November/December 2020

45 www.drivesncontrols.com November/December 2020 DESIGN DATA AND MULTIMEDIA n NSK has published a catalogue showcasing its bearings for electric motors, including products with special characteristics such as such as low torque and reduced heat generation. As well as describing technologies including deep-groove ball bearings and cylindrical roller bearings, the 36-page catalogue contains advice and information for engineers involved inmotor design andmaintenance. It lays out bearing requirements for four main applications: servomotors; high-efficiency motors; speed-controlled (inverter) motors; and EV (electric vehicle) motors. It covers ancillary technologies such as greases and seals, and contains information on diagnosing bearing damage by analysing noise or vibration, as well as damage patterns in bearings. www.nsk-literature.com/en/industrial-motor-bearings Chain configurator generates 2D and 3D CAD files Industrial chain users can now design attachment chain using an online configurator from Tsubaki that offers various design options and the ability to export 2D and 3D CAD models. The software allows users to build BS/DIN and Ansi single-strand attachment chains via a drag-and-drop interface. Chain and roller types, sizes, materials, lengths and repeating sections, can all be customised. During the process, chains can be viewed from any angle, including internally. The configurator also provides measurements. When a design is finished, users can generate 3D models, select and download 2D or 3D CAD files in a choice of formats, download and print designs as PDFs, or request a quote. https://tsubaki.eu/support/chain-configurator White Paper explains the role of IT power distribution Power for data centre servers is taken from the mains via socket systems in IT racks known as PDUs (power distribution units). Rittal has published aWhite Paper looking at their role. PDUs are becoming more sophisticated in response to the expansion of data centres and the changing needs of operators. The latest generation form the basis of safe, efficient and energy- optimised operation. They can monitor and control power supplies down to individual socket-outlets. They also support remote maintenance, are network-capable, and play a key role in energy management, allowing users not only to monitor energy costs, but also to identify where the costs are coming from, and how to lower them. https://info.rittal.co.uk/new_pdu Free automation podcast targets manufacturing professionals The automation parts supplier EU Automation has launched a free podcast aimed at manufacturing professionals and covering topics ranging from tips on how to fix common factory issues, to overviews of industry trends. For example, there is advice on industrial robots, obsolescence management, and strategies to improve predictive maintenance. Several seasons of the EUAudio podcast are already online andmore will be added soon. Each season contains three episodes that explore a trend, challenge, or innovation. The podcast is available from EU’sWeb site and the main audio streaming platforms. www.euautomation.com/en/automated/euaudio Catalogue focuses on bearings for electric motors Videos help viewers to develop automation skills Beckhoff Automation has launched a series of free interactive videos aimed at helping viewers to use the company’s products and services – including safety systems, controllers and HMIs – effectively. People can watch the Skills Labs videos anytime and anywhere to acquire skills, without needing to attend a live Webinar at a set time. The videos are hosted by Beckhoff experts and will be updated frequently. At present, the main focus on skills related to Beckhoff’s TwinCat, IoT, TwinCat 3 HMI and TwinSafe ranges. www.beckhoffblog.co.uk/skillslabs MTA issues guidance on UKCA and CE marking The Manufacturing Technologies Association (MTA) has prepared a short guide to the requirements for the UKCA mark which will supersede the CE mark and become the conformity assessment marking for Great Britain on 1 January 2021 when the Britain leaves the European single market. The downloadable guide includes FAQs and also examines overlaps between the UKCA and CE marks. There are sections for UK exporters to the EU and for suppliers of goods imported from the EU. https://drivesncontrols.news/apwu4 Motion specialist brings brands together on newWeb site MTI , the motion technologies manufacturer, has launched a newWeb site which brings together the previously separate Web sites of its businesses, which include Torque Systems, PST and Davall Gears . The US- headquartered company has operations in the UK and Mexico, and specialises in customised ballscrew, motors, actuators and gear products. The new site, which reflects how it has evolved and added new businesses and product lines, includes a company overview, and provides information on MTI’s products, services, and capabilities, from designing and prototyping to testing and production. www.mtimotion.com Nema report examines best practices for 5G in manufacturing The US-based National Electrical Manufacturers Association (Nema) has worked with consultants from ABI Research to develop a guidance document to help readers to identify opportunities for implementing 5G technologies for efficient manufacturing. Wireless 5G connections promise low-latency, high-bandwidth communications between machines, objects, and people, and could allow robots and autonomous vehicles to collaborate. The 5G Best Practices Technical Guidance Report examines: 5G capabilities for vertical sectors, including manufacturing; the implications of 5G for legacy industrial networks; energy mitigation strategies; regulations; and cybersecurity concerns. The report is free for Nema members, and $500 for non- members. www.nema.org/standards/view/5g-best-practices-technical- guidance-report