Product news
Latest and greatest offerings in the engineering marketplace
By Design News Staff -- Design News, November 3, 1997
Silicone products
Silicone compounds are used in the manufacture of molded, extruded, and assembled medical products. Silicone rubbers are compatible with human tissues and body fluids. These tasteless and odorless compounds do not support bacterial growth and are suitable for use as implant material. Manufacturing processes include extruding, liquid silicone injection molding, and assembly. Available services include engineering and design assistance, short- to long-run production, assembly, and testing.
Vesta Inc., 5400 West Franklin Dr., Franklin, WI 53132, FAX (414) 423-0562.
Ball screws
High-capacity miniature ball screws offer a choice of 12 ball-nut options. Features include automated screw production, a 0.375-inch diameter, a 0.125-inch lead, and 90% efficiency in converting rotary to linear motion. Single-nut dynamic load capacity is 170 lbs, static capacity is 1,600 lbs, and both capacities double for two-nut assemblies. Nut options include flanged, V-thread and trunnion, adjustable preloaded anti-backlash, and combinations of these. End machining, stops, wipers, custom nut housings, and lubrication are available.
Thomson Saginaw, 628 North Hamilton St., Saginaw, MI 48602, FAX (517) 776-3632.
Chain
ULTRA WPTM chain features a coating that resists corrosion in fresh or salt-water environments. The patented mechanical-plating process that produces this coating creates a metallurgical bond so the plating will not flake or peel off. All surfaces are coated prior to assembly, providing protection against corrosion. This coating provides freedom from hydrogen embrittlement.
U.S. Tsubaki Inc., 301 East Marquardt Dr., Wheeling, IL 60090.
System
Flex Design system provides a means of choosing the interconnect design most suitable for each application. Flex Stack interconnects allow specifying headers and board stackers in 0.005 inch increments on five pitches from standard 0.100- inch pitch through micro 0.80-mm pitch. Flex Shrouds can be attached to a pin-count header or board stacker on four pitches: 2, 0.050, 1, and 0.8 mm. Flex Mold plastic-molding capability allows customers to customize insulators.
Samtec Inc., Box 1147, New Albany, IN 47151, FAX (812) 948-5047.
Circuit breaker
SmartGuard equipment-leakage circuit breaker (ELCB) is an equipment ground-fault protection device that senses and guards against faults to ground using an integrated circuit. This technology detects faults and when a fault occurs, the breaker trips and an LED illuminates. SmartGuard is suitable for applications requiring protection for overload, short circuit, and ground-fault protection, and is suitable for use with equipment including telecommunications, resistance and impedence heating systems, industrial automations, and medical equipment.
Carlingswitch, 60 Johnson Ave., Plainville, CT., 06062 FAX (860) 793-9231.
Couplings
Single-beam couplings are a low-torque option for preventing misalignment. These couplings have bore sizes ranging from 3/32 to 1 inch and have maximum working torques from 1.5 to 100 inch-lbs. Other couplings offered include three- and six-beam, oldham, bellows, spider, universal lateral, wafer spring, and flex-thane.
W.M. Berg Inc., 499 Ocean Ave., East Rockaway, NY 11518, FAX (800) 455-2374.
Data-acquisition boards
The PC-based SmartDAQTM family of analog PCI-bus data-acquisition boards are equipped with an on-board digital signal processor (DSP). These PCI boards offer 12- and 16-bit analog-to-digital conversion at 330 Ksamples per second and 200 Ksamples per second, respectively, with 16- and 64-board channel counts. Each PCI board can operate independently of the PC. The KPCI-5000 Series consists of eight board types, each of which can be programmed for a high or low gain. SmartDAQ family boards can perform memory, data management, data analysis, and reporting tasks.
Keithley Instruments Inc., 28775 Aurora Rd., Cleveland, OH 44139, FAX (216) 248-6168.
Servoamplifiers
The FLX® digital servoamplifiers incorporate the MACROTM high-speed fiber-optic communications link for time communication of velocity and position-loop parameters. Featuring digital processors and field-programmable gate arrays, the FLX® provides central control of up to 256 axes. FLXTM servoamplifiers operate a broad range of motors including brush, brushless, linear, rotary, disc, and ac induction.
Performance Controls Inc., 433 Caredean Dr., Horsham, PA 19044, FAX (215) 674-8714.
Miniature tables
NDN high-precision miniature frictionless tables, NDN 05 and NDN 2, feature an integrated cage-centering mechanism, a rugged two-piece construction, and corrosion-resistant materials. The NDN 05 Series is 7-mm wide and 4-mm high. Four models are available in overall lengths from 10 to 25 mm, with strokes of 5 to 20 mm, making them suitable for applications with space constraints. The larger-size NDN 2 Series is 15-mm wide, with a height of 8 mm and features six models available in overall lengths ranging from 30 to 80 mm, with strokes of 20 to 70 mm. Both series are suitable for microelectronics, semiconductor, and PC-board applications.
