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Motors

PRODUCT NEWS | 2025-03-27

Kollmorgen’s Encoder Offers Multi-Turn Absolute Feedback

Kollmorgen has introduced the new SFD-M (Smart Feedback Device, Multi-Turn). It allows machine builders to achieve high-resolution multi-turn feedback with absolute positioning information available at system startup.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2025-03-19

Igus Introduces Advanced 4-Axis Delta Robot for High-Speed Pick and Place Applications

Igus introduces the DR1000 four-axis delta robot that combines high speed and precision for demanding industrial applications.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2025-03-18

Nord Launches Surface Protection Solution

With NXD, Nord Drivesystems has launched the latest generation of its surface treatment. The system manufacturer equips its aluminum drive solutions with two variants of effective surface
protection. This makes them more resistant to extreme environmental conditions and ensures long-lasting performance even under demanding operating conditions.
NXD is the surface treatment from Nord for gear units, smooth motors and frequency inverters made from aluminum. 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2025-03-14

SEW-Eurodrive Introduces DR2C Motor

SEW-Eurodrive has launched the DR2C motor, an IE5 ultra-premium efficiency motor engineered for wide speed range operation and maximum long-term energy cost reductions. Designed for industries focused on minimizing total cost of ownership (TCO), the DR2C reduces energy consumption, minimizes heat losses, and enhances operational reliability—delivering a fast return on investment and sustained savings throughout its lifecycle.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2025-03-05

Timken EnviroSpexx Bearings Reduce Energy Consumption in Industrial Equipment

Companies focused on reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions within industrial operations can address both by selecting Timken EnviroSpexx roller bearings.

FEATURE ARTICLES | 2025-03-01

Aerospace Motor Market Trends

The trade show circuit has offered a wealth of e-mobility and motor technologies recently. From IMTS and Pack Expo to MINExpo and CES 2025, there are plenty of disruptors in the motor segment for power transmission components. One area—in particular—is the aerospace industry where vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) rotorcrafts continue to redefine aerial transport, variable frequency drives (VFDs) support aircraft performance, stepper motors provide passenger comfort and software enables engineers to optimize electric motor design.

PUBLISHER'S PAGE | 2025-03-01

A New Phase in Motor Technology

If you haven’t been paying attention lately, you might think that electric motors are an old, stodgy technology. After all, most of the real inventions occurred way back in the nineteenth century, with contributions from historical geniuses like Faraday and Tesla. We’ve been using DC motors and AC induction motors since the late 19th century. In many cases the basic design has remained unchanged.

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FEATURE ARTICLES | 2025-03-01

Benefits of Inching Drives

The mining industry relies heavily on efficient and reliable equipment to process large volumes of ore and mineral resources. One critical component in this ecosystem is the grinding mill, which plays a pivotal role in comminuting materials to prepare them for further processing. Grinding mills, particularly the large semi-autogenous (SAG) and ball mills, often operate under challenging conditions that demand precision, durability, and adaptability. A key technology enabling these mills to operate safely and efficiently is the hydraulic inching drive system.

FEATURE ARTICLES | 2025-03-01

Electric Motor Trends

It’s an exciting time in the electric motor industry. In the past two years more truly innovative new technology development has occurred than in the previous two decades. We can thank the e-mobility movement for that. It’s not just cars, trucks, bikes and buses, but just about everything else that moves on wheels as well as on water and in the sky.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2025-03-01

Redex Delivers Precise Positioning for Machine Tools

Redex is pleased to announce its patented Dualdrive and Twindrive preloading technologies now give CNC machine designers several ways to build a zero-backlash system. These approaches leverage Redex modular SRP, DRP, KRP and KRPX Series rack and pinion reducers whose output pinions are preloaded against the rack to eliminate backlash — a longstanding challenge with designs that require long axis travels and require positioning over the entire length of travel to less than 0.001 inch.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2025-03-01

WEG Expands Automation Factory in Mexico

WEG recently inaugurated the expansion of its automation products factory in Atotonilco de Tula, Mexico. With approximately 4,900 square meters of built area, the structure represents the expansion of the existing factory, which previously operated in a shared building and now has a dedicated space, ensuring greater efficiency and production capacity to meet the growing demand of the local market.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2025-02-27

Brushed vs. Brushless DC Motors

Which motor type is right for your application? This whitepaper from Dunkermotoren presents an in-depth comparison of brushed and brushless motor technologies, exploring their construction, operation, efficiency, performance characteristics, and real-world applications. By analyzing key parameters such as power efficiency, maintenance requirements, and cost-effectiveness, engineers and designers can make informed decisions when selecting the appropriate motor technology for their specific needs.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2025-02-12

Applied Motion Products Introduces AW Stepper Motors

Applied Motion Products introduces the AW Stepper Motors, featuring an IP65-rated design that ensures reliable operation in harsh environments. Engineered for a high level of protection, these motors effectively shield internal components from external contaminants such as dust, dirt, moisture, and grease. 

FEATURE ARTICLES | 2025-02-12

To Pick the Right Drive, Ask the Right Questions

Selecting a drive, whether for a new application or to replace an existing one, doesn’t have to be a traumatic experience. The key to success lies in asking a logical sequence of thoughtful questions.

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INDUSTRY NEWS | 2025-02-12

Bill Shepard and Sara Zimmerman to Lead PTDA in 2025

The 2025 Board of Directors and Manufacturer Council of the Power Transmission Distributors Association (PTDA) have officially begun their leadership terms.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2025-02-12

ABB Unveils IP69 Ultra-Premium Efficient Motor at IPPE 2025

ABB launched the Baldor-Reliance Food Safe SP5+ motor, the world’s first IP69 ultra-premium efficient motor, at the International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE) on January 28. This advanced technology sets a new benchmark for energy efficiency, hygiene and durability in food and beverage production environments.

FEATURE ARTICLES | 2025-02-12

Trelleborg Shares Insights on Sealing Needs for Electric Motors

As dry running systems, electric motors operate on reduced lubrication versus their gas-powered wet-running counterparts, requiring specific sealing solutions to manage friction and heat generation.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2025-02-10

Kollmorgen Expands Functional Safety Support with SafeMotion Monitor Upgrade

Kollmorgen has announced the latest update to its SafeMotion Monitor (SMM) firmware: SMM2.0. This upgrade allows OEMs to leverage SMM functional safety features with more encoder and motor types to support a wider range of applications such as material forming, multi-axis measurement equipment, food processing and food packaging.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2025-02-10

Tolomatic Introduces Online Drive Integration Tool

Tolomatic Inc. introduces its online Drive Integration Tool that streamlines the selection and commissioning process to seamlessly match a drive system to a servo linear actuator.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2025-02-10

Explore Your Motion Control Possibilities at SDP/SI

Mechatronic drive systems are intricate by nature. Tailoring solutions to meet the specific needs of our customers, SDP/SI motion control specialists integrate carefully selected components—such as DC motors, BLDC motors, stepper motors, gearheads, controllers, sensors, and housings—into a cohesive, high-performance drive system. Let’s collaborate!

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2025-01-22

Timken Appoints Ryan to Board of Directors

The Timken Company recently announced the appointment of Kimberly K. (Kim) Ryan to its Board of Directors. Her election increases The Timken Company Board to 13 members.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2025-01-21

ZF Secures Brake-by-Wire Technology for Light Vehicles

ZF has reached an agreement that includes planned volume production of brake-by-wire technology along with cutting-edge steering in a single class of vehicle.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2025-01-21

Kollmorgen Expands Functional Safety Support with SafeMotion Monitor Upgrade

Kollmorgen has updated its SafeMotion Monitor (SMM) firmware: SMM2.0. This upgrade allows OEMs to leverage SMM functional safety features with more encoder and motor types to support a wider range of applications such as material forming, multi-axis measurement equipment, food processing and food packaging.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2025-01-21

Nord Direct Drive Systems Outperform Belt Drives in Efficiency, Safety and Cost-Effectiveness

Two common types of drive solutions available on the market are direct drive solutions and belt drive solutions. With direct drives, the gearmotor is directly connected to the load being driven and does not require additional connection components. Belt drives, in comparison, are offset from the driven load and require belts and pulleys to connect the two. They also often include a motor mount, sheaves, machine guard, and a torque arm, making them a more complicated set up than the gearbox, NEMA adapter, and motor combination of direct drives. The compact direct drives also provide higher efficiency, reliability, and safety features compared to traditional drive packages.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2024-12-16

Nord’s Comprehensive Service and Support Increases System Longevity and Availability

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-12-13

Beckhoff Automation Add Stepper Motor Series to Compact Drive Technology Portfolio

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.

TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2024-12-11

Control System Techniques—Dampers (Part 2)

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. 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-12-09

Maxon Unveils High Efficiency Joint Drive

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-12-05

AutomationDirect Adds Additional Nidec ACCU-Torq Motors

AutomationDirect has added more ACCU-Torq motors from Nidec U.S. Motors. The ACCU-Torq motors are high-performance inverter duty motors and are an excellent cost-effective solution for applications that require 100 percent torque down to zero speed. They are available in 230/460 VAC and are now offered in sizes up to 20 hp at 1,800 rpm and from ¼ to 10 hp at 1,200 rpm.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2024-12-04

ABB Completes Acquisition of Aurora Motors

ABB has completed the acquisition of Aurora Motors. The transaction was originally announced on November 4, 2024, and financial terms were not disclosed. Aurora Motors is a $4 million U.S. vertical pump motors provider, with engineering and operations in Shanghai, China, and a corporate office and distribution center in Hayward, California. 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-12-03

Thomson Introduces Collaborative 7th Axis with Collision Detection

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. 

| 2024-12-02

Trelleborg Shares Insights on Sealing Needs for Electric Motors

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-11-22

Faulhaber Offers Motion Controller with Four Different Motor Technologies

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.

REVOLUTIONS | 2024-11-20

Electromechanical vs. Hydraulic: A Linear Motion Case Study

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.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2024-11-19

WEG Highlighted in the Inovativos Award

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.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2024-11-18

Power Transmission Leaders Gather at 2024 PTDA Industry Summit

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-11-13

WEG Supplies Motors for Underground Treatment Water Pumping Station

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-11-12

Bonfiglioli Offers Mechatronic and Automation Solutions at SPS Nuremberg

Bonfiglioli is present at SPS Nuremberg from November 12-14. At Booth 450 in Hall 3A, Bonfiglioli showcases its comprehensive mechatronic proposal covering AMRs, material handling, logistics automation and packaging along with IIoT capabilities. Eyes also on electronics, with the solutions developed by Selcom.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-11-07

Portescap Offer Motors for Humanoid Development

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-10-11

MSS Offers Compact, High-Force Solenoids

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-10-08

Binder Offers Special Flange Components Creating Seamless Connections

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-10-03

AutomationDirect Offers IronHorse AC Drives

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. 

FEATURE ARTICLES | 2024-10-02

A Backward Glance at TPS 2024

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.

TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2024-10-02

Control System Techniques—Dampers (Part 1)

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-10-02

Kollmorgen Announces its Next-Generation PCMM2G Controller

Kollmorgen has released its new PCMM2G programmable motion controller.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2024-10-02

ABB Opens Doors to the Public for Manufacturing Day

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.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2024-09-27

Fraunhofer IWM Explores the Impact of a Potential PFAS ban with Freudenberg

The family of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) is facing intense scrutiny. A reporting rule will take effect in the United States in 2026, while Europe has actually been considering a sweeping, cross-industry ban on these substances since early last year. The implications of such a ban on fluoropolymers would be particularly critical, as a discontinuation of these high-performance materials would drastically impact many industries. But what kinds of challenges would emerge in the search for adequate substitutes? This was the focus of a recent study by the Fraunhofer Institute for Mechanics of Materials (IWM) in cooperation with materials experts from the Freudenberg Group.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-09-27

OES Adds Z-Axis Positioning Stages with Four Motor Options

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. 

FEATURE ARTICLES | 2024-09-13

Massive Machinery and Innovation at MINExpo International 2024

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-09-13

Applied Motion Products Introduces Control Module for Conveyor Smart Motor

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-09-03

Parvalux by Maxon Offers Rapid Prototyping Capabilities for Motors

The latest innovation by Parvalux is their ability to provide prototype motors at a rapid pace. The company has designed and manufactured a series of modular components that are easily mixed and matched so that users get a paired system from one manufacturer rather than piecing together components such as motors, gearheads, brakes, and encoders from various manufacturers. The ability to create a near optimal motor drive for your application just became faster and easier. In a three-step selection process, designers can purchase a motor that is built to order using the company’s online configurator. 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-08-26

AutomationDirect Offers M.G.M. Electric IEC Motors and Brake Motors

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. 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-08-23

Redex USA to Showcase Advanced Machine Tool Drives at IMTS 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.

REVOLUTIONS | 2024-08-23

Engineering Legacy: Maxon (1961)

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.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2024-08-21

EASA Presents Exceptional Achievement Service Award

The Electrical Apparatus Service Association (EASA) honored John S. Allen, managing director, Sheppard Engineering Limited, with the 2024 EASA Exceptional Achievement Service Award.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-08-21

Portescap Brushless DC Motors Optimize Ventilator Performance

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.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2024-08-16

Bonfiglioli Showcases Expanded Electromobility Portfolio at iVT Expo

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-08-15

Yaskawa Expands Variable Speed Drive Line

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. 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-08-14

ABB Expands Baldor-Reliance SP4 Technology in Severe Duty Enclosures

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.

REVOLUTIONS | 2024-08-13

Dual Loop Motion Control with Only One Encoder

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. 

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2024-08-12

Norelem Plans U.S. Expansion

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.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2024-08-12

Faulhaber Receives Innovation Award

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-08-12

Schneider Electric Enhances Enterprise Software Suite

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.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2024-08-09

ABB Develops NEMA Energy Savings Calculator

Forty-five percent of the world’s electricity is used to power electric motors in buildings and industrial applications. By 2030, this cost is projected to reach $900 billion annually. Lowering CO₂ emissions and increasing energy efficiency is critical for our planet, but also for ensuring stable and productive industry operations, lowering operating costs and total costs of ownership. To help motor operators better understand the financial and environmental benefits of upgrading current and end-of-life industrial electric motors, ABB has developed its NEMA motors Energy Savings Calculator.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-08-06

Portescap Offers Compact Spur Gearing Solution for Pumps

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.

FEATURE ARTICLES | 2024-08-05

Differential Gearboxes Ensure Wire and Cable Quality and Consistency

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-08-02

MSS Offers Rotary Solenoids Series

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.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2024-08-02

Hannover Messe 2025 Focuses on Motion and Drives

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. 

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2024-08-01

Columbus McKinnon Plans to Consolidate Duff Norton Linear Motion Production with New Facility in Mexico

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. 

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2024-07-29

ABB Baldor-Reliance EC Titanium Motors Earn ENERGY STAR Emerging Technology Award

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.

REVOLUTIONS | 2024-07-22

Massive Machinery and Innovation at MINExpo International 2024

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.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2024-07-18

Bonfiglioli USA Celebrates 25th Anniversary

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.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2024-07-16

Voith Helps Growth of Zero-Emission Public Transport in the UK

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. 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-07-16

Thomson Adds Controllability to Long-Life Electric Actuators

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. 

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2024-07-10

Ebm-Papst Expands in North America

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-07-10

Ketterer Brushless Wheel Hub Drives Suitable for AGVs

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.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2024-07-09

Nidec/U.S. Motors Announces Two Senior Staff Promotions

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. 

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2024-06-26

MPIF Announces PM Design Excellence Award Winners

The winners in the 2024 Powder Metallurgy (PM) Design Excellence Awards competition, sponsored by the Metal Powder Industries Federation (MPIF), demonstrate outstanding examples of PM’s diversity and ability to meet critical requirements. From electric vehicles to medical implants, once again, parts fabricators have demonstrated PM’s versatility and unique ability to challenge competing technologies. These award-winning components use PM’s flexibility to push forward new concepts and process controls to demonstrate the inexhaustible range of PM’s capabilities.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2024-06-25

Innomotics Partners in Construction of World's First Digital Mine

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.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2024-06-24

Sulzer Brings Motors Back Online and Minimizes Lost Production

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-06-21

ABB Offers Motor Solutions at 2024 EASA Convention

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+.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-06-18

Bodine Electric Company Introduces New Brushless DC Hypoid Gearmotors

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. 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-06-17

Nord Offers Complete Drive Solution with LogiDrive

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.

FEATURE ARTICLES | 2024-06-03

GKN Automotive Focuses on Powertrain Developments for EVs

As the world shifts towards sustainable energy solutions, the demand for electric vehicles (EVs) continues to increase, and at pace. This transition impacts the priorities of those throughout the industry—from OEMs to suppliers—as traditional automotive components are being replaced by electric motors, battery systems, power electronics, and thermal management systems.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-05-24

Nord's Heavy-Duty, Reliable Drive Systems Tackle Tough Industrial Applications

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-05-23

OES Releases Dual-Axis Elevator-Rotary Stages

The ATR-V-60-60 Series (-01 thru -04) of Dual-axis Elevator-Rotary Stages has been released by Optimal Engineering Systems, Inc. (OES).  These compact, Elevator-Rotary Stages feature a high stability Elevator Stage with 120 mm x 80 mm table and 60 mm +/- 2 mm of vertical travel and a load capacity of 5.0 kg.   A 60 mm diameter Rotary Stages is mounted vertically.  The scissor lift design of the elevator stages combined with precision roller bearings and slide rails assures smooth motion and very high parallelism throughout the travel of the table. The rotary stages capable of continuous rotation feature high precision bearings and 90:1 worm gear.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-05-20

Faulhaber Micromotors Optimizes Small Parts Assembly

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-04-30

ABB Introduces AI-Powered Robotic Solutions at Automate 2024

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).

