Most linear motion devices have a rotary equivalent, and voice coil actuators are no exception. While the versions depicted in most product images and videos are linear, rotary voice coil actuators fill a need for smooth, arc-shaped motion and torque production with fast response times. But unlike the design relationship between rotary and linear motors, […]
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New Unitronics VFD offerings for motion control — integrate with PLC + HMI products
In keeping with a commitment to centralize and streamline industrial automation and control, Unitronics is announcing a new VFD line. Unitronics, the leading experts in the development and manufacture of integrated PLC + HMI controllers, has launched its own line of variable frequency drives (VFDs). With this launch, the manufacturer can better meet customer demand for […]
What is the Department of Energy’s Integral Horsepower Rule?
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has been regulating energy efficiency for electric motors since 1997, when the Energy Policy Act went into effect, requiring most 1 to 200 hp general-purpose motors to meet NEMA Energy Efficiency standards. Since then, the DOE energy efficiency regulations have evolved, with the Energy Independence and Security Act (EISA) […]
How to kill your favorite variable frequency drive
Though not a complete list, following are some tried-and-true methods some have unintentionally used to destroy variable frequency drives (VFDs). Avoid the following situations to help your VFD live a long and fruitful life. By Paul Avery | Product Training Engineer at Yaskawa America • Drives and Motion Division You once loved your VFD. Shiny […]
Elmo Motion Control at IMTS: Making smart machines smarter
At IMTS 2018, Elmo Motion Control will showcase its new Double Gold Twitter ultra-small servo drive and its Platinum Maestro motion controller, which controls up to 256 axes. These motion products suit the most demanding applications in the era of Industry 4.0. The new Double Gold Twitter is among the smallest STO-certified (IEC 61800-5-2, SIL-3) […]
NORD SK 02040.1 — new gearmotor offering with high-strength aluminum-alloy features
With the new SK 02040.1 the NORD DRIVESYSTEMS range now includes a high performance, light, and versatile helical worm gear unit for myriad applications. Manufacturers across a several industries will benefit from NORD DRIVESYSTEM’s newest helical-worm gear unit. The redesigned two-stage SK 02040.1 is suitable for conveyors in food and beverage, bottling, manufacturing, warehousing and […]
28 mm (1.10 in.) planetary and harmonic gearheads for dc input αSTEP AZ series stepper motors
Oriental Motor now offers new planetary and harmonic gearheads for the AlphaStep AZ Series DC input stepper motor in 28 mm (1.10 in.) frame size. The AlphaStep AZ Series stepper motors are part of the Hybrid Control System and delivers high efficiency and low vibration together with Oriental Motor’s newly developed Mechanical Absolute Sensor for […]
More details on the trend towards Ethernet-based networking protocols
In a recent survey of industry experts, many mentioned Ethernet-based networking protocols overtaking traditional fieldbuses. Recall that industrial communication protocols (including those based on Industrial Ethernet) are messaging systems for automated installations. Some fieldbuses are more reliable than nondeterministic Ethernet offerings, but Ethernet speeds now lead. “Some old bus systems have data rates in the […]
PTDA Foundation endorses Manufacturing Day 2018
Manufacturing Day, scheduled for October 5, 2018, presents an opportunity for power transmission/motion control (PT/MC) distributors to support their manufacturer suppliers and raise their own visibility as an employer within their own communities. PT WORK Force, an initiative of PTDA Foundation to help PT/MC employers with employee recruitment, hiring and retention, has three new volunteer […]
What’s the difference between an EC motor and a BLDC motor?
Deciphering motor terminology can be frustrating, especially when comparing the operation and performance of various motor types. For example, some motors are characterized by their speed (synchronous or asynchronous) while others are characterized by their commutation method (brushed or brushless). And then there’s the issue of whether the motor is operated with AC or DC […]