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Top 5 Plant Engineering content: August 8-14, 2022
The top 5 Plant Engineering content from the past week hydraulic cylinders, AMR technology, robots, MES and workplace skills. Miss something? You can catch up here.
Cutting tool orders up 9% in Q1 2022
Cutting tool consumption totaled $175.4 million in the United States for the first quarter of 2022, which is an increase of more than 9% compared to 2021.
Choosing the right cylinder isn’t always easy
Sometimes the problem is too many options
World events create disruptions in motors and drives
There are several factors in crucial areas of the motor and drive supply chain to note as the Russian invasion of Ukraine continues. See video.
Metal fabrication show going live in September
FABTECH will return to Chicago Sept. 13-16, providing attendees with an opportunity to see the latest trends and products in person.
Active piezoelectric shims improve machine precision
Due to the piezo element’s high resolution down to the nanometer range, active shims cover applications in classical mechanical precision engineering as well as the alignment of optical components in astronomy, semiconductor manufacturing, and in materials research employing beamline instrumentation.
Top 5 Plant Engineering articles May 31- June 6, 2021
Articles about optimizing gas turbines performance, how to properly size surge protective devices, IIoT in the real world, and more were Plant Engineering’s five most clicked articles from May 31- June 6, 2021. Miss something? You can catch up here.
Optimizing gas turbine performance through planned maintenance and repairs
Gas turbines are efficient and reliable sources of power that drive generators in national power stations as well as smaller industrial settings.
Electromechanical resource center opened
EASA's Electromechanical Resource Center lets plant maintenance and reliability professionals access a range of technical resources relating to the operation and maintenance of electric motors and other electromechanical equipment.
Updating legacy rotating equipment
Retaining legacy equipment is a cost-effective way to minimize capital expenditure, provided efficiency and reliability can be upheld.
Equipment leasing and finance index plunges due to coronavirus uncertainty
The Equipment Leasing & Finance Foundation's Monthly Confidence Index for dropped more than 20% to 46.0.
Transform pneumatics systems for energy conservation, efficiency and safety
Machine automation evolution proves the only limitation is the imagination
Cutting tool consumption records slight decline
The U.S. Cutting Tool Institute (USCTI) and the Association For Manufacturing Technology (AMT) reported a 1% decline in November 2019 compared to the same period in 2018.
Equipment finance report gets boost thanks to consumer confidence
Consumer spending keeps things strong in the November 2019 Equipment Leasing and Finance Foundation's MCI-EFI report.
iglide I180 by Igus
The iglide I180 can uploading a CAD model of the part to the igus website, choosing a printing material, and placing the order.
Top 5 Plant Engineering articles, October 29 to November 4
Articles about Manufacturing 4.0, implementing change, predictive maintenance, compressed air and VFDs, and the plant of the future were Plant Engineering's five most clicked articles from last week, October 29 to November 4. Were you out? You can catch up here.
Top 5 Plant Engineering articles, October 15-21
Articles about Manufacturing 4.0, predictive maintenance, digital twin collaboration, compressed air and VFDs, and the plant of the future were Plant Engineering's five most clicked articles from last week, October 15-21. Were you out? You can catch up here.
Women in Engineering: The journey to a career in engineering
"Growing up, I always enjoyed math and science. I loved seeing my work on paper turn into something real as well."
Your tablet is your new HMI
A year ago, Plant Engineering lamented the death of the human-machine interface (HMI), at least as we have known it. The increased use of tablets, smartphones and other portable devices has moved the machine-bound HMI to the back bench. That hasn’t changed the value of the HMI, however, and certain new rules and realities have to be part of the equation.
Choose the right automation controller
It seems like a basic need, but look deeper before deciding.
Robotics: Driving efficiency, creating jobs
Robots aren’t the job killer some fear. In fact, they may be the catalyst for better jobs, and more of them.
Robotics will drive job growth, study finds
Global research finds mid-sized manufacturers will benefit—if they can find workers.
‘The only way to advance is through technology.’
“The manufacturing segment of the value chain is undergoing a renaissance because digitalization makes it much more strategic to a company’s performance than ever before.”
Motor maintenance trends: 6 factors to evaluate
Recent EASA research studies provide new insights on repair vs. replace to help motors reliably drive machinery, pumps, conveyors, and other vital industrial equipment.
Where’s the ‘Factory of the Present’?
If manufacturers wait too long, their plant won’t have a chance to be considered a ‘Factory of the Future’. In an era when manufacturing is gaining respect and building strength despite the many challenges the industry faces, the laggards will be merely ‘Factories of the Past’.
