December 2020 The Engineer’s guide to new products & design ideas
A medical miracle: 3D printing saves spine 06: Robotics
32: Bearings
Pharmaceutical automation: Send in the robots
Perfect fit: Raising the standard of bearing mounting
Contents
December 2020 The Engineer’s guide to new products & design ideas
Paige’s Page: 04: Editor’s comment Online hub to help inspire tomorrow’s engineers
Medical & Pharmaceutical Supplement:
A medical miracle: 3D printing saves spine 06: Robotics
32: Bearings
Pharmaceutical automation: Send in the robots
Perfect fit: raising the standard of bearing mounting
Cover Story:
201016_9-6_Mill_DPA_UK_Snipe.indd 1
06: Robotics 10/14/20 3:22 PM
Newcastle Hospital used a 3D-printed anatomical model to simulate an operation, improving the patient experience and saving £8000 in costs. p.10 (Cover image: Formlabs)
Group Editor: Paige West paige.west@imlgroup.co.uk Assistant Editor: Sophia Bell sophia.bell@imlgroup.co.uk Publisher: Andrew Quenault andrew.quenault@imlgroup.co.uk
Pharmaceutical automation: Send in the robots
08: DC motors
Simplifying surgical power tool design
10: 3D printing
12: RF connector
Quick-disconnect connector for a cochlear implant
14: Medical power supplies
Balancing thermal design with safety regulations
Drives & Motion Control Special Report:
Production: Holly Reed holly.reed@imlgroup.co.uk
16: CNC upgrade programme
Design: Graham Rich Design www.grahamrichdesign.co.uk
18: Commander drives
Head Office: IML Group, Blair House, 184/186 High Street, Tonbridge, Kent TN9 1BQ Tel: 01732 359990 E-mail: dpa@imlgroup.co.uk DPA ISSN 0965-4747 Copyright in the contents of Design Products & Applications, its websites and newsletters is the property of the publisher. The publisher and the sponsors of this magazine are not responsible for the results of any actions or omissions taken on the basis of information in this publication. In particular, no liability can be accepted in result of any claim based on or in relation to material provided for inclusion. Design Products & Applications is a controlled circulation journal, published monthly. Completed print or online registration forms will be considered for free supply of printed issues, website access and online services. Annual subscription for non-qualifying readers is UK £121, EU £215.25, Airmail £315 and single copy price is £18.60 monthly.
06
3D-printed anatomical models increase patient care
CNC upgrade programme provides major productivity advantage
Commander improves customer experience at London bowling alley
20: Digital twins The role of drives and condition monitoring in digital twins
Enclosures & Panel Products
32
Special Report: 23: Outdoor enclosures Keep electronic projects secure & weatherproof with the right enclosures
26: IT cooling Look beyond the norm for true innovation
28: Easy-assembly enclosures
At last, an enclosure designed to reduce assembly time
Bearings, Belts & Chains Technology Focus: 30: Bearings in extreme environments
10,000 Average net circulation Jan-Dec 2018
Reliable bearing designs for extreme environments
32: Bearing mounting Perfect fit: Raising the standard of bearing mounting
Circulation Tel: +44 (0)1732 359990 Email: subscriptions@imlgroup.co.uk
34: Winding belts
Seamless winding belts produce paper straws
34 dpaonthenet.net 3
Paige’s Page
Online hub to help inspire tomorrow’s engineers
T Paige West, Group Editor
omorrow’s Engineers Week, which took place last month, has announced a new online hub to provide information and guidance to those organisations supporting young people and inspiring them to pursue engineering careers.
crease the diversity and number of young
advice about how to become an engineer
people entering engineering.
in the future.
Signatories to the Code make four pledg-
Dr Hilary Leevers, Chief Executive of En-
es about their approach to funding, de-
gineeringUK, commented: “We would
signing, delivering, and learning from en-
like to thank the thousands of schools,
gineering-inspiration activities.
employers and professional engineering institutions that have come together to
The announcement comes after con-
make Tomorrow’s Engineers Week a huge
cerns were raised that, since March
success.
2020, over three quarters (76 percent) of 11-19-year olds have not accessed for-
“Let’s build on this week of collective ac-
mal careers activities.
tivity to ensure that all young people get the support they need to be inspired by
A new report on STEM education, the
and understand more about the thou-
Engineering UK 2020 Educational
sands of future engineering roles availa-
The new online resource will provide
Pathways into Engineering report,
ble in infrastructure, decarbonisation and
free advice and guidance, sourced from
indicated that progress has been made –
maintenance projects to upgrade our hos-
across the engineering community, to
there has been increased take-up of some
pitals, schools and road network, make
support practitioners in providing young
GCSE and A-level subjects that can lead
public buildings greener and help the UK
people with engineering careers inspira-
to engineering careers, such as biology,
achieve its aspirations of achieving Net
tion.
chemistry, physics, and computer sci-
Zero by 2050.
ence, while technical education reforms The site will cover a range of topics, from
are also enabling students to be more
“With the framework provided by the To-
suggestions on how to ensure an inclusive
prepared for the world of work. However,
morrow’s Engineers Code and the informa-
approach and develop engaging outreach
young people’s knowledge of engineering
tion and guidance shortly available via the
activities to ways to survey young people.
across all education stages still needs to
online hub, the engineering community will
be improved with just 42 percent of boys
be in a great position to achieve the collec-
The hub is also expected to provide sup-
and 31 percent of girls saying they know
tive impact needed to see an increase in
port to signatories and supporters of the
what they need to do next to become an
the number and diversity of young people
new Tomorrow’s Engineers Code which
engineer. There is also an acute shortage
entering engineering careers.”
was launched in October and is now man-
of STEM subject teachers in both second-
aged by EngineeringUK.
ary and further education.
The Code is a new approach to engage-
Tomorrow’s Engineers Week saw en-
ment, with professional engineering in-
gineering institutions, employers and
Do let us know what you think of the is-
stitutions, FTSE 100 corporates, SMEs,
schools come together to deliver inspiring
sue and if there are any specific topics you
government departments and universities
activities to show young people the vital
think we should be covering. Email me at
working towards common goals to in-
importance of engineering careers and
paige.west@imlgroup.co.uk
For more information, visit www.tomorrowsengineers.org.uk/teweek
4 dpaonthenet.net
Connect with us on LinkedIn. Join us on Twitter.
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Supplement: Medical & pharmaceutical
Pharmaceutical automation: Send in the robots
R
ecent years have seen the development of digital pills – tablets that combine traditional medicine with sensors that monitor the body after ingestion. This is just one example of how digitalisation is advancing pharmaceuticals. Here, Dave Walsha, Commercial Development Officer at Electrical Mechanical Systems (EMS), explores other areas in which digital automation is revolutionising pharmaceutical production.
Advancing pharmaceutical development
Robots can consistently and quickly dis-
and manufacturing facilities with auto-
pense multiple pipettes, improving the
mated systems will ensure the industry
odds and increasing the speed of drug
can continue to develop new medicines,
discovery.
increase production and bring relief to patients.
Exceptional accuracy Fortunately, robots’ speed does not com-
Super speed
promise their accuracy. Pharmaceutical
Automation boosts efficiency in many ar-
producers understand the delicate nature
eas of pharmaceutical production. In fact,
of their work; they must produce high pu-
The University of Liverpool has developed a
rity chemical compounds that save lives.
robot chemist that can perform a thousand
For this reason, pharmaceutical produc-
times faster than a human lab assistant.
tion has some of the strictest regulations in industry.
As well as a faster work rate, robots don’t tire or require breaks and sick days, mean-
Where a slight deviation in measurements
ing they can work for 24 hours a day. They
could turn a dose from safe to deadly, ro-
can perform a variety of tasks, from plac-
bots are one way of maintaining high levels
How often do we think about how our
ing dispenser caps on bottled medications
of precision and safety on the production
medicines are produced? We’ve perhaps
to filling syringes.
line. As they are programmed to perform
become complacent with our pharmaceu-
specific movements, robots can conduct
ticals, forgetting that just 100 years ago,
Robots can also transform biopharmaceu-
the same task repeatedly, ensuring con-
many ailments that are now easily treated
tical research. In the past, drug discovery
sistency between batches.
were fatal.
revolved around sheer luck – matching the right molecule to the right target after hun-
Cartesian coordinate robots are simple ro-
With a 2016 NHS survey finding that 48
dreds of thousands of tests. Automation
bots that work along three principal axes,
percent of adults take at least one pre-
takes luck out of the equation by enabling
each at a right angle to each other. This
scribed medicine every week, it’s safe to
high throughput screening of potential
arrangement allows for easy program-
say pharmaceuticals are a vital compo-
new medicines, against a compound li-
ming, while the simple structure reduces
nent of our healthcare system.
brary of millions of compounds.
the number of parts, improving reliability.
6 dpaonthenet.net
Supplement: Medical & pharmaceutical Tasks for Cartesian robots include pick-
In the future, the digital sophistication of
These motors can be combined with
and-place roles, but can also include print-
automated robots may be more widely
the FAULHABER series IEF3-4096 en-
ing, which comes into play in the contract
used to evaluate patient DNA and mo-
coder, which adds just 6.2mm to the
manufacturing of pharmaceuticals.
lecular data to produce personalised
motor length, to deliver precise speed
medicines that take into account the pa-
control from 200-10,000 revolutions per
Robots’ precision and repeatability also
tient’s genetic druggability – the ability of
minute in the compact spaces of phar-
make them beneficial in pharmaceutical re-
a portion of a genome to be targeted by
maceutical robots.
search. Robots can complete the more re-
a drug – and predict the chemical activity
petitive tasks of drug development that don’t
of the drug.
