Fluid Power Journal January 2019 by Innovative Designs & Publishing, Inc.

January 2019

Let Us Explore... WORK IT!

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THEN AND NOW

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FLUID POWER PHOTO + VIDEO CONTEST

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IN THIS ISSUE

JANUARY 2019 VOLUME 26 • ISSUE 1

Features 5

Preparing For Success: The Hydraulic Specialist Certification Study Manual Update

6 Take Your Best Shots 2019 Photo & Video Contest

8 Filler Filter/Breathers

14 A Cost-Effective Alternative: Multiple-Position Pneumatic Linear Slides 32 Strong, Tough, Reliable: Linear Displacement Transducers Take on the Most-Demanding Applications 34 Vacuum Pick And Place: High-Speed Cycle Time Reduction

Departments 32

Publisher’s Note: The information provided in this publication is for informational purposes only. While all efforts have been taken to ensure the technical accuracy of the material enclosed, Fluid Power Journal is not responsible for the availability, accuracy, currency, or reliability of any information, statement, opinion, or advice contained in a third party’s material. Fluid Power Journal will not be liable for any loss or damage caused by reliance on information obtained in this publication.

4 Notable Words 7 Then And Now 9 Figure It Out 10 Professional Development 12 Component Showcase 16 IFPS Update 22 Product Spotlight 26 Compressed Air Systems 27 NFPA Update 37 Industry News 38 Classifieds

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N OTA B L E WO R D S

PUBLISHER Innovative Designs & Publishing, Inc. 3245 Freemansburg Avenue, Palmer, PA 18045-7118 Tel: 800-730-5904 or 610-923-0380 Fax: 610-923-0390 • Email: Art@FluidPowerJournal.com www.FluidPowerJournal.com

Giving Back And Paying It Forward By Timothy White, CFPAI/AJPP, CFPS, CFPECS, CFPMIH, CFPMMH, CFPMIP, CFPMT, CFPMM, The Boeing Company

I RECENTLY READ a quote that got me thinking about how we interact with others in the fluid power industry:

approved for a couple of years. They have volunteered their time to write the merit badge handbook, as well as mentoring Boy Scouts while conducting workshops to teach basic Life’s most persistent and fluid power. urgent question is: What are Whatever way you give you doing for others?” back to your community, I —Martin Luther King, Jr. implore you to think about ways to further the fluid I know many of us think this way in our power industry. This year, my daughter is personal lives, whether it is through your in a robotics club and I am reaching out to church, family, coaching, or other ways of the instructor to see if I can talk to the kids giving back to others. But what about our about fluid power and how they can use professional lives? For me, I get the oppor- it on their robotic designs. I am currently tunity to work with some of the greatest exploring tours that will show them the people in the fluid power industry, the IFPS different applications of fluid power. If I Board of Directors. can get one kid interested in the fluid power Many of these individuals give a lot of industry, I will call it a success. their time to help further the fluid power Not all giving back has to occur outside industry. Some of them give back by being of work. Think about new people in your mentors for high school robotics students work area that might need a mentor. Take or they serve as mentors for other fluid new employees under your wing and show power competitions. Others give by vol- them your passion for industry. unteering to help rewrite study manuals I ask you to look around and see how that support IFPS certifications. you can give back to move the wonderOne of the biggest ways I personally ful industry forward. Can you help a new see to give back to others while expand- co-worker, school club, or volunteer to help ing the fluid power industry is through the the IFPS on a committee? Use your imagBoy Scouts Merit Badge that members of ination! I am sure there are ways I haven’t the IFPS board have been working to get even thought of yet. 

Founders: Paul and Lisa Prass Associate Publisher: Bob McKinney Editor: Candace Nicholson Technical Editor: Dan Helgerson, CFPAI/AJPP, CFPS, CFPECS, CFPSD, CFPMT, CFPCC - CFPSOS LLC Art Director: Quynh Vo Eastern Region Acct Executive: Norma Abrunzo Western Region Acct Executive: Cindy Hamm Director of Creative Services: Erica Montes Accounting: Donna Bachman, Sarah Varano Circulation Manager: Andrea Karges INTERNATIONAL FLUID POWER SOCIETY 1930 East Marlton Pike, Suite A-2, Cherry Hill, NJ 08003-2141 Tel: 856-489-8983 • Fax: 856-424-9248 Email: AskUs@ifps.org • Web: www.ifps.org 2019 BOARD OF DIRECTORS President & Chairperson: Timothy M. White, CFPAI/AJPP, CFPS, CFPECS, CFPMIH, CFPMMH, CFPMIP, CFPMT, CFPMM - The Boeing Company Immediate Past President: Dean Houdeshell, PE, CFPAI/AJPP, CFPE, CFPS, CFPIHT, CFPMHT, CFPMHM - Cemen Tech Inc. First Vice President: Jeff Kenney, CFPIHM, CFPMHM, CFPMHT - Hydradyne, LLC Treasurer: Jeff Hodges, CFPAI/AJPP, CFPMHM - Altec Industries, Inc. Vice President Certification: Denis Poirier, Jr., CFPAI/AJPP, CFPHS, CFPIHM, CFPCC Eaton Corporation Vice President Marketing & Public Relations: Scott Nagro, CFPS HydraForce, Inc. Vice President Education: Kenneth Dulinski, CFPAI/AJPP, CFPECS, CFPHS, CFPMIH, CFPMMH - Macomb Community College Vice President Membership: Rocky Phoenix, CFPMHT, CFPMHM - Open Loop Energy, Inc. DIRECTORS-AT-LARGE Chauntelle Baughman, CFPHS - OneHydrauics, Inc. John A. Bibaeff, Jr., CFPHS, CFPCC - Lamb Services, Inc. Randy Bobbitt, CFPHS - Danfoss Power Solutions Elisabeth DeBenedetto, CFPS - Argo-Hytos Brandon Gustafson, PE, CFPE, CFPS, CFPIHT, CFPMHM - Graco, Inc. Lynn Nordquist, CFPS - Skarda Equipment Company James O’Halek, CFPAI/AJPP, CFPMM, CFPCC - The Boeing Company Robert Post, CFPHS - AFS Technology Edwin Rybarczyk, CFPAI/AJPP, CFPS - E. R. Consultants, Inc. Scott Sardina, PE, CFPAI, CFPHS - Waterclock Engineering Mohaned Shahin, CFPS - Parker Hannifin Randy Smith, CFPS - Northrop Grumman Corp. HONORARY DIRECTORS Paul Prass - Innovative Designs & Publishing Elizabeth Rehfus, CFPE, CFPS, Robert Sheaf, CFPAI/AJPP - CFC Industrial Training IFPS STAFF Executive Director: Donna Pollander, ACA Communications Manager: Adele Kayser Technical Director: Thomas Blansett, CFPS, CFPAI Certification Logistics Manager: Susan Apostle Certification Coordinator: Kyle Pollander Bookkeeper: Diane McMahon Administrative Assistant: Beth Borodziuk

Fluid Power Journal (ISSN# 1073-7898) is the official publication of the International Fluid Power Society published bi-monthly with four supplemental issues, including a Systems Integrator Directory, Off-Highway Suppliers Directory, Tech Directory, and Manufacturers Directory, by Innovative Designs & Publishing, Inc., 3245 Freemansburg Avenue, Palmer, PA 18045-7118. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part of any material in this publication is acceptable with credit. Publishers assume no liability for any information published. We reserve the right to accept or reject all advertising material and will not guarantee the return or safety of unsolicited art, photographs or manuscripts.

JANUARY 2019

WWW.FLUIDPOWERJOURNAL.COM • WWW.IFPS.ORG

PREPARING FOR

SUCCESS

The Hydraulic Specialist Certification Study Manual Update

By Denis Poirier, Jr., CFPAI/AJPP, CFPS, CFPCC, CFPHS, CFPIHM, Vice President of Certification, The Eaton Corporation – Hydraulics Group

dvancements in materials and manufacturing combined with the integration of electronics and software have made the hydraulics industry more complicated than ever before. It can be a challenge identifying hydraulic professionals with the appropriate knowledge base for the tasks which lie ahead. Successful completion of the International Fluid Power Society’s Hydraulic Specialist fluid power certification can assist in this process. As an industry leader, in third-party certification, an IFPS fluid power certification is not just an individual achievement, but it communicates to others within the fluid power industry a certain level of competence.

Just as the process of applying fluid power has changed, so has our knowledge of how people learn. Put simply, not everyone responds to the same material in the same way. For example, some adults prefer to read in a typical textbook fashion, that is, they respond to the action of turning pages, using a highlighter, and writing notes by hand. Others prefer reading and making notes with an electronic document. In both cases, the transfer of information [the learning process] is limited by an individual’s ability to apply what they have learned from a single source of information; in this case, what they read. For many, this is the least effective method for learning.

IN RESPONSE TO THE CHALLENGES POSED BY SINGLE-SOURCE DELIVERY METHODS, THE IFPS IS PROUD TO OFFER ADDITIONAL PRODUCTS TO ENHANCE THE LEARNING PROCESS.

ANIMATED HYDRAULIC CIRCUITS

The first of which is the creation of animated hydraulic circuits. In this offering, every circuit in the Hydraulic Specialist Study Manual is displayed in color. Additionally, each schematic is animated showing the path of fluid flow and includes notes (bullet points), but is not narrated. These schematics can be purchased as one complete package and used in conjunction with the Hydraulic Specialist Study Manual to enrich the learning experience by bringing the schematics to life.

INTERACTIVE STUDY MANUAL

If having control over an immersed learning environment is more your style, then the Hydraulic Specialist Interactive Study Manual is for you. This fully interactive self-paced learning system uses audio narration in conjunction with animated schematics to walk you through the Hydraulic Specialist Study Manual one outcome at a time. Developed with the e-learning user in mind, this program appeals to the multisensory learner and can be used in conjunction with a printed study manual to expand on the information provided in text. Interactive practice tests and quizzes are also included.

INSTRUCTOR TRAINING SESSION

If those options do not support your style learning, another option would be to attend an instructor-led review session. This environment appeals to the maximum number of senses and works well for the majority of all learners. There are visual, textile, and audio stimulation. Additionally, you work with an Accredited Instructor, can ask questions, work through practice exams, and interact with others who may share the same experiences and challenges that you do. This is typically the most effective method for knowledge transfer, and in many instances, this is also the most expensive option, as it can require both travel and time away from work. 

Regardless of your learning style, the IFPS is here to support you every step of the way as you work toward your goal. Visit www.ifps.org for more details. WWW.IFPS.ORG • WWW.FLUIDPOWERJOURNAL.COM

JANUARY 2019

Take Your Best

SHOTS 2019 PHOTO & VIDEO CONTEST

he IFPS and the Fluid Power Journal are excited to announce the addition of a video contest to its annual photo contest. Both contests will run January 1 through March 31, 2019. The winners will be announced on June 19th – Fluid Power Professionals’ Day! DID SOMEONE SAY PRIZE MONEY? Absolutely! 1st place - $250, 2nd place - $100, 3rd place - $50, People’s Choice - $100 PHOTO CATEGORIES: 1. New Perspective: Photos that show fluid power used in novel ways and from views not everyone gets to see. 2. Teamwork: Photos of people working together using fluid power to get the job done. 3. Fun with Fluid Power: Photos that capture the joy of using, learning, or teaching about hydraulics and pneumatics. 4. The Muscle of Fluid Power: Photos that capture the might of fluid power in action. VIDEO CATEGORIES: Contest submissions must be 90 seconds or less in length. 1. What Is Fluid Power? Explain fluid power to someone outside the industry. 2. Benefits of Certification: How has certification helped in your career? 3. Safety: Everyday safety solutions. ONE PHOTO/VIDEO PER CATEGORY PER PERSON

Visit www.fluidpowerjournal.com to enter the contests.

www.fluidpowerjournal.com

www.nfpa.com

JANUARY 2019 2019

www.ifps.org

www.cfpa.ca

WWW.FLUIDPOWERJOURNAL.COM • WWW.IFPS.ORG

T H E N A N D N OW he Journal is celebrating a 25-year milestone in 2019 and reflecting on how far the industry has come since the birth of the magazine. This new column is dedicated to showcasing the growth of fluid power technology. Each article features a product and how it has transformed from its early years. If you have a product to share with the Journal readers, please contact Candace Nicholson at cnicholson@fluidpowerjournal.com.

CRDV, CRDV/S, and CRDV/S with WiFi By Patrick Byce, Marketing Coordinator, Spartan Scientific

SPARTAN SCIENTIFIC, an American manufacturing facility located in Northeast Ohio, specializes and builds fluid control products within the automation industry. Spartan has learned through their many years of experience that, not only the automation industry, but all industries are constantly evolving. New ideas accompanied by new innovations and technologies are regularly assimilating into different types of businesses and manufacturers as efficiency, productivity, performance, and cost savings continue to stay at the forefront of nearly every industry. Air Compressors are used every day within an incredibly diverse range of industries—industries that are all striving to be more efficient, proficient, and economical. Today, we see that air compressors are core components of engineering, manufacturing, construction, agriculture, mechanical work, factory assembly lines, transportation, and many more. A common characteristic of all air compressors is the natural accumulation of water. In fact, water accumulation contributes to a majority of problems and maintenance issues within many industries. Those who have experience in engineering and construction are likely to be aware of this. One of Spartan Scientific’s first products developed was the Series CRDV, also known as the “Condensation Removal Drain Valve.” When Spartan Scientific came into existence back in 1987, they were fully aware of this age-old problem and understood what kind of consequences would transpire if the natural buildup of water began to overtake an air compressor and its air lines by not being drained frequently or correctly. By addressing the problem of excess water, the Series CRDV Condensation Removal Drain Valve dramatically improves the life of air compressor systems, which leads to increased efficiency, productivity, and cost savings. The Series CRDV makes it so that the water accumulation can be drained and removed at any point WWW.IFPS.ORG • WWW.FLUIDPOWERJOURNAL.COM

