Industrial Factory Automation

Ondrives had introduced a slimline version of its spur offset gearboxes for spring 2011. 'These units have been designed for those applications where a smaller space envelope means a slimmer unit must be used,' said Ben Hinchliffe, the company's managing director. The smaller gear reducer units are, on average, 15 per cent slimmer than their standard counterparts, offering exactly the same torques, efficiencies and speeds as the bulkier versions, making them suitable for applications that need optimum output in a smaller unit. This has been achieved by the smaller units having a flush bore output and the larger sizes being bore input instead of shaft input. All are made in house by Ondrives using the latest CNC technology in a purpose-built environment, according to sales manager Barbara Fisher. Specials can be quoted for where required and modifications can be incorporated into standard designs.

Newport has enhanced its calibrated integrating sphere detectors, which are designed to measure the output light power of high-power light sources. These spheres optimise the measurement geometry for laser beams and other light sources, whether collimated or divergent. The new series includes the Model 819C (collimated) and Model 819D (divergent) instruments. Both are claimed to deliver excellent NIST-traceable calibration uncertainties of less than three per cent for most measurement ranges specified. The calibrated integrating sphere models with a silicon detector operate from 400Nm to 1,100Nm, while those with an indium gallium arsenide (InGaAs) detector cover the spectral range from approximately 800Nm to 1,650Nm. To accommodate various power-range requirements, the calibrated integrating spheres are available in 2in, 3.3in and 5.3in diameters. The new design includes a robust port frame, as well as a variety of attachments and accessories to provide greater configuration flexibi

The AGT GSM temperature monitor is a remote-controlled device that can monitor temperature and report back by SMS text message or by email. It will respond with the current temperature when sent a text message and will automatically send warnings when preset temperature limits are exceeded. In addition, it has a 'ring out' mode, where it will dial up to 10 telephone numbers to 'ring the phone'. The incoming caller ID tells the receiver that the AGT is calling with a temperature issue. The temperature sensor is digital and operates via a built-in RS232 port. The unit is powered from a 5-15VDC supply via a supplied mains adaptor, incorporates a global GSM/GPRS engine and needs only a SIM card and a GSM signal to operate. The operating temperature range is -30C to +75C. The AGT can be programmed to log the temperature data at preset intervals and then to email the data log as a .CSV file once an hour. Applications include building management and automation and monitori

Parker's Electromechanical Automation Division, a supplier of motion control technology, has released a catalogue featuring its IPS brand of structural framing products and systems. The 264-page guide features extrusion profiles, fasteners, brackets, handles, doors, panels, hinges, gussets and linear applications. The revised publication combines IPS's two previous catalogues, which covered metric and inch measurements. Corey Raub, IPS product value stream manager, said: 'The release of the smart products, which allow mounting to inch or metric extrusions, creates a more universal offering. 'The flexibility of these newly designed products results in much simpler application, allowing our partners to utilise either series of high-strength aluminium profiles with a more common set of components,' he added. The full-colour catalogue complements the selection of motion control products that are presently being offered by the Parker Automation Group. From this core

JSP has announced that customers in Africa have begun using its Arpro material to carry out component modelling for in-series automotive applications such as impact protection and interior components. The local manufacture of vehicles in Africa is stimulating demand for lightweight engineering solutions, while challenging transportation conditions require reusable packaging. Arpro customers such as Isowall in South Africa have been able to take advantage of Arpro 1000 - a new grade specifically designed for on-site expansion that negates geographic logistic penalties by reducing transport costs and emissions. Steve Betchev, Isowall's production director, said: 'From one starting density, it's possible to mould an enormous density range, enabling us to mould product for all our applications. 'Logistics are reduced, storage is simplified, we are more cost effective and we've reduced our carbon footprint,' he added. South African moulder Automa, meanwhile, is usi

Nematron's Smart Series embedded IPCs feature rugged, compact structures and are suitable for industrial automation, telecommunications and mobile applications. The IPCs incorporate a fanless design that reduces power consumption and noise through the absence of forced cooling. The compact structure is designed to meet space-challenging applications and can be adapted to different installation requirements. A high-vibration specification further increases suitability for harsh operating environments and the 9001 Core 2 Duo Model will operate in ambient temperatures of up to 60C. According to the company, the Smart Series is representative of second-generation fanless industrial processing platforms with the capacity to handle the chassis cooling requirements for a range of processors. The Smart 9002 supports the Intel Atom N270, while the 9001 model with a 1.2GHz Core 2 Duo central processing unit delivers higher processing capacity for more demanding applications. Both models

The MMT range of handles from Elesa is particularly suitable for applications where high-temperature equipment requires manual operation. The MMT, which features internal aeration channels and technopolymer insulation, provides a significant thermal break and a relatively cool handle, according to the company. The handles are suitable for use on ovens and other machinery running at high temperatures. Laboratory tests on the MMT show a thermal gradient of 110C reduction from the mounting surface to the thermoplastic handle, enabling otherwise scalding hot material to be manipulated at comfortable hand temperatures.

