Conveyor System

Conveyor Structures Marvelous Blueprint

2010-07-27T13:31:00.001-07:00

When you would want to buy an ice cream, you are troubled with so many options. Of course, all sorts are great but would you like it coned, shaken or cupped? Which flavor is the best? Are the ones with toppings better than those without? In the same way, you are also troubled when you kook for a job. What job suits you? There is an array of job opportunities but what would each of them lead you to? In whatever situation, you always have to choose correctly, ant this is a hard job. The choices we make may cause us regret. Therefore, one must have to think of his needs, desires and evaluations before making a verdict.

One industry that is certainly not exempt from the roads of life is the conveyor business. As vibrant and variable as life itself, the conveyor industry is full of possibilities. When determining what type of conveyor to design, build and purchase, it is crucial to investigate all available angles. There are so many conveyor routes to explore that taking your time in selection and conducting qualified research is more of a mandate then a preference. For those needing to build a conveyor system it is highly recommended to review every type of conveyor on the market and choose the one that fits your application. Here we will go over some of the more basic conveyor set ups as well as some of the more obscure.

Different choices on the type of the conveyors are available to fit different needs across different companies. The common types of conveyors known to almost everyone are gravity, belt and line rollers. Gravity conveyors are practical in that they do not need much motorized system for their operation since they run based on Physics. Belt conveyors give strangely shaped objects a smooth area to be transported through. There are also other types which are more simple, including screws, tows, trolleys and inclines.

When handling troubles with transporting objects in height, incline conveyors are a good choice. Accumulation conveyors, on the other hand, make us see the advantages of using machines that strictly follow programs set at hand. But if it is seen that the company's needs become tougher, there are systems readily available to cope with that.

They say that the classics are always preferable. However, there are situations that call for designs that are more sophisticated so works are properly managed. There are many people, intelligent ones who try their best to find the answers to these problems. For example, if needs get tougher, there are the pneumatic, vibrating, vertical reciprocating, special build, in-line and enclosed conveyors on the rescue. Since different companies have encountered problems such as multi-level work platforms, more then one building story, balconies and basements, experts have come up with solutions involving concepts such as vertical reciprocation.

When desires reach untested heights, special build conveyors are usually the route to take as each one is specifically made for each individual circumstance. When certain situations have not been encountered, special arrangements need to be made. Regardless of your tastes, preferences or obligations, there should be a system to fit your needs.

Conveyors are like life, they are versatile and adjustable. We just have to plan everything properly and are troubles are solved. Each problem can be countered with a perfect solution. We just have to keep ourselves abreast of the trends and possibilities and opportunities knock on our door!

Visit Wilkie Brothers Conveyors for more information on conveyors or to order Frost Replacement Parts, Jervis Webb Replacement Parts or any other related replacement parts.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Paul_Timmerman

Belt Conveyor Systems Top Benefits For Installing One

2010-07-27T13:30:00.000-07:00

There are many places that enjoy the benefits of using belt conveyor systems. They provide mechanized movement of material in different applications such as farms, ware houses, freight handling companies, airports and industries that handle raw materials. The system is a mechanical device that is made of a continuous belt that moves materials from one point to another.

Belt conveyor systems are made from a wide variety of materials to suit different applications. These vary from fabric, rubber, plastic, leather and even metal.

To allow the belt to have continuous motion, they are driven by a roll which is operated by power. This is installed underneath the belt and positioned at one end of the conveyor. As it moves, it forms a continuous loop. There are different types of supports, these depend on the type of material to be moved on the conveyor belt.

For heavy loads, it is supported at both sides of the roller. Metal slider pans are commonly used for light loads. This works by preventing frictional drag on the conveyor belt. Also depending on the application, constant or variable speed motors are used to provide power to the system. The speed is normally set or adjusted using gears.

Both large and small industries need an efficient method of moving goods from one point to another. Raw materials, parts and products can be transported as it is required. These machine are not only efficient, but they can handle large quantities of work at all times. This helps such applications save costs as opposed to using human labor to handle the such tasks.

Another benefit of using such systems is that they are flexible. They can be used in very many and different applications too. If a company has a production line, then investing in this type of machine is ideal. With regular and proper maintenance, they can provide effective and efficient service for a long durations.

They are useful to industries that involve often dangerous and labor intensive tasks. Mining companies can invest in an aggregate belt conveyor which can be used to transport heavy loads from one point to another. Such systems are also designed with impact beds which absorb the force off the loads thus making them function better.

There are industries that produce large volumes of products. In such cases, using human labor would negatively affect their production. Some applications use systems which are designed with side guards to prevent spillages or to keep products from tumbling over. This means that they can be customized to fit in different work environments.

Another use of belt conveyor systems is in the metal industries. They use systems with magnetized belts which help in transporting parts of metal and scrap metals. There are belts that are designed with steel belts, these come in handy in moving hot parts or products. Food industries and processing plants make use of sanitized belts to make their functions more efficient and cost effective.

For more information on Foods Conveyor and rollers conveyor please visit Gough & Co (Engineering) Ltd.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Carolyn_Clayton

Dematic’s conveyor system offers flexibility at PFSweb

2009-10-23T03:39:00.002-07:00

As PFSweb operates with more than 2.5 million square feet of world-class distribution infrastructure, it needs to possess flexibility to flex and adjust its material handling and logistics solutions, while ensuring optimal performance for its clients. The company incorporates some of the most flexible and efficient material handling equipment available to DC managers.

One such material handling equipment which the company prides itself on, is the variable-speed modular conveyor system from Dematic Corp, the world’s leading supplier of logistics automation solutions, systems and service.

This conveyor system can convey toys of widely divergent weights and sizes on the same conveyor, ideal for the DC’s product line. The major advantage provided by this system is flexibility and modularity as the modular conveyor units can be unbolted from the floor and moved to fit a new process, if PFSweb needs changes.In the past, when we put a big conveyor system in, it was hard to change it or modify it for our changing business needs,” says the company adding, “This system was engineered to be extremely modular.”

The system is different from traditional conveyors as each conveyor section has its own control logic and internal wiring. These controls give the individual sections of the conveyor the ability to speed up or slow down. The Dematic variable-speed modular conveyor system also maintains user-selectable gapping between conveyable items. Without changing hardware, PSFweb operators can select a desired gap for maximum buffer, for sorting, or for proper pitch prior to an in-line scale. Operators can also select the speed from 70 feet-per-minute up to 400 feet-per-minute.

It also has the functionality to automatically turn itself off when it is not needed. Compared to conventional conveyor systems, it reduces power consumption up to 30 percent.

http://www.materialhandlingblog.com/2009/10/dematics-conveyor-system-offers-flexibility-at-pfsweb/

Prestigious safety award goes to SLC maker of baggage handling systems

2009-10-23T03:39:00.001-07:00

When the recession hit, The Horsley Co. did not cut corners on safety at the Salt Lake City plant where it makes intricate baggage-handling systems for airports, including the Delta Airlines' and international terminals at Salt Lake City International Airport.

Instead, the company increased its safety budget and set its sights on receiving SHARP (Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program) certification from the Utah Occupational Safety and Health Administration (Utah OSHA), a status earned by only four other Utah firms. It is only one of 2,000 U.S. firms, out of almost 7 million nationwide, to achieve SHARP status.

Formal recognition of that achievement was marked Tuesday in a ceremony at the company's plant, 1630 S. 4800 West. Employees and invited government dignitaries celebrated the award presentation with a luncheon in a spanking-clean warehouse studded with multilevel storage shelves holding heavy-duty conveyor belt sections or all the parts that go into them.

One broad aisle between two parallel shelves contained, neatly stacked on pallets, an array of electrical panels that can be programmed to operate a fully assembled baggage-handling system to fit an airport's specific needs. Another aisle was packed with sections of conveyor belt waiting to be shipped to Jackson Hole airport, individual sections marked with letter codes showing whether they were to be installed near the ticket counter, the baggage carousel or hidden from public view in the expansive area between check in and take off.

"Many companies made huge cuts to maintain market share and continue in business. For some, safety was an easy place to make short-term cuts," said Michael O'Connor, The Horsley Co.'s vice president. But perceiving that approach as "short-sighted," his company contacted Utah's OSHA division for assistance and in just six months, developed policies and implemented practices that met seven standards set up by the Utah Labor Commission agency.

"You made our job very easy," said safety and health consultant James Johnston, noting the agency rarely is invited in at the ground level to help build a safe workplace.

Johnston and colleague Kirk March oversaw the certification effort organized by The Horsley Co.'s Tenille Whitten and Jannette Rodriguez, safety manager of Five Star Airport Alliance. The alliance is a five-company coalition, including The Horsley Co., that is the only American group that can provide all of the services and equipment needed to move baggage at airports and cruise ship ports.

"The safety culture was always here," Johnston added, applauding the company's 60 employees for embracing the safety measures. "You spend a lot of time here. You look after each other."

Companies where co-workers care for one another invariably are successful, Utah Labor Commissioner Sherrie Hayashi said. "The best benefit is you know you have a company that stands behind you... wants you to go home safely each and every night."

Paul Shaffer, The Horsley Co.'s chief financial officer, said policies governing fork lift operation and the proper storage of equipment on shelving, and others recognizing the inherent dangers of using welding equipment and power tools, enabled his company to achieve the designation.

FreightScan To Debut New FS100P Automated Dimensioning System at Air Cargo Americas 2009 Show

2009-10-23T03:36:00.000-07:00

Carlsbad, California, October 20, 2009 – FreightScan, LLC, a leader in the development and deployment of innovative technology solutions for the freight and logistics industry, will debut its newly developed FS100P automated dimensioning system for cargo scanning at the Air Cargo Americas 2009 show to be held November 4-6 at the Doubletree Miami Mart Hotel & Convention Center in Miami, Florida.

The FS100P, a part of the FS100 family of cargo scanning products, is intended for use by small cargo and package operations that need to capture dimensions and images of cargo in a smaller scan area in one second’s time. FreightScan will be providing live product demonstrations of the latest member of the FS100 family of dimensioning products in Booth #728.

"We are very pleased to debut our latest scanning product at the Air Cargo Americas Show," said André Johnson, CEO of FreightScan. "In speaking with customers around the globe, we have found an increasing need for this specific kind of small cargo dimensioning product. The original idea for the FS100P was conceived during time we spent in Latin America working with cargo hubs that specialize in flower boxes. This industry segment accepts thousands of boxes a day during peak shipping seasons, often within very tight processing areas. This unique market, as well as others, requires a viable dimensioning system mounted over a narrow roller conveyor that is capable of scanning cargo in one second in order to avoid interfering with the demanding workflow process."

As a result of its findings, FreightScan committed to developing a solution for cargo facilities that require a shorter scan time to dimension cargo due to heavy volume, or have a limited scan area size. In either case, the FS100P provides a solution that complements the FS100. Now cargo companies can mix and match the hardware based on the needs of each individual facility, thereby ensuring a standardized method for automating the collection of accurate dimensions.

The FS100P provides the same basic functionality as the original FS100 dimensioning system, but with a more targeted market in mind. The FS100 currently dimensions cargo in a scan area up to 10 feet by 10 feet, to serve the freighter, carrier and oversized cargo markets. The FS100P is designed to dimension cargo in a scan area of up to four feet by four feet with smaller cargo units, including skids, individual pieces, parcels, and conveyable freight. Like the FS100, the FS100P is driven by DimPro 2.0, FreightScan’s proprietary software that enables customers to capture, record, display and transfer dimensions and images associated with shipment waybills.

ABOUT FREIGHTSCAN
FreightScan, LLC is a leader in the development and deployment of innovative technology solutions for the freight and logistics industry. Its groundbreaking automated dimensioning systems include the FreightScan FS100, an overhead scanner, and the FL1000, the world’s first forklift-mounted scanner.

Utilizing revolutionary D.I.M.M. Tech™ (Defined Imaging and Multiple Measurement Technology), the FS100 and FL1000 have the capability to scan cargo in all configurations within seconds, providing companies with the ability to maximize warehouse resources, establish accurate billings and significantly improve revenues and profit performance. FreightScan has also recently introduced CargoVizion™, a cargo screening system that provides non-radiation technology for detecting and locating potential threat objects and materials. Logistics industry segments it serves include air freight, ground freight, rail freight, sea freight, multimodal transportation and container logistics. For more information, please visit: www.freightscancargo.com.

http://www.joc.com/node/414105

Curved Conveyor Belts

2008-08-22T02:53:00.003-07:00

Conveyor belts, also known as belt conveyors, are endless loops of a material mostly used for transportation of objects from one location to another. Conveyor belts are generally classified into curved and straight conveyor belts.

A curved conveyor belt, as the name conveys, is curved in shape. When compared with straight conveyor belts, curved conveyor belts have many advantages. Curved conveyor belts can smoothly run through any kind of curve with a very good track-holding. Most of the curved conveyor belts come with a curve shape of 45, 90, or 180 degrees. The belts in curved conveyors are generally constructed in flexible mode. Thus, curved conveyor belts are widely used for agricultural and industrial purposes, but mainly in heavy industries to carry large machineries and articles.

Curved conveyor belts are broadly categorized into vertical and horizontal conveyor belts. Vertical curved conveyor belts are more popular. Mostly, vertical curved conveyor belts are held between two cases, and are basically used for bulk material or unit carrying applications. Horizontal curved conveyor belts are usually built on the platform that conveys, and used for the transportation of heavy materials.

Curved conveyor belts can be adjusted, depending on the application. The materials used for the construction of curved conveyor belts are selected, based on their application. Cotton, canvas, PVC, rubber, silicone, and tough and strong materials including steel and stainless steel are used. Stainless steel curved conveyor belts are the most popular. Strong metal curved conveyor belts are used to convey heavy material. Cotton, canvas, and rubber curved conveyor belts are generally used for the transportation of light weight material such as food and paper products.

Curved conveyor belts are often custom designed and available in different styles and widths. Flat belts, v-belts, magnetic belts, trough belts and rubber conveyor belts are commonly available styles.

Some of the leading manufacturers of curved conveyor belts are Cambelt International Corporation, BASSCO- a division of ASGCO, and Yokohama Rubber. Among them, Yokohama Rubber in Japan is one of the premium companies to develop steel-cord conveyor belts for long distance applications. The company also holds the world record for the longest curved conveyor belt, with a length of 11,103 meters. Most curve conveyor belt companies have online facilities. They also provide full maintenance and services, from consultancy on the right choice to the proper working of curved conveyor belts.

Conveyor Belts provides detailed information on Conveyor Belts, Plastic Conveyor Belts, Wire Mesh Conveyor Belts, Rubber Conveyor Belts and more. Conveyor Belts is affiliated with Fiber Optic Connectors.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marcus_Peterson

Conveyor Lubrication - Effective Way for Preventative Maintenance of Industrial Equipment

2008-08-22T02:53:00.002-07:00

Preventive Maintenance is the name of the game

Today the corporate world is driven by much more precise and better business models. There is no room for complacency at all. A company that lags behind will obviously lose the race. So there is an increased demand for better and faster production, reduced downtime, and incorporation of technology into each and every aspect of production to maximize its potential.

Conveyor belts are often subject to all kinds of damage. At times they are clogged by foreign particles and manual cleaning is too tedious and too time consuming. It’s during such times that conveyor lubrication can prove beneficial. Lubrication is available for almost all kinds of conveyors which include I-Beam, Enclosed Track, Power and Free, Round Tube, Inverted etc.

With proper conveyor lubrication you can always avoid the need for a manual clean up. Preventive maintenance is the new mantra of the corporate world and this is one of its prime examples. Today it is not that tough to find conveyor lubrication equipment.

There are several websites that are dedicated to these equipments. These websites specialize in not just conveyor lubrication or conveyor lubrication equipment. They also have a complete conveyor monitoring system which will give you real time updates on the status of the conveyor belt. Now that really makes the job far easier than it ever was. Now you can have information like Air pressure, chain speed, lubricant levels and chain wear delivered in real time to your desktop.

You can also program the software to initiate automatic conveyor lubrication if the levels decline below the supported level. If you are heading a production unit then you simply cannot afford to do without this kind of equipment with you. So what are you waiting for? Log on to the internet today and check out some of the great sites offering conveyor lubrication.

For more info visit : Conveyor Lubrication

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rama_Krishna

Rama Krishna - EzineArticles Expert Author

The Perfect Conveyor Monitoring System

2008-08-22T02:53:00.001-07:00

When it comes to preventive maintenance for your conveyor belt system, then apart from a conveyor belt lubricating system, you also need a conveyor monitoring system.

conveyor monitoring system

A conveyor monitoring system will combine predictive maintenance with preventive measures to give you maximum effectiveness and minimum downtime on your conveyor belt system.

Have you ever calculated how much even a minute of downtime can really cost you? If you haven't then it is time you did it. It will prompt you to invest in a quality conveyor monitoring system.

Today, there are several companies that offer monitoring systems. But which one of the lot is most suited for you?

Features to look for

Most conveyor monitoring systems will provide you with real time information about chain speed, drive amps, drive hours, air take up pressure, chain wear etc.

However, it will definitely help you if the system uses a graphical interface rather than a purely technical one. For example, if you can see chain wears in a standard graphical interface of every ten foot section or even link by link, then it would be a great advantage.

Look for parameter alarm and mail notification systems which notify you before the problem occurs.

Another feature that most people want in their conveyor monitoring system is the chain wear indicator. Just as a particular section starts to get worn out, it will indicate you so that it can be replaced before it fails completely.

The price factor

While a quality conveyor monitoring system when combined with a lubrication system might cost you in the start, this cost will be totally justified in the long run.

You will save up considerably on downtime costs and even on replacing links of chains rather than huge sections of the belt.

For more info visit : Conveyor Monitoring System

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rama_Krishna

Rama Krishna - EzineArticles Expert Author

Reclaim Conveyors offer alternative to loaders and hoppers

2008-02-15T04:01:00.000-08:00

Available as portable or stationary units, Tunnel Reclaim Conveyors are manufactured in steel and come in rounded or rectangular box designs. Units can be accompanied by 8 or 10 ft domes, engineered with stress/shedding design. Applications include primary plant feed, wash plant feed, truck loadout, and live storage.MORRIS, MN. - Superior Industries, a Morris, Minn.-based manufacturer of conveyor systems and components, offers its tunnel reclaim conveyors as a low-cost alternative to loaders and feed hoppers. Available as portable or stationary units, Superior Industries' heavy-duty reclaim systems are reliable as well as cost effective in applications that include primary plant feed, wash plant feed, truck loadout, and live storage. Delivering low-cost installation when compared to galvanized and pre-cast tunnels, Superior Industries' tunnel reclaim conveyors are manufactured in steel and are available in rounded or rectangular box designs. For operational safety, units can be accompanied by either 8' or 10' domes engineered with a stress-shedding design. The larger 10' domes allow for wider belts or a two-sided walkway.

Superior Industries offers a comprehensive line of conveyor systems, equipment and components for sand gravel, aggregate, mining, concrete, asphalt, recycling, civil and marine engineering, wood, pulp, and paper, chemical processing, electric utility, coal, grain, and other processing industries.For more information, contact Deb Watnaas at Superior Industries, P.O. Box 684, Morris, MN 56267. Phone: 320-589-2406; Fax: 320-589-2260;

Oscillating funnel follower provides controlled product transfer

2008-02-15T03:58:00.000-08:00

This oscillating funnel follower provides controlled transfer of product from a packaging systems's combination weigher to continuous-motion horizontal tray and carton filling conveyors. Single and multiple funnel designs are offered to meet specific requirements and optimize overall line speeds for both single- and dual-lane conveyors. A dual in-line funnel arrangement achieves filling speeds of 140 containers per minute. No tray/no fill sensors ensure that no product is discharged when there is no container. An independent drive system with servo motor automatically synchronizes the transfer funnels to the conveyor flights and reliably controls the funnel's motion profile to maximize the window for product transfer. All horizontal and vertical motions of the funnels are driven through a single mechanism. The funnels feature heavy-duty stainless steel construction suitable for a washdown environment and meet USDA sanitation standards

Load analysis and preventive maintenance offer reliable screw conveyor operations

2008-02-14T02:58:00.000-08:00

By adjusting operating parameters to avoid loads and adhering to more rigorous inspections, conveyor downtime from wood screw failures becomes avoidable

BY ROTATING AND MOVING along the bottom of a pile of wood material that is often more than 80 ft high, screw conveyors transport such products as woodchips, bark, and sawdust through a pulp and paper mill. The component of this conveying system that physically moves the material is the wood screw, a large spiraling mechanism also known as a sawdust, bark, or Wennberg screwAlthough a simple system, screw conveyors have the potential to shut down portions of the mill when screw breaks occur under an inaccessible portion of the pile. However, by monitoring certain operating parameters that influence loads placed on the screw, as well as implementing certain preventive maintenance activities, a mill can reduce the number of failures and minimize unscheduled downtime.

BASIC WOOD SCREW DESIGN. The screw portion of the conveyor has an overall nominal length of 35 ft-45 ft and is made up of five basic parts as shown in Figure 1. Each of these parts is subject to failure and presents a different maintenance challenge.

Barrel. The barrel portion of the wood screw conveyor is typically made of pipe material manufactured according to the ASME specification SAl 06, Grade C Schedule 120 pipe.

If the barrel portion breaks, lead times for obtaining new screws can range from three to five months, because sections of pipe over 35 ft long are difficult to obtain from suppliers.Also, in most mills, welding varying lengths of pipe together to make the barrel is considered unacceptableFlights and digger teeth. Having the appearance of screw threads on a screw, flights are made of bent flat plate material that is welded to the barrel in a helical pattern. Digger teeth, which are small pieces of metal welded to the outer edges of the flights, are sometimes added to the screw to help break up compacted material along its length.

Digger teeth enhance the performance of the screw by digging into the pile, but, since their failures have only a minor impact on the overall operations of the screw, they are considered expendable. However, failure of the flights can reduce system capacity, resulting in damage to the barrel. Damaged flights must be removed from the barrel, then replaced with new ones.This means that the screw is taken out of service for one to three weeks, depending on the extent of damage.

Drive shaft. The drive shaft is a center traversing pipe which drives the screw. It is physically located inside the barrel and extends from one end to the other.

The drive shaft is protected by the barrel, but can be damaged when the barrel fails.Although the pipe material is not difficult to obtain, replacing it means the screw must be taken apart.

End shafts, end heads, and bearings. Located at the ends of the screw, these components allow independent rotational and lateral movement of the screw. The components are not difficult to obtain or fabricate, but replacing them means downtime as the screw is taken apart for repair.

Wear resistant coverings. Wear resistant coverings are placed on the flights and the barrel to extend the screw's life by reducing material loss from erosion. These coverings are hand-applied coatings, wear-resistant plate material, or alloy material (stainless steel, inconel, etc.) welded to the surfaces of the barrel or flights.

Wear-resistant coverings are intended to wear away under normal operating conditions. However, they should be replaced on a regularly scheduled basis since they are easier to replace than the barrel or the flights.

SURFACE CRACKING CAUSES. Most screws fail near the center of the screw or slightly offcenter toward the drive end.

These types of failures are usually load related and are the result of cracking that starts at some type of surface discontinuity such as a dent, ding, irregular weld contour, weld start or stop, or a material microstructure of martensite at the toe of the flight-to-barrel weld.These surface discontinuities act as stress risers, amplifying the effects of loads on the screw.When trying to prevent screw failures, examining the load conditions that initiate surface cracking is just as important as examining the parts affected by the loads.

Imposed Loads. The two major types of applied loads on the screw result in forces that bend or twist it.These forces are perpendicular loads (bending loads) and parallel (twisting loads) applied to the screw axis. The forces that are applied perpendicular to the screw axis are the result of the pile weight acting vertically downward, of the horizontal force on the screw as it is pushed against a compacted or frozen portion in the pile, or of a vertically upward force on the screw as it rides over material between the flights and the floor during startup. These forces tend to bend or bow the screw near the center of its length or at a location under the portion of the pile with the greatest material height.

