial innovations in the automotive and future mobility space.
Precise positioning of semi-conductor wafers during SCARA assembly operations requires instantaneous braking and holding power while minimizing heat in the system. The latest compact and slender Miki Pulley BXR-LE brake models provide the needed perfectly controlled braking in a confined area of the system using minimal power.
Regal Rexnord Corporation recently displayed its solutions for the metals industry at AISTech 2024.
igus has announced the winners of its 2024 vector awards, a biennial competition that honors bold, exciting projects that incorporate igus e-chain cable carriers made of high-performance plastics. A U.S. company, TDK RF Solutions, took the silver vector award for its automotive test rig.
Festo introduces its newest generation of Cartesian-handling-system mechanical axes. The ELGD-TB, tooth belt actuators, and ELGD-BS, ball screw actuators, are based on an innovative Festo design.
If you’ve recently purchased a Nord Drivesystems gear motor, you may have noticed a new sticker with a QR code located on the unit. Quick Response (QR) codes can store a wide range of data and enable the user to access information almost instantly. These stickers are a new development in Nord’s expansive digital services and provide users quick access to product specifications, documentation, and service requests on-the-spot via their mobile device. The codes can be scanned using a photo app or QR code app and will bring the user to Nord’s digital service webpage with their respective country’s language and contacts.
Firmly committed to Industry 4.0 and the future of manufacturing, KUKA Robotics will highlight an innovative solution for educating the next generation of workers and its collaboration with three universities on cutting edge Mixed Reality (MR) demonstrations at Automate 2024, May 6 – 9 at McCormick Place in Chicago, Illinois.
Ruland Manufacturing now offers bellows and double disc couplings with bore sizes up to 1-3/4 in or 45 mm for use in systems with torque up to 1,4000 in-lbs. (158 Nm). High torque applications commonly found in precision semiconductor, solar, conveyor, and factory automation applications often use these shaft sizes. Ruland disc and bellows couplings accommodate all forms of misalignment, are zero-backlash, and have a balanced design for reduced vibration at speeds up to 10,000 rpm.
The Association for Advancing Automation (A3), North America’s largest automation trade association representing more than 1300 organizations, has announced the winners of the inaugural Automate Innovation Awards. This year’s winners—AMD, ECM and GrayMatter Robotics—will be honored at a special ceremony on May 6 at Automate 2024 in Chicago.
ABB Robotics will celebrate 50 years of robotic innovation with its latest AI-powered robotic solutions that help companies improve production efficiency and quickly adapt to changing market demands at Automate 2024, May 6-9 at McCormick Place in Chicago (Main Booth #2239; Education Pavilion Booth #5672).
Fortifi Food Processing Solutions ("Fortifi") has appointed Victor Nieto as executive vice president of lean transformation and growth effective May 1, 2024. Fortifi's unified platform of leading global brands and products transforms food processing and automation solutions.
Automate, North America’s biggest robotics and automation trade show, will open its doors on May 6-9 at McCormick Place in Chicago. Stäubli Robotics will present exhibits, live demonstrations, and experiences at Booth 2250, featuring flexible robots adapted to improve safety as well as productivity in a variety of manufacturing environments, from heavy industry to highly aseptic, and meet user needs across sectors.
Registration has officially opened for Pack Expo International, scheduled for Nov. 3–6 at McCormick Place in Chicago. The event is the largest and most comprehensive packaging and processing show worldwide for 2024. According to show producer PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, the industry's growth underscores the need for manufacturers to access innovative solutions tailored to their diverse needs. From sustainability initiatives to automation advancements and AI integration, businesses now more than ever seek a central hub to discover solutions, stay abreast of the latest topics and trends, and build impactful connections.
This week at Hannover Messe, Dana Incorporated is highlighting its broad range of next-generation motion systems offering superior performance, durability, and sustainability across the entire spectrum of industrial applications.
Located in Hall 6, Stand D48/1, Dana will feature its recently updated Brevini gearboxes and winches, as well as field-proven GWB industrial driveshafts.
The OPC Foundation, a global organization dedicated to interoperability in industrial automation, announces the formation of a new working group focused on leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI). This initiative marks a pivotal moment in the convergence of AI and manufacturing, promising to redefine how engineers interact with data and systems to build cutting-edge solutions.
It’s common to hear the metaverse described as a 3D experience layer of the internet. The “industrial metaverse” is a more difficult concept to define. According to Forrester, it’s an umbrella term for a collection of different technologies. Some of those technologies have existed for years just waiting to come together.
Following a previous blog on the topic, Understanding the Industrial Metaverse, in this blog Stephen Graham, executive vice president and general manager, Nexus, takes an introductory look at the four building blocks, highlighting some of the key issues.
Innomotics and the University of Pittsburgh's Swanson School of Engineering are thrilled to announce Josh Samuel Lubin as the recipient of the 2024 Peter Hammond Scholarship. A master’s student in engineering at the University of Pittsburgh Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Lubin has been selected to receive the scholarship for $10,000. Now in its fifth year, this award is presented to outstanding graduate students pursuing studies in electrical engineering, exemplifying both academic excellence and innovative research.
Faulhaber is introducing a new motion control system. Integrated in the powerful brushless motors of the Faulhaber 22xx...BX4 family, the new Integrated Motion Controller 22xx…BX4 IMC, impresses users with its extensive range of functions and outstanding performance. Extension in length compared to the motor alone is 18 mm only including a full featured servo controller and a 12-bit encoder. To top this, the full performance of the motors can be used in all different executions.
Norway is the official partner country of Hannover Messe 2024. Under the headline “pioneering the green industrial transition”, Norway will showcase digital technology and sustainable solutions for manufacturing. There will also be a strong focus on clean energy, including renewables, hydrogen, ammonia and CCS.
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).
Gear backlash in precision applications is a critical element of gear system performance. Too much backlash can result in inefficiencies of motion in the gear train and will ultimately damage a gear’s teeth. Too little can mean the gears bind up and cause excessive wear to the tooth’s surface and the root of the gear, or even the fracturing of a tooth. Establishing and setting the appropriate amount of backlash is essential in gear design and manufacturing, according to Berg, a Regal Rexnord Brand.
It's no secret that cycloidal gearboxes are important in mechanical engineering, especially when it comes to precision motion control and efficient power transmission. The gear systems differ from harmonic wave/strain wave gearboxes by using a cycloidal disk and needle bearings to transmit torque with minimum backlash, achieve high reduction ratios, and support substantial loads. This Sumitomo Drive Technologies blog will talk about single-stage and multi-stage cycloidal gearboxes.
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:
After volume production of the CeTrax lite electric drive for light commercial vehicles started in April 2023, ZF has already produced its first thousand units. The ramp-up in volume production was steeper than planned because demand from the customer ISUZU increased. The drive is used by ISUZU to power the latest generation its light distributor truck, the ISUZU ELF EV. Further volume production is set to start imminently this year.
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.
Spline rumble is characterized by a multiple low shaft order droning noise. It arises in electrified vehicle (EV) powertrains due to excitation at the spline connection between the motor rotor and the transmission input. It is caused by the interactions between manufacturing errors. In this article SMT will be looking at how MASTA can be used to predict rumble in a modern EV gearbox with a three-bearing input assembly layout.
OHLAs provide both overhung radial and axial load support to protect electrified mobile equipment motors from heavy application loads, extending the lifetime of the motor and alleviating the cost of downtime both from maintenance costs and loss of production. OHLAs also provide a contamination barrier to protect the electrified system from harsh environments that may include water, dirt, abrasives, chemicals, and other invasive debris, which are often present in mobile equipment applications.
An independent jury consisting of members of the FEMWORX Congress Advisory Board has nominated three young female experts for the Young Engineer Woman Award. The winner will be announced on April 26 during the FEMWORX Career Congress. As part of Hannover Messe, Deutsche Messe presents the Young Engineer Woman Award to young women who have made a special contribution to scientific and technical disciplines.
Compact and lightweight – such is the most common requirement for the gearboxes of emission-free, electric drives. With seven basic gearboxes, the LPI series by Liebherr fulfils exactly this need for high power density. With their low weight, reduced installation space and torque ranges from 20,000 Nm to 350,000 Nm, they are ideally suited as drives for crawler and crawler undercarriages. Customized large gearboxes are even available up to the maximum torque of 2,300,000 Nm.
The Danish company FLSmidth wants to be in constant dialogue with their customers in the mining and minerals industry to develop individual and pioneering solutions for better productivity as well as the responsible and efficient use of natural resources. As the drive is the heart of the crusher, the bevel gear is one of its most important components, making gear quality crucial to the design and manufacture of reliable crushers. This means that FLSmidth wants to use only the best and most reliable partners to supply those gears.
The PTDA Foundation is seeking nominations for its Wendy B. McDonald Woman of the Year Award and Robert K. Callahan Advancing Leaders Award.
Binder, a leading supplier of industrial circular connectors, offers products from several M12 series as surface-mount devices (SMDs). These are suitable for further processing in fully automated processes, such as for the particularly dense, double-sided assembly of PCBs. They are also used in automation technology devices, sensors, actuators, and robotics.
Norgren air preparation products currently offered by Automation24 include regulators, filters, combination units (filter/regulator/lubricator), valves, and accessories. These proven air preparation products are built to overcome the common challenges of using compressed air.
Genuine Parts Company, a global distributor of automotive and industrial replacement parts, has announced that its board of directors has appointed James F. Howe to the position of president, Motion, the company's industrial business, effective April 1, 2024. With nearly three decades of dedicated service to the company, Howe brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his new role.
The Association for Advancing Automation (A3) announced three longtime industry pioneers as the winners of the 2024 Joseph F. Engelberger Robotics Awards, the world's most prestigious robotics honor.
AD Mexico was thrilled to commemorate its 10th anniversary at the 2024 AD Mexico Spring Network Meeting, hosting the AD Mexico Divisional Board, Industrial and Safety Steering Committee, and Supplier Advisory Council, along with 120 AD Mexico electrical and industrial & safety members and suppliers to engage in networking opportunities and discussions on the achievements of 2023 and plans for expansion into new markets in 2024.
LexxPluss is investing heavily in the US to provide its autonomous mobile robots (AMR) technology. The Japanese automation solutions provider has recently announced a new US demo space to showcase the capabilities of its flexible robotic fleet solutions and the flagship 30x30 ft facility is located in the Indiana IoT Lab, in Fishers, Indiana.
International manufacturer Horsburgh & Scott Company announced that it has established a 32,000-square-foot facility in Slidell, LA, for the repair, service and assembly of industrial gears and gearboxes destined for the defense industry.
At the AGMA/ABMA annual meeting (held March 15–17 in Napa, CA), gear manufacturers, bearing manufacturers and industry suppliers spent a lot of time talking about one of the key issues affecting all of industry: finding and retaining skilled employees.
I hear about a lot of different approaches people are taking, including cooperations with local educational institutions, such as high schools, community colleges and technical trade schools. I heard the competition for dedicated young employees who are interested in joining a manufacturing team is so fierce that many companies who want to hire simply can’t. Some have even begun creating their own in-house training and education programs at least partially in order to bypass that competition and find and develop the necessary talent.
There is no compromise to safety in robotic applications. Lightweight robots or collaborative robots (cobots) are capable of complex and unexpected movements and need to stop immediately ensuring the safety of human operators. This is where smart couplings and smart brakes provide intelligent flexibility and guidance.
In the highly competitive gear manufacturing industry, Master Power Transmission (MPT) recognized the need for innovation. To achieve this, MPT partnered with Ready Robotics, undertaking a transformative journey into advanced automation through their Automation Readiness Assessment (ARA).
Automate 2024 (Chicago) offers comprehensive automation education and new developments in robotics, vision, AI, motion control and other technologies. Automate delivers the latest innovations in manufacturing automation technology from more than 800 exhibitors. If the robotic and automation highlights aren’t enough, the show also hints at the evolution of AI, IIoT, e-Mobility, condition monitoring and intuitive software. This article previews the show floor topics reshaping manufacturing for the foreseeable future.
For this paper, the digital twin refers to a digital asset that exists alongside the physical asset during its operational life, providing insight into and feedback on the physical asset’s performance and health. Thus, the focus is on the DTI, with the potential to aggregate data into a DTA for the gearbox design being considered, and within the DTE set up by Hexagon.
In respect of the physical asset across its life, nothing is more important about its performance than its ability to function, i.e., reliability, and for CAE, nothing is of greater importance than to be able to predict the reliability of a product being designed. Thus, for this study, whilst gearbox noise, efficiency, and thermal behavior may be of interest, the primary interest is fatigue and reliability.
Nidec Motor Corporation has expanded its line of Totally Enclosed Fan Cooled (TEFC) vertical motors, with a new medium-high thrust motor and enhancements to its medium thrust inline motor. These two U.S. Motors products are available in frame sizes 182 through 286 and are specifically engineered for use in severe duty environments.
Hanging above my desk is a quote from Nikola Tesla that reads, “Every living being is an engine geared to the wheelwork of the universe.” What this means to me evolves daily. For example, I was walking the dogs over the weekend, and I noticed a gray piece of plastic on the lawn. My first instinct was it must go to a toy of some kind. I have been trying to imagine all week what it might go to.
Igus has introduced the draw-e-chain. Thanks to the minimalist design, the price of the compact energy chain cable carrier is 30 percent lower than the most cost-effective standard e-chains. This protects against expensive oversizing, especially if the application is only moved a little.
One of the most important aspects of ERP software for manufacturers is the stability of the software provider. Global Shop Solutions, a family-owned ERP provider for almost 50 years, is proud to recognize Chris Pinaire, MBA, director of new implementations, for his 20 years of dedicated service to the manufacturing industry.
Nord Drivesystem is returning to the 96th Annual AAAE Conference with their innovative solutions for the airport industry. This year’s exhibition takes place in Nashville, Tennessee April 28th – May 1st, 2024. Drive solutions from Nord are characterized by their long service life, high efficiency, and quiet operation to transport baggage effectively and discretely from the check-in counter to the flight operations area.
Kollmorgen has announced the latest update to its AKD2G servo drive. With the introduction of these new features, Kollmorgen has broadened its offerings to additionally support PROFINET IRT and Ethernet/IP with CIP Sync alongside CANopen, EtherCAT, and FSoE time-synchronized communication protocols. Each protocol is rigorously tested with a variety of motion controllers and certified by industry standards organizations.
The Timken Company board of directors has reached an agreement with Tarak Mehta to become Timken's next president and chief executive officer Sept. 5, 2024. Mehta is currently president of the Motion business and member of the Group Executive Committee at ABB Ltd., a $32 billion leader in electrification and automation. Mehta will be appointed Timken president and CEO after he completes a transition period with ABB.
The international automotive supplier Forvia Hella receives the John Deere Award in the sustainability category. The leading manufacturer of agricultural machinery honors Forvia Hella for its heat recovery system at the Großpetersdorf site in Austria. The system saves around 175,000 kilowatt hours of natural gas per year and therefore around 32,000 kilograms of CO2. The award was presented at the John Deere European Supplier Conference in March 2024 in Mannheim, Germany.
SKF has decided to join and co-fund Mission 0 to contribute to the development of groundbreaking technologies and deliver solutions to eliminate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in materials, production and end-of-life of passenger cars. In an initial pilot project, SKF will collaborate with academia and industry experts in a research arena to solve GHG emissions in materials and processes that require new knowledge or disruptive technologies.
New steel coils offer a wide canvas for corrosion to make its mark. This is among the last problems steel coil processors want to deal with. Oiling after acid pickling is one precaution that can help. However, processors who choose dry pickling will likely have more problems during storage and shipping. Cortec’s Vapor phase Corrosion Inhibiting edge sprays help steel coil processors get an edge on corrosion.
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:
ABB will showcase its innovative solutions at AGG1, the top exposition and education resource, in Nashville on March 25-27. Attendees are invited to visit Booth 717 to learn about the company’s motor line, designed to meet rigorous demands and harsh conditions reliably and efficiently while achieving lower life cycle costs.
Siemens AG has signed an agreement to acquire the industrial drive technology (IDT) business of ebm-papst. The business, which employs around 650 people, includes intelligent, integrated mechatronic systems in the protective extra-low voltage range and innovative motion control systems. These systems are used in free-range driverless transport systems. The planned acquisition will complement the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio and strengthen Siemens’ position as a leading solutions provider for flexible production automation.
The Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers (STLE) is pleased to announce a new publication and panel dedicated to women and future women in the tribology and lubrication engineering field.
Bonfiglioli boosts its participation at LogiMAT with two booths: the first, in the Hall 10, is dedicated to Solutions for Mobile Intralogistics (Booth 10D13), the second, in the Hall 7, is focused on Logistics Automation Solutions (Booth 7F09). This double presence holds significant strategic importance, reflecting the company's steadfast commitment in the development of complete cutting-edge solutions for warehouse operations, under the sign of efficiency and sustainability.
Motor operators in all industries are staying ahead of the curve in energy efficiency and environmental stewardship with ABB Baldor-Reliance SP4 motors. ABB’s SP4 technology meets the NEMA Super Premium efficiency level in a standard AC induction motor design operating across the line, independently of a variable speed drive.
PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, will bring Pack Expo East (March 18–20, Pennsylvania Convention Center, Philadelphia) back to the city of brotherly love for its sixth iteration — and largest show to date. The event represents the most comprehensive showcase of packaging and processing technologies on the East Coast.
The American Gear Manufacturers Association (AGMA) announces changes to its Board of Directors at the AGMA Members' Meeting during the Annual Meeting in Napa, CA. “AGMA would not be where it is today without the passion and diligence of its Board of Directors,” said Matthew E. Croson, President, AGMA. “I want to thank the outgoing Directors for their wisdom and guidance during the pandemic and for helping AGMA maneuver through the tough economic conditions that followed. I have full confidence in our new Directors as AGMA focuses on programs to improve the gear industry at home and forge new partnerships with like-minded associations and organizations abroad.”
Following the motto "LogiMAT 2024 – experience the flow," Siemens is showcasing its extensive automation and digitalization portfolio for the intralogistics industry at this year's Logimat. Intralogistics is the backbone of every supply chain. Increasing demands for energy efficiency and sustainability as well as labor shortages and cybersecurity threats require efficient and adaptive material flow technology.