THEN AND NOW

within an air system, using a solid-state timer and a proven solenoid valve operator. As technology has evolved, Spartan Scientific continued to make positive changes to keep up with their customers’ changing requirements. The Series CRDV has proven to be a great product, but there were ways to increase efficiency even more. The Series CRDV will drain water build-up after a set amount of time, which means that certain conditions, such as low humidity, would generate much less water than normal to high humidity. This would cause the Series CRDV to open up and purge the compressor regardless of the amount of water present in the air compressor. Purging more often than necessary causes air loss within the compressor

system. Over time, air loss will add up and lead to a loss of substantial amounts of money. To combat this problem, Spartan Scientific developed the Series CRDV/S in 2008. This enhanced drain valve took the same underlying principle of draining water build up, but made it so that the process would not cause a compressor system to undergo unnecessary air loss. The key component within the Series CRDV/S is its self-learning mode that will open the valve to drain only when it senses the presence of water. Other features of the CRDV/S include a 24-hour self-cleaning cycle, status indicator lights for easy maintenance, and an environment-resistant design. In 2019, Spartan Scientific will be releasing an enhanced and more evolved version of their Series CRDV/S. This version is a WiFi-enabled drain valve that uses IoT (Internet of Things) technology. When asking Spartan Scientific’s Chief Engineer Phil Muntean why IoT technology would be an important feature to potential consumers, he explained: “It’s the freedom. There are no boundaries and you don’t have to be restricted to your facility to monitor any of your equipment. You can be at home sitting in your living room watching television and view real-time data that tracks any type of unusual behavior or inconsistencies that your systems might be experiencing. Imagine receiving an email or text message alert, sent directly to your phone, that notifies you that your system is acting erratic or that it may need your attention soon. The IoT CRDV/S drain valve will be able to prevent problems before ever happening.” The idea of IoT technology might be new to some, but manufacturers, businesses, and organizations alike are using IoT technology in a diverse variety of industries to operate more efficiently with higher cost savings and to better understand their customers, which in turn will enhance customer service, improve decision-making, and increase the value of their business.  JANUARY 2019

Filler BREATHERS Filter By Dan Helgerson, CFPAI/AJPP, CFPS, CFPECS, CFPSD, CFPMT, CFPCC, CFPSOS LLC

once worked at a blow-molding facility with 16 hydraulic power units. The units had been made back in the 1960s, purchased at auction, then returned to “like new” condition. The “like new” condition was that of the original design which produced a lot of heat. The heat made the seals brittle, creating leaks and requiring a continuous effort to keep the reservoirs “topped off.” Each reservoir had a filler port with a cap on it. In the interest of convenience, the maintenance team would often leave the fill port uncovered. Fluid was transferred from a 55-gallon drum to a 5-gallon pail. The technician would then bring the pail and a funnel to the reservoir and pour the fluid into the fill port. Now, most of us know that the major cause of failure in our fluid power systems, both hydraulic and pneumatic, is contamination. Back in 2008, there was an article in Fluid Power Journal titled “Let’s Keep It Clean.” It is hard to “Keep 8

JANUARY 2019

filter to receive the transferred fluid. In either case, no unfiltered fluid enters the reservoir. However, many users of hydraulic equipment are untrained and unaware of the hazards of using unfiltered fluid. Small reservoirs are usually made with one fill port, so it is the only location for adding fluid. Similar to the blow-molding facility, little attention is paid to pre-filIt Clean” when a major source of tering the fluid. To minimize the contamination may be the new potential hazard, many manufacfluid that is added to the reservoir. turers make filters that replace the The article stated: filler caps. These may be provided as standard equip“We have mentioned some of the ways contamment along with the inants get into the fluid such as normal wear, reservoir, and they particles that are “breathed” in as the level in do add a layer of prothe reservoir rises and falls, and the contaminatection for both the tion from particles etch and jam in the system. transfer of air and the An often-overlooked source of contamination is adding of hydraulic the new fluid that is added to the reservoir.The fluid. These filters are standard cleanliness level of new fluid does not good at keeping out meet the requirement for most of your compolarge contaminates, nents.That shiny new 55-gallon drum of fluid but do not prevent sitting on the loading dock is likely to have a lot the particles that are of particles in it, and remember; you can’t see less than 25 microns them! The fluid should always pass through a (the ones that do the most damage) from filter as it is added to a reservoir.” entering the fluid. The International Fluid Power Because these filters are used to Society has made it a point to replace the filler caps and can filter emphasize both the need and the air that is “breathed” by the resthe techniques for maintaining ervoir, they are often referred to as fluid cleanliness levels that meet Filler/Breathers. the requirements of the system. A The International Fluid Power well-designed hydraulic system Society encourages the industry will include assurance that only to recognize the need to properly properly filtered fluid is added to filter the fluid added to the reserthe reservoir. This may be by means voir. The devices that replace the of a filter cart that is used to trans- filler caps and are used to filter the fer fluid from storage directly to air breathed by the reservoir, as well the fill port of the reservoir, or the as prevent large items from falling required use of a port in the return into the reservoir, are referred to as Filter/Breathers, not as Filler/ Breathers. This might seem like a

nitpicky nuance, but the difference in connotation is important. If an untrained maintenance person is given the instruction to fill the new reservoir, it would only seem reasonable to use the part called the Filler/ Breather as the location to add the fluid. Removing the cap would reveal a nice, shiny mesh screen and, without proper training, it would seem only logical that adding fluid here would prevent any bad stuff from getting into the reservoir. When there is provision for properly adding fluid through the return filter, accurately referring to the device as a Filter/Breather may discourage someone from using the wrong location as the fill point. When this is the only opening to the reservoir, having a Filter/ Breather forces the question as to where and how the fluid is added. To achieve certification as a fluid power professional, a candidate must properly identify and describe fluid power symbols. The Filter/Breather must be properly recognized and not described as a Filler/Breather. Many excellent manufacturers still market their Filter/Breathers as Filler/Breathers because this is familiar to the industry, and it does define the location where the filter is to be installed. But for clarity and consistency, it would be best to describe them as Filter/Breathers. 

WWW.FLUIDPOWERJOURNAL.COM • WWW.IFPS.ORG

3" B x 1" R x 15" STK

FIGURE IT OUT

3"B x 1"R x 15" STK 1000 1000 PSI PSI Nitrogen NitrogenPre-Charge Pre-Charge

New Problem FC-1 FC-1

Changing Cylinder Size Causes A Drifting Problem

FC-2 FC-2

By Robert Sheaf, CFPAI/AJPP, CFPE, CFPS, CFPECS, CFPMT, CFPMIP, CFPMMH, CFPMIH, CFPMM, CFC Industrial Training Sol. 1A Sol. 1A

Sol. Sol. 1B 1B

at 2150PSI PSI SetSet at 2150

0-3000 PSI 0-3000 PSI

A CUSTOMER OF ours bought a machine that had a damaged cylinder that needed to be replaced. The rod was bent, and they ordered a replacement cylinder with a larger diameter rod thinking it would eliminate the original problem. The machine was put into production and worked well with one exception. Each time they stopped the cycle for more than 15 seconds, the cylinder started to drift out causing a potential safety problem. The cylinder supplier shipped them a replacement cylinder, Any idea what but the problem persisted. The circuit was confirmed to could be causing be correct and matched the machine hydraulic set-up. the problem?

Visit www.fluidpowerjournal.com to view previous problems.

Set at

Set at 2000 PSI 2000 PSI

olution to the Previous Problem: Large Punch Press Cylinder Stutters On Downward Extension

The stutter problem with the 600-ton cylinder on extension was caused by loss of pilot pressure needed to keep the pilot-operated directional valve shifted. The ram would fall fast enough to almost “run-a-way from the pump” supply flow. The spool would unshift allowing pressure to build up, then the spool would fully shift starting the spool cycle to repeat. They added a counterbalance valve on the rod side with an external pilot and 4:1 pilot ratio and it solved the stutter problem. They also changed the directional valve spool to a blocked “P” and “B” with “A” port connected to the tank to hold the ram in the up position when stopped.

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JANUARY 2019

P RO F E S S I O N A L D E V E LO P M E N T

7 Habits

to Take Your Workplace Culture to New Heights By Elizabeth McCormick

“Winning is a habit. Unfortunately, so is losing.” – Vince Lombardi

YOUR BELIEFS DICTATE your behavior and your behaviors create habits that determine your destination. You’re either going towards greatness or obscurity; there is no neutrality to your momentum. So where are your habits taking you? Leading your organization towards a specific destination or goal is like being a pilot of a passenger airplane – wherever you go, your company goes. There isn’t an auto-pilot setting for you if you expect to take your team to greater heights. If you find yourself and your organization stuck, or you’re ready to rev up your engine to soar higher, it may be time to engage your discipline and do the difficult things that other leaders may not do. Here are seven habits that can help you take your organizational culture to new heights:

1. HOPEFUL EXPECTATIONS Whatever you look for is exactly what you will find. If you expect to find problems, you will. If you expect your team to discover creative solutions, exceed their potential, come together as a team and support you, your vision, and your company goals – they will. A positive mindset is the first habit you need to cultivate and grow a winning mindset. Without it, you will fail to see what’s possible. 10

JANUARY 2019

Action Plan: When faced with a new idea, prospect, or proposal (especially in a meeting with your team), always communicate the positives first. Encourage and engage your team members to participate in developing new ideas. Cultivate innovation by asking them to spell out the pros and cons of their ideas. Then, when they’re ready, empower them to run with it. 2. ELIMINATE MULTITASKING Just because you’re busy, doesn’t mean you are productive. When too much emphasis is put on multitasking, it could lead to miscommunication, mistakes, frustration, and unmet goals. It’s not about how much you can multitask, it’s about knowing which task can multiply your results. Action Plan: Remove all distractions, then decide which task needs your attention and work on it until it’s done. This works for meetings too. Put your devices away and give your full attention to your team. Before you know it, they will follow your lead. 3. INTENTIONAL KINDNESS Many people have experienced random acts of kindness, but it’s time to be more intentional in showing kindness to yourself and your team members. Become more aware of how you can encourage others, add value, meet the needs you see, and extend grace whenever needed. As you do, you’ll begin to see that spread throughout your organization and beyond.

Action Plan: Set up a charity of the month. Assign a 12-person committee with each member taking ownership of one month. Some ideas include collecting winter coats and canned food, walking as a team in a fun run or 5K fundraiser, hosting a blood drive, adopting a highway, or spending a day with Habitat for Humanity. Encourage involvement by participating full out. 4. GEAR DOWN In today’s world, it’s tough to find time to think, yet that’s one of the more critical elements of success. Studies show that intentional down-time improves productivity, energy, and results. Don’t fall for that top-speed mentality or you’ll eventually run out of fuel. Schedule some time to gear down. Action Plan: Prioritize some non-negotiable time on your calendar just for you. Create a distraction-free space where you can clear your mind and unplug from everything. Start with just 10 minutes if that’s all you have, but just start. You’ll be amazed at the clarity and productivity you’ll experience as a result. 5. HIDDEN OPPORTUNITIES Being proactive is one of the hidden opportunities that leaders often miss. Instead of waiting to see what the day holds and reacting to that email, phone call, or situation, a more strategic approach is to determine responses before calamity strikes. Action Plan: Along with your yearly planning meetings to fine-tune the company’s vision and goals, be strategic about anticipating potential problems. Have an “Anticipation Meeting” with the goal of creating contingency plans and ask each department to develop a “what if” list, WWW.FLUIDPOWERJOURNAL.COM • WWW.IFPS.ORG

along with solutions. This type of strategy allows you and your team to be more creative in your problem-solving abilities while in a calmer state than an emergency allows. 6. TALK IT OUT Make it a habit to communicate openly with your team and allow them the opportunity to take part in the conversation. When communication is lost, your teamwork and productivity will suffer right along with your company’s goals. Action Plan: No one likes to be kept in the dark. Be clear in meetings about expectations, goals, and their command structure. You can also set a time where everyone knows your door is open to talk for topics that need to be dealt with one-on-one.

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7. SHARE THE LOAD Establish a habit of sharing the load. Delegating important tasks is another way you can honor and empower your team to take on new responsibilities that help to sharpen and show off their strengths. Action Plan: Encourage a company culture where employees at all levels have the chance to share their ideas, talk about what they do, and possibly mentor new up-and-comers in your organization. When leaders at all levels take ownership of the company vision and goals, there’s no limit to what you and your organization can do. When you choose winning habits by believing in the potential of your team, looking for the best in others, extending kindness, and creating space for them to give back, share ideas, and lead, you provide the jet fuel to ignite their creativity as you empower them to discover new levels of success. Don’t be satisfied with the status quo – make winning a habit so you and your team can soar to new heights. 

Elizabeth McCormick is a Keynote Speaker specializing in leadership, sales and safety presentations. She was recently named #4 on the list of “Leadership Experts to Follow Online.” A former U.S. Army Black Hawk pilot, and author of The P.I.L.O.T. Method:The 5 Elemental Truths to Leading Yourself in Life!, McCormick teaches instantly applicable strategies to boost your employees’ confidence in their own leadership abilities. For more information, please visit: www.yourinspirationalspeaker.com.

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* Dependable MAIN’S — 57 years ofADVANTAGES hydraulic experience * Informed — MAIN’s engineers on theexperience DEPENDABLE - 60 yearsare of active hydraulic SAE, NFPA, and ISO tech committees INFORMED - Main’s engineers are active on the SAE, NFPA, * Quick — Thousand of Styles Types STOCKED and ISO techand committees QUICK Thousands of Styles and Types STOCKED Request MAIN's catalog A US Manufacturer

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manufacturing products, inc

www.MAINmfg.com/fpj Grand Blanc, MI 48439 A U.S. PH: 800-521-7918 800.521.7918 info@MAINmfg.comMANUFACTURER info@MAINmfg.com www.MAINmfg.com/fpj Grand Blanc, MI 48439 CIRCLE 187

Air Compressors

Clean Dry Air Improves Performance... Clean, Dry Compressed Air Starts with The Extractor/Dryer® Manufactured by LA-MAn Corporation • Point of Use Compressed Air Filter to Improve and Extend Equipment Life • Removes Moisture and Contaminates to a 5-Micron Rating: Lower Micron Ratings are Available • Models with Flow Ranges of 15 SCFM to 500 SCFM Rated Up To 250psi are Standard • Differential Pressure Gauge Built in • Mounting Hardware Included for Easy Installation • Weep Drain is Standard; Float Drain or Electronic Drain Valves Optional

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WWW.IFPS.ORG • WWW.FLUIDPOWERJOURNAL.COM

JANUARY 2019

SPECIAL AD SECTION

COMPONENT SHOWCASE WHEN YOU NEED CYLINDERS, AIGNEP USA IS YOUR SOURCE. We offer NFPA and ISO Cylinders. Our NFPA Aluminum cylinders are ideally suited for a wide variety of industries and applications. They are strong, light weight, affordable and are dimensionally interchangeable with other NFPA cylinders. Additional stroke lengths, steel, stainless steel, non-rotating and dual rod options are available. Aignep USA manufactures a comprehensive range of NFPA and ISO cylinder styles in our state of the art manufacturing facility just outside of Nashville, TN, covering a wide variety of bores, strokes, materials and mounting accessories. We stock standard stroke cylinders in-house and ship within 24 hours, as well as produce non-standard units in a matter of days, not weeks. Call today to get a quote and enjoy same day shipping! Don’t forget to also check out our fantastic line of fittings and accessories designed to make connections easy with the SWIFTFIT Universal Thread. 7121 Loblolly Pine Blvd Fairview TN 37062 USA 615.771.6650 www.aignepusa.com

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CARDANIC RING AND TRUNNION MOUNTS EHM Cardanic Ring and Trunnion mounts eliminate leaking rod seals. They fit all types of trunnion mounted hydraulic/pneumatic cylinders and solve misalignment issues that cause rod seal damage and bearing wear. These heavy-duty cylinder mounting accessories are made from high strength steel and aluminum for many applications. We use rugged composite bearings constructed of synthetic Polyester resins with PTFE reinforcing fibers that do not require lubrication. This durable, self-lubricating material performs exceptionally well in wet, corrosive, and dusty environments. Our unique cardanic ring mounting arrangement quickly solves cylinder alignment and rod buckling issues. Your cylinder is free to move in six different planes. Using trunnion mounted cylinders with cardanic ring mounts instead of cylinders with clevis at both ends, can save you big money. Many customers have seen cost savings from eliminated stop tubes and increased force capability without rod buckling. Custom sizes and materials can be designed to fit your application, just give us a call 954-981-0023. • • • • •

JANUARY 2019

Minimize side load stress and rod bearing wear Heavy duty design Easy to install Non-lube composite bearings Full load capability CIRCLE 205

2501 John P. Lyons Lane Pembroke Park, FL 33009 954.981.0023 info@ehmcompany.com www.ehmcompany.com

WWW.FLUIDPOWERJOURNAL.COM • WWW.IFPS.ORG

SPECIAL AD SECTION

COMPONENT SHOWCASE AGI COMPONENTS – ENGINEERED TO ENDURE, SINCE 1983 American Grippers Inc. designs components while regarding the 4 basics: innovation, pricing, quality and delivery. They boast most products being ‘on the shelf’ while having the industry’s fastest turn-around time for specials. AGI’s industry leading ‘O’-Ring-Installing unit can be tooled to accommodate all types of rings/seals. Opening stroke of spreading jaws is adjustable. End of stroke sensing available for both spreading and ejector jaws. Jaws are t-slot bearing supported to prevent jaw breakage and offer superior load bearing performance. Both spreading and ejector jaws have independent pistons to provide exact timing of O-Ring placement. Compact design. True parallel jaw motion for easy tooling. American Grippers Inc. 171 Spring Hill Road • Trumbull, CT 06611 203.459.8345 • info@agi-automation.com www.agi-automation.com

AGI components are still made in the USA. Compatible with automotive, medical, and packaging applications, as well as conformance to clean room, food industry and environmentally challenging apps.