NXP Semiconductors has launched CGVxpress as an extension to its high-speed data-converter technology portfolio, and the next generation of the CGV high-speed serial interface announced in 2009. The CGVxpress will be used in future NXP ADC and DAC product ranges. The first demonstration of CGVxpress will occur at the IEEE International Microwave Symposium, held on 7-9 June 2011 in Baltimore, Maryland. NXP will showcase a 4.5Gbps CGVxpress transmitter interworking with an industry-standard FPGA over a 20cm differential data lane. CGVxpress (Convertisseur Grande Vitesse or High Speed Converter) interface technology is suited for: wireless infrastructure, industrial, scientific, medical, and aerospace and defence applications, where high bandwidth, sample accurate lane synchronisation and deterministic latency are critically technical requirements. The CGVxpress feature set also includes support for Multi-Device Synchronisation. MDS solves tough system synchronisation and latency challe

The small coaxially aligned LC-LMD-650-12 laser modules are available as part of Laser Components' LMD low-cost laser module series. While the housing and the beam axis of standard products often differ by several degrees, the maximum angular error of the LC-LMD-650-12 modules is +/-0.05deg. This property speeds up assembly time. In light curtains, for example, each module no longer has to be aligned to match the photocell on the opposite side. It is usually enough to position the module mount once. The laser modules then only have to be placed into the mount and soldered. The lasers also feature small dimensions. They have a length of 15.50 +/-0.05mm; the diameter is 10.00 +/-0.05mm. This type of module is available with an output power of less than 1mW and less than 5mW. The wavelength is 650nm and the operating voltage is 3V DC.

The new Han 70A crimp module is the latest addition to the Harting Han-Modular Series of heavy-duty connectors. Designed for use in applications presenting the toughest mechanical demands, the module is plug-compatible with the existing Han 70A axial screw module and allows the transmission of high power levels within a compact space. In a typical application, up to 12 power contacts rated at 70A and 1,000V can be implemented in a pluggable version in a Han 24 B connector configuration. The unit can incorporate two power contacts per module and up to six modules per connector. It has a working voltage of 1,000V, combined with a conductor cross-section of 10 to 25mm. The use of crimp termination technology means that crimping tools already on hand can be used, although contacts can also be removed without tools. As an open connector system, the Han-Modular series is especially flexible and allows adaptation to users' individual requirements, so that users can put together their ow

International Rectifier has introduced the IRS2548D Switched Mode Power Supply (SMPS) control IC for energy-efficient applications for high-power Light Emitting Diode (LED) illumination. This includes LED street lighting, stadium lighting and theatrical lighting. The IRS2548D, which combines Power Factor Correction (PFC) and half-bridge driver in a single IC offers greater than 88 per cent efficiency for a 40V/1.3A HBLED load to deliver a higher efficiency solution compared with alternative flyback converter solutions at power levels above 60W. By incorporating both control stages into a single IC, the IRS2548D provides an integrated solution for LED power supplies that simplifies design and helps reduce overall system cost, while providing significant energy savings. The device achieves PWM dimming down to less than two per cent light output and offers protection features that include programmable PFC and half-bridge over-current protection, latch immunity and ESD protection. The IR

Elliptic has launched its HDCP 2.0 (High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection) Software Development Kit, a key security technology that addresses content protection for high-valued digital content. The specification has been endorsed by Sony, Panasonic, Intel and high-definition content owners Universal Pictures, Warner Bros Entertainment and others. The HDCP 2.0 Software Development Kit (SDK) is a fully portable architecture that can be used on all popular platforms and Operating Systems, including Android based devices. The HDCP 2.0 SDK from Elliptic is a complete, robust and cost-effective content-protection solution for digital audio/video entertainment content in the wireless and wireline home-network environment. The solution is targeted at OEMs and embedded-system and device manufacturers, and can be seamlessly integrated into embedded components for use in tablets, media centres, DVDs, HDTVs, set-top boxes, game consoles, streaming controllers, laptops and other consumer el

At the SMT exhibition in Nuremberg, Germany, on 3-5 May, Teknoflex will showcase its flexible and flex-rigid circuit technologies, and associated assembly capabilities. Teknoflex offers AS9100-accredited flexible and flex-rigid circuit design, manufacture and component/connector assembly capability, plus its novel and differentiated Surface Mount Interconnects (SMIs) and Regal Flex technologies.

Semikron has launched its newest MINISKIIP IGBT power semiconductor module, which is now also available in three-level topology. The module features a rated current of 4.9A/cm and one phase leg per module, enabling the development of compact inverters with output power of up to 85kVA. The MINISKIIP is characterised by the fast and easy single-screw assembly and therefore optimised for the efficient manufacture of three-level solar inverters and UPS systems. The rated current per unit of area is up to twice that of other three-level modules, according to the company. Since no solid busbars are needed between the three phases/modules, more compact inverters can be made. The reverse voltage of the IGBTs and diodes used has been increased to 650V to enable DC link voltages of 900V for 480V three-phase power applications typical in commercial or industrial settings in the US. Each module has a three-level phase leg with sufficient space for 10 power semiconductors each. Thermal and elec

Inertial Aerosystems has introduced what it claims is the smallest commercial integrated magnetic sensor chip currently available, for applications such as compassing and magnetometry. Designated the HMC 5883L, it is manufactured by Honeywell Aerospace and is designed for low field magnetic sensing with a digital interface. Included are improved high-resolution magnetoresistive sensors with automatic degaussing (demagnetising) strap drivers, offset cancellation and a 12-bit ADC for high-resolution Earth fields sensing. By using established anisotropic magnetoresistive (AWR) technology, this product features advanced precision in axis sensitivity and linearity while measuring both the direction and the magnitude of the Earth's magnetic fields. It is designed for low-voltage operations (2.16V to 3.6V) and low power consumption (100uA), and is compatible with battery-powered operations. The built-in strap-drive circuits provide demagnetisation of the sensor for each measurement, as

