Machines

Case Hydrostatic Dozers Featured in New Brochures

noreply@blogger.com (Priya) — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 13:36:00 +0000

Case Hydrostatic Dozers Featured in New Brochures

Case Hydrostatic Dozers Featured in New Brochures
By Article Admin | Published 01/18/2008 | Wheel Dozers | Unrated

Case Hydrostatic Dozers Featured in New Brochures

Recently introduced and upgraded hydrostatic dozer models from Case Construction Equipment are the subjects of two new brochures available for download from www.casece.com or through Case dealers.

One brochure describes the recently introduced, Tier III-certified Case 1150K crawler dozer, featuring a hydrostatic transmission, a new cab design, a low effort electronic blade control and high-performance hydraulics. The 1150K dozer is well suited for land development and various earth moving applications.

The second brochure focuses on recent improvements to the Case 650K Series 2 crawler dozer. Upgrades include a new, higher performing engine, improvements to the operator’s compartment and hydrostatic PowerStat drive for maximum power through the turn. The Case 650K Series dozers are appropriate for use in a variety of construction, surface mining, earth moving and forestry applications.

The brochures also reiterate the Case leadership position in serviceability and maintainability as measured by SAE.

Additional Case product literature, covering the full range of Case equipment, is available through Case dealers or from the Case Web site.

Buying File Gallery: Dozers

noreply@blogger.com (Priya) — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 13:34:00 +0000

Buying File Gallery: Dozers

New Holland Construction

Improved Cooling and Cab Comfort

New Holland Construction

B-Series crawler dozers provide improved cooling. Machines can operate in ambient temperatures 10 degrees hotter than previous models, due to improved performance out of the radiator, transmission cooler and hydraulic cooler. A new radiator grill and perforated engine side panels improve airflow. Cab improvements include climate control, air ride seats, and finger lever controls.

Number of models: 5

New models: LS150.B, LS180.B

Product-line features: B-Series powershift transmission features three speeds in both forward and reverse and two push-button automatic features—auto load and auto shift. Controls are built into fully adjustable armrests: pilot controls handle steering and transmission; pilot-operated joystick controls the blade.

Dressta

Geared Steering Puts Full Power at Tracks

Two-speed geared-type steering drive delivers full power to both tracks while turning. Two left-hand steering levers hydraulically actuate oil-cooled multiple-disc clutch and brake packs. When the low-range detent position is attained, it engages the planetary clutch pack and its respective gear train for full-powered turns. Coupled to a three-speed transmission, the drive provides six forward and six reverse speeds.

Number of models: 10

New models: TD7H, TD9H, TD15H LA, TD20H LA, TD25H LA

Product-line features: Smaller dozers are available with torque converter powershift or direct-drive powershift drive trains. Medium and large dozers feature two-speed geared steering. Hexagonally shaped cab and suspended seat that can be angled 15 degrees have improved visibility; air conditioning, heating pressurization and filtration enhance operator comfort.

Caterpillar

Integrated Components Optimize Life

Drive-train components on the D5N and D6N are electronically integrated. The operator can pre-select a forward and reverse gear for easy directional changes, and an auto-kickdown function makes the transmission downshift when it detects significant load increases. Clutch electronics modulate clutches individually for improved shift quality, and load-compensating shifting adjusts engagement timing based on load factor. Controlled throttle shifting regulates engine speed during high-energy directional changes.

Number of models: 12

New models: D3, D4, and D5 G-Series; D5N; D6N

Product-line features: AccuGrade Laser Grade Control system is factory-installed on dozers less than 100 horsepower. Differential steering, available on some models, has a separate hydraulic pump that gives the operator plenty of flow for steering and using implements.

Komatsu America

Electronics Provide Speed Control

The KomStat II line, which includes the D31, D37 and D39, adds the exclusive electronic control hydrostatic transmission. Combined with the ergonomically designed palm-fitting pilot controls, these dozers provide operators with 20 increments of speed adjustment in variable mode, or three distinct speed ranges in intermediate mode. In both instances, operators are able to match dozing speed to site conditions. Adjustable reverse speed control allows the machine to reverse at speeds different from its chosen forward speed.

Number of models: 27

New models: D31-21, D37-21, D39-21, D65-15, D85-15. D61-15 to be introduced in the fall.

Product-line features: Hydrostatic steering system has a larger steering pump and motor capacity for minimum turning radius with greater steering forces. Palm-command control system allows control to both tracks and blade in direct proportion to control lever movement.

Liebherr

Maximum Load, Minimum Fuel

PR734’s hydrostatic drive provides high fuel efficiency, in addition to providing continuously variable speed control and high maneuverability. Spacious cab interior is quiet. Serviceability is enhanced with a tilting cab, centralized service points, and data download via notebook.

Number of models: 5

New models: PR734

Product-line features: The superior climbing ability offered by hydrostatics, coupled with a low center of gravity, give these machines stable performance even in extreme terrain. An electronic engine speed sensing control protects drive components from overload without compromising performance.

John Deere

Power Management Delivers Efficiency

Full-featured hydrostatic drive on the 230-hp 950C delivers power turns, infinite speed control and power management. With an infinitely variable range from 0 to 6.8 mph, the dozer allows an operator to choose the ground speed. As loads change, the drive train responds, automatically powering up or down to maintain peak engine rpm and efficiency. Liebherr manufactures both the 950C and 1050C for Deere.

Number of models: 8

New models: 750C and 850C Series II, 950C

Product-line features: Wet-sleeve engines provide maximum life. The same multi-viscosity engine oil is used in the engine and hydrostatic drive to reduce customer cost. The same style power-train design is used in all models, so fleets can develop operators more readily, enabling them to move easily from one Deere dozer to another.

