Mechanical News

Why not just make it in-house? Laser sintering system produces high-quality components for unmanned aerial vehicles

Northwest UAV Propulsion Systems (NWUAV), an aerospace supplier, has purchased an EOSINT P 390 plastics laser-sintering machine. Northwest is using the equipment to produce high-quality aircraft components, including laser-sintered PA 2201 and PrimePart DC parts for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

NWUAV manufactures complex cylinder head temperature controllers, cylinder head shrouds, and a variety of other parts for UAVs from Insitu, Inc. “Our greatest concern is meeting the tight tolerances and consistent quality that aircraft designs require,” says Chris Harris, president of NWUAV. “The EOSINT P 390 provides us with consistent, uniform, high-quality production parts that eliminate the need for secondary finishing operations such as sanding.”

Unmanned aerial vehicle (top) from Insitu, Inc., features laser-sintered plastic parts that Northwest UAV Propulsion systems manufactures with its EOSINT P 390 plastics laser-sintering machine. [Pictures courtesy of Insitu Inc., Bingen WA, and Northwest UAV Propulsion Systems, McMinnville, OR; EOS]

With assistance and training from EOS technicians, NWUAV was able to go from installation to part production on the P 390 in just 10 days. An essential step in the process was tuning parameters to meet design criteria within 0.001 in.

Previously, NWUAV ordered the parts from an outside vendor and performed sanding and other finishing processes on them. Purchasing the P 390 and manufacturing the parts in-house has reduced the company’s supply chain and infrastructure costs such as part inspection, inventory, and storage. Northwest is now able to supply the components just-in-time and implement design changes within a couple of days versus weeks.

“The use of rapid manufacturing is booming in the aerospace industry,” says Jim Fendrick, vice president of EOS North America. “This growth continues to be driven by the ingenuity and innovation of industry leaders such as Northwest UAV Propulsion Systems.”

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EOS

Mechanical Products

Compact latch provides style, strength, and convenience for smaller enclosures

The addition of a new compact, stainless steel M1-15 latch to the line of Southco M1 push-to-close latches offers a new option for enclosures that demand corrosion-resistant durability in a compact housing to fit smaller profile doors and drawers. Pull-tab actuation and push-to-close latch engagement provide fingertip convenience for opening and closing. And with a 122-lb (545-N) maximum recommended working load rating (higher than most latches of similar size) this latch is designed to deliver robust performance even in mobile applications where the contents of an enclosure can shift and create an impact load on the inside of the door.

Cast stainless steel construction provides a smooth, attractive surface that can stand up to harsh marine environments or repetitive washdown and cleaning cycles in foodservice, medical, or industrial applications. Multiple finish options: polished stainless steel as standard with brushed nickel, satin nickel, diamond brass, or black available upon request.

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Southco

New concealed hinges for large enclosures

This heavy-duty hinge is designed for doors with a 25-mm return flange. It is quick and easy to install either by welding, mechanical attachment, or both. The hinge pin slides for easy door removal, but remains attached to the enclosure by means of an acetal circlip.

In the mild steel version, the door part is phosphatized; this gives good corrosion protection, provides an excellent surface for powder coating, and is suitable for welding. For outdoor applications in corrosive environments (on NEMA 4X or GR 487 boxes, for example) a stainless version is available.

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EMKA

Configurable hub assortment of timing pulleys

MISUMI USA announces a new feature on its family of timing pulleys, offered in a wide variety of materials and sizes, including high-torque versions. The unique feature is the configurable hub offered to suit virtually any shaft hole and flange requirement. Dimensions for the shaft hole and overall hub diameter are configurable in increments of 1 mm, while the hub shoulder height is configurable in increments of 0.5 mm. This development offers engineers many more options in their designs, plus the MISUMI-configured part incurs no tooling or minimum order charge.

These new timing pulleys are offered in several aluminum grades with clear anodize, electroless nickel plating, or hard anodized surface treatment. 1045 carbon steel and low carbon steel versions are also available with black oxide or electroless nickel plating. This entire MISUMI line of timing pulleys is fully RoHS compliant.