ABB has opened its refitted US robotics headquarters and manufacturing facility in Auburn Hills, MI, which will support ABB Robotics’ global leadership in developing and manufacturing robotic solutions in the US, for the US and the Americas.
When precision and efficiency reign supreme, every component plays a role in ensuring optimal performance. Among these components, gear pumps stand out as essential workhorses, facilitating the smooth transfer of fluid power within intricate systems.
In Watch Valley, a region between Basel and Geneva, an ecosystem has developed over several centuries around the watch industry and the smallest precision components for micromechanical devices. Machine builders such as Esco SA in Les Geneveys-sur-Coffrane and Affolter Group SA in Malleray are an important part of this ecosystem. Their CNC machines are used to manufacture the smallest gears, screws, shafts, and other components at maximum precision, practically laying the foundation for the famous precision of Swiss watch movements.
Vesconite Hilube NSF61-approved wear rings will be featured in an NSF61-approved submersible pump series developed by a well-known European original equipment manufacturer (OEM).
An industry leader in specialty steel solutions was experiencing premature wear on its billet straightening machine. Due to the high temperatures caused during operation, the competitor’s chain was failing after 15 weeks.
RoboDK announces its strategic partnership with Comau, a global leader in advanced automation solutions and robot manufacturer. The latest version of Comau Roboshop Next Gen software seamlessly integrates with RoboDK, making simulation more advanced.
Nord Drivesystems announces that their DuoDrive integrated gear unit and motor has received UL/CSA certification. This unit combines a high-efficiency IE5+ synchronous motor and single-stage helical gear unit into one compact housing with a smooth, easy to clean surface.
Festo is working hard to equip its automation components with a digital twin – a digital representation in the form of administration shells. The company has joined forces with other German automation partners and the Industrial Digital Twin Association because standardization is what machine and system builders expect.
Heidenhain Corporation announces acquisition of a new Silicon Valley headquarters located in Fremont, California. The 12,000 square foot Manufacturing Innovation Hub will house office space for Heidenhain Corporation’s regional sales and support staff as well as a 6,000 square foot equipment demonstration lab.
The Bearing Show is North Americas newest exhibition and conference, connecting the evolving needs of bearings end-users with the latest technologies serving, OEM development, maintenance professionals and R&D engineers. Meet visitors from OEM’s, machine manufacturers, industrial plants, global distributors, and more. Matching the needs of end-users with the innovation and opportunities occurring throughout the supply-chain is essential. PTE recently interviewed Thomas Harris, event director, Lubricant Expo and The Bearing Show North Americas, to discuss the evolution of the event and what to expect from the show in late March.
Gates announces its collaboration and entry into the fast-growing and evolving data center cooling market with CoolIT Systems.
Danfoss Power Solutions has launched its newly combined Integrated Circuit Solutions product portfolio. Consisting of cartridge valves and hydraulic integrated circuits from multiple legacy brands, the Danfoss ICS portfolio is now a market-leading offering in terms of size and variety of options.
Igus announces its new iglide i230 3D printing material for selective laser sintering (SLS). This new powder material can withstand temperatures up to 110°C, expanding the use cases for SLS-printed polymer components.
During his inaugural tour, Canadian Ambassador to Austria Troy Lulashnyk recently visited the B&R headquarters in Eggelsberg. With B&R CEO Joerg Theis he discussed the future of automation technology in Canada and learned about the company's latest innovations and vision for growth in the North American market.
B&D Industrial, a leading independent distributor and service provider specializing in industrial applications, is thrilled to announce the recent acquisition of American Gear & Engineering, Inc. (American Gear), a premier gear manufacturing organization located in Westland, MI. This strategic move marks a significant step in B&D Industrial's commitment to vertical integration, enabling the company to provide an expanded range of offerings and greater value to its customers.
AI is everywhere.
It’s impacting every phase of life, and every business. Take this issue of Power Transmission Engineering, for example. We have articles about AI in hydraulic systems, automation systems and maintenance (p.15); smart farming and mobile robotics (p. 18); plus mentions of AI sprinkled throughout the rest of the issue.
Anticipation vs. reaction is the name of the game in fluid power, hydraulics, and pneumatics. The organizations embracing mechatronics, digital toolsets, AI and the electrification movement will be in a much better position moving forward. Here are a few of the trends/technologies to consider relating to fluid power and motion control today:
While the factory has received a modern makeover in recent years, it’s no surprise various industrial segments are taking advantage of digital tools to promote efficiency, sustainability, and productivity. The farming and agriculture community has embraced automation, robotics, IIoT, drones and autonomous vehicles to address global food demands and production limitations.
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.
Mark your calendars for March 19–21, 2024, as the Bearing Show—colocated with Lubricant Expo—descends upon Huntington Place in Detroit. As North America’s premier exhibition and conference dedicated to bearings, this free-to-attend event promises to be a groundbreaking convergence of industry leaders, technological advancements, and invaluable networking.
When motion system designers need complex, high-speed, multiaxis motion, they might first think of elaborate, prepackaged robot arms. Or, if they need only a few axes, they might configure a separate profile or round rail for each axis. But hiding between those options is simple and proven ball spline technology. This multiaxis motion solution has existed for years and is still highly relevant to today’s complex motion schemes. Ball splines use a unique architecture integrating rotary and linear motion on a single shaft. This gives them more flexibility to implement complex motion schemes in tighter spaces, providing a two-for-one deal in motion control.
Steel, iron, and aluminum are the dominant materials in the mechanical power transmission industry for good reason: high power density requires the high strength and stiffness of metallic materials. Plastics, however, offer valuable features that should be utilized for good gearbox design.
Artists Bruce Rosenbaum and Ben Cowden earned film credits recently for prop design on the PBS documentary The Lie Detector: A Truly Unbelievable Story. This ambitious historical account of real-life inventors, marketers, law enforcement professionals, and snake oil salesmen traces the interconnected lives of John Larson, William Marston and Leonarde Keeler.
ABB and CERN, the European Laboratory for Particle Physics, have identified significant energy-saving potential through a strategic research partnership focused on the cooling and ventilation system at one of the world’s leading laboratories for particle physics institutes, located in Geneva, Switzerland. The study included energy efficiency audits which have helped to identify a savings potential of 17.4 percent across a fleet of 800 motors.
Complementing the OES (Optimal Engineering Systems Inc.) growing line of single and multi-axis positioning stages is the Allegra Series of Stored Program Motion Control Systems Controllers. The Allegra Series of Controllers is available as a desktop (pictured) or 19-inch rack mount system.
IIjin Electric's collaboration with Siemens began with the company's efforts to effectively integrate electrical design with mechanical design. “This collaboration went beyond simply changing tools. It represented a major advancement in the company's design approach and methodology.
The Modex 2024 exhibition will be open March 11th – 14th at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, GA. Nord Drivesystems will be in attendance to showcase their latest innovations for intralogistics applications. Nord has thousands of drives installed across the world and offers complete drive solutions specialized for intralogistics handling such as simple commissioning, Plug-and-Play capabilities, standardization, energy savings, and more.
NTN Bearing Corporation, the parent company of BCA Bearings and Bower Bearings, is pleased to announce the addition of Kevin Huckins to the automotive aftermarket sales team. Huckins is joining NTN’s automotive aftermarket business unit as regional sales manager, western region.
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.
Netzer introduces the new VLM-60 multi-turn, hollow shaft absolute rotary encoder, the ideal solution for smooth and continuous production with limited space.
The Timken Company was recognized by Newsweek as one of America's Greatest Workplaces for Diversity. The ranking is the result of a study conducted by data research firm Plant-A Insights, which interviewed over 223,000 employees in the United States and collected over 1.5 million comprehensive company reviews.
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.
GKN Automotive has expanded the role of current chief communications and sustainability officer, Dr. Clare Wyatt to include the global human resource’s function. With immediate effect, Dr. Wyatt will take the role of chief people, communications and sustainability officer.
Gates announces the launch of the Clean Master Plus hose platform, the newest addition to Gates’ industrial hose lineup, built for high pressure applications in demanding industrial environments.
Spanning more than 118 meters long, Liva, delivered in August 2023, is the largest superyacht to date built by the prestigious Abeking & Rasmussen shipbuilder in Lemwerder, Germany, near Bremen. However, its length is by no means the only record-breaking feature that the shipyard offers in the superyacht segment. The sleek black hull is a visual highlight that draws the observer’s gaze to focus entirely on the elegant silhouette. All technical necessities are accommodated in a way that makes them as invisible as possible.
Motion Industries, Inc. has signed a definitive purchase agreement to acquire the operating assets of Perfetto Manufacturing and SER Hydraulics. Subject to customary closing conditions, the transaction is expected to be finalized at the end of February.
Forest City Gear is hosting a manufacturing facility tour for Rock River Valley Tooling and Machining Association (RRVTMA) on Wednesday, February 28 at 5:00 pm.
The KISSdesign system module is a powerful tool for transmission modeling and analysis. MSc. Eng. Aissa Benykhlef from KISSsoft AG will guide attendees through the essential tools and functionalities required for building comprehensive models, with a special emphasis on the Sketcher and its versatile applications in various kinematic models.
Employing the power of smartphones and Augmented Reality (AR), KUKA has launched its new KUKA.MixedReality software that allows users to visualize the environment of robot cells live on their smartphones to support fast, safe, and intuitive robot startups. The free mobile app displays tools and interference geometries for early detection of potential hazards that can then be eliminated before a robot even starts to work.
ABB has launched a new version its IE5 SynRM (synchronous reluctance motor) that combines the benefits of ultra-premium energy efficiency with highly effective liquid cooling. The new design sets a new benchmark for high power output and reliability in a compact footprint.
Intelligent power management company Eaton today announced that Ben Sheen, chief engineer, of Eaton’s Mobility Group, was recently elected to the Board of Trustees for the Gear Research Institute (GRI) at Penn State University. The GRI is affiliated with the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) and the American Gear Manufacturers Association (AGMA) to conduct research and development, consulting, and analysis for gear-related needs.
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.
The Xtreme 6000 ZrO2 Series of Full Ceramic Radial Bearings from CeramicSpeed are designed to provide levels of performance in extreme environments beyond the capabilities of steel and even hybrid bearings. The complementing components of these bearings were carefully selected to provide the highest levels of performance in high temperatures, and adverse environments such as: Submerged in water, high pressure steam, chemicals, and caustic fluids.
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.
After years of changing new casings and propellers every three months to their process pump, a metal industry operator switched their worn-out pump to one of Sulzer’s EMW slurry pumps at their melt shop. The client considered the change a leap forward in their slurry pumping technology since the maintenance interval grew significantly, pump efficiency improved, and the change reduced power consumption.
In recognition of its environmental leadership and comprehensive disclosure in the area of climate change, Siemens has been included by the CDP on its annual Climate Change A List, the highest possible performance ranking. CDP is a leading organization evaluating corporate action on climate strategies
The 2024 GEAPS Exchange will be open February 24 – 28 in Kansas City, MO and is the best place to see the latest innovative grain industry solutions from Nord Drivesystems. Flexible drive solutions are required throughout the grain sector to power the different systems as well as transport the products from one processing stage to the next.
Applied Motion Products introduces the M5 Servo Series – where power, precision, and cost-efficiency converge. The M5 Servo Series is engineered for high machine performance, exceptional torque output, and precise control. This series is optimized for cost-efficiency, ensuring peak capabilities without compromising performance.
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.
Ruland Manufacturing now offers rigid couplings with inch-to-metric bores as a standard product, giving users a wider range of off-the-shelf couplings. This expansion is the latest addition to the company's inch-to-metric, standard coupling product line that includes seven types of motion-control couplings and universal joints. Instead of re-machining or ordering custom-made couplings, using off-the-shelf, inch-to-metric rigid couplings saves time and money.
Universal Robots has reported Q4 revenue of USD 103 million, up 21 percent on Q4 2022. The quarter was the company’s largest revenue quarter to date. 2023 annual revenue was USD 304 million, down 7 percent on 2022.
In December 2023, ABB Electrification Norway AS signed a contract with LIS, Movu Robotics distributor in Norway, to install Movu's escala order fulfillment solution in its production premises in Skien, Norway.
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.
SKF has been awarded a Platinum Medal by EcoVadis, one of the most trusted providers of sustainability ratings for use in supply chains. This prestigious recognition places SKF in the top one percent among the more than 100,000 companies assessed worldwide for its commitment to sustainable business practices.
IKO International introduces its CFC…B Series of short stud-type cam followers. These new cam followers have a unique mounting structure that solves space limitations that often exist on the stud side of the assembly region, thereby satisfying mounting requirements without sacrificing performance.
CES 2024 boasted 4,300+ exhibitors, including a record 1,400+ startups from around the globe. The event continued to showcase the innovative trends shaping our future.
When it comes to twisting and bunching wire and cable, consistency is key. For example, the amount of insulation required for residential wiring depends on the wire’s lay — the distance between its twists, which is also known as the pitch. Without tight control during the wire bunching process, lay variations occur. As a result, the wire will require more insulation than necessary, raising its cost. A differential gearbox can drive rotating components in a single-twist buncher to provide a more uniform lay, using less power at a lower cost than a two-motor approach.
The Power Transmission Distributors Association (PTDA) Foundation Board of Trustees begin their leadership terms.
The Association for Advancing Automation (A3) celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2024. The global advocate for the benefits of automation now represents more than 1280 member companies as it promotes automation technologies and ideas that transform and redefine the business environment.
Velo3D, Inc. announced Kratos SRE, Inc., a subsidiary of Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc., has acquired a Velo3D Sapphire printer to support Kratos’s technology development and ability to rapidly, reliably, and affordability address defense industry customers’ evolving requirements.
A series of compact, low-cost electromagnets has been released by Magnetic Sensor Systems (MSS). The E-22-150 Series of Tubular Electromagnets (1.5 in. in diameter x 2.15 in.) feature 19 different windings to select from based on the duty cycle and holding force requirements of the application. E-22-150 Electromagnets are immediately available off-the-shelf in sample quantities and OEM quantities for Just-In-Time deliveries.
Wieland has acquired Concast Metal Products Co. and Randall Bearings Inc., strengthening the presence of Wieland Group in premium copper and copper alloy market segments in North America.
The importance of standardization work is often underestimated or given little attention. For companies, it is often an important basis for innovation and competitiveness. It is therefore important to inspire young talents for standardization. Andre Thuswaldner, vice president of Eurotrans, described this topic vividly:
What are Standards?
Standards are documents that provide rules, guidelines and requirements for the design, production, use or performance of materials, products, processes, services or persons. They are the result of voluntary national, European and international standardization activities. The use of standards is voluntary. Standards only become binding if they are the subject of contracts between parties, for example between vendor and buyer, or if compliance with them is mandatory by law.
Igus, a global manufacturer of motion plastics, has developed intelligent two- and four-hole fixed flange bearings with wireless sensing capabilities for wear detection, enabling condition monitoring and preventing costly machine breakdowns.
Caterpillar Inc. has launched a prototype demonstration project for a battery-powered field elevator with Flory Industries, a global leader in the production of nut-harvesting equipment.
Hoerbiger has announced the acquisition of Minor Industria Mecanica de Precisão Ltda, the owner of the Minor Jupiter brand. The company will become part of Hoerbiger's Rotary Solutions Business Unit, which with this acquisition will both strengthen its position in South America and increase local manufacturing for customers in Brazil and surrounding countries.
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.
GKN Aerospace has boosted its commitment to sustainable manufacturing, with a £50 million (600 million SEK) investment in additive fabrication technology in Trollhättan, Sweden. GKN Aerospace has been at the forefront of additive fabrication for almost two decades, and has significant research and technology centers in Sweden, the UK and the US.
Nord Drivesystems is once again attending the International Production and Processing Expo (IPPE) to showcase their solutions for the poultry and meat processing industry. Nord’s modular product system includes compact gear units, high-efficiency electric motors, and precise, intelligent electronic controls with a variety of surface protection options. This year’s expo is taking place January 30 – February 1, 2024, at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, GA.
KISSsoft training courses cover various categories - basic, advanced, special - and take place either via Live Stream or at the KISSsoft AG premises in Switzerland. Based always on the current KISSsoft release, they give you the possibility to enhance and deepen your software knowledge and skills with regards to KISSsoft modules and functionalities.
WorldWide Electric Corporation has announced the acquisition of North American Electric, Inc. Both companies embrace customer-centricity as a substantial competitive advantage — each provides high-touch, accessible sales support and application expertise, in-stock inventory, excellent distribution channels, and a broad offering of industrial products.
Corrosive chemicals such as chlorine, acids, alkalis and solvents require special pumps to handle their corrosive properties. Centrifugal pumps are most often used and offer advantages during the production process particularly when operating with Stainless Steel ASK Couplings from Miki Pulley.
Motion Industries, Inc. recently named Chris Cleland to senior vice president of strategy and markets, effective immediately. Cleland’s career spans over 25 years in consulting, strategy, marketing, branding, e-commerce, business development, and transformation.
Forest City Gear, an industry-leading manufacturer of fine and medium pitch custom gears, is proud to announce that Director of Operations Jared Lyford has been elected to the Rock River Valley Tooling & Machining Association (RRVTMA) Board of Directors.
CIMdata and Eurostep have announced the PLM Road Map & PDT 2024 North America conference, scheduled to take place at the Marriott Hotel in Tysons Corner, Virginia, USA on May 8th and 9th.
Perkins has introduced a new line of repair sleeves for its 1100 Series engines, enabling end users to return cylinder bores to like-new performance while avoiding the downtime, expense, and waste of a full engine overhaul.
Curtiss-Wright’s Actuation Division has announced that its new Exlar Tritex EVA electric valve actuator has achieved CSA Class 1, Division 2 (C1D2) Hazardous Location certification. It also outperformed American Oil & Gas producers’ expectations for rugged field test operations in Texas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico. The Tritex EVA answers the demand for an efficient, high-speed solution while meeting the Methane Emissions Reduction Program (MERP) and Quad-O zero-emissions regulations in the oil and gas industry.