Schneeberger Inc., 11 DeAngelo Dr., Bedford, MA 01730, FAX (617) 271-0140.
Springs
Three-dimensional ellipsoid TunedTM springs can act as both a tension and a compression spring. These springs can stand alone or be used with other springs or included in other articles such as clips, clamps, and cushioning devices. This spring may be "tuned" to performance requirements through material specification and design considerations including thickness, shape of the outer periphery, shape and size of an aperture located within the ellipsoid, and relationship between the axes of the external shape and the internal aperture. Four major classes of a tuned ellipsoid spring include unrestrained, restrained at one arc/tangent, unstressed, or stressed.
Pegit Inc., Box 289, Dublin, NH 03444, FAX (603) 639-8010.
Transformer
SPT-032 low-profile surface-mounted transformer has B.S.I. approval to the BS EN60950 standard. Suitable for use in V.34 modems, this transformer can be adapted to suit U.S. and European applications. The leadframe is arranged so that the part can be placed in a square hole cut into the pc board. The maximum dimensions of the SPT-032 are 0.660 × 0.660 × 0.172 inches, the maximum toe-to-toe dimension across the leadframe is 0.800 inches, and primary to secondary creepage distance is 2.5 mm. With its 1:1 turns ratio, the SPT-032 is classified as a 600{OMEGA} telecom transformer.
Prem Magnetics Inc., 3521 North Chapel Hill Rd., McHenry, IL 60050, FAX (815) 385-8578.
Transformers
SPW-100 Series 6.0 VA PC power transformers are 100% tested on automated test panels for induced voltage, exciting current, open-circuit voltage, polarity, and dielectric strength. The series features a 3-flange bobbin construction which requires no electrostatic shield. Anchor, insulating, and crossover tapes are used with every unit. Standard pc-board power transformers are immersed in 100% solid epoxy resin to withstand aqueous and solvent cleaning systems.
Prem Magnetics Inc., 3521 North Chapel Hill Rd., McHenry, IL 60050, FAX (815) 385-2700.
Processing board
PCI/C42 processing board combines the digital signal process of two 60-MHz TMS320C44 DSP chips with high-speed I/O on one full-length PCI card. Suitable for applications such as noise vibration and analysis, radar, sonar, and instrumentation, the PCI/C42 can be configured as either a front-end pre-processor or as a complete parallel processing system. The PCI/C42 provides 1 or 4 Mbytes of zero-wait-state STAM per processor and 64 Mbytes of high-speed SDRAM. The board features shared synchronous clocking across both sides of the on-board PCI bus.
Loughborough Sound Images Inc., 70 Westview St., Lexington, MA 02173, FAX (781) 860-0083.
Pressure switch
The PN7 pressure switch is a combination of two independent switches in the same housing and is suitable for applications requiring two independent outputs with adjustable hysteresis such as soft and hard alarms and pump control. Each output has a set and reset point which can be independently adjusted over the operating range of the switch. Dual-output LEDs display the status of each output, and the switch is available in pressure ranges of 30 to 6,000 psi.
efector inc., 805 Springdale Dr., Exton, PA 19341, FAX (610) 524-2010.
Transmitter
8045 magnetic flow-meter transmitter features solid-state electronics and no moving parts for use in fluids with high particulate content or in waste water with deposits. The 8045 measures flow with two stainless-steel nodes, and microprocessor-based electronics enable set-up through an interactive menu. The three-wire digital flow transmitter provides a 4-20 mA standard signal for flow and a freely programmable pulse output for volume. All wetted areas are PVDF and 316 stainless steel and can be used with liquids up to 176F.
Burkert Contromatic, 2602 McGaw Ave., Irvine, CA 92614, FAX (714) 223-3198.
Adapter
QSP-100 is a 4-channel RS-232 asynchronous serial adapter PCMCIA card. This adapter inserts into one Type II PCMCIA socket and provides 4 asynchronous serial ports implemented with 16550 UARTS. The QSP-100 is suitable for multitasking environments and for applications requiring high data rates. Included are an enhanced serial driver and INF file for use with Windows 95 and a cable adapter which provides access through 4 standard D-9 connectors.
OMEGA Engineering Inc., Box 4047, Stamford, CT 06907, FAX (203) 359-7700.
Concrete base
Polymer concrete bases damp vibration, noise, and shock loads from tools, auxiliary equipment, movements, and facility-induced quivers. These bases feature cast-in bearing surfaces, slide-ways, threaded inserts, and eliminate machining and finishing operations.