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MISUMI

Vi-Cas expands its family of cushion, solid, finned, and drive rollers

Vi-Cas Manufacturing has expanded their line of rollers to include more sizes, varieties, and materials of construction than ever before. The broader line of rollers includes cushion rollers, solid versions, finned, and drives roller designs. The expanded line-up is ideal for virtually any material handling and industrial application. Finned rollers provide a softer grip for more gentle transport, while solid rollers provide an unparalleled service life. Long lasting polyurethane is commonly used, though other materials, including silicone for high-temp applications, are available to suit customer needs.

New rollers are made to customer specifications, or can be reverse-engineered from supplied parts. Vi-Cas also offers a roller reconditioning service.

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Vi-Cas

A totally new technology for fastening sheet metal panels

The 1-035SL Captive-Joiner 9.5 SNAP-LINE offers all the benefits of traditional captive screws plus improved ease-of-use by the end-user, significant reduction in time of installation, and reduction in the risk of damage to sensitive electronic equipment housed inside enclosures. The Captive-Joiner also functions as a slam-to-close latch, requiring just a simple push of the panel against the frame to ensure latching.

The Captive-Joiner incorporates D•SNAP Technology making it quick and easy to install into the panel — reducing installation time up to 90% and giving significant cost savings. SNAP-LINE Captive-Joiners do not require mounting hardware (screw, nuts, or bolts) or tools for installation and can be used in blind applications when access to the back of the panel is restricted. They are ideal for applications under extreme vibration conditions because they will not loosen from the panel.

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Dirak

Gore improves thermal performance of its Direct Air Cooling Filter

The new GORE Cooling Filters improve thermal cooling while reducing both capital and operating costs in wireless base stations, MCPAs, base band units, power cabinets, switching systems, and other outdoor electronic enclosures.

The benefits of using the new GORE Cooling Filter are twofold: improved cooling efficiency and reduced costs. The filter improves thermal cooling approximately 20% by allowing higher airflow through the filter. At the same time, the membrane protects the electronic components by preventing fine contaminants such as dirt, dust, and sand from entering the enclosure. By increasing airflow while reducing potential contaminant damage, the GORE Cooling Filter improves overall reliability of telecommunications infrastructure.

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Gore

Water-soluble oil specifically designed for aluminum

Rustlick Ultracut AL is a high-performance water-soluble oil specifically formulated for aluminum to prevent staining during the machining process. It can be used with all metals, including ferrous, non-ferrous, brass, bronze, and copper, though it is not recommended for use on magnesium.

The biostability of Rustlick Ultracut AL makes it highly resistant to bacteria and fungus, and with proper maintenance it can significantly prolong sump life. Rustlick Ultracut AL contains non-chlorinated EP additives as well as boundary lubricants and creates a light oil barrier that protects the working part and the machine from rust. Rustlick Ultracut AL is also great for environments with hard water problems since it provides strong emulsion stability. Rustlick Ultracut AL is available in 5- or 55-gal containers. It is a light brown viscous fluid in its concentrated form. It can be diluted 10:1 to 40:1 depending on the application.

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ITW Rocol

Automatic press benefits from turret tool system

The PEMSERTER Series 2000 automatic press accommodates a dual-bowl option and QX Turret Tool system to allow quick and efficient changes between anvil tools while installing different types of self-clinching fasteners. Using the second bowl and the turret tool system, two fastener types can be installed in automatic feed mode and two in manual feed mode for steamlined job productivity and quality.

Touch-screen setup for all four stations includes selection of installation force and number of fasteners to be installed per workpiece. Operators are notified by visual and/or audible signal to rotate the turret to the next location or that the job is completed per setup. The CE-certified press offers a 24-in./61-cm throat depth, performs at cycle rates up to 2,750 strokes/hr, and delivers a ram force of 400 lb to 16,000 lb/2.7 kN to 71.2 kN.

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PennEngineering

Visible light-cure adhesive for medical device assembly

For medical bonding, potting, and sealing applications, Henkel Corporation introduces a rapid curing, highly flexible visible light-cure adhesive formulation, Loctite 3974. Curing tack-free in seconds, this new adhesive permanently bonds materials with differing coefficients of thermal expansion (CTE) and easily accommodates substrate expansion and contraction.