The Power Transmission Distributors Association (PTDA) will host a new talent development event, the PTDA 2024 Industry Immersion Conference in Hollywood, Fla. on February 29, 2024. This intensive program is designed to help those who are new to the power transmission and motion control (PT/MC) industry grow the interpersonal skills, networking capabilities and industry essentials for building successful relationships with coworkers, executives and customers.
Topball Ultimate from NB Corporation can carry four times the load and has 64 times the life of conventional slide bushings. It's new optimized load plate, outer cylinder structure and double the ball circuits of the standard TW type increase Topball Ultimate’s load ratings by 1.3 times and travel life by 2.2 times compared to the TW. The TW type has three times the load capacity and 27 times more travel life of conventional bushings.
Eaton Cummins Automated Transmission Technologies has announced its Endurant XD series automated transmission is now available in select vocational Western Star and Freightliner models, both of which are subsidiaries of Daimler Truck North America (DTNA).
The global geared motors and industrial gears (geared products) market was expected to generate $14.2 billion in revenues in 2023, a slight decrease of 0.7 percent from 2022. However, over the next five years we anticipate the market will resume a steady growth trajectory following a further dip in 2024.
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.
Mitsubishi Electric Automation, Inc. is proud to be in attendance at the AHR Expo 2024! Mitsubishi Electric has been demonstrating at AHR for almost two decades as one of the leaders in the HVAC industry. The AHR Expo this year will be held at the McCormick Place in Chicago, IL to showcase the industry’s newest technologies and innovations.
Mark Ruberg, packaging industry manager at Beckhoff USA, will serve another four-year term on the PMMI Industry Relations Committee. As an experienced packaging industry expert, Ruberg has been active throughout his career with various committees and work groups at PMMI – The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies.
Effective January 1, 2024, Vicki Reeves will become the new global marketing and channel development director for the Perkins brand, responsible for defining and delivering the global marketing plan.
The AY110-40-01 Rotary Stage (pictured) from Optimal Engineering Systems, Inc. (OES) offers the users a high precision, low profile, compact motorized rotary stage.
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.
Electromate Inc. has announced the pre-order availability of Universal Robots' latest innovation - the UR30 collaborative robot (cobot). The UR30, boasting a 30 kg payload capacity, is the newest addition to Universal Robots' cutting-edge cobot lineup.
The Timken Company has acquired Lagersmit, a Netherlands-based manufacturer of highly engineered sealing solutions for demanding marine, dredging, water, tidal energy and other industrial applications.
ABB is strengthening its long-standing partnership with Volvo Cars to supply more than 1,300 robots and functional packages to build the next generation of electric vehicles. This will support the Swedish car manufacturer to achieve its ambitious sustainability targets.
With the CP150 compact controller, the wait for the electronics to start up again after the engine is shut down for a short time is completely eliminated. This saves time and increases productivity in everyday work. Operators can eliminate the wait and also decrease emissions with the CP150, reducing their environmental footprint. B&R uses the vehicle's battery for the standby function.
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.
Drive specialist Flender has received the Supplier Excellence Recognition Award 2023 from U.S. machinery manufacturer Caterpillar. Flender received the award for maintaining 95 percent delivery reliability and zero defects. This achievement is awarded only to the top suppliers of Caterpillar. It positions Flender as a top supplier for its global Aftermarket (Reman) Division business.
Shaft collars and mounts that can be adjusted without tools, plus handles and thumb screws to convert standard shaft collars to quick-adjust types, have been introduced by Stafford Manufacturing Corp. of Wilmington, MA. Stafford Quick-Adjust Products feature the Flip-Lok with a split hub and an integral adjustable clamp, Staff-Lok Lever-Actuated shaft collar, and the Python Flange Mounting Collar with a 6-hole bolt pattern and keyway. Suitable for a wide range of linear and low RPM rotary applications, these quick-adjust products can be easily repositioned by hand without tools.
Digital transformation is an ongoing process so we can expect to see this year's breakthrough trends continuing to shape society into next year. But how will these trends impact robotics and automation and what can the manufacturing industry expect to see next year?
Atlanta Gear Works (AGW) is expanding its support staff by hiring its first Human Resources Specialist, a new position created to meet its expanding HR needs, previously managed by the company’s chief financial officer.
Ruland has released mountable shaft collars with face holes for applications where the shaft collar needs to be directly mounted to a component such as a pulley, sprocket, or metallic plate. The shaft collars are available with drilled face holes that give the user flexibility in mounting hardware, or tapped holes that match the standard screw threading of the collar for ease of installation.
Verusen, the global MRO materials intelligence innovator, recently announced that it was named the winner of two leading technology awards for supply chain industry excellence. Verusen was recognized as a winning company in the ‘Top Tech Startup’ category for the supply chain and logistics space by leading industry publications Food Logistics and Supply & Demand Chain Executive. Verusen also won a Top Software & Tech Award for its AI-powered Trusted Supply in the Procurement/ERP category.
Portescap introduces the 60ECF brushless DC slotted flat motor, the newest frame size to join its flat motor portfolio and a significant expansion of its brushless flat technology capabilities. This 60mm BLDC motor features a 38.2mm body length and an outer rotor slotted configuration with an open body design, allowing it to deliver improved heat management in a compact package.
China is leading the world in the construction of solar, wind and thermal power plants to support its increasing demand for electrical energy. For those that use steam turbines, boiler feed pumps (BFPs) are a crucial asset and selecting the best design to suit the needs of an individual station can have many benefits. When a recent project needed some of the largest start-up BFPs available, Sulzer was selected as the preferred supplier.
Siemens Digital Industries Software has announced that Space Machines Company (SMC), an Australian space on-orbit services and logistics startup, has used the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio of industry software to design and build the Optimus Orbital Servicing Vehicle. One of the largest commercial spacecrafts being designed, manufactured, and assembled in Australia, is in development at the University of Technology Sydney’s Tech Lab.
NSK has developed HTF-SRM Ball Screws, a high-speed, heat-resistant version of its high-load drive ball screws, ideal for high-cycle, thin-wall molding in electric injection molding machines.
Boston Gear recently introduced the next generation of its 700 Series Worm Gear Speed Reducer. The SS700 Gen2 stainless steel speed reducer is an evolution of its first-generation series that has served the food and beverage industry for over 10 years.
Velo3D, Inc. has announced its Sapphire family of 3D printers are the first to achieve the U.S. Department of Defense’s (DoD) Green-level STIG (Security Technical Implementation Guide) Compliance. The certification allows Sapphire printers to be connected to the DoD’s Secret Internet Protocol Router Network (SIPRNet) and gives customers the confidence their metal 3D printers are hardened against potential cyberattacks.
AutomationDirect has added more ProSense XTH2 series fixed range, head-mounted temperature transmitters to their lineup of temperature transmitters/signal conditioners. The XTH2 series fixed-range transmitters are for Type Pt100 3-wire RTDs and are ready to use out-of-the-box with pre-configured measuring ranges up to 500°F (260°C).
VCI bags allow auto parts manufacturers and suppliers to eliminate greasy rust preventatives and opt for the dry protection of VCI film instead. Unfortunately, some VCI bags are doomed to failure, leading to the very corrosion that the VCI bag user was trying to prevent. To avoid these negative consequences, Cortec shares the best path to making sure your next VCI bag is the corrosion solution and not the problem.
SKF has expanded its portfolio of Condition Monitoring solutions with the SKF Enlight Collect IMx-1-EX sensor solution. Wireless monitoring of assets helps predict machine failure before it can escalate into a serious problem, such as an unscheduled shutdown. This can deliver multiple benefits, including reduced costs and a more sustainable operation of equipment.
The Ohio State University was joined by Ohio Lt. Gov. Jon Husted, congressional leaders, Honda, Schaeffler Americas and JobsOhio officials recently to announce the creation of a new battery cell research and development center.
Intellidrives Theta 2 theta stage consists of two rotation stages arranged in such a way that axis of rotation for both the stages are same. Both stages have preloaded ball bearing guides for wobble free rotation and positioning. 360° limitless movement is possible for inner and outer stages.
Edilservice from Tuscany (Italy) has joined the Mollo network as of November 1, 2023. It's headquartered in Monteriggioni, Siena, and now becomes the 54th active Mollo center in Italy and the 5th in Tuscany.
Siemens Digital Industries Software recently released HEEDS AI Simulation Predictor software and Simcenter Reduced Order Modeling software. These tools empower engineers to tackle the most complex challenges manufacturers face, delivering predictive performance with speed, precision, and efficiency.
Forest City Gear is proud to share that Mindy Young, shareholder and third daughter of Fred and Wendy Young, has been invited to join the Rockford Symphony Orchestra Foundation Board. Since 2007, the Board has been dedicated to financing and supporting the mission of the Rockford Symphony Orchestra.
Developing a new gearbox series is costly and time-consuming. This is especially true in marine propulsion, as classification society certifications must be achieved in addition to the required verifications. For this reason, Reintjes offers the same drives for various types of ships. In gearbox development, this means that each application requires different loads and usage profiles, with different service lives and maintenance intervals. Thus, each drive must be designed and calculated with advance consideration of every possible profile.
Manufacturing, chemical processing, food and beverage, construction, mining, oil and gas, agriculture, and power generation industries all employ the use of turbomachinery. Reliability and minimizing downtime are critical in these applications. Rolling bearings are integral to the operation of pumps and compressors and must be able to withstand moderate to heavy loading and harsh operating environments. A wide variety of ball, roller, and needle bearings can be found in these machines; however, this article will focus on the most common type of bearing used, the deep groove ball bearing.
This article examines the sound engineering practices and design principles needed to ensure the performance of mechanical linear motion components in sanitary washdowns or chemically cleaned environments. Relevant regulations and agencies, washdown-compatible materials, and best mounting practices and motion components for washdown applications are also discussed.
How does one accurately examine the components in a robotic arm or prosthetic leg? There’s not exactly time (nor space) to set up multiple cameras to track deformation or changes in shape of soft components.
Randy Stott, publisher of Power Transmission Engineering and Gear Technology magazines, recently sat down with Norm Parker, technical fellow and technical manager for Torque Transfer Systems at Stellantis, to discuss bearing technology during the Motion + Power Technology Expo in Detroit.
Moticont has released the GVCM-022-013-01 Linear Voice Coil Servomotor. This compact .875 in. (22.2 mm) diameter high speed, high force-to-size linear motor features high accuracy and high repeatability when operated in a closed loop as a DC servo motor. This brushless servo motor is clean, quiet and has long life, low mass and high acceleration/deceleration for high throughput.
The 2023 SPS trade fair in Nuremberg represented an important opportunity for Bonfiglioli to showcase its experience and expertise for industrial automation. This included mechatronic solutions specifically designed for packaging, intralogistics, robotics and IoT applications.
MiR Insights from Mobile Industrial Robots (MiR) is the 2023 winner of the New Equipment Digest Innovation Award in the automation category. As shared on NewEquipment.com this week, MiR Insights is a cloud-based software that empowers customers of MiR’s autonomous mobile robots to optimize the performance of their fleets and minimize downtime with data-driven intelligence.
NTN Bearing Corporation of America is proud to share its story of support for a local animal rescue. On Thursday, November 16th, NTN donated a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van with its cargo hold full of supplies to Wright-Way Rescue, but it didn’t happen without a bit of good fortune.
KUKA Robotics will spotlight a pair of innovative mobile robots March 11-14 in Booth B4003 at Modex 2024 in Atlanta. The KUKA KMP 1500P autonomous mobile platform and the KUKA KMP 600-S diffDrive mobile platform automated guided vehicle (AGV).
GWJ Technology GmbH introduces an extended version of the calculation module for involute splines within its web-based software solution eAssistant.
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.
The 2024 edition of MPIF Standard 35-SP – Materials Standards for PM Structural Parts has been released. This Standard is a must-have document and provides the design and materials engineer with the latest engineering property data and information available to specify materials for structural parts made using the PM process.
ABB Robotics has extended the scope of its free Wizard Easy Programming software to include its six-axis industrial robots powered by an OmniCore controller in addition to its collaborative robots. This makes ABB the first robot manufacturer to offer an easy-to-use, no-code programming tool for cobots and six-axis industrial robots, lowering barriers to automation for new users and offering ecosystem partners and integrators an efficient tool to support their customers.
ONYX Insight has unveiled a new upgrade to its fleetMONITOR technology which will enable wind operators to monitor the health of their turbines using data from Bently Nevada System.
ZF honors seven of its global suppliers for their excellent performance. The ZF Supplier Awards are presented as part of the Group-wide Global Supplier Summit, which this year focuses primarily on sustainability. At the virtual conference, around 1,000 participants from all over the world gain an insight into the technology group's corporate strategy, new technologies and the resulting new requirements and challenges relating to purchasing and logistics.
Movu Robotics, a supplier for designing, developing, and implementing innovative and easier warehouse automation solutions, announces the launch of the Movu eligo robot picking arm.
Kohler Energy recently announced a new hydrogen KDI engine and its first-ever hydrogen fuel cell power system, expanding an ever-growing portfolio of clean energy solutions during the Agritechnica trade show in Hanover, Germany on November 13.
Dana Incorporated has launched a comprehensive vehicle design methodology for delivering complete, integrated suspension solutions for high-performance agriculture tractors.
NTN, the parent company of BCA Bearings and Bower Bearings, is proud to announce the receipt of a 2023 Automotive Communications Award from Women in Auto Care. NTN received the award in the “Business-to-Business – Promotional Goods, Gear, Marketing Collateral” category for its BCA and Bower “Summer Cruisin” Promotions.
Portescap has announced that its facility in Mumbai, India has attained AS9100 certification. Internationally recognized as the defining standard for Quality Management Systems (QMS) in the aerospace industry, AS9100 outlines a set of rigorous requirements that aerospace suppliers must meet to ensure the quality and safety of their products and services.
Eaton Cummins Automated Transmission Technologies has announced its Endurant XD series automated manual transmission is now available in select Kenworth truck models in Mexico and Latin America.
Regal Rexnord Corporation will feature an Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV) concept controlled by Kollmorgen that is equipped with ModSort technology at Pittsburgh Robotics Discovery Day, Booth 224. The show will take place at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center on November 16, 2023.
AutomationDirect recently added the EQP Global SD severe duty motors from Toshiba. The Toshiba EQP SD series motors are designed to withstand the most severe conditions. Since most AC motor failures are a result of failed bearings, these inverter-duty motors feature oversized 300-series bearings for maximum motor longevity.
Routine refurbishment of important rotating machinery is vital for continued, reliable operation but if the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) fails to deliver an optimum service, what other options are available? For one oil company in Nigeria, issues with a gas compressor following an overhaul led to the maintenance team looking for an alternative solution. Sulzer was then selected to support the oil company, not only for its extensive experience in this equipment, but also its local service center that offered a tailored approach.
Stock Drive Products/Sterling Instrument (SDP/SI), a Designatronics, Inc. company, completed and passed its recertification AS9100:D and ISO 9001:2015 quality system audit. The audit, conducted by Intertek over a 5-day period, certifies SDP/SI’s quality management system conforms to AS and ISO standards.
Sales of Freudenberg Sealing Technologies’ premium Simriz perfluoroelastomeric (FFKM) compounds have increased by more than 100 percent in North America during the past 24 months. Buoyed in large measure by the compounds’ quality, superior performance capabilities, and near-immediate availability at a time when other supplies of FFKM have been unavailable, major companies in the aerospace, fluid handling, agriculture, and construction industries – as well as many of Freudenberg Sealing Technologies’ Preferred Distributors – now rely on Simriz compounds to fulfill their customers’ FFKM component requirements.
Olympus Controls is now inviting manufacturing professionals to AT&T Stadium for ‘Waves of Innovation’ a unique event featuring live demonstrations of the newest automation and robotics solutions presented by veteran problem solvers ready to discuss attendees’ manufacturing challenges. Armenta looks forward to hosting more than 20 different automation companies showcasing a wide range of automation: from collaborative robots handling grueling sanding and polishing tasks, to vision-guided robotic arms picking up items using deep learning algorithms, along with applications for automated machine loading, laser marking, and much more.
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.
KISSsoft supports the user with numerous calculations for different machine elements. The new KISSdesign module in KISSsoft supports the combination of these machine elements in building complex system transmissions containing any number of shafts, gears, and bearings.
A leading global copper producer has achieved exceptional results through the implementation of Vesconite Hilube wear-resistant bushings on load haul dump machines (LHDs). Departing from traditional bronze bushings, the mining company's adoption of Vesconite Hilube on Sandvik and Caterpillar LHD booms has led to an unprecedented increase in bushing lifespan, exceeding their initial expectations.
The Power Transmission Distributors Association (PTDA) has named Chris Bursack the 32nd recipient of its Warren Pike Award for lifetime achievement in the power transmission/motion control (PT/MC) industry. He received the accolade during the PTDA 2023 Industry Summit on October 20 in Amelia Island, FL.
ATI Industrial Automation has introduced the MC-50 Manual Tool Changer, which provides unmatched performance, reliability and quality for the manual exchange of robotic tooling.
TCI Precision Metals announces that its A36 Carbon Steel, Ready-to-Ship blanks are now available from OnlineMetals.com, an e-commerce metal and plastics supplier. The pre-machined blanks allow customers to order flat, square, and parallel materials to close tolerance specifications.
Increasing energy prices are a reality for every business, so it is important to identify processes that can help reduce operational costs and cut waste. Industries such as petrochemicals, refineries or fertilizer manufacturing have an opportunity to harness the energy in their processes to create electricity and export it to the local grid using hydraulic power recovery turbines (HPRTs). The key to a successful installation is in the selection of an expert designer and manufacturer.
Solid Edge is a portfolio of affordable, easy-to-use software tools that address all aspects of the product development process. Solid Edge combines the speed and simplicity of direct modeling with the flexibility and control of parametric design – made possible with synchronous technology. The following Q&A discusses Solid Edge 2024 with Dan Staples, vice president, mainstream engineering, Siemens Digital Industries Software.
Siemens Digital Industries Software has announced that Plastic Fischer, a social enterprise that works to reduce plastic waste in rivers, so it does not pollute our oceans, has adopted solutions from the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio of industry software to help scale its operations and bring the benefits of digital transformation to its product development and lifecycle management.