Digital supply chain has arrived, and challenges await
MHI study cites three barriers to adoption, but a majority of companies already use the technology.
Roundtable forum on semiconductors, automations at Hannover Messe announced
IHS Markit will host a multi-topic roundtable-style forum about the semiconductor and automation industries at Hannover Messe 2018.
400-volt servo motors and amplifiers
A complete line of 400-volt servo motors and amplifiers includes a completely new amplifier design that offers unique advantages to machine builders and end users seeking to upgrade a 400-volt motion control system.
The drive to prevent downtime
Aging equipment is revealed as a major area of concern in manufacturing.
Knowing the causes and solutions for bearing issues
Improving the performance and longevity of bearings begins with understanding the most common causes of bearing failure and malfunction.
Filter replacement: 5 signs it’s time for a change
Testing and monitoring offer best indications of filter health.
Electro-Hydraulic Motion Controller
RMC200 is an electro-hydraulic motion controller capable of controlling up to 32 motion axes simultaneously.
Rare earth metals in the industrial sector
Known for their magnetic and electrochemical properties, these components enhance the performance of various industrial equipment with minimal weight and emissions. Furthermore, they offer superior efficiency, durability, performance, and speed to several pieces of equipment used in many industries.
2017 Engineering Leader Under 40: Alexander Hamilton, 29
Mechanical Engineering Team Leader, RedViking, Plymouth, Mich.
2017 Engineering Leader Under 40: Elizabeth Kokesh, 31
Senior Maintenance & Reliability Professional, Cargill, Hopkins, Minn.
2017 Engineering Leader Under 40: Adithi Raghavendra, 27
CSD Engineering Manager, Solid State Relays (Industrial Sensing), Sensata Technologies, Tijuana, Mexico
Condensing boilers: the final step in boiler savings
Using a counterflow heat exchanger arrangement to take the exhaust below the point of condensation results in improvements in efficiency in the magnitude of 10% to 15% over an annual heating cycle.
Seven tips for proper bearing maintenance
Bearings are important mechanical components that help in maintaining the liner and rotational movements of a machine and it is important they are maintained properly to ensure long operational life.
Valve positioner
This electropneumatic valve positioner offers outstanding accuracy and industry-leading reliability with an ease of installation, calibration, and operation.
Automatic case packer
The XpressPack automatic case packer is designed to run high volumes of cartons in a single-layer, single-row configuration.
Shaft alignment tool
The TKSA 71 shaft alignment tool is designed to deliver precise measurements for a range of alignment tasks in harsh industrial environments.
Precision limit switches
The precision limit/position switches are designed to be mounted in tight locations and have a 4mm diameter barrel.
Ejector venturi for tough process and high concentration emergency gas scrubbing
Bionomic's series 6500 jet venturi scrubber is designed to simultaneously remove gaseous contaminant and particulate down to .75 micron size for chemical, pharmaceutical, and other scrubbing applications.
Spring cotter pins for axial mounting
The GN 1024 cotter pins can be used for the axial mounting of bolts and axles.
Polarization index testing benefits
Polarization index (PI) testing is an extension of the insulation resistance test and is designed to check specific issues in a motor such as moisture and insulation deterioration.
Top 5 Plant Engineering articles, June 26 to July 2: Continuous improvement, electrical design, common welding errors, more
Articles about creating a continuous improvement team, electrical design, common welding errors, potential safety hazards, and remote monitoring were Plant Engineering's five most clicked articles from last week, June 26 to July 2. Were you out? You can catch up here.
Gear drive specification Webcast: Your questions answered
Robin Olson, director of applications engineering, Rexnord Industries, answered additional questions on gear drive specification from the Jun. 15 webcast.
Five lubrication warning signs to look for
Lubrication testing is common for preventive maintenance programs and people performing the tests should watch out for water, acid, and viscosity during the tests.
Gear motor and gearhead line
A full line of gear motors and gearheads has been designed to pair with every servo motor, creating complete gear motor solutions rated from a low of 50 W to as high as 15 kW.
Motor control devices for low-voltage management
The motor control devices of the Simocode pro product series were developed specifically for the management of motors in the low-voltage range and can be integrated simply into virtually any control system.
Potable water solenoid valves
The NS-Series National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) certified potable water solenoid valves can be mounted in any position and a spring-loaded plunger assures positive shutoff.
Benefits and limitations of ac generator motors
AC generator motors have advantages such as simple design and not requiring matching voltages, but they do have some drawbacks such as higher levels of insulation.
