Compact, flexible Polyactuators

Air Springs Supply has introduced the Firestone 70-P-13 Airomatic Polyactuators for hygiene-sensitive applications in the materials handling, food and packaging industries.

The compact pneumatic actuator stands at 16mm high deflated with a stroke of more than 12.5mm and can exert forces of more than 0.45kN at 3.5 bar.

Fabricated from moulded plastic elements welded together in a sealed unit, the actuators reportedly maintain their full structural integrity, flexibility and shape over extended periods of service.

They can be customised to meet specific sizes and shapes for a wide variety of materials handling and processing applications, including conveyors and require zero maintenance.

Originally designed for the conveyor industry, the actuators assist in conveyor transfer sections and roller brakes, but can be used in almost any application requiring very small pressure and stroke.

When used in gravity conveyor lines, the company says these moulded plastic actuators provide compact installation and trouble-free performance. 

Forward and reverse cleaning solution

Nilfisk have launched the innovative SC350 walk behind cleaning machine which cleans in both forward and reverse motions.

The 37 cm scrub deck is reportedly fully adjustable providing complete traction control and allowing access to confined spaces.

With a low rating of 64dB(A), the unit is ideal for noise sensitive areas and day time cleaning.

The unit incorporates an on board charger as standard making charging as simple as park and plug, Nilfisk says.

It features a small and light 12v optima battery with a one hour run time, 27 kg of brush pressure and a reportedly high vacuum power for drying.

According to the company, all components are immediately accessible without tools making maintenance quick and easy.

Classed as ‘start and go’, the new machine is considered easy to operate with minimal training required. 

Efficient, eco-friendly electro servo pump

THE Techni Waterjet Quantum ESP is said to be a revolutionary concept in waterjet cutting screw; eliminating the need for hydraulic type pumps.

This low carbon footprint pump incorporates a servo motor directly enveloping a high load, precision ball.

The ball screw directly houses the ceramic plungers, which reciprocate back and forth to create the pumping action.

The infinite control of the servo motor and precision of the ball screw, enable extremely accurate control over the output pressure and volume of the water displaced, as well as eliminate pressure spikes when deadheading, the company says.

This control feature reportedly gives operators the ability to program virtually any pressure and flow rate from zero to full capacity, while only using the power displaced at the cutting head.

Each of Techni’s Techjet-X2 premium series machines can map a cutting area with a laser-calibrated digital encoder.

The motion system can deliver position accuracy of 0.0005 inches (0.01mm) and high cutting speeds of up to 1,000ipm or 25metres per minute. 

Cabinet-installed Profinet inverters

NORD Drivesystems has introduced new modular units for cabinet-installed SK 500E inverters for integration into PROFINET environments.

The newest PROFINET box from NORD is cost efficient and connects a large number of inverters to a single bus line.

The technology box supports real-time data transfer and features an integrated ethernet switch, an integrated web server, and a PROFINET status display. Optionally, fiber optic lines are also supported.

The bus module can be mounted either directly on the inverter´s interface unit or separately from the inverter by means of an optional wall mounting kit. The PROFINET bus line is connected to the box via an RJ45 plug connector.

High-visibility beacon light

Banner Engineering’s EZ-LIGHT K50 beacon light is an ideal for applications where high levels of ambient light would normally wash out a standard indicator light.

The K50 is available in perimeter and perimeter plus top view models. With 1- or 2-color light model options, operators can select between multiple LED colors for their desired application. Cabled and Quick Disconnect models are also available.

Featuring rugged, sealed thermoplastic housing rated for IP67 and IP69K, the K50 ensures effective operation in harsh outdoor environments, in addition to indoor environments where dust or water may be present. Operation varies depending on the model, with 12 to 30V dc or 85 to 130V ac (75 to 120V dc). 

 

 

Ultrasonic flaw detector

Russell Fraser Sales (RFS) has released Sonatest’s 2nd generation Sitescan D+ Ultrasonic Flaw Detectors, which feature new technology, including tactile scroll wheel, keypad and new software “Persistence”.