Case

Larger Pumps Power Tracks

Hydrostatic pumps and motors were enlarged on the 650, 750 and 850 K Series dozers, enabling the dual-path drive to maintain a 2:1 power ratio speed when steering. Each side has components sized to accommodate high horsepower so larger blade loads can be pushed through curves. Operators control the drive with a single lever, which has electronic straight tracking, two bump-up, bump-down speed buttons with six speed increments, and an adjustable ratio of reverse to forward speed.

Number of models: 7

New models: 650K, 750K, 850K

Product-line features: With a larger-diameter sprocket, two additional teeth have been added to extend undercarriage life. The operator platform is isolation-mounted from the main frame to cushion against noise and vibration. Visibility has been increased with a direct line of sight to the back of the blade.

http://www.constructionequipment.com/article/CA468598.html?taxid=7845

Cat 824g series II wheel dozer built for rugged applications

noreply@blogger.com (Priya) — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 13:32:00 +0000

Cat 824g series II wheel dozer built for rugged applications

Caterpillar says its new 824G Series II wheel dozer is designed and built for high productivity and long life in a variety of rugged applications. With its higher horsepower engine, high-capacity cooling system and ergonomically designed operator’s station, the 824G Series II machine is suitable for production dozing, spreading, backfilling, stockpiling, haul road maintenance and job site clean-up.

Maximum operating weight for the G Series II wheel dozer is 28,724kg. It is powered by a Cat 3406E diesel engine with electronic unit injection. This six-cylinder, turbocharged and air-to-air after-cooled engine delivers 253 net kilowatts (339 net horsepower), a 7% increase over the 824G. The engine uses advanced electronic controls to optimise performance, improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. It meets Stage II and Tier 2 emissions requirements and has a reputation as one of the most reliable, durable, high-performance engines Caterpillar offers.

An upgraded cooling system is also featured on the new wheel dozer. The advanced modular cooling system, a Caterpillar exclusive, is said to provide better cooling capability and reduces service time.

The new machine is equipped with a planetary powershift transmission with four speeds forward, four reverse. Electronic controls enhance performance, improve wear life and shorten diagnostic and repair time. According to the company, electronic clutch pressure control improves shift quality and reduces torque spikes to enhance operator comfort and durability. Controlled throttle shift allows the operator to make smooth, full-speed directional and speed changes without harming the transmission.

A well-balanced hydraulic system on the Series II wheel dozer allows precise, low-effort blade control. The standard straight blade for the machine pushes up to 4.67m3 of material. Its multiple box-section construction, heat treated mouldboard and DH-2 steel edges and end bits make the blade durable. An optional Coal Blade, Woodchip U-Blade And Extreme Service U-Blade are also available. Other options include a counterweight, sliding cab windows, floodlights and a full-cover fender package.

New steel front fenders are standard on the G Series II machine, replacing the non-metallic design on the previous model. An all-steel hood arrangement has also been incorporated on the updated wheel dozer to enhance durability.

The dozer offers many features for the operator. The new model retains command control steering with integrated transmission controls are claimed to reduce fatigue. The blade control pod is situated at the optimum angle for natural wrist positioning, and the heavy-duty joystick provides a sturdy handle for multiple hand positions. The blade tip switch is a button located on the control handle, rather than the control pod. This allows the operator to activate the blade tip function without removing his hand from the control handle. A throttle lock feature lets the operator set the engine speed and remove his foot from the accelerator pedal, much like cruise control in an automobile.

The left foot pedal acts as both a decelerator and a brake, enabling the operator to slow down when the throttle lock is engaged and return to throttle lock without pressing a button, improving manoeuvrability around shovels, trucks and other obstacles. A six-way adjustable Cat Comfort seat incorporates heavy-duty air suspension for a better ride.

A 12V power supply source inside the cab permits the use of radios, telephones or laptop computers. This is particularly useful for powering a laptop running Electronic Technician, an advanced diagnostic tool.

Maintenance and service time have been reduced on the updated wheel dozer. Most daily maintenance can be done from ground level. Scheduled maintenance points are easy to reach. The engine’s oil change interval has been extended from 250 to 500 hours. A swing-out oil cooler and hinged air conditioner condenser minimize cleaning time. The operator’s station can be removed in about 45 minutes without having to disconnect hydraulic lines.

Basic Specifications - 824G Series II Wheel Dozer

Engine Cat 3406E ATAAC

Gross power 283kW

Flywheel power 253kW

Operating weight* 28,724kg

Wheelbase 3700mm

Ground clearance 400mm

Straight blade capacity 4.67m3

Straight blade width 4507mm

Straight blade height 430mm

Axles Fixed front, oscillating rear (± 13º)

Transmission Planetary powershift, 4F, 4R

* Approximate maximum operating weight
http://www.ferret.com.au/articles/b9/0c011eb9.asp

Wheeled Loader in Composting

noreply@blogger.com (Priya) — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 13:31:00 +0000

Wheeled Loader in Composting

Walsh Mushrooms, founded by Pat Walsh in 1979, has established itself as one of the leading marketeers of fresh mushrooms to the UK, providing a high quality marketing service to growers in Ireland, the UK, Holland and Poland. Sister company, Custom Compost of Gorey, Co Wexford is recognised as a major producer of value-added mushroom compost, selling its compost to mushroom producers throughout Ireland. Having invested heavily in a state-of-the-art composting facility, Custom Compost recently added a new Liebherr L 5502plus2 articulated wheeled loading shovel to its fleet of materials handlers.

Walsh Mushrooms is one of the largest businesses in the mushroom industry and, says the company, accounts for around 10% of the UK fresh mushroom market. The compost production facility in County Wexford is the powerhouse of the group’s Irish operations and, over the past ten years, Custom Compost has invested more than €12 Million to make this the most modern, technically advanced and environmentally friendly operation in Ireland and the UK. The facility currently produces and delivers over 1,300 tonnes of high quality compost weekly and is licensed under the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The group also has a smaller facility in the UK - Agricultural Supply Company (Fairford) Limited, near Cirencester, Gloucestershire - producing mushroom compost and green waste.

