February 2018

Waiting for the Boom

I've always been a big fan of thunderstorms. I especially enjoy that quiet moment of anticipation right after you see a flash of lightning. There's a tension in the air, a sense of excitement. You know what's coming, and you wait for it...I feel like we're in that moment, right now. We're waiting for the boom.

Understanding the Dynamic Influences of Gear Oils and Radial Shaft Seals

Sustainability is becoming one of the most important aspects within the power transmission business. Users demand low-maintenance drive systems with as little disruption as possible, and expect lifetimes of more than 10,000 hours. Approximately 40 percent of long-term gearbox leakages can be traced back to poor interaction between the radial shaft seal (RSS) and the lubricant. Thus, it becomes essential to analyze the tribological system as a whole, which includes the gear oil, seal grease (if required), elastomer material and design, and the shaft.

The Development of Worm Drives

A worm drive is a geared power transmission device in which a worm meshes with a worm gear to transmit power between two non-intersecting shafts that are oriented at a right angle. The worm drive has been an active and challenging topic of technological study since Leonardo da Vinci (1452-1519).

Efficiency of Design

Energy efficiency is for more than just motors. Here are some mechatronics companies making sure you get more bang for your buck when it comes to your power bill.

Flexibility in Fluid Power

Latest Sealing Technologies Offer Optimum Wear and Frictional Characteristics.

Emerging Motor Technologies

Copper's continuing role in energy-efficient motor development.

Metal-to-Plastic Conversion Parts Help Drive Heavy Industry

While metal-to-plastic parts conversion actually began way back in the Fabulous Fifties, think toys, household products, etc., it is only in more recent years that plastic conversion has gained a firm foothold in the more strength- and lifetime-demanding applications such as aerospace, under-the-hood automotive, motors, valves, bearings and, as they say, much more.

How to Select Motors for Hazardous Locations - Baldor Motor Basics Part 10

Failure to specify the proper motor for use in a hazardous location can have serious consequences - lost production, extensive property damage, and even loss of human life. Selection of the proper motor requires an understanding of Underwriters Laboratories' (UL) and National Electrical Code (NEC) class, group and division designations and the T code letters.

Industry News

The latest new hires and corporate announcements from around the industry.

A Manufacturing Mix-Tape

I noticed it during my first assignment in a job shop. Maybe it was the gentle whir of a motor or the scratching sound of a grinding gear, but the factory floor boasted plenty of unique noises and sound effects.

Product News

The latest mechanical power transmission products from Nord Drivesystems, Gearing Solutions, Ogura Industrial, Stafford Manufacturing, Rexnord, Portescap, Steinmeyer, Intellidrives, J.W. Winco and Zero-Max.

Calendar

The complete technical calendar of upcoming events from the February 2018 issue of Power Transmission Engineering.