eReport

August 2008

Eriez SafeHold APL Lifting Magnets Simplify Difficult Steel Handling Operations

SafeHold APL series lifting magnets from Eriez safely lift and move steel sheets without direct attachment by slings, hooks or cables. These permanent magnets require no manual operator intervention, enabling quicker, more efficient handling.

Eriez’ SafeHold APL series is uniquely designed so that an operator is not required to manually release the magnet. The superior design of the APL magnet makes it a well suited choice for loading and unloading steel sheets from burn tables--or anywhere that limits operator access. Since operators using the APL do not have to bend and reach for handles as they do when using a manual magnet, the risk of injury is reduced.

The SafeHold APL Lifting Magnet requires no electricity. There is no costly DC power supply and no battery to recharge.

SafeHold APL Lifting Magnets can be used singly or in multiples on a spreader beam. They are available in three models to handle a wide range of lifting requirements. Models include the APL-152 to handle capacities up to 1,650 lbs (748 kg), the APL-154 lifts up to 3,630 lbs (1,650kg) and for maximum lift capability, the SafeHold APL-156 lifts up to 5,800 lbs (2,630 kg).

 Adams Offers Flexible, Magnetic Label Blanks

Adams Magnetic Products Co. offers flexible magnetic Pre-Cut and Scored Label Blanks. Suitable for labeling metal shelving, they are typically used as a warehouse label or price tag holder in retail stores.

Adams’ Pre-Cut and Scored Label Blanks are significantly stronger on one side and can have adhesives and/or vinyl applied to the other side for use on a variety of substrates. The label blanks are pre-cut or scored in any specified width or length to quickly create a label or barcode. In addition, the Scored Label Blanks may be specified in a yellow laminate, providing an eye-catching, easy-to-read background for displaying information.

“The pre-cut and scored features make the already popular magnetic label easier to use,” explains Craig Myers, Adams’ national sales manager. “Customers also appreciate that a magnet offers the ability to reuse and reapply the item as needed.”

At 0.060-inches thick and one-inch in height, these thin, flexible magnets are available in standard, pre-cut lengths of 3, 3.5, and 4 inches, or on a roll, scored at 1, 2 and 3 inch widths. Adams flexible magnetic products use multi-pole magnetization pattern for maximum holding power that adheres and remains magnetic at temperatures as low as -15ºF and as high as 160ºF.

Vishay Extends 140 CRH Series of SMD Aluminum Capacitors to Provide High Capacitance Values up to 1,000 μF, High Ripple Currents to 900 mA at 125°C, and Low ESR Down to 90 mΩ

In a move to meet the demands for performance and reliability in automotive and industrial systems, Vishay Intertechnology, Inc. has extended the capabilities of its 140 CRH series of surface-mount aluminum capacitors to offer very high capacitance values and ripple currents.

A polarized aluminum electrolytic capacitor with a non-solid, self-healing electrolyte, the 140 CRH is well suited for filtering, smoothing, buffering and voltage decoupling applications in automotive and industrial systems for high ambient temperatures up to 125°C.

Offering enhanced performance and reliability, the devices feature a capacitance range of 10 μF to 1,000 μF over a voltage range of 6.3 V to 63 V, a high ripple current up to 900 mA at 100 kHz/125°C and ESR down to 90 mΩ at 100 kHz. The capacitors are available in five case sizes, ranging from 8 mm by 8 mm by 10 mm to the larger 12.5 mm by 12.5 mm by 16 mm.

For high vibration capability, 140 CRH capacitors with 12.5-mm diameters are available in 4-pin versions, with 4-pin versions of 10-mm devices available on request. The capacitors feature a long life up to 3,000 hours at 125°C.
The RoHS-compliant devices are charge- and discharge-proof, so there is no peak current limitation. The capacitors operate over a broad temperature range from -55°C to 125°C.

Samples and production quantities of the 140 CRH SMD aluminum capacitors are available now, with lead times of 15 weeks for larger orders.

Bodine Electric Company Releases Larger INTEGRAmotor

Bodine Electric Company has added a new 34B-frame, 24 V brushless DC motor to its standard INTEGRAmotor product line. The product combines a PWM speed control, a brushless DC motor and an optical encoder into one innovative drive solution.

The 34B/FV provides 1/4 hp (187 watts) and up to 100 oz-in. (0.706 Nm) continuous torque, making this new INTEGRAmotor more than twice as powerful as any model previously available from Bodine. Like the smaller INTEGRAmotors, the new larger frame size operates from a regulated 24 VDC power supply and speed is controlled with a digital pulse width modulation (PWM) interface. The integrated control accepts inputs from an external motion controller or Programmable Logic Controller (PLC). An enclosed 1024 PPR, 2 channel, optical encoder provides closed loop feedback to the external controller. The 34B/FV can be combined with a wide selection of parallel shaft, right angle or hollow shaft integral gearheads, with output speeds ranging from 0.3 to 500 RPM and rated torque of up to 350 lb-in. (40 Nm). INTEGRAmotors and gearmotors are rated IP-44.

The new brushless DC INTEGRAmotor is designed to be a lower cost alternative for applications that typically require stepper or high-end servo systems. It can also replace traditional brush-type DC motors in applications that operate continuously (eliminating brush wear, and brush maintenance), or in applications where contamination with carbon dust from brush-type DC motors is not acceptable. INTEGRAmotors and gearmotors are frequently found in medical equipment, packaging machines, conveyor systems, printing and photo finishing machinery and factory automation applications. Special order versions of INTEGRAmotor gearmotors can also be supplied with food-grade gearhead lubricants.