Custom Compost pioneered aerated bunker compost in Ireland twelve years ago, followed in 1999 by the creation of Ireland’s first fully enclosed indoor aerated tunnels, combined with exhausting emissions at height which, in turn, is further enhanced by an overhead filling system for optimum uniform material mix. This year, Custom Compost invested a further €1,5M on enclosing the rest of the composting process, adding a 40 metres high exhaust stack to significantly disperse and dilute any emissions that may occur. Tunnel systems are state-of-the-art, purpose built and computer controlled and are carefully managed under a stringent hygiene programme to ensure clean, selective and consistent compost.

The company’s approach to materials handling equipment is as rigorous as their attention to detail in the composting process. “We surveyed the market, visited a number of other owners of loaders in the region and made many comparisons between the various makes available” says Director Mark Walsh. “We had seen Liebherr loading shovels at work during our frequent visits to Holland and heard good reports, so we obtained a machine from Liebherr here in Ireland for trials. The fuel efficiency and power of the L 550 were impressive”, he continued, “plus the significant quietness of the machine was an added bonus and an important factor when choosing the Liebherr, as we are very conscious of keeping both noise and production emissions down to a minimum”.

The L 5502plus2 is an articulated, hydrostatically driven wheeled loader in the 16 tonnes class, with a tipping load of 11,650kg and is one of a range of sixteen hydrostatic wheeled loading shovels from Liebherr. Power is supplied by a new generation Tier III Liebherr made engine which develops 130kW. The model taken by Custom Compost is equipped with heavy-duty tyres with a traction tread to provide added traction, stability and durability in the load-and-carry application on site, which can become slippery due to the materials being handled. The arm is supplied with a heavy-duty quick-hitch for exchange of the buckets, forks and grab attachments needed for the wide variety of tasks demanded in this composting facility, which largely comprise cell loading and unloading.

Liebherr loaders feature a high level, isolated cooling system which is equipped with an automatically reversing fan to maintain radiator cleanliness and efficiency; cyclonic engine air pre-cleaners are also included to combat the dusty environment found in many recycling applications. The hydrostatic driveline system on the loader not only contributes to considerable fuel consumption benefits but also, with limited slip differential in both front and rear axles, produces good efficient pushing power whilst, at the same time, prolonging tyre life. An automatic greasing system is standard and greatly contributes to reducing maintenance time.

The operator’s cab is typically comfortable, air-conditioned and with full instrumentation. On Custom Compost’s loader, a single lever incorporates the forward and reverse direction change switches as well as the control for the auxiliary hydraulics that operate the grab jaw. This makes the machine easy to operate, as the driver’s left hand remains on the steering wheel while the right hand controls all other operations. This greatly contributes to the machine’s agility and accuracy during the working cycles.
http://www.hub-4.com/news/1287/wheeled-loader-in-composting

Caterpillar: To Invest $100 Million To Expand Shandong Plant

noreply@blogger.com (Priya) — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 13:29:00 +0000

Caterpillar: To Invest $100 Million To Expand Shandong Plant
Caterpillar Inc. (CAT) will invest “just north of” $100 million to triple production capacity at its Shandong unit over three years, and invest $20 million to build the first phase of an R&D center in Wuxi, CEO Jim Owens said at press conference Thursday.

The expansion of Shandong Engineering Machinery, which manufactures wheel loaders, will begin in 2009, Caterpillar said in a statement, without specifying the current or increased production capacity.

The U.S.-based company purchased a minority stake in SEM in 2005, and bought the remaining shares earlier this year.
http://money.cnn.com/news/newsfeeds/articles/djf500/2008082

Credit Card Processing & Merchant Account Services

noreply@blogger.com (Priya) — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 12:35:00 +0000

Paynet Systems provides credit card processing services to retail, wholesale, mail/phone order, commercial and eCommerce businesses. Because our systems and infrastructure are flexible we can offer custom-made programs for any business category. Doing business with you can be more convenient for your customers when you have Paynet Systems supporting your credit card processing needs for Visa®, MasterCard®, American Express®, Discover®, Diners Club, checks, and every major ATM card network nationwide. We will help add convenience and value to your customers while bringing savings and ease-of-use directly to your business.

With Paynet Systems merchant services, you can accept credit cards from all major credit card issuers. Additionally, Paynet Systems’ advanced merchant account services are better than competitively priced - We are unbeatable!

Need to apply for a Credit Card Merchant account? Click here to apply for credit card services and low-cost merchant account services. We can have your new or transferred account approved within 24-hours. And with our higher than 95% acceptance rate for new merchant accounts, you’re on the way to making your business more profitable and convenient.

We have many solutions to offer you. If a custom merchant service solution is required, our client services team will recommend the optimal solution for your business.

We affirm our client dedication by offering industry expertise, innovative and quality solutions, and a commitment to customer satisfaction all of which deliver your business savings without compromising the high quality service your business deserves.

Paynet Systems is your merchant services partner - providing secure, convenient, and affordable credit card processing services for your business.

Contact us for all your http://www.paynetsystems.com/html/contact_us.html needs.

Credit Card Terminals and Credit Card Equipment for Businesses

noreply@blogger.com (Priya) — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 12:34:00 +0000

USA Merchant Solutions is able to bring you the best pricing on credit card machines and equipment. We offer more credit card machines, accessories, and supplies at the lowest prices than any other site on the Internet or retail store. Our volume purchasing allows us to pass that savings on to you. No obligation for merchant services: we provide equipment to all merchants in the United States without any obligation to sign up. For businesses needing to accept credit cards, we can give you the best rates in the industry, with Month-to-Month contracts.

