Clippard Releases New Full-line Catalog

Clippard Instrument Laboratory, Inc., manufacturer of the industry’s most complete line of miniature fluid power products, has just released the all-new 356-page catalog.

This full-line catalog includes features, specifications, technical drawings, color photographs, and application highlights throughout. Products can be found in six main categories, including Cylinders, Electronic Valves, Control Valves, Modular Valves, Fittings and Hose, and Air Preparation equipment.

Clippard Instrument Laboratory, Inc.
www.clippard.com/catalog

Vacuum Switch from SUCO Technologies

SUCO Technologies’ 0150 Vacuum switch can be easily wired with the included DIN connector. It can be mounted two ways, either manifold or direct thread.

The vacuum switch can handle up to 290psi overpressure.  The switch also offers:

–snap-action micro switch with silver contacts
–field adjustable pressure range 3″…29″Hg
–differential typically 1.5″..3″Hg
–overpressure safe up to 290psi
–incl. DIN connector
–aluminum body
–max. 250V
–diaphragm: ECO

SUCO Technologies
www.suco-tech.com

Pneumatic Rod Lock from AME

Advanced Machine & Engineering Co. announces the Fourth- Generation RLN Series Rod Locks.  The new Pneumatic Series RLN Rod Lock has been developed as a solution to control problems inherent to pneumatics – over travel, drifting, bouncing and reverse traveling.  The AMLOK^® Power-Off Rod Lock can be mounted to a NFPA cylinder, or as a stand alone unit.

The patented AMLOK^® Type RLN is constructed of black anodized aluminum housing with a special piston and wedge locking mechanism actuated by multiple springs that mechanically lock the rod quickly and securely. The clamp is unlocked when air actuates the piston, compresses the spring and releases the locking device.

–No rod displacement on engagement
–Large clamping surface reduces pressure-per-square-inch on the rod, extending service life
–Fast response time
–Low backlash
–4 bar (60 psi) release pressure
–Precision holding 0.002-0.003
–Consistent clamping force in both directions
–High cycle rates and accuracy
–Holds load during power/pressure loss
–Compact unit, easy integration
–Versatile sleeve nut/tie rod mounting to NFPA style pneumatic cylinders
–Many NFPA style-mounting attachments available for stand alone applications

The optional sealed RLN Series design is suitable for food and wash down applications as well as pneumatic and hydraulic presses, scissor-lift tables, test and positioning equipment, amusement ride equipment, printing and paper handling equipment, theatrical equipment (platforms), assembly equipment, and machine tool applications.

Advanced Machine & Engineering Co.
www.ame.com

Anver VR Series Mini-Vacuum Pumps

Anver Corporation announces a full line of air-powered venturi vacuum pumps that have no moving parts for high reliability and can be positioned close to the load for optimum performance.

Anver VR Series Mini-Vacuum Pumps are powered by compressed air and employ the venturi principle to achieve a 26” Hg vacuum with only 0.74 to 1.27 SCFM air flow, depending upon size. Providing millisecond attach and release, the pump, suspension, and suction cup are one unit and can be positioned close to the load to minimize the potential for vacuum loss through tubing.

Constructed of aluminum and brass, Anver VR Series Mini-Vacuum Pumps can be supplied with a wide variety of suspensions and suction cups in different sizes and materials. Requiring only 72 psi supply pressure, they use standard compressed air logic, components, and fittings for easy integration into single item EOAT and manifolds for picking up multiple products.

Anver Corporation
www.anver.com

Clippard Introduces New Air Jets

Clippard announces the introduction of the all-new Air Jets line. This new line is designed to deliver a concentrated flow of air or liquid to a designated location.

Featuring a unique ball nozzle design, the Air Jets line is available with a wide range of nozzles, bases and mounting hardware. The ball nozzle accepts a variety of tube configurations that can be aimed and locked into position. This capability enables the Air Jets to deliver the air or liquid with precision, and at a very affordable price.

Clippard Instrument Laboratory, Inc.
www.clippard.com

Thomas Corrosion Resistant, Lightweight DC Pump

The 309 Series WOB-L® DC pump and compressor from Thomas is small, lightweight (5.1 lbs./2.3Kg) and is manufactured with corrosion resistant materials on the inside and a corrosion resistant treatment on external components. Perfect for automotive applications including air suspension, air doors, air horns, air brakes and clutches, and fuel systems, the 309 Series meets radiated emission requirements and is RoHS compliant.

The 309 Series also features oil-less operation, die-cast aluminum components, steel mounting brackets and isolators, all wetted aluminum parts, a stainless steel inlet valve and a thermally protected motor. The 309 Series provides up to 26.75 in.Hg (-904.1 mbar) and 160 psi (11 bar) of maximum intermittent pressure. In addition, the 309 Series has restart capability to maximum pressure.

Thomas Division, Gardner Denver Company
www.gd-thomas.com

Bimba Introduces New OSHA-Compliant Safety Valve

Bimba Manufacturing introduces a new safety valve (lock out – tag out style) to its line of Air Preparation Products. Current OSHA and ANSI/PMMI standards1 require a lockout valve installed on all air-operated equipment to isolate the equipment from its air supply and to exhaust all downstream air pressure making the equipment safe for maintenance.