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-04-22

Akribis Systems Announces Compact Rod Motors

Akribis Systems is pleased to announce a new addition to its varied motion control product line: RDM-A Series rod motors for space-constrained applications requiring high motor forces and smooth linear motion. 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-04-19

Nord Offers Optimum Conveyor Functionality with Nordac On/On+ VFDs

Nordac On/On+ decentralized variable frequency drives are the latest electronic control innovations to be produced by global manufacturer, Nord Drivesystems. These VFDs have been engineered for the specific requirements of horizontal conveyor technology and feature integrated functions to optimize operation performance, an integrated Ethernet interface, full Plug-and-Play capability, and a compact design.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-04-17

Faulhaber Introduces New Integrated Motion Controller

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-04-16

Emotors Adopts Siemens’ Simcenter Solutions for NVH Testing of Next-Generation Automotive E-Drives

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).

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-04-15

Maxon Supplies Components for Remote Robotic Assisted Surgery System Tested Aboard the International Space Station

The robotic-assisted surgery (RAS) system incorporates the first-ever articulating camera. MIRA and spaceMIRA gain its strength in a small size by placing maxon’s motors inside the arms of the minibot. This structure allows the device to tackle a complex multi-quadrant procedure like colon resection across a broad range of patient types. The rigid, non-snake-like arms with internally mounted motors deliver the required strength to perform the surgeries while enabling triangulation of the camera and instruments. 

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2024-04-12

Innomotics Wins Prestigious Design Award

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. 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-04-11

Zero-Max OHLA and CD Couplings Satisfy Critical Electrification Requirements

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. 

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2024-04-09

PTDA Foundation Welcoming Nominations for 2024 Leadership Awards

The PTDA Foundation is seeking nominations for its Wendy B. McDonald Woman of the Year Award and Robert K. Callahan Advancing Leaders Award. 

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2024-04-08

James F. Howe Appointed President, Motion

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-04-05

Applied Motion Introduces MDX+ Servo System Series

Applied Motion Products introduces the MDX+ series, a family of low-voltage servo systems that integrate a servo drive, motor, and encoder into one package. Solutions with 100/200/400/550W power output are available. The MDX+ product line supports pulse train-based control methods (Pulse/Direction, CW/CCW, encoder following), RS-485, CANopen, and EtherCAT. It also offers packages with electromagnetic brakes to meet the safety requirements of today's industries and will soon provide STO. The MDX+ series is an ideal solution for manufacturers in logistics, AGV, medical, semiconductor, and solar industries, among many others.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-04-02

Nidec/U.S. Motors Expands and Enhances Vertical Pump Motors

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.  

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2024-03-29

PTDA to Host 2024 Canadian Conference in June

The Power Transmission Distributors Association (PTDA) will convene for the PTDA 2024 Canadian Conference in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada on June 4–6. Delegates in the power transmission/motion control (PT/MC) industry, representing PTDA distributor and manufacturer companies, will broaden cross-channel networks, expand connections and deepen business relationships.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-03-29

Nord Displays Drive Solutions at AAAE Conference

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-03-21

ABB Showcases Motor Solutions at AGG1

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. 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-03-20

Bonfiglioli Offers Mobile Solutions at Logimat 2024

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-03-18

ABB Baldor-Reliance SP4 Motors Represent the Latest in Motor Efficiency

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-03-08

Nord DuoDrive Receives UL/CSA Certification

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. 

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2024-03-07

Heidenhain Announces “CONNECT” Manufacturing Innovation Hub in Silicon Valley

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.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2024-03-01

ABB and CERN Identify Energy-Saving Opportunities in Heating and Ventilation Motors

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-03-01

OES Introduces Stored Program Motion Controllers

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-02-29

Faulhaber Motor Assists with Robotic Tool Changer

In industry and logistics, robots generally handle monotonous tasks that they can repeat almost endlessly with steady precision. A new type of tool changer now turns the specialist for large series into a flexible all-rounder, with which even small series and individual pieces can be produced economically. The TKX changer series from the IPR specialists features a motor from Faulhaber in the electric drive of the automatic changer.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-02-29

Maxon Introduces 3-Axes Motion Control Motherboard

The release of the maxon EPOS4 Micro 24/5 CAN positioning controller has realized the option of significantly minimizing the “real estate” traditionally occupied by motor controllers.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-02-27

Nord Drivesystems Offers Intralogistics Solutions at Modex 2024

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-02-21

Voith Provides Inline Thrusters for Superyacht

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-02-16

ABB IE5 SynRM Motor Provides Energy Efficiency and High-Power Output

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-02-12

Sulzer's EMW Pump Reduces Maintenance Needs

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.

REVOLUTIONS | 2024-02-08

Interact Analysis Examines Low Voltage AC Drive Market

The low voltage (LV) AC drive market saw unit shipments surpass 20 million in 2023 as the market continues to expand, new data from Interact Analysis shows. According to the market intelligence specialist, the pace of growth slowed last year and is expected to continue to do so in 2024, with steady growth returning to the global drives market in 2025.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-02-08

Nord Exhibits Reliable Solutions at GEAPS Exchange

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. 

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2024-02-08

AD Sets Sales Record in 2023

AD is reporting a record result for 2023 in owner/member sales, which increased 5 percent over prior year to $78.9 billion.

Purchases by member companies from AD supplier partners were $19.8 billion. Net distributions to owner/members were $1.4 billion.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-02-07

Applied Motion Products Introduces M5 Servo Series

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-01-29

Nord Provides Drive Solutions for Post and Parcel Distribution

Nord Drivesystems supports post and parcel distribution centers with modular products adaptable to individual application specifications. Their high-efficiency products increase the energy efficiency of conveyor systems, effectively lowering CO2 emissions and the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO).

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-01-18

Dunkermotoren Launches Linear Motor Series

With the SL 38 product family, Dunkermotoren, an AMETEK brand, has launched a high-performance linear motor series. As an all-stainless-steel version, the ServoLine 38 STL is built with the highest material quality and environmental resistance.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-01-12

Portescap Motor Sets Standard for Downsizing Devices

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

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-01-11

Nord Drivesystems Offers Drive Solutions at IPPE 2024

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.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2024-01-10

WorldWide Electric Acquires North American Electric, Inc.

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. 

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2024-01-09

Motion Names New SVP Strategy and Markets

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. 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-01-08

Mahle Presents Electric Drives at CES 2024

Mahle will feature products focusing on electric drives and intelligent charging at CES 2024. Mahle's technology kit for electric motors featured at CES 2024 combines the advantages of the company's benchmark SCT and MCT electric motors. With this unique technology toolbox for electric motors, Mahle can offer its customers customized electrification solutions for any vehicle class, application, or even brand philosophy.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2024-01-04

PTDA 2024 Industry Immersion Conference Offers Knowledge Building and Networking

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.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2024-01-02

Parvalux Opens New U.K. Facility

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-01-02

Mitsubishi Electric Automation to Highlight New Tech at AHR Expo 2024

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-12-26

Optimal Engineering Systems Introduces Compact, Motorized Rotary Stages

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-12-15

Oriental Motor Supplies Automation Products for SCARA Robot

Oriental Motor supports the internal designing of application-specific robots with the AZ Series. The AZ Series is a family of motors, actuators, and network drives that feature an absolute sensor, closed-loop control, and easily works with the multi-axis MRC0l controller. This combination of products allows for internally designed and built in-house automation that are designed according to the circumstances and decrease the hurdles in locations where automation wasn't possible; for example, where commercial robots had space restrictions or lack of space inside the equipment, cost limitations, and other barriers.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-12-14

Portescap Expands Flat Motor Portfolio

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-12-13

Sulzer Boosts Power Infrastructure in China

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-11-30

Bonfiglioli Highlights Industrial Automation Solutions at SPS 2023

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-11-28

AMC Introduces All in One Servo Drive

Advanced Motion Controls (AMC) is proud to announce the release of the FE060-25-IPM FlexPro series servo drive. This drive is designed to provide advanced control and power in one compact package, making it the perfect choice for a wide range of industrial and commercial applications.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-11-17

Dana Announces New Solutions for Agriculture Tractors

Dana Incorporated has launched a comprehensive vehicle design methodology for delivering complete, integrated suspension solutions for high-performance agriculture tractors.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-11-16

Portescap Announces AS9100 Certification in Mumbai, India

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-11-10

AutomationDirect Offers Toshiba EQP Global SD Severe Duty Motors

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.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-11-10

Sulzer Supports Oil Company with Compressor Repair and Maintenance

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-11-08

Bega Special Tools Quick-Heater Can be Used for Mounting, Dismounting, and Pre-Heating

Bega Special Tools introduces a portable multi-purpose induction heater on the North American market. The MF Quick-Heater 3.0-3.5 kW can be used for mounting, dismounting and pre-heating purposes. Weighing less than 8 kg and fitting in a small carrying case, this easy-to-use but powerful tool is just plugged into the mains 230 V. It can be used in difficult circumstances where other systems are impossible to operate, for instance where there is little space to work in or where no open fire is permitted. The heater’s flexible inductors are ideal for a large variety of parts with a maximum diameter of 120 mm. Application examples can be found in all types of industries. 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-11-01

Sulzer Reduces Energy Costs with Hydraulic Power Recovery Turbines

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-10-27

Burckhardt Compression Revives Steel Mill's Compressors to Enhance Sustainability

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-10-26

Moticont Updates Linear Voice Coil Servomotor Line

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).

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-10-23

Nord Presents Drive Solutions at FMB 2023

Nord Drivesystems will present its large range of innovative drives for mechanical engineering at FMB 2023, from November 8-10,2023 in the exhibition center in Bad Salzuflen. In Hall 20, stand D4, the presentation’s focus will be on the IE5+ synchronous motors and the decentralized Nordac On+ frequency inverters.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-10-23

WEG Acquires Regal Rexnord's Industrial Electric Motors Business

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-10-13

Bodine Introduces New Stainless-Steel Hollow Shaft Gearmotors

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.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-10-09

Interact Analysis Examines Geared Motors and Industrial Gears Market

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.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-10-06

WorldWide Electric and Hyundai Electric End Exclusive U.S. Market Relationship

WorldWide Electric announces the end of its exclusive low-voltage electric motor distribution relationship with H.D. Hyundai Electric Co., Ltd. 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-10-02

Sumitomo Drive Technologies Presents New Generation of its ECY Shaft Gear Series

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-09-29

Mitsubishi Electric Expands Servomotor Portfolio

The MELSERVO-J5 portfolio of servomotors and amplifiers has been expanded to include two new servo types, additional “high-speed” motor models, and a number of new features and functions for enhanced capabilities and unparalleled performance compared to previous generations.

TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2023-09-28

Extending Inverter-Motor Systems Service Life

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

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

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-09-27

Portescap Gearhead Minimizes Heat and Enhances Efficiency

Portescap introduces the new R22T gearhead, the latest addition to its existing 22 mm gearbox portfolio. As a mid-torque gearhead, the R22T fills the gap between our light-torque R22 and high-torque R22HT gearheads. It is also fully compatible with Portescap’s brush DC and brushless DC slotless motors.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-09-27

AD Bearings & Power Transmission Group Gathers in South Carolina for Network Meeting

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-09-25

ABB Offers High-Efficiency Motors at WEFTEC

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-09-20

Sulzer Highlights Pump and Bearing Technology at WEFTEC

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-09-15

ABB to Feature Motor Technologies at Turbomachinery Show

ABB will be featuring its high-efficiency NEMA motors solutions at Turbomachinery & Pump Symposia on September 25 – 28 in Houston. Attendees are invited to visit Booth #2835 to learn from experts how ABB’s innovative products and services provide essential solutions for energy saving, facility comfort, productivity and more. ABB’s Global Segment Manager Todd Huston and Account Manager Kirk Franz will be available at the booth to discuss the products and the product benefits.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-09-11

Nord Drivesystems Supports High Efficiency Electric Motor Funding

Nord supports companies in undertaking the use of high efficiency electric motors funded by a program of the Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control (BAFA) and thus taking an important step towards energy efficiency and sustainability. Funding is available for both drives in new plants and conversions to more efficient systems, with up to 40 percent of the investment costs being covered.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-09-08

OES Offers New Series of Gimbal Mounts

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. 

FEATURE ARTICLES | 2023-09-05

A Closer Look at TPS

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-09-05

Miki Pulley CSZ Clutches Provide Smooth Conveying Solutions

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-09-01

ZF Develops Magnet-Free Electric Motor

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.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-09-01

PTDA Welcomes Three New Members

The Power Transmission Distributors Association (PTDA) welcomes three new distributors to its membership including Gordon Russell, MROSupply.com and Grainger.

REVOLUTIONS | 2023-08-30

Interact Analysis Examines Ultra-Low Voltage Motors Market

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

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-08-29

NSK Presented with Motion’s Supplier of the Year Award

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-08-29

Siemens SINAMICS S210 Servo Drive System Upgrades Mid-Range Product Portfolio

With the SINAMICS S210 next generation servo drive system, comprising a digitally native drive with wide range of corresponding motors and gearboxes, Siemens brings a new level of high-dynamic, motion control in mid-range operation to stand-alone and multi-axis machines. This next generation servo drive system introduces a new level of safety and security to discontinuous motion control in the mid-range segment, as well as moving, processing and positioning functions on a wide assortment of packaging, printing, labeling, pick-and-place, stacking, assembly, chip sorting and filling machines, with a special emphasis on food-and-beverage and pharmaceutical applications, owing to the availability of stainless-steel motor and planetary gearbox options.  

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-08-28

Heidenhain Offers Measurement Technology at NAEC

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.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-08-23

Sulzer Pump and Rotating Equipment Technologies on Display at AIMEX

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-08-18

Nord Offers Drive Solutions at Pack Expo Las Vegas 2023

Nord Drivesystems will be exhibiting at Pack Expo Las Vegas from September 11-13, 2023, in Booth #7863 in the South Upper Hall.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-08-17

Tecnofirma Develops Modular System for Electric Motor Production

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. 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-08-15

Kollmorgen Expands Performance and Flexibility of AKD2G Servo Drive Series

Kollmorgen has announced the new AKD2G 24A drive. Designed for applications in precision multi-axis servo systems, the new single-cable optimized drive builds upon the strengths of the AKD2G portfolio including upgraded safety features, SD card backup and a graphical display with higher amperage to support more applications with higher power requirements such as conveyors and vertical lifting applications.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-08-15

Bison – A Business of AMETEK – Combines AMETEK Dynamic Fluid Solutions and Bison Gear and Engineering Corp.

AMETEK Dynamic Fluid Solutions (AMETEK DFS) and the former Bison Gear and Engineering Corp. have combined to create a more robust, customer-centric business named Bison. The newly created Bison, a business of AMETEK, Inc., will provide a broader range of high-quality products, unparalleled customization and integration support, accelerated time to production, and global manufacturing flexibility.

| 2023-08-15

Fact or Fiction?

In everyday life and in the technical fields we often discover that certain decisions are based on “scientific data” when, in fact, they are often founded on historic conclusions that have not been challenged or re-evaluated in a long time. One such common myth is that for a stable and well-tuned drive you should match the motor’s inertia to the load inertia, which is typically done using a gearbox. Two factors lead to that conclusion: a. there is an optimization formula using the time constant of the motor and the load torque that shows that the best acceleration will be achieved if the reflected load inertia matches the rotor inertia; and b. a PID controller, which was commonly used when electric servos entered the marketplace, tend to perform best and appear to be most stable when the inertia are close or matched.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-08-14

Allied Motion Announces Corporate Name Change to Allient Inc.

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. 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-08-11

Nord’s IE5+ Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor Technology Receives New Design and Frame Sizes

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.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-08-07

EASA Honors Franklin with Exceptional Achievement Service Award

The Electrical Apparatus Service Association (EASA) honored Dennis Franklin, an Essex Brownell retiree, for the EASA Exceptional Achievement Service Award.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-08-04

AD’s Independent Distributor Community Connects at 2023 AD Summit

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.

TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2023-08-03

Lenze Relies on the FVA-Workbench for Technical Sales

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.

FEATURE ARTICLES | 2023-08-03

Get Pumped for TPS 2023!

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-08-02

SEW-Eurodrive Advances Smart Automation Services

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.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-08-01

Solar-Powered Butterfly Visits Tanton, MA to Offer Climate Change Solutions

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. 