Schaeffler has announced that it is now offering its RUS and PR linear recirculating roller guidance systems to UK customers on fast lead times. John Loonam, linear product specialist at Schaeffler, said: 'Although the RUS and PR linear recirculating roller guidance systems have been part of our range for many years, many UK customers, particularly machine builders and machine tool retrofitters, still have a requirement for these types of linear guides. 'Fortunately, Schaeffler UK holds a good stock of these units available on fast lead times - typically one to two months,' he added. Linear recirculating roller guidance systems comprise INA linear recirculating roller bearings, with guideways and adapters. The units can be used as locating/locating or locating/non-locating bearings. In a closed arrangement, the bearings can support loads from all directions and moments about all axes. The RUS and PR versions within the range are said to be popular with machine tool retrof

TE Connectivity (TE) has released the FullAXS connector system, which provides the SFP connection between the remote radio and basestation for telecommunications applications. This offering meets the requirements of next-generation Wimax and Long Term Evolution (LTE) Fiber To The Antenna (FTTA) connectivity designs for rugged outdoor use. It is also said to accommodate a broad range of SFP transceivers, allowing end users to select the transceivers that meet their specific system requirements. Rugged cable assemblies used in Wimax and LTE FTTA applications establish their direct connection by plugging directly into optical transceivers through a bulkhead. Such connections require a connector that can accommodate a large tolerance in the Z direction. The TE FullAXS connector system meets this requirement by allowing for a large Z-direction tolerance while also offering the benefit of one-hand installation of the connector shell. With this new product offering, users can also remove an

EMKA's 1130 concept flush slam lock is suited to doors or covers on equipment housings such as generator sets, HVAC cabinets or other freestanding equipment where frequent access is required. With particular attention to simple fitting and simple operation, and its easy-to-use paddle handle, the 1130 features an injected foam gasket with four-point fixing to achieve IP54 sealing compatible with these applications. It offers keylocking with all the standard EMKA key variants and permits slam locking with the mechanism in the locked position. Construction is in polyamide with a depth of 53mm to accommodate deep insulated doors. Other compatible items from the EMKA programme include a full electronic locking system for remote installations, as well as various stainless steel locks and hinges. Many extruded rubber door sealing profiles are also available in EPDM, neoprene and PVC so that specialist panel builders may match door sealing requirements. EMKA's range of enclosure hard

Yaskawa has launched the EcoIPM series of low-energy motors, suitable for energy-efficient equipment and machinery in demanding working environments. When combined with a Yaskawa V1000 inverter, the EcoIPM permanent magnet motors form an efficient drive package that can help to reduce lifecycle costs. Under the EuP legislation, certain types of new equipment, such as pumps, fans and compressors, will have to meet efficiency requirements that can only be fulfilled by combining an IE3 motor with an inverter drive. EcoIPM motors are claimed to offer better energy efficiency than standard motors. The permanent magnet motors are designed to optimise cost effectiveness and to help reduce carbon emissions through lower energy consumption when combined with a Yaskawa V1000 frequency inverter. With the EcoIPM motors, the company complies with the new EU directive (640/2009), which mandates that motors of the previous EFF2 efficiency class may not be sold from 2011 onwards. With energy prices

Precision Microdrives has increased the vibration output of its 310-101 10mm coin vibrator motor, which is suitable for handheld applications such as mobile phones. The 310-101 vibrating motor features a compact size, a straightforward self-adhesive mounting method and an enclosed, shaftless design. The newly updated 310-101 is claimed to offer a very high vibration output amplitude. It remains a 10mm shaftless vibrating motor with a brushed commutation mechanism, and its typical output has been increased to 1.2g (11.72m/s). A brushless 10mm motor, known as the 310-109, is also in production. The brushed commutator offers a standard runtime (before a 30 per cent change in performance) of 100,000 cycles (one second on, one second off), whereas the brushless version is rated at 700,000 cycles (seven times longer). According to the company, using vibrating motors in handheld devices is an excellent way to signal alarms and other events to users and operators. A vibration alarm mechanism

Flir Motion Control Systems (MCS) is currently showcasing the E-Series inertial stabilisation module and a range of high-performance pan-tilts at the SPIE Defense and Security show in Orlando. The company is offering QPT-20 users an easy way to move up to the PTU-D48 E-Series model pan-tilt as well as improved durability and performance. Flir is offering customers who have recently purchased a Quickset QPT-20 a PTU-D48 E-Series model at a discounted price. The Flir PTU-D48 E-Series model is designed for demanding real-time control applications.