With the majority of the UK population
require creative thought, leaving researchers
regularly using prescription medica-
Masterful motors
tions, we must keep pharmaceutical
For pharmaceutical robots to perform
production and development up to
For example, robots have been developed
with increased speed and accuracy, de-
speed. Automated pharmaceutical ro-
that can rapidly transfer sample tubes
sign engineers must choose high-quality
bots can perform tasks with extreme
into a nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)
motors. Motors power the movements of
consistency, accuracy and speed, and
spectrometer, which is used to detect the
the robots, from picking up samples to
their digital capabilities allow increased
molecular structure of a sample. This can
screwing on lids.
process flexibility and a clear record,
to focus on more worthwhile tasks.
be used to screen potential drugs to see
which helps to bring patients relief
if they can bind to the druggable target in
EMS is the sole UK supplier of FAUL-
the body.
HABER motors, which provide a combination of high power and precision. In
Digital perks
particular, the FAULHABER BXT flat outer
Robots can also collect data to optimise
rotor motor range features compact mo-
manufacturing production. For example,
tors with high torque.
quickly and safely. https://www.ems-limited.co.uk/
the data can be used to identify bottleneck areas where products arrive too quickly for
About the author: Dave Walsha is Commercial Development Officer for Electro Mechanical Systems (EMS). After graduating from university with a bachelor’s degree in engineering, Dave joined EMS as a sales engineer. His career has since progressed, being promoted to his current position of Commerical Development Officer in April 2015. Currently, Dave uses his wealth of experience with precision mechatronics to specify and deliver drive systems for the most demanding customer applications.
the workflow to handle, causing congestion and lowered efficiency. The data collected by robots can also be used to ensure the safety of medications. The digital system can continuously monitor and adjust conditions, such as temperature and pH, to remain within safe boundaries. This is important, as a change in conditions can cause a medicine to lose its potency, or even become harmful. With all equipment digitalised and connected, facility managers can easily change the commands in the control system to manufacture a different product or alter production volumes to accommodate varying demand.
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Supplement: Medical & pharmaceutical
Simplifying surgical power tool design with autoclavable brushless DC motors E
lectric motors have brought many advantages to powered hand tools. However, there are various approaches for design engineers to consider when selecting a motor for surgical instruments. Jamie Gewirtz, R&D Manager for surgical motors at Portescap, looks at some of the design challenges and discusses considerations for the selection of the most appropriate electric motor.
Portescap has a full product line selection with motor and planetary gearhead diameters ranging from 12.7mm to 38.1mm
With manufacturers of powered surgical
humidity, temperature and pressure for
of after surgery. These can use an inex-
tools having now switched, almost uni-
several minutes in order to render the
pensive DC motor and plastic compo-
versally, from pneumatic to electric op-
instrument sterile. Most autoclaves also
nents. However, any initial cost advan-
eration, selecting the most appropriate
have additional vacuum cycles to facili-
tage can soon be negated, particularly
electric motor has become a key design
tate steam penetration and kill bacteria,
for surgeries that are performed multiple
consideration. The likes of arthroscopic
viruses, fungi, and spores that can hide
times a day. Further, hospitals are be-
shavers, sagittal saws, oscillating saws,
inside the tool.
coming more proactive with green initi-
orthopaedic drills, medium- and high-
atives, and are looking, in particular, to
speed drills, wire drivers and surgical
This repeated exposure to autoclave
staplers all make stringent requirements
conditions is what gives manufacturers
on the motor, but beyond that, there is
of powered surgical instruments the
Another approach is to use standard DC
also a need to consider sterilisation re-
most problems when it comes to electri-
motors attached to a non-autoclavable
quirements.
fication of the tools. So, what options are
electronics and battery package. This
available to the designers of such tools?
requires surgical staff to remove the
The most common sterilisation method
reduce levels of hazardous waste.
motor/battery pack prior to tool sterili-
used in hospitals is autoclaving, also
With the sterilisation process so de-
sation. The concern here, though, is that
called steam sterilisation. Here, surgical
manding, one approach is to design sin-
these non-sterile components must be
hand tools are exposed to high levels of
gle-use tools that are simply disposed
placed back into a sterile surgical tool
8 dpaonthenet.net
Supplement: Medical & pharmaceutical and special processes have to be fol-
Autoclavable motors
diameters ranging for from 12.7mm to
lowed by medical staff, opening up the
Given these issues, the ideal solution
38.1mm.
potential for user error. A second issue
would be to use a DC motor that can
is that surgical staff may forget to re-
survive the autoclave sterilisation pro-
More and more surgical tool manufac-
move the non-autoclavable compo-
cess by design, eliminating the need
turers are coming to see the benefits of
nents prior to sterilisation; submitting
to remove it from the tool, or for redun-
autoclavable brushless motor technol-
this to autoclave processes will inevita-
dant sealing systems. This would keep
ogy. Combining superior performance
bly result in premature electrical failure.
the sterilisation process as simple as
and best-in-class power density with
possible, while also reducing the size
the inherent capability to survive auto-
of the tool.
clave sterilisation processes, these mo-
Another approach is to use a regular DC motor permanently attached to the
tors help to guarantee safety in surgical
tool and try to seal it from the outside
Portescap supplies autoclavable mo-
processes while ultimately reducing
environment. However, in most cases,
tors for powered surgical hand tools.
total cost of ownership.
this results in very bulky designs due
Tests have demonstrated that these
to the sealing redundancy needed to
motors are able to survive more than
For more information, visit
achieve satisfactory performance.
1,000 sterilisation cycles, which often
www.portescap.com.
far exceed the expected life of the surWe can see, then, that motor selection
gical hand tool itself.
has a direct impact on the effectiveness of sterilisation, as well as on tool relia-
In addition, Portescap offers complete
bility and servicing cost. While it might
motor customisation that is tailored
be tempting to select an inexpensive
around the needs of surgical hand tool
non-autoclavable motor, it may result
manufacturers. There are options for
in a more expensive end product when
custom shaft cannulation, cross holes,
additional costs are taken into consid-
gear ratios, windings, pin connections
eration. The motor selection will also
and temperature optimisation. Portes-
have a direct impact on the tool’s reli-
cap has a full product line selection
ability and servicing cost.
with motor and planetary gearhead
Arthroscopic shavers have stringent requirements on the motor that is used, but beyond that, there is also the need to consider sterilisation requirements
M8 12 contacts
Cable & panel mount connectors
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Supplement: Medical & pharmaceutical
3D-printed anatomical models
increase patient care and reduce operation costs S
pinal surgery is highly complex. Therefore, surgeons often practise these operations on models. In a complicated case of a severely deformed spine, Newcastle Hospital used a 3D-printed anatomical model to simulate the operation, improving the patient experience and saving £8000 in costs associated with the surgery.
Planning procedures in detail to avoid complications To ensure optimal preparation, surgeons use custom-built anatomical models, allowing them to practise the exact procedure beforehand. These anatomical models are often used in patient communication and consultation to show and explain to patients what their med-
Back pain is a very common problem
patient’s individual pathology. They of-
ical conditions are and what their surgi-
in the UK. Many people suffer from
ten require a unique approach, custom
cal procedures will involve. With the help
spinal issues at some point in their
to each patient’s needs. Spinal surgery,
of a lifelike model, physicians are able to
lives. Causes range from fractures and
in particular, is often highly complex. As
address any potential risks before oper-
curvature of the spine to – in the worst
a result, the global demand for medical
ating. This is particularly important when
cases – degenerative diseases or spi-
applications which allow for customised
surgery is associated with high risks,
nal tumours. Diagnosis and treatment
treatments is growing.
such as paralysis. Another advantage
of such injuries strongly depend on the
10 dpaonthenet.net
of anatomical models is the massive re-
Supplement: Medical & pharmaceutical duction of the operation time and costs,
shortening osteotomy, taking into ac-
team during the surgery. Detailed and
as doctors can conduct a precise simu-
count any individual risks. If successful,
accurate patient-specific models pro-
lation prior to the surgery.
this complex procedure would allow the
vide both better safety for the patient
spinal cord tension to be reduced with-
and additional available operating time.
However, using conventional methods
out direct nerve damage. Furthermore,
to produce such precise, lifelike and pa-
the team gained insights into which
tient-specific anatomical models is usu-
stems could be used when inserting the
Creating capacities and using new opportunities
ally very time-consuming. It often takes
screws and how best to proceed during
To meet the growing demand for pa-
several weeks to outsource the produc-
the operation. In addition, the surgery
tient-specific 3D-printing models, New-
tion of a model. That is a very long time
could be planned much more precise-
castle Hospital, Axial3D and Formlabs
for patients, who are often suffering from
ly, and patient-specific differences and
are currently working on an on-site
severe pain. In addition, these models
peculiarities could be better taken into
3D-printing facility. The goal is to provide
often depict the entire MRT- or CT-Scan,
account.
hospital staff with 24/7 access to the
and not just the area required for treat-
technology to facilitate internal consul-
ment. This, in turn, leads to additional
The 3D-printed model also helped the
tation and consent meetings, and com-
use of material, higher costs and later
clinic team to inform the patient and
plex, highly customised procedures.
requires more time for analysis.
his family about the procedure more comprehensively prior to the operation.
3D printing has become an important
From scan to finished model in a few hours
Possible risks could be better explained,
part of surgical planning for complex
and expectations could be kept more
spinal procedures. The benefits of pa-
Thanks to modern 3D-printing technol-
realistic. Through a complete surgical
tient-specific anatomy models will con-
ogy, it is now possible to build these
simulation, the team was able to reduce
tinue to play a major role in medical
customised anatomical models within
the operating time for the complicated
technology and in the pre-planning of
a few hours and at a much lower cost.
surgical procedure by more than two
complex procedures. They also offer
As a result, more patients can enjoy
hours. In this way, the team was able to
great potential for other treatment areas,
the benefits of customised treatment
save approximately £8,000 in costs as-
such as traumatology.
approaches, reduced operating times,
sociated with the surgery. The approach
waiting times and risks for much-need-
helped to limit blood loss and facilitated
ed, complex procedures.
communication between the surgical
https://formlabs.com/uk/
About the author: Stefan Holländer is Managing Director EMEA at Formlabs. He has more than 20 years of management experience, most recently as Senior Vice President of Partner Management at T-Systems International. There, he worked on building a strategic partner ecosystem for Deutsche Telekom’s digital business. With positions at Hewlett-Packard, SONY, Microsoft and T-Systems, Holländer has a knack for general and product management, marketing, sales and leadership. He studied technical business administration at The University of Stuttgart.
