J. W. Winco Offers Pneumatic Power Clamps

J. W. Winco, Inc. announced it is now offering an additional type of Pneumatic Power Clamps.

The MN 140 series of fastening clamps is a new version of the patented, smaller profile, high clamping force, super-efficient clamps. The two arms on this style of clamp exert an outward force from the center.

The RoHS-compliant, metric size clamps are made of C45 hardened steel with a black oxide finish. They have a maximum pressure of 10 bar and work pressure of 6 bar. As with the other types of Misati power clamps in J.W. Winco’s line, they can be combined with a complete selection of accessories to accommodate any application.

J.W. Winco
www.jwwinco.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

Norgren Recognized for Contribution to 2010 Colorado FIRST Robotics Competition

Norgren announced it has been recognized as a ‘Gold’ level contributor to the FIRST Robotics Organization for its donation of pneumatic valves and regulators. The FIRST Colorado Regional competition took place at the University of Denver Ritchie Center Thursday, March 25, 2010, through Saturday, March 27, 2010.

Since 2006 Norgren has contributed pneumatic regulators and valves to FIRST Robotics. This year the competition, called Breakaway™ involved designing and building a robot to direct soccer balls into goals, traverse “bumps” in the field, suspend themselves on towers, and/or go through a tunnel located in the center of the field. Most teams utilized pneumatics to create the kicking mechanisms on their robots.

Robert Guerra, President, Norgren Americas states, “Norgren is dedicated to the development of young scientific minds. We share the desire of the FIRST Organization to inspire students to innovate and become technology leaders in the field of pneumatics and fluid control.

FIRST Robotics is the largest organization of its kind, encouraging high school students from all over the world to form teams and create robots to compete each year for global recognition. This year the competition included more than 45,000 high school students creating over 1800 teams hailing from Australia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Germany, Herzegovina, Israel, Mexico, the Netherlands, Turkey and the UK, as well as 48 states in the US. There will be 44 Regional/State championships which will culminate with the FIRST Championship in Atlanta’s Georgia Dome April 15-17, 2010.

Norgren
www.norgren.com

FIRST
www.usfirst.org

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

Bimba Introduces its First Rod-Type Electric Actuator

Monee, IL — Bimba announces the introduction of its first ever, rod-type electric actuator, the Original Line Electric (OLE).

OLE actuators are designed, built, and tested to provide the longest life, greatest durability, highest speed, and most thrust per dollar. With speeds up to 22 inches per second, strokes to 18 inches standard, and thrusts up to 350 pounds, these new actuators can address a wide range of applications. The unique modular design can be ordered with or without motors and drivers’ from Bimba, enabling engineers to use their preferred stepper or servo brand.

The OLE product line is available in 1.5, 2, and 3 inch diameters with standard options including trunnion, block front, clevis, pivot, and foot mounts, reverse parallel motor mounts with rear pivot or clevis, step motors, drivers, encoders, brakes, washdown ratings, female rod threads, and switches.

Bimba Manufacturing
www.bimba.com/ole

Enfield Technologies Makes Proportional Pneumatic Control More Affordable

Thanks to some innovative engineering, Enfield Technologies has reached an important goal – making a complete proportional pneumatic control system much more affordable.

A basic positioning system includes a proportional valve and control electronics manufactured by Enfield Technologies paired with a pneumatic actuator and a position sensor provided by a variety of highly regarded partner companies. The same valves and control electronics used in motion control are also used for proportional pressure, flow, and force regulation applications.

During the last 18 months, Enfield Technologies has revised its sourcing and manufacturing processes. They have also reengineered several key products, adding new features, improving performance and reducing costs. This has allowed the company to offer price reductions averaging 42 percent on its primary components. For example, the LS-C10 controller dropped 70 percent, from $564 to $169.20, and the LS-V25s proportional valve dropped 45 percent, from $721 to $396.60. Enfield Technologies has also implemented volume discounts and an additional 5 percent bundle discount (bundle kits include a controller, valve and cable).

Enfield Technologies has added more than 35 technical resellers and integration partners over the last year. The company has also launched several new products, including the Enfinity System (C2 controller and M2 valves).

For more information, visit http://enfieldtech.com/affordable/

Enfield Technologies
www.enfieldtech.com

North American Pneumatic Actuators Markets Report Released

Research and Markets has announced the addition of Frost & Sullivan’s new report “North American Pneumatic Actuators Markets” to their offering.

This report titled North American Pneumatic Actuators Market provides the market dynamics of complete pneumatic product segment such as NFPA, non-repairable, mini/compact, rodless, rotary, slide, ISO VDMA type of actuators. In this research, Frost & Sullivan’s expert analysts thoroughly examine end-user analysis and distribution trends.

End-Users Prefer Innovation in Technology and Differentiation in Product Offering in the North American Actuators Market

With end-users cutting back on investments due to the economic slump, and demanding newer technologies and more product differentiation, participants in the North American actuators market are finding the going tough. The economy is expected to look up by the second quarter of 2010; till then, actuator manufacturers are focusing on high demand sectors such as food, packaging, and material handling to sustain growth. “While most end user segments are witnessing negative growth, manufacturers are targeting niche segments where demand is growing,” says the report. “Acceptance of standardized actuators such as National Fluid Power Association (NFPA) and ISO (International Standards Organization) and VDMA (Verband Deutscher Maschinen- und Anlagenbau) by end-user segments such as automotive has also helped in continuous production and revenue generation for the actuators market.”

Nonetheless, the economic crisis has resulted in a decline in pneumatic actuators sales for most manufacturers, and is compelling them to examine other market opportunities globally. Increased revenues are anticipated in the North American pneumatic actuators market as many companies continue to form alliances with overseas market participants to expand their customer base and provide more complete product lines. The unrelenting rise in the prices of raw materials has also facilitated the increase in product prices and hence revenues for the pneumatic actuators market, especially for NFPA products that find application in the food and packaging industries.

The growth of the pneumatic actuators market is aligned with the recovery of the U.S. economy. The development of value-added packages will attract potential clients toward manufacturers who have the capacity to offer complete solutions to end-users,” concludes the analyst. “The incorporation of control valves into sale of actuators is an example of this strategy in action.”

www.researchandmarkets.com