Loctite 3974 Light Cure Adhesive is a low-modulus, single-component acrylic adhesive that cures rapidly on exposure to UV or visible light. This adhesive can be used on glass, thermoplastic, and metal assemblies that must withstand extreme thermal cycling and environmental exposure. Loctite 3974 Light Cure Adhesive has a Shore hardness of A70 and an elongation of 100%, making it ideally suited for highly flexible components.

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Henkel

3-ton freestanding custom crane systems

Konecranes Americas introduces the K-Trac line of freestanding custom cranes. K-Trac custom crane systems provide a cost-effective lifting solution designed to customer specifications with lifting capacities up to 3 tons.

The K-Trac crane system can be customized to accommodate design specifications that include runway and bridge length, post and hook height, and the location of electrical input. In addition, every K-Trac is modular, allowing for easy modification and reconfiguration in the field. The K-Trac maximizes the use of limited work areas. The raised bridge end provides maximum lift in restricted spaces such as low ceilings and elevated obstructions.

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Konecranes

400-hp convertible water jet unit

NLB Corp. has introduced the NLB 325 Series convertible water jet units, which operate at up to 400 hp at any of six pressures up to 24,000 psi. The new models — the first NLB convertible quintuplex pumps — have many features and parts in common with the popular NLB 225 Series. This simplifies operation, maintenance, and inventory for water jetters who use NLB 225 units.

Two diesel-powered models are available, each with a low-wear quintuplex pump and a convenient swing-out manifold that makes conversion easy. Model 405 (400 hp) can be converted to run at 8,000 psi, 10,000 psi, 12,000 psi, 15,000 psi, 20,000 psi, and 24,000 psi. Flows range from 25 gpm to 74 gpm. Model 365 (365 hp) can run at 8,000 psi, 10,000 psi, 12,000 psi, 15,000 psi, 20,000 psi, and 24,000 psi. Flows range from 22 gpm to 64 gpm.

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NLB Corp.

Tough tight-bend hose for material handling apps

Parker Hannifin has released its 692 hose line, designed specifically for material handling and over-the-sheave applications. The design and construction of the 692 hose allows for a tighter bend radius compared to other hoses on the market, which saves space in the mast and increases visibility for the operator.

To improve visibility for the lift truck operator, components must be moved or reduced in size. Parker's new 692 hose addresses both concerns. Rated to the tightest bend radius in the industry, the 692 hose enables smaller pulleys to be used in the mast area, freeing up space. With a smaller outside diameter than other hoses, more area is gained in the mast area which improves visibility.

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Parker Hannifin

Most Requested Mechanical Products

1. Mounting shaft collar secures components, adjusts easily

A mounting shaft collar for securing gears, pulleys, sprockets, and related components onto a shaft, while permitting easy adjustability, has been introduced by Stafford Manufacturing. Stafford Accu-Mount Collars have a split design that features one solid, square, and flat side (with four mounting holes for attaching components) and a second side that clamps securely to a shaft and is easy to reposition. Providing a centering hub and rigid mounting method for a variety of drive components, these collars have a smooth bore to protect expensive shafts.

Designed to prevent slippage and vibration while allowing for easy repositioning, Stafford Accu-Mount Collars are machined from steel. They are available in 11 sizes.

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Stafford Manufacturing

2. Tabletop CNC router offers a big product in a small package

A new size CNC router has been added to Techno’s successful LC Series product offering. The new size machine is the Model 3024 LC Series Tabletop CNC Router. This NEW LC Model has a work envelope of 30 in. x 24 in. x 5 in. and is equipped with Techno's closed-loop servo motor drives.

In addition, it comes complete with Techno's Window-based Gcode Interface that is upgradable FREE for the life of the machine. It can be equipped with a variety of spindles and accessories, including automatic tool changer, laser scanner, 4th-axis rotary table, and a variety of clamps.

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Techno, Inc.

3. World’s smallest precision ball bearings

SPB-USA, located in Sarasota, FL, has available the world’s smallest ball bearings manufactured in Japan by Sapporo Precision Inc. under the EZO-SPB brand name.

Each bearing has an inside shaft diameter of just .06 mm or .0236 in. and outside diameter of just 2.5 mm and a width of 1 mm. Each ball, and there are five in each race, is smaller than those found in a ballpoint pen, and each is precision ground to an exacting specification to ensure long life at operating speeds of between 142,000 rpm and 160,000 rpm.