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FOR AMERICAN QUALITY, THERE IS ONLY ONE CHOICE… YOUR CYLINDER SOURCE®. Working in 265,000 square feet Yates produces the full spectrum from massive steel mill operations to precision tolerance machine tooling. Yates’ standard and custom designed hydraulic and pneumatic cylinders have powered some of the world’s most prominent manufacturing processes. Yates has firmly set its reputation as the most comprehensive manufacturing and repair facilities in the industry as well as striking the perfect balance between big business manufacturing capabilities and small business service values. Yates is keeping the American industry moving, one cylinder at a time.

Yates Cylinders, Inc. 586.778.7680 • sales@yatesind.com Yates Cylinders Alabama 256.351.8081 • decatur@yatesind.com Yates Cylinders Georgia 678.355.2240 • salesga@yatesind.com CIRCLE 206

WWW.IFPS.ORG • WWW.FLUIDPOWERJOURNAL.COM

JANUARY 2019

A COST-EFFECTIVE ALTERNATIVE:

Adjustable End Position Stops

Multiple-Position Pneumatic Linear

SLIDES

Guided/Supported Saddle

By Carey Webster, Engineered Solutions Manager, CFPPS, PHD, Inc.

neumatic linear slides are used in a wide range of applications throughout many industries. Guided and supported linear motion is the foundation for many of these applications. Over the years, the requirement for flexibility and more productive devices has led to the need for multiple-position linear slides, but providing multiple positions with a pneumatic linear slide can be a tricky proposition. There have been numerous products introduced using pneumatic servo technology with some success. The compressibility of air, potential contamination issues, and high cost have limited the success of these pneumatic servo systems. Another more popular alternative is to use electrically driven linear slides using a belt or ball screw drive and servo or stepper motors.

JANUARY 2019

Shock Absorbers Built into the Saddle

Adjustable Retractable Pneumatic Stops

This technology has been widely adopted, but comes with a higher initial investment than a pneumatic linear slide. One cost-effective alternative is a pneumatic linear slide using adjustable built-in pneumatic stops to achieve very accurate multiple positions. The idea of incorporating built-in adjustable stops on a pneumatic linear slide does not fit every application, but is effective where 3 to 5 adjustable positions are needed. The example presented in this article is a saddle or carriage-type pneumatic slide using a built-in rodless cylinder as the drive mechanism. The

load-carrying carriage is supported and guided by a built-in precision rail bearing assembly. The adjustable stops attach to the slide and are locked in place via hardware that engage tee slots in the body of the linear slide. The stops are retractable and are pneumatically extended to stop the saddle whenever the position is required in the application. Retraction of the pneumatic stop allows the linear slide to move to the next required position. Multiple stops can be installed on the saddle slide depending on the number of positions required. Built-in hydraulic shock absorbers in the saddle are used

WWW.FLUIDPOWERJOURNAL.COM â&#x20AC;˘ WWW.IFPS.ORG

to help decelerate the saddle at each mid-stop. Adjustable end position blocks can be used to shorten the overall stroke if required. Consideration must be taken for load and velocity used with this type of linear slide. It is advisable to review all application information provided by the manufacturer of any pneumatic linear slide. The attitude (horizontal or vertical) of the slide is an important factor of the application. When linear slides are used in a vertical attitude, the effect of gravity on the load must be considered. Many manufacturers have sizing software available to confirm that the linear slide will perform in each specific application. One advantage of this type of multiple-position pneumatic linear slide is the positional accuracy provided. Because this uses a positive pneumatically powered mechanical stop, the accuracy and repeatability is much better than that of a slide using pneumatic servo technology. Typically, the repeatability is 0.0016-inch of the original position. Switches can be used to provide an input signal to various types of programmable controllers or logic systems to indicate the linear slide is in each position. These can be propriety switches designed to fit into the linear slide body or commercially available proximity switches.

Valving is an important consideration when applying a multi-position linear slide. This type of unit not only requires a directional control valve for the linear slide, but also requires a directional control valve for each intermediate stop. The type of valve used and the manner in which each valve is plumbed is critical to the function of the linear slide. The multi-position linear slide needs to be controlled by center pressurized (pressure center) or equivalent-type valves. Failure to maintain pressure on both ports of the linear slide when releasing the stopped saddle assembly can cause it to rapidly accelerate upon release of the pneumatic stop. This rapid acceleration can cause physical injury to personnel and/or damage to equipment.

Most linear slides use back-pressure on the exhaust side of the slide piston to regulate saddle speed. Presence of adequate back-pressure is critical when the saddle, stopped by the pneumatic stop actuator, is released. If air opposite of the pressurized side of the slide piston is exhausted to ambient pressure before the saddle is released, the saddle

can rapidly accelerate to high velocity before enough back-pressure can build to regulate saddle speed. See pneumatic circuit diagrams in Figures 1A and 1B for the best method of plumbing a multi-position linear slide. The concept of using a pneumatic linear slide with pneumatic stop actuators provides a simple alternative to electrically driven slides or pneumatic servo slides. The use of hydraulic shock absorbers in the saddle provides deceleration capabilities at each position. The greatest limitation is the practical number of positions. This concept works extremely well, but there is the ‘law of diminishing returns’ as a user adds more and more mid-positions. The application makes sense with 3 to 5 total positions. More positions may be added depending on the total travel of the linear slide. The designer must consider the additional complexity regarding the number of directional control valves required and the costs associated with those valves and plumbing for each position. A pneumatic multi-position linear slide using pneumatic stops is a great solution and provides the designer with cost-effective alternatives to traditional types of linear slides. 

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9S SERIES INVESTMENT CAST SWIVELS The “9S” Series swivels represent one of the most complete range of sizes and configurations available to the industry. This series has been redesigned to incorporate a one piece barrel arrangement thus eliminating the need for braze joints. These swivels are pressure balanced with operating pressures up to 5,000 psi. All configurations are designed with a 4:1 Safety Factor and include RoHS compliant zinc plating. P.O. Box 6479, Fort Worth, TX 76115 V. 817/923-1965 www.hydraulicsinc.com CIRCLE 189

WWW.IFPS.ORG • WWW.FLUIDPOWERJOURNAL.COM

NOW AVAILABLE! MB-6 MONOBLOCK 32GPM

YOULI-AMERICA Corpus Christi, TX • 888-330-8041 www.youli-america.com • service@youli-america.com CIRCLE 190

JANUARY 2019

I F P S U P D AT E

Fluid Power Hall of Fame Nominations Are Being Accepted »

for the Inaugural Class of 2019

THE SUCCESS OF the fluid power industry, both in hydraulics and in pneumatics, is not in its hardware, pumps, valves, cylinders, and hoses, but rather the success is through the efforts of our dedicated individuals: innovators, researchers, application engineers, educators, as well as sales and service personnel. These people are the reasons that our industry continues to thrive. A special award has been established to acknowledge those individuals who have dedicated their careers, and have made significant contributions to fluid power technolTo nominate someone ogy. The International Fluid Power Society, 2019 (other than yourself,) visit Hall of Fame host, is accepting nominations for ifps.org/hall-of-fame the 2019 Inaugural Class of the Fluid Power Hall of Fame. Nominees and award recipients will be announced on June 19, 2019 – Fluid Power Professionals’ Day. Any person can nominate an individual, living or deceased, who demonstrated excellence within their 25+ year fluid power career. Nominations accepted January 1 – April 15, 2019. ELIGIBILITY FOR THE AWARD • Verifiable 25 cumulative years in the fluid power industry. • Those nominated will be asked to complete a 13 question application. SELECTION OF AWARD RECIPIENTS •A panel of judges will review and select the 2019 Inaugural Class of the Fluid Power Hall of Fame.

GENERAL PURPOSE & SPECIALTY

SOLENOID VALVES FOR DEMANDING APPLICATIONS: FLUID POWER

CHEMICAL

RAIL

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REFRIGERATION

AUTOMOTIVE

FOOD/BEVERAGE

MEDICAL

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1.866.FLANGES / FAX: 513.527.4449 / SALES@ANCHORFLUIDPOWER.COM / WWW.ANCHORFLUIDPOWER.COM CIRCLE 191

JANUARY 2019

WWW.FLUIDPOWERJOURNAL.COM • WWW.IFPS.ORG

I F P S U P D AT E

New IFPS Website Launched! www.ifps.org

THE NEWLY REDESIGNED IFPS website has been launched! It’s mobile, it’s friendly, and it’s intuitive! Check it out at www.ifps.org.

Feel free to call 856-424-8998 or e-mail askus@ifps.org if you have any questions.

WHAT’S NEW BESIDES OUR LOOK? • It’s mobile friendly! • Your Account portal will hold all your certification and membership information, orders, test history, and more all in one place. •A seamless check-out process. Certification Pathway color-coded dia • The gram will show the certifications you hold and what certifications you need to achieve Master designations. more PDF applications! All membership, • No certification test, and recertification applications are now online and intuitive. • In January, the IFPS will be adding a new member benefits program.

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» www.weh.us

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Anzeige_ADT_US_7.625x4.875_Systems Integrator Directory_FINAL.indd 1 WWW.IFPS.ORG • WWW.FLUIDPOWERJOURNAL.COM

12.01.2016 07:04:01 JANUARY 2019

I F P S U P D AT E

JOIN US ON March 11-14, 2019, as the IFPS holds its 2019 Spring Meeting at The Embassy Suites, Savannah, Georgia. This is a great way to network with professionals in the industry. Optional activities are planned throughout the week, in addition to committee and board meetings. A technical workshop and job performance test will be held on Monday, March 11, 2019. Participation in this workshop contributes towards recertification and Accredited Instructor reaccreditation requirements. HOTEL RESERVATIONS can be made online at www.ifps.org or by calling The Embassy Suites at 912-721-6900 (be sure to mention group name International Register by visiting Fluid Power Society www.ifps.org or by to secure the group calling the IFPS at discount.)

856-424-8998.

TECHNICAL WORKSHOP “To Cv or Not to Cv” Monday, March 11, 2019 • 8:00 am - 4:00 pm Co-presented by Thomas Blansett, CFPAI, IFPS Technical Director, and Jon Jensen, CFPAI, SMC Corporation of America Registration: $150.00 (lunch included) The focus of this workshop will be sizing pneumatic valves using ISO 6538:1989 - rating valve performance. Exploration of sizing with ANSI standards using Cv versus sizing using sonic conductance and b-values following ISO standards (widely adopted throughout the world, except the US,) since it is a more accurate predictor of valve performance, and looking at high-speed operations and the effects of moisture in the lines. Risk management for high-speed pneumatic systems along with ISO 6538:1989 Machinery Safety, with discussion of the Machinery Directive as per ISO-12100, and Safety Related Parts of Control Systems as per ISO-13849 will be addressed.

JOB PERFORMANCE TEST

Monday, March 11, 2019 • 9:00 am - 12:00 pm IFPS will conduct Job Performance Tests for IFPS Mechanics, Technicians, and Connector and Conductor Certifications. Separate registration is required and must be submitted at least 30 days in advance.

MEETING SCHEDULE OF EVENTS (subject to change)

Inserta

IBFP Flange Ported BALL VALVES

Electroless Nickel Plating Available

JANUARY 2019

Monday, March 11, 2019 9:00 am-12:00 pm JP Testing 8:00 am-4:00 pm Technical Workshop Tuesday, March 12, 2019 8:00 am-9:00 am Strategic Planning Committee 9:00 am-11:00 am Education Committee Meeting 11:00 am-12:00 pm Membership Committee Meeting 12:00 pm-12:30 pm Hosted Lunch 12:30 pm-1:30 pm Membership Committee Meeting (cont) 2:00 pm-3:30 pm Trolley Tour - optional 6:00 pm-7:30 pm Welcome Reception 7:30 pm-10:00 pm Group Evening Out - optional Wednesday, March 13, 2019 8:00 am-12:00 pm Certification Committee Meeting 12:00 pm-12:45 pm Hosted Lunch 1:00 pm-4:00 pm GulfStream Tour - optional 6:00 pm-9:00 pm Dinner - Cruise Thursday, March 14, 2019 8:00 am-10:30 am Marketing Committee Meeting 10:30 am-12:00 pm Finance Committee Meeting 12:00 pm-12:45 pm Hosted Lunch 12:45 pm-2:30 pm Board of Directors Meeting 2:30 pm-3:30 pm Strategic Planning Committee Follow-up WWW.FLUIDPOWERJOURNAL.COM • WWW.IFPS.ORG

I F P S U P D AT E

Coming January 15, 2019

IFPS to Roll Out a New Associate Perks Program Membership Perks Program Log in at prks.co/Friends

Registration Code: LifeHasPerks

Enjoy member-only discounts and corporate rates on everything from pizza

ENJOY MEMBER-ONLY DISCOUNTS and corporate rates on everything from pizza andthe the zoo, movie tickets, car rentals, and hotels. With302,000 over 302,000 and zoo, to to movie tickets, car rentals, and hotels. With over offers across offers across 10,000 cities and easy mobile access, you’ll always havesavings! a 10,000 cities and easy mobile access, you’ll always have a reason to celebrate your reason to Celebrate Your Savings!

