Industrial Factory Automation

Paul Holstein, COO of Cableorganiser.com, offers expert tips on what makes a hand tool ergonomic, and how to choose the right one for your body and the job. Drop into any hardware store or home improvement centre, and you're likely to find aisles full of tools labeled "ergonomic" But what exactly does that mean for consumers? Simply put, ergonomics is the science of designing and producing tools, furniture, and other work-related implements that improve a worker's efficiency while reducing discomfort, fatigue, and risk of injury. Ergonomically enhanced tools can include helpful features like angled handles, padded handgrips and nonslip coatings. However, no matter how impressive a tool's design is, it's almost impossible for it to be universally ergonomic since human physiques and project applications vary greatly from one to the next. Whether you're shopping for ergonomic tools or just trying to select the right one for the job from an existing collect...

BHR Group has completed development and installation of two intensified full size biodiesel reactor systems. Drawing on its chemical process design expertise in mixing systems, process intensification and scale up, BHR Group has completed development and installation of two intensified full size biodiesel reactor systems. Using its in-depth understanding of chemistry, chemical engineering, kinetics, mass transfer, mass and energy balances BHR Group has ensured these units consume some 70% less power than batch systems. The subsidiary BHR Biofuels has successfully installed and demonstrated the process intensified reactors at a chemical plant producing biodiesel from waste and virgin oils. Both the esterifier and the transesterifier models were producing biodiesel (on specification) in-line with the EN14214 standards with all feed stocks. Dr Richard Jackson, BHR Biofuels Technical Director, explains: "The novel process intensification technology means that the Transesterifier rea...

Steering wheel torque sensor fits in place of a standard steering coupler to measure the driver-applied torque on the system. The Techmor SW-1 steering wheel torque sensor is designed to accurately measure driver-applied torque on the steering wheel. This allows driver "feel" to be correlated with an actual value. A direct replacement for a standard steering coupler, this unit provides a millivolt output for torque applied in either direction. The SW-1 can easily be mated to the Techmor SG-1strain gauge amplifier for 0-5V output.

The UltraFlex hose is highly resistant to corrosion and offers outstanding working and burst pressures. PCL has launched a lightweight ultraflexible hose it reckons is the ideal companion for its range of handheld air tools Ideal for applications and environments where space is at a premium, yet complete freedom of movement is required, the UltraFlex air hose is a superb alternative to the traditional inflexible and heavy hose. Manufactured in a quality three-ply construction, using highly flexible PVC and polyester yarn reinforcement, the UltraFlex hose is highly resistant to corrosion and offers outstanding working and burst pressures. UltraFlex also has a very good "memory", which enables bends and kinks to straighten out so that the hose can return to normal after use. Available with a blue cover and black inner tube in 30m coils, UltraFlex is a convenient and cost-effective piece of equipment designed to make life easier for the user. The UltraFlex Air Hose complemen...

System includes precision aerospace pressure sensors, transmitters, receiver and all necessary mounting equipment in a carrying case. The Techmor TP-1 allows accurate measurement of tyre pressures while on the track or the road Outputting at 4Hz, the TP-1 provides a smooth datastream that makes subtle pressure variations on track visible. A transmitter mounted to each hub sends wireless messages to a single receiver mounted inside the car. The pass-through titanium valve-stem sensor allows pressures to be checked and adjusted without removing hardware. Systems can be quickly installed on any standard Nascar hub and switched between wheel sets and cars with no extra equipment. Outputs are available in analogue, RS232 or CANbus. The system includes precision aerospace pressure sensors, transmitters, receiver and all necessary mounting equipment in a carrying case.

The TTxGP will provide an opportunity for innovators in racing and clean emission technologies to compete and prove to the world that being green does not mean being slow. The Institution Of Engineering & Technology (IET) is set to take part in a new chapter in racing history as it becomes the exclusive institutional partner involved in the world's first clean emissions Grand Prix The TTxGP, which will take place in June 2009 on the famous Isle of Man TT motorcycling circuit, will provide an exciting opportunity for leading global innovators in racing and clean emission technologies to compete and prove to the world that being green does not mean being slow. According to Robin McGill, IET Chief Executive: "The Isle of Man TT race is famous across the world and we are delighted to be part of this new chapter of racing history". "The IET is a global organisation, representing 150,000 members in 127 countries across the world and through this partnership we can co...

Sola/Hevi-Duty offers a broad range of transformers to meet many applications. These dry-type transformers are offered encapsulated, ventilated or non-ventilated, 600 Volt Class, isolation type, single and three phase, through 500 kVA. Indoor and outdoor models are available. General Purpose Transformers can be located close to the load. No vaults are required for installation and no long, expensive feeder lines are needed. Common applications include inductive and resistive loads such as motors, lighting and heating. Hevi-Duty general purpose transformers are manufactured to meet applicable industry standards, are listed in accordance with UL 506 and UL 1561 specifications and are classified as isolation transformers. The family of transformers includes: Distribution Transformers General Purpose Low Temperature Rise K-Factor Copper Wound Automation Transformers General Purpose Hazardous Location Buck-Boost Drive Isolation Industrial Control