Burckhardt Compression recently partnered with one of Europe's leading steelmaking mills undergoing a significant transformation. The mill aimed to convert one of its plants into a sustainable facility in compliance with stringent environmental guidelines. The project's critical aspect involved reviving four non-Burckhardt compressors that had been inactive for a decade. Acknowledging the crucial role of these compressors in steel production, the mill sought the expertise of Burckhardt Compression.
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.
Moticont is releasing two 12.7 mm (0.500 in.) diameter Linear Voice Coil Motors, the LVCM-013-032-02M (Metric) and the LVCM-013-032-02 (Imperial).
Efficient power-saving braking for mobile robots is critical to minimize battery charging downtime. The new larger size Miki Pulley BXR-LE brakes are ideal for factories and similar applications using mobile robots.
Global market intelligence firm Interact Analysis recently made some revisions to its global manufacturing outlook forecast. According to the company’s latest research, the outlook for global manufacturing is bleak, and this looks set to continue throughout 2024 into early 2025. Europe in particular is feeling the pinch, while the Americas region fared well during the first half of 2023. Due to the semiconductor slump, manufacturing output in the Asia Pacific region is declining – the region accounts for almost 90% of semiconductor and components production.
Bosch Rexroth recently announced the grand opening of its new Hydraulics Training Center which opened on Sept. 20 at 2315 City Line Road Bethlehem, PA. This state-of-the-art training center provides a dynamic space for individuals to embark on a journey of learning and growth.
Danfoss is extending the expansion ecosystem. With stable performance, superior operating conditions, and six models to choose from, the EKE 100 range of superheat controllers and valve drivers supports highly reliable system functioning — encapsulating 20+ years of experience in superheat management.
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.
The American Gear Manufacturers Association (AGMA) announced the promotion of Jenny Blackford to the organization’s Chief Operating Officer (COO) today. In her new role, Blackford will oversee the association’s systems and processes, enterprise wide. In addition, she will have expanded roles relative to human and technology resources and investments.
Deutronic has developed a new line of charging computers to supply reliable power to the 12V board net for EV or gas-powered vehicles in multiple environments in the North American market. Company executives Zubin Verma and Tobias Wanzke will preview the capabilities of the DBL 1903-14 charger at the AAPEX automotive aftermarket show, October 31-November 2 at the Venetian Expo in Las Vegas.
The award-winning magazine, beanz, bringing educational and inspirational content about science, technology, engineering, art and math (STEAM) to children, is celebrating its 10th anniversary (and 67th edition). Published by Kids Code & Computer Science, Inc, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, beanz’ editorial team has produced award-winning magazines since 2013.
Bodine Electric Company introduces six new type 56R1-50JW/H stainless-steel hollow shaft gearmotors. These new geared motors combine a stainless-steel AC inverter-duty, 230/460 VAC motor with a stainless-steel hollow shaft gearhead. When used with an AC inverter (VFD) control, these gearmotors deliver variable speed and maintenance free operation over a wide speed range. Ideal for equipment that is subject to intensive cleaning, these new gearmotors also meet EU hygienic standards for food machinery. They are suitable for use in the food and beverage industry, pharmaceutical industry, and in permanently wet environments.
Transport for London (TfL) recently celebrated the launch of its 1,000th zero-emission bus – a StreetDeck Electroliner that entered service with Metroline at its Edgware garage, manufactured by Wrightbus and equipped with the Voith Electrical Drive System (VEDS). TfL plans to have its entire bus fleet operating with zero emissions by 2034.
SKF has played its part in securing a new world record: the furthest distance travelled by a prototype motorcycle on a single tank of fuel. The prototype bike clocked up 4,183.8 km on its journey from Albino in northern Italy to North Cape in Norway – without needing to refuel. SKF helped motorcycle components supplier Acerbis in its AC50 project to design the two-wheeler.
ZF recently introduced the new AxTrax 2 LF electric portal axle for low-floor city buses. The new axle represents ZF’s latest e-Mobility evolution, offering improved performance to further support the commercial vehicle industry’s transformation towards a more sustainable future. The series production of AxTrax 2 LF is set to commence in 2025.
Gates has announced an event that celebrates the capabilities of their Design Power Mobile app. In April 2023, Gates launched the Design Power Mobile app, revolutionizing how engineers and enthusiasts design belt drive systems. Now, they want to celebrate the achievements of app users with the Design Power Mobile Sonic Tension Meter Microphone Giveaway.
From 2022 to 2023, the global geared motors and industrial gears market is expected to experience a significant slowdown in growth. Interact Analysis' preliminary research shows that global sales of geared motors and industrial gears in 2023 are expected to be around $12.7 billion, a slight decrease compared with 2022.
WorldWide Electric announces the end of its exclusive low-voltage electric motor distribution relationship with H.D. Hyundai Electric Co., Ltd.
Bearing Specialists Association (BSA) and the Power Transmission Distributors Association (PTDA) announce the introduction of seals, linear bearings profile rail, bushings (hub fixing devices), chains and sprockets to the PIE Technology Platform (PIE).
How many software companies provide free advanced training to their customers dozens of times each year for 15 years straight? Global Shop Solutions, a leading provider of ERP software for manufacturers, does. In fact, they have been doing so for 15 years with Friday Features, a high-level ERP training webinar helping customers simplify their manufacturing by continually improving their ERP skills.
Bio-Ultimax1000, a biosynthetic formula that directly replaces mineral oil based hydraulic fluids, has a flash point of 450°F. This 200-degree cushion can mean the difference between safety and catastrophe when a hydraulic hose breaks and sprays a hot running engine.
Stock Drive Products/Sterling Instrument (SDP/SI) recently announced that they will be manufacturing specialized precision components for a new locking system in support of the U.S. Postal Service’s initiative in preventing the theft of mail.
Sumitomo Drive Technologies is expanding its range of precision gear products and upgrading its ECY series with higher torque and a plug & play drive for motor connection. The ECY series comprises high-precision shaft gears, used for example for surface machining in dental technology or in collaborative robots (cobots). Thanks to their internal cylindrical roller bearings, the gear units provide both high rigidity and higher performance in a smaller design envelope.
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.
This report derives the equation for relative elastohydrodynamic lubrication (EHL) film thickness. Mineral (MIN), polyalphaolefin (PAO), and polyalkylene glycol (PAG) lubricants with viscosity grades of ISO 320, 150, and 32 are analyzed.
Galil Motion Control, a renowned industry leader in the motion control market, is proud to announce the successful attainment of UL/CSA certification for several of its premier controller series. This milestone exemplifies Galil’s undying commitment to advancing safety, reliability, and quality in the products it delivers to customers globally.
From manufacturing to maritime, the quest for sustainable solutions has given rise to the development of environmentally friendly lubricants. Among these, Environmentally Considerate Lubricants (ECL) and Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants (EALs) have gained prominence for their positive impact on both equipment performance and the planet. Let’s delve into the differences and advantages of these lubricant classifications.
Digital transformation is one of the most effective approaches to help today’s CPG companies solve productivity and sustainability challenges. There are new and emerging automation technologies that CPGs can integrate within production lines to reduce energy consumption, streamline processes, increase machine availability and drive new levels of productivity and sustainability.
More energy efficiency, higher performance and better controllability are the main reasons why more electric drive systems are being operated with frequency converters. However, these devices can cause high-frequency, asymmetrical interference currents, which, as a current passage through the output and fan-side bearings, can cause damage and premature failure.
Current-compensated CoolBlue toroidal cores made of Magnetec’s nanocrystalline material Nanoperm have proven to be effective protection against such conducted interference and its consequences. In addition, the Nanoperm Line Absorbers NaLA can also be used to significantly suppress symmetrical interference currents.
The AD Bearings & Power Transmission community gathered in Charleston, South Carolina from August 15 to 17 for the group’s annual Network Meeting, strengthening connections and collaborating for mutual growth.
There are many ways we like to connect with our audience—in print (obviously), by e-mail, online at powertransmission.com, in person and via social media.
Hard work and good help can pay off, two young engineers have learned. Mixing undergraduate curiosity and real-world engagement together, two students from Colorado University (CU) Boulder Aerospace Engineering Sciences program, Zachary Lesan and Patrick Watson, started an independent effort on turbopump design and manufacture that is a lesson in determination and industry collaboration. Along the way, their project reinforced some significant points being made about next-generation rocketry.
TCI Precision Metals announced the expansion of its precision sawing services to meet the demands of customers wanting more flexibility in materials processing. Customers with needs ranging from precision sawing to six-sided precision machine-ready blanks can now be accommodated. Computerized precision sawing helps TCI to serve more of the customer’s materials needs. TCI sources aluminum, stainless steel, and other alloys mill-direct, which supports customers needing value-added materials, but the Company also works with customer-supplied materials.
Forest City Gear hosted a tour for students of the Gleason Gear School on September 20, 2023. For more than 70 years, Gleason Cutting Tools' school has led seminars in Rockford, IL on math, gear theory, and the required tooling, manufacture, and inspection of gears.
ABB is set to feature high-efficiency motor solutions during WEFTEC in Chicago, Illinois, USA, on October 2-4. Attendees are invited to visit Booth 2348 to learn from ABB experts about the company’s innovative products and services and the essential solutions they provide for water management and wastewater treatment. ABB’s Global Segment Manager Todd Huston and Global Product Marketing Manager Stefanie Casimir welcome visitors at the booth to discuss these products and their benefits to customers.
Voith announces another important development – the Future Inverter Platform (FIP) – for the VEDS drive system. The new inverter has been specifically designed to meet the requirements in the commercial vehicle segment and will be integrated into future generations of the VEDS, Voith's innovative electric drive concept for commercial vehicles that has proven highly effective in numerous applications in the bus segment since its introduction in 2021. The FIP technology will go into series production without integrated DMU in 2024 and with integrated DMU in 2025.
Stäubli officially inaugurated the Yinhai R&D and Intelligent Manufacturing Base only a few minutes away from its existing production site in Hangzhou, China. The substantial extension to its Chinese main base marks a milestone on the company’s growth path in the region.
The Dune Express is a 42-mile long, fully electric conveyor system that is expected to transform the Permian Basin and substantially improve the unacceptable safety risk existing on the Permian roadways. Originating from the Kermit, Texas facility and spanning into New Mexico, the Dune Express is intended to eliminate millions of truck miles driven across the Permian resulting in avoided traffic, accidents, injuries, and fatalities within the communities.
Heidenhain Corporation announces its participation in the Canadian Manufacturing Technology Show (CMTS), taking place from September 25-28th, 2023, at the Toronto Congress Centre, North, in Etobicoke, Ontario.
Toray Industries, Inc., has signed an agreement with Honda Motor Co., Ltd., to jointly develop a chemical recycling technology for glass-fiber reinforced nylon 6 parts recovered from end-of-life vehicles. The two have begun verifying this technology, which entails depolymerizing with subcritical water (see note) and regenerating the materials as caprolactam, a raw monomer.
Unless you work for a major network, you’ve probably never heard of them. But without the efforts of Drew Farrow and the team at ShowFab many of your favorite Broadway shows, news programs, and broadcast sporting events would not be possible. That’s because there’d be no colorful backdrops, no glitzy displays, and no lights or cameras moving silently overhead. The reason they’re silent? Nord Drivesystems whose gearmotors position the massive scenery seen moving in and above the sets of The Today Show, Fox News, Fox Sports, The NFL Network, and NewsNation, to name a few.
This year’s WEFTEC technical exhibition and conference will see Sulzer presenting several innovations in pumping, equipment control, filtration and aeration technology for the water and wastewater sectors. Exhibiting at Booth 3625 in the South Hall of McCormick Place in Chicago, IL., Sulzer’s water experts will be available from October 2-4 to discuss new advancements in energy efficiency, reliability and sustainability.
ABB Robotics is expanding its education offering with the launch of the IRB 1090. The 1090 industrial education robot, authenticated by the globally recognized education institute STEM.org, is designed to upskill students and provide them with a competitive advantage in securing employment. The new education robot forms a key part of ABB’s wider education offering, which includes additional industrial robots, as well as education packages, next generation controllers and market leading programming and simulation software.
Croix Gear, recognized as a leader in the custom manufacturing of loose gears, is excited to announce the addition of gear industry veteran, Mike McKernin, as Business Development Manager. With over 32 years of gear manufacturing experience and industry relationships, Mr. McKernin will help meet the diverse needs of Croix Gear’s customers.
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.
A worldwide manufacturer of many types of plastic has manufacturing facilities around the world, including one in the southeast that makes PVC stretch film. Imagine the film used to wrap meat at your local neighborhood grocery store, or that you might use to keep leftovers fresh for later in the week. Although the plant is designed for precision and automation, sometimes mechanical components derail those plans and require operator interaction to correct the components shortcomings. The clutch-brake on a turret winding system was not precise, which not only required operator interaction but also caused downtime. Replacing the dry clutch brakes with Force Control Oil Shear clutch brakes eliminated downtime, increased accuracy and repeatability, and slashed operator involvement – all while increasing throughout.
Motion + Power Technology (MPT) show brings together the gear and power transmission industries for a unique balance of education, new technologies and networking opportunities. The show takes place October 17-19,2023 in Detroit.
Designed for larger cameras, tracking devices, telescopes, optics, and other devices, four new, high resolution, three axis gimbal mounts have been released by OES (Optimal Engineering Systems, Inc.). This new series of Three Axis Gimbal Mounts are 588 mm wide by 463 mm high, and handle loads up to 10 kg. The AU400-AER (Azimuth, Elevation, and Roll) Series of Three Axis Gimbal Mounts feature high precision 180:1 worm gear driven “V” groove rotary stages. Each axis is capable of 360 degrees of continuous rotation in clockwise and counterclockwise directions. The position is held economically when the motor current is removed as worm gears cannot be back driven. The Roll Stage has a precision pattern of threaded holes for mounting tooling, cameras, lasers, etc., and a through hole for cables and optics. Devices up to 395 mm wide can be mounted on the rotary stage.
Automation specialist B&R is using this year's PackExpo exhibition in Las Vegas to feature open solutions with Codian robot mechanics, now integrated and rebranded within B&R. The Codian portfolio of delta configurations, including class-leading hygienic models, is open to any control platform and can be incorporated into any machine configuration. B&R's Machine-Centric Robotics solution combines Codian mechanics and B&R controls to offer machine builders and manufacturers single-source robotics and automation for precise synchronization and ease of engineering – ideal when implementing highly flexible packaging solutions.
The Canadian Manufacturing Technology Show (CMTS), Canada's largest industry event, makes its return at its new home – the Toronto Congress Centre – from September 25-28, 2023. Over 500 suppliers and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), more than 8,000 manufacturing professionals and 250,000+ square feet of manufacturing excellence, housing 500,000+ pounds of live equipment are featured.
By definition, a spherical roller bearing (SRB) is a rolling element bearing that permits rotation with low friction and permits angular misalignment. SRBs consist of spherical rolling elements, an outer ring, a cage as well as an inner ring with two raceways inclined at an angle to the bearing axis. SRB technology has landed the component in unique applications including high pressure grinding rolls (HPGRs), pipelaying ships, Ferris wheels and even a Cold War–era marine espionage mission.
The Houston Turbomachinery & Pump Symposia (TPS), still organized by the Turbomachinery Laboratory at Texas A&M University, will gather for the 52nd Turbomachinery and 39th Pump Symposium annual event from September 26–28, at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston.
The Timken Company has acquired Des-Case Corp., a Nashville, Tenn.-based manufacturer of specialty filtration products for industrial lubricants. Founded in 1983, the company serves customers across a variety of industrial end markets. Des-Case's revenue for the calendar year 2023 is expected to be around $40 million.
Conveying parcel delivery with no system downtime is accomplished with speed and accuracy using Miki Pulley CSZ Clutches. Conveyors continuously operate via servomotor power by way of a V-belt. The system automatically switches on/off as programmed when engaged by the CSZ Clutches.
Mechanical motion components, though relatively small, contribute immensely to the safety of multiple systems like automobiles, manufacturing systems, elevators, water treatment facilities, etc. Motion components experience wear and tear over time caused by:
ZF has developed an electric motor which does not require magnets. In contrast to the magnet-free concepts of so-called separately excited synchronous motors (SESM) already available today, ZF’s I2SM (In-Rotor Inductive-Excited Synchronous Motor) transmits the energy for the magnetic field via an inductive exciter inside the rotor shaft. This makes the motor uniquely compact with maximum power and torque density.
The Power Transmission Distributors Association (PTDA) welcomes three new distributors to its membership including Gordon Russell, MROSupply.com and Grainger.
A slow U.S. economy and high interest rates have taken a toll on robot orders in North American, resulting in a decline for the second quarter in a row after record purchases in 2021 and 2022. According to the latest report from the Association for Advancing Automation (A3), companies ordered 7,697 robots valued at $457 million from April to July 2023, a 37% decline in robot orders and 20% drop in value over the same period in 2022.
Trade show and event season is upon us. This issue we feature several upcoming shows that are extremely important in terms of mechanical power transmission components and the technology of motion control.
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.
JW Winco has expanded its product range with two compact and robust angular gearboxes that translate rotational movements by 90 degrees and transmit high torques with or without a gear ratio. They are suitable for applications such as handling systems, packaging machines, and conveyor technology.
Motion Industries, Inc. named NSK “2022 Supplier of the Year.” The award recognizes companies that have shown exceptional commitment to Motion through quality products and services and earned the highest score in the multi-faceted Supplier Stratification rating system. The presentation took place July 18, 2023, at NSK’s manufacturing facilities in Franklin, TN.
Voith Turbo North America has broken ground on a $5 million expansion of its workshop in York, Pa. The expansion will increase the Group Division’s American manufacturing capabilities.
Heidenhain Corporation announces its participation in the upcoming NAEC (National Association of Elevator Contractors) 2023 Convention & Exposition. Connecting professionals from all over the elevator industry, NAEC will take place from September 10-13 at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center, Nevada.
The most comprehensive packaging and processing event in North America this year, Pack Expo Las Vegas 2023 (Sept. 11–13; Las Vegas Convention Center), will be the largest in its history. Produced by PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, Pack Expo Las Vegas will feature more than 2,000 exhibitors showcasing the newest innovations for more than 40 vertical markets, spanning nearly 1 million square feet of exhibit space.
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.