ITW Philadelphia Resins, 10132 Spiritknoll Lane, Cincinnati, OH 45252.
Heating elements
E-Mitter® ceramic, infrared-heating elements are for plastics thermoforming, curing, plastics welding, and laminating applications. Manufactured in five basic modular sizes, these elements come standard in a color-changing coral or white, or in optional color-changing yellow or black. This feature provides a means to visually identify a failed unit in a heater-panel array.
Tempco Electric Heater Corp., 607 N. Central Ave., Wood Dale, IL 60191.
Software
SEER-DFM software identifies part assembly and manufacturing parameters to provide the required process time and materials, and then generates the unit costs for any part or assembly operation. Features include the ability to estimate the direct, set-up, inspection, and rework time and tooling costs based on a description of the manufacturing process. SEER-DFM is comprised of 10 manufacturing modules including composites, finishing, and additional operations. Flexible export can be used to create custom reports using any combination of inputs and outputs that can be exported as a text file or copied to the Windows clipboard.
G A SEER Technologies, 100 North Sepulveda Blvd., Suite 1801, El Segundo, CA.
Pressure transmitter
DeltamateTM differential pressure transmitter is available in four differential pressure ranges and offers a choice of either a 4 to 20 mA or 1 to 6V output. With an accuracy of 1%, this sensor features a rugged, stainless-steel case that provides environmental protection. The media is contained in a brazed assembly of 300 series stainless steel. Available in two designs including either a coaxial port or a dual-port design with standard tube or NPT fittings, the Deltamate is suitable for simple filter monitoring to compressor and process control.
Data Instruments, 100 Discovery Way, Acton, MA 01720, FAX (508) 263-0630.
Flexible cables
XTRA•GUARD® continuous-use flexible cables are for applications where equipment uses cable track and is in continuous motion. These cables are flexlife-tested to MIL-C-13777G and are oil- and chemical-resistant with a jacket that meets VDE 0472, Section 803 oil test. Other applications include robotics, high-speed and automotive assembly lines, machine tool systems, automation equipment, and material handling systems, specifically where cable runs are used to protect people and equipment against high-speed continuous-motion applications.
Alpha Wire Co., 711 Lidgerwood Ave., Elizabeth, NJ 07207, FAX (908) 925-6923.
Pilot lights
13-mm pilot lights can be specified with custom-length wire leads. Additionally, screw-terminal pilot lights feature terminals arranged for straight-through wiring so that bare wire may be used and "bussed" to multiple light installations. Screw terminals accept #22 or two #12 wires per terminal. The devices also accept ring and fork connectors or can be supplied with male spade connectors. Pilot lights are available for incandescents, neon lights, or super-bright LEDs ranging from 6 to 600V.
Control Concepts, Box 496, Beaver, PA 15009, FAX (412) 775-5283.
Adhesives
PRISM® 4203 and 4205 rubber-toughened cyanoacrylate adhesives can withstand continuous temperature exposure to 250F. PRISM 4203 is a low-viscosity adhesive, while PRISM 4205 is a non-running gel adhesive. Both products achieve fixture strength within 20 to 30 seconds on most substrates including steel, aluminum, nitrile, rubber, ABS, phenolics, and SBR. These adhesives cure to a clear, durable bond line and are suitable for bonding speaker and appliance assemblies, automotive components, electrical equipment, oil filters, disk drives, and other applications where increased thermal resistance is important.
Loctite Corp., 1001 Trout Brook Crossing, Rocky Hill, CT 06067, FAX (860) 571-5465.
Alarm scanner
The CAS200 is a 1/8-DIN size compact alarm scanner which features 16 channels of alarm monitoring and data-acquisition capability for industrial and laboratory applications. It supports ModbusTM RTU protocol. And CAS200 accepts multiple and mixed inputs from any combination of thermocouples, linear current or voltage inputs, or other remote devices. Other features include 16 analog and 8 digital inputs, 32 user-selectable alarm outputs, and 2 system digital outputs for global alarm and CPU watchdog timer.
Watlow Electric Mfg. Co., Marketing Communications Dept., 12001 Lackland Rd., St. Louis, MO 63146, FAX (314) 878-6814.
Transfer balls
Hollow, stainless-steel air-cargo transfer balls are less than half the weight of solid balls. Proprietary heat treating and 100% weld penetration give the balls extremely high crush strength and fracture toughness. Weighing 25 gm, these transfer balls are for use in upgraded cargo bay balls transfer units for aircraft fuel savings and a short payback period. Standard one-inch hollow balls are available in ABMA tolerance grades from 100 to 1,000.
Thomson Industries Inc., 2 Channel Dr., Port Washington, NY 11050, FAX (516) 883-9039.
