AutomationDirect has expanded its sensors offering to include wide area sensors for object detection. The new area sensors from Micro Detectors (MD) are multi-beam, through-beam sensors with emitter and receiver elements used for detecting the presence of any object by sensing the light beam intensity returning from the receiver. The area sensors have an IEC […]
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Custom parallel-shaft geared motors and drives from ABM Drives
ABM Drives offers compact parallel-shaft motor and drive designs for small spaces and quiet running requirements. Precision-ground gearing provides for low noise and extended life. Tight-fitting housing covers and flanges prevent distortions that can amplify noise. Aluminum housings absorb harmonics and other vibrations better than cast iron. Typical applications include crane hoist travel drive units; […]
Differences between conventional belting and plastic modular belting for conveying
Plastic modular belting has transformed manufacturing. Understanding the differences between it and synthetic fabric belting can help engineers plan and determine the most suitable conveyor for a given application. By Kate Nadeau | mk North America Conveyors are a part of everyday life. They are seen at the grocery store, in the gym, at the […]
FluxMotor software tool delivers fast visualization of electric motors
Altair now offers FluxMotor , a dedicated platform focusing on the pre-design of electric rotating machines. FluxMotor is part of Altair’s HyperWorks CAE Suite, which includes Flux the leading software for low frequency electromagnetic and thermal simulations. The software tool allows users to design and create machines from standard or customized parts, as well as […]
The Reshoring Initiative launches National Reshoring Award
The Reshoring Initiative, in conjunction with the Precision Metalforming Association (PMA), invites companies that have successfully reshored parts or tooling made primarily by metal forming, fabricating or machining to apply for the first National Reshoring Award. There will be one award for buyers and one award for suppliers. To be eligible for the award, the […]
Dorner expands its international reach with acquisition of Mexico-based Sautem
Dorner Holding Company, the parent company of Dorner Mfg. Corp., has announced the acquisition of Sautem — a leading designer and supplier of process automation equipment in Mexico. Dorner Mfg. Corp. is an industry leader in the design, application, manufacturing and integration of precision industrial and sanitary conveyor systems. The addition of Sautem is the latest […]
Applied Motion Products expands SV200 servo drive offering into DC-powered applications
Applied Motion Products, Inc. has now expanded the SV200 Servo Drive offering with the release of new drives designed for use in DC-powered applications. Existing SV200 servo drives are designed for 120 or 220 VAC operation, while the new DC-powered drives are designed to operate on 24, 48 or higher DC voltages — up to 60 […]
Digitizing 100 years of application expertise: Rexnord launches Digital Productivity Initiative
Rexnord announces DiRXN — pronounced direction — its new digital productivity platform based on the integration of innovative Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and e-commerce technologies with its leading portfolio of tools, products and services. DiRXN directly connects customers to data and information that allows them to optimize productivity across all stages of their lifecycles. This […]
Current state of programmable automation controllers (PACs) for motion
Programmable automation controllers (PACs) excel in commanding complex automation setups that involve PC-based and HMI functions as well as process control (largely because of the way they handle I/O). PACs are also increasingly common in motion applications for machining or handling discrete product thanks to the flexibility and interoperability they offer machine designs. Today’s PACs […]
How are servo system velocity control loops tuned?
Servo systems typically use a combination of three types of control loops: current, velocity, and position. The velocity control loop serves two purposes—it enables the system to respond to changing velocity commands, and it allows the system to resist high-frequency load disturbances. But the velocity loop by itself can’t ensure that the system maintains a […]