Digital data models and the latest calculation methods lay the foundations for a further improvement in the performance of Generation X.e. SEW-Eurodrive continuously factors the findings of field/test stand trials and simulations into its own calculations, thereby improving their accuracy and reliability. The mechanical and thermal design of the X..e series was once again precisely evaluated on this basis. In conjunction with the component optimizations already implemented in the past, this results in even higher thermal limit ratings, a much longer bearing service life, and higher nominal torques. Moreover, larger application angles are now permissible with the maximum overhung load.
Digital Metrology Solutions, provider of measurement software, consulting, and training, has introduced TraceBoss+ (TraceBoss Plus) software, integrating surface texture and crosshatch measurement in a single package.
At this year’s AIMEX, Sulzer will demonstrate its extensive knowledge of mining equipment. Offering a comprehensive range of services, Sulzer’s experts deliver cost-effective, pro-active maintenance support for all rotating equipment.
Jergens appoints Miguel Carreon as its product and business development Manager for Mexico. In his role Carreon is responsible for sales and related activities for all three product lines throughout Mexico’s 32 states.
Advanced Motion Controls (AMC) is proud to announce the addition of six new CANopen servo drives with Extended Environment capabilities to their FlexPro line. These new drives join AMC's existing EtherCAT Extended Environment FlexPro drives, making the FlexPro line the go-to solution for motion control applications in harsh environments.
The Timken Company is providing slewing drives for the second-largest photovoltaic (PV) solar tracking system project in Australia. Solar tracker manufacturer ATEC chose Timken's Cone Drive solution to help it overcome challenging wind conditions in the mountainous region of New South Wales, where the 280 MW Wollar Solar Farm is being constructed.
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.
Nord Drivesystems will be exhibiting at Pack Expo Las Vegas from September 11-13, 2023, in Booth #7863 in the South Upper Hall.
When engineers at Hoover Dam determined that the original cast iron lantern rings built into some of its turbines needed to be replaced, they were looking for a solution to help them overcome the corrosion issues they experienced with the cast iron.
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.
Siemens Digital Industries Software recently announced that Tianneng Battery Group Co., Ltd. has selected the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio of industry software to help it drive innovation and enable digital manufacturing in new battery production.
NTN Bearing Corporation of America is pleased to announce the release of its latest product offering, the SNC plummer block. The SNC blocks are yet another heavy-duty mounted unit designed specifically to accommodate the rigors of applications within construction, mining, and other large-scale equipment applications.
NKE Austria GmbH (Booth #3C16) will exhibit at this year's Husum Wind trade show taking place September 12-15 in Husum, Germany. The Austrian bearing manufacturer participates for the first time at the fair for renewable energies in Northern Germany.
Allied Motion Technologies Inc., a global designer and manufacturer of precision and specialty motion, controls and power products and solutions for targeted industries and applications, announced that shareholders approved its corporate name change to Allient Inc. at a special meeting of shareholders held on August 11, 2023. The new name will be effective August 23, 2023, and at the opening of the markets that day, the company’s shares will commence trading under the new ticker ALNT on the Nasdaq.
With the introduction of their first IE5+ permanent magnet synchronous motor in 2021, Nord Drivesystems delivered a new standard of energy efficiency, variant reduction, and reduced operating costs. This Size 71 TENV smooth surface design has paved the way for additions to the IE5+ product family including ventilated designs and larger frame sizes to expand performance and versatility even further. These motors are UL/CSA certified and can be utilized across a wide range of industries and applications.
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.
Regal Rexnord Corporation introduces its new Rexnord 6997 Series MatTop Chain. The chain offers an innovative new solution for the increasing performance demands of Pasteurizer, Warmer and Cooler tunnel applications.
After nearly five years of planning, Continental is excited to announce Atlas Energy Solutions has contracted Continental to supply the conveyor belt for the Dune Express, a world-renowned conveyor system accompanied by digital solution components.
Forum Energy Technologies (FET) has appointed UnderOcean Servicos Maritimos (UnderOcean) to represent its Subsea operations in Brazil. The partnership will see UnderOcean provide business development and engineering support on behalf of FET’s Subsea Technologies product line in Brazil. Headquartered in Macaé, Rio de Janeiro, UnderOcean will deliver service, repair, calibration, upgrades, and modifications for FET’s remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), associated tooling and Dynacon Launch & Recovery Systems.
A new version of the MESYS shaft and rolling bearing analysis software including new functionality is available. The bearing analysis software allows the calculation of the load distribution within the bearing and bearing life according to ISO/TS 16281 and it is integrated in a shaft system calculation with additional possibilities like modal analysis, strength calculation for shafts and interfaces to gear calculations. Currently the software is used by customers in 31 countries on 4 continents. The new version is now available.
Rollon has introduced its TLS Series of telescoping linear actuators. The new series is designed to maximize productivity for applications where space is limited — especially for applications with minimal vertical clearance, such as between the machine and ceiling, or horizontally between machines.
Almost 200 people from AD member and service provider companies across various industries and multiple countries gathered in St. Louis at the 2023 AD Finance, HR & IT Summit from July 19 to 21 for three days of cross-functional collaboration and best practice sharing.
After reading Senior Editor Matt Jaster’s article this issue (“Advancing Technology for MRO,” p. 18), I have visions of the maintenance engineer of tomorrow. He’s not wearing a hard hat and steel-toe boots. No, he’s wearing ripped jeans and a ball cap (backwards), and he’s holding a game controller, because he’s operating the drone system your company is using to do visual and thermal inspection of your equipment, saving you enormous time and effort in your predictive maintenance routine.
A sneak peek into the factory of the future has a sweet spot—so to speak. Several conveyor belts transport chocolate bars that are part of a demonstrator machine that shows how artificial intelligence can be used for motion control. What remains to be done in a real factory is to automatically pack the chocolate bars. In this Intelligent Infeed Demonstrator machine from Siemens Digital Industries, the chocolate bars must be placed in evenly spaced slots on the outfeed belt.
Gates Design Power and Gates Design Power Mobile combine unique functionality to provide an end-to-end solution that can help from basic troubleshooting and site surveys to full site chain-to-belt replacement and create your most complex power transmission (PT) design applications.
Technical sales personnel use intelligent features to select suitable motor-gearbox combinations and run calculations based on customer-specific operating data. This provides obvious added value for the customer. Service lives, safeties, and expected loads can all be determined in a short time. Maintenance of the underlying database and the use of simulation tools make it possible to quickly and easily perform technical calculations without having to rely on a central calculation department. In less than a minute, the customer is provided with a data sheet which includes reliable statements about the gearbox based on these technical calculations.
This review of Ref. 1 summarizes the conclusions of test data and numerical simulations showing that Stribeck curves for counterformal contact are different from Stribeck curves for conformal contact.
TPS, still organized by the Turbomachinery Laboratory at Texas A&M University, will gather for the 52nd Turbomachinery and 39th Turbo annual event from September 26–28, at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston.
The prediction and prevention of catastrophic failures and unplanned downtime has vastly improved areas like mining, energy, off-highway, and other industrial segments for MRO departments across manufacturing thanks to cutting-edge condition monitoring technology and predictive maintenance.
Neugart GmbH celebrated the official groundbreaking ceremony for its new Plant 3 at its Kippenheim headquarters on July 26. With an investment of more than 25 million euros and a floor space of over 7,000 square meters, the company is thus setting a forward-looking example for further growth and even improved production processes.
The MAXOLUTION process by SEW-Eurodrive modules in the large-scale model are intelligently networked via mobile transport and assistance systems and offer a clear insight into what tomorrow's world of adaptable production could look like. Outstanding performance can be achieved with the aid of supporting automation and future-proof material flow and logistics concepts.
Kollmorgen has announced ATEX certification and IECEx/cETLus listing for the explosion-proof Goldline EBH 480 Vac servomotor. These new explosion-proof approvals for the high-voltage Goldline EBH servomotor exemplify Kollmorgen’s commitment to advancing the state of the art in motion control and meeting the most demanding application requirements.
The solar-powered butterfly is a 30-foot-long tiny house in the shape of a butterfly, which charges the electric vehicle it tows. The tour is focused on reaching millions of people, alerting them to the companies and individuals that are integral in transitioning societies away from fossil fuels towards 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.
The Timken Company is experiencing strong demand for the broad range of application-proven products and services it offers the food and beverage industry. Timken has built a comprehensive food and beverage portfolio through both organic and inorganic growth, including its 2022 addition of GGB Bearings, and achieved a total sales compound annual growth rate of more than 30 percent in the market-sector over the last five years. The company expects an expanding global footprint, new product line launches and growing demand for food worldwide to drive additional growth in the coming years.
Shorter delivery times because of more efficient production was the explicit aim of the Iwis Czech plant. Iwis has invested massively in the automation of production in Strakonice in recent months to further reduce manual operations. New automatic machines for inner and outer links were taken into operation to produce JWIS-branded accumulation chains, and chain assembly was also further automated.
Fred Young, 80, former president and CEO, Forest City Gear passed away on July 17, 2023. A graduate of Harlem High School, class of 1961, Young obtained his BA in English Literature from Rockford University, class of 1965, and went on to spend a year in the Navy Reserves. After spending nearly 40 years as an adventuring bachelor outdoorsman, he met the love of his life, Wendy Nutter, marrying her on the banks of the Wolf River on June 6, 1981. Fred’s greatest joys were his three daughters, whom he taught to always seek adventure, bestow kindness and generosity, treasure friendship, and work hard and play hard. Fred took over the family business, Forest City Gear, in 1967. Founded by his parents in 1955, Fred took the small mom-and-pop shop to a global level, leading the company to manufacture some of the world’s most difficult gearing for amazing end uses from NASA’s Martian rovers and space station to robotic arms and racing yachts.
ZF Friedrichshafen AG (ZF Group), one of the world’s largest automotive suppliers, and Hon Hai Technology Group (“Foxconn”), the world’s largest electronics manufacturer, recently announced a 50-50 partnership in passenger car chassis systems, a key move aimed at accelerating and expanding automotive and supply chain opportunities with top-tier customers.
Harsh operating conditions are present in many industries such as food and beverage, bakery, automotive parts washing, chemical, water treatment, marine, car wash, and pharmaceutical industries. Applications in these environments are often subjected to intensive cleaning, high-pressure washing, and disinfection processes to meet the highly regulated, hygienic standards. To prevent gear motors from material destruction due to the rigorous cleaning agents and disinfectants, Nord Drivesystems developed nsd tupH – a sealed surface conversion system that ensures easy yet safe cleaning, ultimate surface durability, and wear resistance.
The Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers (STLE) – the premier technical society serving the needs of the tribology and lubrication engineering field – is pleased to announce the release of its 2023 Report on Emerging Issues and Trends in Tribology and Lubrication Engineering. The key conclusion from the 56-page report is that the application of existing and novel tribology approaches has the potential to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and, as a consequence, play a prominent role in helping organizations implement sustainability practices and achieve climate change mitigation goals.
Fixtureworks (Fraser, MI) a North American manufacturer and supplier of clamps, fixturing accessories, machine tool components and rollers & bumpers, now offers a line of mechanical linear actuators.
Croix Gear, recognized as a leader in the custom manufacturing of loose gears, is excited to announce new branding for the organization. Ruthie Johnston, CEO/Owner, stated, “We are excited to have our brand reflect how Croix Gear has grown and developed over the past several years. It is a new look, but the same commitment to our customers, team members and industry.”
Ogura’s new MCNB-Z series Spring Applied Brakes are changing the way robotics and medical equipment designers look at power-off holding brakes. These are used for both safety and precision motion control. For decades, permanent magnet type brakes were the only reliable solution. This is no longer the case, thanks to this new breakthrough design.
After a long and successful OEM partnership with Ansys, RBF Morph has two proprietary products featured among the world simulation leader's offerings: Ansys RBF Morph Fluids and Ansys RBF Morph Structures.
The two simulation tools are based on RBF Morph's 10+ years of experience with 100+ global customers, including some of the top players and OEMs in the automotive and aerospace industries.
Burckhardt Compression recently provided a full range of compressor and auxiliary services for four marine vessels that were undergoing their five-year service at a dry dock in Korea. All four vessels were under a long-term service agreement (LTSA) with Burckhardt Compression, which made it possible for the scope and expected spare parts to be prepared well ahead of time. The service was completed within three and a half months, despite the challenges of hot and rainy weather as well as a confined work area with simultaneous work ongoing by different teams.
Kollmorgen recently announced the launch of Kollmorgen Express Delivery. This new designation identifies highly popular motion products — including some of the most requested configurations and options — that Kollmorgen is ready to deliver within an accelerated timeframe. Machine builders have always benefited from Kollmorgen’s wide range of standard product configurations, features and options. This broad portfolio serves the unique needs of many diverse industries and applications but can create challenges for rapid delivery, especially when material supplies are constrained.
Binder USA announced new angled variants of its snap-in 720 and NCC 770 series miniature connectors. A notable design change is the addition of a threaded ring between the contact body and the angled housing. This enables connectors to withstand loads that far exceed standard requirements, even when the force is applied at an angle to the connector axis.
Nexen Group, Inc., announced a new line of Rotary Indexers. The X-Line delivers up to three times more torque and greater moment load capacity in a compact package.
Nearthlab, a leading provider of autonomous drone technology, announced that the company is scaling up its strategic partnership with ONYX Insight, a global provider of predictive maintenance solutions (PdM) beyond North America to Europe and APAC. The expansion comes a few months after the initial kick-off in March.
It is with great sadness that Forest City Gear announces the death of Fred Young, former president and CEO. Fred took over the family business, Forest City Gear, in 1967. Founded by his parents in 1955, Fred took the small mom-and-pop shop to a global level, leading the company to manufacture some of the world's most difficult gearing for amazing end uses from NASA's Martian rovers and space station to robotic arms and racing yachts.
Festo Didactic recently provided SkillsUSA Championship Competition participants (Mechatronics Section) with advanced training technology at the 2023 National Leadership and Skills Conference June 19-23, Georgia World Congress Center and State Farm Arena, Atlanta.
Wood and plastic? Is that a good combination? The motion plastics specialist igus has researched the idea in a recent design study and tested the friction and wear behavior of its plastic linear bearings on a wide variety of wood, and the result is impressive. The igus econ J4 plain bearing has demonstrated its exceptional compatibility with various kinds of wood, opening new possibilities for furniture makers and design engineers when choosing materials.
Elgeti Engineering once again is offering its online bearing seminars for Fall 2023. Special packages are available for online 90-minute sessions.
Heidenhain announces EnDat 3, a new version of its popular absolute position encoder interface. The new EnDat 3 interface has all the benefits of previous versions, but is even faster and more robust, with simplified functional safety features.
Alpha Trains, the leading locomotive and trains lessor in Europe, has awarded Siemens Mobility a long-term service and maintenance contract. The contract covers the complete maintenance of Vectron locomotives over a period of 15 years, including revisions at the Siemens Rail Service Center in Munich-Allach. Maintenance of the locomotives will be tailored to their operation and carried out as needed in thirteen different countries at the Siemens Mobility Service facilities located along the major trans-European rail corridors.
Precision Drive Systems (PDS), a global provider of precision motor spindles, expert support, and repair near Charlotte, NC, has announced that it has hired Patrick Hutson as business development specialist.
Regal Rexnord Corporation has launched its new Rexnord 6400 Series KleanTop Plastic Spiral Cage Belts for food manufacturers. The 6400 Series is ideal for customers who want to increase productivity while reducing system costs and food safety risks.
Burckhardt Compression, a leading manufacturer of reciprocating compressors and a full-service provider, has received an exclusive Certificate of Apprenticeship from the U.S. Department of Labor to train and certify Laby Compressor Technicians. This recognition underscores the company’s commitment to enhancing the skills of its workforce and contributing to the broader industry.
Nord’s newly improved NEMA and IEC input adapters offer improved mechanical and thermal performance, giving users more flexibility in designing drive systems and allowing for a broader range of application and environment-specific concepts through extended options such as integrated backstops and speed sensors. The redesigned input adapters are available NEMA sizes 250TC – 400TC and from IEC sizes 160 – 315
AD has closed its merger with The Baron Group, the premier cooperative serving independent groundwater systems distributors, effective June 30, 2023.
Emerson Bearing, a Boston, MA-based bearing company catering to niche markets nationwide and the sister company of Action Bearing which serves the New England market, announces the availability of a complimentary E-Book and other online resources for Type E Mounted Bearings.
When older equipment starts to affect the output from the power plant – operators need to act fast, to avoid production risks escalating. This is especially true for legacy pumps. However, sourcing new units to fit the surrounding infrastructure and application requirements of the plant can be challenging. When a major thermal power plant in Rajasthan, India, faced multiple issues with an aging boiler infeed pump, the energy player overcame supply and technical challenges through their partnership with Sulzer. Sulzer provided a custom solution under its OEM-X line service, that cushioned the impact to production, while offering the assurance of reliable associated support, spanning maintenance and spares for decades to come.
Andantex USA Inc. will be renamed Redex USA Inc., according to Thomas Osygus, vice president of sales and marketing, Redex USA. "Our name is changing, but we will continue to offer the same high-quality motion control systems you’ve come to expect from us for over 40 years."
Regal Rexnord Corporation has launched a redesigned series of its long-serving, industry-leading Autogard F400 Series torque limiter. This next generation Autogard F400 Series offers significant improvements whilst remaining a drop-in replacement for the legacy 400 Series, matching its predecessor in form, fit and function.
The FIRST Robotics competition is a global program that brings together students, parents, teachers, mentors and experts in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Widely recognized as a great source of young engineering talent, many high-profile companies sponsor the event and use it to attract new employees. Burckhardt Compression has been supporting the 5409 Chargers team from Oakville, Canada since 2017 and this year they qualified for the world championships in Houston, TX.
Ruland beam couplings are ideal for surgical, warehouse, and industrial robotics due to their increased torque and torsional stiffness and ability to accommodate all forms of misalignment. Ruland manufactures four-beam couplings for encoders and six-beam couplings for light-duty power transmission, such as connecting a stepper or servomotor to a lead screw. This allows robotic designers to design a standard beam coupling into most systems.
Gates recently published its annual Sustainability Report for 2022. The report highlights our progress on the four pillars of our sustainability strategy: Governance, Technology, Environment, and Stewardship.