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SPB-USA

4. Duct stays in place, once bent

Flexaust Pliaduct is a 100% rigid, self-supporting PVC duct with a ribbon-lock construction that lets users expand the diameter up to 25% by twisting it, using both hands, to fit nozzles, funnels, or fittings. Ideal for spot cooling applications, this wireless, flame-retardant duct may be reshaped and spliced together without tools and stays in place once bent.

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Flexaust

5. Shaft sealing solution optimizes lubricant retention

SKF low-friction Waveseal shaft-sealing solutions feature a specially molded lip to form a sinusoidal or wave pattern around the shaft surface. This unique pattern enables lubricant to be pumped back to the bearing for optimized lubricant retention while pushing dirt away from the lip/shaft surface (regardless of which way the shaft is turning) to protect against contamination.

The specially designed lip additionally generates 25% to 35% less heat at the contact point (minimizing premature seal failure due to heat checking, blistering, hardening, or lubricant breakdown); generates 20% less friction torque or drag; curbs shaft wear; and provides greater lip lubrication compared with standard lip versions.

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SKF

6. Gel pad vibration isolators for damping performance

A new series of silicone gel pad vibration isolators from Advanced Antivibration Components features superior damping performance. V10Z61MSN Series isolators are designed for light to medium loads from 0.5 kgf to 2 kgf (1.1 lb to 4.4 lb) up to 15 kgf to 50 kgf (33.1 lb/leg to 110.2 lb/leg) per mount.

Their highest damping effect arises when the gel is compressed 10% to 30%. An important feature of these metric mounts is their ability to operate effectively over a very wide temperature range from -40°F to 392°F. They offer excellent chemical resistance and are low in compression set. Performance remains the same even after repeated use. They stay stable with low resonance magnification and have minimal horizontal deflection.

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AAC

7. Updated website from Precision Screw & Bolt

This new website features a more user-friendly design and updated information. A few new features include request forms for quotes and the ability to place fastener orders online. Other areas of the website include information on complete product and engineering data capabilities, literature requests, further resources, as well as a contact form for any additional information or questions. A section titled “Got a Fastener Problem?” allows users to submit requests for help in finding a solution for their specific fastener needs.

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Precision Screw & Bolt

8. Get a handle on high-volume epoxy sealing

Multi-Seals offers an innovative alternative to liquid epoxy for high-volume, high-quality epoxy sealing applications. Uni-form epoxy preforms are one-part epoxy resins that are solid at room temperature. When heated, Uni-forms melt and cure, forming a consistent seal that protects components from dust, moisture, oil, flux, solvents, conformal coatings, and other contaminants.

Close tolerances on preform configurations, consistent pre-mixed ratios of resin to catalyst, and consistent viscosity from beginning to end of batch ensure uniform, high-quality results. Preforms can be dispensed as rapidly as 200 to 600 parts per minute with little or no operator training, and extensive operator experience is not required to produce uniform results. Preforms also eliminate pot-life concerns and costly cleanup procedures. Uni-forms are available in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and materials to accommodate diverse applications.

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Multi-Seals

9. Lifting rings, locking pins, and spring plungers meet DoD requirements

Jergens, Inc. has announced that three of its major product lines can be compliant with Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) 252.225-7014 Alternate 1 Preference for Domestic Specialty Metals. The requirements stipulate that certain specialty metals used in parts supplied to the Department of Defense by a U.S. company be melted in the U.S. or certain qualifying countries.

“We are pleased to offer domestically sourced specialty metal products to the DoD and other customers,” says Jack Schron Jr., Jergens’ president. “Although any item Jergens sells has the potential to be purchased as a DFARS item, we expect the most commonly requested items to be our Kwik-Lok Locking Pins, lifting rings, and spring plungers.”

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Jergens

10. Professional, high-definition 3D printer

3D Systems Corporation launched the ProJet HD3000 3-D Production System, a new, professional, high-definition 3D Printer, at SolidWorks World 2008 in San Diego, CA.

The new 3D Production System is a next-generation 3D printer based on 3D Systems’ patented and proprietary Multi-Jet Modeling (MJM) technology. This high-throughput 3D printer provides best-in-class part quality and accuracy. It also provides the choice of both high-definition and ultra-high-definition build modes in a single system.

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3D Systems