Said to be compact and lightweight, the flaw Detector also features custom menus, advanced thickness logging and 12 hour battery life.

According to RFS, these new technology makes the D+ Series Flaw Detectors are a powerful tool for flaw detection.

Economic pallet wrapper

Australian Warehouse Solutions (AWS) has introduced the new AWS FTL33 Series from Fromm, which is CE approved.

It features a 10,000 cycle warranty which makes the cost of owning the pallet wrapper very low, according to AWS.

However, if capital is an issue, the robust and reliable pallet wrapper can be rent for approximately $7.15 per day. 

Lantek sheet metal folding, cutting software

Lantek has released a new, enhanced version of its Lantek Flex3d software for the design, folding/unfolding, and 3D cutting of tubes, profiles and sheet metal parts.

The software reportedly provides a more flexible solution, capable of being tailored to meet the needs of individual users. 

Lantek Flex3d  V2011 has the power to manage large-scale projects and incorporates advanced 3D design technologies in its architecture, with speed improvements of 300% for CAD data exchange. 

The solution comprises eight modules, enabling the user to carry out integrated design and manufacture with SolidWorks, Autodesk Inventor, Solid Edge, CATIA, Creo Elements/Pro and Siemens NX. It also allows users to automate the programming of laser and waterjet 5-axis sheet metal cutting machines, and design and cut standard profiles using Lantek’s Flex3d Steelwork module.

 

Quick changeovers in new locking system

Kurt’s PinLock system uses a pin assembly to engage and create a locking force with line contact, as opposed to other competitive systems that use point contact.

The system also is interchangeable with competitive ball locking systems and consists of high precision pins, bushings and liners that provide locating repeatability up to ±.0005 inch.

PinLock shanks and bushings are precision machined of heat-treated, alloy steel with a black oxide finish.

PinLock liner bushings are available for fixture plate thickness of 0.75 and 1.00 inch for the 20, 25 and 30 mm sizes. The larger size PinLock liner bushings are available for 0.75, 1.00, 1.50 and 2.00 inch fixture plate thicknesses. Back mount and front mount receiver bushings are available for receiver plate thickness of 0.75 to 2.00 inches.

According to the company, the PinLock system provides manufacturers with a time-proven, one-stop source for building modular workholding as needed for quick changeovers and high repeatability.

Parker releases its TK 130 torque motors

Parker Hannifin released its torque motors, the TK130 models offer precise motion and high dynamic performance.

According to Parker, the TK motors have been designed for use in high-performance applications requiring exceptionally smooth rotation, high positional accuracy and high dynamic performance, such as machine-tool indexing and rotary tables.

The motors are suitable for harsh environments, including wind and water turbines, mixers, pulpers and crushers.

Delivered as kits consisting of separate stator and rotor elements with large inner diameters, the gearless design of TK motors is intended to be directly integrated into the mechanical structure of the machine, according to Parker.  

Pepperl + Fuchs releases its steel ultrasonic sensor

Pepperl + Fuchs released its UMC3000 ultrasonic sensor designed for the food and beverage industry.

The unit includes a stainless steel housing and chemically resistant cable system.

According to the company, two housing concepts solve a variety of applications.

A smooth-barrel, food-grade design meets the stringent standards of the food and beverage industry, while a 30mm diameter threaded model is ideally suited for agricultural machinery and other outdoor installations, according to Pepperl.

Main features include:

• Completely sealed design meets IP 68/69K standards
• Stainless steel sensing face and barrel (Grade: 1.4404 (V4A, AISI 316L)
• Fully adjustable 200 to 3000mm sensing range
• Configurable analog and set-point output models
• Meets EHEDG* «Hygienic Design» guidelines
• *EHEDG = European Hygienic Engineering & Design Group 

Efficiency in separating air pollutants

Reven GmbH has released the new X-Cyclone arrow profile, which will replace the current ‘golf ball profile’.