Wago's new J1939 interface function block increases large engine efficiency by tracking, and reacting to, engine performance parameters via the Wago-I/O-System. The J1939 interface is compatible with SAE's J1939 protocol, which is favoured by engine manufacturers. This enables Wago-I/O-System programmable controllers and IPCs to cost effectively monitor and optimise engine operation on large vessels, generator sets or within plants. Monitoring multiple engines on one controller area network (CAN), the J1939 interface directs Wago-I/O-System components to run auxiliary devices such as cooling fans or to execute alarm, start/stop and speed control functions. Engine data may also be transferred to a local human-machine interface (HMI) or to a SCADA system via fieldbus. The majority of Wago-I/O-System controllers, couplers and modules carry approvals including UL, ABS, DNV, GL, CE and ATEX. These make the J1939 interface and the Wago-I/O-System suitable for diverse engine monito

Giga-tronics has released the Series 8800, a range of Ascor common-core-based signal switching products designed to meet test requirements in defence and aerospace applications, for example. This new range of products provides a modular RF/LF/DC switching platform that is scalable and reconfigurable to meet existing and emerging test requirements covering the DC to 50GHz frequency range. The standard Series 8800 incorporates 12 switch modules that can be equipped with various relay configurations, including multiple SPDT through SPnT (n=3-6) relays in both terminated and non-terminated versions. Other relay configurations are also available. Modules can be added or replaced when test requirements change. Should other signal conditioning components be required, there is a place to add components such as programmable attenuators, amplifiers, filters, circulators/isolators and power dividers/combiners. Front and rear panels can be tailored to a specific application - with custom labels

Stampingsimulation has announced that it is now offering Ansys structural simulations on demand. The company uses Ansys to analyse structural loading problems - any force applied to any object - to check for deflection and high stress areas that may fail. Autoform simulates the forming of sheet metal, whereas Ansys simulations analyse structures, such as tool design or the strength of a sheet metal part loaded by a mass or external force.

Zwick Roell has introduced the hydraulic composites compression fixture (HCCF), which improves specimen handling, enables different specimen geometries to be tested and produces reproducible results. Found to deliver good results following tests carried out by a major European aircraft manufacturer in 2010, the HCCF was developed and patented by IMA Materialforschung und Anwendungstechnik in Dresden, Germany. It is produced and marketed by Zwick. According to Zwick, the compression test is one of the most important tests performed on carbon-fibre composite materials. However, it can be a challenging test to perform accurately because introducing the load to the specimen is problematic and flexure and stress peaks can easily lead to erroneous test results. The new HCCF from Zwick is designed to eliminate these problems and give better control during tests. It enables shorter testing times, avoids errors and is very flexible, allowing different shapes of specimens to be tested. Complia

Harvard Apparatus has introduced a line of OEM syringe pumps designed for specialised solutions for a variety of fluid-handling applications to meet customers' fluidics-research requirements. OEM pump modules are capable of operating over a wide flow rate range, from picolitres/min to hundreds of millilitres/min. Harvard Apparatus' High Pressure Models can easily handle viscous solutions with a linear pumping force in excess of 400lb. In addition to standard products, Harvard Apparatus can develop a pump and electronics for customised applications, including drug-deposition systems for medical devices and lab-on-a-chip systems.

Rittal's new LCP Extend is a liquid cooling package unit based on an air/water heat exchanger that solves the problem of high heat losses caused by Blade and 1U servers of up to 12kW per rack. Without having to modify the existing series of enclosures, this product can be attached as an independent cooling unit to the rear doors of practically any rack while the rack is in operation. This means the system can be easily retrofitted in the event of any problems from thermal issue. Hot air, dissipated towards the rear by the servers, is forced through the air/water heat exchanger by fan units and then expelled. Maximising long-term energy costs is also essential, therefore the LCP extend can be connected to a free-cooling chiller circuit, which provides continuous cooling at minimal costs.

JW Winco now offers cylindrical-type GN 351 vibration isolation mounts, which are suitable for the elastic mounting of machine units such as motors, compressors and pumps, in metric sizes. Designed to be simple and economical construction elements, the RoHS-compliant components are also known as vibration mounts, anti-vibration mounts, vibration bobbins or rubber bumpers. Their resilience and broad range of different sizes and dimensions allow these mounts to be used in many applications that require vibration isolation. These mounts are available in three types: with two tapped holes; with one tapped hole and one threaded stud; or with two threaded studs. The mount body is made of natural rubber (NR), vulcanised, 55 durometer with a shore hardness of +/-5 degrees. The cover plate is made of steel, zinc plated, blue passivated and moulded in, as are the tapped inserts or threaded studs. Tapped and stud versions in inch sizes are available upon request. Specials, with certain minimum

Warner Instruments has introduced the Biostat, a software-driven, multi-mode potentiostat for measuring pH, reactive oxygen species and nitric oxide. This system allows precise amperometric, voltammetric and temperature measurements to be made independently on up to four channels. According to Warner, total electrical isolation of each channel ensures independent recording with ultra-low noise. The Biostat system can handle signals of either polarity, employing either two-electrode or three-electrode sensor configurations. The compact, rugged case and shielding is designed to be stable and durable, while providing immunity from external interference. Biostat can be used with Warner's line of Microminiature electrodes and sensors, or for any multi-channel, isolated data acquisition, such as multi-electrode electrophysiological recordings. Warner Instruments is a designer and manufacturer of biomedical devices for the electrophysiological, cellular and neurological sciences.

