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March 2008

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Metrolab Introduces 3-Axis Hall Magnetometer

Metrolab Instruments SA has introduced a 3-axis Hall magnetometer, the model THM1176, nicknamed “MagneticEndoscope.”

The Magnetic Endoscope replaces Metrolab’s previous 3-axis Hall magnetometer, the THM7025, developed to ensure the safety of MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) facilities. By measuring the total strength of the magnetic field around an MRI system, these instruments allow safety officers to identify areas where patients with metallic implants risk serious injury, where iron objects such as screwdrivers or wheelchairs become lethal projectiles, and where electronic equipment may malfunction.

Metrolab’s 3-axis Hall magnetometers simultaneously measure all three axes of the magnetic field, rather than a single axis as most magnetometers do. This ensures a correct reading of total field no matter the orientation of the probe. Metrolab's are the world’s only handheld, battery-operated 3-axis magnetometers, suitable for field use.

Factory calibration with Metrolab's NMR Precision Teslameter, the gold standard for magnetometers, provides ±1% accuracy with automatic temperature compensation.

The THM1176 introduces a host of additional new features:
- Measurement ranges of up to 20T are adapted to the strong fields encountered in modern magnetics applications;
- Measurement rates of up to 2000/second permit detecting rapid field fluctuations typical of motors and power supplies;
- A point-like active volume – 3 sensors integrated on a single IC – provides accurate readings even in highly non-uniform fields;
- Spinning-current techniques minimize offset and offset drift, two bugaboos of Hall magnetometers;
- A compact, endoscope-like probe is easy to handle and gets into the smallest nooks and crannies;
- An industry-standard USB interface connects to a PDA for handheld use, or directly to a PC for laboratory use; and
- LabVIEW interface libraries allow users to easily develop custom applications.

With this new generation of Hall magnetometers, Metrolab introduces an instrument that reaches far beyond the traditional application area of MRI safety. For example, all magnetic system designers and users of strong research magnets now have a compact and easy-to-use tool to map a magnetic field.

Metrolab is the global market leader for precision teslameters, used to measure high intensity magnetic fields to a very high degree of precision. Combining the reliability of a 20-year old industrial manufacturer with the responsiveness of a service company, Metrolab has won the trust of all leading players in Magnetic Resonance Imaging, such as General Electric, Philips and Siemens Magnet Technology, as well
as all major physics laboratories such as the European centre CERN, Fermilab in the USA, and KEK in Japan.

Please see www.metrolab.com for more information.

 New High-Current, Radial-Leaded Inductors for Challenging EMI Environments

The new DR371-1 and DR371-2 series Radial Leaded, Molded Inductors from Datatronic Distribution, Inc., combine high performance over a wide inductance range in challenging EMI operating environments with rugged packaging, ROHS compliant lead material, long-life and economy.

Depending on the specific model, the DR371-1 and DR371-2 inductors feature an inductance range from 0.22 to 33 mH.   The DCR is specified from 0.59 to 42 mOhms maximum over a maximum current rating from 5 to 38 amps. They are compatible with temperatures ranging from -55°C to 125°C.

The DR371-1 and DR371-2 inductors are designed for high current circuit applications in demanding electrical environments where EMI is a threat.  These radial leaded inductors provide exceptionally reliable circuit protection against electromagnetic interference from a variety of sources and operating conditions.
Requirements for inductors with high current ratings are becoming increasingly common in today's higher density, lower voltage power supply designs, as well as in many types of electronic equipment operating outdoors or within industrial plants.  The DR371-1 and DR372-2 inductors are well suited for commercial and industrial equipment, including automotive, factory automation, heavy equipment, industrial machinery, instrumentation, power supplies, telecom and more.

With their through-hole design, the DR371-1 and DR372-2 series inductors come in rectangular packages sized from as small as 0.430 inch wide by 0.510 inches long diameter, with height from 0.374 inch (9.5 mm) depending on the specific model.   There are compatible with high-speed assembly equipment, and they are also suitable for high-temperature soldering. 

Custom designed DR371 series inductors can be specified to meet unique circuit requirements.   They are priced from $0.175 to $0.19 each in typical production volumes.  Lead-time is stock to six weeks.  Volume OEM pricing is available upon request.

Magnetic Analysis Corp. Introduces Multimac Multi-Mode Eddy Current Tester

Magnetic Analysis Corp. (MAC) introduces MultiMac, a new Windows based, multi-mode eddy current tester that operates with encircling/sector test coils (to detect short-surface defects) and/or rotary test probes (to identify long, seam-type surface defects). The new multi-mode capability incorporates all of the best features of MAC's individual encircling coil and rotary probe instruments into one unit.

