Machine Building

How has the new IE4 classification changed the motor market?

The IE2 regulations effectively cleaned up the lower efficiency end of the market; if an application requires a motor to operate rarely, then its energy consumption is not so critical. Users just want the cheapest machine they can buy that will be reliable in that application; the IE2 regs are intended to make sure that new motors being supplied into these conditions meet a minimum standard of efficiency.

7th March 2014

Advanced grease lubrication enhances paper mill performance

With paper machinery often operating at speeds more than 2000m/min and steam temperatures exceeding 200degC (392degF), the equipment used in pulp and paper mills is continually placed under extreme pressure to perform. As a result, it is important for companies to select advanced lubricants, including greases, which can operate effectively in this environment.

7th March 2014

Compressed air safety on machines, and regulatory compliance

Ben Rickards of Norgren explains what machine builders need to know about the safety of compressed air systems on machinery, in the context of the relevant regulations, legislation and standards.

6th March 2014

UK OEMs deserve full support says Mitsubishi Electric

The UK OEM sector is keen to expand and improve its international competitiveness, and government officials are equally keen as this will help to rebalance the national economy away from an overreliance on financial services. Jon Sumner, OEM Solutions Manager for Mitsubishi Electric says that there are some vital issues to address, for success.

28th February 2014

Popularity of permanent magnet motors on the rise

The demands for improved energy savings combined with precision operation has increasingly led engineers to specify permanent magnet synchronous motors (PMSMs), which are more efficient and accurate than an induction motor and a fraction of the cost of a large servomotor. Rick Munz, IHP product manager at Regal, explores this exciting motor option.

21st February 2014

Glossary of terms: permanent magnet motors

This glossary of terms relating to permanent-magnet electric motor technology has been compiled by Bill Bertram, Managing Director of REGAL C&I Europe.

19th February 2014

Usability and ergonomics of human-machine interfaces

This article discusses the benefits offered by the latest generation of human-machine interfaces (HMIs) thanks to technological developments that have enhanced ergonomics and usability.

19th February 2014

Selecting bearings for industrial gearboxes

The requirement to improve the efficiency and performance of mechanical gearboxes has led to more powerful designs which, in turn, require bearings designed to deliver long service life. Understanding the role and design criteria for the different types of bearing within a gearbox is the key to ensuring the correct specification is used when constructing or repairing a gearbox, whatever the size. NSK is now using advanced materials and live predictive models to find the optimum product.

18th February 2014

Where will heat treatment be in five years' time?

The need to develop high-quality, cost-effective products is driving the global heat treating market to grow over 7 per cent, according to a new report on the Global Heat Treating Market 2012-2016, but where will heat treatment be in five years' time? Kevin Robinson, Business Development Manager at Invensys Eurotherm offers his predictions for an industry undergoing a range of challenges as well as opportunities.

14th February 2014

Benefits of Thin Client architectures in manufacturing

Rob Dinsmore, Product Manager for Availability at industrial IT provider SolutionsPT, looks at the benefits of using Thin Client computing within a manufacturing environment..

13th February 2014