Chain Conveyor offers 8 chain options

2008-02-14T02:54:00.000-08:00

VarioFlow lets manufacturers link assembly operations with functions such as parts feeding and packaging on either side of assembly process. It consists of 2 profile widths, 65 and 90 mm, with chains of 62 and 87 mm, respectively. Variable speed drive option offers transport speeds up to 60 m/min. Chain options include standard, cleated, steel top, universal, friction top, 20 mm roller cleat, 35 mm roller cleat, and low back pressure chain.

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Company to feature its VarioFlow conveyor system at IMTS, September 8-15, 2004, at the McCormick Place Complex in Chicago, IL; Booth # D4240.

A flexible chain conveyor system, VarioFlow promises to increase line speed and reduce bottlenecks.The latest chain conveyor from Bosch Rexroth, VarioFlow, lets manufacturers link assembly operations with functions such as parts feeding and packaging on either side of the assembly process. VarioFlow consists of two profile widths, 65 mm and 90 mm, with chains of 62 mm and 87 mm, respectively. The product offers a uniquely integrated variable speed drive option with transport speeds (up to 60 m/min) and stronger chain than other single strand chain conveyors (tensile force of up to 1250 N). Three new drive modules (a connecting drive, a transmission drive and dual drive) and six new chain types have also been added to the product line. The new types of chains have been specially designed for the food and packaging sectors. The chain line-up now encompasses 8 types: standard, cleated, steel top, universal, friction top, 20 mm roller cleat, 35 mm roller cleat and low back pressure chain. Products can be conveyed up 15[degrees] inclined slopes without the use of cleats by using the new cohesive friction chains. Universal chain is intended for the easy attachment of any customer-specific chain top and features an additional groove in the chain for torsion protection.

Finally, two new mounting brackets enhance layout flexibility and vastly simplify the assembly and installation of even complex multi-level alpine systems. One of the new brackets also makes it possible to suspend VarioFlow from the ceiling to let users maximize productivity at every level in their plants.

Bosch Rexroth Corporation, a merger of Bosch Automation Technology and Rexroth, is a wholly owned subsidiary of Robert Bosch GmbH. In the year 2002, Bosch Rexroth AG had total revenues of approximately $3.89 billion (3.62 billion Euros) and a worldwide total of around 26,000 employees. In the Americas, Bosch Rexroth had total revenues of $795 million and about 3,000 employees in 2002.

Business units include Industrial Hydraulics, Electric Drives and Controls, Linear Motion and Assembly Technologies, Pneumatics, Service Automation and Mobile Hydraulics. Bosch Rexroth, The Drive & Control Company, offers comprehensive solutions for drives and motion control in 80 countries around the world.

Forex Trading-How To Build A Trading System (Part 3)

2008-02-02T02:41:00.000-08:00

Now you've got a trading system all coded and you know that your entry is producing better than a random entry into the market. Excellent.

If you haven't already tested it on as much market data as you have available, now is the time to do so. That last thing you want is a trading system that works great on the EUR/USD, but fails to trade the GBP/USD. Something isn't right there. That system is going to blow up sooner or later. A robust system will trade all actively trading currencies with a profit.

After you've tested it on all kinds of data and it's working well, the most important test comes next. The walk forward test. Set up a demo account and have the system demo trade the market live for at least two weeks.

How did it work? Did it mess anything up?

Review the trades and perform any maintenance on the system. N.B. I'm NOT talking about optimizing the system at this point. I'm talking about technical failures in the code itself. These will show up. Better to have them show up on a live forward walk test that a live account with real money!

Now for one of the most important questions of all, even though this system worked, will it fail in the future? Trading systems do that. You don't want that to happen to you.

I'm going to tell you a dirty little secret that you can use to make sure your system is good. It involves work. You decide if it's worth it. Trade the system on futures and stocks. If it holds it's own on the other markets, I guarantee you that you have a winner.

Do you want to learn more about how I trade? I have just completed my brand new guide, "Forex Trading - What Finally Worked For Me".

Blog Internet Advertising Made Easy

2008-02-02T02:39:00.000-08:00

Seriously pursuing blog Internet advertising income is easy can dramatically increase virtually any blogger's revenue and has in the past made the life of many a blogger much more profitable.

Blog Internet advertising is made very easy when you sit down and devise a plan on how you are going to attract and generate advertising at your blog. It is really that simple. What you should be able to come up with in the end is a sort of made easy system for selling internet advertising at your blog. What is a system? A system like a production system, recruitment system and so on is a laid down procedure and process. In this case a specially designed process for selling online ads at your blog. Like all good effective selling systems, it will have a process for generating a constant flow of leads. Then you will need to have a carefully planned effective way of handling and processing these leads so that you convert as many of them into actual sales as possible.

If this sounds very much like a car assembly line to you, then you are bang on target and have fully understood what a system is, especially in relation to your blog Internet advertising made easy.

How Stress Affects The Immune System

2008-02-01T02:27:00.000-08:00

According to several medical researches, stress has certain effects on the immune system. Ninety percent of diseases and illnesses are related to stress. Examples are cardiovascular diseases, heart diseases, high blood pressure, and many other illnesses.

An interaction of cellular products and cells is basically your immune system. The main cells called leukocytes (white blood cells) are known as the fighter of your immune system and is divided into three classes; the monocytes, lymphocytes, and granulocytes.

Stress is considered an internal factor that can bring about a poor immune system. This is due to your body's natural response to stressful events. If your nervous system (autonomic) is frequently activated because of chronic stress, your immune system's capabilities will be diminished.

If you're still not convinced, here is a list of the effects of stress on the immune system.

1. Increase in sympathetic activity and a decrease in cellular immunity.

2. The immune cells tend to migrate to other body parts which can worsen allergic conditions and autoimmunity.

3. The immune cell's positive acute mobilizations are suppressed.

Many years ago, very little information was known about the effects of stress to the human immune system. But because of the medical researches undertaken by many medical professionals, the relation between stress and the immune system has been established.

The strategy that you choose in order to cope with stress has a large impact on your immune system. Your immune system's resources can be tied up because of negative emotions. By inhibiting expression of such negative emotions, you're doing more harm to your immune system.

If you feel that you're stressed, it would be best to seek medical attention immediately to prevent any negative effect on the immune system.

Web Based School Management Software/System

2008-02-01T02:25:00.000-08:00

With the expansion of web technology, many schools have come forward to make use of the mighty web to expand the education approach and widen the effectiveness of education system. During this many of us have encountered various challenges. In this article we are giving tips on line schooling.

Schooling round the clock around the globe... exciting but what to do for it. The first question is can it work online? It is important to understand our infrastructure and the users before we finalize anything on this account. For some countries the idea of online schooling may work with fully online system but with most countries where Internet facility is still at a growing phase the idea may end up, is a dream far off. For this the concept of an intranet based system that works offline and can synchronize with online interface is something that works.

With the inception of the online + offline system we have all the economy and speed of an offline system and approach of an online system.

1. The system is available offline so works with the speed of your LAN. So quite practical in a school where the number of transactions are very high.

2. Offline availability of system eliminates the requirement of a 24hrs dedicated internet connection.

3. The online system is an interface to the outside world. So without redundancy we have everything shared in web. Secure and personalized.

4. Web based school management systems gives parents access to the required information without much involvement of money and time.

5. With a web based school management software we can organize an effective parent interaction system for better relationship and knowledge sharing with them.

What Your Customers Want

2008-01-31T03:42:00.000-08:00

Your customers don't know what they want. And to assume otherwise is folly. When you begin relying totally on customers to be your product development department, you are asking for serious trouble.

I am not saying that you should discount customer input. However, asking customers what they want is a marketing question and requires experienced marketers to answer.

Marketers have the objectivity to look at the marketplace, see through the consumer's self-deception and discern the answer to a tough question that requires some serious analysis.

It is behavior that you need to be learning about from your consumers. Ask them questions that will get to the heart of how they use your products and services. This is where their experience is crucial.

Let's take an example to illustrate the difference between a "what do you want" and "what do you do" question. Krispy Kreme, the world's best donut-maker, did some customer research in the 1980s to learn more about the customer experience.

They didn't ask, "what do you want in a donut?" They asked questions like, "what do you like about Krispy Kreme?" and "when do you buy donuts?"

Answers to those questions helped them redesign the Krispy Kreme experience. They learned that people were happiest when the donuts were hot. Additionally, they heard loud and clear that consumers had no idea when the hot donuts were coming down the conveyor belt. Voila! The "Hot Now" sign was born.

Consumers said they often were in a hurry, heading to a morning meeting when they stopped for donuts. Customers did not like having to stand in line to wait for the sweet treats. From this, marketers decided to install drive-in windows.

If they had asked customers "what do you want in a donut," they may have produced some low carb abomination that would have crashed to the floor like a heavy Dunkin Donut. Friends, when you want a donut, the last thing you are thinking about is carbs.

So, ask the right questions of your consumer, then let the right people review the research and everyone benefits.Your customers don't know what they want. And to assume otherwise is folly. When you begin relying totally on customers to be your product development department, you are asking for serious trouble.

I am not saying that you should discount customer input. However, asking customers what they want is a marketing question and requires experienced marketers to answer.

Marketers have the objectivity to look at the marketplace, see through the consumer's self-deception and discern the answer to a tough question that requires some serious analysis.

It is behavior that you need to be learning about from your consumers. Ask them questions that will get to the heart of how they use your products and services. This is where their experience is crucial.

Let's take an example to illustrate the difference between a "what do you want" and "what do you do" question. Krispy Kreme, the world's best donut-maker, did some customer research in the 1980s to learn more about the customer experience.

They didn't ask, "what do you want in a donut?" They asked questions like, "what do you like about Krispy Kreme?" and "when do you buy donuts?"

Answers to those questions helped them redesign the Krispy Kreme experience. They learned that people were happiest when the donuts were hot. Additionally, they heard loud and clear that consumers had no idea when the hot donuts were coming down the conveyor belt. Voila! The "Hot Now" sign was born.

Consumers said they often were in a hurry, heading to a morning meeting when they stopped for donuts. Customers did not like having to stand in line to wait for the sweet treats. From this, marketers decided to install drive-in windows.

If they had asked customers "what do you want in a donut," they may have produced some low carb abomination that would have crashed to the floor like a heavy Dunkin Donut. Friends, when you want a donut, the last thing you are thinking about is carbs.

So, ask the right questions of your consumer, then let the right people review the research and everyone benefits.

Breeze Through Airport Security

2008-01-31T03:41:00.000-08:00

During the shake up a few years ago of the airport security system, things got a little crazy and airport security went a little overboard confiscating toenail clippers and hair mousse. Thankfully those days of an overzealous security system are behind us and a cautious, careful and reasonable security system has take its place. With a little commonsense and preparation, you can reduce the hassle and the time it takes you to get through airport security and get your flight off to a great start.

Like most things in life, a little preparation goes a long way. Preparation is especially helpful for a smooth move through airport security. Before you even pack your swim suit, do a little planning to make sure that items are packed appropriately for that little visit with security. A little commonsense applies. If you are traveling with anything that is a weapon or could be used as a weapon, pack it in your checked luggage.

Sharp-pointed metal scissors, pack 'em in a checked bag. Curved-tipped scissors are okay for carry-on. Despite some stories you may have heard from friends, the following items are allowed in your carry-on luggage: knitting needles, toenail clippers, corkscrews, nail files, blunt-tipped scissors and safety razors. The most common personal item that is not allowed in checked or carry-on bags is a lighter. If you are a smoker, pack a few books of safety matches in your carry-on bag instead.

If you are traveling with a laptop, it must be inspected outside of your carry-on bag. So, you may want to label your laptop separately by taping a business card or other identifier to the bottom.

Pack all of your valuables, laptop, camera and camcorder equipment in your carry- on bags. Camera film and equipment may be damaged by the checked-luggage screening and you want to keep your valuables in your personal care at all times.

Remember that checked luggage must be unlocked or locked with a TSA-recognized lock (a lock designed with a special code that security may use to inspect the contents of your bags). If you are packing gifts, don't wrap them until you get to your destination as security may have to inspect them.

Now that you're packed, it's time to dress for the airport. Avoid wearing a lot of jewelry or metal items. Try to wear a pair of tennis shoes or other comfortable shoes that doesn't have a metal support in the sole construction (many thick-soled dress shoes and high-heeled women's shoes use these). If you pack your keys, cell phone or PDA in your pocket, prepare an empty pocket in your carry-on where you can easily place these items before you get to the security checkpoint.

When you're at the airport and about to go through security, the most important thing you can do is to be prepared for the next step in the process. Before you enter the security line, verify that there is not a shorter line at another gateway that you can use. As you enter the line, have your boarding pass and driver's license or passport ready for inspection. Keep these items easily accessible as many airports require you to show them more than once.

As you approach the security checkpoint, remove all metal items, keys, PDAs and cell phones from your person and place them in your specially prepared carry-on pocket. You may also want to remove your jacket and carry it over your arm until you get to the check point.

At the security checkpoint, take your laptop out of your carry-on. Place your laptop and jacket in the provided containers. Place your carry-on bag on the conveyor. As your items enter the screener, it's time for you to breeze on through the checkpoint.

Be sure to follow the instructions of the security screeners. Remember they are there to ensure your security. If you are pulled aside for a random screening, be courteous to the security personnel. They are there to do a job and being pleasant makes things a little nicer for both them and you.

A little commonsense and preparation can ease your way through airport security and get your flight off to a great start. Happy traveling.

Car Audio System -- A New Buyer's Guide

2008-01-30T01:40:00.000-08:00

You have several options if you want to improve your current car audio system. The market is flooded with car audio systems and choosing the right one for your car can be a tough task. However, with a few guiding tips, you'll be all set to choose the right audio system for your car.

There are some fundamental guiding tips that can make the process of selecting the right car audio system very painless.

First and foremost you must check the capacity of your pocket. You must buy an audio system that does not burn a hole in your pocket.

Your preference matters a lot. You can either choose a system which gives you ultimate sound quality or go for a simple and basic system.

It is essential that the new car audio system is extremely user-friendly. The system must have large and well-spaced buttons to enable easy and smooth operation. The system must be such that ensures minimum distraction.

The car audio system must also have a proper display. The display must be large, clear and well informative.

A car audio system must have a head unit which shows all the pertinent data for the convenience of the user.

The system must have a powerful amplifier. Without a high quality amplifier, even a new car audio system will not give the highest quality you can get from it.

It is always good to have car audio systems that have separate tweeters. Users must make sure that the tweeters are properly positioned for the best results.

A separate sub woofer to the car audio system would provide that extra rumble to the system.

These are the basics. There are more to an audio system but those are certainly not for a new enthusiast. However, if you keep these very basic factors in mind, buying a good car audio system would surely be a pleasurable experience. Make sure driving your car is also a treat to your ears.

What Is A Profitable Horse Racing System?

2008-01-30T01:39:00.000-08:00

Do you need a profitable horse racing system? A horse racing system is something that teaches you how to bet on horses for a profit, and usually includes a staking plan as well. More often than not, you will need to pay money for it, therefore you should find out if anyone else is making any money before you buy any racing system. I would look for testimonials before considering to buy any racing system on the internet.

When you start using a new horse racing system, you may want to test out the system first, before using your real money. More often than not, the racing systems that I had bought on the internet lost me money, and I had wished that I did not use real money. Test out the system by writing down your bets on a piece of paper first, and after a week or so, look at whether you have an overall profit figure.

A profitable horse racing system should be able to give you a consistent monthly income that can be achieved by anyone who follows the system accordingly. Its staking plan should increase your betting bank gradually, while putting it at a low and reasonable level of risk.

The best horse racing systems that I have found did not necessarily have the highest strike rates. Another very important aspect of a profitable horse racing system is the staking plan. With the right staking plan, it is possible to get a profitable horse racing system with only 50% strike rate or so.

Are you looking for a profitable horse racing system? The author is a mathematician who has a passion for studying gambling systems. As of today, he has identified some very profitable Horse Racing Systems that are generating a good amount of profit.

Leaders Learn From Teachers With A New Curriculum

2008-01-07T05:36:00.000-08:00

How can teachers use their curriculum to train leaders for the future? How can parents encourage their children to lead when they grow up? The first place to start in raising your students into leadership is to change your own education paradigm.

Does your education paradigm really matter? Most of us grew up in a public or private school, which can be likened to a factory. All the students come to the factory or the school. They start in kindergarten and move on to first grade, down the conveyor belt, as described by Oliver DeMille. At each stage of the conveyor belt (or grade level), the student learns the exact same information as everyone else. The students are told what to think.

Even though the school may be using tools like classics, the school's approach to education only teaches students "what to think". The curriculum is master to everyone. Too often, teachers lecture and "force-feed" information to their students. Please know I do not believe lectures are bad; they have a place. But too often, teachers lecture, telling their students what to think about the readings. Later on, tests are given to determine if the student knows what the teacher thinks about the readings, not what the students discover about the readings. John Gatto says it well.

After you fall into the habit of accepting what other people tell you to think, you lose the power to think for yourself. John Taylor Gatto, A Different Teacher, 2002

When you have a steady diet of lecture, you lose the power to think for yourself. To develop leaders of tomorrow, you need to change the methods used to educate today's children.

How do you look at education?

Does your curriculum dictate your child's education? Do you believe educators needs textbooks for everything? If so, you are training your children to follow. The underlying assumption of textbooks is that the teacher and student do not know enough to evaluate resources, so the textbook author will do it for you. All the student has to do is learn the conclusions of the textbook to become successful in "school". This model of education makes great followers who learn "what to think".

Ponder for a moment. Textbooks give students questions to answer. If the student can answer the chosen questions on a test, he can move on to the next piece of information. Textbooks do not encourage students to think outside of the answers in the teacher's manual. This model has provided our society with highly trained, but poorly educated graduates.

Leadership Education takes a different approach to curriculum. One of the essential elements of leadership education is teaching how to think. I don't think your children should complete their education and not know how to think on their own. Shifting your educational model from "what to think" to "how to think" can be a major change in your life. Below are some practical ways to set a foundation for this type of education by starting with yourself.

As you teach your children how to think, you might see a lifestyle change for your entire family. Leadership Education ultimately involves the family as a whole. Initially, it takes much effort from a parent because you must be involved in learning and growing yourself. You can not hand over some workbooks and say "go for it". Workbooks merely teach your children "what to think", not "how to think".

To begin your own education as a teacher or parent, start by reading one classic. Choose a classic that interests you. If you're not sure what classic to read, consult a young adult classics list. Once you finish your first classic, continue reading a classic each week for the next four weeks. You will complete five books and be on the road to furthering your own education.

As your children see their parents studying and learning, they begin to have a different idea of what education is all about. You will be excited about what you are learning and want to share it with your own children. After you finish five classics, read another one and add a writing activity. As you read this classic, keep a reading journal. In your reading journal, write down your thoughts about the story. Share your thoughts with someone else. Now, it is time to start with your own students. Choose a classic to read aloud together. The first classic you read together should be purely for enjoyment. If your students have never enjoyed classics, you may need to read a few more before moving to journaling and discussing. Once you think your children are ready, ask them to journal about the story after you finish reading each day. Then, discuss what the students write in their journal.

Francis Bacon said, "Reading maketh a full man, conference a ready man, and writing an exact man." Reading, writing and discussing are foundational to developing students who think for themselves. If you want your children to be leaders, they must think on their own. Classics are the best place to start.

When you follow this process, you become a teacher who leads by example. Your example is part of a new type of curriculum for your children's education

Which Version of Xbox 360 Should you Buy?

2008-01-07T05:35:00.000-08:00

Many people will want to know what exactly the XBOX 360 is. The Xbox 360 is a next generation video game system that can play both games and DVD movies right out of the package. The XBOX 360 can also play some games from the original XBOX. The biggest feature is the high definition feature of the new system. The HDTV graphics are much more enhanced than other graphics.

There are two different versions and prices of the Xbox 360 system: The XBox 360 Core System and The XBox 360 Premium System.

1- XBOX 360 Core System

The XBOX 360 Core System is basically a bare bones system for people that simply want to play games. For the cost of $300 you get the following:

- XBOX 360 System

- Composite AV cable (the red, white, and yellow cable)

- Wired controller

The Core system does not include a hard drive or memory unit to save your games. It also does not come with the cable to allow you to hook it up to a HDTV. The Core system is ideal for purchasing for a younger child that doesn’t care to do anything but play his or her games.

2- The XBOX 360 Premium System

The XBOX 360 premium system comes with everything you need to get the best use out of your system. With a price of $400 you will get the following:

- XBOX 360 System

- Ethernet cable

- 20GB external hard drive

- Wireless controller

- XBOX live headset

- Component AV cables the hook up both the HDTV and standard TV

You basically get a lot of accessories for only $100 more than the Core System, which is cheaper than purchasing all of the extra components separately. You are getting over $200 worth of extras for around $100. That alone makes the premium bundle worth the extra money.

Carwash Conveyor Systems Need Improvements

2007-12-19T22:31:00.000-08:00

There are over thirty different brands of carwash conveyor systems. Many work on the same theory of Hanna’s Conveyor System. Others have unique differences. But there is quite a different in the modern car wash systems from almost 70 years ago when the first carwash conveyor system was introduced in Detroit. And in the last decade we have seen that even more industry changes are needed to the new robotic car wash conveyor systems. For instance a new set of upgrades is needed in the industry such as a new conveyor belt because of the many different types of cars. Think of the lowered “rice rockets” Japanese imports like the ones you saw in “The Fast and the Furious” movie, with fender flares. How about big dually pick-ups and big SUVs with over sized tires. How about those newer hybrids in which the wheels in the front do not line up with the ones in the back? Also consider the LLVs, which the US post office uses.

A conveyor system is needed indeed; a completely new style one, which takes these needs into consideration. Big tires pop-out of conveyor wash systems and damage vehicles. Little cars often have rims, which stick out past the tires and scratch, while the fender flares can be ripped up from the car? I propose these factors to be taken into consideration. Any gentleman or engineer who has the answer stands to make a whole lot of money in the new robotics world of car washing.

Car Washing is growing each year and there are 32,000 conveyor car washes in the United States alone. But a good conveyor system, which can be used for washing has other benefits and uses too. For instance other things such as; Shopping Carts for instance to prevent virus spread and to insure they are properly sanitized between users at the super market or how about wheel chairs at hospitals, where bacteria is known to be problematic.

There is a lot of money in the Car Wash Industry for equipment as a matter of fact we are now the 32nd largest trade show in the world? Crazy indeed.

Role Of Conveyor Brushes In Maintenance Of Conveyor Belts

2007-12-19T22:30:00.000-08:00

Conveyor belts can easily be termed as the heart of your machinery and your assembly. Most companies that have a high end production line maintain the conveyor belts in pristine condition.

You might think that maintaining the conveyor belts and getting rid of the dirt, debris, loose material and contaminants would require more manual labor and increased costs. But this is where you are wrong.

A completely automated conveyor belt cleaning system which involves conveyor brushes is the need of the day. An oven brush or a shaft on core brush can help you to clean and maintain your conveyor belt and keep it running at all times.

This also reduces the risk of your employees sustaining injuries and burns while attempting to clean the belt.

Advantages galore

You can get custom designed brushes to coordinate with the mounting and drive mechanisms. Depending on the kind of conveyor system, you can choose from a wide variety of brushes.

From carbon steel or high temperature nylon fill brushes for oven conveyors to spiral open wound brushes for cooling conveyors.

There are several ways in which you can further save costs.