Why Choose USA Merchant Solutions for your Credit Card Machines & Equipment

Our company has chosen to provide you with an equipment source that doesn’t penalize you for having your account with someone else. We do this because we have nothing to gain by dishonesty. Most of our buyers see our price, and come back to us later for our services.

* Pricing stays the same on all our credit card equpment WITH or WITHOUT an Account
* If you just want to buy, you will not be hassled by our staff to do otherwise.
* Our staff does not make commission. This means, no high pressure sales tactics.
* We’ve serviced over 10,000 Merchants Nationwide.
* Our merchant accounts are on a month to month basis. You can cancel at any time with no cancellation fee. If we don’t do our job, you don’t have to stay with us.
* We disclose everything up front, including mid and non-qualified rates.
* We gaurantee we can beat your bank.

Mat Cutter equipment available from Machines4u.com

noreply@blogger.com (Priya) — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 12:24:00 +0000

Mat Cutter equipmentMachines4u.com has a selection of new and used Mat Cutter types to suit picture framing cutting requirements.

If you have a small workshop and only require a small Mat Cutter to cut various types of backing boards there are several models to choose from.

If you have a larger workshop and require a mat cutter that is more heavy duty then you maybe more interested in the larger CNC controlled high production models with a faster cutting capacity.

You can search and compare though different mat cutter types 24 hours a day, seven days a week all at the touch of you keyboard.

If you need to sell you existing mat cutter you can do this by placing an advertisement with a full description and digital photos which will then get advertised across Australia instantly.

Whether you are a machinery dealer in Sydney or have a cabinet making shop in Alice Springs you can easily place and control advertisements of your mat cutter that will go live to hundreds of potential buys across the globe within minutes.

Here are 3 tips to consider when buying your next mat cutter:

* Choose a machine that will keep up with the demand of your work load
* Position the mat cutter in the best part of your factory that will work in with your current work flow
* Cost in any extras that you will need for your mat cutter in advance so that you do not get caught with additional cost on installation. (Eg extra power, tooling, operator training, loading and unloading, computers & software)

http://www.ferret.com.au/c/Machines4u-com

Processingtalk Review of the MTEC 2008 Exhibition

noreply@blogger.com (Priya) — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 12:23:00 +0000

What was there that was worth seeing, for the average visitor, at MTEC? Our review tries to pull out some different aspects of the old products, and the new products on display this year

As with other major exhibitions, the temporary section on the Processingtalk website offering the MTEC previews presented the press releases issued before the event, allowing some planning of what was worth seeing for the time constrained visitor (After the event these press releases will be re-allocated to the relevant product categories on the website).

What was there that was worth seeing, for the average visitor?

MTEC is one of a group of shows, with others co-located in adjacent NEC Halls, including Practical Vacuum and Machine Building: previously organised by Trident Exhibitions, and referred to as the February Exhibitions, they were always scheduled around Valentine’s Day.

The shows are now run by Canon Communications, and obviously they have other plans for Valentine’s day, so they are moving the Exhibitions next year to be in March, 25th-26th to be exact: http://www.processingtalk.com/news/caa/caa103.html.

Hopefully this will give them time to re-organise the admission booth system, which caused major delays for visitors just trying to collect pre-booked tickets this year, as Eoin O’Riain of Read-out reported: http://www.processingtalk.com/news/rdo/rdo137.html.

* IMC GROUP: HANWELL, LAMERHOLM AND JEKYLL.

The newly formed IMC Group (http://www.processingtalk.com/news/imu/imu000.html) were exhibiting at MTEC with their three main product ranges, Hanwell, Lamerholm and Jekyll.

IMC seems to be concentrated around data logging and alarm systems, via wireless or GSM links, with the Hanwell release being based around an alarm unit that sends text messages out until there is an acknowledgement from someone who will deal with the problem.

Lamerholm initially specialized in damage deterrent labels, with their ShockWatch indicator, to visibly show that the package or shipment has been subjected to excessive G-forces from mishandling (http://www.processingtalk.com/news/lah/lah000.html).

The logging version of this, ShockLog, produces a record from a datalogger, and now to this they have added the TiltWatch, incorporating a new Tilt and Roll monitoring accelerometer, to record when other events occur during transport: http://www.processingtalk.com/news/lah/lah133.html.

Capabilities then developed into other alarm systems for transport problems, such as for temperature monitoring in refrigerated containers, to alarm when the temperature rises above a trip point: and there too is an application for the wireless or GSM systems available from the rest of the group.

Historically Hanwell has been involved in Building Management Systems, with humidity and temperature monitoring sensors, and one recent project again used Jekyll wireless technology to transmit signals from several remote buildings across a road to the main control room.

Half the battle of applying modern sensor and wireless technology is having the customer interface where the needs can be identified, and then solved.

Jekyll expertise in datalogging, Automatic Meter Reading systems, remote modems, wireless and GSM technologies is applicable to many areas: Jekyll are seeking new distributors for these products across the world (http://www.processingtalk.com/news/jek/jek000.html).

* WIRELESS AND USB: JUMO, ESI TECHNOLOGY AND LASCAR.

More wireless temperature transmission was on the Jumo stand, with their Wtrans system, a simple IP67 temperature sensor with a battery and transmitter in the handle, supplied with platinum sensors from 50mm to 1000mm long.

Back in the monitoring centre, one receiver monitor can deal with up to 16 wireless probes, and even provide 4 analogue outputs (http://www.processingtalk.com/news/jum/jum000.html).

Similarly on the Ellison Sensors (ESI Technology) stand: while Ellison, from Wrexham, are well known for their silicon-on-sapphire pressure sensors, they had their USB connected GS4200-USB pressure transmitter on display, which can be directly logged, recorded, and displayed on a graphical chart, and is offered at around GBP200.