Carbon brush benefits for a dc motor
In dc motors, the carbon brush makes sure the commutation process remains free from sparks and helps conduct electric current between the moving parts of the motor.
Bring the heat to avoid six common welding errors
Avoiding six common welding mistakes such as improper gas pressure, poor material fit-up, and overlooking preventive maintenance can reduce costs, improve productivity.
Soft starter 101: How do they work?
Soft starters are designed to increase the voltage in steps and keep the motor from receiving the full voltage right away, which saves the motor from damage over time.
Molded nylon position hinge
The MH-18 molded nylon position hinge integrates one-way torque technology while enabling easy adjustment with no resistance.
Double-diaphragm pumps with welded flanges
The Husky line of corrosion-resistant stainless steel air-operated double diaphragm (AODD) pumps has expanded to include stainless steel ANSI/DIN welded flanges.
Motor and gearbox
The Smart Gear g350 is a compact mechatronic drive unit combining a gearbox, motor, electronics and software and blends the motor and gearbox elements, so the gear ratio slips far into the motor housing.
High-torque tool
The QX Series Cordless Torque Multiplier is a high-torque fastening tool for industrial applications that employs advanced technology to ensure accurate, repeatable bolting for torque-critical joints.
Geared bearing solutions with zero backlash
Geared Bearing solutions comes with a zero backlash gear mounted and dialed in on a precision grade high capacity bearing and are preconfigured for fit, form and function, for easy integration into any precision rotary motion application.
Lightweight mag drill
The HMD130 is an ultra low-profile, compact magnetic drill designed for fast, efficient holemaking in confined spaces.
Series of pressure indicators, transmitters
The Series 699 Differential Pressure Indicators & Transmitters are designed for use with air and neutral gases to measure low differential pressures typically found in air conditioning applications.
Belt-type oil skimmer
The Mini-Skimmer R.S. is a belt-type oil skimmer designed to collect over a quart of oil p/hr, skim unwanted tramp oils from coolants, and clean wastewater.
Compression hip kit
The LinearX 3 compression hip kit is an all-in-one solution that contains the essential tools needed to strip, cut, and terminate coaxial cables.
Position hinge with compact design
The RT-50 position hinge is designed to hold the angle of mounted components in any position.
Clamp column cover brackets
The clamp brackets enable quick installation column covers onto rectangular and round structural columns with large or small diameters.
Liquidtight conduit fittings
4QSS liquidtight fittings feature 316 stainless steel for wet, corrosive locations and is engineered for industries where sanitation is a critical concern such as food, beverage, and pharmaceutical.
Integrated VSD compressors: 8 key advantages
Strategy combines compressor motor, drive in one package.
Shaft machine for variety of machining operations
Rotomax flexible shaft machine features interchangeable hand pieces for a variety of machining operations with a single machine.
Addition to LubePro pump series
Graco Inc. adds the A2800 vertical oil and A2900 vertical grease pumps to the LubePro™ series of injector-based automatic lubrication pumps.
Analytical transmitter
The Liquiline CM44P can measure 16 different parameters from 6 analytical sensors simultaneously, simplifying monitoring of processes such as chromatography, fermentation, phase separation and filtration.
Grease gun with integrated grease meter
The TLGB 20 grease gun is a portable tool to maximize efficiency and accuracy of manual lubrication for bearings, machines, and off-road equipment across industries.
Carbon-graphite self-lubricating materials
Metcar materials feature a low coefficient of friction and good wear properties in a high speed environment, making them ideal for aircraft gearbox face seals.
Three reasons to implement a mobile maintenance strategy
A mobile CMMS app can give maintenance professionals a new and better organized way to complete routine duties.
Give technicians the tools they need to succeed
With an average of six out of 10 jobs going unfilled today in manufacturing, the lack of qualified technicians will continue to take its toll on industrial businesses. The demand for skilled technicians has been on the rise for years. With a proactive business mindset, however, service organizations can make the most of the qualified technicians by equipping the service team with an all-in-one service management solution.
Elemental analyzer
The Thermo Scientific CB Omni Fusion analyzer is designed to meet the demands and challenges of cement plant operators and quality control personnel seeking efficient analytical methods to produce and control the quality of cement products.
Library for pneumatic systems
The MapleSim Pneumatics Library extends the scope of MapleSim to include the modeling and simulation of pneumatics systems.
What is the problem with counterfeit bearings?