Maple Systems has released a Graphic HMI video capability that facilitates the control and monitoring processes of automation. From the general surveillance of a plant to capturing important process imagery when alarms or triggers occur, users can now integrate both live and recorded video into their HMI application. This imagery can then be stored on a removable device (SD card, USB Drive) and later reviewed for analysis. Customers can connect a camera to their Maple HMI to view or record live video of their process in NTSC or PAL formats. For more coverage, users can connect two different cameras to the HMI and import video on two different channels. As an example, you could aim one camera on an entire bottling machine while another camera records closeups when a bottle is incorrectly filled. Users can also capture video when the viewing windows are closed - freeing users up to utilise another screen of their HMI application - even though video is being recorded. Maple's Video

The Guidelock Slimline F can be installed horizontally and vertically, and is designed to prevent cables swinging with the movement of the machine and becoming damaged. The Energy Chain is guided through a lightweight aluminium trough containing the Igus Guidelock system. This comprises a spring-loaded roller support bracket that moves away on contact and springs back afterwards to support the upper Energy Chain run. Up to 80 per cent less trough is required overall and the Energy Chain is still protected from extremes of movement, reducing costs. The Guidelock Slimline F is also a fast and easy solution requiring less installation time and allows easy access for servicing. Debris is less likely to settle between the sliding surfaces with the Guidelock system, meaning that there is less chance of damage to the cables. A Guidelock Slimline F system is suitable for use in most lifting equipment, but the greatest benefits have been seen on lifts, elevators, storage and retrieval units,

A large construction and mining company has purchased couplings from Renold to provide a long-term solution to eliminate the constant failure of couplings on its underground mine trucks. For many years, the company was fitting V-type rubber-in-shear couplings between the engine and the gearbox. However, when the coupling failed, the truck was coming to a complete stop, often blocking an important access point. Renold recommended the HTB 4500 rubber-in-compression coupling. Its intrinsically failsafe, maintenance-free and severe shock load protection properties, coupled with its high temperature capability of up to 200C, made it a suitable choice. A rubber-in-compression coupling was also favoured by the company as it can drive metal to metal to move the truck out of the way and continue mining if the rubber blocks disintegrate. This was illustrated when a problem with the oil circulation in the gearbox resulted in the gearbox overheating and destroying the rubber blocks in the coupli

Mettler-Toledo, a supplier of precision instruments, offers the Newclassic MS as a durable, high-performance balance that helps grain operators acheive both accuracy and speed. This benefits not only buyers but also farmers, who are paid based on crop quality. Harvest is a busy time at grain-receiving sites and testers must work quickly, often in extreme conditions, to expedite offloading and reduce related operating costs. But in addition to speed, assuring grain quality is paramount to ensure the integrity of the international food supply chain. Density, moisture content and protein quality must fall within certain tolerances to be accepted. Accurate grading produces more uniform flour and in the end, more satisfying bread and other cereal grain products. ISO 7971 specifies a multi-step routine for determining the bulk density or mass per hectolitre of grain samples. If any variable is off, an entire truckload may be deemed poor quality, resulting in expensive delays or even produc

Euromark, a supplier of continuous inkjet (CIJ) printers and barcode systems, has received a number of orders from Irish beverage producers, such as Diageo, Antrim Hills and Cooley Distilleries. Equipment supplied by Euromark includes a range of Hitachi CIJ printers, barcode systems and portable print systems, which are all supported by the company's technical support. One of Euromark's earliest Irish customers, which is already seeing a return on its investment, is Dublin-based premium drinks business Diageo, who purchased three Hitachi coders following a successful trial of the equipment. Diageo's continuous improvement engineering trainer, Chris Grehan, said the company had been impressed by Euromark's level of service, knowledge and assistance. The three Hitachi printers that Diageo has on site are being used to track and trace information on beer kegs and achieving more than 1,000 impressions per hour. Diageo has reported the Hitachis to be extremely reliable a

Air Science has introduced the Purair Eco line of energy-saving ductless fume hoods, designed to provide chemical and particulate protection over a range of laboratory and industrial applications. According to Air Science, Purair Eco is a safe, cost-effective and energy-efficient ductless containment cabinet that minimises stress on facility HVAC systems without compromising protection for personnel and the environment. It is available with a choice of controllers, including the company's Ecoair touchpad control with colour-display interface. An optional BACnet network interface connects all cabinet control, monitoring and alarm functions to an open-source facility-monitoring system. The system is based on an industry-wide, non-proprietary ASHRAE-compliant protocol for green building management. The Purair Eco is available in five standard sizes from 30 to 69in wide. Complete details and specifications of the Eco energy-saving ductless fume hoods can be accessed via the company&#

Tsubaki offers a wide range of small pitch conveyor chains and flexible attachment options, as well as the ability to customise standard products to meet specific application requirements. Tsubaki's small pitch attachment chain product range includes single-pitch, starting from as small as RS25 (6.35mm), and double-pitch chain. Double-pitch chains with flat-link plates are designed for applications where the conveying distance is relatively long or the speed is low. Other available options include lube-free chain; corrosion-protected and resistant chain; lightweight options that utilise plastic rollers; and high-precision chain for critical indexing and conveying tasks. Some material options, such as stainless steel, allow use in high- or low-temperature environments. Small pitch attachment chain offers specific advantages for conveying smaller products, where accuracy and smoothness of motion are important. The small pitch allows for a more compact design and, being generally li

Ashcroft Instruments has introduced the Heise DXD, a pressure transducer designed to be accurate, stable and suitable for use in a wide range of critical processes, test panels and laboratories. Up to 99 addressable Heise DXD digital pressure transducers connect directly to a serial port on a PC using standard telephone wiring. According to Ashcroft, the Heise DXD is accurate up to 0.02 per cent FS. It is available in RS232 or RS485 communication protocol, with pressure ranges from vacuum through to 10,000psi. The pressure transducer delivers serial port speeds up to 115Kbps and update rates of up to 15mS. It connects to a PC with a standard RJ-11 telephone or RJ-45 Ethernet cabling. A Labview driver and utility software is available. Ashcroft Instruments will be at booth 2157 at the Offshore Technology Conference in Houston, 2-5 May.

