| January 26, 2021 | Volume 17 Issue 04 |
|
 | Clean up your actuator
It's not a matter of if hydraulics will leak, but when. Leaks are messy, potentially dangerous and can contaminate processes. In contrast, electric actuator systems are not only clean, they are also flexible, precise and maintenance-free. Find out additional factors that affect the performance and cost of each technology and decide which is best for your application.
Download our white paper: "Electric rod actuators vs. hydraulic cylinders: A comparison of the pros and cons of each technology."
Get this informative resource. (No registration required) |
 | Radical plane design could reduce NOx emissions by 95%
Engineers at MIT have come up with a concept for airplane propulsion that they estimate would eliminate 95% of aviation's NOx emissions. The concept is inspired by emissions-control systems used in man heavy-duty diesel ground transportation vehicles, which use post-combustion emissions-control systems to reduce the NOx generated by engines. There's a big catch, though.
Read the full article. |
 | Engineer's Toolbox: Self-clinching fasteners
design tips
Dozens of types and thousands of variations of self-clinching fasteners (steel, stainless steel, or aluminum) have been engineered over the years. Leon M. Attarian of PennEngineering provides three mini case studies where manufacturers benefited greatly by switching to self-clinching fasteners in their assemblies. This article is filled with insightful tips and suggestions.
Read the full article. |
 | Ready to rumble: All-new Ford F-150 Tremor
It may not be a high-end Ford Raptor, but if you like to do some off-roading the new Ford F-150 Tremor may be all you need -- and it'll cost a lot less too. The ready-to-rumble Tremor boasts a 5.5-ft box, 400-hp 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, 10-speed automatic transmission, standard four-wheel drive, and an impressive array of super-capable all-terrain tech -- including some of what is available on the new Bronco.
Read the full article. |
 | Researchers build super-hard metals from nanoparticles
Brown University researchers have shown a way to make bulk metals by smashing tiny metal nanoparticles together, which allows for customized grain structures and improved mechanical and other properties. Better yet, the resulting metals were up to four times harder than naturally occurring metal structures.
Read the full article. |
 | Industry 4.0 sensor solutions for brake applications
Nexen Group has just announced the release of its Industry 4.0 Sensors included with the Zero-Backlash Spring Engaged (ZSE) brake, Servo Motor brake, and Slide Rail brake families. The inductive proximity sensor technology, integrated with Nexen brakes, provides important brake status and operational data to maximize machine efficiency. Utilizing IO-Link v1.0 Fieldbus connectivity, the sensors detect brake engagement or disengagement, indicate brake wear, aid in precise positioning, and provide critical preventative maintenance information.
Learn about Nexen's new Smart ZSE Brakes and more. |
 | Linear motion precision modules from Bosch Rexroth
Bosch Rexroth's new Precision Modules called PSK - Gen 2 combine swiftness and dynamics with high precision. These latest generation linear motion units are ideal for semiconductors, machine tool, and electronics applications. They are available in three sizes and are mounted on a smooth, space-saving, and rigid precision steel profile frame with integrated tracks. The precision ball screw nut and linear carriage assembly are sealed from both sides with Rexroth ball screw assembly seals, so the risk of lubricants escaping outside is significantly reduced.
Learn more. |
 | Reliable pressure-boosting system
The VR SpecPAK Pressure Boosting System is a new pump and drive package that combines the benefits of Franklin Electric's high-performance VR Series Vertical Multi-Stage Pumps with premium-efficiency TEFC motors and variable frequency drives specifically designed for pump applications. Users can easily configure the system to comply with pressure-boosting needs in most commercial, industrial, or multi-residential applications for constant-pressure operation with several available options according to flow needs, control enclosures, interfaces (Touchscreen HMI/PLC), and additional communication ports. Operation range up to 650 gpm and 350 PSI of boost pressure. Many more good features.
Learn more. |
 | Cool Tools: Hexagon RS6 high-speed laser scanner
The handheld or arm-mounted RS6 laser scanner available from Exact Metrology is designed for high-speed and high-accuracy scanning. When compared to other scanners, the RS6 has a 3x faster frame rate, a 30% wider laser stripe, and excellent scanning performance on difficult surfaces (including glossy black plastic automotive body parts or molded carbon fiber components). Its unique SHINE technology allows you to scan 99% of parts without touching the scanner exposure. It scans up to 1.2 million points/sec with a scan rate of 300 Hz.
Learn more. |
| | Most popular last issue |
 | Super-cool muscle mash-up: Aston Martin Victor
Are two supercars mashed together better than one original? In the case of the one-off Aston Martin Victor, we'd have to say yes! Like some delicious mega peanut-butter-and-chocolate creation, the Victor combines elements of the track-only Aston Martin Vulcan and the company's flagship One-77 sports cars to create a throwback 70s- and 80s-inspired 847-hp muscle car that is super cool and modern.
Read the full article. |
 | Top 10 Army advances of 2020
The U.S. Army Research Lab has the mission to operationalize science for transformational overmatch. The lab's leading scientists picked the coolest top 10 advances from 2020 -- including weapons, AI, communications, drone tech, and more -- to showcase how Army scientists and researchers are supporting the Soldier of the future.
Read the full article. |
|
| | Videos+: Technologies and inspiration in action | Large Cartesian handling system overview
Festo North America Customer Solutions has put together a very informative video run-through of a 7.3-m-long sorting-and-packaging Cartesian dual x-axis system that can handle up to 50 kg. The video highlights gantry system construction, benefits, gearboxes, motors, bearing considerations, rail types, and more. Very thorough -- a real nice job.
View the video. |
 |
|
|
