News

Lockheed Martin demonstrates air space control software that mimics human tasks

Steer-by-wire gains foothold; LORD Corp. sees 41% growth in technology's sales

Second-stage manufacturer aims for 100-mpg utility vehicles

Composite armor portfolio expanded to meet urgent need for enhanced lightweight ballistic protection

Overcoming big challenges for small turbojet engines
One of the most challenging aspects in the development of unmanned air vehicles (UAVs) is designing compact, lightweight propulsion systems for delivering the required performance. In one recent project, Tusas Engine Industries, based in Turkey, used finite element analysis (FEA) to develop the high-speed, precision radial compressor impeller for a microjet turbine engine to be used in UAV applications such as target drones for testing the accuracy of surface-to-air and air-to-air weapon systems.
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High-Powered DC Gearmotor Increases Torque, Reduces Cost Globe Motors™ high-powered IM-21 Gearmotor delivers efficient motion control solutions for hospital beds, powered awnings, turret drives, mobility conversions, and more. The IM-21 is available in a wide range of standard windings and stack lengths. Optional encoders, brakes, connectors, and various output shaft configurations allow a variety of customer specified combinations without the cost normally associated with custom designs. Visit Globe Motors.

Variable-frequency drive retrofit nets pool complex $7K/yr
In the town of South Windsor, CT, the community swimming pool complex is a much-loved summer hotspot. While the pools themselves are a relaxing escape for members of the community, keeping the more than one million gallons of water utilized in the three pools clean is a demanding and energy-hungry round-the-clock task. Facility manager Tim Friend installed ABB variable-frequency drives to reduce pump motor speed while still running the system with the valves completely open.
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"Swiss cheese" magnetic alloy morphs shape
A research team from Northwestern and Boise State universities has turned a stubborn alloy into a shape-shifting foam by just giving the material a little breathing room. Created from a nickel-manganese-gallium alloy (Ni-Mn-Ga) that changes shape when exposed to a magnetic field, the new foam could translate to smaller, lighter pumps and more aerodynamic airplane wings.
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Electric Replacement for Hydraulics! Exlar's electric linear actuators deliver the force of hydraulics and the speed of pneumatics. The patented roller screw technology offers peak forces in excess of 40,000 lbf., speeds to 60 in/sec, and stroke lengths to 96 inches, all with the ease and reliability of servo control. Visit Exlar online for more information.

Wheels: What's next in all-wheel drive?
BorgWarner says it's NexTrac, the company's latest all-wheel drive (AWD) system. NexTrac is the newest product from a portfolio created exclusively for FWD/AWD products called the i-Trac series. What makes NexTrac unique is that it combines all the positive attributes of its predecessor (InterActive Torque Management) with new features such as organic friction plates in the primary clutch for even smoother response and lower operating noise throughout its operational lifetime.
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