Ellison offer USB sensors for pressure, temperature, load and vibration monitoring (http://www.processingtalk.com/news/esc/esc000.html).

Lascar Electronics also had low cost USB powered thermocouple and temperature sensors on display this year, with a humidity sensor as well to enable environmental monitoring with email alerts: http://www.processingtalk.com/news/lsc/lsc000.html.

DIGITAL COMMUNICATIONS: PROFIBUS, ETHERNET AND IO-LINK.

The Profibus stand was manned by Andy Verwer from MMU (Manchester Metropolitan University) who run many of the UK based engineer and installer courses on Profibus and Profinet systems.

Apart from the scheduled courses and seminars around the country, the Profibus Competence Centre at MMU can arrange specific customer training courses on site, given a reasonable number of delegates.

The take-up of Profibus in the UK industries is growing, particularly in the water industry, and one of the reasons for this growth can be traced back to the support available from MMU and other similar organisations world-wide: http://www.processingtalk.com/news/tep/tep212.html.

Newly announced, the International Profibus User Conference will take place near Stratford-on-Avon at the end of June this year.

On the next stand Geoff Hodgkinson was representing his Industrial Ethernet magazine, a technology that is also seeing considerable growth in industry.

Then a new name to me was IO-Link, shown before the main release on the Balluff stand, a simplified digital communications and wiring system mainly aimed at use with multiple proximity switches, which can also be interfaced as a network subsidiary to Profibus or Profinet.

* FLOWMETERS: FLOTECH AND BRONKHORST.

Flotech Solutions, the UK distributor for the newly independent Brooks Instruments, have added some new agency lines to their flow capability, with the Swedish Eletta range of orifice plate based flow indicators, and a Flotech branded range of flap type flow indicators http://www.processingtalk.com/news/flo/flo000.html.

Over in the Practical Vacuum section of the event, Bronkhorst were showing their re-released Mass-View bar-graph type indicator, offered as a replacement for glass tube VA flowmeters on gases, but adding an electronic output: http://www.processingtalk.com/news/bro/bro123.html.

* PRESSURE: ROXSPUR SENSIT AND VISHAY NOBEL.

The Roxspur Measurement and Control stand featured a Speedway bike ridden by Josh Auty of the Coventry Bees: while he is sponsored by Roxspur and was under 15 Champion in 2004 and 2005, the link to their pressure, flow or temperature measurement and control products seemed a bit tenuous.

Apparently such bikes do not have brakes, they have other methods of control.

Anyway the main display was of the Sensit range of submersible sensors for water level measurement, now available in diameters ranging from 25mm down to 17.5mm: http://www.processingtalk.com/news/rox/rox000.html.

More pressure measurement sensors were visible on the Vishay stand, starting with strain gauge weighing systems, but also showing special pressure sensors for offshore use in drilling applications.

Another pressure range on show, maybe not yet fully released, were the transmitters for level and pressure from Klay-Instruments BV from Holland: Vishay stories can be seen on http://www.processingtalk.com/news/vsh/vsh000.html.

* GAS MONITORING: EDINBURGH INSTRUMENTS.

It is always nice to think that you have seen a bit of modern technology at an exhibition like MTEC.

Edinburgh Instruments sell infrared gas monitoring systems, in stand-alone boxes, but also as pcboards for use by OEMs who need to monitor gas compositions, for refrigerants, CO2, methane, and several other gases.

These look to be small simple instruments, in a standard enclosure: but when you get to see inside, the real life use of the NDIR laser based measurement becomes obvious.

You can see the sample gas tube, as long as 100mm in some cases, fed from the sample point by a simple suction pump where needed, and the laser transmitter and detector are sitting on opposite ends of the tube.

Optical and spectral measurement is one of the most interesting ways science can be applied to measure practical things, like in this case the concentration of a gas in a sample.

If astronomers can do it for galaxies millions of miles away, by adapting the telescope invented by Galileo, then instrument engineers can do it anywhere they can stick a gas sampling tube! But then this just shows the concept is not new, but maybe the devices required, which have presumably come from modern fibre-optic telephone communications cable systems, are new, and industrial instruments can benefit from the spin-off (http://www.processingtalk.com/news/edi/edi000.html).

* MOISTURE MEASUREMENT: MICHELL, BROWNELL AND VAISALA.

Michell Instruments showed their S8000 Integrale Cooled Mirror Dewpointmeter product range for the first time at MTEC.

Available in several versions, the instrument offers unmatched accuracy in dew point measurements for both calibration and process critical applications, down to -60C.

Also on show for the first time is the Michell DryCheck dew point instrument.

The DryCheck has been developed by Michell as a response to demands from customers for an accurate, reliable, stable, but economic instrument, with simple sampling system, that can be easily installed for use in a number of dew point measurement applications: http://www.processingtalk.com/news/mhe/mhe146.html.

Brownell showed the AGM Container Controls range of products from the USA, including their pressure and vacuum breather valves: AGM also act as a Brownell distributor for the USA.

These breather valves complement the Brownell range of desiccants and humidity protection products: http://www.processingtalk.com/news/brw/brw000.html.

On the Vaisala stand, the Humicap humidity and temperature transmitter series HMT330 offered several new features, including a data logging option and a USB connection cable for computers.

In addition, the HMT330 has a new display with a white background light for easier reading.

The data logging option is a module that is slotted into the transmitter, with an enhanced memory that can store data for three measured parameters.

* TEMPERATURE AND INFRA-RED: FLIR SYSTEMS, IMPAC INFRARED AND LABFACILITY.

Electrical and mechanical fault detection are the prime applications for the Flir Systems ThermaCAM thermal imaging cameras, and there is a model in the range to suit every job and every budget.

For a limited period only, any order for the ThermaCAM T400, T360 or InfraCAM will be upgraded to a complete operator’s kit, with an extended warranty as well, worth around GBP50: http://www.processingtalk.com/news/frs/frs143.html.