The Pneumatic Isolation Valve (PIV Series) is available in nine sizes, from 1/4″ to 1-1/2″ with a full range of accessories to help companies conform to these standards. Many competitive models fail to comply with these standards due to reduced-sized exhaust ports and designs that can be locked in a “partially on” condition.

The new PIV Series catalog is available in electronic format on the Bimba website. Learn more about Bimba’s Pneumatic Isolation Valve, reference safety standards and view real-time pricing and delivery information at www.bimba.com.

Bimba
www.bimba.com

Micro Gas-sampling Pump from KNF Neuberger

A new KNF micro diaphragm gas-sampling pump (Type NMP015.1.2) uniquely integrates head connections inside the housing for improved pneumatic performance in a compact and leak-tight package. This optimized design produces less pulsation and additionally allows for the housing to be closed and sealed for significant reduction in audible noise.

The pump ideally suits portable, battery-operated equipment used in a wide range of OEM applications, including gas sampling, explosives detection devices, anesthesia systems, and medical analyzers, among others.

Among features, the pump’s elastomeric diaphragm promotes high efficiency and delivers oil-free operation without any risk of contaminating the sampled gas. Pumps can be specified either with an ironless core DC motor or with a brushless DC motor offering longer service life. PEEK housings and pump heads contribute high stiffness and temperature and chemical resistance.

Depending on model, these pumps can achieve flow rates to 2.1 l/m, vacuum to 650 mbar (11 in. Hg) absolute, and continuous pressure to 0.6 bar g (9 psig). All are engineered to perform maintenance-free with low power requirements and are supplied ready for installation to operate in any position.

Chemically resistant versions are available and pumps can otherwise be customized to meet particular application demands.

KNF Neuberger, Inc.
www.knfOEM.com

Adjustable Venturi Vacuum Pumps

Anver Corporation introduces a new fail-safe, dual circuit vacuum lifter that incorporates two vacuum systems in one for handling high-value loads that absolutely cannot be dropped.

Anver’s Dual Circuit Vacuum Lifter features all-welded steel construction and is powered by two independent vacuum system circuits, including check valves for each, two separate reservoirs, and filters. Designed for high-value loads where a redundant system is desired, various sized beams, cross arms, and vacuum pads are offered and hooks are included for safety straps.

Custom built in capacities up to 60,000 lbs., Anver’s Dual Circuit Vacuum Lifter features hand-replaceable quick-change ring vacuum sealing cups.

It can be powered by either compressed-air or electric vacuum pumps and options include electric or hydraulic actuated powered tilting systems. Suction cup materials can be selected to match specific load requirements.

Anver’s Dual Circuit Vacuum Lifter is priced from $14,950.00 up, depending upon configuration and capacity. Pricing is available upon request.

Anver Corporation
www.anver.com

Avoiding mistakes with Teflon hose

Teflon hose is seldom specified for routine hydraulic or pneumatic systems, but dominates in aerospace and tough industrial environments. Here’s how to choose the right hose and avoid several common mistakes while doing so.

Hoses made with a core of Teflon® (PTFE) deliver out-standing performance under severe conditions. That’s why they are found in places like the space shuttle, aircraft landing gear and braking systems, and the self-contained breathing apparatus firefighters depend on to keep them safe.

Strong points
Teflon hoses may be a good choice for applications where the following characteristics are required or specified:

• Heat and cold resistance
• Corrosion resistance
• Non-toxicity
• Extremely low permeability
• Light weight
• Flex/fatigue resistance
• Ease of cleaning/sanitizing
• UV/ozone resistance

Depending upon the application, Teflon hose is available with type 304 or 316 Stainless, Monel, or bronze braiding. The hose can also be covered with silicone, thermoplastics, or textiles, where needed.

Selection criteria
Just as there are differences between materials used in hoses, so are there differences between hoses using the same base material, like Teflon. Here are some of the basic characteristics to consider in choosing a hose for a specific application.

Smooth or convoluted bore? The primary differences are size and bend radius. Smooth bores are generally available only in bore sizes of 1 in. or less. For that size, a smooth bore hose has a minimum bend radius of 12 in., whereas a convoluted bore hose has a 3-in. minimum bend radius.

Conductive or non-conductive? Fuel-line hoses carrying gasoline or other low-viscosity hydrocarbons at high flow rates tend to build up static charges that can arc through the Teflon to the braid, creating a pinhole in the Teflon. Specifying conductive Teflon will allow the static charge to bleed off harmlessly to the fitting.

Wall thickness? Thicker walls are better for applications where the hose is flexed severely, as they are more resistant to buckling. Thick wall hoses are also less permeable to gasses. Thin wall hoses tend to cost less, because they contain less material.

