Machine Building

Seals and synthetic materials are key to efficient machinery

Elastic, wear-resistant, reliable, space saving and cost effective - that's what seals are supposed to be. Sealing technology is becoming increasingly important in the design of plant and machinery, as well as in helping to improve the efficiency of complex mechanical components, says Harald Peschke, Manager of Sealing Technology & Synthetic Materials at Schaeffler.

1st October 2013

Developments in level measurement technology

Charlie Sorbo, Level Product Manager for Gems Sensors and Controls, looks at the development of level measurement components and the recent innovations that are boosting performance and efficiency.

27th September 2013

Increased yields can help drive emobility uptake

The benefits of renewable energy sources are well known, and electric cars are not a new concept. However, to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels, which will be exhausted in just one century, efficient ways of mass producing the cells need to be established. The electric motor can be up to four times more efficient than the combustion engine. Given the finite nature of fossil fuels, the uptake of electric cars, or emobility as it is now called, is inevitable. However, what does this mean for automation technology? Steve Sands, Product Manager at Festo GB, reviews the current situation.

10th September 2013

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