Enclosure system
COMBICARD® II modular enclosure system provides IP66/NEMA 4 protection. These enclosures feature a convenient latching hinge system that can be assembled without tools. Three methods for configuring locking hinges are offered to meet different security needs. Users can link the modular front, center, and rear sections together in various combinations to produce a variety of custom enclosure designs. COMBICARD II modular sections are molded in gray ABS plastic in 3 widths.
Rose & Bopla Enclosures, 7330 Executive Way, Frederick, MD 21704, FAX (301) 696-9494.
Web cutter
Automated 5-track web-cutting workstation for measuring, cutting, and ejecting strips of nylon webbing is a fully automatic PLC controlled station that simultaneously produces up to 5 webs. The workstation can detect a splice in any one of the five webs, cut out the splice, and send the rejected web to a reject chute. Each active web roll is mounted on its own roller system to allow replacement without disturbing other active rolls. If the web does not contain a splice, it is ejected at the exit-end of the machine. If a splice is detected, however, the web is ejected into a reject chute without scrapping belts in any of the other tracks.
Spectra Technologies Inc., 1795 109th St., Grand Prairie, TX 75050.
Pilot pins
PEM® Type TPSTM self-clinching pilot pins are for alignment, positioning, and pivot applications. When installed, these 300 Series stainless-steel studs maintain a flush appearance on the reverse side. Features include a chamfered end of the pin for the easy location of attached parts for alignment and mounting. Type TPS pilot pins are available in standard diameter sizes of 0.125, 0.187, and 0.250 inches and in millimeter sizes of 4, 5, and 6 mm. Lengths range from 0.375 to 1 inch and 8 to 20 mm.
Penn Engineering & Mfg. Corp., 5190 Old Easton Rd., Danboro, PA 18916, FAX (215) 766-0143.
Gearhead
UltraTRUE planetary gearhead features a standard 4-arc-minute backlash and crowned helical carburized steel gears that are hardened to HRC 60 minimum and flank-finished after heat treating. With a peak torque of 29,201 inch-lbs and a peak radial load of 7,800 lbs, the UltraTRUE gearheads are available in 60, 75, 100, 140, and 180-mm2 frame sizes and in ratios from 4:1 to 100:1. They have a stainless-steel output housing and shaft, supported by tapered roller bearings, and provide lifetime lubrication and a self-aligning RediMount system that speeds mounting to virtually any motor.
Thomson Micron, LLC, 50 Alexander Ct., Ronkonkoma, NY 11779, FAX (516) 467-9814.
Laser marking system
The InstaMark Insignia laser-marking system can mark 1 mm-high characters at greater than 80 linear inches/second. The InstaMark Insignia laser-making system provides marking accuracy of 0.001 inches throughout a 12-inch2 marking field. Features include a laser cavity design which eliminates maintenance and reduces the volume of the laser head from 40 to 27 inches. The laser-marking head requires no optics cleaning, mirror replacement, Q-switch cleaning, or optics or Q-switch realignment. The Insignia can mark 1 mm-high characters at greater than 80 linear inches per second.
Control Laser Corp., 7503 Chancellor Dr., Orlando, FL 32809, FAX (407) 851-2720.
Valve
Thermoplastic solenoid valve incorporates a Teflon® PTFE bellows and a barrier-type dynamic seal for quick opening and closing operation in pressure, vacuum, or drain applications. Less than 5 inches high, this model is suitable for limited-space applications and can be used with virtually all solutions including acids, caustics, solvents, chlorine solutions, and ultra-pure liquids. Features include an inlet pressure rating of 140 psi, a back pressure rating of 90 psi, and a flow coefficient of 0.5.
Plast-O-Matic Valves Inc., 1384 Pompton Ave., Cedar Grove, NJ 07009, FAX (973) 256-4745.
Cartridge valves
Threaded cartridge valves for maximum operating pressures of 5,000 psi feature solenoid-operated directional control valves, as well as various pressure controls including direct-acting and pilot-operated relief valves, pilot-operated pressure-reducing/relieving valves, and sequence valves. The series includes cavity sizes of 8, 9, 10, 12, 16, and 20. Protective coatings withstand 200-hour salt-spray testing for maximum corrosion resistance. Manufactured in ISO 9001-certified facilities, the valves operate at pressures to 5,000 psi/g, with flows ranging to 100 gm/min.
Parker Hannifin Corp., Sales Lead Management Service, M.S. 2212, 17325 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH 44112.
Conveyor lane divider
Conveyor lane divider enables equipment manufacturers, contract packagers, and others to reconfigure a dedicated packaging conveyor system for increased productivity by dividing the conveyor bed to meet related or unrelated package sizes with a fast, simple adjustment. Rugged aluminum rails fitted with wear-resistant Nolu D guides attach onto a conveyor system to create two or more distinct lanes, dividing the conveyor surface while guiding the product.