IMPAC Infrared, now part of the Lumasense group of companies, showed the newly developed Series 50 pyrometers for the first time in the UK.

Based on the well proven IMPAC digital technology these fibre optic pyrometers offer exceptional performance previously only found in high end instruments: http://www.processingtalk.com/news/ipa/ipa141.html.

Labfacility, apart from manufacturing temperature sensors and transmitters, is offering to supply components and installation fittings for sensor manufacturers for other sensor manufacturers, after a major investment in the CNC machinery needed to produce such parts as compression glands, pot seals, bayonet caps and adaptors, thermopockets and swaged tips: http://www.processingtalk.com/news/lbf/lbf120.html.

In a necessarily quick tour round some of the many stands at MTEC I did not have the chance to attend any of the presentation lectures also organised in the exhibition, like many of the visitors.

Many of these presentations undoubtedly had been well thought out, and I hope their authors are able to present their stories to a more attentive and larger gathering at some future date: maintaining coherence while fighting with the Tannoy system and the passing traffic of Exhibition visitors along the aisles was not an easy task.

If any wish to have their papers published on Processingtalk, we would be delighted to receive them, for us all to read at a more convenient time.

http://www.processingtalk.com/news/whp/whp215.html

Electronic circuit board refurbishment service from Eltiv Australia Electronic Engineering

noreply@blogger.com (Priya) — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 12:21:00 +0000

A new service targeting those companies contemplating upgrading their process control system is now being made available to the Australian market from Eltiv Australia Electronic Engineering.

EltivPro is a proactive electronic circuit board refurbishment service.

It consists of a comprehensive set of engineering inspection, repair, refurbishment and test tasks performed on the electronic circuit boards of a process control system (PLC, DCS,CNC or any other specialised equipment).

At the end of this process, the control system will be upgraded to new technology levels and can be brought back in service immediately.

The list of the engineering steps taken to perform this service includes:

* Identifying the electronic components on the card
* Ensuring availability of the above components
* Inspecting the PCB for visible and mostly those faults that are not visible to the naked eye using sophisticated testing and inspection equipment
* Cleaning card and contacts
* Replacing all degradable components (capacitors, resistors, relays, diodes)
* Replacing damaged, compromised or low performance components (connectors, batteries, LEDs)
* Mounting sockets to all major ICs
* Correcting any PCB or circuit faults
* Quality inspection testing
* Commissioning the system

Some of the benefits of this service are:

* Substantial financial savings (40-60% )
* No other infrastructure, hardware or software modification required
* Significant reduction in production downtime
* No additional spare parts or training required
* Reduced life cycle costing
* Simple plug and play installation

EltivPro is available from Eltiv Australia Electronic Engineering as a stand alone product or packaged with a maintenance plan.

http://www.ferret.com.au/c/Eltiv-Australia-Electronic-Engineering/

Automated cutting and forming machinery shown

noreply@blogger.com (Priya) — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 12:20:00 +0000

Intelligent, automated machinery for cutting and forming steel and aluminium includes automatic profile cutting machines, saws, and copy routers

Elumatec will be showing a whole range of metal cutting and metal forming machinery, including a wide range of profile cutting machines, saws, and copy routers, at the UK’s MACH 2008 machine tool exhibition. Managing director of Elumatec, Phil Heavey, said: ‘Companies that cut and route aluminium and steel for a variety of needs, have to be assured that the machinery that they use is reliable, efficient and cost effective.

We can offer intelligent, automated machinery for a massive range of applications where the fashioning of metal is required’.

Demonstrating Elumatec’s advanced technology in aluminium and steel fabrication will be a wide range products, including the advanced SBZ151 5-axis profile machine centre capable of drilling, routing, taping, cutting and notching.

The SAS142 represents the company’s extensive range of automatic saws suitable for cutting high-volumes of aluminium profiles for window manufacturing and industrial applications.

The SLK118 copy router will also be on display.

* Software - Also on display be Elumatec’s Puma Systems software package that allows the full presentation and extrapolation of technical data for the manufacture of long pieces of aluminium on screen and in 3D.

Specifically developed to serve multiple axes profile-machining centres, this highly advanced software system simplifies the programming sequence, which enables shorter running times and effects time and cost savings for aluminium fabricators.

Heavey said: ‘This is a significant piece of software for the industry.

The SAT interface accesses data from a huge range of 3D compatible software products and includes clamp management and path and tool optimisation, all clearly visible in 3D to allow the operative maximum visualisation of the component.

Quite simply, the package facilitates greater, faster and more accurate productivity for aluminium fabricators and we are very excited to be able to demonstrate its capabilities in conjunction with our CNC profile machining centres at the exhibition’.

Heavey told manufacturingtalk.com: ‘Our products have massive potential to enhance and improve the production processes involved in all areas of the industrial market, involving metal working and fabrication, and this has been proved by our diverse and ever-growing customer base’.

He continued: ‘As the foremost show in the industry, MACH 2008 provides the perfect forum for us to display our comprehensive product range and to demonstrate the unbeatable versatility, reliability and speed of some of our most popular machines.

Expert advice will also be on hand throughout the show and we relish this exciting opportunity to educate the engineering and manufacturing technologies sector in the advanced capabilities of our machinery’.

MACH 2008 is the essential exhibition for this market sector, with the last show attracting over 500 exhibitors and in excess of 22,000 visitors through the NEC doors.

Visitors encompass a broad range of industrial disciplines, including engineering, metal goods, aerospace and automatic industries.

The show is the only venue where all those involved in these industries can find out about new product and system development under one roof, said Elumatec.