One example of the exact use and possibilities of such models is Newcastle Hospital, which specialises in spinal treatment. The hospital team treated a patient who suffered from a neural tube malformation in the form of a spina bifida with a highly curved deformation. The deformity was characterised by excessive outward curvature of the spine, resulting in an abnormal curvature of the upper back. Due to the increasing deformity and problems with sitting and sleeping, the patient suffered severe pain every day. Working with the 3D-printing company Formlabs, the imaging experts at Axial3D were able to create, print and deliver a true-to-scale model of the patient’s spine based on his CT and MRI data – in just 48 hours. Unlike conventionally produced models, the model only depicted the relevant part of the scan.
Acting quickly and precisely when it matters The 3D-printed model allowed the team quickly to assess the possibility of a
dpaonthenet.net 11
Supplement: Medical & pharmaceutical
Quick-disconnect connector for a cochlear implant – a custom design with life-enhancing benefits A
cochlear implant, often referred to as a bionic ear, is a surgically implanted device that enables a severely deaf person to hear again. The external transmitter, where a connector is required, transmits RF signals through to the implant via a magnetic connection to reduce the possibility of patient infection. The transmitter processes the RF signals from the microphones through a speech processor and then into the internal implant which connects to the cochlear – allowing the person to “hear” the sound. After suffering failures of standard connectors, a major manufacturer of cochlear implant technology approached In-
Enclosures from the smallest to the largest. ENCLOSURES
POWER DISTRIBUTION
CLIMATE CONTROL
Supplement: Medical & pharmaceutical telliconnect with a request to develop a
push/pull connection (rather than a
• The operating frequency range of
quick-disconnect connector that would
coupling nut) – were required to allow
DC to 6GHz enables all transmitted
be suitable for use in such a medical sys-
ease of use and performance under se-
signals to be fully processed without
tem application.
vere environmental conditions.
any subsequent signal degradation. • An insulation resistance of 5Mohm
The proposed connector was to be in
The design was based around a modi-
allows for any moisture or humidity
the external transmitting/processing
fied MCX connector, with a waterproof
to be present without compromising
part of the device and needed to be
rating of IP68 in the unmated condition.
the safety or performance of the de-
extremely rugged and reliable.
This is the equivalent of 10m immersion
vice.
in water, tested for a minimum period
• The voltage rating 335V RMS gives a
Latest estimates of the number of
of four hours. In fact, the connector has
large engineering safety factor within
people fitted with implants are close
been tested to far beyond this level –
to 200,000, with the reliability of all
60m without leaking – thus ensuring a
components expected to be more than
safety factor of six.
99.5 percent. High reliability, fast turn-
the connector design. • VSWR 1.3 allows for the signals to be processed without any degradation or deterioration and produces
around, custom designs, and excep-
The application required several thou-
tional customer service were among
sand disconnects during the product
the reasons that led the customer to
lifecycle. This meant a development
To allow for the external components
approach Intelliconnect to create this
programme needed to be undertak-
to be regularly serviced, the connector
new connector.
en to ensure the latching mechanism,
needed to be capable of up to 3000
spring forces, and engagement and
mating cycles. This was achieved by
The custom-designed connector had
separation forces were consistent and
fine-tuning the connector forces to an
to be waterproof, as the connectors
qualified for the specified number of
engagement force of 2.5lbs maximum
were used close to the skin. It had to be
mating and unmating cycles. This was
and 1.5lbs minimum, and a disengage-
used in normal domestic environments,
finally tested to 3000 cycles, and the
ment force of 3.0lbs maximum and
such as swimming pools, showers and
performance of the connector was ver-
2.0lbs minimum.
baths, as well as high-humidity en-
ified to be within the specified limit after
vironments, such as saunas, steam
the full lifecycle testing.
rooms, etc. The design had to be small
the best possible signal clarity.
About the author: Roy Phillips, Managing Director of Intelliconnect (Europe) has been involved in the RF interconnect industry for over 35 years with various companies, including Greenpar, Radiall and Midwest Microwave. He founded Intelliconnect (Europe) Ltd in 2003 and Intelliconnect USA Llc in 2005.
The successful design is now in volume production, improving the quality of life
enough to fit into the transmitter equip-
Other requirements that were subject-
for both adults and children. In the case
ment, but still rugged enough to allow
ed to full qualification test programmes
of children, in particular, it allows for
for a push/pull connection style to be
included:
normal schooling and participation in
incorporated.
• A very wide-ranging temperature en-
the hearing world – all thanks to a min-
velope, defined as being from -65°C The brief required a new design to be
to +165°C, to ensure full operation
initiated, as two important features
with a significant safety margin (to
– namely, waterproof integrity and a
increase reliability).
IT INFRASTRUCTURE
iature waterproof RF connector! https://intelliconnect.co.uk/
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Supplement: Medical & pharmaceutical
The LOF Series of open frame, AC-DC power supplies from Mornsun is available from Relec Electronics
Medical power supplies: Balancing thermal design with safety regulations T
he LOF series of AC-DC power supplies from Mornsun is designed to meet multiple regulatory standards, increase system reliability through sound thermal design – with short lead times and cost-sensitive pricing.
packages and are designed for reliable operation. In addition to meeting the latest regulatory standards, the thermal design ensures safe, reliable operation in safety-critical applications.
For medium- and high-power AC-DC
competitive projects, reliable delivery
The LOF120, LOF225 and LOF350
power design, engineers have to con-
and short lead times are also high on
models offer up to 95 percent efficien-
sider several factors, including the ther-
the list of considerations that need to
cy – in compact form factors (from as
mal design, safety regulations, space
be evaluated at the start of the design.
little as 101 x 50.0 x 25mm or 4.0” x
envelope and system reliability. In addi-
2.0” x 1.0”) – yet deliver output power
tion, the nature of many design projects
There are three open-frame AC-DC
up to 1.7W/cm3. Operating temperature
means that cost also needs to be con-
converters in the LOF Series. The very
range is -40°C to +85°C, making them
sidered, together with size, as space is
high power density 120 to 350W AC-DC
suitable for indoor and outdoor use.
frequently limited in today’s designs. In
power supplies are in industry-standard
14 dpaonthenet.net
Supplement: Medical & pharmaceutical Multiple regulations The LOF Series AC-DC converters from Mornsun are approved to EN60601 for medical equipment. The primary and secondary sides of the power supplies meet the reinforced insulation with 2xMOPP
• EN61000-4-3 – Radiated susceptibility to 10V/m • EN61000-4-4 – Electrical Fast Transients to ±4kV • EN61000-4-5 – Surge to ±2kV (L-L) ±4kV (L-E)
(Means of Patient Protection) and an iso-
• EN61000-4-6 – Conducted
lation voltage is up to 4000VAC. The leak-
susceptibility to 10V rms
age current is as little as 0.1mA, making
• EN61000-4-11 – Dips and
the LOF Series suitable for patient con-
interruptions 0 percent, 70 percent.
tact and patient assistance equipment.
Thermal design The selection of components and use of topologies result in power supplies that demonstrate good ripple and dynamic performance. Minimising local temperature hotspots improves system reliability to increase the lifetime of the AC-DC About the author:
converters. The LOF Series can be used in Class I (with protective earth (PE) connection) or
Each AC-DC converter series has out-
Class II (no PE), which is suitable for in-
In addition, the open-frame power supplies
puts ranging from 12V to 48V, together
dustrial, office and home environments.
are approved to EN62368 for audio, video,
with a universal AC input of 85-275Vac
information and communication technol-
with power factor correction (PFC). Other
This combination of design elements
ogy equipment, GB4943 for information
features contribute to reliable operation,
ensures that the LOF Series of pow-
technology equipment, EN61558 for safe-
for example, a very low earth leakage of
er supplies has medical and industrial
ty isolating transformers, and EN60335, for
less than 0.1mA, a high surge withstand
compliance in a single product. Safety
household electrical appliances.
threshold of 300Vac for five seconds, and
features include short circuit protection,
no-load power consumption of less than
over current, over voltage and over tem-
0.5W.
perature protection.
Both convection and forced air-cooled
In addition to competitive prices, the
ratings are available, with options to fit
LOF Series has lead times of six weeks
cases on all units.
as standard.
All models in the series carry a three-year
http://www.relec.co.uk
Furthermore, the LOF Series converters
John Stone is Sales Director at Relec Electronics, a company which specialises in power conversion and displays. John has worked at Relec since 2003 and holds a BSc in Electronics and Communications Engineering from the University of Birmingham.
meet the most stringent of EMC standards including: • EN55032 – Class B – Conducted Emissions and Radiated Emissions • EN61000-3-2 – Class D (PFC) • EN61000-4-2 – ESD Contact ±8kV/ Air ±15kV
manufacturer’s warranty.