The MultiMac includes up to eight test channels and a wide selection of test parameters and special circuits to enhance signal-to-noise ratio. Building on the successful Echohunter software graphics, the instrument's Test Screen displays a single channel and the Multi-Screen provides a simultaneous display of one to eight channels. The Test Screen provides all the information needed to set up and operate MultiMac. Both screens display simultaneous polar and linear modes and all test parameters, including thresholds.

Each channel on the MultiMac can be individually configured with different frequencies and different channel modes. For example, "differential" mode is used to detect short weld-line defects, while "absolute" mode is appropriate for long, continuous surface flaws and open welds. A choice of three thresholds per channel - All Phase, Sector, or Chord - can be mapped to any of eight outputs, independently configurable for time or distance delay and normal reject or latched mode.

With these features, MultiMac can be used to test a wide variety of non-magnetic products, or inspect magnetic material by using Direct Current saturation systems. A special configuration of channels, based on flux leakage phenomenon, provides detection of very small subsurface steel inclusions in copper or aluminum rod. Test speeds for the MultiMac can range from one fpm up to several thousand fpm. MultiMac offers end-suppression circuitry with optional optical sensor to prevent false signals from leading and trailing ends.

The MultiMac offers enhanced recording capability and remote access through in-plant networks or the Internet. Featuring user-configurable reports, data output could include customer and product information, defect location, time, amplitude and phase. Reports can be stored locally on a network server or on a flash memory device using the USB port.

Operator interface for the Windows-based system is by use of a keyboard and mouse. The all-inclusive model, designed for demanding plant environments, consists of a sealed, heavy-duty cabinet with a built-in 17 inch monitor, air conditioner and pull-out keyboard. Other smaller models can be supplied with the pull-out keyboard, an air conditioner and separate, optional monitor.

BI Technologies Develops Compact Surface Mount Power Inductor

Providing design engineers with a compact power device in a cost-efficient package, TT electronics BI Technologies has developed a tight DCR surface mount power inductor. Designated the HM69T series, the inductor measures 7.4 mm by 7.2 mm, with a height of 5 mm.

"The compact footprint makes the HM69T series inductor well suited for space-saving designs, including those applications with limited printed circuit board space," said David Smolik, director of product development for BI Technologies.  "Coupled with a tight DCR tolerance of ±3 percent and cost-efficient packaging, the inductor is specified for high volume power supply applications, such as voltage regulators and power circuits for central processing units."

The HM69T surface mount power inductors feature inductance values of 90 nH, 100 nH and 150 nH, with rated DC current of 57 A, 52 A and 27 A, respectively. DCR tolerance is to ±3 percent, with typical DCRs of 0.298m<ohm>. Operating temperature ranges from -40°C to 125°C, with a maximum temperature rise of 40°C.

Typical pricing for the HM69T series inductor is approximately $0.48 to $0.63 each depending on volume and package size.  Lead times are from 12 to 14 weeks.

Register for the 2008 Magnetics Conference by April 4th and Save $200!
Preliminary Program Now Available Online!
This two-day conference will be held May 15-16, 2008 in Denver, Colo., and is a leading global event within the magnetics market, bringing together worldwide magnetics experts. This is a once-a-year opportunity for professionals in the magnetics market to assemble and discuss the latest magnetics developments.

The 2008 Magnetics Conference will focus on the latest advancements in magnetic applications, technology and materials. Serving OEM developers of products that utilize magnets and magnet systems, design engineers, OEM developers involved in EMC technology and magnetic effects, magnetics manufacturers and integrators, and material suppliers in the magnetics industry.

• Register by April 4, 2008 - $795
• Register after April 4, 2008 - $995

Attend the 2008 Magnetics Conference to see industry-leading companies such as:
Advanced Magnet Lab, Alliance LLC, AR, Big Horn Valve, Inc., CMS Magnetics, Crane Aerospace & Electronics, Daido Electronics Co., Ltd., Dexter Magnetic Technologies, Electron Energy Corp., GMW Associates, Hitachi Metals, Ltd., Infolytica Corp., Magnequench International, Inc., Magnetic Power, Inc., MAGSYS magnet systems, Metrolab Technology, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Ozenbaugh Engineering, PolarisREM, LLC, Quadrant Technology, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, SuperPower, Inc., TarnoTek, Thomas & Skinner, Inc., Vector Fields Ltd., Walter T. Benecki LLC, WebMagnetics, Inc., West Coast Magnetics, Wire Wound Components in Power Electronics

Come a day early and attend one of our pre-conference workshops (link to workshop page below) http://www.magneticsmagazine.com/mag_conf08_workshops.htm

Register Now! (link to registration page below) http://www.magneticsmagazine.com/mag_conf08_registration.php

Limited Speaking Spots Still Available

There is a limited number of speaking spots still available at the 2008 Magnetics Conference. Submit your abstracts soon to guarentee your spot in the conference program. Abstracts must be received by February 8, 2008 for consideration and inclusion in the official conference brochure.