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-07-21

Kollmorgen Launches Express Delivery to Shorten Motion Product Lead Times

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.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-07-13

Faulhaber Offers Free Drive Technology Webinars

With its drive technology webinars, which are around one hour in length, Faulhaber provides the possibility of bringing your knowledge up to speed without having to spend too much time and effort. Missed webinars can now be accessed online at any time. This requires one-off registration, which is then valid for an entire year.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-07-11

AD Closes Merger with The Baron Group

AD has closed its merger with The Baron Group, the premier cooperative serving independent groundwater systems distributors, effective June 30, 2023.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-07-10

Delo Develops Adhesive for Electric Motor Applications

DELO has developed its first dual-curing, high-temperature adhesive for electric motor applications. Delo Dualbond HT2990 is designed for use in multiple processes, including magnet bonding and magnet stacking in electric motor manufacturing. 

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-07-10

Nidec Completes Acquisition of Houma Armature Works

Nidec Corporation has acquired full ownership of TAR, LLC d/b/a Houma Armature Works, a privately- owned US company (“Houma”).  As a result of the transaction, Houma became a consolidated subsidiary of Nidec.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-06-27

TorqSense Transducers Help Valve Actuator Performance

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-06-26

Neugart Configuration Tool Adds Additional Functions

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.

REVOLUTIONS | 2023-06-23

EASA 2023 Highlights Motor, Pump and Machine Technology

The 2023 EASA Convention, June 25-27, at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in National Harbor, MD. EASA (https://easa.com/conventionsupports 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.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-06-21

Parvalux Teams Up with Keller Industrial Products, Inc.

Parvalux has recently teamed with Keller Industrial Products, Inc., headquartered in Rochester, NY USA. The experienced team at Keller has specialized in mechatronic applications for OEMS and advanced manufacturing sites since 1937. As business development professionals who focus on motion control automation applications, components, and accessories, the company provides expert representation in the industry.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-06-20

Faulhaber Drive Units Adjust Shutter and Focus for Camera Application

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.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-06-20

PTDA Industry Summit Offers New Discoveries

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. 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-06-16

Nidec Features Latest Motor Technology at EASA 2023

Visitors to EASA in June will get a chance to see some of the highest efficiency electric motors available on the market when they stop by the Nidec Motor Corporation Booth (#613). Nidec’s “Super Premium” and above variable frequency drive (VFD) motors and all-in-one, integrated motors and controls are leading the industry with efficiency ratings of IE 4 and IE 5 for remarkable energy savings compared to traditional single speed motors.  

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-06-09

Moticont Releases Latest Linear Voice Coil Servomotor

The HVCM-051-032-013-01 Linear Voice Coil Motor released by Moticont, features a high force-to-size ratio and a 19.1 mm (0.75 in.) stroke.  A low inertia, high acceleration/deceleration, high speed, clean and quiet, non-commutated, hollow core brushless servomotor, the HVCM-051-032-013-01 Linear Voice Coil Motor is ideal for applications such as: Testing, optical focusing, positioning, laser beam steering, laser drilling, cutting and machining, medical diagnostic equipment, scanning, wafer handling, dynamic vibration absorption, sorting, and assembly applications.

| 2023-06-07

Mobile Robot Components Market Fueled by Order Fulfillment Robots

New research by Interact Analysis shows the market for mobile robot components is expected to enjoy rapid growth out to 2027, reaching a value of $7.4bn with a CAGR of 44.8 percent over the next 5 years. Regionally, the United States currently dominates the market, but China will become a strong rival and is expected to overtake the United States in terms of unit sales by 2025, while the U.S. will continue to lead in terms of revenue. 

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-06-06

Sulzer Utilizes Pump Experience for Raizen Collaboration on Biofuel Production

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.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-06-01

Motion Plus Now Offering NSK Automation Products

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. 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-05-19

Faulhaber Introduces Drives for Intralogistics

The demands that modern intralogistics place on the used drives are high: In many instances, they must be capable of releasing tremendous forces under extremely confined conditions, also work reliably in continuous or stop-and-go operation, and oftentimes they must also perform highly precise positioning tasks. The speed also plays an important role, after all, many thousand orders need to be processed every day in large warehouses. Drive systems from Faulhaber have often demonstrated their performance here during sorting and transporting as well as with storage and retrieval.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-05-18

3BG Supply Acquires Controls and Electric Motor Company

3BG Supply Co. (3BG) recently announced the completion of its acquisition of Controls and Electric Motor Company (CEMCO). 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-05-17

SEW-Eurodrive Expands Motor Portfolio

SEW-Eurodrive is expanding its comprehensive portfolio to include new motors for purely inverter operation. The synchronous motors of the DR2C.. series satisfy the highest standard-based efficiency class IE5 for adjustable-speed electric motors. This makes them yet another sustainable and energy-saving motor variant. 

REVOLUTIONS | 2023-05-17

Conference Offers Best Practices in Automation and Motion Control

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.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-05-15

Motion Announces Executive Officer Promotions

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

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-05-15

Nord Delivers Drive Technology for End-of-Line Packaging

Nord Drivesystems is highly familiar with the packaging industry’s specific requirements and has developed specialized solutions for end-of-line packaging applications.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-05-12

ELIN Motoren and Voith Launch Electric Motors for Tunnel Boring Machines

ELIN Motoren and Voith launch the first electric motor with integrated safety coupling for the main drive of tunnel boring machines. Water-cooled asynchronous motors from ELIN Motoren contain either the Voith SafeSet to safeguard the entire drive train or the Voith SmartSet for continuous operation, even with frequent torque peaks. Torque limitation increases the productivity of the TBM, protects the machine components, and avoids costly downtimes.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-05-11

Bonfiglioli Offers Sustainable Electric Solutions at Logimat 2023

Logimat was the perfect opportunity for Bonfiglioli to share the expertise and know-how capitalized in over 60 years of business with customers and to present its solutions for forklifts, warehousing trucks and automated storage.

REVOLUTIONS | 2023-05-11

Giant Solar-Powered Butterfly Exposes Climate Change Solutions

The SolarButterfly is focused on reaching millions of people, alerting them to the companies and individuals that are integral in transitioning societies away from fossil fuels toward clean energy technologies. Presently on a four-year journey around the world, the SolarButterfly plans to identify, record, and publicize at least a thousand climate protection pioneers and their solutions. 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-05-11

ABM Drives Offers Bevel Gearbox Units

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-05-10

Kollmorgen Introduces AKMA Servomotor

Kollmorgen has announced the launch of its AKMA servomotor built specifically for durability, cleanability, and versatility. The motor employs a hardened anodized aluminum surface to offer machine designers a cost-effective hygienic option to stainless steel in medium- to heavy-washdown applications. 

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-05-10

New Categories Introduced for PIE Technology Platform

Bearing Specialists Association (BSA) and the Power Transmission Distributors Association (PTDA) announce the introduction of two new product categories, belt drives and bearing accessories and tools, to the PIE Technology Platform (PIE). PIE is 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.

REVOLUTIONS | 2023-05-10

Automate 2023 Booth Previews

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.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-05-08

ABB Completes Acquisition of Siemens Low Voltage NEMA Motor Business

ABB recently announced it has completed its acquisition of the Siemens low voltage NEMA motor business. The transaction was originally announced August 11, 2022, and financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed. The business employs around 600 people and generated revenues of approximately $63 million in 2021.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-05-08

Heidenhain to Show Encoders at Robotics Summit

Heidenhain Corporation will be exhibiting at the annual Robotics Summit & Expo, May 10th and 11th. The event will be held at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-05-05

Ametek Aquires Bison Gear & Engineering

Ametek, Inc. has announced the acquisition of Bison Gear & Engineering Corp. (Bison), a leading manufacturer of highly engineered motion control solutions serving diverse markets and applications.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-05-04

AD Bearings & Power Transmission Hosts North American Meeting

AD Bearings & Power Transmission hosted its 2023 North American Meeting from March 21 to 24 in San Diego, where divisional members and suppliers connected for best practice sharing and meeting sessions dedicated to growing their business.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-05-03

Maxon Partners with MassRobotics to Support Drive Technology in Robotics

MassRobotics and maxon announce a partnership to support the robotics innovation ecosystem through collaboration and exploration of motion control technologies around automation and manufacturing-related applications. With maxon’s extensive expertise and knowledge of electric drives, this partnership will support and advance the latest innovations and technologies in motion control with automation-focused companies in the robotics sector. 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-04-28

OES Offers Goniometer Stages with Four Motor Options

Optimal Engineering Systems, Inc. (OES) has added four goniometers to their expanding catalog of high precision positioning stages. The new, AK160-30 Goniometer Series feature precision ground worm gears with a 400:1 ratio and pre-loaded cross roller guides offer +/- 30 degrees of travel with 30 kg of load.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-04-13

Portescap Brushless Flat Motor Added to ECF Series

Portescap announces the release of the 45ECF brushless DC flat slotted motor, the latest addition to join our flat motor portfolio. The 45ECF features a performance optimized design that utilizes an outer rotor configuration with an overall diameter of 43.2 mm and a body length of only 22.5 mm. The motor features hall sensors to easily control speed and torque and can be provided sensorless based on application requirements. Additionally, the motor can be used in combination with existing gearbox designs to provide high output torque at required operational speeds.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-04-12

Liebherr Components Expands Pump and Motor Offerings

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-04-10

Dana Offers Next-Generation E-Transmission

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. 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-04-07

Hägglunds Delivers Hydraulic Drive Systems for Mining Applications

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.

FEATURE ARTICLES | 2023-04-06

Having a Ball: The Technology Behind the Ball Drop

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.

FEATURE ARTICLES | 2023-04-06

Industrial Transformation at Hannover Messe

Hannover Messe 2023 provides the latest technologies in robotics, automation, motion control, IIoT, fluid power, e-mobility, material handling and more. 

POWER PLAY | 2023-04-06

Academic Accuracy

It’s called the d2, a small, lightweight, nanoliter microplate dispenser—say that five times fast— used in lab automation to handle a variety of liquids. Created by UK Robotics, the liquid handler was launched in 2022 to shakeup the possibilities of moving liquids around the lab on a budget.

TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2023-04-06

The Variation of Servomotor Efficiency in Different Applications

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

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-04-05

ABB Invests Nearly $100 million in New Berlin Greenfield Campus

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-03-31

Nord Highlights Drive Solutions at Interpack 2023

At Interpack in Dusseldorf, the drive specialist Nord Drivesystems will present its wide product portfolio and great expertise in the packaging industry from May 4-10, 2023 – from decentralized frequency inverters to energy-efficient drives to high-performance surface treatments for washdown or spray areas.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-03-31

AD Announces 2023 Board of Directors

AD announced that its owner/members elected three directors to its board of directors.
Each year, the AD board’s Nominating & Governance Committee holds an open nomination and voting period, during which AD members select members to its board of directors. Currently, more than 140 of AD’s 850-plus member companies provide leadership on corporate and divisional boards and committees.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-03-30

Orbex Group Offers Custom Brushless DC Motors

Orbex Group, a U.S.-based supplier of slip rings and electric motors, has introduced two new custom products to its offering of precision motion solutions. These custom flat brushless DC (BLDC) motors provide smooth motion, high precision and excellent power density, as well as an integral gear reducer in a compact package.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-03-28

Faulhaber Receives Special Honor on 75th Anniversary

On the occasion of the company's 75th anniversary, Faulhaber received a special honor by the municipality of Schönaich: From November 1, the street leading to the company site will be called Faulhaberstraße and the company building will bear the house number 1.

FEATURE ARTICLES | 2023-03-21

Making the Move to Digitalization and Electrification

The following article is a collection of products and technologies featured at IFPE and CONExpo/CONAGG 2023. 

FEATURE ARTICLES | 2023-03-21

Peering into the Crystal Ball on Condition Monitoring Technology

There is an increasing trend toward integrating evermore compact smart components into larger, more complex motion control systems, and advances in AI, ML, and IIoT are helping with the speed and quality of their adoption.

FEATURE ARTICLES | 2023-03-21

The High Demands of Off-Highway Drive Systems

The following off-highway, construction and mining solutions hint at the all-electric transition taking place across each industry.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-03-20

The Future of Construction Looks Promising

After five jam-packed days of innovative product launches and major company announcements, enlightening education sessions and countless networking opportunities, CONEXPO-CON/AGG & IFPE 2023 have come to a close, but not before taking the construction industry to the next level.

REVOLUTIONS | 2023-03-15

First Impressions

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. 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-03-13

Sumitomo Highlights Drive Technology at Hannover Messe 2023

Sumitomo Drive Technologies, together with Invertek Drives and Lafert Group, will be presenting its complete drive solutions for automation and Industry 4.0 at Hannover Messe 2023. From April 17 to 21, visitors to Hall 6, Booth B25 will learn how they can use energy-efficient drive solutions to meet their sustainability goals while also boosting their competitiveness.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-03-10

Moticont Offers High Force Linear Servomotor

A high force Linear DC servomotor from Moticont has been added to their expanding line of voice coil or moving coil motors. The LVCM-095-038-01 Linear Voice Coil Motor is a true servo motor featuring zero cogging, high accuracy, and high repeatability when operated in a closed positioning loop

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-03-09

Schaeffler Showcases Innovations for Construction and Aggregate Industries at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2023

Showcasing its engineering capabilities in e-mobility technology, power density optimization and mechatronics as well as state-of-the-art bearings for off-road vehicles, conveyor systems and vibratory applications, global industrial and automotive supplier Schaeffler is presenting a comprehensive portfolio of advanced solutions for the construction and aggregates industries at the 2023 CONEXPO-CON/AGG trade show in Las Vegas. 

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-03-09

Sulzer Wexford Plant Investments Pay Off Long Term

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. 

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-03-08

WomenPower Career Congress Announces 2023 Program

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.

REVOLUTIONS | 2023-03-06

Making the Move to Digitalization and Electrification

The International Fluid Power Exposition (IFPE), Las Vegas March 14-18, is where fluid power professionals meet to discover highly engineered solutions for improving mobile and industrial equipment's efficiency, performance, and sustainability. Attendees will also learn about the latest technology available to the industry and network to discuss and combat the most pressing industrial challenges.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-03-03

Nidec-Shimpo Expands FLEXWAVE Control Reducers Series

Nidec-Shimpo Corporation (“Nidec-Shimpo”) has added adopter-combined gearhead types to its FLEXWAVE series of precision control reducers currently on sale.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-03-02

Faulhaber Offers High Performance in Compact Dimensions with Linear Actuators

With the all-new Linear Actuator L product family, Faulhaber is offering a unique turn-key-solution for a broad range of applications. The smaller versions 06L/08L/10L are ideal for medical, lab automation, optics and photonics or space applications. The larger versions 22L/32L using the latest GPT gear technology, are designed for applications in the industrial automation and also optics & photonics. The linear actuator Faulhaber L family can therefore be combined with a wide range of DC motors, 4-pole and 2-pole brushless motors or stepper motors and are optimized to leverage at best the torque and speed range of the different Faulhaber motor families.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-02-23

Regal Rexnord Displays ModSort at LogiMat 2023

Regal Rexnord Corporation will feature its mobile, scalable, approachable and energy-efficient end-of-the-line sortation system, ModSort, at LogiMat 2023, Booth 1A41 in Hall 1. The show takes place at the Stuttgart Trade Fair Center (Stuttgart, Germany) from April 25-27.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-02-23

Germany's Economic Minister Set to Visit Hannover Messe

Some 4,000 companies from the general engineering, electrical, digital and energy industries will showcase solutions for the production and energy supply of the future at Hannover Messe. Dr. Robert Habeck, Germany's Federal Minister for Economics and Climate Action, is set to visit Hannover on the second day of the flagship event for dialog with representatives of industry on taking the path to climate-friendly production.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-02-22

PTDA Raises Nearly $125,000 in First Stage of Fundraising Campaign

During the first three months of its 2023 Fund Drive campaign, the PTDA Foundation raised nearly $125,000. Contributions to the annual PTDA Foundation Fund Drive support PT WORK Force, an initiative to empower PT/MC (power transmission/motion control) industry employers to be more successful in their recruitment and retention efforts. 

REVOLUTIONS | 2023-02-17

Hannover Messe Motors Preview

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. 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-02-14

Hägglunds to Exhibit Full Range of Motor & Drive Technology at SME MINEXCHANGE 2023

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.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-02-10

Airbus Selects Nidec Leroy-Somer to Develop Electric Motors for Zero-Emission Engine

Nidec Leroy-Somer has signed an agreement with Airbus to develop an electric motor for its hydrogen-powered fuel cell engine prototype, as part of Airbus’ ambition to bring the first zero-emission commercial aircraft to market by 2035. The long-standing expertise and extensive know-how of the French electric motor manufacturer, who already provides proven advanced technologies to many demanding industries, such as Navy, Nuclear, Railway, Automotive and Robotics is now collaborating on Aviation decarbonization. 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-02-10

NORD Showcases Supply Chain and System Solutions at ProMat

NORD DRIVESYSTEMS will be attending this year’s ProMat Exhibition to showcase their reliable supply chain solutions. Their modular product design delivers versatility with over 20,000,000 unique configurations of gearboxes, electric motors, and variable frequency drives – eliminating the need for costly custom components.

REVOLUTIONS | 2023-02-08

An Early Look at Automate 2023

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.