DIRECT IN-HOUSE SERVICE Flame Hardeners’ ability to respond quickly and efficiently to specialist enquiries is the result of our in-house policy • 100% of our bespoke tooling manufacture for both flame and induction hardening is carried out in-house by our own highly skilled tool-making team, all of whom have over 20 years’ experience. As a result, the average time for tooling development is less than two days. • Personal service – you will always speak directly to a member of our own staff; we do not use automated call systems
Find out more at
WWW.FLAMEHARDENERS.CO.UK mail@flamehardeners.co.uk
FLAME HARDENERS LIMITED Incorporating Induction Hardeners Limited Shorter Works, Bailey Lane, Sheffield S1 3BL
tel: 0114 276 8167
fax: 0114 273 8657
Feature: CNC upgrade programme
CNC upgrade programme provides US cutting tool manufacturer with major productivity advantage U S cutting tool manufacturer, McQuade Industries, Inc., has gained a highly cost-effective productivity advantage by implementing a CNC upgrade programme for a line of 5-axis insert grinders. The upgraded machines are much easier to set up and operate, enabling the company to shave off more than ten minutes per part from the production time of complex geometry cutting tools.
with fast-turnaround tool regrinding and
Although the insert grinders still represent
repair services, backed by specialist
a valuable asset, McQuade had devel-
knowledge in special carbide and preci-
oped a large number of part programmes
sion form inserts.
over the years, which ideally would need to run on any replacement machines
The machines that are being upgraded
without requiring modification. Therefore,
are RS12 insert grinders, originally manu-
the company decided to preserve its in-
factured by Ewag AG in Switzerland. Mc-
vestment by implementing a programme
Quade installed a number of these preci-
to upgrade the machines’ CNC systems.
sion grinders back in 1988, and over the
McQuade subsequently engaged the
years, they have provided stalwart perfor-
services of Advanced Machine Technolo-
mance. However, as McQuade’s Produc-
gies, LLC., a specialist CNC retrofit com-
tion Manager, Donald Ostgen, explains,
pany based in Owosso, Michigan.
“After 30-plus years, even the best maBased in Clinton Township, Michigan,
chines can begin to show signs of their
The original RS12 insert grinders were fit-
McQuade Industries produces a diverse
age! Although still in good mechanical
ted with NUM 760 CNC systems, NUM
range of cutting tools, including boring
order, the grinders’ control systems were
Guttinger NGS 610 servo drives and
bars, milling cutters, generating heads,
beginning to lack the flexibility we needed
NUM/SEM brushed servomotors. Having
draw-bar style tooling and cartridges,
for some of today’s more complex tool
partnered with NUM on numerous auto-
as well as complete turnkey tooling
geometries, leading to lengthy set-up and
mation upgrade projects over the past 22
packages. It also provides customers
machining times.”
years, Advanced Machine Technologies
16 dpaonthenet.net
Feature: CNC upgrade programme has considerable experience in replacing legacy systems such as these. In this instance, the company recommended upgrading to NUM’s latest-generation Flexium+ 68 CNC system, and replacing the drives and motors on
MAGNET TECHNOLOGY
all five axes with NUMdrive X digital servo drives and new NUM brushless servomotors. By transitioning to NUM’s Flexium+ CNC platform, McQuade would secure full grind-cycle flexibility, while continuing to use a familiar HMI (human-machine interface) and machine setup operations. This upgrade path also would provide full backwards compatibility with part programmes made by the company over the last thirty years. Furthermore, the embedded PC in Flexium+ represented a flexible IIoT platform that is Industry 4.0 ready, offering McQuade powerful connectivity advantages for future productivity enhancements and enabling NUM or AMT to provide remote support services if required. McQuade sanctioned the work, requesting that Advanced Machine Technologies initially upgraded a single machine so that its performance could be evaluated before progressing further. As part of the upgrade, in addition to the CNC system, drives and motors, the insert grinder was fitted with a new NUM FS-12 touch-sensitive operator’s panel, an MP08 machine panel, and an HBA series portable hand-wheel. The variable-frequency drive for the existing grinding spindle motor was also replaced, using a smaller footprint NUM DriveX servo drive to fulfil the role. The advantage of this approach is that all command, feedback and status information is now being exchanged over a fast digital bus, which simplifies wiring and improves diagnostic capabilities. The upgrade has proved a resounding success. The move to all-digital drives and motors has significantly increased the overall speed and performance of the machine, resulting in faster grind feed rates and improved surface finishing. Donald Ostgen is extremely pleased with the level of service provided by Advanced Machine Technologies, and with the insert grinder’s rejuvenated capabilities. “If anyone doubts the benefits of a CNC upgrade, they should take a look at our installation. The quality of workmanship is superb, the grinder is now much easier to programme and the handheld
BRAKES, CLUTCHES, COMBIBOX
1 Nm to 3000 Nm Low Energy Magnet Systems Electrical switchable for high dynamic Operations FEA optimized design UL/CSA certification* TÜV safety certificated Safety *
pendant really helps [to] simplify operation. We are able to run parts on this machine that we could previously only run on our wire EDM (electrical discharge machining) machines, and its increased flexibility means that we are
*where applicable and on request
now saving over 10 minutes per part, compared to the pre-retrofit model.” The first upgraded RS12 insert grinder is now in full operation on McQuade’s production line, and the company has already commenced upgrading the next machine on the line. https://num.com/
Automation with Drive
www.keb.co.uk
KEB (UK) Ltd. 5 Morris Close Park Farm Industrial Estate Wellingborough NN8 6XF Tel: 01933 402220 E-Mail: info@keb.co.uk
dpaonthenet.net 17
Feature: Commander drives
Commander improves customer experience at London bowling alley B
owlers at a unique London venue can now rack up strikes in peace – thanks to Commander drives from Control Techniques, part of the Nidec group.
ers,” said Srdan Stojilikovic, Technical
also stops noisy vibrations going through
Manager for All-Star Lanes.
the ducting.
The solution came in the form of Con-
Mr Stojilikovic added: “The fan motor
trol Techniques’ Commander drives,
works at a lower rpm than the old drive
which provided an instant boost in per-
and has made a great difference in our
formance. The drives mount to the wall
restaurant area. With the new drive, the
All Star Lanes, in Bloomsbury, had been
using a NEMA bracket, which protects
wall has stopped shaking and the venue
suffering from significant vibrations from
all the cables going in and provides add-
is not noisy any more.”
its ventilation systems, which was a ma-
ed safety for the general public. The new
jor disturbance to diners and bowlers at
Commander drive is also half the size of
The installation was carried out by APS
the underground alley. Due to its loca-
the existing one, creating extra space at
Engineering, recognised as one of Control
tion, the bowling alley needs a constant
the installation.
Techniques’ top system integrators. Per
flow of fresh air and relies on its fan sys-
Lutteman, from APS Engineering, said:
tem to bring in clean air from above, and
Previously, the system ran continuous-
“From our point of view, this was a simple
to extract fumes from the kitchen.
ly at 30 amps. The new system, led by
project but one that has made a big im-
Commander, runs at a much lower rate
pact. Setting the Commander drive up is
“Behind the seating area in our restau-
of 10-15 amps, generating significant
very easy, including the programming. It
rant, we have a wall made of Perspex
savings of 50 percent and resulting in a
was up and running the way we wanted
panels, which divides our bowling lanes
much better flow of air. The previous sys-
within half an hour, and we know the sup-
from the restaurant area. With our old
tem also had too much vacuum, which
port – if we ever need it – will be first class.”
ventilation system, the panels would
caused buckling and made it vibrate like
shake constantly from the fan motor,
a drum. By tuning the drive to a lower lev-
https://acim.nidec.com/drives/
making an off-putting noise for our din-
el, not only does it use less power, but it
control-techniques
18 dpaonthenet.net
W
Smart sensing in 3D
Built-in apps make 3D sensor easy to use
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ifm’s amazing smart time-of-flight 3D sensor has built-in apps for; • Completeness in packaging or palletising • Checking volumes in materials handling • Levels of bulk material Making it so easy to set up, anyone can do it. You’ll be amazed!
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Feature: Digital twins
The role of drives and condition monitoring in digital twins W
hat will the digital twin look like in the automation of the future and what role will drive technologies play? Dominik Follmann, head of the ‘Technical Infrastructure for Digital Twins’ (TeDZ) project at KEB Automation, provides his views.
20 dpaonthenet.net
Today, many companies are talking
data and improved monitoring of sys-
about the ‘digital twin’, but the definition
tems. This prevents problems before
is still very inconsistent. As a result, dig-
they occur, minimises downtime, devel-
ital twins from different manufacturers
ops new opportunities and even helps
often do not have the necessary inter-
to plan for the future using simulation
operability to use them together.
models.
In its simplest form, a digital twin is a
In the TeDZ project, KEB is search-
virtual model of a process, product or
ing for possible savings potential and
service. The pairing of the physical and
how these can be achieved and made
digital worlds enables better analysis of
available. KEB’s aim is to provide its
Feature: Digital twins customers, and their customers, with
commissioning’ offers significant sav-
throughout the entire product lifecycle,
easy access to the digital twin which
ings potential, such as time and cost
from planning, engineering and com-
will generate significant added value for
savings during real commissioning, as
missioning, to servicing and replace-
everyone.
well as quality improvements and pro-
ment.
cess reliability through error simulations. In the pilot project “Digital Energet-
KEB is gaining lots of experience in dealing with the technologies men-
of digital twins. In particular, the focus
The role of predictive maintenance and condition monitoring
is on the energy-related aspects; for ex-
KEB is also concerned with communi-
partners to develop the technologies
ample, an ideal energy-efficient design
cations and appropriate definition of the
themselves and to test these in real-
and the optimisation of energy con-
semantics for dynamic data, i.e. data
istic scenarios in order to develop the
sumption.
that can be acquired from the products
results into market-ready solutions. The
at runtime. Due to their sensors and
direct exchange and cooperation with
With the help of simulation models, KEB
built-in intelligence, drive controllers
other companies, as well as university
also intends to offer its customers the
can provide lots of useful information
and research institutions, make it possi-
possibility of simulating the behaviour of
here, for example, for condition moni-
ble to “think outside the box” and also
a machine or plant. This could, for ex-
toring and predictive maintenance pur-
ensure that KEB has a comprehensive
ample, involve simulating the behaviour
poses. The aim is to provide product
view during technical implementation.