Full-conference registration fees will be waived for all confirmed speakers.

Visit the conference web site (link to  http://www.magneticsmagazine.com/mag_conf08_callforpres.htm ) for abstract submission requirements and guidelines.

Contact Heather Krier at heatherk@infowebcom.com or 800-803-9488 x129 for more information.

Interested in Sponsoring or Exhibiting?
Contact Joan Nelson for more information at joann@infowebcom.com or 800-803-9488 x113.

Webcom Presents Multiple Industries Patent Workshop ~ at the 2008 Magnetics Conference in Denver, Colo., May 14, 2008 ~

Half Day Workshop:Intellectual Property Issues for New Product Development

May 14, 2008 (1 p.m. to 5 p.m.) - Beverages and Course Materials Provided

The workshop will start with an overview of the various types of intellectual property, including patents, trademark, copyrights, trade secrets, non-competes and publishing. It will feature a detailed discussion of patents, including type of patents, what is patentable, patent laws and rules, the patenting process and patent strategy. Also covered will be the integration of the patenting process with the new product development process and discussion of critical patent strategy issues. It will conclude with a practical training session for writing technical disclosures for patenting purposes.

For more details about what attendees can expect to learn from this workshop visit http://www.magneticsmagazine.com/mag_conf08_workshops.htm#akc.

• Register before March 14, 2008 - $395         • Register after March 14, 2008 - $495

Register Now!
Visit http://www.magneticsmagazine.com/mag_conf08_workshop_reg.php/. 

Orangeline High Speed Maglev Development Authority Announces Investor and Developer Conference

Potential private sector investors, transportation infrastructure contactors and real estate developers will participate in the Orangeline High Speed Maglev Investor and Developer Conference, March 26th at the Sheraton Grand Sacramento Hotel in Sacramento, California.
Attendees will learn how they can participate in the $19 billion Orangeline High Speed Maglev system development as part of the a major 108-mile corridor public-private partnership project development that includes a futuristic mode of rapid transit, transit-oriented housing, retail, commercial, entertainment and other real estate improvements.

Conference attendees will hear from Dan Dunmoyer, Deputy Chief of Staff and Cabinet Secretary to California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, Hector De La Torre, Chairman of the California Assembly Rules Committee, Kirk Cartozian, Chairman of the Orangeline Development Authority, Andy Cohen, Executive Director of Gensler, and others as they share their vision of a major transit-oriented investment and development opportunity in Southern California.

“The purpose of the Conference is to learn about the Orangeline High Speed Maglev - a solution to the region’s growing transportation needs,” said Mr. Cartozian of the Orangeline Development Authority. “The Maglev train system will connect two of the most densely populated counties in the country, Los Angeles and Orange Counties. Maglev uses clean, electromagnetic levitation to lift and propel trains along an above-ground monorail.”

Conference attendees will provide input for the creation of formal requests for proposals and interested parties will receive information they will need to further participate in this process as the Orangeline Development Authority seeks development proposals.

For more information about attending this conference, including the meeting costs, go to http://investor.calmaglev.org/index.html.

ORNL, SuperPower Inc. Sign High Temperature Superconducting Wire Agreement

The US Department of Energy's (DOE) Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) has signed a license agreement with SuperPower Inc., a Schenectady, N.Y., superconducting wire manufacturer, to use an ORNL-developed technology that can lower the cost of producing superconducting wires for more efficient transmission of electricity.

The licensing agreement is part of a national effort led by DOE to research, develop and ultimately transfer energy technologies from DOE national laboratories to the global marketplace. Patricia A. Hoffman, DOE principal deputy assistant secretary for Electricity Delivery and Energy Reliability, said incorporating these high temperature superconducting wires and power equipment into the nation's electric grid will help meet rapidly growing demand for energy in an energy-efficient, cost-effective manner.

"This licensing agreement continues the long history of successes moving DOE technology from its labs to the marketplace," Hoffman said. "High temperature superconductivity is a revolutionary and cross-cutting technology that can further the Administration's long-term effort to transform our nation's electricity infrastructure and provide a safe, reliable and affordable stream of electricity to all Americans."

