I/O control module
DAJAC INC., WESTFIELD, IN. Expert I/O 1000 is a simple-to-use input/output control module that supports automated testing, processing, single and distributed machine control, and classroom learning. The compact module (6.125 in. x 3.375 in. x 2.25 in.) connects to a computer through a USB port. It supports 16 digital inputs, 16 digital outputs, two analog outputs (six selectable ranges each), six analog inputs, and two dc motor controllers with integrated amplifiers. Users can set the device to any push-pull output voltage between 3.3 V and 27 V, because it uses software configurable digital input pull resistors that replace external pull resistors.
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Mid-range power connector
MOLEX INC., LISLE, ILL. The Mini-Fit H2O is a weatherproof, compact connection system designed for wire-to-wire applications of up to 9 A per circuit. The system is IP67-rated, which ensures connector integrity when submersed in up to one meter of water. The product family consists of plug and receptacle assemblies, and male and female crimp terminals. The plug and receptacle assemblies are equipped with pre-installed interface and wire seals, providing customers with a lower applied cost compared to connectors with manually installed seals. According to Molex, the compact size of the Mini-Fit H2O makes it suitable for tight-space applications such as those found in automobiles, lighting systems, and medical devices. The terminals have a new “wingless” design that will not damage seals upon installation or removal. Features include a positive-locking system to ensure the connectors are securely mated and prevent accidental unmating, and UV-stabilized materials.
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 Compact data logger
SAELIG CO., PITTSFORD, N.Y. Model MSR165 is a high-resolution triaxial digital accelerometer mini-datalogger, capable of taking 1,000 shock and vibration measurements per second across all three axes. The product allows for simultaneous recording of temperature, humidity, pressure, light, and analog input voltage data. It can store more than two million measurement parameters. The data logger can continuously record for 32 milliseconds before a main shock event. As a result, the user is able to investigate the exact time-history of the shock event itself. The data logger’s low power requirements are due to its triaxial digital accelerometer (150 microamperes, 13-bit resolution). A rechargeable 900 mAh lithium-polymer battery allows the logger to record shock measurements over a period of up to six months. The unit measures 39 x 23 x 72 mm, and has a mass of approximately 69 grams.
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Lightweight core shafts
NIMCOR INC., NASHUA, N.H. Carbon fiber core shafts are custom engineered for optimum performance. Winding configurations, fiber modulus ratings, composite resins, and curing cycles for each shaft are all controlled by an in-house ISO-certified winding operation. Carbon fiber and fiberglass tubes are economically produced on special winding mandrels. Fitted with steel or aluminum ends, composite shafts are similar in weight to aluminum shafts but offer performance comparable to heavier steel shafts. Most carbon fiber core shafts are light enough to be lifted and handled by a single operator, significantly reducing the chance for worker injuries. Shafts are available with a variety of button sizes, lugs (serrated or plain), or leaves.
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Magnetic encoder
RENISHAW, INC., HOFFMAN ESTATES, ILL. Renishaw’s new AM4096 on-axis magnetic encoder provides 4,096 counts per revolution of absolute position feedback for high-speed digital motor and motion control applications. The 12-bit chip provides a programmable zero position and noncontact accuracy to 0.1 degrees at speeds of 60,000 rpm. The manufacturer says the product can replace potentiometers or optical encoders. The device operates at 3.3 V or 5 V, with a sleep mode to extend battery life. It provides 16 poles (eight pole pairs) of output, and incremental, absolute, linear (potentiometer), tacho generator, and sinusoidal outputs. Engineers can buy it pre-programmed or program it themselves and store the settings on the chip’s EEPROM.
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Direct-drive pump
FLOW INTERNATIONAL CORP., KENT, WASH. The HyPlex hybrid is a direct drive pump rated at 60,000 psi. The design includes the manufacturer’s patented automatic control valve, or Pac-V, technology and provides automatic pressure control. It uses cone aperture technology to automatically maintain a true pressure signal, regardless of the orifice size or pressure setting, allowing users to switch between orifice sizes without having to change anything on the pump to accommodate the increased or decreased water flow. According to the company, an exclusive new seal design extends the life of the pump, so users can reduce maintenance costs and increase their productivity.
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Circulation heater
WATLOW ELECTRIC MANUFACTURING CO., ST. LOUIS. The CAST-X 3000 circulation heater is an economically priced heater offering high flow volume at the required temperature through a single compact product. The heater consists of two helical coiled tubes and tubular elements cast into a robust aluminum body which serves as the heat transfer medium between the tubular element and the process tubes. The use of heavy wall 316L seamless process tubing assures high pressure operation. The manufacturer says typical applications include steam generation and superheating for process applications and applications where cleanliness is a major concern. The product can be used to heat volatile materials in cases such as deionized water, or in food and beverage applications where contamination could be a problem. The heater is also available with optional explosion-proof enclosure for use in hazardous environments. The CAST-X 3000 has a fluid path independent of the heater sheath to prevent fluid contamination. Its non-welded construction minimizes potential leakage, allows high-pressure operation, and is self-draining when mounted vertically.