of a drive axis as realistically as possible
information, such as engineering data
This provides KEB with the opportunity
during the planning phase. In this way,
or simulation models. This information
to reflect the results of its work through
the energy consumption of a drive axis
can also be enhanced with additional
various standardisation committees, so
at certain operating points can be pre-
data recorded during operation – as a
that the users of its products and solu-
cisely predetermined. The models also
digital representation of KEB products.
tions are guaranteed the broadest pos-
enable customers to develop and test
Standardised access to all this informa-
sible interoperability later on.
large parts of the machine control sys-
tion via an ‘administration shell’ simpli-
tem, even before actual commissioning
fies the integration of the components
For more information, please visit
has occurred. This so-called ‘virtual
for customers. This brings advantages
www.keb.co.uk
ic Twin” (DeZ), a sub-project of TeDZ, KEB is researching the different facets
tioned. Working together on the project enables the KEB team and its project
About the author: Dominik Follmann has been working for KEB since 2004, starting as a student. After his diploma thesis in electrical engineering and master studies in information technology, he worked for several years in the development of software tools with graphical user interfaces for commissioning, diagnostics and parameterisation of KEB products. In 2017, he became the head of the software and embedded firmware development team in KEB’s electronic R&D department. Besides this, he is the KEB project manager for its OWL project, “TeDZ” (technical infrastructure for digital twins).
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Feature: Outdoor enclosures
Keep electronic projects secure & weatherproof with the right enclosures
F
or many designers of DIY or prototype projects, once the electronics are laid out, finding a suitable enclosure is often left to the last minute. This may be reasonable if it’s going to be used indoors on a desk or placed on a wall, temporarily. But if the project is intended for use outdoors over long periods, it will quickly succumb to the elements or be damaged, either intentionally or unintentionally, by malicious tampering or idle curiosity.
Figure 1: The effects of moisture and humidity on electronic components, boards, and interconnects can be highly detrimental over time. (Image source: Shutterstock)
that meet both physical and aesthetic
on vibration isolators, and electrical and
requirements.
RF noise can be mitigated using filters, chokes, and appropriate grounding tech-
Why electronics enclosures need to provide environmental protection
niques.
Electronic systems used outdoors are
ticularly pernicious. Once moisture has
susceptible to deterioration due to heat,
penetrated a system, it can increase hu-
It’s difficult to craft an appropriate en-
cold, humidity, direct sunlight – particu-
midity and lead to condensation. This can
closure using available materials, and
larly ultraviolet (UV) rays – vibration, and
be followed by the corrosion and ultimate
while off-the-shelf enclosures might
physical tampering. They are also subject-
deterioration over time of semiconduc-
meet ruggedness requirements, they
ed to many sources of electrical and elec-
tor passivation layers, solder joints, and
may be the wrong size, overly vulner-
tromagnetic noise. Designers can account
physical connections. When combined
able to tampering, and lack aesthetics.
for temperature extremes through proper
with contaminants, such as dust and de-
The latter two can be problematic if the
circuit design, component derating, ther-
bris, that may have entered the enclosure
enclosure is going to be on the outside
mal management techniques such as
before it is closed, the detrimental effects
of a home or commercial building.
heatsinks and fans, and minimising over-
are multiplied. The various ways in which
all power consumption. Vibration can be
moisture affects components include
accounted for by mounting pc boards
electrochemical, galvanic, anodic, and
For small electronic project housings or
However, moisture and humidity are par-
enclosures that will be placed outside, it’s best to opt for a line of officially IP68 qualified polycarbonate enclosures that can seal the electronics effectively against the elements. This article will discuss the effects of rain, temperature extremes, and sunlight on electronics systems and their enclosures. It will then describe what IP-68 protection implies before introducing enclosures from Hammond Manufacturing with associated gaskets
Figure 2: The IP codes assign a digit to indicate a system’s degree of protection against dirt (left) and moisture (right). (Image source: focusondrives.com)
dpaonthenet.net 23
Feature: Outdoor enclosures What is IP-68? Also called ingress protection, the IP codes derive from EN 60529 and assign two digits that indicate the degree of protection provided with respect to dust and moisture (Figure 2). The assignments classify the degree of protection provided against the intrusion of solid objects, such as fingers and hands, as well as dust and water. The goal is to provide clarity around otherwise vague and subjective terms such as “waterproof”. The first digit after IP pertains to solids, the second digit pertains to liquids. So, in Figure 3: The 1557 Series of enclosures accommodate both IP-68 requirements and design aesthetics, while providing a variety of mounting options. (Image source: Hammond Manufacturing)
the case of IP-68, a system is compliant if it’s totally protected against dust (6) and long periods under water jets or immersion under pressure (8).
cathodic. All pose a hazard to the reliabili-
conditions and environmental tests for
ty of electronics, some subtle, some more
telecommunications equipment; Part 1-4:
obvious (Figure 1).
Classification of environmental condi-
How to meet IP-68 requirements
tions; Stationary use at non-weather-pro-
While it’s possible to design an IP-68 en-
tected locations”.
closure from scratch, there’s no need to
Placing epoxy or gels over critical components can help to mitigate the effects
re-invent the wheel when companies like
of moisture ingress. For mass-produced
This is a useful testing guide for hobbyists,
Hammond Manufacturing have already
systems, conformal coatings of 20 to 50
and essential for professionals. It classi-
done the groundwork. Its 1557 Series of
microns – or even up to 100 microns in
fies the various conditions a device might
enclosures for harsh environments are de-
extreme cases – can cover the entire pc
face into seismic, earthquake, shock, so-
signed with UV-stabilised polycarbonate
board. However, some components, such
lar radiation and temperature. It further
material to meet IP-68 requirements, while
as DIP switches, variable resistors, and
sub-divides environmental classes into
also attending to aesthetics, providing a
battery holders can’t receive such coat-
water, precipitation, mould growth, animal
“modern” look with “soft” curves in two
ings. Also, conformal coatings may not
attacks (i.e., termites), and air salinity. It
colours – black and light grey (Figure 3).
quite cover the edges (edge crawling),
also has some good definitions that are
exposing traces and connections to cor-
directly relevant here and underscore the
The 1557 Series carries a flammability
rosion.
importance of humidity:
rating of UL94-5VA and achieves protec-
• Absolute humidity: Mass of water va-
tion against dust, oil and water ingress
The full effect of moisture depends upon
pour in grams which is associated with
by using a two-piece tongue-and-groove
heat and relative humidity. Full testing
one cubic meter of dry air in an air/wa-
construction with a high-temperature, UL
guidelines for moisture and humidity for
ter vapour mixture.
listed silicone gasket, model 1557BGAS-
outdoor equipment is covered by ETSI EN
• Non-weather-protected location: Loca-
300 019-1-4 V2.2.1 (2014-04) “Environ-
tion at which the equipment is not pro-
mental Engineering (EE); Environmental
tected from direct weather influences.
The lid is then secured with M4 stainless
• Relative humidity: Ratio of the partial
steel machine screws, model SC576-50
pressure of the water vapour in moist
(Figure 5). These are threaded into corro-
air at a given temperature, to the partial
sion-resistant bushings to allow for repet-
pressure of the water vapour in saturat-
itive assembly and disassembly, such as
ed air at the same temperature.
during the prototyping stage of a design.
KET (Figure 4).
• Stationary use: Use of the equipment mounted firmly on the structure, or on
The 1557 Series comes in a wide range
mounting devices, or it is permanently
of sizes to meet a variety of application
placed at a certain site.
needs and comes with a range of mounting options – including pc board – for
Figure 4: The 1557BGASKET is made of UL listed silicone and helps the 1557 enclosure achieve IP-68 compliance. (Image source: Hammond Manufacturing)
24 dpaonthenet.net
For designers, however, prevention is al-
placement flexibility. The sizes are based
ways better than a cure. This is where the
on four basic plan sizes, each in two
International Protection (IP) rating IP-68
heights. The sizes are:
comes into play.
• 80 x 80mm floor plan, in heights of 45mm or 60mm
Feature: Outdoor enclosures • 120 x 120mm, 160 x 160mm, and 200 x 200 mm floor plans, in heights of 45mm or 70mm The mounting options are as shown (Figure 3, again): • Heavy-duty, wall flange mount (mounting feet outward) • Flush wall mount (mounting feet as keyhole slots) • Desktop/tabletop (rubber feet included) Each option has a clear emphasis. The heavy-duty wall-mount model has a set of two or four wall-mounting tabs which are securely screwed to the back of the enclosure. The tabs protrude out from the edge of the enclosure, allowing the user to mount it securely to the wall using their own hardware. This is ideal for applications where security is
Figure 5: The model SC576-50 M4 machine screws thread securely into corrosionresistant bushings to allow for repetitive assembly and disassembly. (Image source: Hammond Manufacturing)
critical and the installation is permanent. The flush-mount model has the same wall-mounting tabs, but they are flipped around and installed into cavities on the back of the enclosure. In this configuration, the tabs act as keyhole slots, allowing for a more elegant, flush-mount appearance. This configuration is also ideal for applications where the enclosure will be temporarily affixed to the wall. About the author: Each enclosure includes four adhesive rubber feet for use in desktop/tabletop mode. In this mode, the wall-mount tabs are no longer used, and rubber feet are placed in each corner. There is a recessed area in each corner sized for the feet to ensure proper placement, maintain a lower profile, and to keep the feet securely in place. More rubber feet, model 1421T6CL, can be ordered if necessary. Accessories that come with the enclosures include liquid-tight cord grips/cable glands and pole-mount kits.