Braid material? Type 304 stainless steel is the baseline braid material for most Teflon hoses. Type 316 stainless is recommended for marine hose applications. Monel is available for hoses exposed to severe marine corrosion environments, and bronze is available for marine applications and also where hoses may be rubbed together or against other equipment. In such cases, the excellent lubricity of bronze may deliver longer life than stainless steel.

Roll of Teflon hose braided in stainless steel. Teflon hose is often used in aerospace and tough industrial environments.

Braid material also plays into pressure rating of a hose. Some materials and hoses can handle pressures to 5,000 psi. Monel and bronze-braided hoses typically have lower pressure ratings.

Fittings? Teflon hoses are suitable for use with crimp, swage, or reusable fittings. Use the type you prefer, as there are no significant performance differences.

Interior or exterior? Hoses exposed to severe environmental conditions can be fitted with several forms of external protection, such as extruded thermoplastic and silicone sleeves, fire-resistant sleeves, and various types of metallic protective enclosures. Hoses used in vacuum can be fitted with internal coils or sleeves to prevent collapse.

Three common mistakes
To avoid application errors in your designs, beware of these common misunderstandings or “myths” about hoses made of Teflon.

1. Teflon hoses are a high-cost item: While it is true that the Teflon PTFE paste used to make high grade hose is a premium material, the hose itself is often a more economical choice than traditional products when total lifecycle cost is considered. There are a number of factors to consider when comparing hose cost and performance.

A hose made with Teflon will outlast an ordinary rubber or thermoplastic hose under virtually any operating condition. The advantage is greatest under the most severe conditions but it is almost always present, and usually significant. Whether this factor alone is enough to justify the higher initial cost of a hose made with Teflon will vary from application to application, but in most cases the answer is “no.”
That begins to change, however, when costs other than initial purchase price are considered.

• How much does the scheduled downtime for a hose change cost in terms of lost production, direct labor, hose and fitting inventories, and impact on other dependent processes?

• How much does unscheduled downtime due to unpredictable hose failure cost?

• How much does contamination of products or process fluids by hose materials cost annually?

• How much does it cost to replace expensive boiler additives lost to effusion through rubber or thermoplastic steam hose cost?

• How much could be saved if rubber or thermoplastic hose jackets were as corrosion resistant as the stainless steel braid used with most hose made of Teflon?

A good example of the benefits of hoses made with Teflon can be found in the tire industry. The presses used in tire manufacture use steam to cure the rubber, water to cool the die, and compressed air to blow the water out of the die prior to introducing steam for the next cycle. A single hose is used to supply steam, water, and air to the press. The OEM rubber hoses originally supplied with the presses had to be changed every two weeks on average to avoid in-process failures. Replacing them with hoses made with Teflon and equipped with spring guards to minimize flexing fatigue has extended the hose-change interval to six months.

The standard baseline braid material for most Teflon hose is type 304 Stainless Steel.

Hoses made with Teflon can also reduce warranty costs for products like commercial/industrial coffee machines that tend to receive little or no maintenance from end users. They also add a factor of safety when used to drain hot products like fryer grease in fast food restaurants. Other advantages of hoses made with Teflon can have significant cost impacts in more specialized application areas. For example, carbon will not stick to the Teflon core of hoses used as compressor discharge lines. That means the compressor damage caused by pieces of built-up carbon becoming detached from the discharge hose walls and circulating through the system is completely eliminated. How much does it cost to replace an industrial compressor?

The bottom line here is simple. Hoses, like everything else, ought to be evaluated on their total lifecycle cost, not just their initial purchase price. Viewed in this way, hoses made with Teflon very often turn out to be the lowest-cost option.

2. Teflon hoses tend to kink and crush easily: The truth is that all hoses tend to kink and crush easily, especially when they are improperly applied. Hoses made with Teflon are no better or worse than other materials when recommended bend radii and loadings are adhered to.

In applications where kinking or crushing is a possibility, it is a simple matter to add internal or external spring guards to reinforce the hose at critical points. Selecting a hose with thicker walls and a convoluted bore will also minimize kinking and resist crushing.

Note that Teflon hose with a convoluted bore has a recommended bend radius that is three to four times tighter than a PTFE hose of the same size with a smooth bore. Convoluted bores also exhibit greater crush resistance in vacuum applications.

3. All hoses made with Teflon are the same: Teflon is a trade name that is applied to a whole family of fluoropolymer-based materials, not all of which have the same properties. Two different Teflon materials are typically used in the hose industry, a melt-extrudable form (such as PFA, FEP, or ETFE) and a paste-extrudable form (PTFE).

Melt-extrudable materials necessarily have a lower melting point than paste-extrudable materials. The also exhibit lower flex fatigue resistance. These lower physical properties are all reflected in the products using melt-extrudable Teflon materials.

The premier PTFE resin used in hose construction is Teflon 62. Because Teflon 62 is not a thermoplastic, it cannot be continuously extruded, which has traditionally limited the length of hose that can be produced. Now the latest generation of paste extrusion equipment can produce long lengths of PTFE hose. For a 1-in. ID hose, a 400 ft continuous length is now possible.

Discuss this on The Engineering Exchange:

Eaton Corp.
www.eaton.com

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