KISSsoft has announced that NSK has provided their extensive bearing data “catalogue data” for inclusion in KISSsoft software with release 2023. With this, the engineer can execute static rating, basic and modified life rating based on load capacity numbers in line with ISO 281 and ISO 76 along with thermal rating. The bearing database in KISSsoft gives access to up-to-date NSK bearing data in an easy to use yet detailed manner using the shaft-bearing system modeler.
IKO is pleased to announce that Jeff Williams has joined the company as national distribution sales manager. Contributing to IKO's efforts to build and enhance relationships with valued customers, Williams will be based in Parsippany, NJ and will work closely with distributors and sales teams.
When drives are being used in closed and well-protected rooms, they don't need to be painted or coated. That is why ECO2 gearmotors from SEW-Eurodrive, which feature an aluminum housing, offer a solution that is as sustainable as it is cost-effective.
ABB Robotics is expanding its large robot range with four new models and 22 variants, offering more choice, increased coverage and greater performance. The next generation models include the IRB 6710, IRB 6720, IRB 6730 and IRB 6740, suitable for payloads ranging from 150kg to 310kg, with a reach from 2.5m to 3.2m, offering customers greater choice and significant performance and energy efficiency improvements.
Forest City Gear, an industry-leading manufacturer of fine and medium pitch custom gears, is proud to announce the hire of Chris Hart as Supplier Quality Engineer. Some of his responsibilities in this role include conducting supplier audits and on-site visits, issuing corrective actions to suppliers, and working to improve the partnerships with all our suppliers.
Nord Drivesystems has seen exponential growth over the last several years as more companies incorporate automation into their workflow. In 2022, they had a record-breaking year and achieved over $1 Billion in sales for the first time in company history. The U.S. subsidiary of this family-owned German company currently operates out of three separate facilities– Corona, CA, Charlotte, NC, and Waunakee, WI, which also serves as their U.S. corporate headquarters.
Rotork Controls has established a global reputation for robust and reliable valve actuators, operating in some of the world’s most demanding and critical applications. Thorough testing of the motors used in the actuators is one of the keys to this assured performance, with TorqSense transducers from Sensor Technology playing a vital role in the test process.
Schaeffler introduced a Wind Power Standard for wind turbine bearings more than ten years ago, which considers the high demands on the reliability of turbines and associated components. This standard for products and processes ensures that wind turbine bearings are subject to the highest quality standards, as also implemented, for example, in the automotive industry, and in the aviation and aerospace sectors. The start of the year marked the manufacture and delivery of the millionth bearing by Schaeffler in accordance with the Wind Power Standard.
The Neugart Calculation Program (NCP) configuration tool reliably leads to the most cost- and energy-efficient gearbox-motor combination. In the new NCP 4.3 version the performance of the program has been improved further through enhanced multi-core usage of the processor. Above all, effective immediately the proven software will offer many additional features and optimizations - including better comparisons and rack-and-pinion drives.
For the second time within five years, a key figure at Universal Robots (UR), the Danish manufacturer of collaborative robots (cobots), has been awarded the world’s most prestigious robotics prize, the Joseph F. Engelberger Robotics Award, often described as the Nobel Prize of robotics.
At the SPS Italia event in Parma, Bonfiglioli presented technologies including its mechatronic solutions for industrial automation, packaging and intralogistics, robotics and IoT.
The 2023 EASA Convention, June 25-27, at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in National Harbor, MD. EASA (https://easa.com/convention) supports companies involved in the service and sale of electric motors, pumps, drives, controls, gearboxes and other rotating machinery. Highlights include synchronous motors, machine reliability, leadership, sustainability, EASA's 90th birthday bash, motor maintenance, pump repair, supply chain issues and more.
Fenner Precision Polymers, a Michelin Group Company and world leader in reinforced polymer technology, announced the purchase of 41 acres of property zoned for light industrial development in Lancaster County’s Penn Township. Fenner plans to develop the site, previously owned by Kreider Farms, as a 400,000-square-foot world-class, environmentally responsible manufacturing facility. The project plans to consolidate the majority of Fenner’s manufacturing plant sites in Pennsylvania into one location. The property is located at 426 Hostetter Road, Manheim.
ETP-Classic Keyless Shaft Locking Bushings provide faster, more accurate, and concentric mounting of shaft mounted components compared to mechanical shaft locking bushings. This field-proven solution has been used for over 50 years by tens of thousands of satisfied users across 5 continents and 30 different countries.
Sports fans want to see every little detail, and the TV cameras deliver whether the goalie is clenching his jaw before the spot kick or how many millimeters the serve cleared the net in a tennis match, everything is captured in detail. Images like these are only possible when the camera is up-close and doesn’t interfere with the action. Many major tournaments and Olympic Games use miniature devices, which even fit in a corner flag, from the Wiesbaden-based specialist LMP Lux Media Plan. Drive units from Faulhaber are used to adjust the shutter and focus.
The Power Transmission Distributors Association (PTDA) will convene for the PTDA 2023 Industry Summit in Amelia Island, Fla. on October 19-21, 2023. This year’s program—themed “Discover”— will offer cross-channel networking, shared learning and collaborative experiences.
JKF Americas Inc, a subsidiary of JK Fenner (India) Ltd., has redesigned their North American website, featuring the outstanding Top Drive line of belts, hoses and accessories for automotive and industrial markets. The website features dynamic design, informative videos, vehicle part lookup, literature downloads, company news and fast load times for efficient browsing.
Nord Drivesystems continuously looks for opportunities to gain manufacturing efficiencies and implement practices that have less impact on the environment. In 2012, Fertigungstechnik Nord, a member of the Nord Drivesystems Group located in Gadebusch, Germany, developed a concept for heat recovery from machine tools in their production areas.
The Voith Group achieved significant gains in the first six months (October 1, 2022 to March 31, 2023) of the current fiscal year 2022/23 despite a market environment that continues to be challenging. Voith increased both its sales and EBIT in all Group Divisions. Orders received exceeded the already high figure from the previous year.
Kurt Hydraulics has introduced a new lineup of stainless-steel couplings for applications ranging from marine hydraulics to food production and medical processes to fertilizer and chemical handling or other tough applications requiring washdowns.
Brazil’s largest producer of ethanol from sugarcane waste is embarking on a major wave of investment. With plans to build 20 second-generation processing facilities over the next seven years, Raízen has picked Sulzer as a key technology supplier.
The path toward success in mechanical power transmission today hinges on an organization’s ability to provide smart and digital automation solutions. Customers are looking for system components boasting more performance, precision, and cost effectiveness in robotics and industrial automation applications. Schaeffler, the global technology company specializing in solutions for the automotive and industrial sectors, offers a strong and diverse product range not only for large industrial robots, but also for lightweight and collaborative robots (cobots).
Brakes and clutches play a crucial role in various applications, and their importance lies in their ability to control motion and transmit power with precision and accuracy and enhance the safety and protection of personnel and equipment. They also optimize energy consumption and reduce downtime. The ability to integrate these components into OEM applications is essential. Below we focus on the brake and clutch solutions provided by Force Control, Miki Pulley, and Ringfeder.
Motion Plus has announced the release of the Motus1 (M1) industrial positioning actuator. This new addition brings a belt- and screw-driven industrial linear positioner for superior performance to Motion Plus's already broad portfolio of in-stock, high-quality automation components.
Motion Plus has signed a landmark agreement with NSK Ltd., a global leader in high quality automation and bearing products. This strategic partnership will facilitate the distribution of NSK's superior automation products through Motion Plus's storefront where a customer can use filters to easily select the right stocked or custom-made product.
Schneeberger highlighted its precision linear positioning and motion systems, solutions, and deep engineering expertise at Automate 2023. The company featured its MINIRAIL miniature guideways, MONORAIL AMS distance measuring system, gear racks, linear and linear roller guideways, SLA Actuators, mineral cast machine foundations, and more.
eSOL, a global specialist in the development of real-time embedded software solutions, has extended its recently launched eMCOS software development kit (SDK) with the introduction of a new hardware-related board support package (BSP).
A hydro turbine company based in Portland, Maine, has chosen Vesconite Bearings’ lowest-friction material for the thrust bearings on its free-stream turbines.
3BG Supply Co. (3BG) recently announced the completion of its acquisition of Controls and Electric Motor Company (CEMCO).
Automate 2023 features educational tracks on everything from AI, smart automation, and innovations to AMRs and collaborative robots. The following article examines some of the key topics and presentations during the show.
According to updated research by market intelligence firm Interact Analysis, the collaborative robot (cobot) market will enjoy modest growth out to 2032, with annual growth rates sitting at around 20 percent. ‘Collaboration’ between humans and robots is now widely accepted so robot manufacturers suggest that the key to future success will be their ability to scale up production and develop new application scenarios. The logistics industry will also play an important role in this growth trajectory.
Forge announced that it is partnering with Dassault Systèmes, a 3D design, simulation and manufacturing software company, to support Forge’s startups and innovators. Forge is a nonprofit that helps connect innovators with nearby manufacturing resources to help bring new products to market and keep supply chains local.
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
Applied Manufacturing Technologies (AMT), North America’s largest independent automation engineering company supporting manufacturers, robot companies, systems integrators, line builders, and users of robotic automation worldwide, today announced the promotion of chief operating officer (COO) Craig Salvalaggio to the position of company president.
Electric drives in conveyor systems, lifting equipment, and forklifts are the motors that drive modern, efficient, and reliable intralogistics. ABM Drives Inc. develops and manufactures platform-based systems for stationary and mobile applications. ABM works closely with customers to build drive solutions, including motors, gearboxes, brakes, and frequency inverters tailored for specific applications.
The leading automation showcase in North America, Automate, is back in Detroit May 22-25, 2023, with the latest in cutting-edge robotics, vision, artificial intelligence, motion control and more. Produced by the Association for Advancing Automation (A3), Automate delivers the latest innovations in manufacturing automation technology from more than 600 leading exhibitors. Each day also offers inspirational keynote sessions and theater presentations to help attendees find the best solutions for their unique business needs.
Stock Drive Products/Sterling Instrument (SDP/SI) expands their selection of flexible couplings to include the single disk type couplings (short type), series S50XHSM… and the double disk type couplings (standard length type), series S50XHWM…. The disk type flexible couplings are an economical option while providing greater torque capability and improved performance in a reduced size.
The 2023 AT&T Cybersecurity Edge Ecosystem Insights Report presents a perspective that recognizes the essential characteristics and key differences among edge architectures and provides a realistic picture of the state of edge.
Forest City Gear has expanded its capacity for the grinding of high-precision internal and external gears with the addition of two Kellenberger K100 cylindrical grinders.
Punch Powertrain and Stellantis commence large-scale serial production of the unique and highly anticipated eDCT/DT2 transmission. The manufacturing starts within the scope of the companies' 2 joint ventures: ‘e-Transmissions’ and ‘e-Transmissions Assembly’.
Gates announces the launch of the mobile version of the award-winning Gates Design Power, putting advanced digital design tools to support the engineering of belt drive systems on customers’ mobile devices.
The latest designed ALS Couplings from Miki Pulley are available in three different types for more precisely handling parallel, angular or axial misalignment applications.
During Automate 2023 (Detroit), Kuka Robotics will feature a well-rounded range of solutions for meeting the automation mobility, education, safety and other needs of today’s manufacturers in booth 2623. Within two cells for the Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) industry sector and in a mobile machine tool-tending cell, Kuka will showcase its KMR iiwa, KMP 600-S diffDrive and KMR Cybertech mobile robots. Kuka’s new LBR iisy cobot will be on display with an education package along with Kuka’s new Ready2_educate and Ready2_educate_arc training carts. Also on display will be Airskin technology for safe, fenceless operation of industrial robots when humans are present as well as a large composite 3D printing cell.
Mitsubishi Electric Automation, Inc. announces the upgrade option of Vibration Cutting Control (VCC) via hardware to its M8 Series CNC as a solution to eliminate chip strands while machining difficult to cut material, such as stainless steel, at faster cutting speeds.
Deutsche Messe is reporting 4,000 exhibitors in 2023 and 130,000+ attendees searching for the latest developments in electrification, sustainability, and digital solutions. While one might wonder if the show will ever reach pre-pandemic levels again, it was obvious there’s still a very focused global manufacturing network looking to solve climate, energy, and automation challenges in the coming years.
FDA/USDA certified, two, three and four post, stand-off bearing flange blocks are setting a new standard for performance and hygienics. These new stand-off bearing flange blocks now available from LM76 reduce the surface area where mold and bacteria can thrive, even from the most through sanitizing operations. Long life hybrid stainless steel Si3N4 Silicon Nitride ceramic ball bearings in stainless steel bearing blocks are coated with a smooth non-water absorbing polyamide coating certified by EHEDG, USDA, and 3-A. These FDA/washdown flange bearings employ hybrid stainless steel/ceramic ball bearings that are sealed from contaminates and bacteria via a patented shaft seal system. The seals resist water, cleaning solutions - keeping lubrication from being corrupted and evacuated.
Bearing manufacturer NKE Austria GmbH is entering into a strategic partnership with Kugler Bimetal SA, a Swiss producer of bimetallic components and tribological surface finishes. The cooperation was announced at the Hannover Messe in April 2023.
With the unique combination of a sensor system and kinematics working independently in six degrees of freedom, the Smart Flex Effector compensation module gives industrial robots a sense of touch similar to that of a human hand. It thus allows the automation of processes that were previously difficult to manage or could only be performed manually. The innovation was honored at Hannover Messe with the Hermes Award 2023, the most prestigious international industry prize. The Smart Flex Effector increases the range of applications for robots because it sensitively compensates for tolerances in real time. Users can thus automate joining process, complicated assembly movements or difficult handling tasks. The compensation module can also be retrofitted in existing robotic applications.
This year, the Hermes Startup Award goes to the Netherlands. The young company MantiSpectra from Eindhoven was awarded the coveted Startup Award for its ChipSense product by the jury.
Designers of robotics and automation solutions are often faced with a choice: cycloid or planetary gears? In the last few decades, the answer has often been cycloidal drives. But the planetary gears have caught up and are now superior in many ways. The Hamelin company Schaeffler Ultra Precision Drives (previously Melior Motion) has revolutionized the planetary gear and with its PSC series, produces extremely precise, quiet and durable drive units.
SBTi (Science Based Targets initiative) has approved Höganäs AB’s near and long-term science-based emissions reduction targets.
Liebherr expands the existing product portfolio of open circuit pumps by the nominal size of 550 and as a double pump by the nominal size of 1,100 cc (1,100 cm3). Moreover, the new nominal size of 100 adds to the LH30VO family.
Continental recently added the patented Direct X conveyor belt to its line of industrial belting products with the 2022 acquisition of WCCO Belting.
Leveraging Dana’s field-proven powershift technology, the eSP502 e-Transmission offers a dual-motor, two-speed design that is built on a flexible platform to enable optimized performance at maximum efficiency in a compact package. The modular approach to the transmission design allows for a single motor solution, as well as an optional power take-off, depending on the specific vehicle requirements. It recently made its North American debut at IFPE 2023.
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.
Hägglunds hydraulic drive systems are a familiar presence in the mining and mineral processing industries, as well as in related materials handling applications. Compact, gearless and utterly reliable, they offer significant advantages over their electromechanical counterparts. Those advantages continue to grow stronger, and the range of possibilities they create is set to expand.
Three members of Forest City Gear’s board of directors—President Kika Young, Mindy Young, and Appy Mikel—attended the 2023 AGMA/ABMA annual meeting in March. The meeting, hosted by the American Gear Manufacturers Association and the American Bearing Manufacturing Association, was held at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa in Lake Buena Vista, Florida.
Since OpenAI’s public introduction of ChatbotGPT, the Internet has been abuzz with talk about artificial intelligence and the implications of machines that can think and write and carry on conversations at least as well as some humans.
More than a billion people around the world unite to ring in the New Year, their eyes set upon the glittering New Year’s Ball in Manhattan. Thousands are gathered at Times Square — the famed “Bow Tie” of Midtown — braving the December cold and peering through glasses with numerically shaped frames. Millions more tune in from their various screens at home.
With so much riding on its descent, the Ball, along with the mechanical and electrical systems responsible for its operation, must operate like clockwork.
Precision flexible shaft couplings come in two basic forms, both of which are designed to operate without backlash or excessive inertia while compensating for inevitable misalignment offsets between motor/gearbox and load. Torsionally stiff couplings are made with metallic flexible elements and with the intent to eliminate as much twisting deflection as possible so that the rotation of both shafts is kept as well synchronized as can be.
The earliest example of a gear train dates to at least 2,000 B.C. when Chinese engineers built a chariot that used a complex planetary mechanism made of wooden gears to let a dragon head continuously point south when driven around (Ref. 1). In Greece, a surprisingly advanced Antikythera gearbox mechanism, incorporating at least 37 precisely crafted bronze gears, was built years later, between 205–60 B.C. (Ref. 2).
Motion Industries, Inc. is pleased to announce the newest Motion Ai facility, located at 71 Cherry Hill Drive, Beverly, Mass., 01915. The new facility officially opened on December 1, 2022.
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.
Difficult general conditions, rapidly rising food and fuel prices, as well as the ongoing coronavirus pandemic and related regional lockdowns weighed on economic development and slowed economic growth in the past business year. Nevertheless, Liebherr’s total revenue increased significantly compared to the previous year. The group achieved increased revenue in 10 of its 13 product segments, some of them significant. It thus surpassed its previous record from 2021 by €950 million.
New, metric and imperial dimensioned electric cylinders or linear voice coil servo actuators have been released by Moticont.
Three young and highly motivated women have made it to the finals. On Friday, April 21, 2023, one of them will be honored with the Young Engineering Award 2023 during the WomenPower Career Congress. The initiative is intended to boost motivation for women to take up a career in the STEM sector.
PTE will feature a variety of new component technologies online for bearings, motors, couplings, brakes, gear drives, and motion control systems leading up to Hannover Messe 2023 in Germany. Here is a preview of some bearings suppliers to check out if you're planning on attending the event online or in-person in April.