Conclusion Much development work is focused on the design of the electronics, to the extent that designers can underestimate how important it can be to choose the right enclosure for outdoor applications. Without suitable protection, humidity, temperature extremes, dust, oil and other contaminants can combine to compromise the electrical and structural integrity of a design. However, such enclosures are difficult to design. By choosing off-the-shelf enclosures that meet IP-68 requirements, designers can quickly get a design to market that will meet the challenges of extended outdoor use. www.digikey.co.uk
Rolf Horn, Applications Engineer at DigiKey Electronics, has been in the European Technical Support group since 2014 with primary responsibility for answering any development- and engineering-related questions from final customers in EMEA, as well as writing and proof-reading German articles and blogs on DK’s TechForum and maker.io platforms. Prior to Digi-Key, he worked at several manufacturers in the semiconductor area with focus on embedded FPGA, Microcontroller and Processor systems for Industrial and Automotive Applications. Rolf holds a degree in electrical and electronics engineering from the university of applied sciences in Munich, Bavaria and started his professional career at a local Electronics Products Distributor as SystemSolutions Architect to share his steadily growing knowledge and expertise as Trusted Advisor.
dpaonthenet.net 25
Feature: IT cooling
IT cooling: Look bey the norm for true inno F
or an outsider, the term “IT” conjures up images of cavernous futuristic facilities, myriads of twinkling LEDs, and technologies at the “bleeding edge” of the latest developments.
dium businesses don’t have the funds,
effects as above, degrading the overall
space or management backing to make
life or performance of the equipment,
large office moves or extensions a re-
and reducing installation efficiency.
ality.
Lack of scalability A CRAC unit requires planning and pre-
Clearly, most businesses can’t know
work to be a success. Businesses are
for certain how fast their IT installa-
becoming increasingly dependent on
tions need to grow to keep pace with
Don’t get me wrong, there are facil-
agile solutions to meet their ever-chang-
change. A large project, or influx of new
ities like this; but if you look closer to
ing needs, and CRACs don’t fit the bill.
staff, may mean new racks have to be
home, most installations are operating
installed, thus increasing the heat load.
on technology that has been in place for
Temperature fluctuations
If a business also hasn’t budgeted for
years, and this is not always effective.
As the air is delivered from below the
new cooling equipment, then problems
floor, it rises and increases in temper-
may quickly arise.
From a climate control perspective,
ature.
we’re talking CRAC units. Computer
A CRAC unit has a maximum cooling
Room Air Conditioning Units (CRAC)
Equipment placed in the highest Us of a
capacity. If that is exceeded, there are
are the mainstay of the ‘White Space’,
rack receives air which can be degrees
two options:
supplying the cavity below the raised
warmer than its lower counterparts. The
1. Remove the existing unit and re-
floor with cold air, which is then directed
discrepancy between required and ac-
place with a larger and more expen-
up to the equipment via perforated floor
tual air temperatures can be detrimental
tiles in front of the racks.
to the performance, lifespan and reliability of the equipment.
For today’s IT professional, there are some possible downsides.
sive alternative. 2. Supplement the existing unit by buying another smaller CRAC to support it.
In some cases, the distance of the CRAC to the equipment results in a de-
Both options have downsides – replac-
Upheaval of the business
lay in response to any increase in heat
ing a unit that has, for example, only
First, you must have the right location,
load. This delay, however slight, means
been in place for a short time is likely
and employ a professional installer to
that equipment will be exposed to high-
to be an unpopular, if not a financially
fit the raised floor. Many small and me-
er temperatures. This can have similar
unviable, option.
26 dpaonthenet.net
Feature: IT cooling Using in-row to cool the aisle means that
Full immersion cooling
if one cooler was to break down, then
Full immersion cooling takes things to
the other could increase output to sup-
the next level. Instead of passing liquid
port.
by the heatsink to wick away excess heat, the whole server is placed into a
Meanwhile, for businesses with only lim-
reservoir of ‘thermally conductive dielec-
ited space, or where the equipment is
tric coolant’ which comes into contact
placed within the office, a glazed in-rack
with the equipment from all angles, al-
option is an all-enclosed, quiet solution.
lowing maximum removal of waste heat.
There is also no requirement for a raised
It’s a method which is becoming increas-
floor, so general office space could be
ingly popular with data centres focusing
converted over just a few days.
on “green” credentials and mindful of how they are utilising the waste heat.
If the heat load increases, they can have
yond ovation
their output increased rapidly by insert-
Combining this with other methods of
ing more fan units into the front of the
cooling is a big positive as full immer-
cooler. Added to which, with cooling ca-
sion can operate at higher water tem-
pacities of 53kW in a unit that occupies
peratures than other techniques. Even
just 0.36m², it’s highly scalable.
after all the cooling has been performed, users can use the gathered waste heat
Rear door coolers
to warm offices, raising the efficiency
Simply put, this means replacing the ex-
levels up further!
isting rear door of the rack and installing a replacement that houses a large Air to
Make the break
Water Heat Exchanger.
The reality is that, despite the newer
Karl Lycett is Rittal UK’s Product Manager for Industrial and IT Climate Control. He began his career as a Mechanical Design Engineer before moving into product management while working for Eaton. He joined Rittal as Climate Control Product Manager in 2017 and focuses on the Industrial & IT markets. His main aim is to support the UK customer base by providing expert advice and sales support on their range of innovative solutions.
(potentially better) options, CRAC units Ambient air in the room is drawn through
will be around for some time. Legacy
Supplementing the unit with something
the rack equipment using internal fans.
equipment will continue to be replaced
smaller is possible, but as mentioned,
Hot air is exhausted and passes over the
and businesses will simply perform like-
CRACs take up significant space.
rear door cooler. Chilled water running
for-like swaps on their old raised floor
through the rear door removes heat from
installs.
CRACs may be an option for some busi-
the air and it passes back into the room
nesses, but for those wanting to take
for reuse at the set temperature.
their install to the next level, there are other (better) alternatives.
About the author:
However, don’t be afraid to look beyond the familiar and embrace the new; you
This solution is particularly suited to
won’t regret it!
lower cooling requirements (<20kW per
The present
rack) and if you already have a chilled
In-row & in-rack cooling
water supply on-site that they can be
These two solutions have a lot in com-
connected to, this can be a serious con-
mon; what sets them apart is how they
tender.
www.rittal.co.uk
deliver the air to equipment.
The future In-row requires your racks to have per-
On-Chip cooling
forated doors and should be used in
On-Chip directs cooling inside servers
conjunction with Aisle Containment to
to small heat sinks which are attached
prevent hot and cold mixing. Cold air
to chips and other important hardware
is pushed directly out of the front of
within.
the cooler into the cold aisle and then passed across the IT equipment.
This method has been around for some time, using air as the medium for remov-
In-rack, by contrast, requires the use of
ing heat; however, as processing power
glazed doors and doesn’t require Aisle
continues to climb, and miniaturisation
Containment. Instead it creates a “mini
is still the focus, the amount of heat gen-
cold aisle” by supplying the cooled air
erated is increasing. Liquid On-Chip in-
sideways, directly in front of the equip-
creases the efficacy of this method and
ment.
continues to push the limits of cooling within increasingly smaller footprints.
dpaonthenet.net 27
Feature: Easy-assembly enclosures
At last, an enclosure designed to reduce assembly time T
he ability to reduce production and assembly times can possess far greater benefits than first thought. A company’s capacity to take a standard BOM part and process it through to a finished design is a great indicator of its efficiency. Being able to assemble complete products is directly linked to the company’s profitability and will provide them with a more competitive edge on the market. In order to gain increased customer satisfaction and profit margin, we should strive to identify strategies on how to reduce the manufacturing cycle and ensure we have refined internal processes.
attaches the lid to the base. This allows the lid to be attached quickly and easily, without the need to screw down the lid. With this feature, it provides faster assembly over conventional lids and, therefore, offers cost savings. If this isn’t necessary for you and you prefer a conventional method, then the lid is reversible and can be turned 180°, where a brass insert will then line up with the buttonhole. This will allow a countersunk screw to be used. CamdenBoss has manufactured this premium enclosure with features that are
In this article, we are going to be looking at
be more profitable for assembly houses.
ways in which shorter assembly times can
designed to tackle industry requirements and the problems faced by equipment
be achieved with CamdenBoss’s latest
The Easy Assembly Electronics Enclosure
manufacturers. Whilst a premium enclo-
enclosure, the Easy Assembly Electronics
makes use of a unique dual-action lid, fea-
sure may seem extravagant, the benefits
Enclosure, and how this can translate to
turing a push-button clip mechanism that
of its advanced features far outweigh this.
28 dpaonthenet.net
Feature: Easy-assembly enclosures
The lid functionality provides effortless assembly capability which saves an immense amount of time on the production line, allowing assembly times to be greatly reduced. With these shortened assembly times, as well as less time wasted dealing with screws to secure the lid, more units can be put together much more quickly; boosting efficiency, shortening lead times, and effectively providing cost savings and increased sales. The Easy Assembly Electronics Enclosure has another trick up its sleeve to boost production line output, which can be found within the enclosure
The same but different
itself. Located at the top of the base section is a set of supports on either side. These supports have been designed so that they do not require
PCB Terminal blocks with screw or Push-in connection
screws when you are mounting your PCB. As a further security measure, the lid incorporates a set of moulded plastic springs that hold the PCB in place from the top, so the board experiences no movement once the enclosure has been assembled.
Identical size, different connection technology - TDPT series PCB terminal
These smart features can provide unbeaten benefits to both the OEM
blocks enable you to develop market
manufacturer for assembly speed, and the end user, should the inter-
specific devices in a unified design. Thanks
nal space need to be accessed at any time. So, if you are looking for
to their identical shape you can chose
an enclosure that provides both quality and a high standard of design,
either screw or Push-in connection -
with the added benefit of a quick assembly foolproof method, the Easy
without changing your PCB or device
Assembly Electronics Enclosure from CamdenBoss is the electronics
design.
housing you need. To learn of the other features the enclosure has to offer or to talk about your future design, call the CamdenBoss sales team today on 01638 716101.