Investing in hospital bed mover machines from Mastermover has enabled Sodexo to improve porter productivity and reduce the risk of manual handling injuries at University Hospital of South Manchester. Now only one porter is needed to move a patient bed, meaning the productivity of the hospital's portering staff has improved dramatically. The Bed Mover caters for any bed type, so there are no issues with connecting to the three types of bed at University Hospital of South Manchester (UHSM). UHSM is an acute teaching hospital trust that provides services for adults and children at Wythenshawe Hospital and Withington Community Hospital. It is recognised as a centre of clinical excellence and provides district general hospital services and specialist tertiary services to the local community. Sodexo provides on-site service solutions to the NHS and other healthcare clients. It manages non-clinical services such as food, cleaning, laundry, waste management, switchboard, car parking, int

Integra has launched a new version of its popular Dose It peristaltic pump with enhanced functionality, enabling laboratories to undertake even challenging liquid-handling tasks. The new Dose It Customize software mode allows users to create their own personalised liquid-handling protocols. Up to 20 consecutive dispensing and aspirating steps can be defined. A range of settable parameters, such as volume, flow rate and repetitions, can be assigned to each step. In addition, the flow rate can be set to ramp up or down to the target speed, avoiding foaming, splashing or unwanted turbulences during dispensing. Applications that have benefited from the new Dose It Customize mode include gentle filling of density gradient tubes by slowly increasing the flow rate, coating Petri dishes by adding and removing coating solution, and preparing serial dilutions by having an air gap between sample and the diluent. Simple to set-up and implement, the scope for optimised liquid-handling protocols

Porvair Filtration Group has developed Universal Pig Traps for inserting pipeline inspection gauges (pigs) into a gas pipeline then launching, receiving and removing them without flow interruption. Porvair Universal Pig Traps, designed and manufactured to meet the strict safety requirements of T/SP/E/56, are provided fully painted and complete with monitors to confirm the launch or receipt of the pipeline pig. The pigs are utilised for the purposes of pipeline cleaning and telemetry based inspection of pipelines. The equipment is designed and constructed to suit either fixed installation or mobile operations. Porvair Filtration Group (Gas Division) provides a total filtration service to natural gas, offshore oil and gas industries, from single elements to complete skid-mounted systems.

Physik Instrumente (PI) has introduced the E-725 three-channel motion controller, which is suitable for applications such as tracking or atomic force microscopy. According to the company, the performance of precision positioning systems equally depends on their mechanical systems and on the way they are controlled. Thanks to digital technology, users have access via software to numerous parameters that optimise the settling time and linearity or compensate for system inertia during fast scans. Among other performance features, the E-725 is said to optimise the dynamic positioning of specimen in the X, Y and Z directions for applications such as tracking or atomic force microscopy. The E-725 uses modern interfaces such as USB and Ethernet. There are a number of software drivers available to support its integration as a subsystem in existing structures. The E-725 is described as a powerful 32-bit processor that ensures a servo rate of 20kHz. The position signal has a 24-bit resolutio

DGH has introduced the D6000 series of seven-channel analogue-input smart data acquisition modules that communicate using the Modbus RTU protocol with RS-485 output. The D6000 series allows sensors to be interfaced to any computer or processor-based equipment that contains a serial port. It consists of modules that measure voltage (+/-25mV, +/-50mV, +/-100mV, +/-1V, +/-5V and +/-10V), current (+/-20mA), thermocouples (J, K, T, E, R, S, B and C) and a universal module that accepts all of the above. Up to 247 modules or 1,729 channels can be strung on a pair wire to a serial port on a host computer. The measurement resolution is 16 bits. Accuracy is a maximum of +/-0.05 per cent of full scale, while the conversion rate is 8/s to 25/s. Input-to-output isolation is 500Vrms and input burnout protection is 250VAC. Transient suppression on all RS-485 lines is provided. The modules contain a customer-programmable digital filter. All scaling, linearisation and calibration and communications v

Cognex has released the latest version of In-Sight Explorer, expanding the capabilities of In-Sight vision systems and giving In-Sight a range of advanced inspection tools. In-Sight Explorer 4.5 inspection tools now include an all-in-one edge and surface inspection tool, an all-in-one bead width and position tool and an ID tool that reads multiple codes at one time, allowing In-Sight cameras to read barcodes and provide inspections simultaneously. The new Flexible Flaw Detection (FFD) edge and surface inspection tool works for both colour and greyscale applications and is used to inspect for boundary defects, such as conformity of shape, and surface defects including stains and scratches. FFD can also be used for print inspections, such as inspecting screened logos for defects. The tool also gives users the flexibility to select accuracy-versus-speed requirements and the ability to ignore defects during system runtime. Bhaskar Banerjee, business unit manager for Cognex Vision Syste

Air Control Industries has launched a new website and published a range of product brochures with a separate publication dedicated to each of the company's individual air-movement product ranges. Features of the new website include easier navigation, more downloads (PDFs, DXFs and 3D images) and videos demonstrating products in use. Reinforcing ACI's international activities and regional support is the option to view the website in key languages.