Siemens Digital Industries Software and Daimler Truck AG recently announced a new collaboration to implement a state-of-the-art digital engineering platform built using the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio of software and services. The new platform will enable Daimler Truck to explore a future of commercial vehicle innovation and the efficient product development and lifecycle management of trucks and buses and will be rolled out globally across Daimler Trucks’ engineering hubs, brands and business segments.
Simplicity linear plain bearings exhibit real benefits, when compared to other styles of linear bearings; such as the self-lubricating quality of the bearing’s Frelon liner, as well as the wiping action on the shaft which enables smooth linear motion.
Bonfiglioli S.p.A, global leader in the market of drives for industrial automation, wind generators and mobile machinery in the construction, earthmoving and intralogistics sectors, following the communication released on February 7, 2023, is proud to announce that it completed the 100% acquisition of the share capital of Selcom Group.
The American Gear Manufacturers Association (AGMA) has changed its board of directors. These changes took place at the 2023 AGMA Annual Meeting in Lake Buena Vista, Fla.
Two Forest City Gear employees, CNC Supervisor Mike Miller and CNC Lead/Programmer Josh Gates, recently attended a four-day training retreat in Pfronten, Germany hosted by DMG MORI. The event featured various seminars and opportunities for guests to experience firsthand DMG’s newest equipment and technologies, as well as networking and a taste of German culture.
The HTB electric brake from Ringfeder features a multiple floating disc design that disengages when power is applied to the brake coil and engages when that power is removed. It is a cost-effective solution when you need extremely high torque in a very compact package.
At this year’s Hannover Messe, NKE Austria GmbH will present bearings for wind turbine gearboxes and generators. The Austrian bearing manufacturer has more than 20 years of experience in the wind energy sector. NKE bearings have been installed in more than 4,000 wind turbines across Europe, the USA and China, equivalent to more than 10,000 MW of installed power.
Priorities in the construction, off-highway and agriculture sectors seem to focus on longevity, energy efficiency and maximizing speed and torque. Every press conference and booth visit so far at IFPE and ConExpo support this claim. Components need to meet strict environmental guidelines while maximizing power. Success in these markets depends on condition monitoring technologies, quick-change components and the ability to meet power density requirements.
What started as a small workshop in Antwerp in 1923 has developed into a world-leading industrial gear unit manufacturer. For 100 years, Hansen Industrial Transmissions NV (HIT) has operated at the forefront of power transmission technology and shaped the industry with its industrial gearbox solutions. Since 2011, the company, headquartered at a state-of-the-art facility in Edegem with 260 employees, has been part of Sumitomo Drive Technologies. HIT supplies industrial gearboxes to a wide range of industries such as extraction material handling, energy, environment, and specialist applications in key industries.
Siemens Mobility will expand its manufacturing footprint by building a $220 million advanced manufacturing and rail services facility in Lexington, NC. The facility will create more than 500 new jobs and be one of the city’s largest employers. With the increased production capacity, Siemens Mobility will fulfill the growing demand for passenger rail in America by producing some of the most innovative and sustainable passenger trains in the North American market.
Keeping ahead of the competition requires a dedicated team of experts and investment in both manufacturing facilities as well as research and development (R&D). In Wexford, this formula has enabled the manufacturing site to remain at the forefront of pump technology as well supporting industry with products for aeration and agitation. After 50 years, Sulzer’s plant continues to deliver some of the most efficient and reliable products available to customers around the world.
This year, the opening speech at the WomenPower Career Congress will be delivered by Dr. Ariane Reinhart, a member of the executive board at Continental AG – a company at which 25 percent of all management positions are slated to be filled by women by the year 2025. On this five-member executive board, two out of five positions are already held by women – a top figure among companies listed on the German DAX stock exchange.
Timken is helping fund the futures of 20 students in pursuit of careers ranging from economics and agriculture to medicine and education. In an awards ceremony last week, the company presented college scholarships to the children of Timken associates in the United States, China, India, Poland and Romania. Since the Timken Global Scholars Program's inception in 1958, The Timken Company Charitable and Educational Fund has awarded more than $26 million in scholarships to 815 students.
Forest City Gear, an industry-leading manufacturer of fine and medium pitch custom gears, is proud to announce the promotion of Zac Denny to Setup Technician. In this role, he will oversee setup and operation of the MZ130 and Koepfer 153 machines.
Croix Gear & Machining, recognized as a leader in the custom manufacturing of loose gears, announced the hiring of Michael J. Lindsay as President. Mr. Lindsay will assume responsibility for all manufacturing and business operations. Mr. Lindsay brings a proven track record for continual improvement in supply chain, scheduling, production, and quality to Croix Gear.
KISSsoft offers the calculation of geometry and contact stresses of Hirth couplings. Hirth couplings allow for the transmission of high torque between shafts. In KISSsoft, users can select a standard Hirth coupling offered by Voith GmbH & Co. KGaA or enter their own custom geometry for the calculation.
Southern Gear has added two Hwacheon VT-1150+ Vertical Turning Centers to its gear production operations, both capable of high-speed, complete machining of ring gears and other cylindrical parts with diameters of 1,320 mm and lengths up to 950 mm.
Responding to the agriculture industry’s growing need to increase farm productivity and harvest yields, global industrial and automotive supplier Schaeffler is launching its all-new Field Pro tillage hub in North America. Precision-engineered for maximum output and reliability, Schaeffler Field Pro is the direct-fit, easy-to-install solution that farmers need to help ensure a successful harvest.
United Grinding North America is proud to announce its sponsorship of the Reshoring Initiative, a nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing good, well-paying manufacturing jobs back to the United States. They accomplish this by helping companies more accurately assess their total cost of manufacturing overseas and working to shift the collective thinking of management from "offshoring is cheaper" to "local reduces cost."
The Timken Company continues to be a key contributor to the latest generation of United States Navy ships. General Dynamics Bath Iron Works (BIW) recently awarded Timken a long-term contract to deliver Philadelphia Gear main reduction gears (MRGs) for all future Flight III ships of the Arleigh Burke (DDG-51) class. The contract, if executed fully, will result in revenue of more than $500 million for Timken over approximately five to eight years. Production is expected to begin in 2024.
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.
AD is pleased to announce that Ben Brumfield will be joining the company as president, AD Member Supply, effective March 6, 2023.
PTE will feature a variety of new component technologies online for bearings, motors, couplings, brakes, gear drives, and motion control systems leading up to Hannover Messe 2023 in Germany. First up is a preview of some motor suppliers to check out if you're planning on attending the event online or in-person in April.
Solve Industrial Motion Group (Solve), a manufacturer and seller of bearings and power-transmission component parts, announced the acquisition of SPB-USA, LLC., a factory-direct sales and marketing company of Sapporo Precision, Inc., the manufacturer of EZO Precision Ball Bearings.
Forest City Gear recently completed and passed its annual AS9100/ISO 9001:2015 quality system audit. The third-party audit company, Quality Systems Registrar (QSR), evaluated Forest City Gear’s quality management systems to ensure compliance with AS and ISO standards.
Tompkins Robotics announced its 2022 annual revenue increased by 93 percent from the prior year. The company launched key technological advancements, including the tSort3D, the xChange system, and their new tSort Induction Lift, as well as subscription financing models. The company also experienced 23 percent employee growth for the same period.
The products and solutions Hägglunds will showcase at MINEXCHANGE leverage the unique characteristics of hydraulic direct drive technology — delivering power directly to the drive shaft with full torque from zero speed and protection from shock loads — to maximize the efficiency and uptime of conveyors, feeders, crushers, drums, bucket wheel reclaimers, kilns and more.
Velo3D, Inc. has announced Visser Precision, a contract manufacturer serving major industries from the racetrack to outer space, has purchased and received two Sapphire printers to expand its 3D-printing capabilities for its aerospace customers. One of the printers delivered is the first Sapphire printer calibrated for Haynes 214 (UNS N07214), a nickel-based superalloy that is now available as a powder option for all Velo3D customers. The other Sapphire printer is calibrated for Inconel 718, which is commonly used in many aerospace and industrial applications for its high strength and corrosion resistance.
Southern Gear, a veteran-owned small business specializing in the manufacture of precision gears, is pleased to announce its certification as a Historically Underutilized Business Zone (HUBZone) business by the United States Small Business Administration (SBA).
The Metal Powder Industries Federation (MPIF) has announced the release of the 2023 PM Industry Roadmap. The update reviews current and future demands of key markets and identifies the technical barriers, challenges, opportunities, and priorities that will drive the powder metallurgy (PM) industry's continued growth.
Freudenberg Sealing Technologies has developed its own “Green Index” to ascertain the greenhouse gas balance of materials.
Bonfiglioli has agreed to acquire Selcom Group from funds controlled by Avenue Capital Group and Europa Investimenti. Selcom Group specializes in the design, production and sale of electronic boards, electronic products, as well as software and solutions for customers in the industrial, biomedical, automotive, intra-logistics and home-appliance automation sectors.
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.
In this classic science fiction tale, the protagonist has his futuristic electricity-powered submarine almost destroyed by a giant squid. What if Capt. Nemo created a mechanical “octopus” Kraken that he could pilot to attack and defeat his actual, biological nemesis?
Hexagon’s Manufacturing Intelligence division recently introduced Elements, new simulation software that helps engineering teams understand the behavior of systems that are becoming increasingly complex in modern products. Using the software, teams can evaluate the performance and feasibility of new design concepts quickly to inform more efficient product development and reduce risk and cost.
Magnetic Sensor Systems (MSS) has released their E-05-125 Series of Tubular Low-Profile Electromagnets. This compact series of electromagnets measuring just 1.25 in. in diameter x 0.50 in. features 18 different windings to select from based on the duty cycle and holding force requirements of the application.
Hannover Messe 2023 presents the ideal networking hub. This is where AI developers, software engineers get together with users to jointly develop industrial-grade AI products or processes. Whereas in the past, the focus was on use cases in which errors or anomalies were detected or prognostications were made, industry in 2023 is focusing on the optimization of processes and the use of AI methods for simulation, testing and product development.
PT products such as gears, motors, pumps, fans and bearings will—without a doubt—continue to run through rigorous and harsh environments for the foreseeable future, but software and hardware improvements aim to disrupt unplanned downtime and machine maintenance through a series of new condition monitoring assets.
Vesconite Bearings, through its supply of marine rudder bearings to the MN Colibri charter vessel in June, is proud to be associated with an exciting communication satellite launch that took place in September 2022. The MN Colibri has historically transported launcher components, including communications satellites, for various heavy-lift space launch vehicles, and outfitted with the Vesconite rudder bearings allowed it to transport the Eutelsat Konnect VHTS satellite, which is regarded as an important addition to global telecommunications infrastructure.
Danfoss (Booth #S80515) will demonstrate how the company is “Powering the future of machine performance,” during IFPE 2023.
The Timken Company has acquired the assets of American Roller Bearing Company (ARB), a North Carolina-based manufacturer of industrial bearings. ARB's offerings join Timken's industry-leading portfolio of engineered bearing solutions. ARB, which boasts a large U.S. installed base and strong aftermarket business, generated sales of more than $30 million in 2022.
Commercial garage doors range in many sizes and configurations requiring a “just right” model and size brake for reliable automatic operation. Depending on the design and size of the overhead door and placement of the brake, a variety of brake models and sizes offer solutions from the Miki Pulley brake lineup.
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.
Contact analysis can be used to calculate the transmission error and determine the profile modifications of a gear stage. In addition, a wide range of important gear-specific parameters can be calculated, such as tooth root stress, distribution of Hertzian pressure, oil film thickness, and many more.
High energy costs, broken supply chains and rising raw material prices continue to pose new challenges to business. To remain competitive, companies need to take steps to increase their efficiency and contain energy costs, which in turn will lead to a reduction in their carbon footprint. High-tech solutions in this area will be presented at Hannover Messe.
Ruland recently expanded their range of quick clamping shaft collars with clamping lever to include bore sizes up to 3 inches or 80 mm. These shaft collars allow the user to install, remove, or reposition the collar without the use of tools. The user simply turns the lever to loosen and tighten the collar on the shaft.
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With the new SKF Bearing App for the popular Ansys Mechanical Finite Element Analysis (FEA) software, engineers no longer need to rely on approximations or complex, unreliable models in their simulations.
Jergens announces the appointment of Bryon Shafer as vice president of the ASG division. The move comes amidst other corporate changes taking place that further increase Jergens’ focus on manufacturing in the United States. With the new position, Shafer has global responsibility and oversees more than 50 employees that provide torque control, fastening, and precision assembly tools to nearly 30 countries around the world.
Delivering on its mission to break down automation barriers and bring the benefits of collaborative automation to businesses of all sizes, OnRobot has launched D:PLOY, its highly anticipated flagship platform, for worldwide availability. D:PLOY is the industry’s first automated platform for building, running, monitoring, and re-deploying collaborative applications.
Indonesia is this year’s Partner Country at Hannover Messe. Indonesian President Joko Widodo has confirmed his personal attendance at the world’s leading industrial trade fair and will speak at the opening ceremony in April. In addition, together with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, he will also take part in the traditional chancellor’s tour the next day – opening day Monday – at the fair. The last time these two heads of government met was at the G20 summit in Bali, Indonesia, in November 2022.
Racaw Ltd., a designer and manufacturer of precision positioning components and systems, required reliable shaft couplings for use on its lines of linear and rotary positioning stages. The stages allow precise linear and rotary positioning of objects via a stepping or servo motor with rotary encoder control. Huco Oldham couplings were selected because they met Racaw’s torque capacity range, zero backlash, auditable noise and vibration levels, lengthy predicted service life and availability requirements.
The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) has validated the Schaeffler Group’s targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions as being in conformity with SBTi criteria and recommendations and hence in line with what the latest climate science considers necessary in order to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement. The global automotive and industrial supplier is committed to cutting its absolute Scope 1 and Scope 2 greenhouse gas emissions by 90 percent by 2030, with 2019 as its base year. The company has also set itself the target of reducing its absolute Scope 3 greenhouse gas emissions from purchased goods and services, fuel- and energy-related activities, and upstream transportation and distribution by 25 percent over the same period.
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.)
In January 2022, it was announced that DMG MORI Manufacturing USA, Inc. (DMM) would be investing an estimated $3.4 million towards the installation of a 2,000 kilowatt (kW) solar panel system on the roof of its manufacturing site in Davis, California.
Bearing Specialists Association (BSA) and the Power Transmission Distributors Association (PTDA) announce the launch of the PIE Technology Platform (PIE), a cloud-based platform giving manufacturers and distributors of industrial products access to the most comprehensive catalog for the exchange of rich content product information.
Metal Exchange Corporation is pleased to announce that Mark Butterfield has been promoted to president of manufacturing. In his new role, Butterfield will be responsible for the overall strategic, financial, commercial, organizational, and operational aspects of all manufacturing across the Pennex and Electro Cycle, Inc. brands.
The Metal Powder Industries Federation's (MPIF) Awards Committee has announced the recipients of the 2023 MPIF Distinguished Service to Powder Metallurgy (PM) Award that recognizes individuals who have actively served the North American PM industry for at least 25 years and, in the minds of their peers, deserve special recognition.
For nearly 50 years, AJD Forest Products has been producing top quality industrial lumber for the Lake States region. Located in Grayling, Mich., the company has earned a reputation for supplying high-grade red oak, hard & soft maple, aspen, ash, and basswood. The mill processes 1,700-2,000 logs, or 70,000-90,000 board feet of lumber a day, but constant maintenance and adjustment on their stacker and chain conveyor brakes were forcing unplanned downtime.
Velo3D, Inc. has appointed Dr. Robin Stamp as director of solutions engineering to help grow the adoption of Velo3D’s metal additive manufacturing technology with new customers and in new industries. In his role, Dr. Stamp will oversee the development of new standards with regulatory agencies, qualification of new metal alloys for use in the Sapphire family of printers, and the collaboration with partners and agencies.
The drive system manufacturer will be displaying their modular line of gear units, industrial gear units, electric motors, and electronic control products at the annual GEAPS Exchange February 25 – 28, 2023 in Kansas City, Mo.
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.
The Faulhaber Drive Calculator is the perfect tool for developers to find a suitable drive system for a specific application in record time. It is easy to use and functional: the modern, clear user interface was designed with optimal usability in mind, and helpful tool tips provide valuable detailed information.
MagnaShear motor brakes, which provide a secure, no-maintenance, no-adjustment, holding brake solution for mining conveyor applications will be featured at MinEXCHANGE Booth #2720.
Gear Motions is proud to announce that Auto Gear Inc. has joined the Gear Motion’s family. Auto Gear located in Syracuse, New York, specializes in efficient and economical low-volume gearbox production, from design to delivery.
Heidenhain will be exhibiting at Photonics West, Booth #3053, on January 28-February 2 in San Francisco, Calif. Heidenhain will showcase the latest MULTI Degrees-of-Freedom (MULTI-DOF) motion control components, offering manufacturers a better way to implement metrology designs. Photonics West is the world’s premier lasers, biomedical optics and optoelectronics event.
Updated research from Interact Analysis shows the geared motors and industrial gears market experienced strong growth in 2021. The market expanded by 16 percent last year, with the sharp rise driven by price increases. On average, the selling price for geared motors and gearboxes increased by 7.8 percent in 2021, with further price rises forecast in 2022.
The 2022 AD eCommerce & Marketing Summit brought together digital and marketing leaders from AD owner/members, supplier partners and eCommerce partners from December 5-7. Over 470 attendees gathered in San Diego for a week of panel discussions, roundtables, networking, and collaboration opportunities.
The Dudley, UK factory of The Timken Company supplies the engineered bearings it manufactures into a multitude of industries including mining, food and beverage, pulp and paper, cement, marine, and wastewater. Recently there has been a significant increase in demand for larger bearings up to 1,200 mm in diameter for use in the construction of wind turbines, which promises exponential growth in the coming years as countries across the globe work towards meeting their green energy targets.
Haydon Kerk Pittman, a business unit of AMETEK’s Advanced Motion Solutions division, is pleased to announce its new Haydon Kerk Express online linear actuator calculator.
As of January 2023, Arkos Field Services, acquired by Burckhardt Compression in 2019, is integrated with Burckhardt Compression (US) Inc. Customers benefit from combined knowledge, expertise and unrivalled solutions for reciprocating compressors and other equipment from one provider. The integration of the two brands streamlines business processes to provide easy access and a solutions-driven customer experience.