* If you buy a heavy duty core brush, then you can simply refill the brush and save costs on a new assembly.
* On the other hand, if you choose an un-mounted brush, you can save costs by in house assembly.
* You can also buy use and throw brushes which can simply be disposed and replaced for fresh use.

Spiral conveyor brushes

Spiral conveyor brushes are the latest ones to hit the circuit and are fast replacing all conventional cleaning systems.

These brushes improve quality, productivity and reduce on the conveyor system downtime. Designed by experienced engineers, these brushes can give a new lease of life to your conveyor belt system.

Intermodal: a high speed conveyor belt

2007-07-25T03:38:00.000-07:00

"If you can't make it work with stub-end pencils, you aren't going to make it work with technology."

For many years, intermodal represented the dilemma of modern railroading: explosive growth that proved you could divert traffic off the highways, but not necessarily with the levels of revenue and profitability that justified the never-ending investment needed to continue winning that traffic. That's the dilemma CN resolved with its Intermodal Excellence (IMX) plan. "Our first pass at this was balancing trains, crews, locomotives, cars, and cube, smoothing it over seven days," says Paul Waite, vice president-IMX. "The key has been working with customers to build on the strengths of our Scheduled Railroad Service. You start with a base plan with fixed train and car requirements. You schedule and reserve all aspects of the shipment cycle, from empty order to final delivery. And you then move from a scheduled railway to a reserved railway with yield management."

One of the biggest problems was the seasonal and daily imbalance in demand, which led to inconsistent, unreliable service. In 2002, prior to IMX, the average daily demand peaked each week on Thursdays and Fridays. At the same time, demand died on Saturdays and Sundays. Under IMX, the operating plan has been redesigned, and terminal gate and slot reservation systems have been created to smooth and balance volumes. Pricing has been used to influence demand and fill capacity. The goal is to smooth demand to about 14% daily. Flattening the peaks and valleys eliminates the capacity crunch at the end of the week.

Strut System saves utility installation time

2007-07-25T03:35:00.000-07:00

Offered in lengths up to 10 ft, Saddlestrut(TM) contoured strut system is designed for attaching electrical equipment, signs, awnings, lighting fixtures, burglar bars, and other equipment to metal buildings. It works on R, U, AP, and custom panel designs. Kits are available with all mounting hardware needed for secure installations in variety of metal building applications.

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Electricians and Metal Building Contractors Shown Saddlestrut(TM) Agree: This Product Will Save Up To 2 Hours Per Utility Installation

Installing panels, service meters, risers, signs and other objects neatly to contoured metal buildings using standard strut systems has always been a headache for the installer.
Talk to any installer and he will tell you, "with the normal kinds of strut available, when I get to a job site and I have to mount my equipment to a metal building, I will bridge that gap from the top surface of the building skin to the back from cutting and using pieces of electrical conduit, using washers, cutting small blocks of wood to mounting standard strut vertically; I'll do whatever it takes and use whatever is handy." And, none of the installers will tell you it's an efficient or timely process nor are they likely to be satisfied with the integrity or the appearance of the eventual installation. Every metal building contractor and electrician that has seen Saddlestrut(TM) has said either, "I wondered how long it would be before someone came up with a strut specifically shaped for metal buildings" or "I wish I had thought of it myself."
Saddlestrut(TM) is a patent pending contoured strut system designed specifically for attaching electrical equipment, signs, awnings, lighting fixtures, burglar bars and other equipment to metal buildings. The strut system works on R, U, AP and custom panel designs. Saddlestrut(TM) is currently manufactured in lengths up to 10 feet long and in kits that include all of the mounting hardware needed for easy, fast, simple, neat and secure installations for a myriad of metal building applications.

Saddlestrut(TM) is exclusively manufactured by Fine Line Production. The company also manufactures other parts for metal building applications as well as parts and assemblies for the highway safety, conveyor and high-end office furniture and other industries.

Conveyors provide roadmap to efficiency: your packaging line depends on a smooth highway system of conveyors—while avoiding bumps in the road - Techno

2007-07-04T03:12:00.000-07:00

If you were to take an overhead photo of a packaging line, the conveying system would look a lot like a highway or, in some cases, a roller coaster.

Referred to as "intelligent bridges between islands of automation," conveyors are key components to a smooth running packaging line. The idea, obviously, is to get packaging elements from point A to point Z in the quickest and most efficient way possible.

Selecting the optimum conveyor system is dependent on your packaging operation. Flat-top chain is the most commonly used style of conveyor in packaging operations and is available in several generic styles including channel frame, sanitary and open frame conveyors. But sophisticated conveyor systems are expanding beyond the generic and improvements are being made while using established conveying technologies (see our list of conveyor manufacturers at the end of this article).

Some technological improvements in conveyors include:

* Convenient and ergonomic solutions.

* Easy belt reversal for inclined conveyors to increase productivity.

* Screw style conveyors to protect products while cutting costs.

* Improvements in bucket conveyor system for handling and packaging bulk materials and powders.

Considering ergonomics

Ergonomics are a key driver to newly designed bi-directional product conveyors and accumulation tables. These units allow packers to control the amount of product accumulated while controlling conveying speeds.
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For instance, some units have variable-speed motors and speed differential belts, allowing the belt closest to the packer to be slowed down by 30%. Because packers are in control of conveyor speeds, they don't have to wait for product and accumulation is more consistent and easier to handle in less floor space. Angle-adjustable tabletops and adjustable heights are also more ergonomically sound because packers don't have to bend or stretch to reach product.

Many of these conveying systems have a pedestal style base and small footprints--varying widths from thin profiles of 65 millimeters and up. Smaller footprints help conserve premium plant floor space and are flexible enough to integrate between packaging line stations. Units are available with longer conveyor decks when multiple packers--manual or automatic--are required.

Inclined conveyors used in the food and beverage industries that are designed to operate in an upward direction sometimes need to be unloaded due to power outages, downstream back-ups or jams. Consequently, it may be necessary to reverse inclined conveyor direction, which can take physical effort and waste time.

Conventional belt drive motors have an internal backstop device that prevents the belt from roll back or reverse direction. If there is stoppage, unloading the belt must be performed manually, which results in costly downtime and undermines worker safety.

Devices are available that help reduce time and costs associated with having to reverse belt direction. For example, there is a patented Manual Release Backstop (MRB) available that has the ability to disengage an internal backstop allowing the drum motor drive to move freely in the reverse direction so the belt can be easily unloaded. The MRB can be installed on new and existing inclined conveyors. With the MRB, turning a cap screw counterclockwise disengages the backstop allowing the belt to be reversed either manually or by reversing the motor. The device is operable from the shaft opposite the junction box for simple and safe access.

Moving products safely

Transporting pharmaceutical and food powders to fill packages can be challenging and costly. Increasing requirements for dust-free powder handling have led packagers to look beyond conventional methods of powder transfer.

Compared with manual and forklift transporting and dumping of bulk material from drums or other containers, flexible screw conveyors can reduce personnel requirements significantly, especially if the material needs to be measured volumetrically where human error is possible. A screw conveyor's only moving part is its flexible spiral. It is driven by an electric motor and rotates within an outer tube, which protects product from plant debris and dust.

A flexible screw conveyor has none of the internal moving parts, crevices, filters and other potential contamination sources that can trap particles, or prevent thorough, rapid cleaning. By removing the clean-out cap, conveyor cleaning is done by flushing with steam, water or air. The screw and outer tube are also removable for wash down.

And, compared with other types of conveyors, a flexible screw conveyor can be less expensive. Fewer parts mean less wear, breakdown and, ultimately, a reduction in maintenance. Screw conveyors do not require the filters, cyclone separators, internal bearings and numerous moving parts found on conventional conveyors. Lightweight and compact, a smaller flexible screw conveyor can be mounted on frames with casters and support beams for in-plant mobility, reducing the cost of multiple stationary conveyors

Conveyor System increases bag packaging productivity

2007-07-04T02:59:00.000-07:00

Autobag[R] Maximizer(TM) continuous motion conveyor system allows operators to control speed up to 70 batches/min and allows single operator to package mixed parts. Using sensor technology, unit is capable of detecting and counting product from 1/4-5.5 in. long and up to 3 in. wide. Unit can be used in combination with Autobag AB 180 bagging system and can also be integrated with robotics and inline printer for high productivity Print-n-Pack(TM) system. STREETSBORO, OH - October 10, 2005 - Automated Packaging Systems, the world leader in high-reliability packaging systems, has introduced the Maximizer(TM) continuous motion conveyor system. This new conveyor is specifically designed to optimize speed and productivity of packaging operations and can effectively double the speed of hand-load operations. This unit can be easily integrated with Autobag bagging equipment and is ideal for packaging kits comprised of multiple small components.

Operators can control the speed of the Maximizer up to 70 batches per minute. Using advanced sensor technology, the Autobag Maximizer is capable of detecting and counting product from 1/4" to 5.5" in length and up to 3" in width. A single operator can package mixed parts with speed and accuracy.
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When used in combination with the Autobag AB 180 bagging system, a bulk supply of product can be placed on the product tray above the conveyor, and an operator can place product(s) into one of the flight trays on the conveyor belt. The conveyor dispenses the product through a field eye detection load area that counts the product and sends it to an accumulator funnel. Each individual batch of product is then delivered to a pre-opened bag at which time the bag is sealed and dispensed while another bag is presented for loading. The sensor will not trigger the bagger to cycle if a flight tray is empty.

The Maximizer is easy to set up and easy to operate. It can be integrated with robotics and an inline printer for a high productivity Print-n-Pack(TM) system.

utomated Packaging Systems has been designing and manufacturing original Autobag[R] systems and products for more than 40 years. With more than 25,000 packaging systems in operation and a national service organization, Automated Packaging has the experience and support to deliver the ultimate in customer satisfaction. The company's Autobag Systems Advantage(TM) Program combines genuine Autobag machines, materials and services to further enhance the value of its packaging solutions.

Conveyor Oven tempers transmission components at 300[degrees]F

2007-06-19T00:54:00.003-07:00

Electrically heated, 2-zone, top flow conveyor oven features 34 ft x 10 ft 4 in. x 2 ft chamber rated for 700[degrees]F max. Rated for 10,000 lb/hr, its slat type conveyor has 4 in. wide x 1/2 in. thick carbon steel slats and 9 strands of 6 in. pitch conveyor chain to carry load. In addition to integral conveyor monitoring system that promotes safe operation, oven comes equipped with strip chart recorder, push-pull style cool down system, and PLC with touch screen.Wisconsin Oven designed and manufactured an Electrically Heated Two Zone Top Flow Conveyor Oven with Cool Down to temper heavy equipment transmission components at 300* F. The oven has a 10'4" wide x 34'0" long x 2'0" high chamber rated for 700* F maximum.The equipment features a slat type conveyor, rated for 10,000 pounds per hour, with 4" wide x 1/2" thick carbon steel slats and nine (9) strands of 6" pitch conveyor chain to carry the load. An Allen-Bradley Powerflex variable frequency drive provides conveyor speed adjustability from 0.1 to 0.4 FPM for the 3 HP motor. E-stop buttons are located at each end of the conveyor. The conveyor monitoring system includes proof-of-conveyor tail shaft rotation to sound an alarm in the event the conveyor belt does not move. Part sensors are mounted at the exit end to warn of parts approaching the end and to stop the conveyor in the event a part reaches the end.

This convection oven is constructed with our patented 6" thick, Expandable Surface[R] construction with 3/16" thick carbon steel plate exterior and 18 gauge aluminized steel interior. The oven has four (4) access doors with interlocks to shut off the conveyor. Handrails are provided around the roof perimeter with ladder access. Stainless steel lubrication lines are provided for manual lubrication with a grease gun.

The heating system features plug-mounted incoloy sheathed heating elements with zero-fired SCR power control. Zone 1 is rated at 336 KW and zone 2 is rated at 204 KW. The recirculation system delivers the heated air vertically down from ductwork located above the chamber. Each zone features two (2) 26,000 CFM @ 20 HP recirculation blowers, 52,000 CFM per zone, 104,000 CFM total. The unit achieved a temperature uniformity of [+ or -]10* F @ 300* F with exception to the first and last 42" of the heating chamber.

The system features a push-pull style cool down system. Two (2) 20,000 CFM @ 10 HP fans will blow ambient shop air onto the work and two (2) 21,000 CFM @ 10 HP fans will remove the heated air from the chamber. The cool down is fabricated of 3/16" plate exterior and has one (1) access door with a conveyor interlock.

The UL labeled and certified NEMA 12 control enclosure is mounted on the oven, and includes a main power disconnect switch. The controls feature an Allen-Bradley Micrologix 1500 PLC with a PanelView Plus 1000 touch screen (10.4") for operation of the equipment. The temperature of the oven is controlled through micro-processor based digital instruments from Eurotherm. Over-temperature protection also is provided through instruments from Eurotherm. The temperature of each zone is recorded through a Eurotherm 4102C strip chart recorder. Power factor correction capacitors are provided for the recirculation and cool down blowers. The enclosure has an air conditioner for maintaining a cool environment for the control components.

Conveyor Oven tempers transmission components at 300[degrees]F

2007-06-19T00:54:00.001-07:00

Conveyors provide roadmap to efficiency: your packaging line depends on a smooth highway system of conveyors—while avoiding bumps in the road - Techn

2007-06-19T00:46:00.000-07:00

f you were to take an overhead photo of a packaging line, the conveying system would look a lot like a highway or, in some cases, a roller coaster.

But sophisticated conveyor systems are expanding beyond the generic and improvements are being made while using established conveying technologies (see our list of conveyor manufacturers at the end of this article).

Some technological improvements in conveyors include:

* Convenient and ergonomic solutions.

* Easy belt reversal for inclined conveyors to increase productivity.

* Screw style conveyors to protect products while cutting costs.

* Improvements in bucket conveyor system for handling and packaging bulk materials and powders.

Considering ergonomics

Ergonomics are a key driver to newly designed bi-directional product conveyors and accumulation tables. These units allow packers to control the amount of product accumulated while controlling conveying speeds.

For instance, some units have variable-speed motors and speed differential belts, allowing the belt closest to the packer to be slowed down by 30%. Because packers are in control of conveyor speeds, they don't have to wait for product and accumulation is more consistent and easier to handle in less floor space. Angle-adjustable tabletops and adjustable heights are also more ergonomically sound because packers don't have to bend or stretch to reach product.

Many of these conveying systems have a pedestal style base and small footprints--varying widths from thin profiles of 65 millimeters and up. Smaller footprints help conserve premium plant floor space and are flexible enough to integrate between packaging line stations. Units are available with longer conveyor decks when multiple packers--manual or automatic--are required.

Inclined conveyors used in the food and beverage industries that are designed to operate in an upward direction sometimes need to be unloaded due to power outages, downstream back-ups or jams. Consequently, it may be necessary to reverse inclined conveyor direction, which can take physical effort and waste time.

Conventional belt drive motors have an internal backstop device that prevents the belt from roll back or reverse direction. If there is stoppage, unloading the belt must be performed manually, which results in costly downtime and undermines worker safety.

Devices are available that help reduce time and costs associated with having to reverse belt direction. For example, there is a patented Manual Release Backstop (MRB) available that has the ability to disengage an internal backstop allowing the drum motor drive to move freely in the reverse direction so the belt can be easily unloaded. The MRB can be installed on new and existing inclined conveyors. With the MRB, turning a cap screw counterclockwise disengages the backstop allowing the belt to be reversed either manually or by reversing the motor. The device is operable from the shaft opposite the junction box for simple and safe access.

Moving products safely

Transporting pharmaceutical and food powders to fill packages can be challenging and costly. Increasing requirements for dust-free powder handling have led packagers to look beyond conventional methods of powder transfer.

Compared with manual and forklift transporting and dumping of bulk material from drums or other containers, flexible screw conveyors can reduce personnel requirements significantly, especially if the material needs to be measured volumetrically where human error is possible. A screw conveyor's only moving part is its flexible spiral. It is driven by an electric motor and rotates within an outer tube, which protects product from plant debris and dust.

A flexible screw conveyor has none of the internal moving parts, crevices, filters and other potential contamination sources that can trap particles, or prevent thorough, rapid cleaning. By removing the clean-out cap, conveyor cleaning is done by flushing with steam, water or air. The screw and outer tube are also removable for wash down.

And, compared with other types of conveyors, a flexible screw conveyor can be less expensive. Fewer parts mean less wear, breakdown and, ultimately, a reduction in maintenance. Screw conveyors do not require the filters, cyclone separators, internal bearings and numerous moving parts found on conventional conveyors. Lightweight and compact, a smaller flexible screw conveyor can be mounted on frames with casters and support beams for in-plant mobility, reducing the cost of multiple stationary conveyors

Conveyors provide roadmap to efficiency: your packaging line depends on a smooth highway system of conveyors—while avoiding bumps in the road - Techno

2007-06-18T23:29:00.000-07:00

If you were to take an overhead photo of a packaging line, the conveying system would look a lot like a highway or, in some cases, a roller coaster.

Referred to as "intelligent bridges between islands of automation," conveyors are key components to a smooth running packaging line. The idea, obviously, is to get packaging elements from point A to point Z in the quickest and most efficient way possible.

Selecting the optimum conveyor system is dependent on your packaging operation. Flat-top chain is the most commonly used style of conveyor in packaging operations and is available in several generic styles including channel frame, sanitary and open frame conveyors. But sophisticated conveyor systems are expanding beyond the generic and improvements are being made while using established conveying technologies (see our list of conveyor manufacturers at the end of this article).

Some technological improvements in conveyors include:

* Convenient and ergonomic solutions.

* Easy belt reversal for inclined conveyors to increase productivity.

* Screw style conveyors to protect products while cutting costs.

* Improvements in bucket conveyor system for handling and packaging bulk materials and powders.

Considering ergonomics

Ergonomics are a key driver to newly designed bi-directional product conveyors and accumulation tables. These units allow packers to control the amount of product accumulated while controlling conveying speeds.

Chip Conveyor/Filtration System offers modular design

2007-06-07T03:17:00.000-07:00

Mequon, WI., September 1, 2004 - Using a unique "building block" approach, the new Jorgensen High Level Drum Filtration System offers a complete modular conveyor and filtration system for chip removal and coolant filtration in CNC metal cutting machine tool applications. "What separates this system from anything else available in the market today is the flexible approach it offers to the customer" says John D'Amico, Vice President Sales & Marketing for Jorgensen. "We developed this concept so that a customer buying a new machine can start by only purchasing a standard chip conveyor. Then, after running the machine in their application, they can decide if they need to add the filtration module later."

According to D'Amico, competitor's drum filtration systems require the decision to purchase a conveyor or a filtration system up front. Then, if the standard conveyor is purchased and the customer finds out later after running the machine that filtration is needed, the conveyor must be scrapped and replaced by a complete new filtration system. "With our system the standard conveyor is simply upgraded by adding the High Level Drum Filtration kit" says D'Amico. The kit is comprised of the drum filter unit, two pumps and some simple plumbing hardware.
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The High Level Drum System is capable of removing large chips and stringers and cleans coolant down to 50 micron. Machine shut down for sump cleaning is virtually eliminated. Coolant and tool life are improved, as is machining accuracy.

"The other great thing about this system is that Jorgensen has the capability to retrofit the high level drum filter package to many existing machine tool chip conveyor installations as well" says D'Amico. "Many customers will be able to upgrade their current conveyor and tank to a much more efficient filtration system with our High Level Drum Kit, and at a significantly lower cost than buying a complete new system." Jorgensen's High Level Drum Filtration system will be on display at IMTS in their booth #D4618 in the Lakeside building at McCormick Place.

Material Handling System includes roller conveyor sections

2007-06-07T03:15:00.000-07:00

Creform Material Handling System is offered with roller conveyor sections that incorporate roller tracks with steel side C-frames and aluminum rollers with plastic roller bearings. Able to support up to 50 lb/ft, roller tracks are available in 6, 9, 12, and 15 in. widths and any length, with roller-to-roller centerlines of 1, 2, 3 and 4 in. Left and right mounting brackets, TX-0060L and TX-0060R, are made of heavy-duty stamped steel for attaching conveyor modules to 28 mm pipes. Creform[R] Corporation continues to expand the application possibilities for its Creform System of material handling structures with the introduction of two new, interrelated components. The new items include high-strength, lightweight roller conveyor sections, and left and right mounting brackets for attaching the conveyor modules to Creform's 28mm pipes.

Typical uses for the economical roller conveyors are in flow racks, work stations and storage racks/shelving, where the full width support offered by roller-style is best suited, as opposed to concentrated loading of 'skatewheel' type conveyors. Applications best handled by roller conveyors include soft-bottomed containers such as corrugated boxes, plastic totes with irregular shaped bottoms, and for situations where various sizes of containers are handled. The use of roller sections can also be extended to the handling of non-containerized products such as the one-piece-flow of manufactured items.
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The roller tracks feature steel side C-frames for rigidity and strength, while the rollers are lightweight aluminum along with plastic, low-resistance roller bearings. The rollers are assembled with a through axle and have been given a low-profile design to minimize interference and save vertical space. The roller tracks are available in width options of 6, 9, 12, and 15" and roller-to-roller centerlines of 1, 2, 3 and 4" . The tracks can be ordered-to-length to fit the applicable structure's dimensions and offer support strengths of up to 50 pounds per foot.

The new mounting brackets, designated TX-0060L and TX-0060R, are heavy-duty stamped steel and plated to match other Creform hardware components and accessories. When mounting roller track sections to structures, the side frame of the track slides into the one end of the appropriate mount, either left hand or right hand, while the other end of the bracket snaps over the pipe...no tools or modifications to the pipe are required.

The roller conveyor track/mount selections join Creform's existing skatewheel style conveyors and slide pipe components to provide users with multiple options for moving materials as efficiently and economically as needed by their application criteria.

Representative examples of Creform-built structures encompass push carts and trailers; flow racks; conveyors; hinged shelf carts; tilting racks and tables; height adjustable work tables and workstations along with portable tool cribs and storage units. Anti-static structures for electronic work can be constructed using Creform's ESD-rated components. Creform also offers pipe and fixtures made from stainless steel, plus high-strength 42mm diameter pipe for use in structures. Bolt-on drive units and easy to install routing systems can convert existing manual Creform carts or trailers into efficient Automated Guided Carts (AGC).

The Creform System is a material handling concept...more than just a product, it is a series of plastic coated steel pipes, joints, fixtures and hardware accessories that can be easily designed and fabricated by users, operators and assemblers-the people who know the job best, into a host of multi-task handling structures. Creform is a major component in continuous improvement and lean manufacturing programs. Creform Corporation partners with many of its customers in developing and implementing these programs.

Roller Conveyor System provides abrasive blasting

2007-06-02T03:09:00.001-07:00

Designed for in-line surface preparation of long profiles, rod, bar, and tube materials, Model RC-800 can be used with variety of grit, shot, and bead media to produce different surface textures or finishes. Powered rubber rollers at entry and exit sides of blast cabinet grasp work and steadily feed it at controlled and adjustable speed. Inside finishing enclosure, up to 8 suction-blast guns are locked in fixed position on multi-adjustable brackets to provide uniform 360[degrees] coverage.

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March 6, 2006 - Saratoga Springs, NY - Guyson Corporation has introduced an automated blast machine for in-line surface preparation of long profiles, rod, bar and tube materials. The Model RC-800 roller conveyor blast system can be used with a wide variety of grit, shot and bead media to produce different surface textures or finishes.

Powered rubber rollers at the entry and exit sides of the blast cabinet are fitted with spring-loaded tension rollers to grasp the work and steadily feed it at controlled and adjustable speed. Inside the finishing enclosure, up to eight suction-blast guns are rigidly locked in fixed position on multi-adjustable brackets to provide uniform 360-degree coverage. The guns can, alternatively, be arranged to selectively target certain areas of the work, for instance, to prepare specific features for bonding or cementing operations.