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 Small thermostat
OMEGA ENGINEERING INC., STAMFORD, CONN. The KT011 Series of small thermostats is compact in design and DIN rail mountable. The thermostat has a wide adjustment range and is available with a Celsius (0-60°) or Fahrenheit (32-140°) scale. The CE-compliant product is equipped with color-coded temperature dials: red for normally closed models (thermostat opens at temperature rise), and blue for normally open models (thermostat closes at temperature rise). The price starts at $18.
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Flurocarbon sealing compound
TRELLEBORG SEALING SOLUTIONS, FORT WAYNE, IND. VCT11 sealing compound is a specially engineered low-temperature fluorocarbon (FKM) material. The company recommends it as particularly suitable for aerospace engine applications requiring high-temperature performance combined with low-temperature capabilities, something older generation FKM materials cannot achieve. According to Trelleborg, the material operating at temperatures below -40°C meets the requirements of AMS 7379, the globally recognized specification for low temperature FKMs. It also has a low compression set, which assures stability. In addition to demonstrating reliable performance in aviation fuels, VCT11 has tested resistant to high thermal stability oils, which contain antioxidants and additives that can cause embrittlement and deterioration of FKMs.
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Hose assembly
AMERICAN BOA INC., CUMMING, GA. Crimp-Tite is the company’s trademark for a crimped fitting system for hoses. American Boa says it is an alternative to welding and makes assembly faster. The process incorporates four components: fitting insert, crimp ferrule, composite rubber seal, and braided metal hose. The fitting insert and ferrule are positively locked together during radial-compression crimping. The company has published results of verification tests on its Web site. A low-pressure pneumatic test with a nitrogen bubble at 30 psi showed no leaks. An impulse test with hydraulic oil alternating between 0 and 375 psi at 27 cycles/min. exceeded 150,000 cycles. Saturated steam for 312 hours at temperatures from 450 to 525 °F and pressures of 422 to 847 psi also showed no leaks. The company says hose life is extended and costs are reduced because no heat is applied to metal for assembly.
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Vapor recovery measurement
EMERSON PROCESS MANAGEMENT, HOUSTON. The DL8000 preset controller has been enhanced with vapor recovery measurement technology designed to resolve batch control requirements for liquid custody transfer applications. According to Emerson, the vapor recovery measurement system can increase billing integrity and ensure accurate accounting for valuable light hydrocarbons. The DL8000, coupled with a Micro Motion Coriolis meter, introduces a closed vapor recovery system that measures values for the vapor recovery mass as well as the delivered mass, and computes a net value for the delivery of the product, so the terminal can charge customers for only the product received. The DL8000 also has the ability to calibrate, measure, and control up to six additives as they enter a product stream. The product is housed in an explosion-proof enclosure with optical signal isolation and short-circuit protection.
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IR temperature sensor
KEYENCE CORP. OF AMERICA, WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J. FT Series digital infrared sensors have a temperature-sensing range 0 to 1,350 ºC. The ability to measure IR from distances of up to 3,000 mm (roughly 10 feet) means the sensor head can be mounted away from harsh environments. The analog output (4 mA to 20 mA) can be scaled to a user-defined range. The product is available with an optional air purge enclosure that will eliminate dust buildup, increasing sensor stability and decreasing process downtime. The ergonomically designed amplifiers can be panel mounted or cabinet mounted on a DIN rail. A “display hold” function will maintain the maximum temperature reading between output signals.
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Dome pressure regulator
WITT-GASETECHNIK GMBH & CO KG, WITTEN, GERMANY. The company is offering its 737 series dome pressure regulator as a complete ready-to-install system. Dome pressure regulators, like the 737 series, compensate for fluctuating flow rates in gas supply pipelines to ensure a consistent outlet pressure. They are suitable for use with most technical gases, including argon, nitrogen, hydrogen, and oxygen used in industrial and technical applications, such as steelworks and process plants. The 737 series is rated burnout-safe even when exposed to oxygen at a pressure of 200 bar, according to the German Federal Institute for Material Research and Testing. The four models in the series provide a nominal gas flow rate of up to 650 m³/h (approximately 22,950 scf/h) and are designed to fit into a pipeline with limited space surrounding it.
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Linear motion drive
AMACOIL INC., ASTON, PA. The Amacoil/Uhing model RG linear drive mechanically controls travel direction and linear speed. The length of travel can be adjusted by manually setting end stops. Travel speed is also regulated by using a manual control on the unit. The drive is available in 17 sizes, which provide axial thrust from 7 to 800 lbs. Amacoil recommends them for companies in need of simplified linear motion systems for automated processes in such applications as packaging, textiles, wire and cable, and automotive manufacturing. According to Amacoil, backlash is eliminated by specially machined rolling ring bearings, which maintain constant point contact with the shaft.