* Elumatec UK at MACH 2008, NEC, Birmingham, UK, April 21-25, Hall 5, Stand 5574.

http://www.manufacturingtalk.com/news/eeh/eeh101.html

Panel folder available from Top Spec Machines

noreply@blogger.com (Priya) — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 17:52:00 +0000

Top Spec Machines has a 1999 RAS Flexibend 500 Panel Folder model 73.30 available for immediate delivery.

RAS Flexibend 500 Panel Folder model 73.30 is flexible and innovative and so you can do literally anything you wan to when it comes to creating unique, complex and value added parts for your customers.

For instance you can bend up to 3 mm thick mild steel. The CNC is on a pendant, and moves easily to the back of the machine for operation from the rear. The flexible backgauge and sheet support system can be configured as J or U shape.

Segmented Goats Foot tooling allows you to create virtually any shape you wish. The lower beam tooling and folding beam is also segmented, giving you the ability to accept reverse flanges.

http://www.ferret.com.au/c/Top-Spec-Machines/

Minimize Toolchange Times

noreply@blogger.com (Priya) — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 17:51:00 +0000

The Matrix Tool Magazine’s fourposition revolving disk keeps the next toolready and waiting for a machine’s toolchanger arm. This eliminates any delay, even after a short machining cycle.

Machine operators also can access a fully secure carousel-style rack to load tools without interrupting magazine operation. A high-speed servo-driven transfer robot then delivers tools to the work area.

As a stationary tool-storage rack, the Matrix allows shops to tool up their Toyoda (www.toyoda.com) horizontal machining centers for more part numbers, keep back-up tools on hand and eliminate time-consuming trips to the toolroom.

The system accommodates as many as 500 tools, and a compact version holds 184 tools. Maximum tool lengths handled are 21.6 in., maximum diameters are 9.84 in., and maximum tool weights are 59.4 lb.

Features that make the Matrix easy to use include PC-based software, tool identification and monitoring, and OP Supporter software. The magazine’s compact design houses an array of tools in a footprint about the same height as the machine tool itself.

PC-based software shows a layout of the entire Matrix magazine, with easy-to-use touch-screen navigation. A second touch on any tool displays detailed information and an image for that specific tool.

The magazine controller reads the part program to pre-select and display the needed tools. Continuous monitoring the magazine, loading station and revolver keeps track of every tool.

Toyoda’s OP Supporter software enhances tool management by providing a convenient overview of the magazine at the machine CNC. This confirms that the right subprograms and tools are ready for each job. Tool change speed is automatically adjusted according to weight for optimal cycle time.

http://www.americanmachinist.com/304/Issue/Article/False/78570/Issue

Device measures and presets tooling optically

noreply@blogger.com (Priya) — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 17:49:00 +0000

A highly accurate optical tool presetting and measuring device can clamp, measure and adjust tooling outside the machine while the CNC machine continues to manufacture parts

Schunk has introduced its highly accurate TRISet optical tool presetting and measuring device. The TRISet is suitable for all conventional tool clamping systems and as an additional bonus, the Schunk Tribos clamping device can be integrated as an option to enable Tribos tools to be length set, clamped and measured in seconds.

The TRISet allows users to significantly increase machine running times and reduce machine down time caused by tool setting.

Tools can be clamped, measured and adjusted outside the machine while the CNC machine continues to manufacture parts, delivering significant time savings.

* No axial displacement - the Tribos polygonal clamping technology is especially suitable for tool presetting.

In contrast to other toolholding systems, no axial displacement arises with the Tribos system as clamping occurs in the radial direction only.

The TRISet tool presetting system increases productivity in metal-cutting operations by 15% because the use of preset tools increases machine running times.

It also prevents reject components as even the first workpiece is machined to the exact size required with no deviation caused by the tool.

Moreover, said Schunk to manufacturingtalk.com, the TRISet offers the option of adjusting tools with exceptional precision using measurement programs for certain measurement tasks and checking the quality of the cutting edge.

Tool presetting enables micron precise tool measurement and this allows inspection of the cutting edge wear and edge quality.

The system also caters for measurement programs that monitor radial and axial run-out that determine the ‘highest cutting edge’ and ‘largest diameter’ dimensions.

* menu simplifies operation - the menu format simplifies operation considerably.

Length and diameter as well as cutting edge angle and cutting edge radius are detected within seconds thanks to ImageController1 image processing.

The setting devices are available in two measuring ranges with a measuring range of Z = 400mm and D = 400mm or a measuring range of Z = 600mm and D = 400mm.

To ensure quality over the long term, the Schunk Tribos presetting device depends on high-quality components, such as the Heidenhain measuring systems, THK guidance, Bosch pneumatics and computers from Sirius.

It is also important to highlight the tool mounting spindle with 4 x 90 deg indexing and 360 deg brake as well as the integrated calibration edge.

* Tribos polygonal clamping technology - the Tribos polygonal clamping technology was patented and developed by Schunk in 1997 and is based on a polygonal shape of the clamping bore.

In unclamped condition, it has a polygonal cross section.

If an exactly defined external force is applied to the clamping side of the toolholder, the clamping bore will deform.

The toolholder shank can now be introduced into a larger, circular bore.

After this force is removed, the clamping bore will return to its original shape and will clamp the tool shank.

Within seconds, the tool is changed using a hydraulic clamping device.

http://www.manufacturingtalk.com/news/shu/shu142.html

Speed up quality checks in CNC machining

noreply@blogger.com (Priya) — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 17:48:00 +0000

To speed up quality control routines in CNC machining, a tool recognition system can detect broken tools in under a second, while a radio transmission probe reduces inspection times

Renishaw will present at the UK’s MACH 2008 machine tool exhibition products and training initiatives that will help businesses to reduce process times and minimise quality costs for a wide range of machining and measurement applications. Renishaw will be quoting two very different, but highly successful UK companies that are fighting back against overseas competition through a commitment to the latest technologies, and a tight focus on process control.