PUBLISHER'S PAGE | 2023-02-07

This is the Way

If you’ve watched any of the Star Wars/Disney+ series The Mandalorian, you’ve no doubt become familiar with the catchphrase “This is the Way,” often uttered by the main character and others who come from his home planet.


PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-02-06

Danfoss Highlights Machine Performance at IFPE 2023

Danfoss (Booth #S80515) will demonstrate how the company is “Powering the future of machine performance,” during IFPE 2023.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-02-03

Miki Pulley Brake Models Designed for Overhead Garage Door Applications

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. 

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-02-03

AD Reports Record 2022 Results

AD is reporting record results for 2022 in owner/member sales, member purchases from AD suppliers, AD warehouse sales to AD members, net distributions to members, and operational efficiency. 

REVOLUTIONS | 2023-02-02

A Look at Heat Dissipation Through E-Drives

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.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-02-02

ZF Unveils 5G Campus Network for Jeversen Commercial Vehicle Test Track

ZF’s Commercial Vehicle Solutions (CVS) division has further underlined its commitment to advancing ‘Next Generation Mobility’ by investing in cutting-edge 5G digital connectivity. Equipping its commercial vehicle test track at Jeversen, Germany, with its own powerful campus network enables enhanced testing of ‘Big Data’ backed solutions which are increasingly facilitating the next levels of Mobility as a Service (MaaS) and Transportation as a Service (TaaS). 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-02-02

NORD to Display High-Performance Drive Solutions at CONEXPO – CON/AGG 2023

NORD DRIVESYSTEMS will be exhibiting at this year’s CONEXPO–CON/AGG March 14th - 18th in Las Vegas, Nev. CON/AGG is North America’s largest construction trade show and creates one convenient place for attendees to learn about the future of construction technology and heavy-duty solutions from industry leaders. NORD’s construction solutions focus on reliability, high-efficiency, and versatility.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-01-31

Motion, Drive and Automation Firms Accelerate Digital Transformation at Hannover Messe

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-01-30

Heidenhain Exhibits Automation and Robotic Technology at ATX West

Heidenhain will be exhibiting at ATX West, Booth #4455, on February 7-9 in Anaheim, CA. Heidenhain will showcase the latest in absolute modular rotary encoders. ATX West focuses on how to better automate manufacturing processes by showcasing the latest automation and intelligent robotic technology to increase efficiency and reduce time, waste, and cost.  

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-01-27

Kollmorgen Launches the Advanced P8000 Series With the New P80630-SDN Stepper Drive

Kollmorgen recently announced the new P80630-SDN stepper drive. Customers can now benefit from features such as smoothness, precision and torque across the full speed range in a significantly more compact package that enables smaller, lighter, more versatile machines. Kollmorgen will also be introducing additional stepper drives and features in the coming months, building upon the new, flagship P8000 stepper drive platform. 

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-01-23

PTDA Welcomes Nelson Electric Motors

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.)

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-01-20

Bosch Rexroth Offers Complete Automation Solutions at ATX West 2023

Bosch Rexroth will showcase one of the industry’s most complete solutions for factory automation, robotics and smart manufacturing at ATX West 2023 on Feb. 7–9 in Anaheim, Calif.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-01-19

AMT–The Association For Manufacturing Technology and Mesago Messe Frankfurt Collaborate to Expand Automation Across the United States

Two of the global manufacturing industry’s premier organizations, AMT – The Association For Manufacturing Technology and Mesago, a subsidiary of Messe Frankfurt Group, today announced a collaboration to create the Automation Sector at IMTS – The International Manufacturing Technology Show in 2024, and SPS – Smart Production Solutions in Atlanta, Georgia, in 2025.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-01-19

PIE Technology Platform Launches

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-01-19

ABB Offers Innovative Solutions at IPPE Expo

ABB, Booth B6427, is showcasing innovative solutions necessary to help poultry suppliers reach their processing goals during the 2023 IPPE Expo in Atlanta, Georgia January 24-26. ABB experts will be available to discuss the safety and reliability customers can expect from ABB products and solutions. ABB delivers sustainability, reliability and safety across the entire food chain - from farm to fork. 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-01-17

Force Control Eliminates Downtime for Industrial Lumber Sawmill

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-01-13

NORD Returns to GEAPS Exchange with Material Handling Solutions

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-01-11

Force Control Magna Shear Brakes Featured at MinEXCHANGE 2023

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. 

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-01-06

PTDA Announces 2023 Board of Directors and Manufacturer Council

The recently elected 2023 Board of Directors and Manufacturer Council of the Power Transmission Distributors Association (PTDA) begin their leadership terms.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-12-29

NORD Exceeds $1 Billion in Sales in 2022

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. 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-12-29

Portescap Adds BLDC Slotted Motors to Portfolio

Portescap is excited to introduce the B2010A4 and B0810A1 brushless DC slotted motors, the two newest additions to the company's Surgical Motor Solutions portfolio. Leveraging Portescap’s decades-long expertise in developing sterilizable solutions for surgical hand tool applications, these motors are designed to withstand more than 1,000 autoclave and medical device dishwasher cycles. This is possible due to the improved encapsulation of the windings, which enhances the motors’ autoclavability.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-12-21

NORD Displays Cost-Effective Solutions at IPPE 2023

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-12-20

MSS Compact Rotary Solenoids Available in OEM Quantities

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-12-16

ETEL Magnetic Tracks Enable More Linear Motor Force

Offering a track with stronger magnets for their linear motors than previously available, ETEL introduces the new MWD+. This magnet-track family is compatible with any existing LMG and LMS linear motor from ETEL, enabling up to 15 percent higher continuous and peak forces compared to the existing MWD product.  

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-12-15

EASA Announces Spring 2023 Seminar Schedule

The Electrical Apparatus Service Association (EASA) announces its Spring 2023 training seminar schedule. Offered in various locations around the United States, EASA's industry-specific training pools more than 100 years of rotating equipment knowledge from EASA's technical support staff. Participants have an opportunity to interact face-to-face with the presenters, as well as each other. 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-12-06

IKO Offers U.S. Availability of Mech Series Actuators

With AutomationWare’s Mech Series E-actuators, engineers can obtain accurate, controllable movement for almost any performance and size requirement. The series features an advanced ball screw transmission system to handle a wide range of dynamic loads and speeds with exceptional thrust performance. The units come with integrated brushless or high-speed stepper motors and an integrated feedback encoder.

REVOLUTIONS | 2022-12-02

NORD Powers Intralogistics Systems with Modular Drive Solutions

NORD DRIVESYSTEMS delivers intralogistics solutions that focus on high-efficiency, intelligent automation, and reduced Total Cost of Ownership (TCO). Their innovative drive solutions are extremely versatile and used throughout the world in a wide variety of applications including storage and retrieval systems, transfer carts, and conveyor systems. NORD’s modular product portfolio consists of reliable, UNICASE gear units with long service life, powerful high-efficiency motors, and dynamic variable frequency drives that optimize automation. Easy to service and maintain, NORD drives reduce standstill times and contribute to an increased efficiency and availability of entire systems.

FEATURE ARTICLES | 2022-12-02

2022 PTE Buyers Guide

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.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-12-01

Low Voltage AC Motor Market Grew by 21.2% in 2022

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

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-11-30

Oriental Motor Troubleshoots Motor Noise

This Oriental Motor article provides more information on these types of noises and what can be done to minimize the noise.  It's important to remember to isolate the motor from any other noise-making source, such as metal plates or loose bolts.  It's also very useful to have an extra motor in good working condition for noise comparison, so you have a reference point.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-11-29

Heidenhain Presents Automation Solutions Showcase Online

Heidenhain will host a worldwide digital event for automation, running November 28 - December 16 with opportunities to join online with appointments available for North Americans over four days (December 5-8).

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-11-23

NORD Powers Georgia Feed Mill with Mechatronic Drive Solution

The processing and distribution of grain and feed for tens of millions of chickens requires efficient, dependable equipment and infrastructure. So, when Harrison Poultry President/CEO David Bleth and his team set out last year to design and build their new state-of-the-art feed mill in Crawfordville, GA, they knew exactly where to turn for simple, reliable mechatronic drive solutions for their conveyor systems, elevators, mixers, and screws.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-11-17

MSS Offers Bi-Directional Latching Solenoids

Latching Bi-Directional Solenoids released by Magnetic Sensor Systems (MSS) are low cost, economical to use, and easy to integrate into an application. The S-18-100LC2 and S-18-100LF2 Latching Bi-Directional Solenoids feature the same compact dimensions: 1.00 in. wide x 0.84 in. high x 1.73 in. long with 6-32 threaded Push/Pull plungers.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-11-16

Bonfiglioli Expands Drive Technology for Robotics

Drive technology that meets the requirements for robots and AMRs is very popular. The Bonfiglioli Group, which operates worldwide, has a wealth of know-how, experience and comprehensive manufacturing options for customer and machine-specific solutions, serving the industry with competitive gearboxes and gearmotors.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-11-09

Lafert Introduces New Plant in San Donà di Piave

The new production plant is officially in operation after its formal unveiling at Lafert’s 60th anniversary celebrations in San Donà di Piave, Italy, close to the historic headquarters.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-11-03

AMETEK Haydon Kerk Pittman Introduces New EGS Low-Profile Precision Rail

AMETEK Haydon Kerk Pittman (HKP), a business unit of AMETEK, is pleased to announce its new EGS04 low-profile precision rail.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-10-28

Regal Rexnord to Acquire Altra Industrial Motion

Regal Rexnord Corporation has reached a definitive agreement with Altra Industrial Motion Corp. providing for Regal Rexnord to acquire 100% of Altra shares.

Altra is a global designer and manufacturer of a wide range of highly engineered motion control, automation, and power transmission solutions. The transaction expands Regal Rexnord's portfolio, customer reach, and product diversity while enabling the creation of shareholder value through enhanced growth and substantial cost synergies.

REVOLUTIONS | 2022-10-24

Acquisitions by WEG and ABB Reveal Strategies Amongst Motor Suppliers

The top three suppliers of low voltage AC motors made waves in the motor and drives space with a string of acquisition announcements in August. First, WEG announced its acquisition of Gefran’s motion control business. Then, on August 11th, ABB announced its acquisition of Siemens’ NEMA motor business. Both developments are significant within the motor and drives market and serve to highlight portions of each company’s industrial automation strategy. In this insight, we’ll unpack both of these acquisitions and explain their implications on the broader motor and drives markets.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-10-21

WEG Commissions Drives for Oil & Gas Vessel

In the first quarter of 2022, the WEG High Voltage Service team (HVService) based at WEG Portugal facilities, successfully completed the commissioning of two Medium Voltage Variable Frequency Drives system for low pressure (LP) centrifugal fuel gas compressors at a FPSO (Floating Production Storage and Offloading) vessel at the Gulf of Mexico

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-10-19

Zero-Max Introduces New OHLA Models

Zero-Max did it again – three entirely new Extra-Duty Overhung Load Adaptor (OHLA) models. Based on decades of experience solving overhung load issues in the most demanding applications, the new designs feature a number of carefully chosen upgrades including spherical bearings, enhanced sealing technology, stronger shafts and a longer profile delivering increased operating life, heavy load capacities, and higher speed ratings.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-10-18

Magnetic Sensor Systems Releases Pull Type Tubular Solenoids

Magnetic Sensor Systems (MSS) has released their S-20-100X model of Pull Type Tubular Solenoids. Their S-20-100X series of solenoids features 18 different solenoids to select from based on the voltage, duty cycle, force and stroke requirement of the user. 

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-10-10

Members, suppliers, and new leadership come together at AD Bearings & Power Transmission Network Meeting

AD Bearings & Power Transmission welcomed over 140 member and supplier partner attendees to its annual Network Meeting from August 23-25 in Frisco, Texas. The meeting brought the division’s members and suppliers together to discuss industry trends, celebrate a year of growth and collaboration, and learn about important divisional updates.

| 2022-10-07

IFPE 2023 Gains International Attendees and Exhibitors

Attendees and exhibitors from across the globe are getting ready to make their way to CONEXPO-CON/AGG and the International Fluid Power Exposition (IFPE) next March, after government and corporate travel restrictions have either been reduced or eliminated since the 2020 show.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-10-06

NUM Launches Linear Electric Motors Series Designed for Machine Tools

NUM has launched a series of brushless linear servomotors designed specifically for continuous duty cycle applications in machine tools.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-10-06

Sulzer Focuses on Pump, Motor and Generator Maintenance at Rio Oil & Gas

Sulzer recently attended the Rio Oil & Gas Expo 2022, where visitors discovered its pumps, 24/7 rotating equipment services and chemical separation technologies. Attendees met with Sulzer experts to see how these solutions can maximize process uptime.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-10-04

ABB Offers Smart and Sustainable Solutions at WEFTEC

Visit ABB at Booth 6438 at WEFTEC 2022 in New Orleans, October 10-12 to meet experts, and view innovative and efficient solutions designed to help the water/wastewater industry keep its operations flowing.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-10-04

Beckhoff USA Appoints Jake Schieffer VP of Sales

Jake Schieffer is taking on a new role within Beckhoff USA as vice president of sales. This promotion results from Schieffer’s significant successes as regional director – Midwest. In the newly created national position, he will continue to promote business alignment throughout the sales organization and accelerate growth across the U.S. Based at the Beckhoff USA headquarters office in the Minneapolis area, Schieffer reports to President Kevin Barker. After Schieffer’s promotion, Steve Boelte was selected to fill the position of regional director – Midwest.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-09-30

ABB Expands Smart Sensor to General Machinery

ABB is now enabling customers to remotely monitor the health and performance of general machinery with the ABB Ability Smart Sensor, a key element of the ABB Ability Digital Powertrain.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-09-28

NORD Provides Automation for Airport and Baggage Handling Systems

When it comes to airport technology and baggage handling systems, efficiency, reliability, and intelligent automation is critical. NORD DRIVESYSTEMS meets these demands with solutions engineered with high flexibility, modular functionality, and convenient operation to effectively power systems and maintain availability. Their new IE5+ product portfolio delivers some of the highest efficiencies on the market for a cost effective, IIoT solution.

REVOLUTIONS | 2022-09-27

Kollmorgen Examines Functional Safety

Every machine builder knows that they have to meet stringent safety requirements to protect workers from the risk of injury. If they build machines for the EU market, they should know that the European regulatory landscape is more advanced than in most other regions, with newer and more rigorous requirements for safety design and testing.

EU-equivalent safety capabilities are also being adopted by many non-European manufacturers despite the lack of specific in-country regulations. Sooner or later, every machine builder will need to offer functional safety capabilities or be left behind. Let’s look at what that means.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-09-23

OES Offers Three-Axis Gimbal Mounts with Motor Options

OES (Optimal Engineering Systems, Inc.) has released four all new Three-axis Azimuth, Angular Elevation, and Roll Gimbal Mounts. These new high precision and high stability AU270-AER Gimbal Mounts locate the surface of the Roll Stage 115 mm below the center line of rotation allowing for the positioning of: Cameras, optics, lasers and instrumentation for scanning, tracking, positioning, pointing, and other applications on their respective centerlines. 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-09-19

Portescap Offers Latest Brushless Slotted Flat Motor to Portfolio

Portescap is pleased to announce the release of the 20ECF brushless slotted flat motor, which is the latest motor to join the flat motor platform. The 20ECF is characterized by a flat architecture, as well as a compact package size that is a hallmark of Portescap’s existing brushless motor portfolio.

FEATURE ARTICLES | 2022-09-13

Hannover Messe USA 2022 Booth Previews

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-09-07

Schaeffler Symposium Highlights E-Mobility Transformation

For more than 30 years, the Schaeffler Symposium has stood for innovation, customer focus and the open exchange of ideas. The 12th Schaeffler Symposium, the ninth event of its kind to take place in the U.S., will be held in two venues this year: in Detroit on Sept. 8 and, for the first time ever, in Silicon Valley on Sept. 21-22. This year’s Symposium will focus on transformation and “Energizing the Next Generation.” 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-08-26

NORD Releases Latest Industrial Gear Units

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

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-08-24

SKF Introduces Hybrid Deep Groove Ball Bearing

SKF has developed a new hybrid deep groove ball bearing for high-speed applications. The new bearing is aimed at applications such as rail industry traction motors, as well as electric machines and drives. SKF already has three pilot customers, all of them OEMs.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-08-22

PT WORK Force Offers New Tools to Help Lock in Top Talent

Finding employees in today’s labor market isn’t getting any easier. With quit and retirement rates near all-time highs, demand for qualified employees is outpacing labor supply. Two added resources from the PTDA Foundation’s PT WORK Force initiative can equip employers with essential tools to attract and retain top talent.

REVOLUTIONS | 2022-08-19

A Look at Servo Technology for Power Transmission Systems

The following article looks at the latest news on servo motors, drives and motors. How do we differentiate between the definitions? What can design engineers find between a stepper and a servo motor? Also, a quick update this summer on the benefits of closed-loop motor control. 