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Static eliminator
EXAIR CORP., CINCINNATI. The Super Ion Air Wipe surrounds a moving part with a blanket of ionized air to eliminate static electricity. The system uses a small amount of compressed air to entrain a larger volume of room air. Two ionizing points fill the airstream with ions to eliminate static charges. The ionizing points are powered by a 5 kV power supply. The ionized air attaches to the surface of the material and is effective for many feet from point of application. Elimination of static removes dust and particulates from surfaces and avoids the risk of electric shock. The air wipe is available with a 2-in. (51 mm) diameter that has an air consumption rate of 30 scfm and a 4-in. (102 mm) size with an air consumption rate of 50 scfm. The company recommends the static eliminators for use with pipe, cable, hose, and other similarly shaped products. Prices start at $747.
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Solar simulator
NEWPORT CORP., STRATFORD, CONN. The Oriel Sol3A solar simulator is a large area, constant wave source of simulated sunlight. According to the company, the simulator uses a combination of a xenon lamp and a proprietary filter to meet performance parameters for spectral match, non-uniformity of irradiance, and temporal instability of irradiation without compromising its one-sun output power. Solar simulators are available in sizes from 2 x 2 to 8 x 8 inches. They are certified to relevant IEC, JIS, and ASTM standards. Newport recommends them for testing and measurement of solar cells.
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Pillow blocks
QUALITY BEARINGS & COMPONENTS, GARDEN CITY PARK, N.Y. The BBXBLK-HCP and BBXBLK-UCP series are solid base dual seal type pillow blocks with cast iron housings. They fit shafts from a half inch to 3 1/2 inches in diameter. Height from the bottom of the base to midpoint of the shaft ranges from 13/16 to 4 inches. “HCP” designates locking collar type pillow blocks, and “UCP” identifies set screw type blocks. They are standard duty models with one lubrication fitting. Requests for quotes may be made through the company’s Web site, www.qbcbearings.com.
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Analog output modules
ACROMAG INC., WIXOM, MICH. Two new analog output units in the company’s Etherstax series of Ethernet I/O products each provide 16 channels of process current or voltage output control signals with 16-bit D/A resolution. The units, models ES2171 and ES2172, accept Modbus TCP/IP, UDP/IP, or i2o peer-to-peer network inputs, and provide high-resolution analog outputs to drive displays, indicators, chart recorders, positioners, or actuators. The analog outputs can control variable speed drives, motors, or solenoid valves. Units can also provide analog retransmission to remote controls or SCADA systems. High-speed processing enables updates in less than 1 ms per channel. Units are designed to meet Class I Division 2 approvals and are also available in a lightweight enclosureless version with prices starting at $1,300. The ES2171 outputs dc current signals in a 0-20 mA or 4-20 mA range. ES2172 units produce ±5 V or ±10 V dc signals. Output ranges are independently configurable on each channel.
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Microstepping motor driver
LIN ENGINEERING, SANTA CLARA, CALIF. The R525 microstepping step motor driver can output up to 5 amps peak current and handle up to 75 volts dc. It is compatible with all NEMA 8, 11, and 17 motors, and with the majority of NEMA 23 motors and with many NEMA 34 motors. The driver contains built-in RS485 communication, so it can be connected to a computer and configured through Lin Engineering’s graphical user interface, LinDriver. Configurable settings include step resolution, run current, hold current, damping modes for smoother motion, and selection of sensing the step pulses on the rising edge or falling edge. The R525 is just over 3.3 in. long and 1.3 in. high.
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Pneumatic air cylinders
AUTOMATIONDIRECT, CUMMING., GA. The Nitra line of pneumatic products has expanded to include a series of stainless steel, round body, non-repairable cylinders. The cylinder bodies are made of type 304 stainless steel with double rolled-in construction and have high-strength aluminum alloy porting ends. Single and double acting models are available with nose, pivot, and double-end mounting options. Some models are available with magnetic pistons for position indication. Bore sizes range from 7/16 in. up to 2 in. Stroke lengths range from a half inch to 18 in. Potential applications include packaging lines, conveyors, material handling, and robotics. Optional mounting brackets, nuts, and rod clevises are available. Prices start at $9.50, and the products are backed by a three-year limited warranty.
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 Dual-flow valve
PARKER FLUID CONTROL DIVISION, NEW BRITAIN, CONN. The dual-flow solenoid valve is designed to switch from high flow to low flow efficiently and quickly on command at the fuel servicing pump, Designed as if it were two valves in one assembly, a dual-flow valve requires only a single dual-wound coil to release fuel. The valve accurately dispenses a predetermined amount of liquid by providing a high flow for bulk delivery, and then switches to a low-flow mode to dispense the final amount required. The dual-flow valve operates within a maximum ambient and fluid temperature of 104 ºF (40 ºC), and consumes power at a high of 15 watts and a low of 8 watts. Port sizes are available in ¾ in., 1 in., and 1½ in. with an operating pressure differential of 5-50 psi. The valve has a brass body, fluorocarbon seals, NBR diaphragm, copper shading ring, and stainless steel sleeve, plunger, and springs. The dual-flow valve can be ordered with a variety of optional features to best adapt to specific installation requirements.
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