Big lightweight parts have tiny expansion
Article Abstract:
Schott (Germany) has developed a new process for making lightweight glass-ceramic engineering structures of up to 400 mm in size with a thermal expansion coefficient of around plus or minus 0.02 multiplied by 10 to the 6th power of K. The process enables the assembly and fusing of complex structures into one piece as glass is converted into ceramic half way through manufacture. The process involves the use of Zerodur, a non-porous inorganic substance, consisting of amorphous glassy and crystalline ceramic phases. Before ceramisation, the glass blanks are shaped by machine, then arranged in a honeycomb configuration. Thermal processing develops the crystalline phase, and also fuses structures where they meet, so that a monolithic component is formed with inseparable bonds. The process reduces the weight of a component by more than 80%, compared to a solid component. The process can be used for making precision machine tools and sensors.
Publication Name: Eureka
Subject: Engineering and manufacturing industries
ISSN: 0261-2097
Year: 1992
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Split gears reduce lost motion
Article Abstract:
Harmonic Drive has developed 'Accu-Drive', a new planetary system featuring split gears. The new gearset gives unrivalled transmission performance. In the gearset, a planetary reducer's ring gear is split into two, then pre-loaded against a pair of planetary gears, instead of single gears. The technology could be used in machine tools, automation and inspection systems, and printing and medical machinery. The gearset has zero backlash, high torque capacity and linear torsional rigidity. It also has low hysteresis loss.
Publication Name: Eureka
Subject: Engineering and manufacturing industries
ISSN: 0261-2097
Year: 1992
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Gearing up for a revolution
Article Abstract:
David Brown Radicon designs and makes industrial gear units, but by the end of the 1980s it was experiencing a declining market share. A revitalisation program was undertaken by the company, with the first rejuvenation being its Series M range of in-line helical geared motors. As a result of the modernisation, the Series G medium/heavy duty drive has also been developed. The series incorporates several innovative design features which have cut part count by over 70%.
Publication Name: Eureka
Subject: Engineering and manufacturing industries
ISSN: 0261-2097
Year: 1999
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