Wellness

NEARBY Nearby OFFERS Offers

MONTHLY Mobile

WELLNESS

Movie MOVIE Showtimes

SHOWTIMES

MOBILE Monthly

GIVEAWAYS Apps

Insurance INSURANCE Benefits BENEFITS

APPS Giveaways

Vacation

VACATION Planner PLANNER

Associate Perks Program Log in at prks.co/Friends

Registration Code: LifeHasPerks

All discount offers are subject to change at any time without notice. Log in regularly to view the latest discounts available. Inc. to Copyright 2018. All discount offersAbenity, are subject change at any time without notice. Log in regularly to view the latest discounts available. Abenity, Inc. Copyright 2018.

Upcoming Workshops

ACCREDITED INSTRUCTOR (AI) and Authorized Job Performance Proctor (AJPP) Workshops — March 18-20, 2019, in Detroit, MI. The AI workshop is a one or two-day workshop to acquaint you with the IFPS certification program and to assess your instructional abilities. It is not a program to teach instructor skills, but rather, to measure your instructor skills. IFPS AIs have extensive backgrounds and instructional expe- Enjoy member-only discounts and corporate rates on everything from pizza the zoo, to movie tickets, car rentals, and hotels. With over 302,000 rience in the fluid power industry. In addition to their instructor Toand register for the offers across 10,000 cities and easy mobile access, you’ll always have a upcoming AI Training accreditation, they are committed IFPS members and hold various reason to Celebrate Your Savings! Workshop or Job levels of IFPS certifications. Performance Proctor IFPS AJPPs are certified to proctor all Mechanic, Technician, and Workshop, visit Connector and Conductor job performance (hands-on section) NEARBY MONTHLY MOBILE WELLNESS OFFERS GIVEAWAYS APPS www.ifps.org or call tests, an individual must hold the certification they plan to proctor 856-424-8998. and must be an IFPS Member. WWW.IFPS.ORG • WWW.FLUIDPOWERJOURNAL.COM

MOVIE

INSURANCE

VACATION

SHOWTIMES

BENEFITS

PLANNER

CIRCLE 194

JANUARY 2019

I F P S U P D AT E

Certification Testing Locations ndividuals wishing to take any IFPS written certification tests can select from convenient locations across the United States and Canada. The IFPS is able to offer these locations through its affiliation with The Consortium of College Testing Centers (CCTC) provided by National College Testing Association (NCTA).

To register for a written certification test: 1. Fill out an IFPS certification test application including your desired location by visiting www.ifps.org. 2. Submit your application with payment to IFPS headquarters. 3. Upon receipt of your application, you will be e-mailed instructions.

TESTING DATES FOR ALL LOCATIONS: February 2019 Tuesday 2/5 • Thursday 2/21 March 2019 Tuesday 3/5 • Thursday 3/21 April 2019 Tuesday 4/2 • Thursday 4/25 May 2019 Tuesday 5/7 • Thursday 5/23 June 2019 Tuesday 6/4 • Thursday 6/20

JANUARY 2019

ALASKA Anchorage, AK Fairbanks, AK ALABAMA Auburn, AL Birmingham, AL Huntsville, AL Jacksonville, AL Mobile, AL Montgomery, AL Normal, AL Tuscaloosa, AL ARIZONA Flagstaff, AZ Glendale, AZ Mesa, AZ Phoenix, AZ Prescott, AZ Safford, AZ Scottsdale, AZ Sierra Vista, AZ Tempe, AZ Thatcher, AZ Tucson, AZ Yuma, AZ ARKANSAS Bentonville, AR Hot Springs, AR Little Rock, AR CALIFORNIA Aptos, CA Arcata, CA Bakersfield, CA Encinitas, CA Fresno, CA Irvine, CA Marysville, CA Riverside, CA Salinas, CA San Diego, CA San Jose, CA San Luis Obispo, CA Santa Ana, CA Santa Maria, CA Santa Rosa, CA Yucaipa, CA COLORAD0 Aurora, CO Boulder, CO Colorado Springs, CO Denver, CO Durango, CO Ft. Collins, CO Greeley, CO Lakewood, CO Littleton, CO Pueblo, CO DELAWARE Dover, DE Georgetown, DE FLORIDA Avon Park, FL Boca Raton, FL Cocoa, FL Davie, FL Daytona Beach, FL Fort Pierce, FL Ft. Myers, FL Gainesville, FL Miami Gardens, FL

New Port Richey, FL Orlando, FL Panama City, FL Pembroke Pines, FL Pensacola, FL Plant City, FL Sanford, FL Tampa, FL Winter Haven, FL GEORGIA Albany, GA Athens, GA Atlanta, GA Carrollton, GA Dahlonega, GA Dublin, GA Dunwoody, GA Lawrenceville, GA Morrow, GA Oakwood, GA Statesboro, GA Tifton, GA Valdosta, GA HAWAII Laie, HI IDAHO Boise, ID Coeur d ‘Alene, ID Idaho Falls, ID Lewiston, ID Moscow, ID Nampa, ID Rexburg, ID Twin Falls, ID ILLINOIS Carbondale, IL Carterville, IL Champaign, IL Decatur, IL DeKalb, IL Edwardsville, IL Elk Grove, IL Glen Ellyn, IL Joliet, IL Malta, IL Peoria, IL Springfield, IL INDIANA Bloomington, IN Evansville, IN Fort Wayne, IN Gary, IN Indianapolis, IN Kokomo, IN Lafayette, IN Lawrenceburg, IN Madison, IN Muncie, IN New Albany, IN Sellersburg, IN South Bend, IN Terre Haute, IN IOWA Ames, IA Cedar Rapids, IA Iowa City, IA Ottumwa, IA Sioux City, IA Waterloo, IA

KANSAS Lawrence, KS Manhattan, KS Wichita, KS KENTUCKY Bowling Green, KY Covington, KY Highland Heights, KY Louisville, KY Morehead, KY LOUISIANA Bossier City, LA Monroe, LA Natchitoches, LA New Orleans, LA Thibodaux, LA MARYLAND Arnold, MD Bel Air, MD Frederick, MD Hagerstown, MD La Plata, MD Westminster, MD Wye Mills, MD MASSACHUSETTS Boston, MA Bridgewater, MA Danvers, MA Haverhill, MA Holyoke, MA MICHIGAN Ann Arbor, MI Big Rapids, MI Dearborn, MI Dowagiac, MI East Lansing, MI Flint, MI Grand Rapids, MI Kalamazoo, MI Lansing, MI Livonia, MI Mount Pleasant, MI Sault Ste. Marie, MI Troy, MI University Center, MI Warren, MI MINNESOTA Brooklyn Park, MN Eden Prairie, MN Granite Falls, MN Mankato, MN Morris, MN MISSISSIPPI Goodman, MS Mississippi State, MS Raymond, MS University, MS MISSOURI Cape Girardeau, MO Cottleville, MO Joplin, MO Kirksville, MO Park Hills, MO Poplar Bluff, MO Rolla, MO Sedalia, MO St. Joseph, MO St. Louis, MO Warrensburg, MO

MONTANA Bozeman, MT Missoula, MT NEBRASKA Bellevue, NE Lincoln, NE North Platte, NE Omaha, NE NEVADA Henderson, NV North Las Vegas, NV Winnemucca, NV NEW JERSEY Branchburg, NJ Lincroft, NJ Sewell, NJ Toms River, NJ West Windsor, NJ NEW MEXICO Albuquerque, NM Clovis, NM Farmington, NM Portales, NM Santa Fe, NM NEW YORK Brooklyn, NY Buffalo, NY Garden City, NY Middletown, NY New York, NY Syracuse, NY NORTH CAROLINA Apex, NC Asheville, NC Boone, NC Charlotte, NC Durham, NC Fayetteville, NC Greenville, NC Jamestown, NC Misenheimer, NC Pembroke, NC Raleigh, NC Wilmington, NC NORTH DAKOTA Bismarck, ND Fargo, ND OHIO Akron, OH Cincinnati, OH Columbus, OH Fairfield, OH Findlay, OH Kirtland, OH Lima, OH Maumee, OH Newark, OH Rio Grande, OH Toledo, OH Youngstown, OH OKLAHOMA Altus, OK Bethany, OK Edmond, OK Norman, OK Oklahoma City, OK Stillwater, OK Tonkawa, OK Tulsa, OK

OREGON Bend, OR Coos Bay, OR Eugene, OR Gresham, OR Medford, OR Oregon City, OR Portland, OR White City, OR PENNSYLVANIA Bethlehem, PA Bloomsburg, PA Blue Bell, PA Gettysburg, PA Harrisburg, PA Lancaster, PA Newtown, PA Philadelphia, PA Pittsburgh, PA York, PA SOUTH CAROLINA Beaufort, SC Charleston, SC Columbia, SC Conway, SC Greenwood, SC Orangeburg, SC Rock Hill, SC Spartanburg, SC TENNESSE Blountville, TN Clarksville, TN Collegedale, TN Gallatin, TN Johnson City, TN Memphis, TN Morristown, TN Murfreesboro, TN Nashville, TN TEXAS Abilene, TX Arlington, TX Austin, TX Beaumont, TX Brownsville, TX Commerce, TX Corpus Christi, TX Dallas, TX Denison, TX El Paso, TX Houston, TX Laredo, TX Lubbock, TX Lufkin, TX Mesquite, TX Weatherford, TX Wichita Falls, TX UTAH Cedar City, UT Kaysville, UT Logan, UT Ogden, UT Orem, UT Salt Lake City, UT VIRGINIA Daleville, VA Lynchburg, VA Norfolk, VA Roanoke, VA Virginia Beach, VA

WASHINGTON Bellingham, WA Bremerton, WA Ellensburg, WA Olympia, WA Seattle, WA Shoreline, WA Spokane, WA WISCONSIN Fond du Lac, WI La Crosse, WI Milwaukee, WI WYOMING Casper, WY Laramie, WY Torrington, WY ASIA Kingdom of Bahrain AUSTRALIA Rockingham, WA CANADA Calgary, AB Edmonton, AB Fort McMurray, AB Lethbridge, AB Lloydminster, AB Olds, AB Red Deer, AB Abbotsford, BC Burnaby, BC Castlegar, BC Delta, BC Kamloops, BC Nanaimo, BC Prince George, BC Richmond, BC Surrey, BC Vancouver, BC Victoria, BC Brandon, MB Winnipeg, MB Bathurst, NB Moncton, NB St. John’s, NL Halifax, NS Brockville, ON Hamilton, ON Mississauga, ON Niagara-on-theLake, ON North Bay, ON North York, ON Ottawa, ON Toronto, ON Welland, ON Windsor, ON Côte Saint-Luc, QB Montrea, QB Montreal, QB Melfort, SK Moose Jaw, SK Nipawin, SK Prince Albert, SK Saskatoon, SK Whitehorse, YT ENGLAND London, ENG NEW ZEALAND Taradale, NZ UNITED KINGDOM Elgin, UK

WWW.FLUIDPOWERJOURNAL.COM • WWW.IFPS.ORG

I F P S U P D AT E

AVAILABLE IFPS CERTIFICATIONS CFPAI Certified Fluid Power Accredited Instructor CFPAJPP Certified Fluid Power Authorized Job Performance Proctor CFPAJPPCC Certified Fluid Power Authorized Job Performance Proctor Connector & Conductor CFPE Certified Fluid Power Engineer CFPS Certified Fluid Power Specialist (Must Obtain CFPHS, CFPPS) CFPHS Certified Fluid Power Hydraulic Specialist CFPPS Certified Fluid Power Pneumatic Specialist CFPECS Certified Fluid Power Electronic Controls Specialist CFPMT Certified Fluid Power Master Technician (Must Obtain CFPIHT, CFPMHT, & CFPPT) CFPIHT Certified Fluid Power Industrial Hydraulic Technician CFPMHT Certified Fluid Power Mobile Hydraulic Technician CFPPT Certified Fluid Power Pneumatic Technician CFPMM Certified Fluid Power Master Mechanic (Must Obtain CFPIHM, CFPMHM, & CFPPM) CFPIHM Certified Fluid Power Industrial Hydraulic Mechanic CFPMHM Certified Fluid Power Mobile Hydraulic Mechanic CFPPM Certified Fluid Power Pneumatic Mechanic CFPMIH Certified Fluid Power Master of Industrial Hydraulics (Must Obtain CFPIHM, CFPIHT, & CFPCC) CFPMMH Certified Fluid Power Master of Mobile Hydraulics (Must Obtain CFPMHM, CFPMHT, & CFPCC) CFPMIP Certified Fluid Power Master of Industrial Pneumatics (Must Obtain CFPPM, CFPPT, & CFPCC) CFPCC Certified Fluid Power Connector & Conductor CFPSD Fluid Power System Designer CFPMEC (In Development) Mobile Electronic Controls CFPIEC (In Development) Industrial Electronic Controls

WWW.IFPS.ORG • WWW.FLUIDPOWERJOURNAL.COM

October 2018

Newly Certified Professionals MASTER MECHANIC (MM) – holds IHM, MHM and PM certifications Larry Anger - Bonneville Power Administration PNEUMATIC SPECIALIST (PS) Bridget E. Doyle - Hyspeco HYDRAULIC SPECIALIST (HS) Mahir Mohamed Ali Sharif G. Behrooz - Altec Industries, Inc. Tracy A. Clark - The Hope Group Dave Hadfield - FloDraulic Controls Ltd. Michael J. Howard - Controlled Fluid Inc. Pat W. Johnston - Regional Hose & Hydraulics Jake Martens - Controlled Fluids Inc. CONNECTOR & CONDUCTOR (CC) Edgar P. Cereceres - Open Loop Energy, Inc. Brian McBride - Controlled Fluid Inc. MOBILE HYDRAULIC MECHANIC (MHM) Jose Alfaro - AEP James Ananias - Southern California Edison David Brightwell - Virginia Department of Transportation Paul Capuano - Mississippi Power Company Gordon Cawthon - Southern California Edison Paul Centofanti - Southern California Edison William A. Culbertson - Altec Industries, Inc. Jose Eluid De Leon - AEP Texas Gustavo Diaz - Southern California Edison Mark Dunlap - Altec Industries, Inc. James W. Eakins - Altec Industries, Inc. Joseph B. Edwards, Jr. - Georgia Power Jesiah Ehrhorn - Altec Industries, Inc. Lonnie R. Erp - Altec Industries, Inc. Joshua D. Filipovich - Altec Hiline

Joshua S. Foster - AEP Juan Carlos Gonzalez - Southern California Edison Brian D. Hektor - Altec Industries, Inc. Isaac Kidd - Altec Industries, Inc. Jason Krach - Southern California Edison Ryan Averett Linthicum - Virginia Department of Transportation Gregory Lord - Altec Industries, Inc. Timothy J. Mangold - Southern California Edison Evan Mathison - Altec Hiline Brandon A. Mendoza - Altec Industries, Inc. Jared A. Meyers - Altec Industries, Inc. Daniel R. Myers - Virginia Department of Transportation Nick H. Nieuwenhuis - Altec Industries, Inc. Tyson Parker - Altec Industries, Inc. Kyle B. Philleo - Altec Industries, Inc. Adam Pirard - Altec Industries, Inc. Brian Ruff - Altec Industries, Inc. Benjamin Salazar, Jr. - Altec Industries, Inc. Lynn R. Schack - Altec Industries, Inc. Patrick “Seth” Trainor - Altec Industries, Inc. T. Hunter Trivellin - Virginia Department of Transportation Derek Uzzle - Altec Industries, Inc. Marco A. Vasquez - AEP Texas Jake Warszynski - Altec Industries, Inc. Carlton O. Webb - Georgia Power Company Ben Wedel - Altec Industries, Inc. Jeffrey M. Wellborn - Virginia Department of Transportation MOBILE HYDRAULIC TECHNICIAN (MHT) Benny J. Batson - Empire District Electric Co. Matthew S. Hawkins - Altec Industries, Inc. JANUARY 2019

SPECIAL AD SECTION

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT Features and Specifications for D.O.T Fittings

Actuators, Cylinders, Motors & Rotary, and Slides

Now Offering General Purpose & Specialty Solenoid Valves Anchor Fluid Power has expanded our inline valve offering to include a full line of solenoid valves. Known for reliability with a wide range of media, solenoid valves are frequently used in process control applications for industries including fluid power, water treatment, food & beverage, medical, rail, automotive and car wash. In addition to our standard line of solenoid valves, we also offer custom solutions specific to your application.

