igus has expanded its gear offering with bevel gears made of its iguform S270 and igutek P360 high-performance plastics. These abrasion-resistant, self-lubricating gears are a lightweight and maintenance-free alternative to traditional metallic gears. Gears are widely used as drive elements in a range of applications, from e-bikes to locking systems to actuators. However, when forces […]
Mechanical PT
How to calculate retaining ring maximum speed (rpm), and when it matters
Selecting an appropriate retaining ring for an application typically involves evaluating factors such as installation stress, the radial load exerted by the ring, and the thrust capacity of the ring. And because the groove that holds the ring is integral to the ring’s performance, groove deformation needs to be considered as well. But when an external […]
Motion system design: How to manage inertia mismatch
One of the most important parameters when sizing a motion system is the inertia of the load being moved. Regardless of the type of motor being used — AC induction, stepper, brushless DC, or AC servo — the ratio of the load inertia to the motor inertia has an important influence on system performance. If the […]
Vibration isolation technique supports spacecraft ground testing
Negative-Stiffness vibration isolation has played an integral role in supporting systems for ground testing and development of spacecraft and components, both inside and outside of vacuum chambers. Steve Varma Operations Manager Minus K Technology Spacecraft ground testing is sensitive to the smallest vibrations, can be caused by a multitude of factors. Every structure is transmitting vibrations from […]
What determines worm gear efficiency, and is it really that low?
Worm gears are often used for their ability to provide very high reduction ratios (and high torque multiplication) in a compact, single-stage design. But traditional thinking says that these benefits come at the expense of efficiency. Here, we’ll look at the factors that determine worm gear efficiency and how to get the benefits they provide […]
How do wave springs eliminate problems associated with traditional coil springs?
Coil springs and wave springs are both types of compression springs, meaning the spring’s force increases as its axial length decreases (as the spring is compressed). But coil springs and wave springs react differently to applied loads, especially in terms of how stresses are created in the material, which in turn, affects their working load […]
Three torque-limiter options compared (and trip torque explained)
Industrial robots, conveyors, wind turbines, machine tools, packaging machines and pumps are just some of the places you’ll find torque limiters. By Lawrence Kren • Contributing writer Torque limiters actuate on the order of milliseconds to prevent overload, shock, and torque spikes that could otherwise damage components or shorten operating life. They also serve in […]
Electromagnetic-actuated clutches engage polyethelene sheet rolls quickly and accurately
Engaging individual polyethylene sheet rolls with no system downtime is accomplished with speed and accuracy using Miki Pulley CSZ Clutches. Continuously operating via servo motor power by way of a V-belt, individual roll spools automatically switch on/off as programmed when engaged by the CSZ clutches. These high-performance clutches function using electro-magnetic force generated by an […]
New robotic cycloidal gearbox from GAM
GAM’s newest GCL cycloidal gearboxes provide high precision and rigidity for horizontal and vertical robotic and motion control applications. The GCL is designed to withstand the frequent start-stop impact loads of industrial robots and other motion control applications with impact resistance five times nominal torque. The GCL series is available in a wide range of […]
New micro brakes for small, precise equipment applications
Fast braking response in small, precision torque applications are the primary benefit of Miki Pulley Micro Brakes. Where high performance braking for small motion control applications are required, these Micro Brakes provide the solution. Miki Pulley’s ultra-compact brake design features a stator with integrated mounting flange, proprietary composite friction liner and armature complete with ring […]
