Schneider Electric’s new Lexium Motion Modules (LMM) are ultra-compact, programmable motion controllers. LMM delivers many features of Lexium MDrive integrated motors, but in an extremely compact size. Lexium Motion Modules are programmed via MCode, also used in MDrive products. This shared platform can fast track motion concepts to market: speeding proof-of-concept, reducing risk and expediting […]
Thomson expands web-based gearhead sizing, selection tool
Thomson Industries, Inc. has expanded its web-based sizing and selection tool for Micron® TRUE Planetary™ Gearheads. The web-based MicronMOTIONEERING® is an application-based sizing and selection tool that quickly and easily identifies the correct planetary gearhead for an application. The improved MicronMOTIONEERING interface and expanded product offering allows users to save time and boost confidence in […]
Application demands drive belt and pulley design
Miles Budimir Senior Editor A tried and true power transmission technique is the traditional belt and pulley system. They’re used in many applications, from automotive uses to agricultural equipment, to factory floor applications for driving all kinds of machinery. And while the basic physics hasn’t changed much, innovations in materials and design have allowed belts and […]
Standalone motion controller in small package from Kollmorgen
Kollmorgen’s new Programmable Controller Multi-axis Master (PCMM) is a powerful new motion controller that meets a broad range of OEM requirements for a wide range of machines. The PCMM delivers complete PLC and motion control functionality in a compact, easy-to-use controller. Integrated programming, configuration screens, and diagnostics in a single software package simplify and minimize […]
Gearmotors: continued integration, end-user demands drive gearmotor advances
Miles Budimir Senior Editor Gearmotors, a well-established technology, are motors designed with an integrated gear reducer. Gearmotors are most common in applications that need a lot of force to move heavy objects. Most industrial gearmotors incorporate fixed-speed ac motors. However, some gearmotors use dc motors, which are common in automotive applications. Gearmotors continue to improve. In […]
Brother Gearmotors launches new website
Brother Gearmotors, a division of Brother International Corporation, has launched a new interactive website at http://www.brother-usa.com/GearMotors. The new site provides visitors with a clean, user-friendly interface, making it easy for them to learn about products and browse information based on their needs. The visually appealing website provides information under tabs dedicated to Industries, Products, Applications […]
New variable speed drives from Schneider Electric improve machine performance
Schneider Electric’s new Altivar 320 Machine Drive is part of the new Altivar Machine range. The Altivar 320 offers a powerful combination of safety, reliability and simplicity with numerous out-of-the-box features for building more effective machines at optimized build costs. Available in compact and book form factors for simplified installation and efficient space use, it […]
Robots and end effectors: from heavy duty to human scale
Miles Budimir Senior Editor Robotics is hot. Manufacturers in the business know this, and others are catching on. From investors to companies using more robots on the manufacturing floor, to consumers snapping up robots to do mundane house chores, robots are here to stay. Industrial robots in particular are finding their way into new applications. And […]
Encoder diagnostics tool for mobile use from HEIDENHAIN
HEIDENHAIN’s next generation testing device, the PWT 100 encoder diagnostic tool, is a compact standalone device used for checking the function and adjustment of HEIDENHAIN encoders, and is ideal for mobile use. The new PWT 100 incorporates a 4.3-in. touchscreen used for display and operation, along with supporting multiple serial interfaces such as EnDat 2.2, […]
Eaton VFDs keep North Carolina town’s water flowing
A custom variable frequency drive (VFD) from Eaton was recently installed at the Town of Mooresville’s Water Treatment Plant in Mooresville, North Carolina. The VFD fits within the plant’s space constraints and has been keeping its 800-hp pumps moving efficiently. To avoid redundancy between the town’s new and old plants, and to maintain usability of […]