Newport has introduced a terahertz (THz) pulse generation kit that uses a sub-35-fs Ti:sapphire amplifier system, designed for demanding applications by the research community. The kit can be integrated with a Ti:sapphire amplifier to generate terahertz pulses that can be further used for linear, non-linear and time-resolved spectroscopy applications. The THz pulse generation kit utilises standard Newport optics, opto-mechanics, manual stages and Conex-based motorised solutions to provide high performance and accuracy. The 800nm Ti:sapphire laser pulse (1kHz ~ 300uJ per pulse) is focused into ambient air to generate the air plasma that produces THz pulses. With this design, the damage threshold is not a concern as the air replenishes itself from pulse to pulse. The generated THz pulse has the oscillation that spans about 1ps and has the estimated pulse energy of 0.1-0.3nJ per pulse. In addition, the ability to recover the phase and the amplitude information of the THz field through e

The Scout screw counter from Mountz is designed to help manufacturers to detect and eliminate costly screw-fastening errors during the assembly process. Screw counters verify that all fasteners have been installed and were seated to the tool's preset torque setting. These units take the control of the assembly process out of the operator's hands. The Scout screw counter is designed to detect cross threading, omissions, unfinished rundowns and cycle completes, ensuring that the assembly process is done correctly the first time. The Scout operates jointly with Mountz electric screwdrivers and STC30 or STC40 power supplies. With four ports on the side of the Scout, a maximum of four screwdrivers can share one program with the unit. The Scout can 'learn' the characteristics of not only the power tool but also that of the application that it is being used on. This allows the screw counter to distinguish between a fastener that was properly seated and one that was either st

Mountz has released a whitepaper designed to help users to understand, maintain and service their torque wrenches. According to the company, a torque wrench is a precision tool and should be treated and maintained like a measuring instrument. A torque wrench must be properly calibrated and maintained on a preventative maintenance and calibration schedule. Mountz can help users to learn valuable information regarding setting verification and calibration intervals, as well as preventive maintenance for torque wrenches. Users can also gain a better understanding of different torque accuracies listed by suppliers as well as understanding the scale used on different torque wrenches. In the maintenance and manufacturing world, tightening, controlling or measuring the torque of fasteners is imperative for production efficiency and quality control. With inadequate torque, a fastener can vibrate or work loose. Conversely, if the torque is too high, the fastener can break or strip or adjoining

Master Bond's EP30LTE-LO two-component epoxy is designed for bonding, sealing, casting and coating applications in the aerospace, electrical, electronic, chemical, optical and computer industries. Formulated with a special blend of polymeric and inorganic materials, the EP30LTE-LO is claimed to provide excellent dimensional stability. This epoxy combines excellent performance with a low thermal expansion coefficient. Serviceable over a temperature range of -60F to 250F, the EP30LTE-LO cures at room temperature with 85 per cent of its maximum strength developed within 48 hours. Faster cures are possible at elevated temperatures. This 100 per cent reactive epoxy features a low coefficient of thermal expansion of 12x10-6in/in/C and a low shrinkage rate of less than 0.0002in/in. It bonds well to metals, glass, ceramics, wood, vulcanised rubbers and most plastics and produces bonds with a tensile strength over 5,000psi. This electrically insulative system resists thermal cycling and

Gates' Fluid Power unit has launched hose monitoring, diagnostics and identification services designed to help OEMs, distributors and end users to maximise the productivity of their hose assemblies. Companies that depend on fluid power equipment at construction sites, mining operations, wind farms, marine facilities and offshore platforms, for instance, can use Sentry IQ and Sentry ID, the complementary components of Sentry Services, to track the condition and performance of hose assemblies and prevent hose failure. This helps to eliminate equipment downtime, which can cost anywhere from thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars per hour for critical end-user applications. Sentry IQ monitors real-time diagnostic information about the operating condition and performance of hose assemblies, continuously measuring temperatures, pressures, impulse cycles and more to calculate remaining hose life and to identify hoses for replacement before failure occurs. Sentry ID is a radio-f

Simulation software from Stampingsimulation has helped volunteer organisation Connecticut Corsair to restore a Corsair F4U fighter aircraft. The restoration of the Second World War aircraft is intended to provide a medium by which current and future students can be educated in the areas of maths, science and engineering. The project is also designed to promote and develop the advanced manufacturing processes hosted by the local businesses in Connecticut. Stampingsimulation worked alongside the Corsair team to help form the parts right the first time.