The interior of the cabinet is made with vestibules on both sides that house the synchronized drive roller mechanism. These separate chambers are sealed by rubber flaps and brushes to isolate the drives from the abrasive blasting media, as well as to help prevent the escape of media or dust into the work environment and to reduce the operating noise level of theautomated blasting system.

The Model RC-800 can be supplied with external roller conveyors, either on the entry side to aid in feeding the work or at the exit to accumulate finished pieces. Maximum feed rates vary according to the material and the type of surface treatment. The new model machine is recommended for processing sections that are at least six feet in length. To blast shorter sections, special adaptations are required, with more powered rollers spaced closer together.

When the processing specifications require the highest degree of consistency in technical surface preparation, for instance, when a specific roughness must be produced prior to a critical coating, the Model RC-800 can be supplied with an enhanced media reclamation system. In addition to a high-performance cyclone separator, the precision reclaim may include a vibratory screen classifier to maintain the tightest possible control over shot or grit particle sizing. Numerous electronic sensor options are available for monitoring and control.

Abrasion resistance features of the system include bonded rubber lining of the blast cabinet and cyclone, cast urethane ducting to the media reclaimer, boron carbide-lined nozzles and an inner anti-frost window sealed in a quick-change frame.

Prospective users of the RC-800 blasting system are encouraged to submit sample components for free laboratory testing and application engineering evaluation at the machine builder's factory in northeastern New York State.

CONTACT FOR ADDITIONAL DATA:

J. C. Carson

518-587-7894, ext. 226

jccarson@guyson.com

Conveyor System minimizes operational control requirements

2007-06-02T03:08:00.000-07:00

Operating only when product transfer is underway, Quickdraw[R] Q[sup.2] (Q-squared) Series Conveyor offers SMEMA 1.2 communication-based transfer of pallets and product between work-cells. It is suited for cleanroom laboratory and factory automation and has built-in plug and play control system that eliminates need for supervisory PLCs and complex pneumatic distribution. Product can also drive auxiliary devices such as elevators, corner rotates, shuttles, and diverters.

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HOPKINS, MN-September 22, 2006-MagStar(TM) Technologies, Inc. (MagStar) has introduced an advanced new Quickdraw[R] conveyor system called the Q[sup.2] (Q-squared) Series Conveyor. The Q[sup.2] saves the end user significant costs by eliminating expensive control panels, software, and metering stops.

The Q[sup.2] Series was developed to provide a new Quickdraw Conveyor control system offering communication-based transfer of pallets and product between work-cells. "The new Q[sup.2] offers users the 'Queue Advantage' designed specifically to optimize efficient throughput, maximize output on the production line, and significantly reduce operational control costs," said Dave Helgerson, VP of Development for MagStar. It provides the greatest flexibility in a 50 percent smaller footprint than other competitive conveyor systems, and generates less debris for transport systems used in clean environments, extending the life of the conveyor system as it only operates when product transfer is underway. The Q[sup.2] Series is designed for cleanroom laboratory and factory automation. Q[sup.2] can be configured to meet SMEMA communication standards.

The Q[sup.2] offers modular plug and play operations, allows for simpler line configuration and reconfiguration, and for the option of driving auxiliary devices such as elevators, corner rotates, and shuttles, diverters, and more-all that can be integrated without expensive control panels and software. Because it is based on SMEMA 1.2 Mechanical Equipment Interface Standard, the Q[sup.2] conveyor system offers easy integration and line configuration of automation equipment. The built-in plug and play controls system eliminates the need for supervisory PLCs and complex pneumatic distribution. It operates in much less space and with much lower power than a typical transfer system.

About the company: MagStar Technologies, Inc. is in the business of contract manufacturing of spindles and custom servo motors, and manufactures magnet assemblies, industrial centrifuges and medical devices. Quickdraw Conveyor systems are MagStar's proprietary products that are automated systems for material handling in clean room and assembly applications for factory and laboratory environments. Quickdraw[R] provides ESD protection and low-power consumption. Additional company information can be found at www.magstar.com or by calling 1-800-473-8837. Send us questions and comments at info@magstar.com

Pneu-Power for 101

2007-05-01T02:31:00.001-07:00

The Beckair Pneu-Power is a bladeless, motorless fan which provides either powerful vacuum or powerful flow for extracting and conveying all kinds of materials in the processing, manufacturing and bulk handling industries. Because it has no moving parts or electrical connections, it can also be used in hazardous areas.

Using a small volume of compressed air as the power source (supplied through a flexible, 10mm hose) the Pneu-Power draws large volumes of ambient air into a small chamber, amplifying the air flow up to 25 times.

Completely maintenance-free, the device operates at low noise levels.

Applications are virtually endless and include fume and dust extraction, hopper loading, swarf removal, drum filling (for example flammable fluids, waste oils or coolants), and power and granule removal from production lines.

Because the device is so powerful, it can move material over very long distances.

Beckair, a division of Secomak Limited, has been an industry leader in air movement technologies for over 80 years.

The company has developed a range of application-specific compressed air systems to cater for the needs of virtually every industrial sector.

Gebhardt conveyors on show in Dubai

2007-05-01T02:30:00.000-07:00

Dubai Airport is already in the world's top 20 for cargo handling and has been using a Gebhardt materials handling system for two years. The two companies see the Middle East in general and the Gulf Region in particular as potential growth markets in the future. At the exhibition Gebhardt is showing its System 300 carton handling equipment and the heavy-duty System 500 for pallets.

The System 300 display will present various possible alternatives for creating a carton-handling system, including horizontal and vertical elements, sortation equipment, turntables and small-radius curves.

Control is by means of RFID technology, which allows precise automatic identification of goods.

The System 500 installation at the show is designed to demonstrate the main features of this equipment for pallet handling, including a load capacity of 2000kg, low noise and vibration levels, high speeds and excellent reliability.

Conveyor system sparkles

2007-05-01T02:29:00.000-07:00

European Conveyors Systems has completed the installation of an automated system for the order picking and despatch areas in a new 6000m distribution centre opened by Icon Live at Burgess Hill, West Sussex. The company, a leading supplier of fashion and costume jewellery to over 2000 stores throughout the UK, had out-grown its previous warehouse, where staff picked orders into cartons that they moved around the building on trolleys.

In order to keep pace with the increasing number of outlets selling its products, Icon Live decided to expand storage capacity and automate picking and despatch operations.

Carton flats for orders are assembled on the mezzanine floor of the DC and sent on a decline belt to the ground floor where they are placed in plastic trays with unique bar codes so they travel automatically to the correct picking points and despatch lane.

Five conveyor loops, each servicing three pick spur destinations, are fed by switch-sorters from the main conveyor, and once orders have been completed, each tray and order box is routed automatically to one of four packing and despatch lanes.
Further reading

Heavy-duty pallet handling system
European Conveyor Systems has completed the installation of a heavy-duty pallet handling system at McCain Foods' factory near Peterborough

Interior car parts stock handling automated
High-efficiency automated stock handling facilities at a specialist manufacturer of interior car components eliminate manual handling and maintaining accurate stock control

At either end of the ground floor picking area an elevator and lowerator link the system to the mezzanine floor above.

ECS has used Gebhardt zero-pressure accumulation conveyors extensively throughout the system to ensure the trays are fully buffered.

A two-tier allocation conveyor with tilted shelving allows for new product launches to the retail stores.

ECS designed the installation for a throughput of 3200 cartons per day, with additional in-built capacity for future business growth.

The equipment used is based on a modular design, to easily facilitate future expansion.

Worldstar wins for DS Smith Packaging

2007-04-14T03:49:00.002-07:00

DS Smith Packaging has won three of the coveted Worldstar awards, more than any other UK company, and is one of only two companies worldwide to score a hat trick in the 2006 competition!

The award winning packs reflect two major trends in the worldwide packaging market - the growth of highly effective retail ready packaging and the increasing use of corrugated in industrial markets. The retail ready packs are for Danone and The Cheese Company. The Danone pack for leading mineral brand, Shape, was designed by DS Smith Corrugated in Devizes and exemplifies the importance of easy in-store handling for this type of product.

The pack features grab handles as well as opening and carrying instructions and can be converted to the on-shelf display pack in a single movement.

DS Smith Speciality Packaging at Belper designed a pack to hold three flavours of cheese.

The previous packaging had involved a using a clear plastic tray in a transit case which had to be opened with a knife.

Belper's 100% corrugated solution is recyclable and quicker and safer to open in-store.

The Corrishield pallet pack created by DS Smith Speciality Packaging at Launceston incorporates anti-corrosion coating on pads inside double wall corrugated sleeves with PET laminated film trays top and bottom.

The ingenious use of a mix of materials with corrugated provides industrial customers with a much more environmentally acceptable means of transporting metal goods.

Terry Ousley, Director of DS Smith Packaging, commented: 'We are delighted with this public recognition'.

'We're finding that customers in every type of industry are looking for more effective and environmentally friendly packaging'.

'This means we are constantly challenging ourselves to develop innovative packs which have a positive impact at every stage in the supply chain'.

'Our Worldstar winners are excellent examples of what can be achieved through creative design.'

DS Smith Converters reduces carbon footprint

2007-04-14T03:49:00.001-07:00

DS Smith Converters has become the latest DS Smith Packaging site to receive accreditation to ISO 14001:2004, the European Standard for Environmental Management systems.

To achieve this accreditation an environmental management system had to be created with the aim of reducing the company's 'carbon footprint'. Practical steps included targeting capital investment at a range of energy reduction initiatives such as energy efficient illumination throughout the plant, including motion sensor lighting; condensate recovery systems to save steam; improvements to the compressed air system and promotion of an energy awareness programme for all employees. Other practical steps included enhancing waste segregation and recycling as well as a multitude of detailed procedural controls to reduce DS Smith Converters' impact on the environment.

Mr Mike Nicholas, Managing Director of DS Smith Converters, said: 'This is another important milestone for our plant, and follows on from the successful BRC / IOP Hygiene Accreditation we achieved in 2005'.

'The commitment and enthusiasm shown by everyone here in achieving the necessary standards to gain the accreditation is a result of many months of hard work'.

'Customers, neighbours and our own employees can now have even more confidence in our ability to supply sheet board which is produced not only safely and hygienically but also in a way which minimises our impact on the environment.'

Tamper evident tub gives boost to thermoforming

2007-04-14T03:48:00.002-07:00

The first thermoformed tamper evident solution for food packaging, developed by RPC Bebo Plastik, has given Humana Milchunion eG a stylish and practical container for its Sanobub ice cream brand.

The first commercially launched thermoformed tamper evident solution for food packaging, developed by RPC Bebo Plastik, has given Humana Milchunion eG a stylish and practical container for its Sanobub ice cream brand. The Humana Milchunion Group is one of the international leaders among milk-processing companies, realising a turnover of 2.8 billion Euros and processing a volume of 3.3 billion kilograms of milk. Humana Milchunion wanted a container that would combine effective product security with easy opening for consumer convenience.

At the same time, cost-effectiveness was a critical issue, as the solution needed to be compatible with Humana's existing filling lines.

RPC Bebo Plastik, working in close co-operation with Humana and one of its tooling suppliers, realised that a thermoformed design offers a number of practical advantages over alternative packaging formats.

It is more lightweight than any alternative injection moulded solution, whilst the polystyrene material provides excellent impact resistance at deep-freeze temperatures.

The tamper-evident effect is achieved through the creation of a channel around the rim of the tub, which acts as a seal when the lid is fitted.

A tab is incorporated into the channel to enable consumers to break the seal in order to open the lid.

The aesthetic appeal of the tub is enhanced by colourful wraparound labelling.

'RPC Bebo Plastik's innovative design delivers new possibilities in tamper-evident food packaging, and highlights the company's expertise in thermoforming,' comments Mr.Janshen, managing director of Humana Milchunion eG.

Egg cartons form Boxes Prestige

2007-04-14T03:48:00.001-07:00

Boxes Prestige, one of the UK's leading suppliers of luxury printed cartons, has teamed up with Thorntons to create a range of packaging for the extensive Easter selection.

The range of cartons created by Boxes Prestige are for a number of luxury Easter Eggs currently in store, including the full Continental Range, the Eden Egg, the Single Source Origin Egg and the Organic Chocolate Egg. In order to fulfil the luxury nature of the packaging, Thorntons have turned to their existing supplier, Boxes Prestige. Both the Single Origin and Organic ranges have packaging already printed by Boxes Prestige, and the natural and organic emphasis of the existing cartons is carried through into Thorntons new range of Easter products.

Jon Basford, Sales Manager for Boxes Prestige commented 'We have a long and trusted relationship with Thorntons, and our understanding of their needs has allowed us to apply their existing designs to the new technical challenge of creating the Easter cartons' Nicola Eaves of Thorntons said 'Having worked with Boxes Prestige in the past, we can feel confident that the cartons they provide us with will fit with both the overall Thorntons branding as well as the separate identity we have created for each individual range within that.' Boxes Prestige is one of Europe's leading manufacturers of luxury printed folding cartons and specialises in the production of niche premium products for the fragrance, personal care, confectionery and beverage markets.

With over fifty years experience, the company has built an outstanding reputation through the consistent supply of cutting edge innovative products for many of the world's leading brands.

Boxes Prestige is part of the Specialist Packaging Division of the Clondalkin Group which specialises in cartons, labels, leaflets and inserts, with 15 manufacturing sites in the United Kingdom, Ireland, the Netherlands, Poland, USA, Canada and Puerto Rico.

These include well-known brands such as the Boxes Group, Harlands, Guy's and Pharmagraphics.

Burgopak slides into international markets

2007-04-14T03:47:00.000-07:00

The Burgopak, a premium and versatile alternative to standard packaging formats, takes inspiration from the principle used in pop-up books, but in a more sophisticated form. Using an innovative belt-drive mechanism, the pack is opened smoothly with a pull on a tab, and pushing the tab closes it again. It is used for variety of goods including confectionery, cosmetics, electronics, pharmaceuticals, telecoms products, CD and DVD cases, toys, and special promotional packs.

Some of the high-profile applications of the design have been for Motorola's RAZR phone, the Spiderman 2 DVD, the Scissor Sisters most recent album - Ta Da - and a special edition pack for the Beckhams' World Cup 2006 party.

Other well-known clients include Microsoft, Porsche and Vodafone.

The Burgopak has a variety of benefits, beyond just giving a brand a higher perceived value.

It can become part of the product being sold, increases the amount of surface area which can be used for branding, creates a lasting impression, and it can also improve customer safety.

Their pharmaceutical product packs for example, is designed so that information about the drug is integrated into the packaging and so does not become separated from the pack, something which can happen with conventional pharmaceutical packaging.

The past two years have seen the company achieve a remarkable international expansion, with Burgopak targeting countries where consumers are demanding of high quality packaging.

Since 2005, the company has expanded from its London base to open offices in Boston, Washington, Chicago, Berlin, Hong Kong and Tokyo, along with a distribution centre in Sydney, and has increased from a staff of just four in 2005 to 35 today, and this is expected to reach 50 by the end of the year.

They have also produced nearly 20 million boxes in the past four years, which have comprised more than 400 designs, including 40 basic designs, six patents and one registered design.

As part of their export plans, they approached UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) for assistance with developing an presence in Japan, and in 2006 they signed up to UKTI's Passport to Export programme, which provides tailored and structured advice and support to help new and inexperienced exporters succeed in international trade.

It was this structured support they wanted in order to start operating in Japan.

They worked with UKTI International Trade Adviser Keith Moses and the commercial team at the British Embassy in Tokyo, who introduced them to suitable contacts among manufacturers, distributors and end clients and arranged translations of promotional material.

They are now in negotiations with several Japanese companies with deals likely to come to fruition in the next few months.

Burgopak has also established a local presence, with a Tokyo office opened in February and two Japanese designers recruited.

Burgopak is now looking at South Korea as another potential market, as opportunities in electronics packaging along with cosmetics and pharmaceuticals are strong.

They are working with UKTI to source relevant market information, potential suppliers and how to set up an office there, and have already held initial meetings in London with potential clients and packaging manufacturers.

Mark Whittaker, one of Burgopak's Directors said: 'I found UKTI very professional and they opened doors for us in new territories, giving us access to contacts we would not have found without them'.

ABB controls the robots at TOTAL

2007-03-27T03:58:00.001-07:00

ABB Robotics is launching its new fifth generation robot controller and PickMaster 5 software at Total Processing and Packaging at the NEC, Birmingham, 15-18 May.

Visitors to ABB Robotics' stand 5291 at the event will see a demonstration on how the controller, software and the ABB robot range combine to deliver a complete picking, packing and palletising offer for packaging lines. Recognising that some companies remain fearful of the perceived complexity of programming robot lines, the new PickMaster 5 software simplifies the integration of picking, packing and palletising operations via an intuitive interface. The PC based software uses comprehensive graphical interfaces to configure powerful applications, where up to 16 robots may work in a team alongside conveyor belts.

With many proven process functions built in to the single software product, PickMaster 5 efficiently minimises both the time and the risks in developing even complex palletising and packaging solutions.

PickMaster 5 is set to become the new industry benchmark in packaging robotics software, thanks to its flexibility, functionality, scalability and user-friendliness.

At the show the latest IRC5 robot controller will demonstrate how it sets new standards with its modular panel-mount concept, ergonomically designed portable interface and simplified operation for single or multiple robot cells.

Being specifically designed for panel mounting, it is ideal for system integrators and machine builders needs.

Easy integration with existing equipment designs, substantial space savings and exceptional versatility makes the IRC5 a cost effective investment that is readily expandable to meet future demands of users.

Also on display will be the IRB340 FlexPicker, the flexible robot solution for high-speed picking.

A demonstration will show how the FlexPicker is the fastest robot in the world, with 150 picks per minute and a payload up to 2 kg.

Kuka KR3 wins robot of the year

2007-03-27T03:57:00.000-07:00

KUKA Robotics Corporation has announced an injection molding cell using its KUKA KR3 robot won the Gold award in its division and was named the '2007 Robot of the Year'

The cell was designed, built, programmed and entered into the competition by the robotics team at Ohio Northern University's (ONU). The KUKA robot is one of seven robots that KUKA Robotics recently announced it had provided to ONU's Robotics Technology Center of Excellence.

'We are delighted to be a part of ONU's winning cell as the National Robotics Challenge is one of the premier robotics and engineering events in the nation featuring real world categories including best manufacturing robotic work cell and robotic problem solving,' said Stuart Shepherd president of KUKA Robotics.

'The students really have something to be proud of, since last fall they had nothing but a blank sheet of paper,' said Dr Adam Stienecker, assistant professor of technological studies at Ohio Northern University.

'The award-winning entry was made possible by their hard work and the KUKA robot which served as an important building block in the project.' The award winning cell featured the KUKA KR3 robot which processed poker chips within the injection molding cell.

The KUKA KR3 is a 6 axis robot which can be mounted on the floor, a table or ceiling.

It is capable of handling up to a 3kg payload and has a reach of 635mm.

Founded in 1871, Ohio Northern University, located in West Central Ohio, is a private university offering a diverse, dynamic and unique learning community, with rigorous professional programs in partnership with the arts and the sciences.

Its 3,500 students study for graduate and undergraduate degrees in five colleges: Arts and Sciences, Engineering, Business Administration, Pharmacy, and Law.

Ohio Northern takes pride in being a student-centered, service-oriented, values-based institution.

It is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

KUKA Robotics Corporation, with its parent company KUKA Roboter , Augsburg, Germany, is one of the world's leading manufacturers of industrial robots, with an annual production volume approaching 10,000 units, and an installed base of over 75,000 units.

The company's 5 and 6 axis robots range from 3kg to 570kg payloads, and 635mm to 3700mm reach, all controlled from a common PC based controller platform.

KUKA robots are utilized in a diverse range of industries including the appliance, automotive, aerospace, consumer goods, logistics, food, pharmaceutical, medical, foundry and plastics industries and in multiple applications including material handling, machine loading, assembly, packaging, palletizing, welding, bending, joining, and surface finishing.

PIAB to exhibit innovative vacuum solutions

2007-03-27T03:56:00.002-07:00

PIAB will be exhibiting its innovative vacuum solutions for the packaging and processing industries in Stand 5716 at Total Processing and Packaging 2007

The company's objective at the show will be helping industry professionals increase productivity utilizing the latest in vacuum technology. Automation specialization is offered by PIAB, assessing bottlenecks in production and delivering cost-effective solutions that address challenges like improved flexibility, speed and energy efficiency. Demonstrating quick and easy changeover to reduce downtime, the company will display the VGS 3010 (Vacuum gripper System), designed to increase material handling reliability at higher speeds during a variety of packaging applications such as carton erecting and palletizing.

PIAB's new Plastic Bag Handling Solution will also be exhibited to address packaging applications in the food, pharmaceutical, personal care and medical industries.

PIAB utilizes COAX in many of its original products and solutions like the VGS 3010 and Plastic Bag Handling Solution.

COAX technology offers a smaller, more efficient and highly flexible technology that allows for the design of a modular system, and is easily integrated into the body of manufacturing machinery with multistage cartridges.

Vacuum integration with the COAX Probe is ideal as a replacement for pumps and bodies in applications where there is restricted space.

Designing a fully decentralized solution with the latest in vacuum technology allows for fast, reliable response with less consumed energy.

In addition, PIAB will be exhibiting its Vactivator vacuum-handling cylinder, featuring automatic stroke control for a low-energy option ideal for fast and accurate control.

PIAB's complete line of C Series hygienic vacuum conveyors for powder and bulk applications, and IC Series of industrial vacuum conveyors, will also be on display.

EWAB conveying more sophisticated

2007-03-27T03:56:00.001-07:00

Market demand ever creates the need for more sophisticated conveying systems and EWAB Engineering has recently developed the CS Carrier system.

The CS carriers feature large guide rollers that not only enable loads of up to 1500 kg to be transported, but can even be rolled along the floor independently of the system. EWAB systems are utilised in production and assembly processes within the automotive industry, large supplier industries and other manufacturers of consumer and mass-produced goods. There is almost nothing the carrier systems developed by EWAB can't handle.

Whether used in industrial assembly or production lines, they safely convey even heavyweight work pieces to their intended destination.

The weight of the goods to be transported is distributed on side rollers in the case of CS carrier systems.

This means that even heavy loads and asymmetrical centres of gravity do not pose a problem.

Transport is by means of friction in relation to the chain, where a spring-mounted attachment ensures continuity of flow.

Because the system is not bound by predetermined timing, the availability of an assembly or production line is greatly increased.

All EWAB material flow systems are modular in design.

On the one hand we use our tried-and-tested standard components, such as tracks, curves and deflectors, as well as controller concepts.

On the other hand, our specialists do all in their power to meet individual requirements, whether in relation to layout, work piece carriers, positioning or flexibility of material flow.

Support rollers ensure that the work piece carrier is always stable.

This greatly enhances transport security.

In order to increase flexibility, work piece carriers can be equipped with a data carrier.

Thus, the material flow system is also transformed into an information flow system that can be used to trace work piece data.

Further analyses are also possible (e.g machine data entry (MDE), OEE evaluation, etc.).

Economy belt conveyors look no further

2007-03-27T03:55:00.000-07:00

Price matters with economy belt conveyors from Automation Supplies.
If you are looking for a belt conveyor for general conveying applications then you could save serious investment funds by speaking with Automation Supplies. With probably the widest range of conveyors available form one source, the engineers at Automation Supplies will pinpoint the right conveyor at the right price for your application. Economy belt conveyors from Automation Supplies have a motorised roller or external motor drive.