Features • Simply push in tubing for quick connection no tools or loose parts to handle in tight places. • Brass construction. • Elbows and tees are forged brass. • D.O.T approved. • Pre-applied sealant on all male pipe threads. • Viton O-ring sealing in all of fittings. • D.O.T. FMVSS 571.106 SAE J1131 Uses Windows, door locks, mirrors, wipers, air-operated seats, operating gauges, air horns, heater controls, gear shifts, fifth wheels, air brake connections Specifications Temperature range: -30°F - 250°F (0°C - 60°C) Pressure range: 0 - 250 PSI Material: brass

http://catalog.anchorfluidpower.com/category/ solenoid-valves

polyconn.com 763.559.0388

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Flange Ported Ball Valves WEH® Quick Connectors WEH® quick connectors for testing of hydraulic & pneumatic components are used especially for the fluid technology. Industries which need to connect and disconnect frequently for vacuum, pressure, leak and function testing save time using these connectors. The quick connectors are placed directly onto the test piece and achieve pressure-tight connections in seconds.

JANUARY 2019

Inserta® Flange Ported Ball Valves may be installed in-line between two SAE J518 flanges. These valves are available in sizes of ½ to 2 inches with nominal and full flow porting, for maximum working pressures up to 6000 psi. Steel bodies and offset steel handles are standard. Electroless Nickel plating is available as an economical option to stainless steel. Additional Inserta® flanged components can be “sandwiched” between the ball valve and an SAE flange.

832.331.0021 sales@weh.us • www.weh.us

Inserta® Products Blue Bell, PA www.inserta.com

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SPECIAL AD SECTION

CTI-TW Thumbwheel

Filtration Solutions for Low-Flow Applications

The CTI-TW Hall Effect Thumbwheel utilizes sealed Non-contacting Hall effect sensors in a polyamide nylon housing. This small and ruggedized thumbwheel is ideally suited for tight clearances in compact control grips and panels. Resistant to vibration, shock, and extremes of temperatures typically found in mobile machine environments. The CTI-TW Hall Effect Thumbwheel offers maintenance-free, reliable long-term use. This thumbwheel is available in three mechanical configurations: Spring Return to Center, Spring Return to Side and Friction Hold. These configurations are available in three electrical output styles: 0.5 to 4.5Vdc, 1.0 to 5.0 Vdc and 0.0-5.0 Vdc signal outputs.

Anodized aluminum housings with all stainless steel filter elements for flow rates up to 15 gpm and 300 psi. Pipe sizes ranging from ¼” to 1” npt and SAE straight threads, too. You choose your level of filtration from 5 to 595 microns. Positive o-ring seal and cleanable elements. In stock. Flow Ezy Filters, Inc. Phone: 800.237.1165 • Fax: 800.252.1730 Email: flowezy@flowezyfilters.com Website: www.flowezyfilters.com

1.800.621.8754 www.cyber-tech.net CIRCLE 212

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Double Pumps “AA” Flange, 1DG Series “A” Flange, 2DG Series “B” Flange, 3DG Series

Protection for All Things Hydraulic, Pneumatic and Fluid Power MOCAP manufactures an extensive range of protective closures to guard pipes, hoses, and hydraulic fittings from dirt, moisture, and damage to help maintain equipment reliability. Included are a variety of sizes and styles of Threaded and Non-Threaded plastic Caps and Plugs for Metric, NPT, BSP, JIC and SAE Threaded Connections, Ports and Fittings. These are in addition to MOCAP’s already extensive lines of low-cost Caps, Plugs, Grips, Netting, Tubing and Tapes for general Product Protection, Finishing and Masking. All of our stocked items are ready for immediate shipment and available in Box, Mini-Pack and Micro-Pack quantities. Free Samples are always available for testing purposes. sales@mocap.com www.mocap.com CIRCLE 213

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New from Honor Gear Pumps. Now available from Corpus Christi inventory. "B" flange group 3, and "A" flange group 2, and "AA" flange group 1 double pumps are now available from the factory warehouse. Standard group 3 models come with 7/8-13 tooth spline shaft and are available from 52cc on the front pump down to as small as 5cc on the rear. Standard group 2 models come with either the 5/8-9 tooth spline or 5/8" keyed shaft, in displacements from 22cc on the front to 5cc on the rear. Standard group 1 models come with a 1/2" keyed shaft, in displacements from 9cc on the front to 1cc on the rear. Subject to center section displacements being 5cc, or 7cc, or 9cc, or 11cc, triple pumps are also available in the group 2 size pump frame. Aluminum bodies with cast iron covers are standard heavy duty construction for all Honor single and double gear pumps.

Contact us to showcase your products and services in the Product Spotlight. This special section is a high-profile area offering productspecific advertising. Visit fluidpowerjournal.com for more information or to view our media guide.

Honor Gear Pumps Corp. Proudly sold through distribution. Please call to be referred. 222 S. Navigation Blvd. • Corpus Christi, TX 78405 Toll free: 800.984.9727 • Local: 713.984.8144 Fax: 713.461.9631 Email: service@honorpumps.com Web: www.honorpumps.com CIRCLE 214

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SPECIAL AD SECTION

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT Actuators, Cylinders, Motors & Rotary, and Slides Veljan Vane Pumps and Flange Mounted Valves FluiDyne is your fast and reliable source for Veljan products. They stock T6/T7 single, double and triple vane pumps, and flange mounted valves that mount directly to pumps or manifolds. Including: Relief, Unloading and Sequence valves. FluiDyne also carries the M4 series vane motors in the C, D and E frame sizes with a wide range of torque sizes. Call, email, chat...we’re ready to help.

New—Flat Face Design "TVF" Series Quick Disconnect • Up to 6,000 PSI Operating Pressure— Coupled or Uncoupled • Full 4:1 Safety Factor • Superior Flow Characteristics—Minimal Pressure Drop • RoHS Compliant Plating • Multiple Port Options—Female NPTF, Female SAE O-Ring, Female BSPP, Code 61 & 62 Flange Port/Head

586.296.7200 • sales@fluidynefp.com www.fluidynefp.com

P.O. Box 6479 • Fort Worth, TX 76115 817.923.1965 • www.hydraulicsinc.com

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Festo’s EHPS Parallel Gripper

YOULI Hydraulic Directional Control Valves Direct Acting Electric Solenoids...now available: Youli directional control valves, rated to 4600psi, monoblock or sectional styles, are now available from stock in Corpus Christi, with electric direct acting solenoids on the MB-4 series, rated to 10GPM. Pneumatic operators are also available on all Youli valves, and also kept in stock. Youli quality is based on 25 years of industrial hydraulic valve manufacturing for the machine tool business in Taiwan. A quality product line with a major commitment to inventory in Corpus Christi, Texas, and offered at competitive prices is making our reputation grow.

Festo’s EHPS parallel gripper provides powerful, reliable gripping in applications involving small or delicate workpieces, such as electronics, small parts assembly, machine construction and more. Combining compact dimensions with a powerful DC motor, its jaws achieve maximum force in only 0.5 mm of stroke.

800.993.3786 customer.service.us@festo.com www.festo.com CIRCLE 218

Youli-America, a Division of RanFam, LLC Proudly sold through distribution. Please call to be referred. Contact the company at 1.888.330.8041 or email to service@youli-america.com View basic specifications at www.youli-america.com CIRCLE 217

JANUARY 2019

WWW.FLUIDPOWERJOURNAL.COM • WWW.IFPS.ORG

SPECIAL AD SECTION

Stops Leaking Hydraulic Lines Save Time • Save Money Save Labor • Save Oil • No tools required, one hand installation • No expensive hardware needed • No more rags stuffed into hoses • No more messy plastic caps • The ultimate contamination control tool • Eliminate hydraulic oil spills & clean up • Quick installation & ease of usage • Safe for personnel & environment • Industry acclaimed

Now Available! Full MTRs and Lot Traceability MAIN Manufacturing Products, Inc. now offers full MTRs and lot traceability on all common flanges. Carbon, stainless, and coppernickel alloy are available. If not part of our 7000+ in-stock products, MAIN can manufacture and ship quickly. 4-5 days is common from our US facility. MAIN Manufacturing Products, Inc. Phone: 800.521.7918 • E-mail: info@mainmfg.com

Contact Mike Pearl at 203.861.9400 or email sales@flangelock.com www.flangelock.com CIRCLE 220

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D03, D05, D07, D08, D10 Valves and Circuit Stack Modulars Power Valve U.S.A. represents, as factory warehouse and sales office, a Taiwan manufacturer of D03, D05, D07, D08, and D10 valves, and modular circuit stack valves. With inventory in the Corpus Christi warehouse, all products are competitively priced, and machine tool quality. In fact the parent company, Tai Huei Oil Industry Co., Ltd. has been selling valves for over 25 years to the machine tool industry in Taiwan. All standard AC and DC voltages are available, and all standard spool configurations are in stock. Special spools are available. Pressures to 5000psi and flows from 16GPM (D03) to 211GPM (D10) are standard. With inventory on the shelf and very competitive pricing, we invite your inquiry. Power Valve U.S.A. Proudly sold through distribution. Please call to be referred. 222 S. Navigation Blvd. • Corpus Christi, TX 78405 Contact the company at 713.869.1064 or e-mail to service@powervalveusa.com. View basic specifications at www.powervalveusa.com CIRCLE 221

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Contact us to showcase your products and services in the Product Spotlight. This special section is a high-profile area offering productspecific advertising.

Genuine Donaldson Internormen-Eaton Velcon-Parker

Visit fluidpowerjournal.com for more information or to view our media guide.

We're hydraulic filter experts. We've been doing it for over 30 years. We're very competitive and happy to serve your needs. If you need hydraulic filter application help, we know the right questions, and we can give you the right answers. J/T Hydraulics & Service Co. Inc. 1601 W. 25th Street • Houston, TX 77008 Local: 713.984.9727 • Toll Free: 800.591.8280 Fax: 713.861.2250 • www.jthydraulics.com CIRCLE 222

JANUARY 2019

COMPRESSED AIR SYSTEMS

Compressed Air Maintenance:

Stop, Look, and Listen By Ron Marshall

STOP. LOOK. LISTEN. These are important words of advice if you want to keep your compressed air system running in a trouble-free manner, and at the lowest possible cost. The key to a successfully running system is careful observation of various important parameters and conditions in the compressor room and in the facility. So often the attention paid to an air compressor or system is during a reaction to a problem, but the trouble-free operation of an air system requires proactive maintenance and constant repair.

This leak was found during a quiet down time while it was consuming 25% of the compressor capacity.

Let’s discuss these points: STOP – Shutting off your compressed air system during nights and weekends, or during non-productive periods saves energy. Turning off your air compressors allows a quiet time where you can observe some potential trouble for your compressor and your pocketbook. It is good to observe how fast the system pressure drops when the compressor is turned off. An immediate drop of 5 psi or more signals a high pressure drop in dryers, filters, and piping. You may need to do something to reduce compressor operating costs. A very slow pressure drop a few seconds after the compressor turns off shows your level of leaks and the relative size of your storage receivers. If your system pressure crashes more than 20 psi in a minute, with no production machines running, you may have high leakage or a lack of proper system storage. LOOK – This is a pretty tall order, but look in the compressor operating manual and find the maintenance requirements. Observe the compressor hour meters and see if you have been changing lubricant and filters in a timely manner. In air compressors, the lubricant receives harsh treatment, worse than typical machinery. Changing lubricant regularly is very important, or you risk future mechanical problems. Check all filter indicators and pressure gauges to ensure no high pressure differentials exist. Observe condensate drains—the drains in the compressor, receivers, air dryer, and filters. These need to be working to ensure high quality air enters the 26

JANUARY 2019

Ron Marshall is owner of Marshall Compressed Air Consulting, a company that specializes in compressed air efficiency assessments.Visit www.compressedairaudit.com Join the LinkedIn discussion group: Compressed Air Efficiency plant. Also, check the general compressor room area. Clean any high levels of debris that may restrict ventilation or get caught in compressor ventilation passages. Ensure primary filtration, if included in the room ventilation system, is clean and free of restrictions. LISTEN – A big driver of compressed air costs is system leakage. Starting in the compressor room, listen for leakage just after the compressor has been turned off. Are big leaks robbing you of your compressor capacity?

Then, with the compressor back on, walk through the plant during quiet times of non-production listening for leakage, making sure to note leakage points for later repair. Often 30% or more of compressed air costs will be caused by leakage. Best bet is to purchase an ultrasonic leak detector and use it regularly to keep your leakage levels under 10% of your compressor capacity or lower. Properly following this advice will help keep your compressed air system running in a reliable and cost effective manner.  WWW.FLUIDPOWERJOURNAL.COM • WWW.IFPS.ORG

N F PA U P D AT E

Meet a Fluid Power Scholarship Winner - Allison Potts

THE NFPA EDUCATION and Technology Foundation recently awarded $2,000 scholarships to students pursuing fluid power technology fields of study. Here’s one of the winners, Allison Potts. She is continuing her studies at the College of Central Florida, pursuing an A.S. degree in Advanced Manufacturing Specialization. We asked Allison about winning the scholarship. WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO LEARN ABOUT FLUID POWER? I was exposed to this field at an early age. Growing up, I had a vision of how things worked. I didn’t realize it until later I would be fascinated with fluid power. Watching the pressure gauge to give me an idea of how much power is being pushed through to make something move is amazing. The physics in this is mind-blowing.