Transmagic, a developer of 3D design data repair and conversion software, has released the Transmagic R8 service pack 5 (sp5). Transmagic grants clients access to the latest technology and product enhancements for seamless 3D data exchange. The software provides a universal 3D interoperability platform to preserve design data accuracy and reusability for years into the future, according to the company. The new release includes many enhancements designed to empower users of 3D data to get the most from any 3D design file. The enhanced Assembly Browser in Transmagic now offers access to more metadata and information than ever before. These new features are optimised to help professionals quickly find and use the data they need. In addition to processing huge files, Transmagic R8 sp5 turns multi-gigabyte assemblies into a virtual design database, allowing parts and subassemblies to be exported and reused, on demand, for any purpose. 'By eliminating the barriers to access and reuse o

Huntsman is developing resins and adhesives as part of the Trans-IND project, which is dedicated to the industrialisation of fibre-reinforced plastic (FRP) components for transport infrastructure. The European Commission-funded project's consortium is composed 21 partners, including large constructors, machinery manufacturers, material providers, engineering societies and high-technology universities and research centres from nine European Union countries. The primary objective of the Trans-IND project is to develop a flexible, cost-effective industrialisation system of FRP components for transport infrastructures through the complete integration of the whole construction process. This system involves the development of a conceptual model and modular designs using FRP-based materials for all types of transport components, including off-site manufacturing, logistics and transport and on-site assembly, together with the ICT tools needed to manage the whole process. FRP-based manu

Stemmer Imaging now offers a range of GigE cameras from IDS, including the GigE Ueye CP that is designed to reduce costs and simplify installation in applications where space is severely limited. The GigE Ueye CP has a compact housing of 29 x 29 x 41mm, yet offers all the benefits of Gigabit Ethernet technology such as a bandwidth of more than 100MByte/sec over cable lengths of up to 100m, as well as featuring Power over Ethernet (PoE) connectivity. The combination of the small dimensions and PoE capability allows both power and data to be sent over a single Ethernet cable. A lockable connector for an external 12-24V power supply is also provided for non-PoE configurations, as well as trigger and strobe connections. Available in colour or monochrome versions and a choice of WVGA, 1.3-megapixel and 5-megapixel resolution, the GigE Ueye CP range features CMOS sensors with global and rolling shutters to give excellent image quality. All cameras have a C-mount lens connector and offer a

Lincoln Electric has added a Kohler 9.5HP Model CH395 overhead cam (OHC) gasoline engine to its Outback 145 welder, which is suitable for jobsites and outdoor welding applications. The welder is designed for applications that require a rugged and easily portable machine that includes a reliable generator. This unit is specifically designed for contractors, maintenance crews, farmers and ranchers, as well as for use on service trucks where portable DC stick welding and AC generator power is needed. The new Outback 145's Kohler engine features a cast-iron cylinder liner for long engine life as well as automatic shutdown for low oil level and a three-year engine warranty. The unit delivers 145A of smooth DC output welding for use with up to 1/8in stick electrodes on steel, stainless steel, cast iron and hard-facing projects. Its single, full-range, calibrated welding output dial makes it straightforward to set the best current for any maintenance, fabrication or repair project. The

After its festoon systems began to fail as a result of corrosion, a manufacturer of lifting equipment mainly used in paper mills decided to use Igus Energy Chain cable carriers on its gantry cranes. An Energy Chain system is mounted horizontally on each machine, where it guides and protects more than 75m of power cables. The cable carriers deliver a longer service life than the festoons in the dusty, humid environment found in paper mills. As well as accommodating high ambient temperatures, which can peak at 50C, these are accompanied by up to 100 per cent humidity levels. Igus Energy Chains feature crossbars to facilitate access to the cables and can be opened using a screwdriver or by hand. In contrast to a festoon system, which allows the cables to move around in an uncontrolled way, the Energy Chain system offers excellent protection and stops the cables from moving around and catching onto other equipment or structures. This results in a reduction in downtime and also eliminates

Trumpf's new Trutool TSC100 slat cleaner is designed to remove accumulated slag resulting from stainless steel, mild steel or aluminium laser processing. It is said to be quick, clean, time saving and highly effective. Not only are the slats cleaned on the sides but also in the hard-to-reach spaces in between. The result is a clean flatbed laser machine. The Trutool TSC100 automatically adapts to different slag thicknesses and the operator can move the tool up to the pallet frame. It is said to be easy to handle and can be comfortably operated by one person. On flatbed laser machines with a pallet changer, cleaning can be in parallel to production. According to the company, clean slats are important to the process stability of the laser cutting machine. If slag is allowed to build up, not only is the quality of the process compromised but so too is the quality of the finished part. As the Trutool TSC100 makes the job straightforward, there is no need to let this happen. The sla

Tooling company Walter claims that users of the Tiger.tec Silver inserts are realising tool life increases of 100 per cent. For example, machining a variety of workpieces at similar cutting data (feeds and speeds), the Walter Tiger.tec Silver insert achieved a 100 per cent increase in tool life when machining St52-2 guide tracks (using a Xtra.tec octagon cutter) and a 75 per cent increase in tool life on the face milling of GGG50 brake callipers using a Xtra.tec shoulder mill. Tiger.tec Silver features a surface treatment that significantly reduces the in-cycle machining stresses of both wet and dry applications, thanks to its balanced combination of a high level of toughness and maximised hardness. The result is an insert that will compensate for any brittleness that may develop as a result of the CVD coating process. The CVD-Al2O3-grade coating counters any influence from thermal shock that can lead to thermal cracking at the cutting edge and minimise tribochemical wear on the flan