2022 has proven to be another record-breaking year for NORD DRIVESYSTEMS as they achieved over $1 billion dollars in sales for the first time in company history. NORD sees this as confirmation from their customers that they are a reliable, competent partner with a wide range of efficient, highly configurable drive solutions that are available for over 100 specialized industries worldwide.
Those who wish to make submissions for the 2023 AGMA Fall Technical Meeting (FTM) have until January 13, 2023. Late submissions will not be accepted.
eSOL has announced that it will release new versions of its CC-Link IE TSN SDK in next spring. The eSOL CC-Link IE TSN SDK supports the open industrial network, CC-Link IE TSN, defined by the CC-Link Partner Association.
The Production System P-50 is designed to be the fastest way to 3D print metal parts at-scale. Powered by Desktop Metal's Single Pass Jetting technology, the P-50 can achieve speeds up to 100 times those of legacy powder bed fusion additive manufacturing technologies and enable production quantities of up to millions of parts per year at costs competitive with conventional mass production techniques.
Opto Diode Corporation, an ITW company, introduces the AXUV100G, a 100 mm x 100 mm active area electron detection device specially designed for use in radiation detection applications.
NORD DRIVESYSTEMS will be showcasing their innovative meat and poultry drive solutions at the International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE) January 24th – 26th in Atlanta, GA. NORD’s food processing and packaging solutions focus on precise, dynamic control for conveyor systems, reliable performance, and compliance with strict hygiene standards for washdown environments.
Cortec Corporation recently announced its acquisition of Cortec Southeast Asia (CSEA) offices in Singapore. CSEA is now a wholly owned subsidiary of Cortec Corporation. This development promises to improve service and support to customers in Southeast Asia due to a direct connection with Cortec headquarters in Saint Paul, Minnesota.
The R-09-150 CCWM Series of Counterclockwise, Forward Shaft Extension Rotary Solenoids from Magnetic Sensor Systems (MSS), available in OEM quantities, features 18 different winding configurations allowing the user to match torque and duty cycle requirements to an application. These compact 38.1 mm (1.50 in.) diameter solenoids are just 22.098 (22.1) mm (0.87 in.) long and have two M4X0.7 threaded studs (8-32 studs optional) 7.366 (7.4) mm (0.29 in.) long on a 22.225 (22.2) mm (0.875 in.) bolt circle. The shaft has 40 degrees of counterclockwise rotation, extending (13.0) mm (0.51 in.). The shaft end is serrated for a better grip of the attached load.
Gasoline engines, pumps, generators and other machines operating in rugged environments require long-lasting components to ensure successful performance. Clutches designed with durable materials can prevent breakdowns, which would otherwise lead to expensive maintenance and downtime. One example of a ruggedized clutch — the Carlyle Johnson's EPC multiple disc electric pulley clutch — consists of a standard electromagnetic multiple disc design and utilizes oil shear to enhance service life.
Across three days, the relaunched Smart Production Solutions (SPS) 2022 event in Nuremberg, Germany, attracted a total of almost 44,000 visitors in November.
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.
The Ogura MCNB-HS Series power-off spring applied brakes have oversized bores to allow wires to pass through the shaft’s hollow bore. They accommodate encoders, cables, hoses, shafts, and tools. The ratio of the brake’s field core diameter to outer diameter is leading the industry.
Optimal Engineering Systems, Inc. (OES) has released four new high resolution, high repeatability XY Alignment Stages. The AU200-120x120 Alignment Stages feature 120 mm (4.724 in.) of travel in both the X and Y axes. These new low profile 87 mm (3.425 in.) high XY stages, have a 188 mm x 188 mm (7.401 in. x 7.401 in.) open aperture. Easy integration of tooling and fixtures is facilitated through a precision series of threaded mounting holes.
Corrosion under insulation (CUI) is a longtime plague of petrochemical, refinery, and marine environments. The problem is so bad that an estimated 40-60 percent of piping maintenance costs in the oil and gas industry stem from CUI-related expenses. Even worse, undetected CUI on pipes carrying hazardous liquids may lead to leaks and potential explosions. To tackle this dangerous and costly problem, Cortec Corporation has developed CorroLogic CUI Inhibitor Injection, a new Vapor phase Corrosion Inhibitor technology that simplifies protection for insulated pipes reaching a high range of temperatures.
Kalyani Mobility Drivelines (KMD) recently announced the introduction of a lineup of high-performance constant velocity (CV) driveshafts for electric vehicles (EVs) and other specialty vehicles.
SKF continues to expand its RecondOil offer through a partnership agreement with Castrol, one of the world’s leading lubricant brands. The partnership will enable Castrol industrial customers to use integrated RecondOil Double Separation Technology (DST) systems.
Clark Seals, a sealing technology company, recently announced that Jeff Thompson has joined the company as territory sales manager. In his new position, Thompson will manage sales operations in Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama.
On Wednesday, November 16 and Thursday, November 17, the Reggio Emilia’s plant of Kohler Engines sponsored and hosted the event "Alternative Fuels. A sustainable path to engines decarbonization", a workshop organized by SAE-NA, STEMS-CNR and Kohler.
As of November 1, Jorgensen Conveyor and Filtration Solutions has entered into a partnership with Will-Fill, a manufacturer of fully automatic coolant monitoring and managing systems. The strategic partnership allows Jorgensen to offer customers complete and worry-free coolant management systems, such as the company’s recently launched PermaClean, that provide both filtering and measuring capabilities for an all-in-one solution.
Patience was the theme in Dearborn, Mich., in late October when Gerdau hosted speakers from the Center for Automotive Research (CAR), Wards Intelligence, Heavy Duty Manufacturers Association, Munro & Associates, American Axle, AGMA, and the company’s own Denise Correa De Oliveira for a comprehensive discussion on the present and future challenges facing the electric vehicle market.
SKF entered a unique collaborative partnership with Heat and Control, Inc., an equipment solution manufacturer, to assist in engineering a new horizontal motion conveying technology, FastBack 4.0.
Eaton recently display technologies to support the zero emissions journey in the commercial vehicle market at the IAA Transportation show in Hannover, Germany.
Solve Industrial Motion Group (Solve), a leading manufacturer of bearings and power transmission products, has officially signed a lease for a 282,134-square-foot, state-of-the-art distribution center in Charlotte.
The 2022 Power Transmission Engineering Buyers Guide was compiled to provide you with a handy resource containing the contact information for significant suppliers of power transmission components.
When your equipment calls for a right angle gearbox, proper sizing makes a difference. A wide range of application factors must be considered, or you will face problems down the road. Possible problems can include increased maintenance, worn teeth and reduced mean time between failure (MTBF). Additionally, an oversized gearbox will cost more money than necessary. This article will provide an overview of how to apply application information to accurately size an Andantex Anglgear right angle gearbox for your installation.
How can the protective layer be applied to the brake disk more quickly and more effectively? And how can it be made to stay on for longer? “The solution is intelligent coatings, as can be applied to brake disks using our AM coating system” says Dr. Géza Koscsák - the head of additive mat the Chiron Group. He has played a prominent role in developing the new system and reaching the decision to opt for the high-speed deposition welding process in his previous job as head of advanced development.
The American Gear Manufacturers Association (AGMA) is partnering with Virgo Communications & Exhibitions to publish Gear Technology India, the Indian branch of the Gear Technology magazine.
One of the world’s top fertilizer producers operates a big fertilizer complex in South America. A few years ago, the company started an expansion project that includes three additional phosphoric acid concentration lines. Sulzer was selected to supply the critical evaporator circulation pumps.
EUROTRANS recently announced the reelection of Haffar Salim as president of their organization during the International Drive Conference that took place online November 17, 2022.
Kollmorgen is all about innovation, constantly investing in collaborations and research projects to exchange knowledge and expertise with partners and universities across the world. Not only does it generate creativity amongst employees, but it also helps customers, partners, and students worldwide to realize their ideas. Someone who is much involved in Kollmorgen’s innovation projects and initiatives is Simon Bokesand, senior innovation engineer.
With a definitive business plan in place for the future, Jorgensen Conveyor and Filtration Solutions has promoted Karl Kleppek to the position of company president and COO. Effective immediately, Kleppek, director of sales and marketing, takes over for former president Charles (Chuck) D’Amico. D’Amico maintains an active role in the company as CEO and chairman of the board and will focus on strategy development and direct customer relationships.
Elementum 3D, developer and supplier of groundbreaking metal additive manufacturing (AM) materials, is pleased to announce it has hired Thom Stalcup as chief operating officer (COO). Mr. Stalcup was recently VP of global operations and module engineering at Solexel, a photovoltaic company.
The European Union aims to expand the capacity for wind power generated at sea to at least 60 gigawatts by 2030. With its sealing solutions for the foundation structures, Freudenberg Sealing Technologies helps ensure that new wind turbines reach a service life of at least 30 years or more despite the rough conditions at sea.
The new AT20-600 series of Motorized Vertical Lift Stages from Optimal Engineering Systems, Inc. (OES) features a vertical lift of 600 mm. The AT20-600-01 (pictured) is driven by a Two-Phase Stepper Motor features a repeatability of 5 microns, positional accuracy of 20 microns and has a knob on the motor for manual adjustment.
Adjusting a stop and hold position in an automated system is made easy using Miki Pulley BXW brakes with the manual release lever feature. It allows the operator to depress the lever and make a manual adjustment when the system is powered off. The lever also allows easy system indexing in the event of a power failure.
The PTDA Foundation, whose work is funded solely by donations, was founded in 1982. Its core purpose is to champion education, outreach and research initiatives relevant to the PT/MC industry that enhance the knowledge and/or professionalism and productivity of industry stakeholders.
The team at the David Brown Santasalo (DBS) purpose-built state-of-the-art facility in Jyvaskyla, Finland were delighted to have a further opportunity to work with Europe’s largest iron ore producer, manufacturing another impressive segmented ADI (Austempered Ductile Iron) girth gear.
GWJ Technology GmbH presents the new version of its system calculation software SystemManager as an extension of its well-known solutions eAssistant as a web solution and TBK as a classic desktop application.
The automotive and industrial supplier Schaeffler has signed a contract with the CERATIZIT Group for the acquisition of CERASPIN. Based in Livange, Luxembourg, CERASPIN has over 25 years’ experience in the development and production of premium ceramic products, the majority of which are processed into rolling elements for various bearing applications.
With the OPEXplus digital torque wrench, Bosch Rexroth has added an economical new product to its existing range of tightening solutions. The OPEXplus digital torque wrench can measure both the torque and the angle of rotation. It covers a range of torques from 3 to 800 Nm, and it transfers the tightening results to any IT system without the need for additional control. The OPEXplus digital torque wrench sets a new standard for accuracy and allows fatigue-free work thanks to its ergonomic design.
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.
Emerson Bearing recently delivered this great back to basics blog on rod ends. Emerson Bearing and Action Bearing serve the bearing needs of international and domestic customers. The team at Emerson Bearing caters to global niche markets, while the team at Action Bearing, specializes in solutions for the OEM and MRO markets in New England.
As shippers and logistics handlers continue to struggle with supply chain delays, Mitsubishi Gas Chemical America recently introduced the RP System to the North American market to protect critical components from moisture and oxygen damage that can occur during shipping and long-term storage. Manufactured in Japan, this unique packaging solution is designed to safeguard electronics, automotive parts, and industrial components from rust and oxidation.
Manufacturer-independent engineering tools, such as KISSsoft, basically offer users the opportunity to offer more flexibility in selecting suppliers and procuring components. On the other hand, in some cases there is no access to exclusive product data from the manufacturer in order to be able to perform the calculation with the greatest possible accuracy and reliability.
Force Control Industries’ offers a full lineup of motor brakes, clutches, and clutch-brakes in washdown configurations for food, chemical, and pharmaceutical processing applications. MagnaShear and Posistop motor brakes and Posidyne clutches and clutch-brakes are totally enclosed with heavy duty, cast housing which offers additional protection against moisture, water, saltwater, caustic spray, and chemicals.
The LEGO Group marked International Day of the Girl on October 11th with a new campaign to encourage girls to stay curious about STEAM subjects and careers. New and sobering statistics from the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media and the LEGO Group show girls are still discouraged from STEAM fields from a young age when play is often gender stereotyped.
Perkins Engines Company Limited recently announced its participation in two projects under the UK Government’s ‘Red Diesel Replacement’ competition.
Renishaw Auburn Hills takes place November 2-3, 2002, in Auburn Hills, Mich. The event features demonstrations and conversations on intelligent automation, form measurement, circular geometry, surface finish, EV batteries, additive manufacturing, gear manufacturing optimization and more.
Walk into any gear manufacturing facility and you'll find legacy equipment that has been running successfully for decades. While these machines offer insight from a historical perspective, it's the equipment moving gears through production cells hinting at the factory of the future and the role robotics and automation will play.
Employees from Forest City Gear recently attended the 2022 International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) at Chicago’s McCormick Place Convention Center. This year’s show attracted more than 86,000 registrants looking to experience the latest and greatest in manufacturing technology.
Forest City Gear recently announced the promotion of Amy Sovina to quality assurance manager. Sovina has worked at Forest City Gear since 1994, starting as a CNC machine operator, then moving on to gear hobbing technician, gear inspector, and most recently customer quality engineer.
With the help of KISSsoft, the user can now estimate the influence of manufacturing deviation on the resulting transmission error and excitation force.
Atlanta Gear Works has announced a new working agreement with Jim McClain, general manager of McClain Industrial Technologies, Inc., DBA MiTek, a manufacturers’ rep that will help the gearbox repair and manufacturing firm spread its 34-year reputation in pulp and paper to the steel and aluminum industries.
The Timken Company has reached an agreement to acquire GGB Bearing Technology (GGB), a division of Enpro, Industries (including exclusive negotiations with respect to the French operations of GGB). Founded in 1899, GGB serves a variety of diverse customers, markets, geographies and applications with a product portfolio that complements existing Timken industry-leading engineered bearing solutions. GGB revenue is expected to be around $200 million in fiscal year 2022.
KHK USA Inc. announces its extensive selection of miter gears. These gears are available in high precision grades to perform at demanding torques and speeds, and they are also available in commercial grades for economical applications.
Sulzer has partnered with CELLiCON to scale up its manufacturing technology for nano structured cellulose – a highly sustainable, plant-based alternative to conventional polymers. The technology slashes the traditionally high costs and footprint associated with nanocellulose, allowing it to be scaled and used as a building block for a wide variety of everyday products, from textiles to glues.
SKF announces the appointment of Annika Ölme as CTO and senior vice president, technology development.
Applied Cobotics by PBC Linear recognizes the need for consistent and engaging training programs to help scale up the existing workforce and invite a new generation into the manufacturing industry.
The AGMA National Training Center (NTC) Open House and Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony is next week Wednesday, August 24th, at Richard J. Daley College in Chicago.
The Timken Company recently announced new appointments for company executives Christopher Coughlin, Andreas Roellgen, and Natasha Pollock.
AD is pleased to announce it has hired Kristen Abbas as vice president, AD Network Community, effective August 1, 2022. As VP, AD Network Community, Abbas will be responsible for managing, implementing, innovating, and expanding AD’s meeting and network ecosystem including additional opportunities for peer-to-peer engagement opportunities for AD members. Abbas will report to Marty McLaughlin, chief marketing officer.
Mitsubishi Electric Automation, Inc. has introduced Economy Solutions, packaged servo and motion bundles that allow for high precision motion control in a way that is quick and affordable to integrate.
To celebrate the opening of the Tonawanda facility, Milton CAT recently hosted an open house on June 17-18. Event activities included meeting the team, tours, machine and technology demonstrations, capability information stations, red tag specials, a Global Operator Challenge, and refreshments.
Smalley is proud to celebrate that they have locally supported the European market for 20 years. In 2002, Smalley opened their first global branch office in France to provide quick and personalized service to European customers.
Applications for gearmotors are extremely varied as are the design and optimization tools available today. From online software to performance standards, here's the latest news on gearmotor technology.
Velo3D, Inc. has announced the opening of its European Technology Center in Augsburg, Germany to manage the company’s operations in Europe, host customers for trainings, and conduct meetings with customers and partners.
Telit, a global enabler of the Internet of Things (IoT), recently announced a new global corporate headquarters in Southern California. Following the CEO’s move to the U.S., the new headquarters is in the City of Irvine—Orange County’s technology hub—and will support Telit’s strategy to grow its connected devices and solutions business worldwide. The Irvine office will also serve key projects and customers in the region, widening its U.S. presence that currently includes offices in Ill., FL., and N.C.
Milton CAT, the Northeast’s Caterpillar (CAT) equipment dealer, has opened its 13th location, a 40,000 sq. ft. purpose-built, Tonawanda, NY, facility. Every feature of the facility is in place to improve safety and efficiency so Milton CAT can support western New York equipment owners with machine sales, machine service, CAT parts, CAT work tools, hydraulic hose repair, and Trimble technology from SITECH Northeast.
Join AGMA on the RAPID show floor (Thursday May 19, 2022, in Detroit, MI) and talk with 12-15 exhibitors to learn about the many different types of printers and materials currently in use in metal 3D printing. Exhibitors will speak directly to the gear industry audience with targeted information.
Manufacturing is facing constant challenges stemming from labor shortages and disrupted supply chains to productivity declines and the high replacement and maintenance costs of legacy equipment. Trends today include equipment upgrades, e-commerce, a push for more robotics and automation and faster software and IIoT solutions.
A flagship coupling in the Huco range, the Oldham solves the problem of side forces due to misalignment. Misalignment couplings that bend or flex do cause some side loading on bearings and shafts as the coupling tries to spring back. Of course, over prolonged use this can result in rapid deterioration of bearings, extra load on the motor, and eventual coupling fatigue.
Forest City Gear is proud to announce the appointment of Kika Young as president of the company.
Bearings from SKF are playing a key role in a record-breaking engineering project – the world’s longest suspension bridge, which recently opened on March 18, 2022, in Turkey.
The fluid power industry has events on economics, future trends and new technologies in 2022.
Large gear manufacturing for mining applications is seeing an increase in activity in North America and Europe.
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:
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