When evaluating a production system’s adherence to safety standards, electrical considerations are usually the top priority. A thorough risk assessment, however, requires that the fluid power components also be reviewed, especially considering they are often the final control element.
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Replacing linear pots with non-contact technology
Typical resistive linear potentiometers are especially vulnerable to performance degradation caused by wear to the resistive element. Because the measurement principle relies on mechanical contact between the resistive element and conductive wiper, mechanical wear can lead to erratic output signals and, ultimately, unreliable process control.
A look back at IFPE 2011
Last week’s IFPE show, held in conjunction with the CONEXPO/CON-AGG events in Las Vegas, was by almost any measure a blockbuster. 120,000 registered attendees from 150 countries saw 2400 exhibitors that took up 2.34 million sq-ft of exhibit space.
IFPE hits as manufacturing gains momentum
As the triennial IFPE fluid power and motion control show readies for a March 22-26 run in Las Vegas, things are looking decidedly upbeat.
2011 IFPE Technical Conference preview
At IFPE 2011, the 52nd National Conference on Fluid Power will be the cornerstone of expanded education. The conference focus is on new technologies and methodologies within the fluid power industry related to improved analysis, design, manufacturing and performance of fluid power components and systems for mobile and industrial markets.
CCEFP demonstrates air-powered ankle foot orthosis
Researchers at several of the Center for Compact and Efficient Fluid Power institutions are working on the development of the next generation AFO that will push the limits of fluid power technology.
MD&M West show wrap-up
The Medical Design & Manufacturing show, held at the Anaheim Convention Center last week, was really just a part of the overall action, with sister shows focusing on packaging, electronics, automation, plastics, aerospace/defense, and sustainable manufacturing.
Clean air is crucial for optimal pneumatics
Removing moisture and contaminants ensure that the pneumatic systems do not experience premature wear or damage.
Performance, value in Maximatic line of valves, FRLs
The new Maximatic product line of pneumatic valves, FRLs and components features maximum performance and maximum value.
Milk in a minute—packing lines stack cartons 20% faster
The automation specialists at Advanced Machine Co. in Norway, have developed packing lines that can stack almost 30 different versions of filled milk cartons in containers.