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-08-16

Hannover Messe USA Offers the Latest Automation and Motion Control Technologies

The Hannover Messe USA show floor will feature more than 300 companies that are giving attendees access to newly emerging solutions across the entire value-added supply chain.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-08-15

ABB to Acquire Siemens Low Voltage NEMA Motor Business

ABB recently announced it has signed an agreement to purchase Siemens’ low voltage NEMA motor business. With manufacturing operations in Guadalajara, Mexico, this acquisition provides a well-regarded product portfolio, a longstanding North American customer base, and an experienced operations, sales, and management team. The business employs around 600 people and generated revenues of approximately $63 million in 2021. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed. The transaction is expected to close in the second quarter of 2023.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-08-15

Bosch Rexroth Offers Linear Modules for Lighter Loads

Bosch Rexroth is now offering linear modules for small handling applications with its new SHB and SHL models. These modules are suitable for more than factory automation; they are designed for lighter load applications, such as in medical labs, universities and vision systems. With simple USB to laptop connectivity, monitoring and controlling are easy to achieve.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-08-09

Force Control Crane Brakes Eliminate Downtime

Force Control Industries presents a maintenance-free, no-adjustment crane brake that virtually eliminates crane downtime as well as the need to perform maintenance and adjustment at height. The MagnaShear motor brake employs oil shear technology, providing longer service life in demanding applications like the frequent start/stop cycles seen on cranes, hoists, and winches.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-08-09

PTDA Welcomes MEM Industrial, LLC

The Power Transmission Distributors Association (PTDA), the leading association for the industrial power transmission/motion control (PT/MC) distribution channel, welcomes a new member company, MEM Industrial. 

REVOLUTIONS | 2022-08-08

The Electric Steel Dilemma and Its Impact on Motor Vendors

Electric steel is used heavily in the manufacturing of electric motors. The material is key to producing the electromagnetic field used to turn the rotor. Without the electromagnetic properties associated with this iron alloy, the performance of electric motors would be substantially compromised. Historically, motors used in commercial and industrial applications have represented a major customer base for electric steel suppliers, and motor vendors have resultingly had little difficultly ensuring prioritized supply lines. However, the share of business held by commercial and industrial electric motor vendors is being threatened by the automotive sector in the wake of electric vehicles.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-08-08

ANCA Examines Benefits of Linear Motors

Growth in the global linear market is being driven by both increased demand across key industries and the clear advantages of linear motors over conventional motors. Within this segment, the contribution of ANCA Motion’s LinX M-Series linear motor has expanded the market and stands out above ball screw and flatbed motor options due to several design intricacies that simplify installation and use and push quality performance even further. Designed for function, the tubular construction of the LinX has several key benefits over flat linear motors.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-08-05

AD Announces VP of AD Network Community

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.

FEATURE ARTICLES | 2022-08-03

A Preview of the 2022 Turbomachinery & Pump Symposia

The Houston Turbomachinery & Pump Symposia (TPS) began as a 200-person Turbomachinery Symposium on the campus of Texas A&M University in 1972. The Pump Symposium was founded in 1984 and joined with Turbo for a singular event in 2011. TPS is a vital industry event that offers a forum for the exchange of ideas between rotating equipment engineers and technicians worldwide. For nearly 50 years, TPS is known for its impact on turbomachinery, pump, oil & gas, petrochemical, power, aerospace, chemical, and water industries through two pathways: the technical program and the exhibition.

TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2022-08-03

Design Takes on a More Holistic Scope

In the past, we designed motors and drives separately from the mechanical system, and then we integrated suitable components to make a system work. Increasingly, though, the design focuses more on the overall system aspect and system integration, which makes the design of customized components more challenging. In this article, we will use examples of specific software tools, and it should be noted that these are just that: examples. For many of these tools, multiple similar and good software packages exist that can be used.

TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2022-08-03

Closed Loop Control of Hybrid Motors: When Is It a Servo?

A quick search of the patents issued, as well as a review of recent articles, shows a wide range of what authors call “servo stepper motors,” “closed-loop step motors,” “hybrid servo motors” and the like. Although the names may sound similar, the performance can vary quite substantially. Most of the “closed-loop stepper motors” are not actually servo motors! 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-08-02

Moticont Expands Voice Coil Motor Series

Moticont has added a 0.750 in. (19.1 mm) diameter (smaller than a U.S. quarter) Linear Voice Coil Motor, to their expanding line of voice coil or moving coil motors.

REVOLUTIONS | 2022-08-01

Smart Solutions for Bearings, Motors and Drives

This exclusive round-up article from PTE examines the latest news and product technology involving smart bearings, motors and drives. 

REVOLUTIONS | 2022-07-25

Kollmorgen Examines Three Design Considerations that Indicate a Machine Needs a Frameless Motor

Engineers often face challenges when incorporating servo motors into a new machine design, such as choosing between a conventional housed motor or a frameless design. Kollmorgen engineers examine the components of a frameless motor and review three key design considerations that would indicate a frameless solution is the best fit for a machine.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-07-19

PTDA Hosts Industry Summit in Nashville

The Power Transmission Distributors Association (PTDA) will convene for the PTDA 2022 Industry Summit in Nashville, Tenn. on October 27-29, 2022. With more than 500 delegates in the power transmission/motion control (PT/MC) industry expected to attend, representing over 200 PTDA distributor and manufacturer companies, the Industry Summit—themed “Amp Up”—will offer cross-channel networking, shared learning and collaborative experiences. 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-07-18

NORD Provides Complete Solution for Intralogistics and Airports

NORD’s LogiDrive complete drive solution reduces planning and commissioning efforts by offering an energy efficient, standardized, and service-friendly system that is Industry 4.0 Ready. Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM) technology enables the LogiDrive system to maintain high efficiency even in partial load ranges and low speeds – making the solution especially suited towards intralogistics, warehousing, and airport applications.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-07-11

AD Completes Merger with Torbsa Limited

AD announced it has completed the merger with Torbsa Limited, a leading building supplies buying group in Canada, effective July 1, 2022.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-07-08

Bosch Rexroth Introduces Compact, Self-Contained Actuator

Bosch Rexroth has expanded its range of standardized self-contained actuators by adding the CytroMotion system solution. With the help of the new compact actuator, linear movements involving forces of up to 110 kN can be achieved in a range of machines and systems in smaller spaces, more efficiently and more sustainably. These benefits can be seen over the entire life cycle. Thanks to fully electric control, CytroMotion also makes engineering and commissioning easier. The efficient power-on-demand drive and the maintenance-free, hermetically sealed design help to save CO2 and minimize operating costs

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-07-07

Schaeffler Presents Future of Mobility Innovations at 12th Schaeffler Kolloquium

At this year’s 12th Schaeffler Kolloquium, the automotive and industrial supplier is giving around 300 customers from Europe and beyond a close-up look at the latest technologies for the future of sustainable, efficient, and comfortable mobility. The two-day event, themed “Energizing the Next Generation,” puts the spotlight on innovations from Schaeffler’s electromobility, chassis systems, and hydrogen technology operations. Held every four years, the Schaeffler Kolloquium is a worldwide customer showcase. It kicks off in Bühl, Germany, where the Automotive Technologies division is headquartered, and will be followed in the course of the year by sister events in Detroit and San Jose (United States), Changsha (China), and Yokohama (Japan).

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-06-27

Voith Expands Expertise in E-Mobility Sector

Voith is further expanding its expertise in the e-mobility sector. With the VEDS HD+, the company is presenting its first drive concept for heavy-duty trucks. Special configurations for waste collection vehicles, inner-city logistics or long-distance transport applications ensure efficient driving with every use.

REVOLUTIONS | 2022-06-27

Kollmorgen Examines Five Brushless Servo Motor Components

Servo motors are used in numerous markets to power machines, instruments, robots, and other factory automation applications. This Kollmorgen blog addresses five major elements of a conventional brushless DC servo motor: the rotor, stator, bearings, feedback and housing.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-06-22

ABB Showcases Motor Solutions at EASA 2022

Visit the ABB Booth #603 at the 2022 EASA Convention in St. Louis, June 26-28 to meet experts, view innovative solutions, and to learn why selecting the right motor is important.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-06-21

Schaeffler Showcases Innovations for Electric Motor Repair Industry at EASA 2022

Showcasing its engineering capabilities for the electric motor repair industry, global industrial and automotive supplier Schaeffler is presenting an array of advanced solutions for manufacturers and rebuilders of electric motors at the EASA 2022 Convention & Solutions Expo in St. Louis.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-06-17

NORD Offers Solutions for Food and Beverage Industry

NORD DRIVESYSTEMS offers drive solutions for food and beverage industry applications around the world. From processing to packaging systems, NORD supplies specialized solutions that are tailored to specific application needs. 

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-06-16

Sulzer Breaks Ground on Electromechanical Service Center in Texas

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

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-06-15

Mars Helicopter Team Receives Collier Trophy

The Mars helicopter team was recently awarded the Collier Trophy for being the first aircraft to achieve powered, controlled flight on another planet. NASA’s Ingenuity helicopter flies with electric motors from the Swiss company maxon, a provider of precision drives. This prestigious award was presented on June 9th in Washington D.C. by the National Aeronautic Association (NAA).

REVOLUTIONS | 2022-06-14

Helping Hands

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

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-06-14

Bosch Rexroth Introduces Gearboxes for Electric Motors

As part of its new, extensive eLION platform for the electrification of mobile working machines, Bosch Rexroth has developed spur gearboxes which vehicle manufacturers can use to unlock the full potential of new electric motors. 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-06-13

Lenze Offers New Generation of Frequency Inverters

Increasing demands for energy efficiency and plant transparency are presenting industry with continuous new challenges. Automation specialist Lenze is offering an intelligent, cost- and energy-efficient solution with its decentralized frequency inverters i-series motec. The main beneficiaries will be machine builders and operators from material handling and logistics, automotive, and consumer goods industries.  

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-06-03

Ametek Introduces Hybrid Linear Actuator

Ametek Haydon Kerk Pittman, a business unit of Ametek, is pleased to announce the availability of its new 43000 Max Series Size 17 single- and double-stack hybrid linear actuators.

REVOLUTIONS | 2022-06-03

Mass Market Electrification

Charging power. Infrastructure. Longer battery life. Every time the industry comes together for the CTI Symposium, we get a clearer picture of the technology development toward our electric future.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-06-01

NORD Delivers Drive Technology for Warehouse Logistics

Automated storage systems are commonly used in warehouses as they offer high storage density and use agile stacker cranes for rapid retrieval and storage of goods. NORD’s solutions for these systems feature drives with precise positioning, high efficiency, compact design, and quiet operation.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-05-31

Sumitomo Cyclo Drive Germany Wins Hermes Award at Hannover Messe

This year saw the Hermes Award jury at Hannover Messe, chaired by Prof. Dr.-Ing. Reimund Neugebauer, president of the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft, award a product ideally suited for applications in the rapidly growing robotics market. The award-winning TUAKA product is a fully integrated drive. New features include the gear unit, the motor and the driver with safety functions. Thanks to the product's sensor technology and thermal management, it is suitable for high-precision, sensitive applications in service robotics as well as for interaction with humans.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-05-27

Altra Launches Enhanced Virtual Trade Show Exhibit Booth

Altra has recently enhanced the scope and functionality of its virtual exhibit booth. The immersive and interactive trade show environment provides visitors around the world with convenient 24/7 access to browse the extensive portfolio of motion control and power transmission products offered by Altra’s 26 global brands.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-05-26

Faulhaber Integrates Subsidiary PDT

Effective April 1, 2022, Dr. Fritz Faulhaber GmbH integrates subsidiary PDT Präzisionsdrehteile GmbH from Nürtingen and thereby welcomes 34 new specialists to the Schönaich location. Thanks to this strategically planned step, Faulhaber can, with a machining center of its own, respond more quickly to individual requests and expands competencies in the area of machining production.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-05-24

JIE USA Inc. Introduces 3D CAD Configurator

JIE USA has released a 3D CAD gearbox and gearmotor configurator to help engineers choose motors and drives on-demand. The online tool enables engineers to identify the correct product for their design or application based on custom parameters and deliver the CAD model or PDF datasheet they need to do their job efficiently.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-05-23

ABB Offers Digital Appraisal Service

A new digital service from ABB is enabling industrial operators to maximize energy efficiency and boost sustainability by identifying motor-driven equipment in their facilities with the best energy-saving potential. The ABB Ability Digital Powertrain Energy Appraisal service draws on data measured from fleets of digitally connected electric motors and variable frequency drives (VFDs) to show where and how much energy can be saved by upgrading to the latest high-efficiency technologies. Industrial operators can then make data-driven decisions when prioritizing investments. 

REVOLUTIONS | 2022-05-23

Automate 2022 Preview

The latest trends and emerging technologies in areas like robotics, automation, mechatronics and motion control will be on-hand at Automate 2022 in Detroit. The following is a preview of some of the products that will be available on the show floor in June: 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-05-20

Bonfiglioli Introduces DGM Modular Decentralized Inverter Series

The new decentralized inverter series DGM Modular from Bonfiglioli is dedicated for asynchronous and synchronous reluctance motor control. Thanks to its various features and options our high-level performance solution is perfect for packaging, logistics, material handling, food and beverage and pumps sectors. All sizes of the DGM are characterized by high performance and safety features.

REVOLUTIONS | 2022-05-17

Interoperability: What it is, and why it matters in the age of automation

E-commerce consumers expect goods to be delivered faster and more flexibly than was the case just a couple of years ago. Organizations, retailers, and their warehouse service providers therefore need to find new ways to move, store, and dispatch goods with agility and accuracy. Add the widespread shortage of labor and you have an indisputable case for automated solutions to meet the myriad of challenges. Kollmorgen examines interoperability in the age of automation. 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-05-16

NORD Presents Airport Technology at AAAE 2022

NORD DRIVESYSTEMS is bringing their future-ready drive solutions to the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) Conference and Exhibition June 5th – 8th in Seattle, Washington. NORD delivers drive solutions for every application in baggage handling systems and their innovative products are utilized throughout airports worldwide.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-05-12

Black Bruin Offers Hydraulic Technologies at IFAT 2022

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

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-05-10

PTDA Foundation Now Accepting Nominations for 2022 Leadership Awards

The PTDA Foundation is seeking nominations for its Wendy B. McDonald Woman of the Year Award and Robert (Bob) K. Callahan Future Leaders Award, respectively. As the charitable arm of the Power Transmission Distributors Association, the PTDA Foundation champions education, outreach and research initiatives relevant to the power transmission/motion control (PT/MC) industry that enhance the knowledge and/or professionalism and productivity for industry stakeholders.  

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-05-09

Kollmorgen TMB2G Servomotor Series On-Hand at Automate 2022

Kollmorgen will exhibit their next-generation TBM2G series of frameless servomotors at the 2022 Automate Show, June 6 - 9, in Detroit, MI. Kollmorgen will also speak on the topic of Improving Robot Efficiency Through Permanent Magnet Motor Design and Selection at the breakout session on the afternoon of June 8. 

REVOLUTIONS | 2022-05-09

The Constant Push for Lubrication and Seal Technology Upgrades

The range and flexibility of lubrication and sealing technologies continues to expand as companies look to scale down production times while increasing productivity. The industry is focused on environmental impact, automation and compact systems. Here’s just a few of the latest technologies in the industrial market: 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-05-06

Omni Electric Pump Drive Suited for Hybrid Equipment Builders

Omni Powertrain Technologies has released information about its new electrohydraulic pump combination. The unit was developed for low voltage mobile applications and is ideally suited for the needs of hybrid equipment builders facing spatial constraints. 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-05-05

Moticont Offers Clean, Quiet and Efficient Voice Coil Actuator

A high force-to-size ratio is just one of the many features of Moticont’s GVCM-051-089-02 Linear Voice Coil Actuator with Built-in Bearing. The actuator applies up to 66.4 N (14.9 lbs.) of continuous force and 210 N (47.2 lbs.) of peak force.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-05-04

Schaeffler Receives BSA Innovation Award

Global industrial and automotive supplier Schaeffler was honored by the Bearing Specialists Association (BSA) with the 2021 “Bearing Manufacturer Excellence of Innovation in Product Design Award” for its breakthrough OPTIME condition monitoring device.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-05-03

AD Appoints Fernandez President of Electrical and Industrial Business Unit

AD is pleased to announce that Marisol Fernandez will be returning to the company as president of its Electrical and Industrial Business Unit, effective June 8, 2022.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-04-29

OES Motion Control System Complements Multi-Axis Stages

The Figaro series is a motion control system introduced to complement Optimal Engineering Systems’ growing line of single and multi-axis positioning stages. The Figaro series is an easy-to-use, plug-and-play, cost effective solution motion controller.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-04-29

PT WORK Force Expands 2022 Resources

The PTDA Foundation, through its PT WORK Force initiative, provides programs and resources to help power transmission/motion control (PT/MC) employers address ever-escalating issues surrounding recruitment and retention.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-04-28

Heidenhain Introduces Encoders for Small Motors

With the introduction of the PressFit rotary encoders from Heidenhain, small-motor manufacturers finally have a better solution for incorporating automated mounting for feedback devices. This new ExI 11xx encoder series features a unique compact design that allows fast and simple mounting by press-fitting into a motor housing while still allowing surrounding space for cables and seals.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-04-26

Bosch Rexroth Offers Drive and Motor Solutions at OTC 2022

Bosch Rexroth will join offshore and marine technology experts to showcase the company’s latest innovations at OTC 2022 on May 2-5 in Houston. Located at Booth #2306, Rexroth and Hägglunds displays will show a range of products and solutions that support the offshore technology sector.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-04-25

Framo Morat and Heinzmann Collaborate on Wheel Hub Motor

The drive system manufacturer Heinzmann has introduced a new wheel hub motor with integrated transmission, which was developed in close collaboration with Framo Morat. The compact, high-performance drive provides ensures efficient operation in automated guided vehicles (AGV) and autonomous mobile robots (AMR). 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-04-22

Mayr Power Transmission Introduces Electromagnetic Safety Brakes for Linear Movements

The new electromagnetic linear brake ROBA-linearstop from Mayr Power Transmission offers a fail-safe system with high holding forces, which can also brake dynamically and provide short switching times.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-04-22

Piezo Motion and MTG Announce Partnership

Piezo Motion, a Brain Scientific company, and Micro Technology Group (MTG) recently announced a partnership. Piezo Motion is a developer and manufacturer of automation technology. MTG, headquartered in Mansfield, Massachusetts, is a business development company providing technical marketing and sales services for leading manufacturers.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-04-21

Kollmorgen Announces TBM2G Motor Series

Kollmorgen has announced the new TBM2G series of frameless servomotors, introducing features that simplify the design of collaborative, surgical, aerospace and defense and other robots while delivering optimal performance in a lighter, more compact package. These new motors will complement Kollmorgen’s existing TBM and KBM series of frameless motors. 

