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SPEE3D develops ultra-corrosion-resistant alloy
-- a game-changer for maritime additive manufacturing

Australian manufacturer SPEE3D has developed two grades of an ultra-corrosion-resistant Nickel Aluminum Bronze alloy that are compatible with its Cold Spray Additive Manufacturing technology. The powder material is a game-changer for maritime OEMs and the U.S. Navy, as it will help with supply chain delays and keep critical maritime systems operational.
Read the full article.

Achieve higher loads with a round wire Wave Spring

Wavo Springs are produced from round-section wire to provide higher loads while maintaining the accurate loading found in wave springs. As an alternative to Belleville Springs, the Wavo provides similar loads but with an accurate, predictable spring rate. Available in carbon and stainless steel from stock, sizes range from 1/2" to 6" diameters. Free samples are also available!
Learn more.

Conveying and guiding: One-stop shop for components

JW Winco has expanded its range of conveying and guiding components with additional practical elements designed for common industrial applications, providing everything needed -- from guides and rails to brackets and feet -- for constructing unmotorized conveyor lines using standard parts.
Read the full article.

Why hybrid bearings are becoming the new industry standard

A combination of steel outer and inner rings with ceramic balls or rollers is giving hybrid bearings unique properties, making them suitable for use in a wide range of modern applications. SKF hybrid bearings make use of silicon nitride (twice as hard as bearing steel) rolling elements and are available as ball bearings, cylindrical roller bearings, and in custom designs. From electric erosion prevention to friction reduction and extended maintenance intervals, learn all about next-gen hybrid bearings.
Read the SKF technical article.

What are carbon composite bellows springs?

The Carbon Composite Bellows Spring (CCBS) from MW Components is a system of carbon fiber elements that combine to work as a high-performance, lightweight, and design-flexible compression spring meant to replace coil springs or metallic Belleville disc springs. A functional spring is made from several individual elements paired and joined to make a stack. The stack spring rate is determined by the number of elements, the base rate of each element, and their series or parallel orientation in the stack. Applications include motorsports, aerospace, and high-performance activities.
Learn more.

Bellows couplings for robotics

Ruland bellows couplings are ideal for precision motion in robotic applications due to their zero-backlash design, high torque and torsional stiffness, and various styles that ensure accurate movement and smooth operation. These lightweight couplings are commonly used in industrial, medical, and autonomous robotic systems requiring high speed and accuracy. They have reduced vibrations at speeds up to 10,000 rpm and can accommodate all forms of misalignment, making them highly versatile for different applications.
Learn more.

Structural adhesive bonding 101

Learn how LORD structural adhesives are eliminating rivets, welds, and mechanical fasteners to enable lower-cost assembly. Listen to Angela Zambanini as she describes Parker LORD's acrylic, epoxy, and urethane adhesives and the best applications for each adhesive category.
View the video.

World first: Industrial 3D printer makes metal or advanced composite parts

Markforged Holding Corporation has unveiled the FX10 Metal Kit, a print engine that brings metal-printing capability to the FX10 machine system. With this kit, the FX10 becomes the world's first industrial 3D printer that can be switched to print with metal filaments or composites.
Read the full article.

World's first current-carrying fastening technology

PEM^® eConnect™ current-carrying pins from Penn-Engineering provide superior electrical connections in applications that demand high performance from internal components, such as automotive electronics. This first-to-market tech provides repeatable, consistent electrical joints and superior installation unmatched by traditional fastening methods. Features include quick and secure automated installation, no hot spots or poor conductivity, and captivation options that include self-clinching and broaching styles.
Learn more about eConnect pins.

Retaining magnets from JW Winco: Universal and clever

JW Winco has expanded its magnet line to support more applications with new materials, shapes, systems, and even raw magnets. Learn about their latest offerings, including retaining magnets designed for corrosive environments (GN 50.8), encapsulated magnets designed for sensitive or painted surfaces (GN 51.8), handle magnets (GN 53.3), and powerful magnets designed to handle challenging environs (GN 52.6).
Learn more.

New polymer bearings are PFAS- and PTFE-free

igus has developed a new polymer bearing material called iglide JPF that is free of both per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). This innovation marks an important step in the company's efforts to create sustainable alternatives to conventional plain bearings. JPF is a dry-running, wear-resistant polymer that offers comparable friction and wear performance to iglide J. It delivers high wear resistance and durability.
Learn more.

New high-speed PSLA 270 printer from 3D Systems

The all-new PSLA 270 projector-based polymer 3D-printing platform and associated new materials from 3D Systems enable faster production times for a wide range of applications. This machine's high throughput and accuracy make it ideal for industries like healthcare, aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing, where precise and durable components are critical. Complementary Wash and Cure systems streamline post-processing and ensure high-quality finished parts.
Learn more including materials and build sizes.