For additional information call 0845 881 2222 or visit https://www.camdenboss.com/
phoenixcontact.co.uk/tdpt
dpaonthenet.net 29
Feature: Bearings in extreme environments
Withstanding heat and pressure – reliable bearing designs for extreme environments B
earing systems are critical parts in a machine – and their failure could have catastrophic and costly consequences. The bearing design has a major impact on reliability, especially in extreme operating conditions, including high or low temperatures, vacuum and corrosive atmospheres. This article outlines points to consider when specifying bearings for challenging environments, to ensure high reliability and excellent long-life performance of equipment.
the aerospace industry, can present chal-
can tolerate very high temperatures for
lenges for standard bearings. Furthermore,
longer periods.
temperatures are rising in equipment as units become increasingly smaller and
Materials
have increased power-density, which pos-
When it comes to temperatures over
es a problem for the average bearing.
300°C, special ring and ball materials are necessary. AISI M50 is a high-temperature
Lubrication
steel that is typically recommended as it
Lubrication is an important consideration
exhibits high wear and fatigue resistance
here. Oils and greases have maximum
at high temperatures. BG42 is another
operating temperatures at which point they
high-temperature steel that has a good
will start to degrade and evaporate quickly,
hot hardness at 300°C and is commonly
leading to bearing failure. Standard greases
specified since it has high levels of corrosion
are often limited to a maximum temperature
resistance and is also less susceptible to
of around 120°C and some conventional
fatigue at extreme temperatures.
high-temperature greases are capable of A bearing system comprises many el-
resisting temperatures of up to 180°C.
ements, including balls, rings, cages
High-temperature cages are also required and can be supplied in special polymer
and lubrication. Standard bearings do
However, for applications that require even
materials, such as PTFE, polyimide, pol-
not typically stand up to the rigours of
higher temperatures, special fluorinated
yamide-imide (PAI) and polyetheretherke-
harsh environments, so the individual
lubricating greases are available and
tone (PEEK). For high-temperature, oil-lu-
parts require special consideration. The
temperatures above 250°C are attainable.
bricated systems, bearing cages can also
most important elements are lubrication,
Where liquid lubrication is not possible, solid
be manufactured from bronze, brass or
materials, and special heat treatment or
lubrication allows for reliable low-speed
silver-plated steel.
coatings.
operation at even higher temperatures. In this case, molybdenum disulphide (MOS2),
Coatings and heat treatment
Operating at high temperature
tungsten
graphite
Advanced coatings and surface treat-
High-temperature applications, such as
and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) are
ments can be applied to bearings to com-
those used in actuation systems within
recommended as solid lubricants as they
bat friction, corrosion and wear, thus im-
30 dpaonthenet.net
disulphide
(WS2),
Feature: Bearings in extreme environments proving the bearing performance at high
temperatures to allow for an acceptable
ceramic ball materials such as zirconia
temperatures. For example, steel cages
level at low temperatures.
and silicon carbide can be used to further
can be coated with silver. In the case of
increase a bearing’s resistance to corrosive substances.
a solid lubricant, allowing the bearing to
Handling the pressure of vacuum
continue running for a short period or in
In ultra-high vacuum environments, such
an emergency.
as those that are present in manufacturing
Getting more from media lubrication
lubricant failure, the silver plating acts like
electronics, semiconductors and LCDs,
The final challenging environment is in
Reliability at low temperature
the pressure can be lower than 10-7mbar.
applications where the media acts as the
At the other end of the scale, low tem-
Ultra-high vacuum bearings are typically
lubricant, for example, refrigerants, water,
peratures can be problematic for stand-
used in actuation equipment, as well
or hydraulic fluids. The material is the most
ard bearings.
as turbomolecular pumps (TMP) which
important consideration, and SV30-ceramic
generate the vacuum for manufacturing
hybrid bearings have often been found
Lubrication
environments. In this latter application, the
to provide the most practical and reliable
In low-temperature applications (for ex-
bearings are often required to work at a high
solution.
ample, cryogenic pumping applications
speed.
Conclusion
with temperatures in the region of -190°C), oil lubrications become waxy – resulting in
Lubrication
Extreme
bearing failure. Solid lubrication, such as
At such high vacuums, standard lubrication
operational challenges to standard bearings,
MOS2 or WS2, is ideal for improving reli-
greases evaporate and also outgas, and
thus causing them to fail prematurely. In
ability. Furthermore, in these applications,
the lack of effective lubrication can result in
these applications, bearings should be
the media being pumped can act as the
bearing failure. Therefore, special lubrication
carefully configured so that they are fit for
lubricant, so the bearings need to be spe-
needs to be used. For high vacuum environ-
purpose and deliver excellent long-lasting
cially configured to operate at these low
ments (down to approximately 10-7 mbar),
performance. To ensure high reliability of
temperatures using materials that work
PFPE greases can be used as they have a
bearings, special attention should be paid
well with the media.
much higher resistance to evaporation. For
to lubrication, materials, surface coatings
ultra-high vacuum environments (10 mbar
and heat treatment.
-9
Materials
and below), solid lubricants and coatings
SV30 – a martensitic, through-hardened,
must be used.
high-nitrogen, corrosion-resistant steel –
environments
present
many
HQW Precision and The Barden Corporation fully understand the demands of harsh
can be used to improve a bearing’s fatigue
For medium vacuum environments (around
applications. Working together as ‘Partners
life and wear resistance. Ceramic balls
10-2mbar), with careful design and selection
in Precision’, the companies are sharing
are also recommended, as the inherent
of special vacuum grease, bearing systems
knowledge with customers worldwide,
mechanical properties of the material
that operate at high speeds and deliver
helping them to improve the reliability of
mean that they provide excellent operation
long lifetimes of more than 40,000 hours
their equipment. For more information, visit
in poor lubrication conditions and can
(approximately five years) of continual use
https://www.hqw.gmbh/en/ or
operate reliably at low temperatures.
can be achieved.
www.bardenbearings.co.uk.
Cage material should also be as wear
Corrosion resistance
resistant as possible – PEEK, polychloro-
Bearings which are intended for use in a
trifluoroethylene (PCTFE) and PAI plastics
corrosive environment need to be specially
are all good options.
configured as they can potentially be
About the author: Stefan Vogel is the Sales & Applications Manager, HQW Precision GmbH and Barney Eley, Senior Application Engineer at The Barden Corporation.
exposed to acids, alkalis and saltwater – Heat treatment
among other corrosive chemicals.
Rings should be specially heat treated to improve dimensional stability at low
Materials
temperatures.
Materials are a vital consideration for corrosive environments. Standard bearing
Internal design
steels readily corrode, leading to early bearing
Bearings are designed with a level of
failure. In this case, SV30 ring material with
radial play, but as temperature reduces,
ceramic balls should be considered as it is
the bearing components undergo thermal
highly resistant to corrosion. Studies have
contraction and the amount of radial play
shown that SV30 material can last much
is therefore reduced. If the level reduces
longer than other corrosion-resistant steel
to zero during operation, this will result in
in a salt spray environment. In controlled
bearing failure. Bearings that are intended
salt spray tests, SV30 steel shows only
for low-temperature applications should
slight signs of corrosion after 1,000 hours
be designed with more radial play at room
of salt spray testing (see graph 1). Special
Graph 1 – The graph shows the degree of corrosion over time for three materials SV30, X65Cr13 and 100Cr6
dpaonthenet.net 31
Feature: Bearing mounting
Perfect fit: Raising the standard of bearing mounting
C
orrect mounting is vital in lengthening the life of a bearing – yet there are multiple factors involved behind getting it right.
this in mind, anything that can help
ing. The installation method – and the
maintenance staff improve their bearing
relative ease of the fitting process – dif-
mounting skills will help to raise produc-
fers depending on whether it has a cy-
tivity and efficiency.
lindrical or tapered seating, for instance.
Getting it right
With regards to mounting technique,
Most bearings last longer than the ma-
If bearings are not mounted properly,
bearings can be heated – to expand
chine into which they are installed. In the
they do not function correctly, which can
them, so they fit into place more easily
small number of cases where they fail,
lead to damage and premature failure.
– or installed ‘cold’. Bearings can also
around one in six is caused by incorrect
Correct mounting and replacement of a
be installed using hydraulic techniques,
mounting.
bearing requires a technician to identify
such as oil injection.
the bearing correctly and understand its Around 10 billion bearings are manufac-
mounting specification requirements.
tured each year, which means more than
Although made of steel, bearings are delicate engineered components and
eight million are replaced early because
There are many factors to consider, in-
must be treated carefully. Even before a
of faulty fitting procedures. If initial bear-
cluding bearing size, type and mount-
bearing is mounted, it should be stored
ing installation – and remounting new
ing technique. Regarding size, large
properly in a clean environment. A cool,
bearings – can be improved, this will ex-
bearings must be handled carefully
dry area is ideal. Mounting should be
tend their lifespan and reduce the need
– for maximum safety, and to ensure
done in a dust-free environment. If this
for maintenance on critical machinery.
that lifting forces are evenly distributed.
is not possible – which is typical for large
Bearings must not be suspended from
bearings – the mounting area should be
Although there are many different bear-
a single point. For this reason, larger
protected with plastic or foil, to prevent
ings, in a range of sizes and types, they
bearings usually have threaded holes to
contamination. If bearings are to be
are far from being ‘plug and play’. Each
accommodate eye bolts.
grease-lubricated, or used at high or low
needs to be fitted in the correct way – of-
temperatures, it is best to wash and dry
ten using specific tools and techniques
There are many different bearing types,
– to ensure optimum performance. With
including multiple variants of roller bear-
32 dpaonthenet.net
them before mounting.