Available in aluminium or steel construction, these conveyors are simple yet reliable and there are a multitude of options depending on the environment or the process that the conveyor will carry out.

Broadly, the construction is based on weight requirements and roller capacity.

With guide figures for the weight capacity of the economy belt conveyors like 80mm drive roller =15kg/M and 113mm roller = 25kg/m, these conveyors are not low capacity.

The standard widths available are from 300 to 1200mm.

Lengths up to 30m are possible.

There are stand systems and side rails available.

A key feature of the economy belt conveyor range is the guide or 'Tracking' cleats on belt underside of the belt.

This cleat travels in a slot on the conveyor bed to guarantee belt tracking at all times under all conditions.

Low profile versions are also available and you can check example prices on the Automation Supplies website by following the 'Price Checker' logo.

The 'Price Checker' scheme is intended to illustrate the different real time price levels for conveyors, demystify the price differential of all the different conveyor systems available on the website by showing the customer actual prices recently quoted to other customers.

Apart from competitive prices and quality products, Automation Supplies can use their wide knowledge of the conveyor market to offer help and advice, as well as design assistance.

Stretchwrappers on display at Total

2007-03-23T00:04:00.001-07:00

The acclaimed range of stretchwrapping equipment from Orion Packaging Systems (UK) will be showcased at the Total Processing and Packaging event in Birmingham from 15-18 May 2007.

Orion, one of only a handful of UK manufacturers of stretchwrapping machinery, will display a variety of pallet wrappers, orbital wrappers and reel wrappers, as well as a selection of materials handling equipment. The company has recently diversified into this area to offer a more complete service for clients. Orion's products are supplied into a wide range of industries, with clients including Netto, Lyreco, Dairy Farmers of Britain, Affordable Window Systems and Zotefoams plc.

The company also supplies all consumable needs as well as offering training and maintenance by its own team of engineers.

All products are designed and built to order from domestically-sourced components at Orion's Herefordshire manufacturing facility.

Walter Williams, Managing Director of Orion Packaging Systems (UK) , commented: 'Our company is geared up to supply bespoke equipment to meet any stretchwrapping need in any sector'.

'Unlike other suppliers, we design and manufacture all our machines to order so the customer knows they are getting a machine built to their specific requirements rather than just an off the shelf product.' Established in 1987, Orion is today one of only a handful of UK-owned manufacturers of end of line stretchwrapping equipment for palletised and unpalletised goods.

Orion offers a full range of automatic and semi-automatic systems, available either as stand-alone units or fully integrated into the production line.

It has also diversified into materials handling, giving customers access to the complete offering for product movement and packaging prior to despatch.

Aetna contract for 3rd horizontal stretch wrapper

2007-03-23T00:01:00.002-07:00

Aetna UK has won a contract to install the 3rd Robopac Spiror 400HP spiral stretch wrapper for Metal Technology at their site in Antrim, Northern Ireland.

One of the UK and Ireland's leading architectural aluminium systems companies, Metal Technology specialises in the innovative design and distribution of purpose designed fenestration systems, offering fabricators, developers and architects glazing solutions for modern window, door and curtain walling construction. Calvin Wilson, Metal Technology's sales director explained why they needed a 3rd Spiror. 'The two existing spiral stretch wrappers are working very well, but we are developing a new production factory next to our current facility and need additional capacity to meet the increase in demand and to ensure continuity in the packaging for all our products'.

'The stretch wrapper is equipped with all the features required to wrap aluminium without damage.

Features such as polyurethane drive rollers, automatic top pressure rollers, infeed and outfeed conveyors and automatic side roller adjustment, are ideal for a demanding duty cycle with random cross sectional pieces.

The 400 model can handle product groupings from 25mm to 300mm wide and from 20mm to 200mm tall without adjustment.

Minimum length 800mm, maximum length is infinite.

For larger sections, Robopac make 8 different ring sizes up to a maximum 2500mm.

A touch screen display and the ability to store 10 separate programs which can be recalled in seconds, comes as standard.

The Spiror 400HP is fully guarded to CE standard and has electronically variable conveyor and ring speeds to give optimum film overlap and linear speed.

Standard 250mm wide film can be used from 15 to 50 microns thick, both plain and printed.

Aetna's managing director Mark Tucker explains why the Spiror has become so popular.

'One big advantage that the Spiror gives all customers is that the use of stretch film is both cheap and highly effective in keeping the packs tight during transportation'.

'Transport 'fretting' has always proved a problem for boxed goods and previously, aluminium coaters and painters have used tissue paper and strapping, to try and deliver their products in pristine condition to the end user.' Added Tucker 'The Spiror has a maximum linear speed of 30 m per minute, which means that the time to wrap products quietly and safely has been dramatically reduced'.

'Stretch film holds the individual pieces so tightly that they cannot vibrate together'.

'Also because the load is spread over a larger area than, say plastic strapping, there is no risk of distortion and the end user benefits by having less packaging waste to dispose.' Aetna UK provides after sales service from their offices in Bedford.

They also use their own regionally based UK engineers and advisors to support their many customers and believe that their team, which has been in place for many years, is now the most experienced in the United Kingdom.

Aetna says that this is the area in which they have a serious advantage over their competitors and are confident that it is this level of service that has made them market leaders.

Mobile option for horizontal strapping

2007-03-23T00:01:00.001-07:00

Unwieldy or fragile palletised or non-palletised products can now be safely strapped, thanks to an innovative new horizontal strapping system, exclusively available in the UK from Cyklop UK .

Unwieldy or fragile palletised or non-palletised products can now be safely strapped, thanks to an innovative new horizontal strapping system, exclusively available in the UK from Cambridgeshire-based Cyklop UK. The Cyklop D-53 is a lightweight, mobile unit suited to low to medium volume applications and sectors such as fresh produce and flowers, offering greater consistency, protection and time savings when compared to strapping by hand. The D-53 is simply pushed up to the load via buffers and the wheels locked in place.

The strapping head is then moved by light touch control to the required height, with the operator taking the strap around the load and feeding it back into the other side of the strapping head.

The machine then automatically tensions, seals and cuts the strap in the optimal position to minimise waste.

To negate any possibility of damage to the product or container, both the length of the strap dispensed and strapping tension are easily controlled by turning a knob.

The machine can also be operated manually via push button control for more complex applications, for example, when edge protectors need to be inserted between the load and the strap.

Here, the operator can retract and tighten the strap at will to achieve the appropriate tension before sealing using the external control lance.

Available as either mains or battery powered, the Cyklop D-53 can accommodate polypropylene strap of between 6mm and 16mm, depending on the application, which is heat sealed for fast, reliable load securement.

It can cope with pallets up to 2318mm in height.

David Hearn, Managing Director of Cyklop UK , commented: 'The D-53 is a highly cost-effective option for any company needing to strap fragile product for protection or perform horizontal strapping at differing heights and in multiple locations'.

'It is fast and easy to use, while offering effective use of the consumable and saving considerable time over hand strapping.'

Strapex solution for ASDA

2007-03-23T00:00:00.000-07:00

A tailored end of line strapping solution supplied by sector leader Strapex is helping to ensure prompt delivery of a wide variety of goods to Asda stores across the UK.

Asda's Integrated Distribution Centre, one of four Asda sites at Lutterworth in Leicestershire, is responsible for the distribution of a wide variety of stock - ranging from toys and balloons to seasonal goods - to both regional centres and stores. Although many of the goods handled at the IDC are relatively slow moving, there is still a need to get them on the way to stores as soon as they are requested to ensure there is no disruption to availability to customers. The smaller items are picked and packed into totes which then need to be rapidly and firmly secured to wheeled dollies for safe handling.

This task is undertaken by two Strapex VSS30.357 semi-automatic vertical strapping machines which are operational 24 hours a day, seven days a week, strapping around 3,600 loads each day between them.

The dollies are pushed into the machine, positioned, and the strap applied, tensioned, sealed and cut.

They are then transported to the despatch area.

On arrival at the store, the plastic strap can simply and quickly be cut off and safely disposed of.

Scott Macpherson of Strapex added: 'This application shows clearly the robustness and reliability of our strapping equipment, which continues to help us secure major commissions from big-name players such as Asda.' Strapex is one of the world's leading suppliers of end of line strapping and stretchwrapping equipment.

A wide range of fully and semi automatic machinery, hand tools and consumables is available, along with full training and ongoing product support.

The company's UK headquarters are in Aldridge, Walsall.

Non-contact transfer does not damage surfaces

2007-03-22T23:53:00.003-07:00

Non-contact transfer does not damage surfaces Non contact transfer units handle different kinds of surfaces without damaging them, such as hot, cold, uneven, sensitive, dirty or even porous surfaces. Bosch Rexroth's Non Contact Transfer (NCT) series units enable designers, makers and users of automation systems to handle products with all kinds of different surfaces without the risk of damaging them. The units use the Bernouilli principle and a positive pressure air supply provides the non-contact lift.

As a result, products with hot, cold, uneven, sensitive, dirty or even porous surfaces can be lifted safely with ease.

'The NCT range provides a solution for those tricky handling problems where mechanical grippers or vacuum cups would certainly have caused damage to delicate and expensive products', said Stuart Cheyne, product manager for Bosch Rexroth.

'Not only do the non-contact transfer units succeed in previously virtually impossible applications, they do it without the need for any extra equipment to create a vacuum supply, such as vacuum pumps or generators'.

'This gives our customers a total solution that is highly compact, has no wearing parts at all and only needs a supply of clean, dry compressed air.' The development of NCT technology was driven by the needs of the semiconductor industry to be able to handle expensive silicone wafers carefully and without contact.

Having been successful in this sector, the main benefits of the technology quickly transferred to other industries facing similar handling problems including pharmaceuticals, food and printing.

Notable applications include: handling CDs and DVDs; picking optical lenses without touching the main lens area; and lifting 'leaky' objects such as electronic printed circuit boards peppered with small perforations.

Paper and plastic bags are also being processed using this technology.

The NCT units use Bernoulli's principle that in essence states that as the speed of a fluid increases, the pressure within it decreases.

The principle is often demonstrated by blowing between two sheets of paper and witnessing the higher external pressure push the two sheets together.

Bosch Rexroth's NCT units harness this principle.

Positive airflow under the device creates a lifting force between the centre and circumference.

Thanks to the continuous air flow, the lifted object never actually attaches itself to the NCT surface, allowing precision handling of delicate items.

Also, because there are no moving parts, NCT units offer a true non-wearing solution.

The NCT range currently comprises four different sized units measuring 20, 30, 40 and 60mm diameter.

Corresponding lifting forces at 5bar are: 0.9, 1.3, 2.0 and 6.0N.

Consequently, the maximum lift capability is 900g.

Depending on size, the weight of the anodised aluminium units ranges from 0.02 to 0.124kg, while air consumption ranges from 100 to 210lit/min.

Working pressure for the non-lubricated compressed air supply is 1 to 7bar.

Ambient operating temperature is 5 to 60C.

Non-contact transfer does not damage surfaces

2007-03-22T23:53:00.001-07:00

Strapex block booking

2007-03-22T23:52:00.001-07:00

Thomas Armstrong (Holdings) is based at Rowlands Gill, near Newcastle upon Tyne. The company manufactures a comprehensive range of aerated, lightweight and dense aggregate load bearing concrete blocks using the very latest aircrete production technology, which are supplied to both housebuilders and builders merchants across the north of England. The company is a long-standing user of horizontal strapping equipment to secure the void packs of blocks in the correct position, ready to be moved by fork lift truck to the despatch area.

Reliable strapping is critical not just for optimal pack presentation but also for health and safety reasons given the weight of the blocks, so when the company decided to invest in new equipment, the Strapex H40U-C fully automatic horizontal strapping machine was the obvious choice.

Ian Geddes of Thomas Armstrong explained: 'We had used Orgapack Strapex equipment for a number of years and had been very happy with its performance'.

'By staying with the company, we also did not need to retrain staff in using unfamiliar equipment.' When the blocks leave the kiln, they are lifted by a gripper arm and stacked four or five levels high on a conveyor.

The load is then transferred to the strapper where, depending on the height, one or two straps are applied, tensioned, sealed and cut.

The new machine is currently strapping up to 500 packs each day.

Ian Geddes continued: 'The other factor in our choice was versatility - the machine needed to be able to cope with four or five different sizes and shapes of packs without time-consuming reprogramming'.

'The Strapex H40U-C is very simple to use and downtime is kept to an absolute minimum'.

'We are delighted with our choice and the strapping quality being achieved.' Scott Macpherson of Strapex added: 'Thomas Armstrong's reputation is built on significant investment the very best materials and technology available and we are proud to be a part of that'.

'The construction industry tests the durability and performance of strapping equipment to the limit and it is a sector where we continue to invest and achieve long-term partnerships with many leading players.' Strapex is one of the world's leading suppliers of end of line strapping and stretchwrapping equipment.

A wide range of fully and semi automatic machinery, hand tools and consumables is available, along with full training and ongoing product support.

Floor Panel Palletising Cell uses Mitsubishi Robot

2007-03-22T23:51:00.002-07:00

The Totnes company modelled the custom-designed cells on its Cosimir 3D simulation software and employed finite element analysis to perfect the construction of the special vacuum pick-up tool. Each cell incorporates Mitsubishi's latest 12kg class of 6-axis articulated robot, the RV-12SL, to offload the incoming 11kg floor panels and stack them onto pallets, inverting every other one for quality control purposes. The fully integrated material handling cells also feature Interoll powered conveyor rollers, EcoSafe modular protective barriers and interlocked Sick C2000 safety light grids for safeguarding the pallet access apertures.

Kingspan, market leaders in raised access flooring, producing 150,000 panels each week, commissioned the three cells primarily for health and safety reasons, given restrictions on manual lifting, although Engineering Manager, Stephen Williams, also anticipates substantial productivity gains.

The first cell has already been installed by Barr and Paatz, meeting a very demanding eight-week timescale.

It is expected that Kingspan will now explore further applications for robotics technology.

Part of the international Kingspan building group, recognised throughout the construction industry for innovation, design and technical quality, the Access Floors division on Humberside was recently awarded the Specialist Flooring Contractor title, by Building magazine.

The company's modular, raised access floor system is literally an elevated platform above an existing, usually concrete floor, comprising load bearing panels supported by adjustable vertical pedestals.

The underfloor space provides for the housing and distribution of internal services, the readily removable panels providing quick and easy access to power, data, telecoms and HVAC systems.

Normally 600mm square, the industry standard module size, the access floor panels consist of a high density particle board core encapsulated in galvanised steel, their unique wraparound construction making for ready removal and replacement.

Each panel has a decorative upper surface, although a bonded carpet or tile finish is optional, is around 31mm thick, has a Class 0 fire rating and is extremely solid underfoot.

In production, the steel envelope and particle board core are bonded together using high performance adhesives, which take up to two days to become fully cured.

Thus for palletising, previously cured panels, know internally as 'sacrificial' items, are used to top and tail each stack of newly produced product, although in fact the sacrificial panels are perfectly usable.

Alternative floor panels are also inverted to protect their decorative surface and ensure they reach the customer in mint condition.

The Barr and Paatz designed robot cell accepts each new batch of panels from a fork lift, the use of Interoll powered conveyor wheels, rather than full width rollers, allowing the track to move right into the conveyor system for ease of unloading.

This infeed aperture in the EcoSafe barrier system is fringed by Sick safety light guards, which are interlocked with the robot controller for finger and hand protection.

The Mitsubishi RV-12SL articulated arm robot then picks up each panel from the infeed conveyor, inverts every second tile and stacks them on a standard wooden pallet, with 'sacrificial' panels automatically placed top and bottom of each stack.

With a payload of 12kg, a working reach of 1384mm and speeds up to 9500mm/second, as well as six degrees of freedom, the RV-12SL was ideal for this particular application, at a highly affordable price.

Furthermore, since the Cosimir robot simulation system supports the Mitsubishi range and material flow control system, Barr and Paatz was able to model and simulate the entire work cell for Kingspan, enabling the customer to finalise the contract with a high degree of confidence.

The pick-up tooling, incorporating three pneumatic vacuum cups, was designed and manufactured employing FEA software, to apply simulated loads to the design.

The resulting custom-made lightweight aluminium frame is strong enough to support the 11kg panels, yet does not impose unnecessary loads on the robot arm or compromise its 12kg payload capacity, thereby eliminating over-specification and unnecessary extra cost.

Some 20metres of 2.2m high EcoSafe protective barriers, each comprising an aluminium frame and black steel mesh for enhanced visibility, were used to fence off each cell and meet the highest health and safety standards.

This barrier system was coupled with interlocked light guards at the infeed and outfeed apertures, to provide personnel safety without constantly interrupting the robot action.

'Barr and Paatz offered us an effective solution and we took up references with existing clients, so we knew they could deliver,' says Kingspan's Stephen Williams.

'We are very happy with their work and now plan to speed up throughput generally, to take advantage of the improvements in palletising productivity'.

'Certainly, we can foresee more robotics technology being introduced to automate other processes.'

Growth in robotic partnering

2007-03-22T23:51:00.001-07:00

ABB Robotics Consumer Industries Division has announced significant growth within its Partner Network

There is a trend among end users and integrators to call on the services of specialists with expertise in the food, beverage, packaging and pharmaceuticals sectors. Recognising that few plant engineers within manufacturing companies have the prerequisite skills to integrate robots into existing and new plant, ABB Robotics has established its Partner Network of experienced experts in robotics and automation integration. While modern robot systems are now easy to program and operate, the specification, installation and optimisation remain areas of specialist expertise.

Factors such as product handling (gripper technology), packaging technology, hygiene and machine vision all play key roles within the overall electromechanical, electronic and software solution.

There has been a growth in the number of packaging system integrators, but these businesses must have strong partnerships with both end users and robotics suppliers if their systems are to be efficient and cost effective.

ABB Robotics believes that the way forward is the establishment of formal alliances, since this enables information, technology and experience to be shared in a mutually secure manner to the benefit of the end user.

The ABB Robotics Partner Network not only enables system integrators, machine builders and consultant companies to gain access to project opportunities, but also provides a forum for regular exchange of information and know-how.

'The partnership concept is a growing trend in automation for consumer industries where the services of system integrators are now used in all sorts of installations,' commented Frank-Peter Kirgis of ABB Robotics Consumer Industries Division.

'Robotic technology demands a similar approach, and the ABB Partner Network is helping to create a broader knowledge base in the marketplace'.

Marden Edwards expertise shown off

2007-03-22T23:49:00.002-07:00

Marden Edwards stand at this year's Total will include two individual pack overwrappers, including the new Evo-Fold low cost overwrapper and a high speed W200s, plus a B125LH8 collating overwrapper.

The Evo-Fold, which is being exhibited for the first time, is the latest development from Marden Edwards. It has been designed specifically to appeal to customers who are new to overwrapping and are looking to improve the presentation of their products. Using experience gained over the past 40 years, Marden Edwards has managed to produce a machine offering fully automatic operation at speeds up to 40 packs a minute over a wide range of pack sizes, at an entry-level price.

The WR200s is a high speed overwrapping machine capable of running at speeds up to 150 packs a minute.

It is a compact and robust unit featuring fast and simple size changes and is one of a range of high speed machines built in Marden Edwards' German factory, which also includes options capable of handling up to 300 packs a minute.

The B125LH8 is a compact overwrapping machine with an integral collation unit.

The use of overwrapping as a method of collating and wrapping distribution and transit packs is increasing in popularity throughout industry as the drive to reduce costs, be able to use bio-degradable films and improve product quality continues and the B125LH8 is just one of a number of options offered by Marden Edwards which meets these needs.

Strapex clinches block deal

2007-03-22T23:49:00.001-07:00

The UK's leading producer of concrete masonry blocks has committed to a long-term six-figure spend which marks the beginning of a process of standardisation in its UK manufacturing facilities, equipping them with strapping equipment provided by sector leader, Walsall-based Strapex. Tarmac Topblock, a member of the Tarmac Group, operates from 13 sites across the UK. The company produces concrete and aircrete blocks (commonly known as breeze blocks) which are used in the construction of both domestic and industrial buildings.

These are supplied mainly to builders' merchants although some are delivered direct to construction companies as well.

Typically each site produced in excess of 1 million sq metres of blocks each year.

Before transportation, the blocks are stacked either in four of five tier 'cubes' of 18 blocks per tier, weighing up to 1.2 tonnes, or in 'void packs' with gaps to allow access by a forklift truck.

Each type of pack requires strapping to hold the blocks in place during transportation; the cubes are strapped with two horizontal bands, while four vertical lengths of strap secure the void packs.

The company has been using strapping as its main method of load securement for a number of years but concerns over strapping quality led it to re-examine the technology it was using.

Jeremy Thompson, Asset Manager for Tarmac Topblock, explained: 'We had been using a horizontal banding machine which generally did a reasonable job but we did occasionally experience damage to the blocks and the machine if the package entered at slightly the wrong angle and was not detected by the sensors and the mechanism came into contact with the top of the cube.' 'We needed new equipment which was durable enough to cope with our harsh production environment and also strong enough to hold the loads in place without damaging them, while providing long-term machine reliability and low maintenance cost.' 'We investigated all of the leading suppliers in the sector, carrying out extensive tests, but were particularly impressed by the Strapex Endra machine's design, with the strap held across the flow of the conveyor and the strap then being passed around the rear of the load which avoids potential for block / strapping machine collision.' 'The machine delivers consistent strapping quality with optimal tension and our consumable costs have been reduced significantly'.

'We feel the Strapex equipment is the best technically thanks to its unique clutchless design, while its running costs are low and required maintenance appears to be minimal.' The machine supplied to the Newark site is a special build machine which can strap two packs in one cycle.

The company is now seeking to extend the use of Strapex equipment to all of its sites, with three vertical strapping machines scheduled to be installed in the next three months.

Jeremy Thompson continued: 'We had previously been using steel strap for vertical strapping but the high cost, difficulty in cutting, and health and safety ramifications of loose steel strap on building sites, have convinced us that plastic is the best way forward'.

'This is especially so given that with correct tensioning, there is no loss in strapping quality.' 'We are committed to the very highest standards in load securement and see our continued investment in Strapex equipment as being integral to that.' Scott MacPherson of Strapex added: 'Tarmac is the biggest name in construction products in the UK and we are delighted to have been selected as a long term partner by Tarmac Topblock'.

'We have worked closely with them to produced machines tailored to their precise requirements and look forward to a strong partnership in the future.' Strapex is one of the world's leading suppliers of end of line strapping and stretchwrapping equipment.

A wide range of fully and semi automatic machinery, hand tools and consumables is available, along with full training and ongoing product support

Toolmaker to benefit from versatile tryout presses

2007-02-15T21:39:00.002-08:00

All five ram cylinders and four cushion cylinders can be independently set and controlled in four hydraulic tool-try-out presses delivered by AP and T in Sweden to Horst Matzner in Germany.

All five ram cylinders and four cushion cylinders can be independently set and controlled in four hydraulic tool-try-out presses delivered by AP and T in Sweden to Horst Matzner in Germany. Of the four presses, the ZF-25000, rated at 25MN, is the largest tool tryout press yet supplied by AP and T. The four presses are rated at 4000kN and 12.5, 16 and 25MN.

Each has five ram cylinders and can be set for using one, three, or five cylinders at once, while the four die cushions can be pre-set individually.

Horst Matzner Fertingungstechnik, located in Bissendorf, Germany, recently set up shop to supply press tools to Audi, BMW, Daimler-Chrysler, Ford, Jaguar, Opel, Rover, Seat, Skoda, Volkswagen and Volvo.

Matzner was particularly impressed by the flexibility of the AP and T product, short delivery times, the compactness and low roof height of the presses and close involvement with the customer throughout the project, which commenced with the first project review in late 1999.

