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hyperMILL 2024 CAD/CAM software suite

OPEN MIND Technologies has introduced its latest hyperMILL 2024 CAD/CAM software suite, which includes a range of powerful enhancements to its core toolpath capabilities, as well as new functionality for increased NC programming efficiency in applications ranging from 2.5D machining to 5-axis milling. New and enhanced capabilities include: Optimized Deep Hole Drilling, a new algorithm for 3- and 5-axis Rest Machining, an enhanced path layout for the 3D Plane Machining cycle, better error detection, and much more.
Learn more.

One-part epoxy changes from red to clear under UV

Master Bond UV15RCL is a low-viscosity, cationic-type UV-curing system with a special color-changing feature. The red material changes to clear once exposed to UV light, indicating that there is UV light access across the adhesive material. Although this change in color from red to clear does not indicate a full cure, it does confirm that the UV light has reached the polymer. This epoxy is an excellent electrical insulator. UV15RCL adheres well to metals, glass, ceramics, and many plastics, including acrylics and polycarbonates.
Learn more.

SPIROL Press-N-Lok™ Pin for plastic housings

The Press-N-Lok™ Pin was designed to permanently retain two plastic components to each other. As the pin is inserted, the plastic backfills into the area around the two opposing barbs, resulting in maximum retention. Assembly time is quicker, and it requires lower assembly equipment costs compared to screws and adhesives -- just Press-N-Lok™!
Learn more about the new Press-N-Lok™ Pin.

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.

3M and Ansys train engineers on simulating adhesives

Ansys and 3M have created an advanced simulation training program enabling engineers to enhance the design and sustainability of their products when using tapes and adhesives as part of the design. Simulation enables engineers to validate engineering decisions when analyzing advanced polymeric materials -- especially when bonding components made of different materials. Understand the behavior of adhesives under real-world conditions for accurate modeling and design.
Read this informative Ansys blog.

New FATH T-slotted rail components in black from AutomationDirect

Automation-Direct has added a wide assortment of black-colored FATH T-slotted hardware components to match their SureFrame black anodized T-slotted rails, including: cube connectors (2D and 3D) and angle connectors, joining plates of many types, brackets, and pivot joints. Also included are foot consoles, linear bearings in silver and black, cam lever brakes, and L-handle brakes. FATH T-slotted hardware components are easy to install, allow for numerous T-slotted structure configurations, and have a 1-year warranty against defects.
Learn more.

Weird stuff: Moon dust simulant for 3D printing

Crafted from a lunar regolith simulant, Basalt Moon Dust Filamet™ (not a typo) available from The Virtual Foundry closely mirrors the makeup of lunar regolith found in mare regions of the Moon. It enables users with standard fused filament fabrication (FFF) 3D printers to print with unparalleled realism. Try out your ideas before you go for that big space contract, or help your kid get an A on that special science project.
Learn more.

Break the mold with custom injection molding by Rogan

With 90 years of industry experience, Rogan Corporation possesses the expertise to deliver custom injection molding solutions that set businesses apart. As a low-cost, high-volume solution, injection molding is the most widely used plastics manufacturing process. Rogan processes include single-shot, two-shot, overmolding, and assembly. Elevate your parts with secondary operations: drilling and tapping, hot stamping, special finishes, punch press, gluing, painting, and more.
Learn more.

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.

New interactive digital catalog from EXAIR

EXAIR's latest catalog offers readers an incredible source of innovative solutions for common industrial problems like conveying, cooling, cleaning, blowoff, drying, coating, and static buildup. This fully digital and interactive version of Catalog 35 is designed for easy browsing and added accessibility. Customers can view, download, print, and save either the full catalog or specific pages and sections. EXAIR products are designed to conserve compressed air and increase personnel safety in the process. Loaded with useful information.
Check out EXAIR's online catalog.

5 cost-saving design tips for CNC machining

Make sure your parts meet expectations the first time around. Xometry's director of application engineering, Greg Paulsen, presents five expert tips for cutting costs when designing custom CNC machined parts. This video covers corners and radii, designing for deep pockets, thread depths, thin walls, and more. Always excellent info from Paulsen at Xometry.
View the video.

What can you secure with a retaining ring? 20 examples

From the watch dial on your wrist to a wind turbine, no application is too small or too big for a Smalley retaining ring to secure. Light to heavy-duty loads? Carbon steel to exotic materials? No problem. See how retaining rings are used in slip clutches, bike locks, hip replacements, and even the Louvre Pyramid.
See the Smalley design applications.

Load fasteners with integrated RFID

A crane, rope, or chain may be required when something needs lifting -- plus anchoring points on the load. JW Winco offers a wide range of solutions to fasten the load securely, including: lifting eye bolts and rings (with or without rotation), eye rings with ball bearings, threaded lifting pins, shackles, lifting points for welding, and more. Some, such as the GN 581 Safety Swivel Lifting Eye Bolts, even have integrated RFID tags to clearly identify specific lifting points during wear and safety inspections and manage them digitally and without system interruption.
Learn more.

Couplings solve misalignments more precisely with targeted center designs

ALS Couplings from Miki Pulley feature a simplistic, three-piece construction and are available in three different types for more precisely handling parallel, angular, or axial misalignment applications. The key feature of this coupling design is its center element. Each of the three models has a center member that has a unique and durable material and shape. Also called a "spider," the center is designed to address and resolve the type of misalignment targeted. Ideal for unidirectional continuous movement or rapid bidirectional motion.
Learn more.

What is 3D-MID? Molded parts with integrated electronics from HARTING

3D-MID (three-dimensional mechatronic integrated devices) technology combines electronic and mechanical functionalities into a single, 3D component. It replaces the traditional printed circuit board and opens up many new opportunities. It takes injection-molded parts and uses laser-direct structuring to etch areas of conductor structures, which are filled with a copper plating process to create very precise electronic circuits. HARTING, the technology's developer, says it's "Like a PCB, but 3D." Tons of possibilities.
View the video.

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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