This contribution to speed is demonstrated by BK Tooling, which has just five employees, yet is successful in the highly competitive mould and pressure die-cast tools market.

Using Renishaw touch probes to automate part and tool setting, jobs can be changed over rapidly, and costs reduced by maximising machine up-time and eliminating scrap, said Renishaw.

* High-quality parts at competitive prices - a further example is provided by Martin Aerospace, which has recently won a new contract with Rolls-Royce owing to its ability to provide high-quality parts at competitive prices.

At its Lanarkshire factory the use of high-accuracy Renishaw touch probes and complementary inspection software, has reduced floor-to-floor times significantly.

This technology has also enabled strict process control regimes to be introduced, allowing the company to maintain very tight tolerances and reduce scrap on complex inconel parts.

Addressing the UK skills shortage * Skills shortages - based on its years of manufacturing experiences, both from its own factory and the many thousands of probing applications at customer sites, Renishaw has developed a training course based around a concept called the Productive Process Pyramid (PPP), which aims to help address the UK’s shortage of skilled engineers.

A network of Renishaw Productivity Centres (RPC) will be developed to deliver the courses, where students will be exposed to the principles and practical aspects of the PPP.

PPP is used to systematically identify and controls sources of variation in machining processes, and tackles topics such as design for manufacture, the control of process inputs and environmental stability.

The West Midlands Manufacturing Measurement Centre, based within Coventry University, has been announced as the first RPC, and will commence courses in Spring 2008.

* New products - at MACH, Renishaw will show, for machine tool applications, its TRS2 tool recognition system.

The TRS2 takes typically less than 1s to detect broken tools.

For users looking to reduce inspection times by measuring complex 3D part geometries on all sizes of machining centres, Renishaw’s new RMP600 compact, high accuracy touch probe with radio signal transmission, is a powerful solution.

Also being demonstrated is Renishaw’s twin-probe system, which uses a single optical receiver for tool setting probes together with a spindle-mounted touch probe for component inspection, offering fast integration.

This will comprise the OMP40-2 touch probe and Renishaw OTS cable-less tool setter, which is particularly suitable for machines with twin pallets or rotary tables.

* Compact laser interferometer - for visitors to MACH 2008 looking to optimise machine performance, the Renishaw XL-80 is a compact laser interferometer measurement system.

Renishaw told manufacturingtalk that it combines portability, performance and ease of use for calibration routines.

* CMM developments - for CMM users, the revolutionary REVO 5-axis measuring head and probe system can improve inspection throughput levels by up to 900% on machines previously fitted with 3-axis scanning systems.

* machine tool builders - for designers within the machine tool industry, Renishaw’s SiGNUM non-contact RESM angle encoder has a large through-hole making it ideal for high-speed feedback on machine tool rotary axes, and is now available with FANUC serial communications.

For applications that require the highest accuracy, the REXM angle encoder offers new levels of angular metrology, with better than +/-1 arc sec total installed accuracy, zero coupling losses and exceptional repeatability.

http://www.manufacturingtalk.com/news/rea/rea468.html

Affordable robotic bending cell is easy to operate

noreply@blogger.com (Priya) — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 17:47:00 +0000

The first showing of a competitively priced, automated robotic bending cell will demonstrate its easy operation and programming for small to medium sized sheet metal components

LVD said it will be concentrating on ‘cost-effective’ sheet metal working automation and integrated sheet metalworking systems at the UK’s MACH 2008 machine tool exhibition. LVD will exhibit two machines never exhibited in the UK before, including one making its world debut. * Affordable robotic bending cell - making its world debut the LVD RoboCell automated robotic bending cell offers affordable automated bending.

LVD told manufacturingtalk.com that the cell combines the company’s extensive press brake bending technology and Kuka robotic material handling integrated under an off-line LVD CADMAN software system.

Competitively priced against other robotic bending cells in the market, LVD said its RoboCell is easy to operate and program.

The cell is ideal for companies looking for affordable automation of the bending of small to medium sized components.

Flexible and intuitive RoboCell enables the operator to move from ‘art to part’ faster and with fewer interventions than other conventional robotic bending cells, said LVD.

* CNC laser cutting - complementing the new RoboCell, the LVD Orion 3015 plus CNC laser cutting machine is complete with automated autoload unit and makes its UK debut.

LVD said that the Orion 3015 Plus is ideal for subcontractors or OEMs, which require a compact and value minded automated laser cutting solution.

The Orion 3015 Plus Autoload provides cost-effective automated laser cutting in a robust, reliable and compact package.

* Off-line programming - LVD will also exhibit its leading CADMAN offline software solutions including the following.

* CADMAN B 3D - Bending.

* CADMAN P - Punching.

* CADMAN L - Laser cutting.

The software will demonstrate how LVD can combine the manufacturing processes providing customers with the fastest route from ‘art to part’.

Managing director of LVD in the UK, Chris Phillips, said: ‘Affordable mid-level automation is becoming increasing important for sheet metalworking companies these days.

The balance of should you automate or should you add labour is an on going struggle for most sheet metalworking companies.

We are looking forward to discussing and demonstrating to new and existing clients how we can provide them with an affordable and cost-effective automated solution for their sheet metalworking shop’.

* About LVD - the LVD Group is a leading manufacturer of a comprehensive range of sheet metal/plate working machine tools and software solutions, including laser cutting systems, punch presses, press brakes, guillotine shears and mid-level automation systems, integrated and supported by its CADMAN PC-based Windows compatible software.

The Group’s UK subsidiary, LVD Limited, has its headquarters, showroom and service centre in Banbury, Oxfordshire.

* LVD at MACH 2008, NEC, Birmingham, UK, April 21-25, Hall 4, Stand 4466.

http://www.manufacturingtalk.com/news/lvd/lvd173.html