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-04-19

Sulzer Expands Service Center

Sulzer has begun the construction of an all-new 7,200 sq. ft. expansion to its Baton Rouge Service Center in Louisiana. 

REVOLUTIONS | 2022-04-18

LogiMat 2022 Offers Motion Control and Robotic Technologies

LogiMat, May 31 - June 2 in Stuttgart, Germany, provides attendees with a comprehensive review of all the main themes in the logistics sector, from procurement to production and deliveries.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-04-18

Warner Electric Develops Material Solution for Brakes

Warner Electric has developed custom brake friction material that provides consistent performance despite extreme temperature variance and the effects of moisture.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-04-15

Dunkermotoren Updates Product Portfolio

Dunkermotoren’s product portfolio includes brushless and brushed DC motors up to 5 kW, AC motors and linear systems. Dunkermotoren incorporates a modular system to combine their motors with planetary and right-angle gearboxes, encoders, brakes and integrated or external electronics into a single package. This allows for configurable solution for your application. 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-04-13

SKF Chocks Allow for Easy Mounting and Improve Rotating Equipment Performance

SKF has developed a new range of adjustable chocks with higher load capacity and an increased adjustment range. The chocks can be used in many industries, including food and beverage, pulp and paper, rail, marine, offshore, agriculture and power generation. They are typically found in equipment such as gas, diesel and LNG engines, generators, compressors, electric motors and gearboxes.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-04-12

Ametek Expands IDEA Motor Series

Ametek Haydon Kerk Pittman (HKP), a business unit of Ametek, has announced a new size in its IDEA Motor series of brushless DC motors: 57 mm. This EC057B joins the 42 mm EC042B product introduced in 2019 and enhances an already popular line of motors with integrated, programmable drives.

FEATURE ARTICLES | 2022-04-12

Breaking the 4th Industrial Wall

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

FEATURE ARTICLES | 2022-04-12

The Flexibility Factor

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.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-04-06

ABB Upgrades HDP Motors

ABB has upgraded its extensive range of High Dynamic Performance (HDP) induction motors. This creates new opportunities for machine-building OEMs seeking motor and drive solutions with dynamic response and high-power density. The motors are typically used in plastic and rubber extrusion, injection molding, winders, lifting, conveyors, test benches and machine tools.

REVOLUTIONS | 2022-04-04

What's New in Motor Technology?

New communication features, European partnerships and high-performance stepper motors underline PTE's recent motor news coverage. Companies like Nidec Servo Corporation, Piezo Motion and Faulhaber are providing motor precision and reliability requirements for a wide variety of applications. 

VIDEO | 2022-03-21

Regal Rexnord Motor Minute: Why Do Direct Drive Motor Shafts Have a Flat Side?

Regal Rexnord Motor Minute technical tips provide you with information to enhance your motor knowledge. Supplied in a one minute or so video format giving you the ability to learn on the go, on a break, or whenever you have a minute to learn. This Motor Minute technical tip provides details on why direct drive motor shafts have a flat side.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-03-17

Dodge Industrial Announces New President

Dodge Industrial, Inc. has named David Gilbert as its new president effective immediately. Gilbert joined Dodge nearly 20 years ago and is an experienced manufacturing and operations management leader with proven knowledge and demonstrated results in the industrial automation industry.
PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-03-11

Portescap Offers Miniature Motor Solutions at MD&M West 2022

Portescap demonstrates a wide variety of miniature medical motor technologies at MD&M West 2022.

FEATURE ARTICLES | 2022-03-10

Transforming the Drivetrain

The mobile machine market encompasses equipment supporting the movement of materials and components. This includes agricultural machinery, construction vehicles, municipal machinery, etc. These non-road mobile vehicles—tractors, cranes, forklifts and material handling equipment—often require personalized solutions focused on machine safety, automation and electrification. 
Manufacturers today are merely scratching the surface when designing electric drive equipment for these challenging environmental applications.

REVOLUTIONS | 2022-02-17

Delivering Next Generation e-Mobility Motor and Drive Solutions

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

...
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2022-02-01

Improve Thermal Performance for Ironless Brush DC and Brushless DC Motors

Designers of motor-driven systems must account for thermal issues that can hinder a system's performance and efficiency.
REVOLUTIONS | 2022-01-31

Gearmotors: The Art of Precision and Reliability

High performance, high precision and component compatibility top the list of gearmotor trends in our product-roundup for 2022. These products can b...
REVOLUTIONS | 2021-12-09

The Art of the Balance

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

Influence of the Load-Dependent Center Distance

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

Open Loop Step Motor Error Sources - What Closing the Loop Corrects

A look at several Two-Phase Hybrid Step Motors and their dominant error sources, and comment on how the errors are overcome by true servo operation of these motors.
REVOLUTIONS | 2021-11-12

Regal Rexnord Enhances Industrial Powertrain Capabilities

The Regal electromechanical powertrain offering encompasses a broad range of Regal-produced components (e.g., motors, speed reducers, gearing, coup...
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2021-10-01

In the Fast Lane with the FVA-Workbench: Formula Student Team KA-RaceIng

Cutting-Edge gearbox design software.

TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2021-10-01

Linear Motion Components Take Flight in Aerospace and Defense Industry

Key advantages of linear motion components in aerospace applications.
REVOLUTIONS | 2021-09-27

The Packaging Perspective 2021

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

Another Thought: Brace for the Impact of The Washington Solution to Fix Climate Change

How it impacts our industries.
REVOLUTIONS | 2021-08-19

Value-Driven Condition Monitoring

Schaeffler's OPTIME Improves the Reliability of Rotating Equipment

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

Design Reviews - What to Review and When

Try to gain as much advantage as possible when you do design reviews; they can result in greatly improved designs and can cut multiple iterations out of the process.
REVOLUTIONS | 2021-07-16

The Sustainable Shop Floor

Energy from renewable sources? Natural resource conservation? Reduction in pollution and waste? Energy efficient components? Many talk a good game ...
POWER PLAY | 2021-06-01

History-Making Micromotors on Mars!

Helicopter Makes Maiden Voyage Across the Red Planet with Help from Maxon
REVOLUTIONS | 2021-04-09

Hannover Messe 2021: Industrial Transformation

The show must go on. And though we're extremely disappointed to not spend the week in Germany taking in the latest and greatest manufacturing techn...
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2021-04-01

Industry News

The complete Industry News section from the April 2021 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
REVOLUTIONS | 2021-03-17

A Cut Above the Rest

Micro motors put the power in pruning

Pruning is one of the most demanding jobs in the viticulture and horticulture industries. When done...
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2021-03-01

Industry News

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

The Digital Experience with Regal Beloit

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

High-Power Density Motors

On the tradeoffs between power density, efficiency and cost for high-performance, electric motors in choosing the most applicable technology for a specific application.
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2021-02-01

Industry News

The complete Industry News section from the February 2021 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
| 2021-01-21

Smart Moves with Bosch Rexroth

Extrusion press hydraulics upgrade uses phased approach to improve results

The extrusion press is one of today’s most valuable and hardwo...
| 2020-11-24

Stainless Steel Powertrains Provide Peace of Mind

Hardly a day passes without a new FDA recall of some food product as the number of Americans falling ill from food contamination infections continu...
| 2020-10-28

A Look at Hannover Messe Digital Days

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

2020 and Beyond with Bonfiglioli

Company offers new geared motor platform while navigating unusual business environment

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

Keeping Drives Electrically Quiet: Ferrites, Shielding and Grounding

Motion control systems often combine high power drive signals in close proximity (or even within the same cable) with lower level signals, like encoders. You will often see ferrite beads added around cables; their effectiveness in minimizing noise is greatly affected by how they are deployed. This involves which signals are grouped, what are the drive characteristics, and how shielding and grounding are handled in the system.
POWER PLAY | 2020-10-01

Mechanical Wonders of All Sizes

The industrial arts of mechanical engineering are all around us and seen in many forms and technologies. Of greatest interest is how these wonders are designed, constructed and used. From the smallest home appliance to the behemoths used for outsize building and excavation projects.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2020-09-01

Various Coil Configurations Used in Coreless Motors

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

Hybrid Transverse Flux Magnetic Motors - How to Measure Parameters

These versatile, low-cost and high-torque motors may be used open loop or as full servos - and several levels in between. The motor stator laminate designs divide these motors into those optimized for full stepping, and those optimized for micro stepping and servo operation. These differences can be easily measured with basic meters and oscilloscopes. Motor to motor variations can also be easily measured, and motor inductance at nominal speed and current can also be determined.
POWER PLAY | 2020-09-01

Motors in Space

Components like motors, bearings and drives are subject to harsh environments on Earth, but they must be at the top of their game to enjoy space travel. Recent applications from Maxon Motors (Return to Mars) and the University of Michigan (Robotic Legs) illustrate the incredible requirements it takes to handle applications in space and how these components can be utilized here on Earth.
| 2020-08-12

I-MAK Examines Causes of Gearbox Failure

In a world of optimization and digitization where factories are trying to reduce costs and downtime, the demand for identification of basic gearbox...
PRODUCT NEWS | 2020-08-01

Product News

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

Centralized vs. Decentralized: Choosing the Right Type of Motor Control System

Are you looking for one simple formula to help you choose between centralized and decentralized motor control? Unfortunately, such a formula does not exist. However, evaluating the overall size of the system, comparing labor and material costs, and maintaining flexibility can help guide engineers in the right direction.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2020-08-01

Closing the Loop around a Transverse Flux Hybrid Step Motor

Transverse magnetic flux motors -- also known as step motors -- become Hybrid Servos when you operate them closed loop. This is the same transformation that happens between running a 3-phase synchronous motor from line voltage as opposed to running it closed loop as a brushless servo. In the case of hybrid motors, there are many degrees of what is advertised as "closed loop," and thus significant differences in the performance improvements seen.
| 2020-07-17

Force Control Oil Shear Crane Brake Solves Maintenance Headache

Brake Upgrade Fixes Manufacturing Challenges at SAF

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

KEB America Introduces High Capacity Spring-Set Load Brakes

KEB America has introduced their new High Capacity Load brake.  The brakes use a spring-set (power-off) design and are electrically released. 
| 2020-06-08

Shrink Your Start-to-Finish Time

Boosting Productivity in Gearbox Design with Siemens Digital

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

A Little Peace of Mind

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

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

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

Engineering Showcase - Motors

This special advertising section features Motors manufacturers.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2020-06-01

Transverse Magnet Flux AKA Hybrid Step Motor Driver Techniques

The transverse flux permanent magnet motor -- also known as a hybrid step motor or hybrid servo motor -- has a wide range of performances, depending upon how you drive these motors, and whether you operate them in open loop or one of the many variants of closed loop methods you use. In this third installment we will cover some of the many ways to drive these motors, as well as how these choices affect the performance of these motors.
| 2020-04-29

The Latest in E-Mobility Technologies

This sidebar examines some of the latest E-Mobility products and technologies from companies like Schaeffler, Eaton and Dana. Check out the full ar...
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2020-04-01

Dynamic Performance

PTE Examines Gearmotor and Gear Drive Technology
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2020-04-01

Navigating the New Normal

Power Transmission component suppliers discuss COVID-19 Threat and how their companies are responding to keep the supply chain connected.
| 2020-03-13

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

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

Value-Driven

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

Power - and Sand - to the People

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

Hybrid Transverse Magnetic Flux Motors - AKA Stepper Motors and Hybrid Servos

This is the first of a series of articles on permanent magnet transverse magnetic flux motors - AKA step motors. These articles will be covering the development history and the various drive technologies used with these motors - both open and closed loop.
| 2020-02-12

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

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

A Mechatronic State of Mind

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

Integration Nation

Gearmotors handle harsh environments with digitalization, customization and improved service life.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2020-02-01

Creature Comfort

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

Motor Sizing Unusual Loads

One of the fun parts of the motion industry is involvement in popular movies! Motor specifications can be a bit rough: "I need to spin a 120-pound actor (and chair) 180 degrees in one-half second. He will be sitting up-right."
| 2020-01-23

Motor Sizing for Unusual Loads

One of the fun parts of the motion industry is involvement in popular movies! Motor specifications can be a bit rough: “I need to spin a 120-pound ...
| 2020-01-14

Signs of a Noisy Reference - Using Successive Approximation ADCs

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

Done-In-One Roller Bearing Measurement Solution

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PRODUCT NEWS | 2019-12-01

Product News

The complete Product News section from the December 2019 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2019-12-01

Gearmotor Paint Coatings

The following article explains the commonly used paint components and methods within the gearmotor industry, with a focus on electrodeposition coating (E-Coat). These processes will be described in general, with a closer examination of the E-Coat applications steps. Some pros and cons of each method will be presented along with comparative test results showing the benefits of E-Coat.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2019-12-01

Cost-Effective, High-Performing Motors without Neodymium Magnets - Part II

In Part I we explored various motor technologies used today for industrial and traction motor design. Here in Part II we will explore another motor option: reluctance motors.
| 2019-11-08

Vesconite Supplies Bushings for Record-Breaking Miniature Steam Train

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

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

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

FEATURE ARTICLES | 2019-10-01

Saving Money with High-Efficiency Gearmotors

Standing in a factory or a warehouse, you're bound to notice machinery, whether it's a conveyor system that winds across the floor or large fans that hang from the ceiling. You may even notice automated guided vehicles or autonomous mobile robots carrying parts, driving themselves from one section of the building to another. These machines are good candidates for using high-efficiency gearmotors, especially if they're expected to run for long stretches at a time. If they aren't using high-efficiency gearmotors, then they may be costing more money than they should.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2019-10-01

Engineering Showcase - Gearmotors

Special advertising section from the October 2019 issue of Gear Technology.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2019-10-01

Just Right Lubrication

Automatic lubrication systems are getting smarter, easier to use and pushing condition monitoring into the future.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2019-10-01

Motors without Rare-Earth Magnets: What Are the Options

Lower-cost motor technologies exist that can be an attractive alternative to neo-based BL PM motors - and are not subject to unpredictable supply chains
POWER PLAY | 2019-09-01

Picking and Placing with Flexible Fingers

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

The 6 Latest Trends in Direct Drive Motor Technology

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

Using Couplings to Reduce Downtime

Downtime, downtime, downtime. When it's planned, it's bearable. When it's not, it's not. To maintain machinery, planned downtime is necessary. To fix broken equipment, unplanned downtime is excruciating, especially when your factory is running closer and closer to full capacity.
| 2019-06-18

Getting Your Hands on Smart Tools

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

Morgan Advanced Materials Examines Wind Turbine Mechanics

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

The Electric Evolution

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

Motor Technology Makeover

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

Motor Design for Aerospace Applications

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

Cars with Jet Engines

In the late 1940s, the U.S. auto industry started an exciting experiment and spent decades on it. One result came in '63, when the Turbine was introduced by Chrysler Corp., now a part of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA). In appearance, the two-door, four-passenger car looked like a regular car, but it wasn't. Under its sleek shell, the car had a jet engine.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2019-04-01

Deep-Sea Microbe Research

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

Hands-Free Driving in the 1950s

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

Troubleshooting: Use ALL of Your Senses

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

Hannover Messe 2.0

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

Faulhaber Assists with Deep-Sea Microbe Research

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

Insider's Guide to Automate 2019 and Promat

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

Calendar

The complete technical calendar from the March 2019 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
| 2019-02-04

Construction Time Again

Bauma 2019 Examines Sustainability, Digitization and Energy Efficiency

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

Improperly Testing Belt Tension Can Easily Damage Small Motors

Most of us want to just instinctively squeeze a belt between a pair of pulleys to test the belt tension. What is not as instinctive is just how much force such a procedure can put on the shaft -- often significantly past the manufacturer's rated limits for small motors. This can cause damage to both the shaft and the bearings.
| 2019-01-28