The reason counterfeit items are made is that they are a cheap imitation, yet they appear as if they are a well-known brand. In fact, some of the counterfeits look more like the real item than the actual item itself.
Innovation and motion control at 2016 Hannover Messe
Interview with Arun Jain, VP of Motion Control at Siemens Industry at Hannover Messe.
Electromagnetic flowmeter for demanding and harsh environments.
The OPTIFLUX 4100 electromagnetic flowmeter is demanding and harsh applications including liquid manure applications, dragline pump safety, and billing for commercial applicators.
Cryogenic vs. mechanical freezers: The best uses for each method
Part two: Process freezing series.
Traceability a growing trend for process manufacturing
Traceability is growing in importance. In the next few years, we will see a significant increase of its use in process manufacturing as companies collect transactional data and explore Internet of Things (IoT) to increase traceability.
Vision-guided robotic inspection system
Vision-guided robotic inspection system that provides both automated inspection and decision making via an exclusive process monitoring tool.
Level winding drive
Rolling ring level drives enable users to spool cable with specific spacing between rows.
Stainless steel connector clamps
GN 132.5 stainless steel two-way connector clamps are designed to resist moisture build-up in hygienic applications.
Sealing and lubrication in mounted bearings webcast: Your questions answered
Webcast speaker Jim Madsen and Mac Duke from Baldor-Dodge answered additional questions about topics such as alternatives to managing heat for extending bearing service life and rules of thumb for checking grease.
Swivel fittings for tight, confining spaces
NPT swivel fittings are designed for applications in tight spaces or requiring precision positioning for achieving desired results.
Theatrical chain hoists
The TNER010S is 1 Ton and has a lifting speed of 32 feet per minute and the 2 Ton TNER020S model has a lifting speed of 16 feet per minute.
Air-operated diaphragm pumps for explosive atmospheres
MID and CU15 air-operated diaphragm pumps are designed to facilitate transfer of liquids up to 5000 cps in explosive atmospheres.
Cutting tools for metallic objects
Ruko cutting tools include high speed steel jobber length drill bits, internal and external thread chasers, knockout punch kits, grinders, and rotary burrs.
Centrifugal pump for hygienic pumping applications
EcoPure centrifugal pump designed to increase production efficiency and product safety in hygienic applications such as food and beverage, dairy, and pharmaceutical.
Motors and Drives System Webcast: Your questions answered
Webcast presenter William R. Finley, Sr. answered additional questions about topics such as VFDs for cooling tower fans and whether a VFD can be used in fixed speed and variable load systems.
High-definition thermal inspection cameras
The T1K series of premium HD inspection cameras equipped with an HD infrared detector that delivers image clarity, measurement performance, and an intuitive hybrid-touch user interface.
High efficiency dust collector
Quad Pulse Package PX dust collector offers high performance in a compact unit designed for pharmaceutical, chemical, and other processes that produce hazardous dusts in high concentrations.
Manufacturing Day a way to reach out into the future
Manufacturing Day is designed to dispel the prevalent misconceptions about our industry and also address the serious skilled labor gap that now exists.
Stainless steel in-line check valves
The Series S800 stainless steel check valves with flow prevention are designed for corrosive applications.
Fastening tools for industrial environments
Geta line drive fastening tools are designed for fast-paced construction, light industrial assembly, general maintenance, and repair applications.
Fittings and flow control valves for pneumatic cylinders
Nitra pneumatic G-thread fittings and flow control valves provide accurate airflow regulation for precise speed control of pneumatic cylinders.
Maintenance-free casters
Spinfinity maintenance-free casters are designed to provide strength in shock conditions and has CNC machining to host a large internal seal.
Miniature solenoid operated piston pump
The Model ET-17 miniature piston pump is designed for low volume OEM liquid pumping applications.
Liquid-tight connectors for indoor and outdoor locations
RACO liquid-tight connectors for metallic liquid-tight conduit and Type B flexible non-metallic liquid-tight conduit in outdoor or indoor locations.
Screw conveyor package
The Screw Conveyor Package (SCP) is designed as an alternative to screw conveyor drives and features speed reduction ratios and a coupled gearmotor to reduce the need for additional parts.
Stainless steel fittings for mechanical piping systems
Victaulic's stainless steel Advanced Groove Systems (AGS) fittings deliver fast, reliable piping system installation and facilitate proper coupling positioning for increase coupling-to-pipe engagement.
Switch for precision flow, level, temperature
The FLT93 Series FlexSwitch can be used in a wide range of fluids and industrial applications.