Feature: Bearing mounting It is worth remembering that dismounting
dentations corresponding to the distance
with input from customers, provides de-
bearings incorrectly can also cause prob-
between the balls.
tailed instructions for mounting many
lems. This is why it is unwise to dismount a
different SKF bearings. It is suitable for
good bearing unless absolutely necessary.
Another cause of early fatigue is contami-
use by all levels of technician. Techni-
If this must be done – and the bearing is to
nants trapped in the bearing or housing.
cians can also record the work they have
be re-mounted and re-used – a few things
These could have been introduced during
carried out, to improve the way in which
should be remembered. Firstly, do not hit the
mounting or be residual contaminants from
bearing knowledge is shared across an
bearing rings or any other part directly. Sec-
a previous bearing failure.
organisation.
be transmitted through the rolling elements.
Cylindrical roller bearings can be easily
Once a bearing has been mounted, this
Finally, do not heat the bearing with an open
damaged during assembly. If the shaft is
can be recorded on the app – with details
flame. If a bearing requires heat to be re-
askew during assembly, and not rotated,
including date, specific asset, location
moved, it is better to use heating rings.
the rollers can scratch the raceway of the
and work order. Results can be export-
inner ring. This problem can be avoided by
ed as a PDF, reducing the time needed
Bearing problems
correctly lubricating all components and the
to produce a mounting report. Recording
You know you have a problem when bear-
inner ring when mounting.
these details so efficiently will improve
ondly, do not allow the dismounting force to
ings start showing ‘out of spec’ charac-
maintenance collaboration. This can im-
teristics. These include high temperature,
Mounting help
prove maintenance planning – which ulti-
noisy operation and excessive vibration or
The variety of factors involved in mounting
mately helps to raise asset reliability.
shaft movement. All of these symptoms can
a bearing correctly makes a tool such as
cause damage if left unchecked. All can be
SKF’s Bearing Assist app particularly useful.
Bearing Assist can be downloaded free
caused by incorrect mounting – though oth-
Bearing Assist is a phone app that simplifies
from the Apple and Google stores. In-app
er factors can also be responsible.
the task of mounting and replacing bear-
registration is needed. Log-in details are
ings.
the same as ProCollect and other SKF
One of the main causes of early fatigue
applications.
failure is impact damage during handling,
Firstly, it contains detailed product informa-
mounting, storage or operation. Here, the
tion, including bearing designation and type
Once a bearing has failed, it must be
impact is higher than the material strength,
(including a photograph) and suffix descrip-
fixed – or ideally replaced. There are
which leads to plastic deformation. Damage
tions, plus dimensions and an illustration.
many factors behind mounting a bearing
begins at the point of deformation and ends
It also has mounting instructions, covering
correctly, including choosing the correct
in premature bearing failure.
bearings with a basic design that are includ-
type, using the right tools and lubricant,
ed in the standard assortment. The inclusion
and understanding specification require-
For instance, applying the mounting force
of information such as clearance reduction
ments. Bearing Assist helps technicians
via the outer ring can cause damage to
and drive-up method calculations – and
to mount a new bearing correctly and
the inner ring of a double row angular
recommendations on lubrication – can save
minimise the risk that it will fail in service.
contact ball bearing. The resulting plastic
time and effort when fitting new bearings.
deformation causes equally spaced in-
Bearing Assist, which was developed
www.skf.com
dpaonthenet.net 33
Feature: Winding belts
Seamless winding belts produce paper straws In the manufacture of paper drinking straws, multiple webs of paper are wound around a mandrel by means of a belt
N
itta Industries Europe GmbH introduces its seamless winding belts for manufacturing environmentally friendly drinking straws. The newly developed belt, SE-XA-PGG-F, has a substantially extended lifetime, so does not have to be replaced so often. It is manufactured with FDA rubber, fulfilling the needs of the food and beverage industries.
alternative is paper. Because of mass
developed a seamless belt, ensuring
production and advanced automation,
the highest performance in paper straw
the market price for a plastic straw is well
production. In close cooperation with
below one penny. Alternative materials,
machine manufacturers and following
which demand new production methods
rigorous field and laboratory tests, Nitta’s
and new machinery, entail higher costs.
winding belt, SE-XA-PGG-F, has a unique
However, once they are adopted by the
rubber cover – a compound that meets
market and mass production methods are
the extraction limits specified in the FDA
introduced, the costs of producing paper
21 CFR177.2600 for rubber articles in
straws – and the price for consumers – will
contact with aqueous and fatty foods. The
fall dramatically.
innovation is based on Nitta’s proprietary seamless SEB technology for joint-free
Most manufacturers of paper straws use
belts with no end connection. The belts
In May 2019, The Council of the European
machines in which multiple paper webs
have long service lives with correspond-
Union adopted a directive for reducing sin-
are wound around a mandrel using a belt.
ingly long machine production times, so
gle-use plastic products, including drinking
The drawback is the belt’s very short life-
customers benefit from considerable cost
straws. As over 36 billion plastic straws
time, which can be as short as one day.
savings.
are used every year in the EU, over seven
The downtime for the paper straw ma-
million kilometres of non-recyclable plastic
chinery, due to frequent belt changes,
“For manufacturers of paper drinking
waste is produced. The German Ministry
results in higher production costs com-
straws, the longer service life of the belts
for the Environment confirms that plastic
pared with plastic.
means lower cost of ownership,” says
straws are among the major polluting items
Michael Planz, Sales Manager for Nitta
in the world’s oceans. The industry has un-
Straws have small diameters, resulting in
Industries Europe. “The demand for paper
til 2021 to implement the directive in full.
increased bending for the belt and high
drinking straws is expected to rise dra-
abrasion to the belt surface by the pa-
matically in early 2021, and the produc-
Various renewable alternatives exist, in-
per. Additionally, the belt must cope with
tion capacities currently available will not
cluding bamboo or straw, but these are
a high load from the stationary mandrel
be able to satisfy it. This development will
difficult to standardise and can sometimes
around which the paper is wound during
benefit those businesses which are pre-
create other environmental problems. Mul-
the manufacturing process.
pared to explore new paths with innova-
tiple-use straws for bars and homes, the
tive products and solutions first. Nitta has
use of stainless steel or glass, as well as
The Research and Development Depart-
edible versions made from pasta, are not
ment at the specialist belt manufacturer,
suitable on an industrial scale. One good
Nitta, has taken up this challenge and
34 dpaonthenet.net
just the right belt for this.” https://www.nitta.com/
Buyers Guide: Displays
Geared Motors – 12mm / 90mm dia
Batteries & Chargers
Displays Displays Touchscreens Displays Touchscreens Industrial Pc’s Touchscreens Industrial Pc’s Display systems
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To advertise here contact
Andrew Quenault
Solutions to drive application problems with a comprehensive range of motors, geared motors and accessories. Hybrid solutions also available at moderate cost. Our products are widely used in industry, education and R&d markets, with some of the following as typical applications. Robotics, laboratory equipment, surveillance cameras, slot machines, shop displays,vehicle equipment, telecoms equipment,lighting and ventilation control. Locking mechanisims, machinery activators, shop displays etc etc.
MFA/Como Drills Felderland Lane, Worth, Deal, Kent CT14 0BT Tel: 01304 612132
Fax: 01304 614696
Business Advice Consultants
http://www.mcs-corporate. com
on
01732 359990 or email andrew. quenault@imlgroup.co.uk
R&D/Cost Recovery/Patents/ Land Remediation Research and Development Tax Credits Patent Box Land Remediation Claims www.mcs-corporate.com gjw@mcs-corporate.com 10 Station Road Kenilworth CV8 1JJ 01926 512477
Web: www.mfacomodrills.com
Fasteners & Fixings
• Tappex Thread Inserts Ltd – 60yrs+ of UK manufacturing excellence in Threaded Inserts for Plastics, Composites & Light Metal alloys • Tappex provide an Applications technical service, prototyping and bespoke installation tooling historically across multiple industry sectors: OEM/Automotive/ Medical & Industrial Equipment manufactures • Tappex offer fastening solutions produced from Brass, Steel, Stainless Steels & Titanium inserts with both Metric, Unified and British Standard threads Contact details: Tappex Thread Inserts Ltd Tel: +44 1789 206600 Email: sales@tappex.co.uk; New Website: www.tappex.co.uk
Going beyond IE5:
The gold standard in motor efficiency 22: Cobot safety Safety for robots in collaborative applications
200717_9-2_Mill_DPA_UK_Snipe.indd 1
contact
Andrew Quenault on
September 2020
Lenze in the UK: It’s all about the “Brainware”
advertise here
Downloadable catalogues and applications advice on the website.
The Engineer’s guide to new products & design ideas
08: Brainware
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7/16/20 10:39 AM
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MVK Fusion – Revolutionary 3-in-1 Module IO-Link valve islands
IO-Link button systems
Emergency stops Key and selector switches
Safety valves
Double safety valves IO-Link analog converters
Foot switches
Smart IO-Link sensors Enabling switches
DC motors
IO-Link grippers
IO-Link temperature sensors
Safety door systems
Door switch
IO-Link hubs
IO-Link inductive sensors
Valves
Safety command devices
IO-Link distance sensors Two-handed devices
IO-Link pressure sensors
Light curtains
IO-Link transponder systems
Digital sensors
Laser scanners
02 Safety
IO-Link
03 01
Standard IO
IO-Link inductive couplers
Three basic functions on one module 01/ standard digital sensors and actuators 02/ safety digital sensors and actuators 03/ IO-Link devices The PROFINET/PROFIsafe MVK Fusion module standardizes three components, opening the door to a one-module strategy.
www.murrelektronik.co.uk