Nolu Plastics Inc., 900 C Tryens Dr., Aston, PA 19014.
Servo drive/controller
The APEX6151 single-axis servo drive/controller uses digital signal processor technology (DSP) for a position loop update time of 205µseconds and a separate 32-bit microprocessor for high-level motion programs. Sixteen programmable inputs and eight programmable outputs are also standard and all are digital, optically isolated, and operate at 5 to 24V dc. Other features include clockwise and counter-clockwise end-of-travel limits, home limit, dedicated registration output, industry-standard RS-232C serial communication port, and 40 Kbytes of battery-backed RAM for storage of motion control programs.
Parker Hannifin Corp., Compumotor Div., 5500 Business Park Dr., Rohnert Park, CA 94928, FAX (800) 328-8087.
Capacitors
Metallized polymer capacitors include the Mallory® CS Series for use in high-frequency switching power supplies and dc-to-dc converters, and the ST Series for surface-mount dc-filtering applications, particularly in telecom products. The ST Series is available in both 50 and 100V dc, with capacities ranging from 0.1 to 2.2µF. Standard capacitance tolerance is ±10% and the operating temperature range is -55 to 125C, with no voltage derating required. The CS Series of capacitor networks feature low ESR and ESL and deliver high ripple-current ratings. These capacitors are available in 50, 100, and 400V dc, with capacitances ranging from 0.33 to 20.0µF. Standard capacitance tolerance is ±10% and the operating temperature range is -55 to 125C, with a dissipation factor of ±1% at 25C at 1 kHz.
North American Capacitor Co., 7545 Rockville Rd., Indianapolis, IN 46214, FAX (317) 273-2400.
Converters
Series of 14-bit reference-powered 0.5-inch high 4.5 VA digital-to-synchro converters require 5V dc input power and have internal transformer isolated outputs, even at 60 Hz. The 2.6 × 3.1 × 5.1-inches high maximum modules accept a 14-bit natural binary angle and convert it into a 3-wire synchro signal. The output is short-circuit-proof and current-limited with transient protection and a thermal cutoff. The 400 Hz units have a 4.5 VA load capability and the 60 Hz units have a capability of 2 VA. All converters have an optimum thermal design using a thermally conductive encapsulant and metal top plate.
Computer Conversions Corp., 6 Dunton Ct., East Northport, NY 11731, FAX (516) 261-3308.
Motor system
The Rollon A100C linear slide unit incorporates a slider with rollers running inside a hardened carbon-steel channel-shaped rail. The rollers are fabricated from a precision double-row angular contact ball bearing with an internal eccentric pivot, and the extruded aluminum body provides a balance between the stiffness of the slide and frame. A polyurethane-driven toothed belt with internal steel cables provides low extension, high stiffness, and a resistance to wear. Features include a maximum traveling speed of 351 inches per second, position precision of 0.0039 inches, and strokes available from 166 to 3,316 mm with intermediate sizes every 50 mm.
Pacific Bearing Co., Box 6980, Rockford, IL 61125, FAX (815) 962-3818.
Thermal analysis software
FLOTHERM thermal analysis software employs principles of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to predict air flow and temperature distribution accurately within the enclosed spaces of electronic systems. FLOTHERM offers a means to simulate heat transfer including conduction, natural convection, and internal radiation. Applications include package-level analysis of individual devices, board-level, system-level, and environmental-level analysis to predict air movement and temperature distribution in the environment around electronic equipment.
Flomerics Inc., 2 Mount Royal Ave., Marlborough, MA 0172, FAX (508) 624-0559.
Pulse stretching module
Pulse stretching module accepts an input pulse for a duration as short as 0.1m/sec and extends the duration of that pulse to as long as 1,500 m/sec. This module makes it possible to use standard controller input cards which can handle signals of no less than 3 ms in duration. The length of the output pulse in the field can be selected by the adjustment of DIP switches. If input pulses to the device are differing in duration, the output pulse remains the same duration, provided the input is faster than the selected output. This should extend to match the input pulse and should be longer than the selected output duration.
Phoenix Contact Inc., Box 4100, Harrisburg, PA 17111, FAX (717) 944-1625.
File-management software
WorkShare file-management software is a 32-bit Windows-based product that combines advanced file searching, indexing, relation management, and routing capabilities. Users can access and control files where they exist on a corporate network. WorkShare allows customized property attributes to be assigned to all new and existing data and document files. Indexing capabilities allow users to find documents by specifying the attributes, such as customer name and document numbers.
Intergraph, US Headquarters, CR1105, Huntsville, AL 35894.
