Machine Building

Don't take any chances with surge voltages

Surge voltages are short, pulse-like voltage peaks with steep rising edges and are also known as transients. The origin of these transients can be external, for example lightning, but is much more likely to be caused by your own equipment, such as switching of motors or transformers or the interruption of a short circuit by protective measures.

10th September 2013

What are IEC 60034-1 electric motor duty cycles?

Motor Technology Ltd offers the following advice relating to duty cycles for electric motors.

7th September 2013

The big challenge for operators of ever-larger wind turbines

The increasing demand for wind energy is driving the development of bigger turbines, which require larger gearbox components. The latest component technology - in particular, separable high-capacity cylindrical roller bearings - is supporting the development of these larger turbines, says Phil Burge, Country Communication Manager at SKF.

6th September 2013

Measuring vibration for automation protection

Chris Hansford, Managing Director of Hansford Sensors, discusses the importance of preserving high levels of performance in automation equipment and how this can be achieved using reliable vibration measurement equipment.

5th September 2013

Measuring shaft torque in challenging environments

Measuring torque on rotating shafts on a test rig is one thing, but the environmental challenges of real-world applications can quickly impact on the functionality and reliability of torque transducers, as Mark Ingham of Sensor Technology explains.

31st August 2013

Sustainability and efficiency for pumps

Pumps are energy-hungry devices that make life difficult for engineering operators who are attempting to build sustainability. However, innovations in processes, management and technology are all enabling manufacturers to reduce waste and increase the productivity of pumps, and of plant as a whole. Andy Cruse of ERIKS explains how initiatives such as an organised action plan will significantly maximise pump efficiency.

30th August 2013

Vibration monitoring in marine engine management

Challenges such as rising fuel prices and more rigorous emissions regulations have posed problems for marine operators in recent years. In the face of such challenges, a proactive vibration monitoring programme is one of the most effective options that can be applied, says Chris Hansford, Managing Director, Hansford Sensors.

28th August 2013

Integrated modular systems are key to precise gas handling

The precise metering and controlling of gases has become one of the most crucial operations in processes across all industry types and applications: from medical equipment to laser and plasma cutters; to heat treatment and analytical technology; food processing and packaging to air handling and fuel cell technology - to name a few. The technology to achieve the required levels of control is complex, involving control of the widest range of gases, including toxic and aggressive types, often in harsh, hazardous environments; sometimes, in medicals for example, the technology makes all the difference between life and death.

27th August 2013

Cost-effective vibration monitoring for smaller plant

Russell King, Managing Director of Sensonics, discusses how vibration monitoring can be implemented cost-effectively even on smaller plant such as pumps and fans, and introduces his company's VEL/GDC electro-dynamic transducer.

21st August 2013

Remanufacture: extending bearing life

Over more than a century, bearings have evolved into ever-more robust and reliable components that can function in the most contaminated conditions. Indeed, says Phil Burge, Country Communication Manager for SKF, many bearings have such integrity that they can now be remanufactured to cut costs and boost sustainability even further.

21st August 2013