Machine Building

Glossary of terms: permanent magnet motors

This glossary of terms relating to permanent-magnet electric motor technology has been compiled by Bill Bertram, Managing Director of REGAL C&I Europe.

19th February 2014

Usability and ergonomics of human-machine interfaces

This article discusses the benefits offered by the latest generation of human-machine interfaces (HMIs) thanks to technological developments that have enhanced ergonomics and usability.

19th February 2014

Selecting bearings for industrial gearboxes

The requirement to improve the efficiency and performance of mechanical gearboxes has led to more powerful designs which, in turn, require bearings designed to deliver long service life. Understanding the role and design criteria for the different types of bearing within a gearbox is the key to ensuring the correct specification is used when constructing or repairing a gearbox, whatever the size. NSK is now using advanced materials and live predictive models to find the optimum product.

18th February 2014

Where will heat treatment be in five years' time?

The need to develop high-quality, cost-effective products is driving the global heat treating market to grow over 7 per cent, according to a new report on the Global Heat Treating Market 2012-2016, but where will heat treatment be in five years' time? Kevin Robinson, Business Development Manager at Invensys Eurotherm offers his predictions for an industry undergoing a range of challenges as well as opportunities.

14th February 2014

Benefits of Thin Client architectures in manufacturing

Rob Dinsmore, Product Manager for Availability at industrial IT provider SolutionsPT, looks at the benefits of using Thin Client computing within a manufacturing environment..

13th February 2014

Why use a retaining compound?

When engineering adhesives are employed in cylindrical assemblies, to bond one part inserted into another, they are known as retaining compounds or retainers. They are commonly used for installing bearings in housings or onto shafts, fixing gears and pulleys onto shafts, retaining cylinder liners, sealing engine and boiler core plugs, fixing oil filler tubes in castings and restoring the accuracy to worn machine tools. In many instances secondary machining operations can be avoided and a more reliable assembly is achieved.

12th February 2014

Product recalls emphasise the importance of testing

Despite a multiplicity of tests that manufacturers have to perform on electrical products before they can go on sale, there are always some with defects that slip through the net.

7th February 2014

Trouble shooter's guide to motor maintenance and repair

A failed or underperforming motor can bring a busy production line to a complete halt, compromise a critical airflow, devastate a water supply or lead to any number of other issues. Here, Andrew McIntyre of TSJ Industrial in Cleckheaton, West Yorkshire uses his wealth of field experience to suggest some simple solutions to potential problems.

6th February 2014

Motor energy efficiency regulations tightened further

Philip Crowe, the Marketing Manager at Bauer Gear Motor GmbH, explains the new European Eco-Design energy efficiency regulations for electric motor drives.

6th February 2014

What's changed in BS EN 62061:2005+A1:2013

What has changed and what is new in the amendment to BS EN 62061? David Collier, the Business Development Manager at Pilz Automation Technology, reviews BS EN 62061:2005+A1:2013.

29th January 2014