Servo Needs a Solid Footing

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

Improperly Testing Belt Tension Can Easily Damage Small Motors

Donald P. Labriola II, president and founder of QuickSilver Controls, Inc. Most of us want to just instinctively squeeze a belt between a pair o...
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2018-12-01

2018 PTE Buyers Guide

Our comprehensive annual directory of suppliers puts all the mechanical components you need right at your fingertips.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2018-12-01

Integrated Hybrid Servo Motors vs. Standard Integrated Servo Motors

Different motor types favor different application areas. No single style has advantages in all application spaces. Direct drive applications favor hybrid servos while high-speed, geared down applications tend to favor the conventional servo motors.
| 2018-11-27

SPS IPC Drives 2018

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

Chain-Stretch Monitoring System Prevents Plant Downtime

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

Cooling Tower Components: Pros and Cons

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

Gearmotors Pulling, Pushing and Controlling Their Weight

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

Step vs. Servo - Selecting the Best

Over the many years, there have been many technical papers and articles about which motor is the best. The short and sweet answer is - let's talk about the application. More recently a number of papers and articles have appeared that compared each motor's advantages and disadvantages in generic or specific terms. Many times, the methods used to drive and control these motors are not completely described due to the many control schemes available for use. A few articles focus on just the open loop step motor and the closed loop servo motor advantages and disadvantages in a laundry list format. This article is attempting to "drill down" into the reasons why and to describe how it is done.
EVENTS | 2018-10-01

Calendar

The complete technical Calendar from the October 2018 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
PRODUCT NEWS | 2018-09-28

KEB America Releases Washdown Servomotors for Industrial Applications

KEB America announces the release of the new STEEL IT epoxy coating for servomotors. When motors are used in applications that are exposed to moisture and chemicals - such as food and beverage processing - they require special design considerations to ensure they will withstand the environment. The new STEEL IT epoxy coating option from KEB America provides a washdown servomotor with many of the benefits of a stainless-steel motor, but at a fraction of the cost.
| 2018-09-25

Future of E-Mobility

Schaeffler Touts System Solutions and Electrification at Detroit Symposium

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| 2018-09-17

Hannover Messe USA: What We Learned

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

Motor Insight: Anatomy of a Drone

The skies are full of them in 2018 - drones flying around amusement parks, job sites and even your own backyard. There are drone racing leagues on ESPN, drones capturing wide angle shots over film locations and government drones keeping a bird's eye view on the Mexican/America border.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2018-08-01

The Clean Cut

JBT Corporation benefits from Kollmorgen Hygienic motor design in food and beverage application.
| 2018-07-20

ABM Supplies AC Induction Motors for Autonomous Mobility

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

Evolution of Cooling Tower Gearboxes

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

Product News

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

A Mechanical Healthcare Plan

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

Keeping the Lights on - Machine Monitoring Basics

As manufacturers continually search for ways to cut costs and increase ROI, machine monitoring and predictive maintenance (PdM) solutions are an increasingly cost-effective way for plants and factories to help reduce process downtime.
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2018-06-01

KEB America Announces ISO 9001:2015 Certification

KEB America has announced the ISO 9001:2015 certification of their production facility, located in Shakopee, Minnesota. 
| 2018-05-22

Automotive: On the Road to Disruptive Technology

The future of the automotive industry looks complicated. Urbanization, energy regulations, the electrification of vehicles, autonomous driving and ...
| 2018-04-30

What is a Voice Coil Actuator?

A voice coil actuator, also known as a non-commutated DC linear actuator, is a type of direct drive linear motor. The name “voice coil” comes from ...
| 2018-04-19

The Gizmo Society

It is hard these days to find any device that is not IoT-compatible or WiFi-connected. I recently had a new well pump installed that requires an iP...
| 2018-04-02

Performance Demands of Motion Control Applications

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

Product News

New servo drives, gear pumps, stepper motors and more.
EVENTS | 2018-04-01

Momentum in Wind Power

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

It's a Jungle Out There

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

Fish Farming Company Saves Energy with Motor Upgrade

A Denmark-based specialist in aquafeed production has replaced an aging, damaged DC motor on it...
| 2018-03-13

Vesconite Supports Airboats for African Ecotourism

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

Smarter Machines Need Smarter Components

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

Mechanical Motion in Tight Spaces

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

Baldor Motor Basics Part 11

Explosion-Proof Motors in Division 2 Areas and DC Drive Fundamentals
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2018-03-01

Industry News

The complete Industry News section from the March 2018 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
PRODUCT NEWS | 2018-02-23

KEB America Offers Safety Solutions for Automation Systems

KEB America, Inc. announces the release of their latest safety automation products for the North American market. Safety PLC, Safe I/O mo...
| 2018-02-20

Smarter Mechatronics

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

Framo Morat and Dunkermotoren Produce Drive Systems for AGVs

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

Efficiency of Design

Energy efficiency is for more than just motors. Here are some mechatronics companies making sure you get more bang for your buck when it comes to your power bill.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2018-02-01

Emerging Motor Technologies

Copper's continuing role in energy-efficient motor development.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2018-02-01

How to Select Motors for Hazardous Locations - Baldor Motor Basics Part 10

Failure to specify the proper motor for use in a hazardous location can have serious consequences - lost production, extensive property damage, and even loss of human life. Selection of the proper motor requires an understanding of Underwriters Laboratories' (UL) and National Electrical Code (NEC) class, group and division designations and the T code letters.
| 2018-01-18

Stober Examines Manufacturing Infrastructure Updates

Updating your shop floor with new equipment and personnel is standard trade magazine fodder today—and for obvious reasons. Any feasible upgrades ca...
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2017-12-01

Force Control Assists in Helicopter Transmission Overhaul

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

Baldor Motor Basics - Part 9

Amps, Watts, Power Factor and Efficiency; Approximate Load Data from Amperage Readings; Power Factor Correction on Single-Induction Motors.
| 2017-11-28

A Look at Belt, Chain and Gear Drive Technology

By Jack Warner The need for producing more energy increases with our rising need for commercial, industrial, and residential space. In North Ame...
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2017-10-01

Familiar Goals, New Solutions

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

Baldor Motor Basics: Premium Efficiency Motors

Conservation through lighting alterations using different bulbs, ballasts and light sources is well understood and easy to achieve. The use of improved efficiency three phase induction motors has not been as accepted. There are a number of reasons why conservation efforts with motors have not been as popular.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2017-09-01

Gear Expo 2017 Showstoppers

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

Product News

The complete Product News section from the September 2017 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2017-09-01

The Reliability of Sewer Robots

Faulhaber Provides Motor Technology for Pipe Renovation Projects
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2017-09-01

Motors and Mechatronics - Moving to a Higher Plane

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

Baldor Motor Basics: Electric Motors and Power Systems and Electric Motors and Voltage

Part 1: There seems to be a lot of confusion about the voltage standards for motors and why they are structured the way they are. Part 2: The effect of low voltage on electric motors is pretty widely known and understood, but the effect of high voltage on motors is frequently misunderstood.
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2017-09-01

Industry News

The complete Industry News section from the September 2017 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2017-08-01

Six Key Elements of Gearmotor Optimization

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

Baldor Motor Basics: Factors that Determine Industrial Electric Bills

A good deal of confusion exists regarding the factors that determine an industrial electric bill. The following information is presented to help sort out the various items on which billing is based, and to offer suggestions on measures to help control and reduce electric utility bills.
| 2017-07-06

Cost Rules

The motor business is seeing some new technology, and it’s all about getting more bang for your buck. “In America, cost still rules.” ...
| 2017-06-20

The Times, They Are Changing

Occasionally in conversation you make a reference to technology and then realize that you are old. I could talk about the first microprocessors, va...
PUBLISHER'S PAGE | 2017-06-01

Moving in the Right Direction

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

Product News

The complete Product News section from the June 2017 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2017-06-01

Miniature Motion Solutions

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

Guide to V-Belt Selection and Replacement

V-belts look like relatively benign and simple pieces of equipment. They're basically a glorified rubber band, right? Need a replacement? Just measure the top width and circumference, find another belt with the same dimensions, and slap it on the drive. There's only one problem: that approach is about as wrong as you can get.

TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2017-06-01

Baldor Basics: Applications

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

How to Select a DC Motor: Coreless and Iron Core Brushed DC Motors

DC motors possess linear relationships that allow for very predictable operation. For instance, if enough voltage is applied across the terminals of a DC motor, the output shaft will spin at a rate proportional to that applied voltage. You can take the ratio of the applied voltage over the rated voltage and multiply that number by the no load speed and get the running speed.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2017-06-01

Vibration Analysis Goes Mainstream

Using vibration analysis to evaluate machine health has many benefits, and with advances in sensor, recording, and analysis technology, vibration analysis is now within the reach of even small organizations.
| 2017-05-09

Hannover Messe: A New Perspective in Manufacturing

The rumors are absolutely true. The factory floor is changing at an incredible pace and the digitalization of manufacturing systems (Big data, Indu...
| 2017-04-17

Integrated Industry at Hannover 2017

Hannover Messe 2017 will demonstrate how companies with limited resources can pinpoint and harness the power of digitalization. This year's trade f...
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2017-04-01

Meet Norm Parker - Bearings Blogger

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

Baldor Basics: Understanding Torque

In the process of applying industrial drive products, we occasionally are misled into believing that we are applying horsepower. The real driving force is not horsepower - it is torque. This paper is developed to impart a deeper understanding of torque, its relationship to horsepower, and the types of loads we most frequently encounter.
| 2017-03-14

Innovations at IFPE 2017

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

Servo Loop Tuning: A Practical Approach

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

Why Direct Drive

In today's highly competitive world, the better someone understands the advantages and benefits of direct drive technology, then the more they will have an advantage in machine building, giving them an edge over their competition.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2017-03-01

Saving Time with Auto-Tuning Drives

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

Baldor Basics: Motors

This issue our Baldor Basics series continues with the topics of motor temperature ratings and metric motors.
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2017-03-01

Industry News

The complete Industry News section from the March 2017 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
| 2017-02-28

When Things Get Hot

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

Avoiding Bearings "Made in Wherever"

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

Baldor Basics: Motors

This issue we cover frame sizes and two-speed motors in our continuing series of articles, courtesy of Baldor Electric, dedicated to motor basics.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2017-02-01

Lightweight, Highly Efficient Drive System

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

Industry News

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

Now That Is Smart Manufacturing!

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

Changing Technologies, Changing Perspectives

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

| 2017-01-17

The Latest in Gearmotors

Nord Clincher Gear Units Maintain Equipment in Severe Applications
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2016-12-01

Baldor Basics: Motors

Beginning with this initial installment , and with the gracious permission of ABB/Baldor Electric, we are pleased to announce the beginning of a new series -- Baldor Basics: Motors. This is a collection of basicsdriven, motor-intensive articles authored by former Baldor engineer Edward Cowern, PE, a respected name by many in the electric motor industry. During his tenure at Baldor, Cowern - now enjoying his retirement - was tasked with producing a number of motor- and basics-related tutorials, primarily in response to a steady flow of customer questions regarding motors. Today's customers continue to ask questions and seek answers to address their various motor-related issues. As with Cowern's original introduction to the series, we hope you find these articles useful and would appreciate any comments or thoughts you might have for future improvements, corrections or topics.
| 2016-11-29

A Virtual Reality

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

SPS IPC Drives 2016 Review

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

Industrial Innovation at Pack Expo 2016

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

Factoring In the Power Factor

Recently our customers have indicated a great concern over power factors when starting new development projects for higher-efficiency motors. Wh...
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2016-10-01

Taking Aim at Conveyor Systems

It's no secret that conveyor systems are the primary market for gearmotors, and so it shouldn't be much of a surprise that gearmotor manufacturers are looking for ways to cater to that market's needs. From Brother's new VFDs to Siemens' Simotics S-1FG1, a lot of the new solutions in the industry have their own unique quirks, but all fall into a few common veins.
BEARING BRIEFS | 2016-10-01

Linear Motors

When the need arises for linear motion or positioning, there are many choices. One can use an Acme screw, ball screw, rack & pinion, or belts. The cost of a linear motor solution is generally greater than a mechanical linear product, but when one needs highly accurate, repeatable, high-speed motion, then the answer may be a linear motor.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2016-10-01

How Does An Electric Motor Work

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

Product News

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

Mining for Solutions

Increasing pressure on many fronts is compelling mine operators to thoroughly examine every phase of their operations. Fluctuating demand that whipsaws mineral prices, government-imposed environmental regulations and rising operating costs related to maintenance downtime all pose serious challenges for the mining sector. Add pressure from customers and stakeholders for more sustainable operations as well as union demands for higher wages, and you have a scenario that requires mine operators to exercise every possible option to achieve more efficient operations.
POWER PLAY | 2016-09-01

Mind Sport

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

Custom or Off-the-Shelf?

  Today I want to follow up on a discussion of an often debated topic: do you want a custom motor or should you buy a standard (stock) moto...
| 2016-08-09

IMTS 2016 First Look

Matthew Jaster, Senior Editor Because the general metalworking industry can’t have all the fun in Chicago this September, here’s a quick guide t...
PRODUCT NEWS | 2016-08-01

Product News

News about industry products.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2016-08-01

IMTS 2016 Booth Preview

A nose-in-the-tent peek at the booths featuring mechanical motion components.
| 2016-06-14

The Evolution of Connectivity

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

The Driving Force

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

Closer to the Sun

Without the sun, there would be no Earth and no life. However, our knowledge about our home star is still very limited. This is about to change. In 2018, the European Space Agency (ESA) will send its Solar Orbiter into space, equipped with a thick heat shield.
| 2016-05-06

The Reluctance Force We Are Reluctant to Use

Almost daily I’m asked about the switched reluctance motor (SRM) — a motor that was invented more than 100 years ago. But only in the 1980s did it ...
| 2016-04-12

You Need an Electric Motor for Your Application — Which One Do You Choose?

Often I get asked the generic question — “Which motor should I use?” But the answer is not quick or easy. The proper choice of the motor may ...
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2016-04-01

Nasa Glenn Research Center - A Look Back

In 1941, the federal Aircraft Engine Research Laboratory set up shop in Cleveland, Ohio. This year, and several name changes later, what is now the NASA Glenn Research Center celebrates its 75th anniversary. As part of the year-long festivities, Glenn’s adjunct Lewis Field main campus will be open to the public May 21 and 22, and Plum Brook Station in Sandusky, Ohio will hold its open house June 11 and 12.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2016-03-01

Sum of the Parts

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

Reducing Food Processing Plant Energy Costs

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

Motor Management Best Practices Part 3

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

Industry News

News from around the industry
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2015-12-01

Motor Management - Best Practices

Energy costs and downtime can be greatly reduced by instituting a motor management plan. Part II of this three-part series specifically addresses the establishment of a motor failure policy and the development of purchasing specifications. Part I addressed the general aspects of a motor management plan, including the first steps of creating a motor inventory and guidelines for motor repair and replacement. Part III will examine motor repair specifications as well as preventive and predictive maintenance.
PRODUCT NEWS | 2015-12-01

Product News

News about latest products
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2015-10-01

Motor Management - Best Practices

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

Industry News

News From the gear Industry
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2015-10-01

The Doomsday Clock is Ticking for Gearmotor Manufacturers

The secondhand on the Doomsday dial ominously spins around the face, slowly but ever so surely inching the motor industry towards its inevitable terminus:
PUBLISHER'S PAGE | 2015-10-01

Motor Madness

This issue we take a long, hard look at motor efficiency, and you should, too. After all, electric motors used in industrial settings are the single largest consumer of electricity in the United States. Upgrading your electric motors is not only good for the environment, but it’s also good for your bottom line. Sure, saving electricity lessens the burden on our country’s energy infrastructure. But it also saves you money in the long run.
| 2015-09-29

Welcome Back!