The new REVEN X-Cyclone arrow profile was developed on state-of-the-art main frames on the basis of the current golf ball profile.

The X-Cyclone filters consist of rectangular elements with a thickness of 50mm.

The air filtering units are said to be particularly suited for the separation of harmful substances from the air including air pollutants in the form of aerosols, mist or vapour (saturated) as well as fine dust.

These particles are conducted together with the transporting medium air into the X-Cyclone separator by forced ventilation (fan).

The collected fluids are returned to the equipment and the working environment reportedly left mist and particle free.

The new X-Cyclone filter is available in stainless steel and aluminum.

Dimac Tooling
03 9561 6155 – sales@dimac.com.au
www.dimac.com.au.

 

 

 

Toyota pedestrian stacker ticks safety boxes

Toyota Material Handling Australia (TMHA) has relaunched its popular Raymond brand RAS-S25 pedestrian stacker range with the emphasis on safety in the warehouse.

The company says the RAS-S25’s manoeuvrability in confined spaces and adjustable legs makes it suitable for storage areas within the food and related industries as well as indoor warehouse environments.

Key safety features of the RAS-S25 stacker include Click-to-Creep, electric brake, hill-start assist/roll-back protection, and the security of password-only operation.

The stacker has a nominal capacity of 1136kg and a 3.6m maximum operating height. Its legs are adjustable from 890mm to 1295mm width, to suit a variety of pallet sizes and operating conditions.

Performance of the RAS-S25 can be customised to suit the individual operator, with adjustable travel speed up to a maximum loaded speed of 5.4km/h and an adjustable acceleration rate.

The RAS-S25 stacker is available with a maintenance-free Champion battery and in-built charger.

Toyota Material Handling
1800 425 438
www.toyotamaterialhandling.com.au

NORD releases its electric motor catalogue

NORD Drivesystems issues its new M7000 electric motor catalogue, which is available in print and online format.

The catalogue provides an overview of asynchronous low-voltage motors manufactured by NORD.

It addresses in detail the implications of the switch to IE2.

According to NORD, the catalogue lists the efficiency requirements in different markets and organised by target regions.

It contains the technical data of NORD’s IE1 and IE2 motors along with a table comparing motor characteristics and type plate illustrations for complete clarity.

IE2 motors from NORD Drivesystems provide at least the efficiency required by ErP 2009/125/EG V0640-2009.

In implementing the new eco-design requirements, NORD has retained the motor sizes to a great extent, thereby facilitating replacements, according to NORD.

The motors are suitable for 50 Hz and 60 Hz operation.

The catalogue is available at www.nord.com.au  

Micro drills big on performance

Dormer’s new Elect APP range of micro drills has been engineered for exceptional performance in small diameter drilling applications in a wide range of materials and components.

Available in two lengths to support drilling depths to 8xD (R530) and 12x D (R531), both feature Dormer’s ACM (Advanced Chip Management) flute geometry.

Smooth and efficient chip evacuation is further facilitated by a micron-thin layer of Dormer’s proprietary Super-Flow coating.

The range features internal coolant holes throughout so that cutting fluid is delivered accurately to the tip of the drill, cooling the cutting area in materials, including stainless steel, aluminium and titanium, the company says.

The point-geometry design helps to reduce thrust forces required to drive the drill through the workpiece, resulting in precise hole tolerance, minimal entry and exit burr and reduced cost per hole.

Engineered products for hole diameters to 15xD are available on request, as are different flute lengths across the entire product range.

Dormer is part of the Sandvik Group.

New portable power in AC welder/generator

Lincoln Electric US has introduced the Bulldog 5500 which has been designed exclusively for AC stick welding.

The Bulldog 5500 provides up to 140 amps of AC welding output for arc welding on steel, stainless steel, cast iron and hardfacing projects with up to 1/8 inch stick electrodes.

 It also includes a single, full-range calibrated welding control that includes operating ranges for 3/32 and 1/8 inch electrodes.
 