New slim and ergonomic compression latch

Southco has launched the E3 Compact MIM compression latch, bringing new ergonomic and safety features to its durable family of latches in a low-profile package. The E3 Compact MIM compression latch is metal injection molded and has a shorter head (4 mm vs. the normal 6.4 mm), 180-degree ergonomic actuation, and visual indicators machined into the latch and color coded to easily show when it is open or closed. Features a sleek, low-profile, polished look.
Learn more.

Optimizing seal selection: From O-rings to press-in-place

What is the right seal for my application? The Sealing & Shielding Team at Parker Hannifin is looking to help you out in this blog. Learn some basics and possible modifications, including application and manufacturing considerations, gland options, mating hardware, and more. They are always very helpful over there at Parker.
Read the Parker blog.

Adjustable Spot Cooler provides precise industrial cooling

EXAIR's Adjustable Spot Cooler System offers a low-cost, reliable, and maintenance-free solution for industrial spot cooling needs. This tool offers precision control, versatility, and ease of use for a variety of applications including milling, machining, soldering, gas sampling, welding, and more. Utilizing cool and clean compressed air, the Spot Cooler allows users to precisely adjust temperatures from as low as -30°F (-34°C) to room temperature with the simple turn of a knob.
Learn more.

In Europe, tire purchasing decision increasingly influenced by EU Tire Label

New data reveals that more than two out of three consumers who bought tires in 2013 were influenced by the EU Tire Label.

According to research carried out by IPSOS MarketQuest across six European markets on behalf of Goodyear Dunlop, 71 percent of those tire buyers who were already aware of the label utilized its gradings on three performance criteria before making their purchase. Data also showed that over half (54 percent), of tire dealers across Europe use the label as a useful tool when selling tires.

The EU Tire Label also has an increasing influence on the purchasing decisions of European commercial vehicle fleets. The results of a survey conducted by MV2 Conseil on behalf of Goodyear Dunlop, involving around 500 fleets in France, Germany, Italy, Poland, and Spain, show the importance of labeling, with just over half of the fleets (54 percent) saying that it influences their tire choice and two-thirds (66 percent) putting fuel efficiency as the most important criterion on the label.

These survey results were announced at a roundtable debate in Brussels, Belgium, Oct. 17. The event was hosted by Goodyear Dunlop to bring together key stakeholders and industry experts to discuss the progress of the label, as the legislation approaches its first anniversary. The EU Tire Label, which is mandatory for all tires sold in Europe, grades passenger car tires and truck tires on three factors: rolling resistance, wet grip, and external noise levels. The legislation came into force in November 2012.

Speaking at the event, Goodyear EMEA president Arthur de Bok presented the first significant statistical insights on the label's influence and highlighted the label's limitations.

He said: "It is encouraging to see so many consumers and professional tire purchasers using the EU Tire Label as a reference point when purchasing tires. The EU Tire Label, with its information on three criteria, raises awareness of the important role tires play in the vehicle's performance.

"We are doing extremely well with the Tire Label and have a portfolio of outstanding grades. But whilst the label is a good starting point, there are also many other important factors that tire purchasers should take into consideration. For example, even the best-performing winter tires score relatively low on the Tire Label, since they have been optimized to operate effectively at cold temperatures and on snow and ice. By comparison, we as a premium tire manufacturer develop tires analyzing over 50 criteria -- not only the three on the Tire Label."

Michael Staude, general manager of tires and wheels for the independent certification company TUV SUD Automotive, emphasized the need for effective local enforcement systems across the European member states. He said: "Long-term, the legislation can only be successful and credible in the eyes of consumers and dealers if all tires sold within, and imported into, the European Union fully comply with the legislation."

Malcolm Harbour, member of the European Parliament and chairman of the Internal Market and Consumer Protection Committee, who played an integral role in the adoption of the EU Tire Label legislation, reinforced the importance of the label in helping to improve both the safety of drivers and the protection of the environment: "The EU Tire Label was introduced as a big package of safety and environmental measures for passenger and commercial vehicles across Europe," he said. "Tires are probably one of the more difficult things for consumers to buy, so they need much clearer and impartial information. You can only give consumers a certain amount of info; you do not want to overload them. Therefore, we focused on clear criteria that enabled consumers to make an informed choice."

The Goodyear Dunlop research shows that for passenger car drivers, wet grip is the most important rating, with 52 percent putting that in their top-three items for consideration when purchasing new tires. The fuel efficiency that comes with a better rolling resistance figured in 47 percent of consumer needs, while exterior noise was present in 41 percent.

Also speaking at the roundtable debate were Electrolux vice president for Environmental and European Affairs, Viktor Sundberg, who shared experiences from the labeling scheme in the white-goods industry; FIA mobility officer Luca Pascotto, who stressed the importance of road safety; and Goran Zubanovic, who leads Goodyear Dunlop's European retail chains Premio and Vulco and gave the perspective from tire dealers.

There is small chance that the tire-labeling effort will make it to the U.S. as an industry standard anytime soon, given that it would most likely take a federal mandate.

Source: Goodyear Dunlop

Published October 2013

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