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

Industry News

News From Around the Gear Industry
EVENTS | 2015-08-01

Calendar

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

The Importance of Thermal Protection for Torque Motors

When talking about high-end machining or manufacturing applications that include direct-drive technology, one of the key advantages of utilizing this particular transmission method is its endurance. Because of the very nature of direct-drive motors they are able to operate at peak performance levels indefinitely — without any kind of wear or aging — as long as the motor isn’t pushed past its capacity. Unfortunately, because this isn’t a perfect world, unexpected things can happen which can cause the motor to overheat. Whether the heat source is due to a parameter being input incorrectly, or an unexpected external force causing more resistance than expected — it is important to have certain forms of thermal protection in place. Since torque motors are built in such a way that they cannot be repaired and yet maintain their efficiency, it is vital to prevent any overheating — thus precluding the need to purchase a new one.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2015-08-01

The Race for Efficiency

Over the past few decades, energy efficiency in motors has become an ever-increasing concern for OEMs and manufacturers alike. With multiple energy bills mandating higher efficiency across ever-broader spectrums of motors, including the most recent Small Motor Rule by the Department of Energy, efficiency has become an essential consideration when choosing a new motor.
| 2015-07-31

Vehicle Outlook

I don’t know about you, but the recession of 2008-2010 sticks in my mind like a bad penny. Since that time, I am never able to simply say ...
| 2015-07-13

Fitting the Inner Ring to the Shaft

I don’t recall a time during the startup of a new program where an engineer unfamiliar with heavy load

TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2015-06-01

When it Comes to Mining, Bigger is Best

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

Stepper Motor Actuators

How would you compare the efficiency and capabilities of hybrid stepper motor actuators vs. can stack stepper motor actuators?
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2015-04-01

Servo Motor Performance at Stepper Motor Prices

Enhancing production with — and for — less is the standing order in today’s manufacturing world. Speeding up production while at the same time looking for ways, to cut, for example, energy costs, is a tricky equation with no single answer; where and how management goes about achieving that can take several paths.
PUBLISHER'S PAGE | 2015-04-01

Girls Love Science

Hi. My name is Renee. I’m 12. You might remember me from about a year ago, when my dad wrote about me and the home-made motor project we did together (“Make the Connection,” February 2014).
POWER PLAY | 2015-04-01

Whats In a Meme

Rosetta Mission mixes with Maxon, Kim K for one unforgettable photo
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2015-03-01

Diagnosing the Health of Medical Motors

John Morehead, national sales manager of Crouzet Motors (Vista, CA), was bunkered down in his office in Palatine, IL surrounded at all points by ankle-deep snow from an unfortunately terrible Chicago’s winter night.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2015-02-01

Gear Fault Diagnosis by Motor Current Analysis: Application to Industrial Cases

The use of motor current signature analysis (MCSA) for motor fault detection — such as a broken rotor bar — is now well established. However, detection of mechanical faults related to the driven system remains a more challenging task. Recently there has been a growing interest for detection of gear faults by MCSA. Advantages and drawbacks of these MCSA-type techniques are presented and discussed on a few industrial cases.
| 2015-01-12

The All New Power Transmission Engineering Blog!

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

Energy Efficiency, Configurable Solutions Highlight Pack Expo

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

Motors and Motion Meet in St. Louis

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

The Small Motor Rule, How Will This Affect You

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

Low-Efficiency Motors and Gears Still Prevalent

Electric motor-driven systems are the single largest enduser of electricity, accounting for over 40% of global consumption according to the International Energy Agency.
PUBLISHER'S PAGE | 2014-10-01

Made in the USA, Sourced in China

If you read only one article this issue, it should be Norm Parker’s article on the Chinese bearing manufacturing industry. Parker is an engineer with General Motors, a true industry insider who has become a regular contributor to Power Transmission Engineering.
POWER PLAY | 2014-09-01

High-Tech Motors Evolving from PM Muck

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

Full Throttle

The Formula Renault 3.5 is seen as a crucial stepping stone on the way into the premier class, the Formula 1. Ambitious racers do not just bring their talents - they also have highly efficient motors on board to control the throttle of their 530-hp V8 engines.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2014-08-01

The Reluctance Motor Springs Forth

There are three major types of reluctance motors: all three reluctance motors are non-permanent magnet, brushless motors. They are synchronous motors with a non-linear relationship between torque and current. The variable-reluctance step and switched-reluctance motors utilize the principle of magnetic attraction by inducing magnet poles within the soft-iron rotor, and by energizing a set of coils wound around stator teeth resident in the laminated stator. These two reluctance motors must be sequentially excited to achieve continuous, steady-state rotation. The design of all reluctance motors requires finite element analysis (FEA) software.
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2014-08-01

Industry News

The complete Industry News section from the August 2014 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2014-06-01

Brushless PM-Motors Speed Ahead

There are more brushless PM motors being made every day. These brushless PM motors are smaller in size -- i.e., less than 50 watts in power output found in hard-disk drives, CD and DVD players and many portable medical devices. Servo systems with brushless PM motors ranging from 50 watts to 50 kilowatts are now challenging the larger electric motor applications. A few manufacturers have pushed brushless PM motors above 200 kW.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2014-04-01

The Ever-Efficient Motor

This product focus highlights the latest technology in electric motors.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2014-04-01

Lower Service Life Plus Less Waste Equals Lower Cost

Bearings that show wear may not always need to be replaced. Depending on the degree and type of wear, they may be candidates for reconditioning, a process that restores bearings to like-new specifications and performance - at an average 50 to 60 percent of the cost of replacement.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2014-04-01

The Step Motor

Step motors come in many sizes and shapes. But they all share one item in common - each step motor type moves in discrete-degree steps. They react to a series of voltage pulses supplied by their basic controller, known as an "indexer." The step motor was the first to accept digital pulses, then move or rotate a prescribed amount without any feedback device. All step motors are position devices without the need to use any feedback devices. They operate primarily in an open-loop control scheme.
PUBLISHER'S PAGE | 2014-04-01

Motor Appreciation

When I woke up this morning, my house was a comfortable 68°F, despite the fact that overnight temperatures in the Chicago area were close to freezing. I don’t often think about the blower motor that helps circulate the warm air from my furnace throughout my house, but today I was grateful for it...
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2014-03-01

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

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

Engineering Showcase 2014

We are pleased to present our first annual Engineering Showcase, a celebration of some of the leading products and companies in mechanical power transmission. In the pages that follow, you’ll find examples of engineering excellence and technological know-how in the field of gears, drives, couplings, machine parts and other mechanical components.
PUBLISHER'S PAGE | 2014-02-01

Make the Connection

Recently I had a disturbing conversation with a colleague here at the office. During the conversation, it became clear to me that my co-worker -- a really intelligent guy whom I respect a lot -- had no idea how even the most simple electric motor works.
| 2013-12-01

PT Extras

Video from Maxon Motors, Hannover Messe on our LinkedIn page and the NFPA annual conference on our Facebook page.
PRODUCT NEWS | 2013-12-01

Product News

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

The Workhorse of Industry: The Induction Motor

A brief overview of the induction motor, including the basics of construction, performance and variable speed drives.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2013-10-01

Drive and Motor Basics

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

How to Design a Spur-Crown Gear Set

When designing a spur-crown pair, is there a formula, guideline or design guide for adapting the spur teeth for the radial angle of the teeth in the crown?
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2013-08-01

Brush DC Motor Runs Along

Everything started in 1800 when Volta developed the first DC battery. Faraday used the DC battery to develop the first electric motor. It used brushes to transfer the battery voltage and current to the rotating disk rotor. This was in mid-1831. Thus was born the brush DC motor.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2013-08-01

Product News

The complete Product News section from the August 2013 issue of Power Transmission Engineering
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2013-06-01

DC Motor Protection

The purpose of DC motor protection is to extend a motor's lifespan by protecting it from conditions that can damage the motor's windings--both electrically and mechanically.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2013-04-01

New Motor Technology

Novatorque energy efficient motors, Portescap smaller-size brushless DC motors, Pittman customized motors, Kollmorgen stainless steel motors, Crouzet expanded motor series, and a report from IHS on rare earth mineral supply.
INDUSTRY NEWS | 2013-04-01

Industry News

News from Timken, Klueber, Sumitomo, NFPA, and more from the April 2013 issue of Power Transmission Engineering
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2013-02-01

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

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

Industry News

The complete Industry News section from the February 2013 issue of Power Transmission Engineering
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2012-12-01

Cruising with Curiosity

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

The Fundamentals of Specifying and Selecting Gear Drives

Gear drives deliver power to industrial equipment such as bulk material conveyors, mixers, pumps and paper mills. The reliability that translates into greater uptime and profitability begins by specifying and selecting the proper drives for these critical applications.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2012-10-01

PTExtras

Highlights from our e-mail newsletter and online videos section.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2012-10-01

Better Long than Short

The glass is at least half-full—and there is no hole in the glass. While fiscal cliff disaster is a possibility, we’re thinking more fiscal pothole.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2012-08-01

Electromagnetic Know-How

Finite Element Analysis (FEA) software can be used for a variety of mechanical engineering tasks, including injection molding simulation of plastic parts, analysis of aerospace components, impact and crash analysis of automobiles and the electromagnetic analysis of motors, actuators, transformers and sensors.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2012-06-01

Nervy Enterprise and Edgy Engineering: A Cant-Miss Mix

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

Improved Performance for Hydraulic Seals from Thermoplastic Polyurethane

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

Calendar

The complete Calendar of Events from the June 2012 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
POWER PLAY | 2012-06-01

The Painful Birth of the DC Electric Motor

Defined in rudimentary terms, an electric motor is a device that uses electricity to create mechanical force. But in 1834, when our story takes place, most people would have trouble understanding the ramifications. That was the year that one of the earliest DC electric motors was invented—by a blacksmith.
PUBLISHER'S PAGE | 2012-04-01

How to Become an Expert in Your Field

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

Sky Science

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

University Improves Sustainability of HVAC Motors in Platinum LEED Building

A new preventive maintenance program at a leading New England Ivy League university demonstrates how the push for more sustainable "green" building management has led to a growing awareness of a chronic, widespread problem with HVAC motors—electrical bearing damage and failure.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2012-04-01

Achieving High Electric Motor Efficiency

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

Guidelines for Designing Better Motion Control Systems

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

Optimizing Drive Systems for Energy Savings

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

Industry News

The complete Industry News section from the December 2011 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2011-12-01

Often Overlooked, Lubricants Can Help Lower Energy Consumption

It is a simple fact: better lubrication can lead to dramatic energy savings and an improved bottom line. This ought to interest any plant manager who is looking for ways to reduce operating costs, and it is especially significant at a time when stricter government regulations are in direct contradiction to reducing costs. Lubrication reliability is the solution; this article will describe how manufacturing plants can use “lubrication reliability best-practices” to reduce their energy consumption, emissions and operating costs—all at the same time.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2011-10-01

Step Motor Lower-Loss Technology - an Update

The demand for stepping motors with high efficiency and low losses has been increasing right along with the existing focus on high torque. The selection of the most suitable grade and improvement in the fastening of the laminated cores has reduced losses significantly at their peak when compared to conventional stepping motors.
EVENTS | 2011-10-01

Calendar

The complete Technical Calendar from the October 2011 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2011-08-01

Motoring Ahead

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

Microprocessor-Controlled Prosthetic Leg

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

Soft Starters vs. Variable Speed - Or Both

Given that many different hydraulic systems recommend the use of either frequency converters or cyclic control (soft starter technologies), the question must be asked - Which one of these solutions is the most cost-effective in reducing energy consumption and providing the most satisfactory payback time?
EVENTS | 2011-06-01

Energy and Automation Create Buzz at Hannover Messe 2011

More than 6,500 businesses from 65 countries came to Hannover to display their solutions with energy and automation the main topics of discussion.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2011-04-01

Motors Technology Update

The latest in motors technology from leading manufacturers.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2011-04-01

Exploring All Motor Options

Q&A with Harald Poesch, product marketing manager for servomotors at Siemens Drive Technologies.
POWER PLAY | 2011-04-01

When (Robotic) Animals Ruled the Earth...

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

Drive-Based Integrated Safety

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

The Green Spin: Baldor Redefines Cooling Tower Performance

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

A Present State and Future Vision of Motor Drive Technology

One of the driving forces behind the industrial revolution was the invention—more than a century ago—of the electric motor. Its widespread use for all kinds of mechanical motion has made life simpler and has ultimately aided the advancement of humankind. And the advent of the inverter that facilitated speed and torque control of AC motors has propelled the use of electric motors to new realms that were inconceivable just a mere 30 years ago. Advances in power semiconductors—along with digital controls—have enabled realization of motor drives that are robust and can control position and speed to a high degree of precision. The use of AC motor drives has also resulted in energy savings and improved system efficiency. This paper reviews the development and application of inverter technology to AC motor drives and presents a vision for motor drive technology.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2010-12-01

Medical Modifications

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

Medical Pumps with Uncommon Sens(ors)

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

Development of an Actuator for Ambient to Cryo Application

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

Urban Mobility--Reinventing the Wheel

Suggesting a bicycle is environmentally friendly is stating the obvious. But the Copenhagen Wheel, unveiled at the 2009 COP15 United Nations Climate Conference, is taking green technology and cycling in a new direction.
POWER PLAY | 2010-10-01

Vive (American) La France

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

Book Review: Design of Permanent-Magnet Brushless Machines

The latest offering by machine design experts J.R. Hendershot and T.J.E. Miller is an 822-page brushless permanent-magnet (PM) machine design book that serves as a worthy follow-up to their 1994 work.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2010-08-01

A Need for Reduced Energy Costs

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

The Case for Hollow-Shaft Torque Motors

Permanent-magnet, synchronous-torque motors offer significant advantages on high-energy-consuming and high-dynamic applications.
VOICES | 2010-05-01

AGMA--American Name, International Association

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

SMMA Spring Management Conference Navigates Recovery

The SMMA – Motor and Motion Association is ditching the slickers and galoshes for this year’s Spring Management Conference, themed “After the Storm: Navigating in the New World.”
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2010-02-01

Reducing Electricity Cost through Use of Premium Efficiency Motors

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

Data Loggers Gauge Wastewater Plants Motor Efficiency

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

Product News

The complete Product News section from the February 2010 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2009-12-01

Honing a Competitive Advantage

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

Direct Drive Technology and its Impact on the Gearmotor Business

An exploration of direct drive motor trends and examples of design uses for direct drives as replacements for gear drives or belt drives.
POWER PLAY | 2009-08-01

Now That Is Product Placement

ABB Robotics gets free advertising via summer blockbuster.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2009-06-01

Smart Bearings are in Control--But Full Potential Remains Untapped

Bearings with integrated sensors are used in a wide variety of applications, but many potential industrial uses are not yet implemented.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2009-06-01

Reducing Core Loss of Segmented Laminations

The recent trend toward using segmented laminations as a means to increase slot fill and facilitate automated fabrication of electric machines comes with a penalty of increased core loss at the segment joints.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2009-04-01

Lower-Loss Technology for a Stepping Motor

The demand for stepping motors with high efficiency and low losses has been increasing, although the demand had been previously focused on high torque. Also, the selection of the most suitable grade of lamination for improvement in fastening of the laminated cores has reduced losses significantly at their peak, when compared to conventional stepping motors. Lowering the losses of the motor has enabled continuous operation that was previously impossible. An expansion of the stepping motor’s usage into applications where another motor has been used for continuous operation and other uses—due to the heat generation problem—can now be pursued. In addition, these motors are very effective for energy saving. This paper explains the technology used for lowering the iron losses of the stepping motor.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2009-04-01

Historic Danish Theatre Gets a Facelift

The Royal Danish Theatre has occupied the heart of Copenhagen for centuries and recently upgraded to a new control system featuring Sprint Electric DC drives to extend the lives of the existing motors, keeping replacement costs down. The Swedish stage design and technology company Visual Act retained most of the original motors and mechanics while providing a much-needed facelift to the stage.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2009-04-01

Packaging Stimulus

Few industries are experiencing change quite as fast as the packaging arena. Lighter-weight containers are being introduced to reduce costs and energy use, packaging is being redesigned to attract consumer attention and manufacturers are using fewer materials in an effort to address environmental concerns.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2009-02-01

With Electric Motors, Size Indeed Matters

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

Power With Precision

Can direct drive technology improve your bottom line? Manufacturers relying upon drive systems in their production process have long sought ways to improve gearbox efficiency. While a gearbox-driven system has been the mainstay for manufacturers, it has also been, among other things, the source of frequent breakdowns, expensive line stoppages and increasingly costly maintenance.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2009-02-01

Six Keys to Sustainable Manufacturing

The federal government estimates that manufacturing uses about one third of the energy consumed in the U.S., so manufacturing companies can play an important role in building a sustainable future.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2008-10-01

Bovine Bliss

Brake application keeps cows happy and comfortable at dairy farms.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2008-08-01

Is Maintenance Included in Your Strategic Plan

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

Motor System Reliability Considerations for Cost-Effective Purchasing Decisions

OEMs can minimize the cost of ownership by using highly efficient motors and recognizing when unreliable motors are driving up the operating costs of their applications.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2008-06-01

Motor Decisions Do Indeed Matter--Big Time!

CEE/NEMA repair-or-replace campaign saves energy, dollars and downtime.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2008-06-01

Electric Motors: When is it Best to Repair, and When is it Best to Replace

The repair-versus-replace decision is quite complicated, depending upon variables such as rewind cost, severity of the failure, replacement motor purchase price and other factors.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2008-02-01

Motorsports in Motion

KD-Rig Puts Accelerating Developments International in Limelight
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2007-10-01

The Search for Intelligent Brakes

Th e Allen Telescope Array at Hat Creek, CA is a joint venture between the University of California Berkeley and the SETI Institute of Mountain View, CA. SETI has hired Minex Engineering of Antioch, CA to help with the design and installation of state-of-the-art drives and controls for the antenna array.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2007-04-01

Replacing Motors, Counting Savings

Th e total U.S. electric motor base exceeds 100 million motors and consumes more than 50% of all electricity generated in the country. Small motors—fractional horsepower to 20-hp—comprise 99% of the motor population but consume only 25% of all generated electricity (Refs. 1,3,10,14).
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2007-04-01

The SKF High-Capacity Cylindrical Roller Bearing

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