WHAT ARE YOUR CAREER ASPIRATIONS? I want to be able to explore my knowledge by owning my own controls business. When my father retires, I plan to take over his business and continue working with controls. There are machines I will be working with that use fluid power and I look forward to it.

WHAT TYPE OF FLUID POWER JOB DO YOU HOPE TO GET AFTER YOU GRADUATE? I hope to work with machines that have fluid power in them. My goal is to help customers improve the quality of their machines for better production.

www.tribalbrass.com

Tribal’s #1 American-made Brass Fittings Supplier Compression for Radiant F1974 Fittings

KaeLeigh Grace Photography

WHAT DOES WINNING THIS FLUID POWER SCHOLARSHIP MEAN TO YOU? Winning the scholarship means I am doing something right with my future. I had no idea I would choose this career because I wanted to be a zoologist when I first graduated from high school. Now I know what kind of career I will be following. I enjoy working with a team of intelligent people, and I hope to expand our knowledge and use it to make a new invention of some kind.

The Foundation’s goal is to help individuals enrolled in high schools, technical colleges, and engineering schools pursue their interests in fluid power. For further information on the scholarships, contact Carrie Tatman Schwartz, Workforce Development Manager at ctschwartz@nfpa.com.

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For more information on opening order discounts, contact our sales team at: Call: +1 (269) 781-3901 | Email: info@tribalmfg.com CIRCLE 195

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HONOR PUMPS U.S.A. Corpus Christi, TX • 800-984-9727 www.honorpumps.com • service@honorpumps.com CIRCLE 196

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N F PA U P D AT E

Energy Efficient Fluid Power Discussed at Off-Road Vehicles Research Workshop By Eric Lanke, NFPA President/CEO

I RECENTLY ATTENDED a workshop at the Argonne National Laboratory to discuss strategies for increasing the energy efficiency of off-road vehicles. The workshop was hosted by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) as part of its new $10 million research funding program dedicated to the same cause. I was joined there by more than 80 representatives of fluid power components manufacturers, fluid suppliers, OEMs, research universities, and other national labs. It was an impressive gathering! The goals of the workshop were clearly laid out: • Identify the barriers to cost-effective, highefficiency off-road vehicles. pre-competitive research topics that • Identify could have the biggest impact in overcoming barriers. Identify metrics that should be applied to pro • gram progress and ambitious, but realistic goals.

Fortunately for university and industry research- • Change system architectures to reduce parasitic ers in the fluid power industry, increasing the and throttling losses. Those losses were seen as energy efficiency of fluid power systems was the biggest challenge to tackle, and several new pre-identified as one of the barriers to cost-effec- system architectures were proposed for furtive, high-efficiency off-road vehicles. The DOE has ther investigation, including the integration of existing components, systems that could successfully decouple hydrauAll of this matters because it is through lic pumps from engine speed and/or federal programs like this that the acadisable hydraulic work circuits when demic careers of fluid power faculty and not in use, and “distributed” hydraugraduate students can best be supported. lic systems, where individual pumps already awarded several multimillion-dollar grants directly drove each work function when needed. in this research program to help solve some of fluid • Develop more efficient component technolopower’s efficiency challenges, and the workshop gies. There were lots of ideas discussed for design was the primary opportunity for NFPA and its part- improvements to fluid power pumps, motors, ners to suggest directions for future funding awards. and valves, including the further exploration of I, in fact, moderated a breakout session on this additive manufacturing and new materials for very topic. After two hours of discussion, here’s the component prototyping and construction. short list of recommendations that we came up with: • Use “smart” technology to increase control and

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N F PA U P D AT E efficiency. The practical use of real-time feedback on component or fluid performance to drive more efficient system control was near the top of this list, with the acknowledgement that more inexpensive and reliable sensors would be needed to make such an objective possible. and use advanced fluids that can • Develop increase energy efficiency. As hydraulic fluid becomes more and more technically advanced, the co-development of those fluids with the components that they will work with was seen as critical. Examinations of wear on traditional components could provide insights into the smart materials or coatings necessary to produce components better aligned with new low viscosity grade and high viscosity index fluids. energy density of fluid power • Increase energy storage to facilitate cost-effective hybridization. Hydraulic accumulators beat electric batteries when it comes to power density, but not when it comes to energy density. To better close this gap, explorations into non-traditional energy storage technologies were recommended, as well as reductions in the size and weight of traditional accumulators. Finally, there was a long discussion on the need for an objective way to measure the impact of any or all of these ideas on system efficiency. Knowing that the off-road vehicle market contains hundreds of vehicles with thousands of different duty cycles, the development of a standardized duty cycle

was dismissed in favor of a few elementary metrics for systems, components and fluids that incorporate both steady state and dynamic conditions. For example, standardized metrics could be developed for torque and speed from rotary output in steady state, ramp up, and ramp down conditions. It was believed that such a set of metrics could allow the comparison of different architectures and components without linking it to a specific mission profile. What the DOE decides to do with this input remains to be seen, but we are expecting a full report from the workshop by the end of the year, and, probably a broad agency announcement for new funded projects shortly thereafter. All of this matters because it is through federal programs like this that the academic careers of fluid power faculty and graduate students can best be supported. These are the people who are and who will be teaching fluid power to the next several generations of undergraduate engineering students – students that our industry seeks to hire and whose fluid power skills will make or break the next several generations of fluid power products. NFPA played a role, but it was the Center for Compact and Efficient Fluid Power (CCEFP) that did the hard work necessary to get such a program launched within the DOE. The least we can do now is stay engaged and to help ensure that the available funding goes to industry-relevant projects.

2019 NFPA Annual Conference

INDUSTRY LEADERS FROM across the Internet of Things in fluid power, as well the fluid power supply chain will as what to consider when developing a stratconvene at the Montage Laguna Beach in egy for implementation. Laguna Beach, California, on March 5-7 for • Geopolitical strategist Peter Zeihan will the National Fluid Power Association’s 2019 go in depth into the current state of global Annual Conference. geopolitics, specifically as it relates to free This year’s conference features an trade, and how it expanded general session: affects businesses. Harburg of the Kellogg School of ManBecause of the For more details about • Fred the conference, visit agement will use his expertise in executive diversity of NFPA’s http://nfpahub.com/ coaching and growth guidance to help members and their events/conferences/ attendees identify ways to maximize their reasons for attendnfpa-annual-conference ing the conference, leadership impact through authenticity. Lawrence of Texas A&M University the speakers appeal • Barry will provide insights to increase attendees’ across the fluid power supply chain and understanding of profitability in distribution. deliver a broad spectrum of insights. • Jeremy Drury, the vice president of IoT DiagOther conference highlights include golf nostics, will bring attendees up to speed on and off-site tours. WWW.IFPS.ORG • WWW.FLUIDPOWERJOURNAL.COM

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Dynamic conferences, meetings and webcasts keep our members up to date on the latest economic conditions, emerging trends and industry insights for today’s ever‐changing economic climate.

N F PA U P D AT E

You have the Ideas, We Provide the Tools From point‐and‐click online tools that automate time‐consuming calculations, trend analysis, and custom forecasting to a user‐friendly web dashboard that allows members custom access to industry information.

Hydraulic and Pneumatic Industry Trends

Find out how to become part of NFPA by calling Leslie Miller at 414‐778‐3369, or email at lmiller@nfpa.com. Market information questions? Contact Eric Armstrong at earmstrong@nfpa.com or 414‐778‐3372.

Raw Index Data, Index: 2013=100

130.0 120.0 110.0 100.0 90.0 80.0

Industrial Hydraulic

Jun‐18

Aug‐18

Apr‐18

Feb‐18

Oct‐17

Dec‐17

Jun‐17

Aug‐17

Apr‐17

Feb‐17

Oct‐16

Dec‐16

Jun‐16

Aug‐16

Apr‐16

Feb‐16

Oct‐15

Dec‐15

Jun‐15

Mobile Hydraulic

Aug‐15

Apr‐15

Feb‐15

Oct‐14

Dec‐14

Jun‐14

Aug‐14

60.0

Apr‐14

70.0 Feb‐14

THE LATEST DATA published by the National Fluid Power Association shows industry shipments of fluid power products for September 2018 increased 4.6% when compared to September 2017, and decreased 9.7% when compared to last month. Mobile hydraulic and industrial hydraulic shipments increased, while pneumatic shipments decreased in September 2018 when compared to September 2017. Mobile hydraulic, industrial hydraulic, and pneumatic shipments decreased when compared to last month. These charts are drawn from data collected from more than 85 manufacturers of fluid power products by NFPA’s Confidential Shipment Statistics (CSS) program. Much more information is available to NFPA members, which allows them to better understand trends and anticipate change in their market and the customer markets they serve.

Dec‐13

Hydraulic and Pneumatic Shipments Hydraulic and Pneumatic Shipments Raw Index Data, Index: 2013=100

Total Pneumatic

2018 total dollar volume for pneumatic shipments are 91.6% of the average monthly dollar volume in 2013. (Base Year 2013 = 100) Caps • Plugs • Grips Protection • Finishing • Masking ® Many Sizes and Styles in Stock

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Magnetic filtration operating principle: It is the most effective means of removing ferrous particles from industrial fluids.  For pressures up to 1160 psi  High intensity rare earth magnetic material filtration operating principle: It is the most effective means  Sub-micron filtrationMagnetic of removing ferrous particles from industrial fluids.  Suitable for all machining • Foroperations pressures up to 1160 psi • Environmentally • High intensity rare earth responsible  Environmentally responsible magnetic material • No consumables • Sub-micron filtration • Can be cleaned in 30  No consumables • Suitable for all machining seconds (tools included) operations  Can be cleaned in 30 seconds (tools included) Ann Arbor, MI, USA Flow Ezy Filters Ann Arbor, MI, USA Phone: (800) 237-1165 Phone: (800) 237-1165 1-800-633-6775 flowezy@flowezyfilters.com flowezy@flowezyfilters.com www.mocap.com sales@mocap.com www.flowezyfilters.com www.flowezyfilters.com CIRCLE 199

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This graph of raw index data is generated by the total dollar volume reported to NFPA by CSS participants and compared to the average monthly This graph of raw index data is generated by the total dollar volume reported to NFPA by CSS dollar volume in 2013. For example, the September 2018 total dollar volume for pneumatic shipments are 91.6% of the average monthly dollar volume in 2013. (Base Year 2013 = 100) participants and compared to the average monthly dollar volume in 2013. For example, the September

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Pneumatic, Mobile and Industrial Hydraulic Orders Index 100.0

140.0

N F PA U P D AT E

90.0

130.0

80.0

120.0

70.0

110.0

Pneumatic, Mobile and Industrial Hydraulic Orders Index

100.0

Each point on this graph represents the most recent 12 months Mobile Hydraulic Industrial Hydraulic of orders compared to the previous 12 months of orders. Each Each point on this graph represents the most recent 12 months of orders compared to the previous 12 months of orders. Each point can be point can be read as a percentage. For example, 111.8 (the read as a percentage. For example, 111.8 (the August 2018 level of the industrial hydraulic series) indicates that industrial hydraulic orders August 2018 level of the industrial hydraulic series) indicates received from September 2017 to August 2018 were 111.8% of the orders received from September 2016 to August 2017. (Base Year 2013 = that industrial hydraulic orders received from September 100) 2017 to August 2018 were 111.8% of the orders received from Total ‐ Hydraulic and Pneumatic Shipments September 2016 to August 2017. (Base Year 2013 = 100) Mobile Hydraulic Industrial Hydraulic Total Pneumatic

90.0 80.0 70.0

Total Pneumatic

Each point on this graph represents the most recent 12 months of orders compared to the previous 12 months of orders. Each point can be 110 read as a percentage. For example, 111.8 (the August 2018 level of the industrial hydraulic series) indicates that industrial hydraulic orders received from September 2017 to August 2018 were 111.8% of the orders received from September 2016 to August 2017. (Base Year 2013 = 100)

Total ‐ Hydraulic and Pneumatic Shipments

100

Total ‐ Hydraulic and Pneumatic Shipments

This graph of 12‐month moving averages shows 110

that in September 2018, hydraulic shipments increased and pneumatic shipments decreased. 100 (Base Year 2013 = 100)

70 80

SHIPMENTS

MONTH 70

TOTAL FLUID POWER

TOTAL HYD.

TOTAL PNEU.