The unit delivers 5,500 watts surge (4,000 watts continuous) AC generator power for grinders, work lights or pumps.

The Bulldog 5500 can be used for motor starting or standby emergency power. It can also be used to power Lincoln’s POWER MIG140C compact MIG welder when a welding application calls for wire processes, the company says.

Small, light-weight washdown gearboxes

NORD Drivesystems has previewed a new line of two-stage helical bevel gear units consisting of models in five different sizes with torques between 90 and 660 Nm at the Hannover exhibition this year.

All units feature a high-strength die-cast aluminum gearcase which is designed according to the proven UNICASE principle.

Since the gearcase requires neither an inspection cover nor a screw-on input cover, NORD says the units are especially small and light-weight.

This facilitates handling, and helps reduce energy consumption particularly in applications where drives are moved, the company says.
 
Designed as washdown gearboxes, all external surfaces have been designed with wide radii and without indentations or dead spaces.

The gearboxes are particularly suited for use in conveyor technology. Further applications include hoists, storage facilities and overhead conveyor systems.

NORD Drivesystems (Aust)
03 9394 0500 – au-sales@nord.com
www.nord.com
 

New option to arrest electrical current

Zero-Max’s CD couplings have been designed with composite flex elements that are reportedly non-conductive in addition to their primary function.

In addition to protecting from stray electrical current, the CD couplings protect generators in a system from transferring lower reaction loads to the generator bearings.

The coupling’s composite discs withstand all types of environmental elements, including temperature extremes from -40 to +70°C, and also moisture and chemicals.
 
Additional operating features include: zero backlash, excellent for reversing loads, smooth operation at high speeds, and compact size with a clamping system that fits most applications.

Standard models and sizes include single and double flex models with clamp style hubs with or without keyways. Custom designs are available for unusually large and challenging applications such as wind turbines.

The torque capacities range from 40Nm to 1436Nm and beyond with speed ratings from 4400 RPM to 17,000 RPM. 

Naismith Engineering
03 9489 9811 – marketing@naismith.com.au 
www.zero-max.com

 

Maximum positioning accuracy for precision applications

Aerotech has introduced a series of rotary air-bearing stages designed for high precision angular positioning and velocity stability.

The stages use a slotless, brushless motor that is inherently zero-cogging and torque ripple-free to maximise positioning accuracy. According to the company, the low-profile design reduces effective working height, minimising stack-up errors.

The ABRS stages meet the exacting motion control requirements of semiconductor wafer inspection, high precision metrology, x-ray diffraction, optical inspection and fabrication, and MEMS/nanotechnology device fabrication.

Applications requiring exceptional planar performance will benefit from large air-bearing surfaces that provide high stiffness and load capacity for reduced face error motion, the company says.

A direct coupled, high accuracy rotary encoder achieves resolution of <0.03 arc second and accuracy of ±1 arc second or less when used with the unit’s feedback multipliers and controls.

A clear aperture facilitates product feed-through, laser beam delivery, cable clearance or other application-specific requirements.

Custom versions of the ABRS are available for rate table and inertial guidance test-stand applications.

Lastek
08 8443 8668 – sales@lastek.com.au
www.aerotech.com

Affordable solution for in-the-cabinet distributed I/O

TURCK has introduced BL20 Economy gateways for EtherNet/IP and Modbus TCP which reportedly provide a flexible in-the-cabinet system for distributed I/O.

According to TURCK, the gateways can be paired with a broad range of I/O slices to suit most application’s communications and transparency requirements.

RFID, which is unique to TURCK’s modular I/O systems, can be incorporated to any distributed I/O product by applying the necessary RFID-S slices.

BL20 Economy gateways are equipped with an integrated Ethernet switch that allows a line topology between multiple gateways without using an external switch, eliminating the need for additional cable runs to the PLC.

TURCK’s BL20 Economy gateways accommodate up to 32 I/O modules, resulting in a system that may contain up to 512 digital I/O points or 128 analog I/O points, as well as a combination of digital and analog points, on a single gateway.