Compressors and pumps
Linear series air compressors and vacuum pumps are available in 21 models, including larger units with open flow rates of 5.8 to 10.26 CFM and smaller units with open flow rates of 0.33 to 1.24 CFM. In addition, maximum intermittent pressure ranges from 2.2 to 8.3 psi, with maximum intermittent vacuum ranging from 5.8 to 15.7 Hg. All models are high-efficiency with low watt consumption and each features quiet operation, low vibration and pulsation, oil-less design, no bearings, and automatic pressure inflation.
Thomas Industries, Box 29, Sheboygan, WI 53082, FAX (414) 451-4276.
Workstation
The ST-C231 compact industrial workstation is sealed in a cast-aluminum enclosure that houses the single board computer, flat-panel display, and infrared touch control system. Rated NEMA 4/12, this workstation features cooling fans cast into the enclosure on the inside and outside for fast heat dissipation, extending the life of the LCD backlight tubes and CPU. The computer utilizes a Pentium-based SBC with 256 or 512K L2 pipeline burst-mode cache, up to 64 Mbytes or fast EDO DRAM, and a solid-state disk option.
Lucas Control Systems Products, Deeco Systems, 31047 Genster Rd., Hayward, CA 94544, FAX (510) 489-3500.
Assembly cell
The Flip Chip Bonder motion platform provides high-accuracy placement motion over a 10.5 × 16-inch area. The FCB-5300-VIP universal gantry-type motion platform allows for conveyorized, reel-to-reel, or magazine-to-magazine type material feeding. The programmable force control system provides from 30 to 5,000 gm of holding force to accommodate flip-chip bonding with a variety of materials, soldering, thermal compression bonding, and Anisotropic Conductive Film bonding (ACF). A combination of high accuracy motion, multi field-of-view vision, illumination and proprietary software achieve ±5 micron die-placement accuracy, with 1 micron die or substrate measuring accuracy.
Anorad Corp., 110 Oser Ave., Hauppauge, NY 11788, FAX (516) 435-1612.
Calibration maintenance software
Fieldlink® software maintains a calibration database in PC-compatible computers. The Heise® hand-held calibrator can be used in conjunction with this software to generate certification sheets. Calibration data logged into the PTE-1 callibrator can be uploaded to a PC for generation of calcerts and creation and maintenance of a calibration database. The Fieldlink calibration maintenance software operates with Windows 95, 3.1X, and NT.
Dresser Industries., Instrument Div., USA and International Headquarters, 250 East Main St., Stratford, CT 06497.
Rapid prototyping system
The FDM2000 rapid prototyping system features QuickSlice 4.1, a proprietary operating software, which enables users to control build parameters. This allows the FDM2000 to achieve enhanced part-feature definition and surface finish. Using faster throughput, the system can build models up to 254 × 254 × 254 mm (10 × 10 × 10 inches), within ± 0.127 mm (0.005 inch) accuracy. A variety of materials can be used, including ABS, medical-grade ABS, and investment casting wax.
Stratasys Inc., 14950 Martin Dr., Eden Prairie, MN 55344, FAX (612) 937-0070.
Valves
Two- and three-way, direct-acting solenoid valves are bi-directional valves in which the flows in either direction vary by no more than 2%. The valves use as little as 2W of power and work on 12 or 24V dc or 110V ac. The proprietary design is leak-free and operates from 1 to 100 psi. Various orifice and port sizes are available for different flow capacities. The minimal variation in flow makes the valves suitable for use as a balancing valve for oxygen concentrators and similar applications.
Teknocraft Inc., 425 W. Drive, Melbourne, Fl 32904, FAX (407) 768-8732.
Eyelet-setting machine
Eyelet-setting machine features pneumatic action for consistently tight joining or clinching across a component's full thickness or tolerance range. Because the machine's insertion stroke varies automatically, it can also assemble parts using several different eyelet lengths without requiring any adjustment. A pneumatic action allows this machine to stall when reaching a certain force limit, enabling it to compensate for tolerance build-ups in joined components and assure tight, uniform assembly.
Spirol Int'l Corp., 30 Rock Ave., Danielson, CT 06239, FAX (860) 774-0487.
Software interface
An interface between Myriad viewing software and Matrix product data management solution combines viewing and reading capabilities with documents and drawings. Users can view a current document version side-by-side previous redlined versions. Features include the ability to perform information queries from either system, reduce network traffic, and the controlled management of redline files.
Informative Graphics, 706 East Bell Rd., Suite 207, Phoenix, AZ 85022, FAX (602) 971-1714.