The last press, the ZF-25000, was delivered this March.

There are number of aspects of the presses worth noting.

Compactness is achieved by what AP and T call its 'Fishtail' ram guides which keep the press frame together laterally and prevents the ram (or slide in US parlance) and press bed from getting out of line.

FEM (finite element method) has determined frame design, originally determined through dynamic simulation of forces based on FEA data.

The result is a maximum floor height (above the press shop floor) of 9.1m for the 2500kN unit.

The four presses stand in a common pit and each is served by an articulated platform, which lines up with each press bed and so simplifies tool access and changeover.

The ram cylinders can be programmed to operate the centre cylinder only, or a diagonal of the centre cylinder with two corner cylinders, or all five together.

Each of the four cushions can be programmed independently, so off-centre loading of tooling can be simulated under try-out conditions.

Press action control is by a joystick, which controls press speeds at 1 - 9mm/sec.

A button on the joystick dumps pressure from all cylinders.

Press control is based on Siemens S7 PLC system running AP and T's graphical Windows NT-based MC32 user interface.

MC32 gives complete programming freedom, says AP and T, in that all nine hydraulic cylinders can be programmed independently.

Also cylinder operation can be configured sequentially, that is, one cylinder does not act until another has completed its cycle (one imagines stripper and ejector operations, or blankholder operations - Ed).

Horst Matzner also opted for AP and T's service package for modem-based fault-finding.

Each press is equipped with a modem, so when a fault occurs, AP and T1s technicians dial up the modem and perform an initial service within minutes of an error report.

An interesting aside is that the waste heat generated by the hydraulic pumping systems is channelled into Horst Ratzner's factory heating system.

Automotive supplier invests in two press lines

2007-02-15T21:39:00.001-08:00

Automotive industry Tier 2 supplier, Weser Metall Umformtechnik near Kassel, Germany, has invested DM4.6m (GBP1.44m) in two automated tandem press lines.

Dieffenbacher Automation supplied the lines and orchestrated the automation. The project involved the interfacing of 17 FANUC part-handling robots with 11 power presses.

Weser1s investment is typical of the press shop modernisation that is happening around Europe.

OEMs want sequenced, just-in-time delivery of pressings and fabricated assemblies.

Weser decided to automate the press shop and speed up tool changeovers and so shorten production campaigns and so reduce in-house stocks.

Weser has also adopted Dieffenbacher Automation1s PC-based Superset Line Control using ProfiBus technology.

The Superset covers centralised start-up and shutdown of a press line and centralised management of press line setting parameters.

The system overviews sheet blank stocks, the FANUC blank-loading robots, blank lubrication, the co-ordination of robot programs and automated zero-setting.

Detailed screen graphics simplify error detection by showing the status of all presses.

Dieffenbacher1s main activity has been in the automation of existing press lines and the supply of new press lines to the domestic appliances industry.

German press lines produce Russian gas meters

2007-02-15T21:38:00.004-08:00

Dieffenbacher has delivered a press line to a Russian manufacturer of gas meters located near Moscow.

Two parallel hydraulic press lines are producing 720 gas meter cases/h. Included is a mechanical blanking press of 1000kN supplied with 500kg of steel sheet/h from a large scale decoiling and straightening line.

Blanks are automatically positioned in a magazine.

A conveyor transports blanks to a lubricant station, and then blanks are centred and elevated to the correct transfer level.

A 2-axis gripper transfers the blank through five forming operations and eight intermediate holding stations.

The head press is rated at 2500kN and has a blankholder pressure of 600kN via the die cushion.

The follow-on press is single-acting, with a capacity of 2000kN for performing second and third operations.

The second operation is a calibration stage, embossing the flange and bottom areas of the pressing.

The third stage carries out trimming and punching.

A second 2000KN press uses cam tooling to emboss the pressing and perform further punching operations.

A robot at the end of each line loads completed pressings to a chain conveyor for processing through a washing plant.

CNC press brakes are easier to program

2007-02-15T21:38:00.003-08:00

The latest range of low cost, four-axis CNC hydraulic press brakes will be shown for the first time at EMO 2001 in Hannover, featuring the rigidity and accuracy of the existing LVD PPEB machine range but with a totally new control allowing simple on machine program input to cover most general bending operations. The LVD PPEB-4C, now available from LVD (UK) of Marlow, reflects a cost advantage of some 20 per cent against the normal higher specification control PPEB press brake series. The range covers 800kN with 1500mm working bed length to 2200kN and 4000mm bed length.

Strokes are 200mm and 250mm on the largest machine in the range.

All machines have a 400mm gap, accept Euro-style tooling and are fitted with LVD's recently introduced Lazer Safe integrated guarding system as standard which can reduce operational times by up to 25 per cent.

The new press brake range accommodates users not requiring the sophistication of the full CADMAN CNC control fitted to LVD machines which includes high level bending software.

However, the same precise servo control, using bed referenced Heidenhain encoders to prevent any deformation influencing the positional accuracy of the upper beam is included.

Indeed, such is the build philosophy of LVD that the 4C will provide the same level of bending capability with a significant price advantage.

The PPEB-4C has a standard two-axis (X and R) backgauge for depth and height with three gauge positions to accommodate flange sizes up to 1000 mm using the material support function.

Lateral adjustment of the fingers is manual from the front of the machine.

The control fitted to the new machine is very easy for operators to program using two methods where the control calculates the developed length or the operator inputs the angle of bends and other parameters.

A clear backlit display and large keys make the task easier and the control can carry up to + 300 sequences, data for 20 punch and dies and 100 machine parameters.

Hydraulic presses' versatility ousts mechanicals

2007-02-15T21:38:00.001-08:00

Toolmaker and component specialist Westcut has completed the transformation of its press division into a fully hydraulic operation. The company has taken delivery of its second 63HP press - a 630kN multi-function hydraulic press - from PJ Hare to help with the increasing variety of its expanding workload. Richard Scott of Westcut, explained: 'The versatility of the hydraulic press was central to our decision to move from mechanical presses.

As a small engineering business specialising in short to medium production runs we needed machinery that could cope with a multitude of tasks.

Numerous tasks means numerous tool changes, hence we needed a press solution that, amongst other things, minimised downtime wherever possible.' Westcut's move to hydraulic presses was partly the result of good fortune as the availability of a reconditioned Hare press meant that they could trial the merits of hydraulics without the financial outlay on a brand new machine.

18 months down the line having proved its value, Westcut decided to switch their entire press operation from mechanical to hydraulic.

Richard Scott continued: 'The first press did everything that Hare said it would.

Tool setting was quicker, less maintenance was required, the combination of the close proximity of the optical guards to the work and the ease of access has helped speed up productivity, and we hope to see improved tool life due to the more controlled nature of the hydraulic stroke.' But it was an unanticipated advantage that sealed the decision for Westcut.

As a specialist toolmaker Westcut runs two highly sensitive wire erosion machines on the same shop floor as the presses.

Previously the company had to stagger its mechanical press usage around the wire erosion processes due to excessive vibrations transmitted through the floor upsetting the wire erosion machines.

The hydraulic presses, however, have eliminated this problem for all but the heaviest loads thus helping productivity throughout Westcut's 3,000ft2 plant.

William Hare, Managing Director of P J Hare, was enthusiastic that a relatively small engineering company had invested in the company's presses: 'Whilst hydraulic presses have many advantages over their mechanical counterparts, mechanical presses still have a stronghold on the UK manufacturing market.

One reason may be that the initial cost is higher.

We' re delighted that Westcut has had the opportunity to explore the flexibility and resultant productivity improvements that a hydraulic press can deliver.

Within 18 months the company has illustrated how productivity gains can make the superior machine pay for itself very quickly.' The new presses have allowed Westcut to manufacture components ranging from 25mm2 to 500mm x 300mm and simultaneously test its tooling applications in house for its clients.

Examples of their uses include blanking, coining, crimping, forming, marking and moulding.

This flexibility means that Westcut now intends to further enhance its set-up with an 800kN hydraulic press and automatic coil feeder systems for longer production runs.

Richard Scott concluded: 'When you're running a flexible press operation on premises of 3,000f2 you need to make sure that every piece of machinery optimises use of space.

The hydraulic presses have equipped us with the ability to service a large variety of clients and processes using the same machinery.

Pallet handling, accumulating chain conveyor

2007-02-10T03:14:00.001-08:00

Specialist dairy product manufacturer Lubborn Cheese of Somerset awarded Astec Conveyors the contract to design, install and commission a pallet handling, accumulating chain conveyor system and lowerator feeding into their cold store and distribution centre. As part of Lubborn Cheese expansion plans, an adjacent building was totally refurbished to provide a separate new chilled storage area, freeing up valuable factory floor space for increased production and packing facilities. A number of factors had to be carefully considered by Astec Conveyors when designing the system.

Firstly the pallet load was unstable, secondly loading/unloading from the conveyor was to be undertaken by powered manrider trucks, and also the adjoining floor levels differed in height by 3 metres.

Using their 50 years combined experience within the materials handling, processing and packing industry, Derbyshire based Astec Conveyors designed a pallet handling system that provided for a safe smooth transfer from the factory/packing area down into a chilled cold store warehouse.

Various shaped cheese products are positioned on 'single trip' 1200 x 800 euro sized pallets, to a maximum capacity of 500kg and 1800mm height.

Located in the packing area, a single pallet is fed onto the system with the 1200mm face leading, into a guarded loading station.

An operator starts the automated system by pressing an accept button to activate the systems, and the pallet moves forward to a stop position in front of a fire rated roller shutter access door.

Photo electric sensors monitor the presence of the loaded pallets within the system, and the lift and door will not operate until the next station is clear and the platform is located at the top access door.

Subject to the lift being clear and in the raised position, the fire door opens and permits the pallet to feed on to the platform.

A sensor indicates the pallets presence and signals for the door to be closed and only then will the lift lower to warehouse level.

On build back, the conveyor system will sequentially close down, with automatic restart when the build back sensor becomes clear; thus allowing accumulation of pallets throughout the system.

Lowerator System The safe and simple to operate chain driven pallet lowerator was designed and built by Astec Conveyors to provide a smooth continuous flow of mixed pallet loads and can be run in reverse.

Fitted with inverter control which provides for a smooth start and stop and ensures safe transfer of goods from the different floor levels.

The lift takes up minimal floor space, and due to its counter balanced design is both energy efficient and provides optimum lifting capacity.

The design criteria was to handle pallets of 500kg and 10 pallets per hour, the lift far exceeds these capabilities (1500kg/60 pallets).

Because of the need to remove pallets from the conveyor by manrider trucks, discharge from the lowerator is at ground level onto triple chain conveyors, which were designed at the outset to be sunk into the floor as part of the new building construction.

In-fill plates are fitted for cleanliness and safety reasons, with a strengthened 10mm thick plate being located at the end position to support trucks driving on/off.

To overcome possible 'dead areas' which can occur on transferring pallets on butted chain modules, Astec Conveyors incorporated a cost effective design feature, staggering the chains to ensure positive contact with the pallet base and provide continuous drive and smooth transfer.

The whole system was designed, manufactured and installed by Astec Conveyors, including the fully automated controls.

The system is guarded to provide a safe operating environment, incorporating fence guards and light barriers where appropriate.

A RAG beacon at the upper level gives a visual indication of the system status.

A message display on the main panel gives fault and line diagnostics at the lower level.

Mr Piers Feilden of Lubborn Cheese commented; 'Our new Astec lowerator has provided a perfect solution to our long term problem of integrating two existing buildings with differing floor levels.

All our operatives are happy using it and we look forward to it giving many years of service.'

Conveyor system takes cheese to cold store

2007-02-10T03:13:00.001-08:00

Specialist dairy product manufacturer, South Caernarfon Creameries of Pwllheli, awarded Astec Conveyors a GBP270k contract to design, manufacture, install and commission a complete conveying system to transfer blocks of cheese, vacuum packed in film or wrap around corrugated cases, from their hillside production plant down to a purpose built cool store some 300 metres away. Because of the terrain, this was a challenging project as it necessitated products being transported externally through a totally enclosed conveyor system mounted on platforms and walkways, over the dairy building, avoiding site services, crossing a road and spanning a river, prior to feeding into the new cheese reception area. Factory Manager of South Caernarfon Creameries, Mr Paul Jones commented, 'Previous to the new system, the fresh cheeses from production were transported by lorry to the opposite side of the factory site, involving internal transport, double handling and additional labour.

Therefore, in order to improve efficiencies and provide optimum hygienic operating conditions, we approached a number of materials handling companies to tender for the project.

Astec Conveyors were chosen because they offered a complete package - design, manufacture, installation and project management in-house.

This gave them control of the whole project from start to finish, and this in turn gave us the confidence of a 'one-stop' solution.

We think Astec offered the best solution for our needs, and took the time to plan for the future maintenance and life of the system.

They were prepared to look at options and evaluate them, rather than try to push us down a particular road that suited them.

All things considered, they provided an excellent package, delivered on time to the agreed costs'.

With so many third parties involved from planning authorities, architects, civil engineers, etc.

it was essential that Astec Conveyors took full responsibilities for Project Management to ensure minimum disruption to ongoing business and co-ordinate site operations to complete the project on time and within budget.

Corrugated cases or vacuum sealed packs of 20 kilogram blocks of warm cheese are fed onto the conveying system at a rate of 3 cases per minute.

Products discharged from the packaging machine are inspected for open flaps then either transferred onto the main conveyor system or are routed straight on to a reject line for securing and returning to the system.

The exterior conveyor is designed so that the side frames and underguarding form part of a totally enclosed watertight stainless steel tunnel, with strategically placed windows for visual inspection and checking of system functionality.

The conveyor is located on an overhead 6m high galvanised platform and walkway 1.5m wide (supplied as part of the contract) to facilitate safe and quick access to the system for maintenance purposes.

This construction is capable of spanning 15m, unsupported and therefore, avoided ground level disruption having to remove obstructions, and assist in spanning the driveway and river separating the existing buildings from the new cold store.

The conveyor supports are also manufactured from food quality non-corrosive stainless steel, with modular plastic belting being preferred to provide smooth transfer of 'soft to handle' product.

This medium also offers greater stability in handling products of various temperatures and avoids tracking problems.

Packs are conveyed via a series of modular belt conveyors to the manual stack down area in the cold store.

Due to the soft nature of the vacuum film packed cheeses, part of the design criteria was that the system had to be capable of accumulating products in a non-contact mode.

It was therefore decided to incorporate a number of indexing conveyors into the system to ensure that products could be accumulated in a pitched mode without pressure, and specifically to avoid pack to pack contact.

Under normal conditions the system acts as a transit conveyor operating at speeds up to 15 metres per minute, but when sensors indicate a build up in the reception areas the system goes into accumulating mode.

A series of six (5 metre) belt accumulating conveyors are located towards the end of the system and sequentially pulsed to accumulate pitched products on build back.

When the accumulating conveyors are full, the remainder of the transit conveyors are sequentially closed down and a signal is given to the secondary packaging machine to cycle stop.

A two line text display gives the operators visual line status information, and telephones located at either end of the system, enable operators to communicate and advise on such things as end of run, etc.

The system can accumulate approximately 30 minutes of production which relates to around 90 blocks of cheese, and is sequentially restarted when the build back sensors become clear.

As products enter the new cold store reception they accumulate on a low back pressure chain conveyor, feeding onto a brake metering which singulates the cheese blocks to pass through a metal detector, check weigher and labelling machine.

On completion the product is discharged down a small section of gravity roller conveyor to be manually unloaded and palletised to go into cold store.

Paul Jones commented on the commissioning of the project, 'The installation was managed by Astec Conveyors in conjunction with the main civil contractor on the site.

All the sections were delivered pre-fabricated to the site to provide minimum disruption to operations, and craned into position onto supporting steel work.

The installation itself was quick and effective, with the system being installed and commissioned within a short period of time.

The new system is operating 16 hours per day, 7 days per week, 364 days a year.

It has resulted in many positive benefits, increasing efficiencies, reducing operational costs and providing even greater hygienic standards for South Caernarfon Creameries products.

Growing facilities for conveyor maker

2007-02-10T03:12:00.002-08:00

UK manufacturer Astec Conveyors has bucked the trend of current markets to double its factory and office facilities.

Following success in sales of 'one-off' modular conveying solutions through to complete integrated turnkey systems including PLC controls, the directors of UK manufacturer Astec Conveyors bucked the trend of current markets to double their factory and office facilities. The decision to expand the manufacturing area was taken in light of an increase in new sales demand and to support repeat business from existing customers, leading Astec to purchase an 8,000 sq ft factory close by and, relocate early this year. The building is ideally suited with good access and a purpose built cranage system, which aids the movement of heavy engineered products such as large pallet elevators, etc.

Astec has also seen its workforce grow with the employment of a number of ex-Dunn System key personnel, who have brought with them many years of experience in their particular fields of specialisation.

From design and engineering of quality materials handling equipment, through to system integration, controls and automationand Astec Conveyors have provided handling solutions whilst working in strict confidence with other O.E.M's and directly with end users from various sectors including dairy and food, pharmaceuticals, distribution, packaging and processing.

Space saving Spiral Conveyor Astec sales director Roger Pendleton commented, 'As with all company moves, relocation of a business can be difficult, but we undertook the bulk of the removal work over a weekend period to ensure minimum disruption to on-going business.

It has been challenging and exciting times for Astec Conveyors.

Our systems know-how, coupled with Astec's manufacturing and fabrication capability, has enabled us to provide cost effective 'one-stop source' solutions to individual customers needs, which is becoming an important requirement particularly for larger establishments.

Astec Conveyors can also ensure continuity of spares and on-going services to support existing plant maintenance teams or as required.

Again, we are committed to attending the forthcoming PPMA exhibition and will use this event to launch our new range of spiral elevators.

So we look forward to new and exciting challenges as we continue to service the UK markets material handling needs.'

Cost effective material handling solutions

2007-02-10T03:12:00.001-08:00

Since moving to larger manufacturing premises, Astec Conveyors has invested in the latest engineering production equipment in order to provide cost effective material handling solutions.

Astec's Managing Director Adrian Smart reported 'We recently acquired a new 170K Trumpf TC2000R, incorporating high speed, innovative punching technology combined with an attractive cost-performance ratio. Complete with off-line programming, the machine uses state-of-the-art software to un-develop three dimensional components into flat sheet format and automatically nest the components to give maximum yield from each 3000 x 1250 sheet used.

The machine is capable of processing around 100 sheets per day of stainless or mild steel up to 6mm.

thick.' In conjunction with the above, the factory area has been extended to provide 2,000sq.ft.

of additional storage area on a mezzanine floor.

Astec Conveyors will continue to look for controlled growth, gaining efficiencies by procuring other automated machinery, and investing in qualified and experienced engineering people with a proven track record in materials handling.

Hub-style sortation system for delivery firm

2007-02-10T03:11:00.000-08:00

TNT's UK Network Development Team awarded Astec Conveyors the contract to design a materials handling system at their new GBP8.2 million Birmingham depot.

As part of TNT's ongoing strategy to expand in the global express distribution logistics and international mail, its UK Network Development Team awarded Astec Conveyors the contract to design a materials handling system at their new GBP8.2 million Birmingham depot. TNT claim this to be the first depot operation in the UK to be fitted with a hi-tech hub-style sortation system. Provided with an overview of the potential system layout, constraints and operating criteria, Astec Conveyors in conjunction with TNT went about designing a concept that would provide an effective reversible materials handling system that could be operated by both night and backshift workers.

Previous TNT depots highlighted floor congestion when transporting bulk goods and the high maintenance costs of flexible roller conveyors as the main problems with the existing equipment.

TNT's proposal to reduce ground floor congestion included the installation of a mezzanine floor with a raised sortation conveyor system.

This also was utilised to create a segregated area for handling very small packages and documents on the upper floor, whilst creating a better flow for bulk items and a marshalling area at ground floor level.

Inbound goods are off-loaded from collecting vehicles onto driven roller conveyors to be indexed to a checkpoint, where they are weighed and appropriate details printed on the delivery/routing label.

Following this procedure, parcels are merged and transported on a common close pitched powered roller conveyor, and up a reversible inclined belt conveyor to mezzanine floor height.

Astec designed special modular merge units with close pitched segmented rollers that minimise possible 'dead areas' to provide optimum merge / diverting capability for large parcels down to small jiffy bag items.

A barcode scanner checks and communicates information to the host TNT Universe computer and the sortation PLC system to ensure traceability, whilst performing the updates in 'real time'.

Items are then discharged down designated inclined/ declined belt conveyors onto telescopic boom conveyors and into awaiting trailers to be delivered to the hub for further sorting.

Returning outbound parcels from the hub are unloaded from trailers at the depot and fed onto the Astec sortation system to run in reverse, back up inclined/declined belt conveyors to the mezzanine floor, then through the barcode scanner.

Barcode labels on consignments are scanned and items transported back to floor level and diverted down designated lanes for van deliveries.

Astec Conveyors undertook the turnkey operation and project management, including supply of the mezzanine flooring.

The line control PLC and control gear was housed in a new 'wardrobe style' control panel with special software to interface to the host TNT Universe computer system.

Sales Director of Astec Conveyors, Roger Pendleton commented, 'As a manufacturer of materials handling equipment, with in-house expertise in control and automation, this enabled us to successfully control the over all project from concept to completion, on time and within budget.

We worked very closely with TNT management to ensure co-ordination of materials and labour onsite and tested the system at all stages to ensure we met their specified handling criteria to the full.

I would very much like to think Astec Conveyors will be going places with more TNT projects.'

Refurbishment and coating of hoppers, chutes

2007-02-10T03:10:00.000-08:00

A specialist engineering company has saved Tarmac more than GBP750,000 by solving a wearing problem on hoppers at the company's Hilton works..

Ace Arc, of Coalville, has completed the refurbishment of five aggregate storage hoppers and ten trouser leg chutes, which play an integral part in the production of dense aggregate blocks at Tarmac's Wolverhampton facility. The hoppers and chutes transport 500 tonnes of aggregate to the site's concrete mixer each day, and after 18 years of intensive use at the batch plant, they were showing severe signs of corrosion.

Tarmac's project manager, Tim Lovatt, comments: 'We were concerned that the corrosion was making the bins unsuitable for use.

We were already experiencing leakages and wanted to ensure that these did not develop further.' The Hilton plant produces 6,000 square metres of dense aggregate blocks each day for the building industry.

Replacing the batch plant was not an option for Tarmac, as to do so would mean closing the plant for more than a month and an outlay of over GBP500,000 for new equipment.

Ace Arc provided a cost effective solution that enabled the site to remain open and production continue.

Using 8 mm steel, engineers from the Ace Arc team relined the aggregate hoppers.

Four trouser leg chutes were lined with hardened wear plate to increase wear life and a further six chutes were coated with Cera-metalene to prevent aggregate particles from sticking to the sides, causing material build up, potential blockages and corrosion.

Mr Lovatt continues: 'We are really pleased with the work that Ace Arc has carried out for us at Hilton, which was done professionally and safely by experienced people who completed the job on time and within budget.

The work has ensured the lifespan and safety of our equipment for many years to come.' Ace Arc's general manager Scott Bailey said: 'Tarmac is a blue chip company that needed to ensure production at the plant continued while work was carried out.

We were able to provide a safe solution that enabled them to do this effectively.

Detectable elastomer compounded O-Rings

2007-02-10T03:09:00.000-08:00

E-Components and Chains has a new range of Detectamet metal detectable elastomer compounded O-Rings specifically developed to meet the stringent demands of the food and pharmaceutical industries. The New Detectamet range of O-Rings includes FDA compliant grades of EPDM, Niitrile and Fluorocarbon (FKM) compounds. Available in blue, white and black, Detectamet O-Rings have been tested and proven in use at leading food and pharmaceutical manufacturing / processing plants.

