Designfax – Technology for OEM Design Engineers was launched as an exclusive eMagazine in October 2005 following 25 successful years in print. Subscribers to the weekly publication (48 issues a year) are high-level OEM product design engineers and engineering managers who operate in a broad range of manufacturing industries, including automotive, aerospace, appliances, medical equipment, transportation, computer process controls, industrial equipment, and more. Primary content focuses on the latest exciting applications and products for Electrical/Electronic, Mechanical, Motion Control, Fluid Power, and Materials engineering, including articles on powerful software programs that serve as a primary engineering tool. Take a look at what Designfax offers and then subscribe.
| February 18, 2025 | Volume 21 Issue 07 |
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 | Did you know that desiccants can be custom molded to fit or strengthen your design?
AGM's injection molded desiccants allow engineers to ensure moisture protection in their design without worrying about space and shape constraints. Our molded desiccants are built to customers' specified sizes, shapes, and thicknesses, and may be used as structural components in designs. These desiccants are comprised of 4A molecular sieve in addition to proprietary binders, and thus deliver high adsorption capacity at even low humidity levels. Applications may include aerospace, medical devices, and optics equipment. AGM can fill molded desiccant orders in either high or low quantities. Samples are available.
Discover the strength of molded desiccants today
or speak with an AGM engineer at (520) 881-2130. |
 | Aluminum turned transparent using tiny droplets
Researchers in the Philippines and Japan have devised an easier way to make very thin sheets of aluminum transparent. The see-through aluminum oxide (TAlOx) is incredibly hard and resistant to scratches, making it a great candidate for protective coatings on electronics, optical sensors, and solar panels.
Read the full article. |
 | Achieve higher loads with a round wire Wave Spring
Wavo® springs are produced from round-section wire to provide higher loads while maintaining the accurate loading found in wave springs. As an alternative to Belleville Springs, the Wavo provides similar loads but with an accurate, predictable spring rate. Available in carbon and stainless steel from stock, sizes range from 1/2" to 6" diameters. Free samples are also available!
Learn more. |
 | Uses of thermal cameras in manufacturing expand: This time around to papermaking
What can you so with FLIR thermal cameras to improve your industrial processes? Recent developments in thermal signature analytics have expanded the applications of thermal cameras beyond routine troubleshooting. In papermaking, they now contribute to paper machine control, energy usage benchmarking, wet streak detection, and the identification and prediction of certain classes of sheet breaks. Maybe you'll get some ideas for your applications.
Read the full article. |
 | Cool! Internal threading in hard materials now possible!
INSACO has a new capability where they can machine an internal thread in ceramic, sapphire, quartz, and other "hard" materials. This advance pushes the boundaries of what's possible to support advanced applications that demand high precision and complexity. Ultra-hard materials are alternatives for when metal can't do the job. Ideal for aerospace, medical, and industrial applications.
Learn more. |
 | Threaded inserts for metal with pre-applied adhesive
E-Z LOK™ Threaded Inserts for metal are ideal for repairing or reinforcing threaded holes in soft metals such as aluminum, magnesium, and cast iron. External threads are standard size and pitch, so they can be installed with standard drills and taps. These inserts will not back out or vibrate loose. The pre-applied, microencapsulated adhesive begins to set immediately upon installation, and the newly installed insert is fastener-ready in 3 to 5 min. Available in Carbon Steel and Stainless Steel. Thin Wall, Standard Wall, Extra Heavy Wall, Screw Locking, and Automotive designs. Assortment and installation kits available.
Learn more
or contact Kyle Lindsly-Roach at 310.323.5613 x221. |
 | Advanced motion controller for BLDC motors
The PCR 56/06 EC SD from Portescap is an integrated hardware and software package for single-axis control of brushless DC motors. It features a user-friendly Windows-based software suite with autotuning capabilities to reduce setup times. With a power supply of up to 56V and a continuous current capability of 5.5A, along with Hall sensor and encoder feedback options, the PCR 56/06 EC SD meets various application requirements with ease. A standout feature is the module-only option, which allows the controller to be mounted directly onto the application's PCB to facilitate a smooth transition from prototyping to series production. Ideal for the Aerospace, Automation, Industrial Power Tools, Medical, and Robotics markets.
Learn more. |
 | Eco-friendly thermoplastic: Light, rigid, strong, damping
Polyplastics has launched PLASTRON® LFT (Long Fiber-Reinforced Thermoplastic) RA627P, an eco-friendly composite of polypropylene (PP) resin and long cellulose fiber that delivers low density, high specific rigidity, high impact strength, and excellent damping for a range of applications including audio components and housings of industrial components. LFT exhibits 10% lower density than 30% short glass fiber-reinforced PP resin, roughly the same flexural modulus, and a specific rigidity that is higher.
Learn more. |
 | EMI suppression capacitors with enhanced humidity resistance
TDK Corporation has launched the EPCOS B3292xM3/N3 series of X2 EMI suppression capacitors. These new components are 20% smaller than previous models and meet Grade III Test B standards for temperature, humidity, and bias (THB). Their compact size and enhanced durability suit space-constrained, high-humidity environments, especially for "across-the-line" applications in automotive and industrial settings. Applications include automotive on-board chargers, uninterruptible power supplies, and hybrid inverters for energy storage systems.
Learn more. |
| | Most popular last issue |
 | First-ever Subaru Forester Hybrid: Impressive by the numbers
Are you ready for almost 600 miles on a single tank? Subaru's first-ever Forester Hybrid integrates a 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER engine and electric motors with the Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and Lineartronic continuously variable transmission. It boasts up to 40% better fuel efficiency compared to its non-hybrid counterparts.
Read the full article. |
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| | Videos+: Technologies and inspiration in action | What can you do with touchless magnetic angle sensors?
Novotechnik has put together an informative video highlighting real-world applications for their RFC, RFE, and RSA Series touchless magnetic angle sensors. You may be surprised at the variety of off-highway, marine, material handling, and industrial uses. You'll learn how they work (using a Hall effect microprocessor to detect position) and their key advantages, including eliminated wear and tear on these non-mechanical components. We love when manufacturers provide such useful examples.
View the video. |
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