June 2018

10.6

11.8

2.6

July 2018

11.1 Total Fluid Power 13.0

Total Fluid Power

Total Pneumatic

Total Hydraulic

This graph of 12‐month moving averages shows that in September 2018, hydraulic shipments increased and pneumatic shipments decreased. (Base Year 2013 = 100)

Stops Leaking

FlangeLock™

Total Hydraulic August 2018 10.8 12.9 2.6 This graph of 12‐month moving averages shows that in September 2018, hydraulic shipments increased and pneumatic shipments decreased. (Base Year 2013 = 100) Shipments – Cumulative year‐to‐date % change (2018 vs. 2017) The table above is expressed in terms of cumulative percent changes. These changes refer to the • No tools required percent difference between the relevant cumulative • No expensive hardware needed total for 2018 and the total for the same months • No more rags stuffed into hoses 2.7 Total Pneumatic

HYDRAULIC LINES

in 2017. For example, August 2018 pneumatic shipments figure of 2.6 means that for the calendar year through August 2018, pneumatic shipments increased 2.6% compared to the same time period in 2017. (Base Year 2013 = 100)

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JANUARY 2019

LINEAR DISPLACEMENT TRANSDUCERS STRONG, TOUGH AND RELIABLE

Take on the Most-Demanding Applications By Blake Cawley, Product Manager, AMETEK Factory Automation

The importance of automation is greater than ever, as is the role played in automation by linear displacement transducers (LDTs). Today’s industrial challenges often involve pounding, continuous vibration, high pressure, extreme temperatures, and relentless cycling. LDTs have proven to provide accurate, reliable, absolute position feedback under extreme conditions in the most-demanding industrial environments, while, at same time, delivering value, easy set-up, and flexibility.

range of automation solutions can provide accurate, continuous position feedback, but LDTs incorporating advanced magnetostrictive technology can provide precise, accurate, and absolute non-contact position feedback down to one-micron resolution. The technology itself is not new, nor is it rocket science. However, most importantly for many industrial applications, it is extremely rugged. LDT sensors can be packaged to survive the most hostile industrial environments, while performing reliable, repeatable, and accurate linear measurements. Magnetostrictive technology relies on the same physical principles that allow motors and generators to operate. This is basically how it works. In the head of the LDT is circuitry that generates a pulse of current that is sent down a special ferromagnetic (magnetostrictive) wire inside the sensor’s 32

JANUARY 2019

GEMCO® 953Vmax fully digital linear displacement transducer with SSI output for highly demanding applications and environments.

protective tube or extrusion. Outside the tube is a movable magnetic target. When the pulse interacts with the magnetic field, it generates a torsional twist that travels along the length of the wire at a fixed rate of speed that can be precisely measured. The position of the magnet can be determined by measuring the time between the launch of the current pulse and the arrival of the torsion strain pulse. No direct contact is involved, and, along with that, absolutely no wear on the sensing element. While many linear automation solutions provide accurate continuous linear position feedback, the

most traditional approach uses an analog signal feedback to an analog input module or drive. Analog signals are limited by the resolution of the sensor and the input module. In addition, signals are prone to degrade over long cable runs, and each axis needs its own dedicated cable. LDT users have overcome those shortcomings with Synchronous Serial Interface (SSI) sensors. SSI LDTs can provide serial-clocked output of binary or Gray code positional data with one-micron resolution regardless of stroke length of the sensor or the length of the cable run. The displacement value, or position, is encoded into

24-, 25- or 26-bit formats and transmitted at high speeds. Synchronization in a closedloop system is relatively easy. A clock-pulse train from a controller is used to shift out sensor data. One bit of position data is transmitted to the controller for each clock pulse received by the sensor. Absolute position data is updated continually by the sensor and converted by the shift register into serial information. SSI LDTs can interface seamlessly with virtually any programmable controller that can communicate with an SSI device. One disadvantage is the modules typically can’t handle more than two axis per module, and each axis requires its own cable. Among the most recent technical developments are networked LDTs that provide non-contact feedback and one-micron resolution, while offering maximum installation flexibility and ease of use in highly demanding networked industrial applications. These include pulp

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Stand-alone, rod-style linear displacement transducer in mill-duty housing for harsh operating conditions. The rugged housing protects the LDT from damage due to temperature, corrosion, shock, vibration, dust and debris. In the head of the linear displacement transducer, circuitry generates a current pulse that is sent down a special ferromagnetic (magnetostrictive) wire inside the sensor’s protective tube or extrusion.

and paper, steel mills; lumber and forest products equipment; primary and secondary metals processing, such as stamping, roll forming and die-casting; tire and rubber, plastic injection-molding; and material handling machinery. LDTs typically find application in a broad range of industries that require a machine or a piece of equipment to move in a linear fashion and feedback to automate it. LDTs are available in two package styles: the traditional Rod Style package suitable for installation into hydraulic cylinders and the Profile Style that incorporates similar electronics, but houses those electronics in an aluminium extrusion for ease of mounting. Some Rod Style transducers are rated for up to 30 Gs of vibration and 1,000 Gs of shock, and are available in a wide range of outputs, allowing them to interface with a variety of host controllers. The choice of style depends on what works best for an application. Rod Style transducers, for example, are preferred for hydraulic cylinders because of the LDT’s ability to withstand operating pressures up to 5,000 PSI that at times can spike to 10,000 PSI. For an LDT to operate properly

These linear transducers use magnetostrictive time-based position sensing in which a pulse is sent down a magnetostrictive wire in a specially designed waveguide.

The interaction of this current pulse with the magnetic field created by a movable magnet assembly produces a torsional strain pulse on the wire. Which travels at sonic speed along the wire.

GEMCO®958A compact-housing, rod style transducer designed specifically with the hydraulic cylinder market in mind.

in a hydraulic cylinder, it must be prepped to accept a Rod Style transducer. The cylinder piston must be gun drilled with a 12.7mm (half-inch) bore and the end cap machined to accept a linear transducer. A magnet also must be added to the cylinder’s piston. On Clevis style cylinders, there is typically no room to mount a traditional Rod Style transducer. In this instance, there is an embedded-style transducer package that totally encapsulates the LDT inside the cylinder, protecting it from outside conditions and making it resistant to contaminants and other hazards. This compact housing LDT is the ideal for agricultural,

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construction, and mining equipment and commercial vehicles. LDTs also have become smarter. Many models are now field configurable for output type, zero position, counting direction, position and velocity format, and resolution. Some, more-sophisticated sensors can even support wide ranging power supplies (7VDC to 30VDC), so the same unit can be used in both stationary and in mobile applications. These wide-ranging power supply capabilities allow newer linear transducers to be backward compatible with older generations that need a +/-15V bipolar supply. Diagnostic LEDs also have been added to aid with

The strain pulse traveling up the wire is sensed by a small induction pickup coil in the head assembly. The movable magnet’s position is determined with precision by measuring the time between launching the current pulse and the arrival of the torsional strain pulse.

troubleshooting, and standardized cables, such as 12mm Euro-style cord sets, are available as an option, helping to reduce installation costs. Automatic gain, or AGC, was introduced years ago to help compensate for different style magnets found in hydraulic cylinders. On power up, most sensors are now able measure the strength of the magnet and automatically adjust its internal signal lengths to match the user’s installed magnet. This is a benefit in hydraulic cylinder applications in which the brand of installed magnet is a different from that of the sensor. Linear displacement transducers have proven their value over the years by delivering reliable position measurement for a broad range of applications. Furthering their application in industrial automation has been the ability of LDT makers to design and build sensors that meet and exceed customer expectations in the harshest and most-demanding circumstances.  JANUARY 2019

the world of high-speed factory automation, speed is everything. Manufacturing processes require fast cycle rates to increase output and overall production efficiency. This article discusses strategies to implement in vacuum pick and place applications to minimize production cycle times. There are many contributing factors with some more effective than others. However, as we all know, every fraction of a second counts.

VACUUM PICK AND PLACE

HIGH-SPEED CYCLE TIME REDUCTION By Dane Spivak, and illustrations by Daniel Pascoe, Davasol Inc.

Figure 1: Vacuum cup compression distance

VACUUM CUP SELECTION The most important part of vacuum cup selection is determining a model that offers an adequate seal to safely lift the product. If this is achieved, the following cup characteristics are to be considered in cycle time reduction – cup style, material, and internal volume. The style of a cup will determine how long it takes for the product being gripped to meet with the datum point inside of the cup. Or in other words, the time it takes for the cup to compress under vacuum. Figure 1 compares a flat-ribbed cup to a multiple bellows cup. As indicated by the arrows, the distance the cups must compress before meeting its datum point (the internal base of the cup) is drastically different. The lesser this distance, the less time it takes for the cup to compress. The reverse effect of compression can also disturb cycle rates. Commonly referred to as material memory, the cup deforms under vacuum, and when vacuum is released and the product is dropped, there is a time consideration while the cup returns to its original state of rest. 34

JANUARY 2019

Figure 2 shows two cups with the same compression distance. The foam cup on the right has poor material memory compared to the rubber cup on the left. This means the foam cup needs more time to return to its original state to start the cycle. The internal volume of a vacuum cup determines how much air needs to be evacuated to achieve the desired vacuum level. Since the lip diameter of the cup is directly related to the lifting force, the first step is to size the diameter of the cup correctly to lift the parts securely. Ideally the smallest diameter of cup should be chosen to reduce the inner cup volume. Next, we look at the inside of the vacuum cup and how much volume of air it contains. Again, ideally, we would like to reduce this volume as much as possible. Reverting back to Figure 1, the flat cup on the left is preferred to the bellows cup on the right. Conveniently enough this aligns with the compression aspect of the vacuum cup previously discussed. So what can we conclude from the aforementioned? When selecting a vacuum cup for a high-speed

Figure 2: Vacuum cup material memory

Figure 3: Typical cup, vacuum valve, and pump circuit

application, it is best to use a small, flat, low-volume cup with good memory. VACUUM VALVE LOCATION In a typical vacuum pick and place application, the vacuum valve is located somewhere between the cup and pump to turn vacuum on or off as demonstrated in Figure 3. The valve location is critical to the pick and drop speed of the product.

Assuming the pump is running constantly, the vacuum line between the pump and the valve acts as a vacuum reservoir and “recharges” the vacuum line when the valve is closed. This volume, which we will refer to as V1, is important as we will see in the following analysis. When the valve opens to allow vacuum to be applied to the cup, the air from the valve to the cup lip is the volume of

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air to be evacuated. This is the other important volume, which we will re refer to as V2. The sum of volumes V1 and V2 will be referred to as VT. To decrease cycle rates, the goal is to have a high ratio of V1/V2. A larger volume of V1 will allow for a more efficient vacuum reservoir to evacuate V2. A smaller volume of V2 results in less air to be evacuated with the assistance of V1. Not only that, the V2 volume is related to the drop speed as well. The smaller the volume in V2 means less air to reintroduce and consequently less time to release the part. To further increase the release (exhaust) speed, a pulse of compressed air can be applied during the exhaust cycle. Back to the V1/V2 ratio, let’s apply the ideal gas law to this concept and see how it affects the vacuum level.

As shown in the above calculations, we see that when the V1/V2 ratio increases the initial vacuum level of the system is higher when the valve opens. This means that the overall vacuum level is higher and the pump needs to remove less air to achieve its highest desired vacuum level. The result is a quicker reaction of the cup and reduced time to meet faster cycle rates.

Vacuum flow, typically measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM) in North America, is the volumetric rate at which air is removed from a system. Flow is different from vacuum level. Vacuum level is the result of removing air from a system, which creates a pressure lower than atmospheric. Usually relatively high vacuum levels are easy to achieve, but getting to that vacuum level as quickly as possible is dependent

when the pump initially starts to run. However, the ACFM ratings, actual cubic feet per minute, is often more important to the overall performance of the pump. The ACFM ratings are flowrates at different vacuum levels (lower atmospheric pressure). Figure 4 compares a regenerative blower curve to that of a venturi. Both units have Both units have comparable SCFM

pT x VT = p1 x V1 where p is pressure (vacuum level) and V is volume p1 x V1 p1 x V1 pT = _______ = _______ V1 + V2 VT where pT is the vacuum level when the valve is open to the cup

Let’s consider two scenarios with different volumes while the pressure is constant. We won’t use units for simplicity. Arbitrary numbers have been chosen below.

p1 = 10; V1 = 5; When V2 = 5,

V1 =1 V2

10 x 5 =5 5+5 V1 =5 When V2 = 1, V2 10 x 5 pT = = 8.3 5+1 pT =

Figure 4: Regenerative blower and venturi vacuum flow versus vacuum level

Another quick note about vacuum valves. The cycle speed of the valve itself and flow capabilities will provide different results. Quicker cycled valves and flows which match the pump performance are critical. Flow will be discussed in further detail in the coming sections. CHOOSING YOUR PUMP It’s well known that vacuum generation units are key to the performance in any system, and it is no different in high-speed applications. Popular pick and place pumps include vane pumps, regenerative blowers, and air powered venturi generators. There are many more options but, in all cases, related to cycle time, the area of focus is vacuum flow.

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on the flow. Higher flow pumps will achieve the final vacuum level sooner and decrease the cycle time. All vacuum pumps have published flow ratings though these listed numbers can be interpreted differently. Specific types of pumps will result in different flow performances, even if they have the same listed value in literature. Let’s continue using the CFM units previously defined. Most flow ratings listed in data sheets or catalogs are associated with the pumps SCFM rating. This is the standard cubic feet per minute measurement, which is correlated to the pumps flow performance at standard temperature and pressure. In our case, this is an ambient temperature of 68°F (20°C) at an atmospheric pressure of 14.7psia (0.1 MPa)

ratings of 80SCFM though the curves demonstrate that ACFM values create a substantial gap. If we consider the values at 12”Hg, we can see that the blower offers around 50ACFM, while the venture only provides 10ACFM. The blower is pulling an additional 40CFM. We conclude that the blower provides shorter evacuation times to reach vacuum levels between zero and 18”Hg. What we learned from this analysis is that the listed ratings of pumps provide limited information. The flow vs vacuum level curve should be understood to truly maximize cycle speed. Although they may not be the ideal type of vacuum generator for high-speed applications, venturis are often implemented in pick and place. Venturis consume JANUARY 2019

compressed air to generate vacuum and are used for their low cost, low weight, and application simplicity. As shown in Figure 5, a vacuum cup is often close-coupled to the venturi for point-of-use generation. Single-stage venturis offer quicker pick speeds than multistaged units. This occurs because multi-staged units have multiple stages that the compressed air must travel through as the name suggests. Single-staged units have one stage, and therefore, react faster. Venturi reaction speed also relies on the pneumatic plumbing arrangement. A smaller volume of compressed air that must travel to reach the venturi will take less time to initiate vacuum generation. As with the vacuum valve, the pressure valve should be mounted as close as practical to the venturi.

Vacuum cylinders are quick reacting. The cylinder has a maximum stroke, but if the cup seals against the product anywhere through the piston stroke, it will instantly retract, resulting in cylinder cycle times of fractions of a second. SIZING PARTS We’ve touched on vacuum flow and CFM ratings in this article and its importance to pick up speed. This concept is applied throughout the vacuum system

VACUUM CYLINDERS The vacuum cylinder is a product that is generally not well known though it can offer many benefits, particularly in high-speed applications. Vacuum cylinders are used to provide vertical positional movement of vacuum cups often referred to as the z-axis travel. They can often replace pneumatic and electric cylinders and use the existing vacuum source from the cup to power the cylinder. Figure 6 breaks down the function of the vacuum cylinder step by step. <1> The vacuum cylinder is at rest with the piston rod retracted in the up position <2> When vacuum is applied, the piston moves downwards (extends) until the vacuum cup, which is attached to the piston via the connection thread, seals against the load to be lifted <3> Both sides of the cylinder are now equalized, and the internal spring retracts the cylinder rod to its original position holding the part securely <4> When vacuum is turned off the part is released from the vacuum suction cup

JANUARY 2019

with every component from the pump vacuum port right down to the vacuum cup. All other interconnecting components, fittings, and hose should be sized accordingly to the pumps performance. Figure 7 shows a table of vacuum flow through orifices of different sizes. Each component of the vacuum system should be sized so the appropriate amount of flow can be handled. If one portion of the system restricts the flow, it affects everything downstream from that point. One weak link can cause

significant effects. Tubing or hoses should be chosen so that their flow rating is equal to or greater than the flow rating of the pump. Note that when vacuum lines or components are in parallel, the flow capacity can be added together. Other factors potentially decreasing flow performance are having unnecessary long lines or sharp turns in fittings and hose. Straight through flowing parts and smooth flowing vacuum lines are always a benefit. Lengthy hose can result in frictional flow losses and vacuum level drops. CONCLUSION In this article, we’ve covered a few strategies to reduce cycle times in vacuum pick and place applications including cup selection, vacuum valve location, pump choice, vacuum cylinders, and sizing components. These strategies are a technical guide to assist in understanding fundamental principles. Each application is unique and should be studied independently to find which solution is the best fit. 