Fragments of Detectamet as small as 2mm can be identified by metal detector equipment.

Features of Detectamet O-Rings include: * Early detection and containment of contamination * Reduced product loss * Increased productivity * FDA compliant elastomer materials * Free from animal derived ingredients * Tempertaure range from - 40 Degress C to + 200 Deegress C * Blue seals to assist in easy identification * Detectamet compounds can be moulded into O-Rings and custom components * ECC supplies Detectamet O-rings from 0.25mm to over 2 metres in diameter, in any combination of ID and cross section, both in small quantities and large volumes.

E-Components and Chains are confident the New Detectamet O-Rings will contribute to their fast ever growing range of Detectable Products constantly being used and specified by some of the worlds leading food and pharmaceutical manufacturing / processing industries.

Electronic alarms protect sensitive hydraulics

2007-01-04T01:48:00.000-08:00

Hydraulic system oil level and temperature management is a crucial factor in plant maintenance, especially in high performance equipment and in warm climates. This is addressed by the Elesa HCX/E+ST column level indicator with electronic alarms for level and temperature of oil reservoirs on expensive equipment such as earth moving or construction machinery. The HCX/E+ST is specifically designed to give a clear visual indication of oil level and incorporates a minimum fluid level alarm as well as a maximum temperature alarm (normally set at 800C) with standard 2 pin connector and may operate with AC or DC.

For OEM's who provide equipment overseas, or for operations in hot climates and look to safeguard vulnerable equipment in these unusually high temperatures, the HCX/E+ST offers a valuable level of protection.

Whether conditions involve continuously high temperatures or where equipment is used on narrow operating margins, this level indicator offers a simple safeguard against expensive repairs and downtime.

Hydraulics equipment range extended

2007-01-03T01:47:00.000-08:00

Kurt Hydraulics has expanded its offering to include a complete line of couplings and hose, making Kurt the new alternative in the hydraulics industry. Directly interchangeable with other popular brands and crimping systems, all Kurt Hydraulics couplings and hose meet SAE specifications. With over 35 years experience manufacturing hydraulic connectors, Kurt now offers over 1500 items manufactured at their U.S.

based facility.

Kurt Couplings are manufactured to the highest quality for both industrial and commercial applications including construction, agricultural, mining and plant maintenance equipment.

Kurt's hydraulic hose products include SAE 100R1, R2, R16, R17, R12, 4SH, and R13.

Stainless steel Teflon SAE 100 R14 hose is offered for high temperature and corrosive fluids along with barrier refrigerant hose, jack hose, and SAE 100R4 suction hose.

Couplings are offered in hundreds of configurations and sizes.

Included in the Kurt coupling line are metric hose couplings, R2 reusable couplings, spiral hose couplings, JJ R13 couplings, and Teflon, R5, and beadlock couplings.

Kurt offers 95 percent out-of-stock fill rates, competitive pricing and fast delivery.

High pressure sensor has temperature output

2007-01-02T01:47:00.000-08:00

New from Balluff Limited for 2005 is the new BHS high pressure rated sensor for hydraulic cylinders, rated for up to 500 bar. It offers both piston position sensing and temperature acquisition for implementing comprehensive monitoring and diagnostics functions. This is the right sensor wherever the cylinders are subjected to high temperatures, such as hydraulic cylinders on high temperature injection moulds or other high performance hydraulic systems whose hydraulic fluids can reach high temperatures.

The model BHS B135V-PSD15-S04-T01 sensor features both a normally open switching output and an integrated temperature sensor for detecting the cylinder temperature.

The measured temperature is provided as a voltage value (1-5.5V) on a separate analog output.

With a length of 78mm in a standard M12 housing, the sensor can also be retrofitted for temperature monitoring functions on hydraulic cylinders with piston position sensing.

A combination O-ring/support ring seals the area between the pressurized and pressureless area.

High pressure pumps designed for bolting

2007-01-01T01:46:00.000-08:00

Building on the outstanding performance of the Z-Class product line, Enerpac is proud to introduce the ZU4T-Series Electric Torque Wrench Pumps. Like other pumps in the Z-Class family, the ZU4T Electric Torque Wrench Pumps are designed to deliver ease of handling and use, higher oil flow and bypass pressure, cooler running and require 18% less current draw than comparable pumps. These pumps are ideal power sources for all hydraulic torque wrenches.

The pumps are offered in two maximum operating pressures: 700 and 800 bar; and the reservoir capacity is 4 to 8 liters.

Heavy-duty bearings extend pump life by reducing friction, reducing surface loading and lowering bearing stresses.

The pump's high-strength, moulded composite shroud protects motor and electronics, while providing an ergonomic, non-conductive handle for easy transport.

Remote control units with low-voltage pendants provide additional safety for the operator.

Brush design lasts four times longer than current designs and features an 'auto-stop' shunt to prevent commutator damage from normal brush wear.

Auto cycle feature provides continuous cycle operation of the torque wrench as long as the advance button is pressed.

(Pumps can be used with or without auto cycle feature.) The LCD readout provides pressure display and a number of diagnostic and readout capabilities never before offered on a portable electric pump.

The pump's powerful 1.25kW universal electric motor provides high power-to-weight ratio and excellent low voltage operating characteristics.

Pressure relief valve is rated highly under PED

2006-12-31T01:45:00.000-08:00

The latest addition to Sterling Hydraulics' range of CE marked pressure relief valves is the A04B2*CE. Like their leading CE marked A04J2 valve, the new valve is fully compliant with the pressure equipment directive (PED 976/23/EC) and is rated to the highest level, Category IV. The PED relates specifically to equipment which has a high stored energy level.

This includes, for example, nitrogen-charged accumulators that retain pressurised oil for release on demand, to operate an hydraulic service, such as a vehicle braking system.

Category IV covers a variety of applications including hydraulic fluid power equipment.

A major element of this category is the stored energy rating of the system, as dictated by the volumetric capacity and the operating pressure.

Full details of category ratings and whether equipment needs to comply with the PED can be found in the Conformity Assessment Tables in Annex II of the PED.

In particular, Sterling Hydraulics' CE valves meet the requirements of Modules B and D of the PED.

Module B is the EC type examination, in which a representative sample of products from a production batch is independently checked for compliance.

Module D covers quality assurance for production, final inspection and testing, as described in the EC type examination certificate or the EC design certificate.

Category IV is the highest safety level defined by the Directive, and equipment rated for Category IV is also suitable for use in systems with hazard ratings which fall into Categories I, II and III.

To meet the Category IV rating, equipment must be safe; must meet essential safety requirements covering design, manufacturing and testing; must satisfy appropriate conformity assessment procedures and must carry the CE mark.

The CE (Conformitee Europeenne) mark is a compliance symbol awarded by the Committee for European Construction Equipment (CECE) which recognises that the product meets all the requirements of EU legislation for safety to the consumer and the environment.

'European safety requirements are defined in the Machinery Directive, together with the appropriate European Standards,' says Laurence Card, Sterling Hydraulic's Principal Valve Engineer, and a member of the BFPA/BSI Technical Committee for fluid power products, 'Only a machine that carries the CE mark is guaranteed to meet these requirements, and can be traded in every country of the European Economic Area'.

' That may sound like bureaucracy, but if a contractor allowed the use of non-CE marked construction equipment and an accident occurred as a result, he could face serious consequences'.

' The CE mark on our relief valves means that OEMs in the European Union can incorporate these valves into their own CE marked machines with total confidence.' The A04J2 is a high flow bi-directional relief valve that can handle pressures up to 350bar and flows up to 120 litre/min in either direction'.

''It is a very popular valve,' says Card, 'Although discussions with our OEM customers suggested that higher pressure ratings would be needed in the future.' The latest demand has been for a uni-directional valve, of less complex design and not necessarily bi-directional flow capability.

Its poppet-style construction ensures low leakage whilst the hardened working parts provide for maximum durability.

Digital hydraulic controller is freely configured

2006-12-30T01:44:00.000-08:00

HACD - digital hydraulic controller from Rexroth - can be freely configured, features integral field bus communication and is in Eurocard format. Included are free Windows software for setting, position, pressure or velocity values and real time oscilloscope for rapid and accurate machine setting. The HACD is used as controller card for one or two closed control loops.

It can also be employed as command value card for generating, linking and normalizing signals.

Applications can be realized be linking predefined functions.

By simple configurations the user can implement: * Open loop controlled traversing.

* Closed-loop pressure/force control.

* Alternating control (HACD with two closed control loops only).

Further programming knowledge is not required.

Open and closed-loop control algorithms that are tailored to the requirements of hydraulics help to achieve optimum characteristics of the individual drive.

* Predefined function blocks - applications can be built using predefined function blocks.

No programming knowledge is required.

* Complex profiles can be achieved by using up to 32 blocks - each block contains command and control parameters, and blocks can be triggered by a variety of conditions, configured with PC interface software.

Examples of trigger conditions: state or digital inputs, analogue signals comparison, completion of dwell time.

* Control algorithms optimised for hydraulic axes - PIDT1 controllers with optional state variable control.

Each controller parameter is configurable and can enabled/disabled as required.

Parameters can be selected on a block-by-block basis.

Control can be switched between open loop and closed loop on a block-by-block basis.

* Configuration can be optimised for a variety of hydraulic devices - optimised valve characteristics selected from the predefined valve database.

Additional features of overlap jump, spool jump and creep/residual velocity are available.

* Analogue and digital feedback - incremental and SSI digital and voltage/current analogue sensors can be used.

* Complex signal processing - mathematical functions (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division) and Boolean functions (minimum, maximum, limiter) can be used for signal processing.

* Ramp generator - up and down ramps for acceleration and deceleration with S curve capability are included in the controller.

Ramp parameters can be selected on a block-by-block basis, or controlled by external analogue signals.

* Positional control - Fast accurate and repeatable positioning to within microns - Perfect profile following, for improved products - Fine control of speed and position via operator interface - Open and closed loop movements easily obtained - Position guaranteed under high load variations - Heavy loads moved smoothly and precisely to their final position.

- Multiple cylinders operating together with great accuracy - From stand-alone to PLC control over Profibus with 1 unit.

* Force/Pressure control - Accurate and repeatable pressure control to within 0.1% - Simple control of ramp and final pressure settings - Fine control of set pressure via PLC or direct operator input - Low cost control using a single pressure transducer with multiple set points and ramps - Sophisticated control using a combination of position, load and pressure transducers for more complex systems.

* Velocity control - Stable speed control despite varying load conditions - Fast response and high accuracy for all operations - Very slow to extremely fast speeds can be resolved - Speed variations can be selected by PLC or locally - Velocity profiles can be easily configured and modified - Real time monitoring and speed limit detection in built.

* About Bosch Rexroth - the company is a wholly owned subsidiary of Robert Bosch, Germany, achieved sales of EUR 3.7 billion in 2003 with 25,700 employees.

Under the brand name of Rexroth the company offers all relevant drive, control and motion technologies: from mechanics, hydraulics and pneumatics through to electronics and the associated services.

Cross beam system transfers parts smoothly

2006-12-29T01:43:00.000-08:00

Systems integration and parts handling specialist, Gudel UK has launched RoboBeam, the latest addition to its advanced range of work transfer and positioning solutions for high speed presswork applications. Developed as a cross beam transfer system for use with tandem press lines or large single presses, RoboBeam provides fast, accurate and safe parts transfer between presses up to 8.5m apart. The system features an extremely rigid, modular design, which accommodates components and carriers weighing up to 120kg.

RoboBeam also combines high precision parts location with the ability to accelerate components at up to 40m/sec2 to a maximum horizontal velocity of 8m/sec; to provide jerk-free synchronised parts transfer at up to 18 cycles/min.

The system can be freely programmed in all axes - for complete application flexibility - and provides up to 400mm component lift.

A maximum vertical lift of 1150mm is available for tool changes and, like the company's PressTrans and Gull Wing transfer systems, RoboBeam can be supplied as both retrofit or original equipment options for most press types.

In addition, the new system can be combined with Gudel's range of blank de-stacker units or RoboFlex gantry mounted robot system to provide completely integrated floor-to-floor presswork material handling solutions.

About Gudel UK - Gudel UK provides a comprehensive range of automation systems integration services based on the company's high precision work handling solutions for components weighing from a few grams to several tonnes.

Conveyor maximizes usable belt width

2006-12-28T01:40:00.000-08:00

Automation Supplies is a new company offering a range of exciting new engineered products from one source, based on the popular and increasing use of established modular parts and assemblies to achieve cost effective solutions. The FTF model within the Fric Touch (FT) conveyor belt range has the same unique patented FT drive system that eradicates all of the common problems associated with conventionally driven belt conveyors. The added advantage of the FTF version is that the difference in width between the belt and the conveyor structure is a mere 5mm.

This means that the edge of the belt is 2.5mm from the edge of the conveyor on either side.

This allows the user to maximize the useable width of the belt and minimize the space used by the conveyor structure.

This is an advantage where space is tight, such as in special purpose machine building.

The low 35mm profile of the FTF range is an added benefit to machine builders and the labeling and packaging industries.

The belt drive consists of a spring tensioned driven wheel system manufactured with a special formula material.

The wheels are thus tensioned against the underside of the belt and provide a direct drive.

This method of driving eradicates the need for tensioning and tracking which, vastly increases belt life.

It is not unusual to see standard belts lasting between 3-5 years.

Each belt is fitted with a centrally positioned true tracking guide that stops the belt from ever deviating.

The drive unit can be completely separated from the conveyor frame, making belt changing a very easy and quick task.

Unique Features for the FT conveyors are: no sprocket or chain; no driven roller; no tension or tracking adjustment; belt runs at virtually no tension therefore no belt stretch occurs; can run conveyor with belt width equal to frame width; can run conveyor with belt width greater than frame width; can create right angled transfers with no gap or dead plate and drive and legs all within frame producing ultra slim conveyor.

Second hand weighing and packaging equipment

2006-12-27T01:39:00.000-08:00

In recent years there has been an increase in the amount of second hand weighing and packaging equipment being installed at sites around the UK. Whilst this may provide a cost-effective solution for upgrading a packing plant it can lead to inefficient and inaccurate operations. An increasing number of end-users are now contacting the Chronos Richardson Service Department to seek advice on how to make second hand equipment work properly.

As a BS EN ISO 9001:2001 registered company Chronos Richardson provides genuine spare parts matched to the original design authority documentation at competitive prices.

Details of the wide range of services provided can be found at the service website.

Chronos Richardson itself offers cost-effective upgrade / refurbishment solutions, which can be implemented with minimum impact on existing operations whilst modernising a packing plant.

The company's ongoing product development programmes allow end-users to benefit from continuous development and improvement whatever the equipment supply.

This has been applied to: * Upgrading to meet current operating standards / legislation * Improving flexibility to meet changing production requirements * Helping old equipment regain its functionality, including long- term support for machines that are sometime decades old Plant Upgrades can also improve outputs by ensuring that all equipment is using up to date software and modern mechanical designs.

Multi-purpose press offers more flexibility

2006-12-26T02:33:00.000-08:00

Multi-purpose press offers more flexibility A multi-purpose hydraulic press features increased flexibility, higher availability and improved ease of service and performs drawing, embossing and general presswork. AP and T is introducing the Oden multi-purpose press, which features shorter installation times, increased flexibility, higher availability and improved ease of service. With Oden, AP and T is beginning a total renewal of the product line for hydraulic presses.

The generation shift also entails a switch to a new naming system for the products, with inspiration taken from Old Norse mythology.

Oden is available in five basic variants with press forces between 1,000 and 3,150kN and is designed for drawing, embossing, pressing and hydromechanical forming.

AP and T's primary goal during development work has been to design a press that creates increased productivity for customers in all phases.

APandT's unique modular design has been further refined to create a press with shorter production and installation times, longer service life and improved ease of service compared to before.

'We've examined all of our modules, such as electrical cabinets, frames, press beds, hydraulics, etc and developed an entirely new modular system with fewer but even more flexible modules,' said Bengt Walkin, technical manager at AP and T Press Systems.

The increased modularization provides shorter leadtimes in production for AP and T.

When the product is installed at a customer site, time is also minimized due to two smart solutions in the design of the frame.

Firstly, fewer frame parts have to be assembled onsite, and secondly, the control system's equipment cabinet is already bolted to the frame upon delivery.

'We know how much short lead and installation times mean to our customers and we know that the time they have available is decreasing.

Our Oden solutions permit customers to start production as quickly as possible,' said Walkin.

* New design means simpler service - Oden is based on a new design that gives the press a modern appearance.

The new design also provides improved accessibility to various components during service and maintenance.

'Higher availability is becoming increasingly important.

Having the right quality level for the product must be combined with minimal downtime.

The expanded capabilities for easily performing service and maintenance on Oden result in shorter downtimes,' saidWalkin.

* New operator terminal facilitates programming - the newly developed operator interface LOGOS has a very clear graphical interface that facilitates programming of the press's sequences and the entry of operating data.

The system is modularly designed, which makes it very easy to upgrade and adapt for new functions.

* Load-sensing hydraulics provide high flexibility - Oden is equipped with load-sensing hydraulics, which enable several cylinders to be activated simultaneously and even controlled independently of one another.

This entails very high flexibility in production for customers and also means more exact positioning and thereby higher quality than in a conventional system.

* High strength and long service life - frames and cylinders in Oden, as previously at AP and T, are designed using 'FEM analysis'.

The method entails that with the help of software, engineers can see an object's strong and weak points graphically and easily modify the design for optimal strength.

Moreover, the frame is welded in a single piece, which further contributes to high strength and consequently long service life.

* Oden - a part of AP and T's new naming system - with ODEN, AP and T is implementing its new naming system for hydraulic presses, which is based on names from Old Norse mythology.

Systems offered for forming high-strength steels

2006-12-25T02:42:00.000-08:00

Systems offered for forming high-strength steels Through the hot forming process, high-strength steels gain higher rigidity and good forming characteristics can be combined with high rigidity levels. Hot forming (or hot stamping) is an innovative process for manufacturing highly rigid parts while reducing both blank thickness and weight. It plays a major role in lightweight auto manufacturing, where the aim is to reduce vehicle weight while enhancing the rigidity of safety-relevant parts.

In contrast to the cold forming of higher- and high-strength steels, the parts are hardened by the hot stamping and subsequent cooling process itself.

In this way, steels with an original strength of 500 to 800N/mm2 can achieve a rigidity of 1,300 to 1,700N/mm2 after heating, forming and cooling.

When unhardened, these steels are less rigid and display much better forming characteristics.

Through the hot forming process, however, the materials gain higher rigidity than higher- and high-strength steels.

Good forming characteristics can therefore be combined with high rigidity levels.

The blanks are rolled through continuous furnaces and heated to approx.

950 deg C.

Pre-formed parts can also be processed by transporting them through the furnace in special racks.

A robot or special transfer system - equipped with grippers rather than suction cups due to the temperature - then feeds the blanks into the press.

This feeding action must be extremely fast, in order to avoid too much cooling and any scaling on the blank.

The forming process is then undertaken by a water-cooled die with press forces of 8000kN to 12MN (800 to 1,200 tonf) and speeds of up to 300mm/sec.

In order to guarantee good part accuracy and even hardening, the part remains some eight to ten seconds under pressure in the closed and cooled die after the actual forming process.

This allows the part temperature to fall to about 150 deg to 200 deg C.

Over the last ten years, Schuler has supplied a number of hot stamping lines to the automotive industry.

Pulsation widens deep drawing scope

2006-12-24T02:41:00.000-08:00

German hydraulic press builder, Walter Neff, obtained a licence from Fiat Auto, Italy, for pulsating blankholder technology to reduce friction between the blankholder and the blank during deep drawing. Neff set out to improve the technology and has since built a number of its 'Pulsation Presses'. Compared with conventional deep drawing of cup-shaped components, pulsation blankholder deep drawing extends by some 20% the depth of cup produced in a single draw.

The company said that tooling costs could be much reduced and, depending on materials, inter-stage annealing or normalising could also be eliminated.

The 4000kN (400 tonf) Pulsation Press features a downstroking and upstroking ram and an upstroking pulsation-blankholder.

In a typical operation, the blank is placed on the lower tool (blank holder) and the downstroking ram descends to stop 5mm above the blank.

The blankholder then upstrokes to hold the blank against the ram.

The hydraulic pulsation in the blankholders hydraulic cylinders - typically 2Hz - is activated as the upstroking ram, holding the force (or punch), draws the component upwards into a cup shape.

The downstroking ram then retracts, and the finished cup removed.

As well as extending the single-draw capability of deep-drawing quality steels, Neff said that the process allows the deep drawing of otherwise 'difficult' metals.

These include the higher- and high-strength steels, aluminium alloys, martensitic steels and magnesium alloys.

In addition, pulsation allows the drawing of more complex shapes.

An example given is the deep drawing of 1,0338 (DC 04) steel of 1.25mm thickness into a 'cup' shape (appeared to be about 150mm diameter).

With a conventional deep drawing press, a single stage draw depth of 145mm was achieved.

Guide shows advantages of power presses

2006-12-23T02:41:00.000-08:00

To help explain the operability and advantages of the D and M Series presses - in capacities from 1000kN to 20MN - Pacific Press Technologies has published a new literature guide. Pacific Press Technologies offers a new literature guide (10 pages, four colors) to help explain the operability and advantages of the D and M Series presses. Standard tonnages are available from 1000kN to 20MN (100 tonf to 2000 tonf) models (larger tonnage machines offered optionally).

The two-point, D-Series press has a large bed area with open height tailored to the process requirements and a long working stroke to provide flexibility and full tonnage throughout the stroke for various hydraulic press applications.

The two-cylinder presses are leveled with an electro-hydraulic synchronization process.

The guide also explains and highlights Deep Drawing, Progressive and Transfer Dies, PLC Controls, blanking and Compression Molding.

An explicit Pacific D-Series trait is eight-way gibbing.

This guarantees non-binding gib-guide operation and years of reliable service.

An automatic grease lubrication system is included with this ram guidance.

Operator and equipment safety is also outlined in the text.

Pacific can create state-of-the-art safety systems to individual or state requirements.

Such applications include light guards, barrier guards, two-hand operator controls, slide locks and slide safety blocks.

Other features discussed in the literature for D-Series Presses are special controls for Continuous Run and PSDI Operating Modes, cushion systems and quick die change.

Model 'M' Presses (single point) are designed to specifically handle punching, blanking, forming and molding operations that do not require large bed areas.

An eight way, square type gibbing, provides high accuracy and repeatability.

With optional modifications the 'M' can be utilized with thermosetting plastics, forming and signing magnesium and titanium or even extruding and compacting operations.

The literature also showcases 'D and M' Series Specification charts and illustrations.

Full factory training and service support is available from Pacific.

Hydraulics press out long and narrow parts

2006-12-22T02:40:00.000-08:00

The newly released Longbed Pressformer Series combines a proven two-cylinder pressbrake frame design with Pacific's press control systems. The Longbed Press has a deep throat C-frame design, which provides total power and controllability throughout the stroke, as well as maximum access from all sides. Models are available in 1000kN to 30MN (100 to 3000 tonf), with a bed size to fit any application (platen widths up to 48in).

Tandem designs are also available (up to 150ft - 49m - in length is achievable) to deliver long part productivity.

Active leveling, a wide range of throats, open heights, and strokes can accommodate an impressive range of press applications.

Control options are available in either a manual limit switch stroke control or with an Allen Bradley Panelview CNC operator system.

The Longbed Press is ideal for metal forming, punching, riveting, and molding operations.

It's rugged construction and interlocked design help to minimize frame deflection.

It is equipped with a state-of-the-art hydraulic system, which delivers precision, high-speed performance, and dependability.

