Machine Building

When two-speed motors are the best option

Two-speed motors are an often-overlooked technology, but they can be a good choice of prime mover when robustness, simplicity and low cost are required, alongside operational flexibility. Jerry Hodek of Wellingborough-based industrial motor specialists, Rotor UK, explains where they fit into the spectrum of drives.

22nd July 2014

Metal vs. plastic: specification of large outdoor enclosures

Large, outdoor enclosures are a necessary aspect of the general infrastructure of day-to-day life. Used to house vital control panels and electrical connections, these enclosures must be able to withstand all that is thrown at them to protect their contents; this includes extreme temperatures, rain, UV exposure and even vandalism attempts. Due to its inherent strength, steel has traditionally been the material of choice despite several shortcomings; but can glass-reinforced polyester (GRP) offer a robust alternative which offers protection where steel cannot?

22nd July 2014

Pneumatic cushioning: save costs with the right adjustment

Productivity, energy efficiency, and a long service life: these three requirements are at the top of the list for end users when it comes to pneumatic automation systems. And most of the time just the right adjustment is sufficient to meet these requirements precisely. With optimally adjusted pneumatic cushioning, machine manufacturers and system integrators can shorten cycle times by up to 40%, increasing productivity accordingly. At the same time, they often lower air consumption by more than 50% compared with cylinders with pre-adjusted cushioning.

21st July 2014

Grease: How to avoid economic meltdown

A tub of grease costs next to nothing. A seized motor can bring a production line to a standstill, resulting in enormous accumulating losses. Magda Bartosova, Technical Advisor of Wellingborough-based motor specialist Rotor UK, says that remembering to lubricate electric motors will probably get the company accountant whining about trickle-spending, but...

18th July 2014

Measuring viscosity wirelessly

If precise mixing is a crucial process variable, viscosity measurement may be the most accurate way to ensure optimum performance. But rotating mixers can lead to very tangled wiring, so here Mark Ingham of Sensor Technology Ltd looks at wireless options.

18th July 2014

Servo technology is moving to a new paradigm

A long-standing engineers' dream is to be able to assemble sophisticated, high-function, multi-axis servo systems from a kit of parts with no more difficulty than clicking Lego bricks together. Gerard Bush of Inmoco in Daventry says reality hasn't quite caught up with fantasy, but it is moving in the right direction.

9th July 2014

Conformance testing ensures clear open communications

Open control and automation networks, upon which devices from many vendors can be used, are increasingly preferred throughout most industrial sectors. John Browett, General Manager of the CLPA Europe explains the role and importance of conformance testing.

1st July 2014

Optimised seals for wind turbine rotor, blade and tower bearings

Wind turbines must operate reliably in a diverse range of environmental conditions, both onshore and offshore. By optimising the bearing design, lubrication and sealing for wind turbine rotors, blades and tower, reliability and operating life are maximised, says Dr Steve Lacey, Engineering Manager at Schaeffler UK.

27th June 2014

Specialised coatings improve enclosure performance

Specifying an enclosure for your application requires an understanding of the hazards that are likely to be encountered once installed, as well as the performance requirements that will be expected. Considerations such as tensile strength, security and ingress protection are relatively straightforward, and most well-manufactured enclosures should provide the necessary performance. But, how can an enclosure offer protection from extreme temperatures, electrical interference or any one of the thousands of other complications which can arise in industrial applications? Chris Lloyd, Spelsberg UK Managing Director, explains how specialised after-market coatings can enhance an enclosure's performance in unexpected ways.

26th June 2014

Explaining the Physical Agents Directive EMF 2013/35/EU

Paul Laidler, Business Director for Machinery Safety at TUV SUD Product Service, explains what machine builders need to know about the Physical Agents Directive EMF 2013/35/EU.

24th June 2014