Control software
OpenCNC® software-based CNC machine tool control application incorporates both CNC and PLC technology into a single software application. It minimizes required hardware and works with commercially available PC technology. This software can be used in the production of machine tools including 2- through 5-axis machining centers; 2- and 4-axis single and multi spindle lathes; dual station grinders with integrated part handlers; and 3-axis gear hob. The user may program the PLC logic with any of the five standard languages as specified by IEC-1131-3.
Mfg. Data Systems Inc., 220 East Huron St., Ann Arbor, MI 48104, FAX (313) 769-9000.
Linear actuator
YM 2080B Series linear actuator is integrated with Type SSR LM Guide for quiet operation and is capable of reaching linear speeds of up to 5m/sec and acceleration up to 5Gs. This actuator provides standardized planetary gearboxes in 3:1, 5:1, and 10:1 ratios for optimum-load inertia matching. Utility hardware allows for easy construction of multi-axis systems, as well as facilitating a variety of drive input shaft configurations. Type YM is available in standard strokes from 310 to 4,580 mm.
THK America Inc., 200 East Commerce Dr., Schaumburg, IL 60173.
Clutches and brakes
Air clutches and brakes are part of the ELECTRO-PT product group. Suitable for new and retrofit industrial applications, these air clutches, clutch couplings, brakes, and clutch/brake models feature torque ranges from 600 to 900 inch-lbs. The air clutch group includes high speed, continuous slip, high torque, and super-torque models. Air brakes include small air-set, air-set, and spring-set/air-release models, and the air clutch/brake group features start/stop sprocket and start/stop hub models. All models can be supplied with an O-ring seal cover for washdown and dustproof applications.
Electroid Co., 45 Fadem Rd., Springfield, NJ 07081, FAX (201) 467-5656.
Rivet
The POP® Easy Entry® rivet inserts through multiple pieces of sheet metal when holes are not perfectly aligned. Featuring a "cone head" mandrel point, the rivet acts as an awl, adjusting the misaligned holes as the rivet is inserted. The rivet is suitable for holding various materials including thin-gauge metals such as aluminum and steel. Applications include appliances, commercial lighting, copier equipment, automotive component assembly, and recreation vehicles.
Emhart Industrial, 510 River Rd., Shelton, CT 06484, FAX (203) 925-3109.
Manifold raceway
The R310/R410 manifold raceway incorporates solenoid valves, a closed-wiring system, LED display, and NEMA-4 integrity into a factory-tested, fully operational assembly. Installation involves plumbing the air system and plugging in a D-sub connector. All valves plug in for quick and easy changes and block-off plates permit suspension of any station and/or future valve additions. The anodized, one-piece extruded-aluminum manifold can be ordered with 4 to 16 stations, 12 or 24V dc, either inch or metric ports, and 2-way, 3-way, and 4-way valves, which can be mixed to meet specific needs.
Humphrey Products Co., Box 2008, Kalamazoo, MI 49003.
DIP switches
TD Series surface-mount half-pitch DIP switches are sealed for surface-mount processing and measure 0.098 inches high × 0.244 inches wide. The 8-position model is 0.450 inches long. Featuring a 0.050-inch terminal spacing in gull-wing terminations, these switches are process-compatible and withstand IR and vapor-phase reflow soldering and immersion cleaning. Other features include a mechanical and electrical life of 1,000 cycles, a contact rating of 0.4 VA maximum at 20V dc, and an operating temperature of -20 to 85C. Switches are suitable for programming or set-and-forget applications including computers or peripherals, communication products, and industrial/process controllers.
C&K Components Inc., 57 Stanley Ave., Watertown, MA 02172, FAX (617) 926-6846.
Resistor network
Series 753 leadless in-line surface-mount resistor network features a termination pitch of 0.025 inches. Measuring 0.080 inches across the width, a 24-pad device with 22 bussed resistors provides up to 800 resistors per square inch. The 753 resistor network is suitable for applications requiring expensive multilayer PC-boards. The Series 753 network is suitable for operating at frequencies past 1 GHz.
CTS Resistor Networks, 406 Parr Rd., Berne, IN 46711, FAX (219) 589-3243.
Position transducers
Angular position transducers are sensor systems for absolute or incremental measurement of rotational angles. The PWX-PC series programmable angular position transducer allows the user to program and optimize the required output code for a specific application. PC-assisted programming and optimization of the 16-bit code takes place using Windows-compatible software. This universal angle measuring system shortens machine commissioning times, and reduces model variety and stock requirements.
Euchner-USA, 300 Roundhill Dr., Unit 4, Rockaway, NJ 07866, FAX (888) 667-7828.