Figure 5: Venturi and vacuum cup assembly Figure 6: Vacuum cylinder operation and circuits

Figure 7: Vacuum flow in CFM through orifice sizes at different vacuum levels

Orifice Diameter (in)"

VACUUM IN INCHES OF MERCURY 2"

10"

12"

14"

18"

24"

1/64"

.018

.026

.032

.037

.041

.045

.048

.055

.063

1/32"

.074

.100

.128

.148

.165

.180

.195

.220

.250

1/16"

.300

.420

.517

.595

.660

.725

.780

.880

1.00

1/8"

1.20

1.68

2.06

2.37

2.64

2.89

3.12

3.53

4.04

1/4"

4.78

6.74

8.25

9.52

10.6

11.6

12.4

14.0

16.2

3/8"

10.8

15.2

18.5

21.4

23.8

26.0

28.0

31.8

36.4

1/2"

19.1

27.0

33.0

38.5

42.3

46.3

50.0

56.5

64.6

5/8"

30.0

42.2

51.7

59.5

66.2

72.6

78.0

88.0

101

3/4"

43.0

60.6

74.0

85.3

95.2

104

112

127

145

7/8"

58.8

82.6

101

116

130

142

153

173

198

76.5

108

131

152

169

185

200

225

258

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I N D U S T RY N E W S

Danfoss Acquires Majority Shares in Disruptive Technology Leader DANFOSS ANNOUNCES the acquisition of the majority shares of Artemis Intelligent Power Ltd. (AIP), an R&D and engineering company based in Edinburgh, Scotland, specializing in hydraulic system development. The acquisition includes AIP’s Digital Displacement technology, which will enable Danfoss to develop hydraulic pumps, motors and systems with unprecedented levels of efficiency, controllability and design flexibility for customers. Danfoss will establish a manufacturing presence in Edinburgh to deliver products to the market based on the Digital Displacement technology, while establishing Edinburgh as the Centre of Excellence for this technology. “Digitalization is a key driver in our industry and AIP constitutes a strategic fit with our ambition for technology leadership, innovation speed, and the core product differentiators of efficiency and controllability. The Digital Displacement technology will provide Danfoss with a competitive advantage in developing innovative Danfoss products and systems and bringing them to the market. The team at AIP has the right entrepreneurial spirit and agile mindset, and I’m looking forward to welcoming them to Danfoss,” says Eric Alström, president of Danfoss Power Solutions. Jeff Herrin, vice president of R&D at Danfoss Power Solutions, comments: “Danfoss Power Solutions and AIP have enjoyed many years of close relationship, working on the development of the Digital Displacement technology together. We look forward to commercializing the Digital Displacement technology in a new family of hydraulic pumps. With this new collaboration with both AIP and MHI, these development activities will accelerate and broaden in scope. I’m truly looking forward to working closely with MHI colleagues to fully develop the potential of the AIP business and its associated technologies.” www.danfoss.com

Clippard Releases New Precision Flow Controls Catalog CLIPPARD DESIGNS and manufacturers over 5,000 standard and custom products, including electronic, control and isolation valves, cylinders, manifolds, FRLs, actuators, custom assemblies, and much more. Known for quality, value and reliability, Clippard’s products are sold through a worldwide distributor network that offers products plus design engineering experience. Proudly made in the USA. ISO 9001:2017. For more information about any of Clippard’s 5,000 standard and custom products and assemblies, call 877-245-6247 or visit www.clippard.com/link/ fpj2603311. WWW.IFPS.ORG • WWW.FLUIDPOWERJOURNAL.COM

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JANUARY 2019

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Trelleborg to Showcase Online Seals Shop at Valve World Expo TRELLEBORG SEALING Solutions will be showcasing its online 'Seals-Shop.com' service at Valve World Expo, which runs from November 27 to 28 in Düsseldorf, Germany. The e-commerce platform focuses primarily on hydraulic seals for the Maintenance, Repair and Operations (MRO) market and smaller Original Equipment Manufacturing (OEM) customers throughout Europe. More than 10,500 items are available on the platform for dispatch Europe-wide within days, including a broad range of standard seals, such as O-Rings, rod and piston seals, plus rotary and static seals. These are suitable for a wide range of applications, from simple linear systems through to heavy-duty rotary requirements. Florent Guillomeau, general manager of Seals-Shop, said: "Seals-Shop enables us to reach new customers, primarily in the aftermarket, and offer them convenient and direct access to a wide portfolio of quality precision seals. It broadens Trelleborg's offering and helps smaller OEMs reach optimal system performance." Seals-Shop is available in five languages, allowing English, German, French, Italian and Spanish speakers to experience all the features of the Seal-Shop. These include the new Product Finder, which allows users to easily find comparable Trelleborg seals to those already existing in the market, along with installation instructions and articles containing useful tips relevant to applications from various areas of industry. Customers can also now view the expected availability of out of stock items. www.seals-shop.com

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JANUARY 2019

Company...............................Page... Circle

AGI - American Grippers Inc......13....... 204

Flow Ezy Filters Inc......................23........211

MOCAP INC..................................30........199

Aignep USA...................................12....... 203

Fluidyne Fluid Power....Inside Front........182

MOCAP INC..................................23........213

Aignep USA...................................28........197

Fluidyne Fluid Power...................24........216

Polyconn........................Back Cover........181

Anchor Fluid Power.....................16........191

Honor Pumps U.S.A....................27........196

Polyconn........................................22....... 208

Anchor Fluid Power.....................22....... 207

Honor Pumps U.S.A....................23........214

Power Valve U.S.A.......................37....... 202

CFC Industrial Training...............29........198

Hydraulics Inc..............................15........189

Power Valve U.S.A.......................25....... 221

Co-Ax Valves............... Inside Back........183

Hydraulics Inc..............................24........215

Super Swivels.................................9........186

Cyber-Tech Inc.............................19........194

Inserta Products..........................18........193

Tribal Manufacturing...................27........195

Cyber-Tech Inc.............................23........212

Inserta Products..........................22........210

WEH Technologies Inc................17........192

Electro Hydraulic Machinery.....12....... 205

J/T Hydraulics & Service Co......25....... 222

WEH Technologies Inc................22....... 209

Festo Corp.......................................3........185

La-Man Corp.................................11........188

Yates Industries Inc.......................1....... 184

Festo Corp.....................................24........218

Main Manufacturing

Yates Industries Inc.....................13....... 206

Flange Lock..................................31....... 201

Products Inc.................................11........187

Youli-America...............................15........190

Flange Lock..................................25....... 220

Main Manufacturing

Youli-America...............................24........217

Flow Ezy Filters Inc......................30....... 200

Products Inc.................................25........219

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READER SERVICE FORM

For complimentary information, mail or fax completed form to: c/o iPacesetters P.O. Box 413050 • Naples, FL 34101-6795 Fax: 888-847-6035 TYPE OR PRINT ONLY: Name Title Company Company Address City

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Web Address E-Mail Address

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1. Do you specify, select, or influence the purchase of components & systems on new or existing machinery? If yes, in which technologies? (check all that apply) 05  Hydraulic 06  Pneumatic 07  Vacuum 2. What is your primary job title? (check all that apply)

10  Administration 13  Technical

11  Plant Operations 14  Mechanical

3. Which of the following best describes your market focus? A  Aerospace I  Forestry B  Agricultural Machinery J  Furnaces C  Automotive K  Gas & Oilfield Machinery D  Civil Engineering L  Heavy Construction E  Cranes & Equipment F  Drills & Drilling Equipment M  Military Vehicles G  Flame Cutting/Welding N  Construction & Utility Equipment Equipment O  Machine Tools H  Food Machinery P  Government Related 4. Number of employees at this location?

A  1-19

B  20-49

245 246 247 248 249 250 251 252 253 254 255 256 257 258 259 260 261 262 263 264 265 266 267 268 269 270 271 272 273

274 275 276 277 278 279 280 281 282 283 284 285 286 287 288 289 290 291 292 293 294 295 296 297 298 299 300 301 302

D  100-249

5. What is the primary business activity at this location? In the Fluid Power Industry: 56  Manufacturer 57  Distributor Outside the Fluid Power Industry: 59  Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) 6. In which region does your company do business? (check all that apply) 61  East 62  Midwest 63  Southeast 64  Southwest

332 333 334 335 336 337 338 339 340 341 342 343 344 345 346 347 348 349 350 351 352 353 354 355 356 357 358 359 360

361 362 363 364 365 366 367 368 369 370 371 372 373 374 375 376 377 378 379 380 381 382 383 384 385 386 387 388 389

03  Yes 04  No 08  Electronic Controls

12  Engineering 15  Purchasing

A  Marine & Offshore Equipment B  Material Handling Equipment C  Mining Machinery D  Packaging Machinery E  Plastic Machinery F  Presses & Foundry G  Railroad Machinery H  Road Construction/ Maintenance Equipment

C  50-99

303 304 305 306 307 308 309 310 311 312 313 314 315 316 317 318 319 320 321 322 323 324 325 326 327 328 329 330 331

E  250-499

390 391 392 393 394 395 396 397 398 399 400 401 402 403 404 405 406 407 408 409 410 411 412 413 414 415 416 417 418

419 420 421 422 423 424 425 426 427 428 429 430 431 432 433 434 435 436 437 438 439 440 441 442 443 444 445 446 447

448 449 450 451 452 453 454 455 456 457 458 459 460 461 462 463 464 465 466 467 468 469 470 471 472 473 474 475 476

477 478 479 480 481 482 483 484 485 486 487 488 489 490 491 492 493 494 495 496 497 498 499 500 501 502 503 504 505

09  None of these

16  Other

I  Simulators & Test Equipment J  Snow Vehicles, Ski Lifts K  Steel Plants & Rolling Mills L  Truck & Bus Industry M  Textile Machinery N  Woodworking Machines O  Other (specify) P  Fluid Power Industry F  500-999

G  1000+

58  Education 60  End User of Fluid Power Products 65  West

66  National

67  International

7. My Company should be advertising in or submit an article to the Fluid Power Journal. Please contact this person: Name: ___________________________________ Title: _________________________________ Phone: _______________________________________ 8. I wish to receive a free subscription to Fluid Power Journal:

01  Yes

02  No

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Signature Date 9. I would like more information on the following products: (Please check all that apply) 800  Accumulators 805  Filters 808  Hose & Tubing 801  Accessories 806  Gauges & Sensors 809  Hydraulic Fluids 802  Electronic Controls 807  Heat Exchangers, 810  Motors 803  Couplings & Fittings Heaters, Aftercoolers, 811  Pumps 804  Cylinders Dryers 812  Seals & Packing 10. I plan on purchasing the above products in the next: 68  0-3 months 69  3-6 months

70  6-9 months

Please send information about the International Fluid Power Society (check all that apply) 897  Membership 898  Certification 899  Training/Education

71  12+ months

813  Vacuum 814  Valves 815  Software

REQUEST FREE

product information online at fluidpowerjournal.com

ISSUE: January 2019 EXPIRES: February 28, 2019

SUBSCRIBE BY MAIL FILL OUT THIS CARD COMPLETELY, DETACH, AND MAIL OR FAX IT TO START YOUR SUBSCRIPTION MAIL TO: PO BOX 2548 • ORLANDO, FL 32802-9830 • FAX: 1-866-207-1450 YOU CAN ALSO SUBSCRIBE ONLINE AT WWW.FLUIDPOWERJOURNAL.COM. 01  YES! Please start/continue my complimentary subscription to the Fluid Power Journal Signature (required)

Title (required)

Date (required)

Telephone

Fax

E-mail

02  NO. Not interested. /

Please Type or Print Clearly: First Name

Middle Initial

Last Name

Company

Division

Web Address

Address

Mail Stop

City

State

Zip Code

 Check here if you would like to keep your name, address, phone and fax numbers confidential, and not released to third parties The address above is my:  Home Address  Business Address Which edition would you like to receive?  Print  Digital  Both (View a sample of our PAPERLESS digital edition at www.fluidpowerjournal.com) 1. Do you specify, select or influence the purchase of components & systems, on new or existing machinery? If yes, which technologies? (check all that apply) 05  Hydraulic 06  Pneumatic 07  Vacuum 08  Electronic Controls

03  Yes

04  No.

09  None of These

2. What is your primary job title? (check only one) 10  Administration: Chairman, President, V.P., Secretary, Treasury, General Manager, Owner, Business Manager, Director, etc. 11  Plant Operations: VP of Manufacturing/ Operation/ Production, Plant Management/ Director/ Manager/ Supervisor/ Superintendent/ Foreman/ Safety Director, etc. 12  Engineering: V.P. Eng., Eng., Design Eng., Director of Eng., Staff Specialist, Chief Eng., Senior Eng., Maintenance/Production Eng., etc. 13  Technical: Chief Tech., Fluid Power Tech., etc. 14  Mechanical: Chief Master Mech., Master Mech., Fluid Power Mech., etc. 15  Purchasing: VP/Director of Purch., Procurement Manager, Buyer, Purch., etc. 16  Other: (please specify)_________________________________________________________________________________________________ 3. Number of employees at this location? A  1-19 B  20-49 C  50-99

D  100-249

E  250-499

F  500-999

4. What is the primary business activity at this location? In the Fluid Power Industry, Outside the Fluid Power Industry 56  Manufacturer 57  Distributor 58  Education 59  Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) 61  Other: (please specify)__________________________________________ 5. Which of the following best describes your market focus? A  Aerospace A  Marine & Offshore Equipment B  Agricultural Machinery B  Material Handling Equipment C  Automotive C  Mining Machinery D  Civil Engineering D  Packaging Machinery E  Cranes E  Plastic Machinery F  Drills & Drilling Equip. F  Presses & Foundry G  Flame Cutting/Welding Equip. G  Railroad Machinery H  Food Machinery H  Road Construct/Maint. Equip. I  Forestry I  Simulators & Test Equipment J  Furnaces J  Snow Vehicles, Ski Lifts K  Gas & Oilfield Machinery K  Steel Plants & Rolling Mills L  Heavy Construction & Equip. L  Truck & Bus Industry M  Military Vehicles M  Textile Machinery N  Construction & Utility Equip. N  Woodworking Machines O  Machine Tools O  Other (specify)_____________ P  Government Related P  Fluid Power Industry

G  1000+

60  End User of Fluid Power Products

MY COMPANY SHOULD BE ADVERTISING IN OR SUBMIT AN ARTICLE TO THE FLUID POWER JOURNAL. PLEASE CONTACT THIS PERSON: NAME:_ _____________________________________ TITLE:_______________________________________

SCAN HERE

PHONE:_____________________________________

CIRCLE 183

STAINLESS STEEL FITTINGS AVAILABLE IN INCH AND METRIC

Providing Over

30 Years of Outstanding Service

3062 Ranchview Lane N, Plymouth, MN 55447 Phone: 763-559-0388 Fax: 763-398-2590 Email: sales@polyconn.com Web: www.polyconn.com CIRCLE 181