High-precision weighing platforms
The PBK9 and PFK9 weighing platforms provide accuracy and reliability in harsh industrial conditions.
Webcast Q&A: Motor Maintenance: The Predictive Way viewer questions answered
Vijay Anand, regional product specialist-condition monitoring & diagnostics for ABB was the presenter at the June 9 Plant Engineering Webcast, “Motor Maintenance: The Predictive Way.” An archive version of the Webcast is now available on the Plant Engineering Website.
The culture of lubrication
Critical process often goes overlooked, underappreciated.
Green and gold in lubrication
Environmentally friendly fluids and sealing systems offer a new perspective.
Five tips to make HVAC maintenance more effective
Here are five tips to help ensure the success and effectiveness of your facility’s HVAC maintenance plan.
Applications and inventions, quoting custom machinery
This article is intended to explain a little bit about the applications process machine builders use when quoting custom machinery.
Jaw forming ring
The jaw forming ring grips entire workpiece more uniformly to maximize jaw life on cutting and forming operations.
Spherical roller bearings
Bearings feature a common sphered raceway in the outer ring and an optimized internal design designed to reduce friction
Industry trend talk steam series part 4 of 4: The steam and condensate loop
This is the last installment of a four part series article on “The Steam and Condensate Loop from Generation to Recovery.” It is intended to give a brief, non-technical overview of the steam plant. It offers an overall explanation of how the different parts of the steam plant relate to each other – and represents useful reading for anyone who is unfamiliar with the topic of steam theory or steam plant equipment.
10 things to know about valves
A little valve knowledge can go a long way to improving your operation.
Combo-tip drivers
The combination-tip drivers are designed for maximum contact with the combination head screws most commonly found on electrical devices and fittings.
The new norm for Chinese machinery production
In 2014, machinery production in China is forecast to expand 7.4%, according to the quarterly tracker for Chinese Machinery Production from IHS Inc.
Pneumatic valves
The NITRA line of pneumatics products now includes additional directional control solenoid valves available in a variety of configurations to meet a broad range of pneumatic valve applications.
HDI+/HDI-L and HDV drop in anchors
The new Hilti HDI+/HDI-L+ Drop-In Anchors provide performance for applications such as anchoring sprinkler, HVAC, plumbing, electrical elements and suspended interior finishing elements.
Integral volume booster valve accessory
The Integral Volume Booster accessory for the Sipart PS2 electro-pneumatic valve positioner is designed for pneumatic actuators that require high flow for fast stroking times.
Pneumatic rotary actuators
The MHRQ double-rack, rack & pinion series includes a clean and compact extruded aluminum body for maximum mounting efficiency.
TF450 Laser marking machine
This laser solution takes advantage of all the benefits of it's fiber laser source including: long life, consistent marking quality, minimized integration costs and reduced maintenance. The TF450 beam vaporizes material, creating a completely unalterable marking. This allows use with multiple materials such as steel, stainless steel, aluminum, copper, and brass as well as industrial applications like: automotive, fittings, metallurgy, cutlery, armory, medical industry, and many more.
Edge of dock leveler
The BBL series edge of dock leveler is designed to compensate for uneven gap differences between truck bed and loading dock.
Identify three key elements in selecting lubrication
Cost, maintenance, and downtime all must factor into decision
Six steps to energy efficiency in pneumatic systems
By reevaluating system requirements and determining the right components to use, plants can save money and increase productivity
Capital spending seen as a boost to manufacturing
Economist talks about re-investment as a key to economic growth at German-American Chamber event
Valve Manufacturers Assn. creates online training
With employment rising, valve basics course seen as way to educate industry
Growth, hiring on the rise in valve industry
VMA reports positive trends at its 75th anniversary meeting
Pressure transducer
The PX409-USBH series of high speed pressure transducers connect directly to the computer and has 1000/reading/second capacity
Industrial caster
The Enhanced Precision Super Duty (EPSD) Series features swivel technology to improve the bearing's element of contact
Machine vision improves safety, productivity for food and beverage manufacturers
Machine vision can help food and beverage manufacturers improve manufacturing quality and performance by eliminating defects, verifying assembly and tracking, and capturing information at every stage of the production process
Flowmeter tip of the month: Ensure meter accuracy
One of the easiest ways to ensure meter accuracy is to ensure that the meter is piped properly. Attention should be paid to the required upstream and downstream pipe requirements needed to 'smooth' out the flow profile.
Lenze taking ‘machine-up’ approach in customer center
New Illinois facility expands company’s capability to grow.