Swivel eyebolt
The Swivel EyeboltTM lifting product swivels 360 degrees with a lift ring that pivots 180 degrees. This allows for the flipping and turning of the objects being lifted without the swivel eyebolt bending. The unit has a patented tamper-resistant feature, making it suitable for permanent or semi-permanent mounting. Load capacities up to 4,000 lbs are available in inch-style models, while metric-threaded versions have capacities up to 2,000 kg. The entire assembly is heat-treated alloy steel, with a 5:1 strength factor. The device is suitable for permanent installations in molds, dies, and fixtures that require repeated movement.
Jergens Inc., 19520 Nottingham Rd., Cleveland, OH 44110, FAX (216) 481-6193.
Cord grips
Hummel liquid-tight strain-relief fittings feature an insert with flat opening to seal underground feeder or non-metallic cables. Made of corrosion-resistant nylon with Buna-N seals, they are suitable for direct burial installations. The grips are available with [1/2]- and [3/4]-inch NPT threads, and fit AWG 14/2 through 10/2 Romex cables.
Sealcon, 14853 E. Hinsdale Ave., Unit D, Englewood, CO 80112, FAX (303) 680-5344.
Pressure sensors
HIT series solid-state piezoresistive pressure sensors are available in a dual in-line package and are for use where excellent linearity, short- and long-term stability, high-volume, and low-cost are required for PC- board mountable applications. The units range in absolute, gauge, and differential pressures from 0-10 psi to 0-100 psi. Other features include ±0.1% non-linearity of full-scale output (FSO), and an extended calibrated temperature range from -20 to 85C. The units are for applications such as medical instrumentation, calibration equipment, process control, and factory automation.
EC&G IC Sensors Inc., 1701 McCarthy Blvd., Milpitas, CA 95035, FAX (408) 432-7322.
Polyurethane instrument tubing
Superthane® Colors and Hard Durometer tubing are made of naturally flexible polyurethane. They do not contain any leachable plasticizers which can cause tube hardening or flow contamination. An ether base provides resistance to moisture, humidity, and fungus. Temperature use ranges from -90F to 178F for Colors, and -95F to 225F for Hard Durometer. The tubes are suited for lubrication lines, fluid circuitry, and general fluid lines.
NewAge Industries Inc., Plastics Technology Group, Box K, Willow Grove, PA 19090, FAX (215) 657-6594.
Eight-port adapter
The COMM+8 is an eight-port serial I/O adapter for PCs and compatibles. The eight RS-232 DOS-, Windows 3.1X/95/NT-, QNX-, Linux-, and OS/2-compatible units can be set to a separate IRQ, or multiple ports can share a single IRQ using the card's onboard interrupt status port. The status port flags the port generating the interrupt for efficient servicing while eliminating the need to poll each port separately. Applications include communications servers and other peripheral control.
Sealevel Systems Inc., Box 830, Liberty, SC 29657, FAX (864) 843-3067.
Locking device
The KE series Power-Lock® shaft/hub locking device eliminates specially machined seats and guides while providing power to secure driven components to a shaft without costly machining and centering operations. The unit features a single-taper design with a shallow taper angle that maintains concentricity when the locking bolts are tightened. The slit construction of the inner and outer locking rings enables each size of the self-centering series to fit onto a wider range of shaft sizes.
US Tsubaki Inc., 301 E. Marquardt Dr., Wheeling, IL 60090.
Swinghandle
The Trim-Line Swinghandle measures 133 mm in length and 36 mm in width. with an overall height variance of 12 to 9 mm. The zinc-alloy handle can be fitted with a variety of internationally standardized actuator-drives and lock-cylinders. It is equipped to meet IP 65 (NEMA 4/12) safety standards, and is suitable for equipment construction and small housings such as those found in advanced electrical technology.
DFS International Inc., 7151 Lake Ellenor Dr., Orlando, FL 32809, FAX (407) 858-9601.
Photoelectronic control
The BS Series photoelectronic control recognizes targets and suppresses backgrounds independent of color and material surface properties. Applications include conveyor-belt alignment, transfer-line process control, detection against light color or other reflective backgrounds, and water detection. This control is available in miniature and subminiature versions. The miniature product has a rugged metal housing and selectable light-operate (LO) and dark-operate (DO) modes. Both feature an operating temperature range of -25 to 65C.
Honeywell, Micro Switch Div., 11 West Spring St., Freeport, IL 61032, FAX (815) 235-6545.
Pull caps
DMPC Series pull caps feature an ergonomic finger pull tab for installation and removal. The curved cap-end design provides more surface contact area requires less gripping force. The DMPC Series is suitable for masking during industrial finishing processes where caps are installed and removed on a continuous basis. Available in standard and high-temperature vinyl, the pull caps fit from 0.180- to 15/8- inch OD and are available in various lengths and alternate colors.
Alliance Plastics, Box 7284, Erie, PA 16510, FAX (814) 898-1638.
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