Superconductors are special materials with no electrical resistance at extremely low temperatures. High temperature superconductors (HTS), discovered in 1986, lose resistance at warmer (though still very cold) temperatures than conventional superconductors.

Cooled by cheap and abundant liquid nitrogen, high temperature superconductors can be used to make lighter, smaller, more efficient, higher capacity power devices; relieve congested power line networks; and increase power transmission capacity.

Second generation, or 2G, wires made by depositing high temperature superconducting materials onto inexpensive metal templates coated with ceramic buffer layers will make high temperature superconducting wires less expensive to produce.

ORNL's pioneering research on 2G wires includes discovery of lanthanum-manganese-oxide as a buffer material that can be formed rapidly using commercial film-deposition processes.

"This agreement with SuperPower is a great example of ORNL working with industry and delivering the science and technology to help address the nation's energy challenges," ORNL Director Thom Mason said.

Mason also cited the ORNL-SuperPower team's 2007 R&D100 Award and 2007 Federal Laboratory Consortium Southeast Region Excellence in Technology Transfer Award as indicators of their joint success.

Venkat Selvamanickam, vice president and chief technical officer of SuperPower, said his company has worked under a cooperative research and development agreement with ORNL to incorporate this buffer technology into its commercial 2G HTS wire as well as to enhance various performance metrics of its wire.

"SuperPower has successfully integrated ORNL's buffer technology into our 2G wire manufacturing process," Selvamanickam said. "The license agreement provides SuperPower the opportunity to commercially benefit from this and ORNL's future advancements in 2G HTS wire technology."

SuperPower's pilot manufacturing facility has yielded the world's longest 2G wire with world-record performance.

Selvamanickam said 10,000 meters of the wire have been fabricated into an HTS power cable which has been installed into the power grid in Albany, N.Y., the world's first "on-the-grid" device demonstration of this technology.

The agreement builds on DOE's recent announcement to provide up to $51.8 million for five-cost shared projects that aim to advance the development and application of high-temperature superconductors that will help modernize the U.S. electric grid system. SuperPower Inc. was among one of the companies selected by DOE to receive funding for these cost-shared projects.
For more information on the Department's efforts to modernize the electric grid, enhance the security and reliability of our energy infrastructure, and facilitate recovery from disruptions to energy supply, visit: www.oe.energy.gov.

Global Market for Nanoparticles in Electronic, Magnetic and Optoelectronic Applications Slated for High Growth Through 2012

According to a new technical market research report, Nanostructured Materials: Electronic/Magnetic/Optoelectronic from BCC Research, the global market for nanoparticles in electronic, magnetic and optoelectronic applications was worth $521.9 million in 2007. This is expected to increase to more than $1.7 billion by 2012, a compound average annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.5 percent.

The market is broken down into applications of electronic, magnetic and optoelectronic applications. Of these, electronic applications hold the largest share of the market. Worth an estimated $433.7 million in 2007, this segment is expected to be worth $894.6 million in 2012, a CAGR of 15.6 percent.

The second largest segment in 2007, cosmetic applications are expected to decline at an average rate of almost 19 percent per year and, as a result, their market value is projected to be $25.4 million in 2012. Optoelectronic applications’ share should grow from 3.1 percent to 18 percent between 2006 and 2012 and reach $201.4 million.

Within these three broad application segments, several specific applications stand out; chemical-mechanical planarization (CMP) was the largest market for nanoparticles in 2006, followed by magnetic recording media and multi-layer ceramic capacitors. However, consumption of nanoparticles for magnetic recording media is projected to decline, while new applications such as LEDs and quantum optical devices are growing rapidly. As a result, magnetic recording media are expected to drop to sixth place by 2012, behind CMP, quantum optical devices, multilayer ceramic capacitors, LEDs and advanced displays, and fiber optic cable.

Three types of nanoparticles (silica, iron oxide and alumina) together accounted for more than 85 percent of the electronic, magnetic and optoelectronic market in 2006. While alumina consumption is projected to grow faster than the market as a whole, silica and particularly iron oxide are expected to underperform the market and consequently lose market share. Meanwhile ceria and other oxides and quantum dots are expected to increase their market share significantly.

For more information or to order this report visit www.bccresearch.com.

3/10 - 3/14
APS March Meeting
New Orleans, LA

The 2008 Magnetics Conference will focus on the latest advancements in magnetic applications, technology and materials, and will be held May 15-16 in Denver, Colo.
Visit http://www.magneticsmagazine.com/mag_conf08_index.htm for more information.

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