The full rated tonnage and open heights deliver power throughout a long stroke.

The Longbed Pressformer also offers numerous optional features including continuous run for use with feed systems or automation, light curtains, quick die change, removable bolsters, nitrogen die capability, shock dampers, oil heaters and coolers, and hydraulic tool clamping.

Hydraulics replace geared crank presses

2006-12-21T02:39:00.000-08:00

Pacific OBMs and OBLs are rapidly replacing mechanically geared, double crank presses in heavy punching and blanking applications. The OBM line is available in 1000kN to 5000kN (100 to 500 tonf) models and the OBL is available in 2000kN to 10MN (200 to 1000 tonf) models both offered in a variety of bed lengths. A number of features make this machine perfect for today's tough manufacturing environment including the following applications: multiple punching, piercing, coining, embossing, bending, forming, and draw operations.

The rugged construction of the OBM and OBL features an interlocked steel design that absorbs and evenly distributes full force capacities.

Loads are transmitted to the frame via precisely fitted, large diameter bearing blocks that eliminate high stress concentrations.

The OBM and OBL's advanced hydraulic system is both compact and self-contained, and delivers performance characteristics like automatic cylinder synchronization (OBL only), overload protection, automatic decompression, three advance speeds, and other features to enhance reliability and performance.

Control is provided by the PLC with programmable interface, which features two-line display and keypad for data entry to program top, bottom, speed change point, and tonnage control.

For automated operation with press feeders or robotics, the control has built-in interlocks and a light guard safety system interface.

An array of options, including increased open heights, knock outs, die cushions, special bolster configurations, hydraulic die clamps, quick die change systems, light guards, coil systems, and CNC capabilities allow users to precisely tailor OBM and OBL performance to highly specific needs.

Hydraulic presses raise jobbing productivity

2006-12-20T02:38:00.000-08:00

Hydraulic presses raise jobbing productivity hydraulic presses offer greater job control, speed, easier set-up and small footprint, are more repeatable, as a transducer measures the press position, says a user. Because of Homac Manufacturing Company's ability to meet their customer's needs with quality products and unique solutions to their electrical transmission needs, the orders continued to flow in at an ever-increasing rate. Even though Homac (Ormond Beach, Florida, USA) used mechanical presses since its inception, they decided to begin a changeover from mechanical presses to a hydraulic press solution that offered them greater job control, better operator safety, faster and easier die setup, and reduced floor space.

Homac makes electrical transmission connectors for OEMs, utilities and contractor industrial sales.

Their product line includes over 28,000 part numbers.

Connectors range from small 1/2in by 1/2in wire connectors to ones incorporating wire components and end connectors that are three feet long and several inches wide.

Homac was founded by President Mark McGrane's father in 1963 and grew over the years through innovations and acquisitions.

'We started in New Jersey and moved to Florida in 1973.

Homac capitalized on the trend by utility companies to bury their cables for underground residential electrical distribution.

We were able to invent electrical connectors that met our customers' needs in an innovative way by saving them labor costs.

Connectors needed to be waterproof, leading us to develop proprietary designs that allow them to be waterproofed quickly and in less space than competitive products,' said McGrane.

'Our product designs were developed through personal contact with our customers.

They told us what they use now and what their problems were.

We were able to come up with completely new connector designs based on our customers' needs.

The only limitation we had for connectors was the space it needed to fit in, usually a transformer cabinet or underground junction box,' added McGrane.

'Because my father is no longer around to help us with our designs and manufacturing, Homac now has manufacturing and product development engineers.

Our design and production functions have been spread throughout the organization,' McGrane remarked.

Homac's product development process involves all the various manufacturing groups to produce good ideas, and ones that can be turned into a manufacturable product.

They use concurrent engineering with a multi-disciplinary team led by product development engineers.

However, manufacturing engineers and production personnel are involved from the concept stage to insure they're not conceptualizing, prototyping, testing, and getting something approved but can't be manufactured.

'We've been successful with the innovative connectors we've brought to market so far with this process.

It's probably more successful than a more tribal knowledge type of process that we had prior to it.

Direct thrust pneumatic presses introduced

2006-12-19T02:37:00.001-08:00

A brand new range of low cost hydro pneumatic bench presses ranging, from 670kgf to 500kN capacity, has been launched by French power manufacturer EMG-LONG and is now available through their sole UK representative SMV Presses (UK), the Coventry based power press and ancillary equipment manufacturer. These are dual purpose and direct thrust pneumatic presses designed for fabrication in a multitude of industries including, the pharmaceutical and medical equipment, automotive, white goods, watchmaking, and general fabrication industries. It can be used on a number of materials, including mild steel, stainless steel, aluminium, plastics and membranes as well as other materials for assembly and press work, riveting, cutting, crimping, bending and forming.

Each press is supplied with a vertical safety screen as standard and has a maximum operating speed of 150mm/s at maximum 6 bar.

The stroke varies between 50mm - 400mm with the working stroke being from 6mm - 40mm.

The vertical screen is operated by bi-manual push buttons to ensure maximum operator safety.

Light guards are available as an option to a vertical safety screen.

The press is CE marked.

Hydro pneumatic presses work more economically than conventional presses, because they are operated by compressed air, which activates the hydraulic power stroke automatically.

When operating, the pneumatic operated stroke approaches the workpiece quickly at a low force, only when it meets any resistance does the force increase.

Press offers programmable brake stops

2006-12-19T02:37:00.000-08:00

New from Schmidt is the 307 design, combining the simple reliability of a precision Rack and Pinion press with linked process and electronic stroke control via a touch control panel, supported by USB interface data. Ideal for short - run, light duty assembly and manufacturing projects - even of a complex nature - the 307 press offers totally programmable variations of stroke stops and work profiles supported by independently proven measuring and quality control technology. Notable aspects of the manual press range are a force of 4kN, adjustable ram stroke of 0 -50mm and variable working height of 90 - 260mm..

weight is a compact 30kg.

In turn, there are two main linked software options from Schmidt - ControlTool and statistical process control ( SPC ).

The former offers Windows based software for automatic download of press data after completion; including graph displays, dataset management for product/assembly specifics and system settings.

and PLC Editor for programme freedom and verification as well as multiple press monitoring.

The SPC option is again in convenient Windows mode and incorporates,for example, calculation of parameters, deviations, capability indicies and setable failure warnings.

The 307 is very much part of Schmidt's solution - led policy, which gives ongoing consultancy support.

Power press lines offer 10% shorter cycle times

2006-12-18T02:36:00.000-08:00

Dana increases speed with complete solution from AP and T Dana Corporation's purchase of three complete production lines from AP and T has provided the advantages that the company was looking for: Higher availability, shorter cycle times and ease of service. Three complete AP and T production lines are in operation in Dana's Chatham, Ontario production facility. In Chatham, Dana produces thermal and acoustical protective heat shields for automotive engines.

The three lines include a total of 17 presses and are used in the fully automated production of thermal heat shields.

Dana also utilises AP and T equipment at other production facilities.

When Dana was ready to invest in a new line at Chatham, they chose AP and T as their partner.

The choice was based on a number of factors, including visits to other companies where AP and T equipment had been installed.

'A technical advantage that AP and T offered was a completely integrated system that is engineered and programmed as a single system.

Many of their competitors purchase many of the major components and alter their system programming to accommodate them,' said Jim Westover, production manager at Dana's Chatham plant.

After the first line was installed, Dana decided to install two almost identical additional lines from AP and T, in order to meet increased demand.

* Lines with five and six presses - in each of the three lines, Dana produces five to ten different thermal heat shields.

Two of them use six presses; the third uses five presses.

The processes are similar for all of the lines.

As an example, the production process of one of the six-press lines looks like this: AP and T's ZL style hydraulic presses are used in the lines with press forces ranging from 1000 to 2000kN (100 to 200 tonf) .

Material is fed into the first press by a coil feeder.

The press cuts a blank and makes a fold.

If required, holes are punched here as well.

The detail is then transferred to the second press by a monobar transfer feeder, the MB80, which is mounted directly on the press.

The MB80 is virtually maintenance free and is part of the newly developed sixth generation of AP and T automation equipment.

In the second press, an additional coil feeder feeds both metal and insulation filler.

All three layers of material are cut in the press.

Two transporters are used to remove the metal and filler scrap materials.

In the third press, the detail is folded together.

To ensure the quality of the end product, a detector checks that insulation material is placed between the two metal sheets.

In press four, the layers are pressed together and if needed, holes are punched.

The fifth press gives the detail its final shape using deep-drawing technology.

The detail is then lifted by an ABB robot and placed in press six, where holes are punched.

A second ABB robot lifts the detail out of the line for control and transportation.

In the five-press line, an additional process is added after the line.

The process is a free-standing welding and riveting work station, that can run with the AP and T line as one complete system.

Largest hydraulic automotive panel press ordered

2006-12-17T02:34:00.000-08:00

A Nordic giant - this press line is enormous. The Volvo car corporation has ordered what is the biggest hydraulic press line to date with robot automation from Mueller Weingarten. Its dimensions and performance figures are impressive.

The five-stage press line measures 80 x 22m with the bolsters and rams measuring 5m long and 2.80m across.

Further characteristics include fully automatic die change using moving bolsters to the left and right as well as sophisticated four-part production in one press cycle.

'Volvo deliberately chose hydraulic presses because it was looking for flexibility,' grinned the new director of the Hydraulic Presses Business Unit, Manfred Wischnewski, describing the sales success.

On this press line, Volvo is intending to produce body parts from both steel and aluminum.

The presses will be produced and pre-assembled in Weingarten and Erfurt in 2007.

The press line will then be taken into operation at the Olofstrom, Sweden, plant in early 2008.

'This is the third hydraulic press line order that Mueller Weingarten has succeeded in attracting this year.

It's a good sign that demand for hydraulic presses is once again picking up strongly and that OEMs are increasingly taking on board the advantages of hydraulic presses in their new investment policies,' continued Wischnewski.

After two rather hard years, Wischnewski is therefore forecasting significant sales growth for 2006 and, above all, in 2007.

'We used the slack period for a thorough overhaul of the design of our machines.

This is why we're now well prepared to cope with the increasing number of projects on the market.' He is relying not only on large hydraulic press lines but also on product innovations for hot forming and the newly developed ZE press series for medium press forces.

'This press series will appeal above all to medium-sized companies that need specific solutions for their particular segments,' explained Wischnewski.

Hydraulic press is multi-purpose and flexible

2006-12-16T02:35:00.000-08:00

AP and T is introducing the Oden multi-purpose press, which features shorter installation times, increased flexibility, higher availability and improved ease of service. With Oden, AP and T is beginning a total renewal of the product line for hydraulic presses. The generation shift also entails a switch to a new naming system for the products, with inspiration taken from Old Norse mythology.

Oden is available in five basic variants with press forces between 1,000 and 3,150kN and is designed for drawing, embossing, pressing and hydroforming.

AP and T's primary goal during development work has been to design a press that creates increased productivity for customers in all phases.

AP and T's unique modular design has been further refined to create a press with shorter production and installation times, longer service life and improved ease of service compared to before.

'We have examined all of our modules, such as electrical cabinets, frames, press beds, hydraulics, etc and developed an entirely new modular system with fewer but even more flexible modules,' said Bengt Walkin, technical manager at AP and T Press Systems.

The increased modularization provides shorter leadtimes in production for AP and T.

When the product is installed at a customer site, time is also minimized due to two smart solutions in the design of the frame.

Firstly, fewer frame parts have to be assembled onsite, and secondly, the control system's equipment cabinet is already bolted to the frame upon delivery.

'We know how much short lead and installation times mean to our customers and we know that the time they have available is decreasing'.

'Our Oden solutions permit customers to start production as quickly as possible,' said Walkin.

* New design means simpler service - Oden is based on a new design that gives the press a modern appearance.

The new design also provides improved accessibility to various components during service and maintenance.

'Higher availability is becoming increasingly important'.

'Having the right quality level for the product must be combined with minimal downtime'.

'The expanded capabilities for easily performing service and maintenance on Oden result in shorter downtimes,' said Walkin.

* New operator terminal facilitates programming - the newly developed operator interface LOGOS has a very clear graphical interface that facilitates programming of the press's sequences and the entry of operating data.

The system is modularly designed, which makes it very easy to upgrade and adapt for new functions.

* Load-sensing hydraulics provide high flexibility - Oden is equipped with load-sensing hydraulics, which enable several cylinders to be activated simultaneously and even controlled independently of one another.

This entails very high flexibility in production for customers and also means more exact positioning and thereby higher quality than in a conventional system.

* High strength and long service life - frames and cylinders in Oden, as previously at AP and T, are designed using FEM analysis.

The method entails that with the help of software, engineers can see an object's strong and weak points graphically and easily modify the design for optimal strength.

Moreover, the frame is welded in a single piece, which further contributes to high strength and consequently long service life.

* Oden - a part of AP and T's new naming system - with Oden, AP and T is implementing its new naming system for hydraulic presses, which is based on names from Old Norse mythology.

The name Oden was chosen for AP and T's multi-purpose press.

Oden was the mythological god who ruled over wisdom, poetry, war and death.

The reason the multi-purpose presses have been given his name is that Oden could move freely between the various Old Norse mythological worlds.

He could even change shapes as he wished - a characteristic shared with the ODEN multi-purpose press.

Constant supply of oil-free compressed air

2006-12-15T02:29:00.000-08:00

A constant supply of oil-free compressed air with a barely detectable maximum residual oil content of 0.003 milligram per cubic metre - this is what the new catalyst system from compressed air specialist Beko Technologies is able to deliver. With this high level of efficiency, the Bekokat devices can sail past the stringent oil content stipulations of DIN EN8573-1/ISO 8573-1, class 1. At the same time, the new catalytic principle breaks down the technical and economic barriers that are usually intrinsic to conventional compressed air treatment, especially when concerned with applications with extremely high quality requirements.

The catalyst comprises a granulate that is heated to an operating temperature of around 150 degree Celsius.

In the catalyst, the oil molecules are broken up until only a carbon atom remains.

At the end of the final catalytic phase, the oil molecules have oxidized to H2O and CO2.

The oil-free and dry compressed air can then be used for the given application; the remaining water is discharged via a standard method.

Consequently, Bekokat systems are not only highly effective, but also very environmentally friendly.

Bekokat's advantages further include a maximum of process reliability because catalytic oxidation takes place completely independent of ambient temperature, inlet temperature, air humidity, and oil inlet concentration.

Even during partial load operation, the efficiency of the catalyst technology of the Bekokat device is not in any way reduced.

Compressed air energy consumption cut by 34%

2006-12-14T02:29:00.000-08:00

Crown Speciality Packaging is one company that felt the sting of increased electricity prices when their power costs almost tripled overnight some 18 months ago. This sudden increase propelled Crown Speciality Packaging into implementing a programme to reduce their energy consumption costs. They started at their Mansfield site with the compressed air system.

Assisted by Boge the company has now reported a massive 34% reduction in compressed air energy consumption that has significantly reduced energy costs.

This has been achieved through embracing a continual improvement philosophy to creating energy efficiencies.

Crown Speciality Packaging is a leading manufacturer of packaging products for consumer marketing companies around the world.

The plant at Mansfield manufactures speciality tins used to package teas, sweets and biscuits for some of the nations most well known household names.

Compressed air is a key energy consumer at the plant in various stages of the production process.

Chris Nolan, site service team leader, had recognised there were a number of opportunities available to the Company that would assist in reducing compressed air energy consumption.

The recent steep rise in electricity prices prompted Nolan to further investigate how and where energy savings could be made.

Nolan subsequently invited the Carbon Trust to review the existing compressed air system and make recommendations as to how they believed energy savings could be made.

Their report confirmed his own beliefs and so Crown Speciality Packaging engaged long standing supplier Boge Compressors to assist in realising the necessary changes.

The compressed air system was subsequently re-designed to accommodate ever changing system dynamics whilst at the same time ensuring optimum energy efficiency.

A Boge S151 fixed speed screw compressor along with a Boge SF150 frequency controlled screw compressor, were consequently installed.

The Boge SF series of frequency controlled screw compressors is a low carbon technology product that works strictly in accordance with the compressed air demand by producing the exact volume of compressed air at the pressure required.

Frequency control minimises idling time and evens out air demand fluctuations.

An energy management system was also installed to continually audit the compressed air system ensuring that the compressors run as efficiently as possible at all times.

Implementing low carbon technologies allowed Crown Speciality Packaging to maintain the compressed air system's pressure precisely again ensuring ongoing cost optimisation.

This in turn is providing sustainable energy efficiencies.

Creating energy savings has been embraced as a long-term goal and the Boge Maintenance Plan ensures that compressed air energy management is a key component at all periodic site service visits.

Regular air leak detection, using an Ultrasonic Leak Detector, is one measure that Boge includes within their regular visits.

In fact, leak detection alone created colossal energy savings in the first few months of system optimisation and now continues to provide on-going energy savings for the company.

Shoulder milling cutter range expanded

2006-12-13T02:05:00.001-08:00

Seco Tools has considerably expanded its Turbo square shoulder milling product offering to include Helical Nano and Helical Power Turbo cutters; Combimaster interchangeable heads with a Capto quick change adaptor option; adjustable cassettes and wiper inserts; and a new MD geometry all designed to increase your milling productivity. * Helical Nano and Power Turbo increase productivity - Seco Helical cutters offer the free cutting performance of Turbo with a four to five time increase in depth of cut capability. For your smallest applications, Helical Nano Turbo mills are offered as shank endmills and as arbor/shell mills in normal and close-pitch models.

Available in diameters as small as 0.50in and as large as 0.75in, Helical Nano Turbo mills can handle depths of cut up to 0.83 in.

in a wide variety of materials and operations.

The Helical Power Turbo is designed to take on your toughest materials and most demanding operations.

Helical Power Turbo cutters are available in both cylindrical shank and arbor/shell configurations in diameters ranging from 1.5 to 4in with depth of cut capabilities up to 2.52in.

Also the cutters are available in normal and close pitch.

* Interchangeable heads maximize flexibility - for increased tooling flexibility in smaller applications using Nano and Micro Turbo (0.75 to 1.5in), Seco offers Combimaster interchangeable heads, which feature through coolant holes for delivery right to the cutting edge.

For live spindle machines, Capto adapters for Combimaster heads are available to further extend the flexibility of this tool system.

Close and coarse pitch version cutters are also available.

* MD geometry achieves higher metal removal - more parts out the door at the end of the day is the name of the game and the new MD geometry is a major player.

Designed for Super and Power Turbo, MD offers the industry's highest metal removal rate - up to twice that of competitive square-shoulder mills.

* Adjustable cassettes offer economical solution for surface finish - Seco's new adjustable cassettes and wiper inserts, available for Power and Super Turbo, offer better surface capability, which can be hard to achieve when using large diameter cutters on big workpieces.

Large components need to be machined quickly in order to be profitable and Turbo makes the best use of your available power.

Additionally, the cassette option offers an economical tooling solution - should your cutter be damaged, you simply replace the cassette.

* About Seco - Seco Tools Inc is part of the Seco Tools AB global organization, a world leader in metalworking technologies, providing solutions for milling, turning, holemaking and threading applications.

The company is committed to solving its customers' ever-increasing demands for greater productivity, quality and cost-effectiveness.

Seco Tools offers its full range of cutting tools and related technologies through a network of more than 400 authorized distributors in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Face-milling 45 deg lead cutters range expanded

2006-12-12T02:04:00.000-08:00

Seco Tools has introduced its expanded range of QuattroMill 45 deg lead facemills in booth E-2445 at IMTS 2006, focusing on the addition of new 15mm inserts (called -15) and a range of both fixed-pocket and cassette-style cutter bodies. The new -15 insert and corresponding cutter bodies extend the range of machining and permit depth of cut of up 0.295in (9.5mm) and feed rates of 0.020in/tooth (0.5mm/tooth). As with the original -09 and -12 (9mm and 12mm) inserts, the new -15 is available in several grades and geometries for the full range of applications in steel, stainless steel, cast iron and numerous exotic and high-temperature alloy materials.

For even greater productivity, the new -15 is also available in a wiper/high feed insert-style for increased feed rates and excellent surface finishes.

Full top CBN inserts with center-lock holes are also available and provide excellent results in hard milling applications.

The new cutter bodies for the -15 are available in coarse, normal and close pitch versions and range in diameter from 2.50 to 20in (63mm to 500mm).

Within that range is a family of cassette cutters from 3 to 20in (80mm to 500mm) that utilize the new -15, but can also hold both -09 and -12 using the same body by just switching the cassettes.

Through coolant is standard on cutters up to 5in (125mm).

All cutter bodies and cassettes feature a unique coating that is extremely hard; greater than 700 Vickers.

The coating adds to wear-resistance and also provides for increased lubricity, enhancing chip flow during operation.

QuattroMill uses strong square inserts with integrated anvils and super positive geometry, up to 35 deg effective rake angle, that allow for milling at very high feed rates as the cutter's super-positive, light cutting geometry generates less force, torque and power consumption.

These characteristics also make QuattroMill cutters an excellent choice for unstable machining conditions including long overhangs or poor fixturing of the work piece.

* About Seco - Seco Tools is part of the Seco Tools AB global organization, a world leader in metalworking technologies, providing solutions for milling, turning, holemaking and threading applications.

The company is committed to solving its customers' ever-increasing demands for greater productivity, quality and cost-effectiveness.

Seco Tools offers its full range of cutting tools and related technologies through a network of more than 400 authorized distributors in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Face millers raise metal removal rates

2006-12-11T02:03:00.000-08:00

Face milling cutters, using octagonal inserts and new cutter body geometry, offer higher metal removal rates for users of lower-powered machining centres and milling machines - roughing or finishing.

Available from WNT (UK), the Pokolm Baseworx series of face milling cutters opens up new productivity opportunities for users of lower-powered machining centres and milling machines, whether roughing or finishing. The design of the octagonal Baseworx inserts, combined with the unique cutter body, which presents a 20 deg axial approach to the workpiece, enables much higher depths of cut to be achieved for the same power consumption when compared to conventional face mills. Combined with the highest available number of cutting edges, this ensures that Baseworx provides a cost-effective solution for face milling, slot milling, pocket milling and chamfering.

The range consists of 12.7mm across flats inserts that are available with, or without, chipbreakers in order to meet the requirements of a variety of applications and material types.

These inserts can be specified in two carbide grades: either a K10 polished insert for machining aluminium or a P40 PVTi insert for machining steels.

The current range of cutter bodies extends to nine different diameters ranging from 40 to 125mm diameter.

Roughing end mills machine steels and NF

2006-12-10T02:03:00.000-08:00

P and M Regrinds' Roughing End Mills are available in a variety of side-cutting and center-cutting styles for machining aluminum, steel, stainless steel, titanium, cast iron, and all commonly used alloys. They are designed and manufactured to provide optimum production efficiency. These end mills feature the following.

Flutes and cutting teeth are ground from one solid, hardened blank.

Production-proven cutting edge geometry permits high metal removal and fast feed rates.

Exact flute location and indexing produce a sharp, even cut.

Uniform cutting load per tooth assures minimum chatter and deflection.

Optimum land width permits numerous regrinds.

Drawn end mill shanks increase tool strength and minimize tool breakage.

Tools are available in TiN and TiCN coatings.

End mills rough steels up to 70HRC at high speed

2006-12-09T02:01:00.000-08:00

Our SuperMX series end mills for HSM roughing and semi-roughing are being produced from excellent ultra-fine carbide available, for its hardness, toughness and wear resistance.

Their geometries are especially designed with grinding software and CAD system to guarantee a maximum of stability and excellent performance for HSM (high speed machining).

With PVD Nano-Structure coating process offers outstanding heat-resident and a lubricating ability for machining hardened steel ( up to 70 HRC).