Allegro Microsystems, Inc. Introduces New Low Voltage Dual DC/Stepper Motor Driver

Allegro MicroSytems, Inc. has introduced a low voltage dual full bridge motor driver designed to drive one bipolar stepper motor or two DC motors. This new device is part of Allegro’s low voltage motor driver series targeted at portable battery- powered applications. Each output channel in this new device is rated at 1 A with an operating supply voltage range of 2.5 V to 9 V. Key features include fixed off time PWM current control, low on resistance DMOS outputs and a peak current flag output.

The output current for each full bridge can be controlled using the internal fixed off time PWM regulator or by PWM control of the two logic inputs. The current flag output is triggered when the output current reaches the trip level for the internal PWM regulator and stays on for a minimum of 300 usec. This feature is used to detect DC motor stall conditions and allows for control of the stall time for improved battery life and to prevent damage to the motor.

The output drivers are all N-channel DMOS full bridges. An internal charge pump supply will double or even triple VBB to insure proper gate drive voltage for the high and low side DMOS. The stable gate drive results in a consistent output on resistance over the full input voltage range. Protection features include thermal shutdown, under voltage lockout and crossover current protection. Internal synchronous rectification control circuitry is provided to improve power dissipation during PWM operation.

Allegro’s A3906 is targeted at the consumer, industrial, office automation and medical markets and is supplied in a 4 mm by 4 mm, 20-contact QFN package with exposed thermal pad. This small footprint package is lead (Pb) free with 100 percent matte tin leadframe plating. It is priced at $0.74 in quantities of 1,000 and has a 14-week lead-time to market.

Eraser’s Model K8a Rotary Blade Wire Stripper

Eraser’s Model K8A Rotary Blade Stripper is a precision rotary wire stripper for round, extruded, built-up (solid and stranded), magnet, enamel, film insulated wires and coaxial cables. The K8A can remove tough insulations such as Kapton, silicon rubber and armored polythermaleze. Blade depth, blade pressure and strip length is adjustable. Close-up stripping to work pieces, coil bodies and bobbins is possible as the blade tips are located directly behind the see through guard. By removing the strip length stop, window stripping on magnet wire is also possible.

Magnetic Mini Sweeper with Quick Release Conveniently Cleans up Hazardous Scrap Metal

Master Magnetics, Inc. has introduced the Magnetic Mini Sweeper with Quick Release. It meets the need of getting into tight spaces unlike its larger counter-parts. Its telescoping handle and small footprint make it easy to store in a work vehicle or hang in a garage.

This incredibly strong sweeper easily picks up small ferrous metal objects such as shavings or nails that could cause injury or costly tire repairs. The Magnetic Mini Sweeper with Quick Release action can be used for a variety of handyman applications for both indoor and/or outdoor applications.

Just roll the sweeper over any area to collect metal pieces. The Quick Release mechanism is a simple and easy slide of the handle that drops collected scrap metal into the recycle bin without having to manually wipe the magnet clean. This tool is well suited for homeowners, mechanics and roofing contractors for quick, easy and convenient clean up around the yard, garage, parking lot, workshop or jobsite. Helps prevent personal injury and saves on project clean up times.

The sweeper has 4-inch wheels, weighs 3 lbs. and features a 40-inch handle that retracts down to 27 inches for easy transport and storage. Its size is suited for retail space. The magnet has a 13-inch sweeping width with an overall wheelbase of 15.5 inches. The suggested retail price for the Magnetic Mini Sweeper with Quick Release with its telescoping handle is $49.99.

Magnetics 2009 is being held April 15-16 in Chicago, Ill. There is a limited number of speaking slots available! Don’t miss your chance to share your expertise with the rest of the industry.

Deadline to Submit Abstracts: October 17th • Premier Priority Acceptance: Submit Abstracts by September 26th

This two-day conference is a leading global event within the magnetics market, bringing together worldwide magnetics experts. This is a once-a-year opportunity for professionals involved in magnetics technologies to learn the latest advancements in magnetic applications, technology and materials.

Magnetics 2009 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.

Contact Heather Krier or visit http://www.magneticsmagazine.com/conf-2009/mag_conf09_papers.php for more information

Interested in Exhibiting at Magnetics 2009? Contact Sue Hannebrink at SueH@infowebcom.com.

Did you miss the 2008 Magnetics Conference?
The conference proceedings from the 2008 Magnetics Conference held in Denver, Colo. on May 15-16, are available on CD-ROM and include audio and video of select presentations.
Click Here to Order!

Ansoft Chairman and CTO Receives IEEE AP-S Distinguished Achievement Award

Ansoft Corp.’s founder, chairman and chief technology officer Dr. Zoltan Cendes received the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Antennas and Propagation Society (AP-S) Distinguished Achievement Award.

The award, given to Cendes for his "contributions to the widespread use of user-friendly software tools for electromagnetic analysis and design," recognizes outstanding career achievements by an individual in the field of antennas and propagation.

Cendes accepted the award at the awards banquet of the 2008 IEEE International Symposium on Antennas and Propagation and the 2008 United States National Committee of the International Union of Radio Science (USNC/URSI) National Radio Science Meeting.

In addition to his responsibilities at Ansoft, Cendes is an adjunct professor at Carnegie Mellon in Pittsburgh. He has served as professor of electrical and computer engineering at Carnegie Mellon, as an associate professor of electrical engineering at McGill University in Montreal, Canada, and as an engineer in the Corporate Research and Development Center of the General Electric Company in Schenectady, New York. Cendes, who received his MS and doctoral degrees in electrical engineering from McGill, is a fellow of the IEEE and has served on the editorial board of IEEE Spectrum, on the International Steering Committee of the Compumag conference and as an IEEE AP-S Distinguished Lecturer.

RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT

Northeastern University Scientists Discover Rapid, Cost-Effective, 100 Percent Recyclable Method to Produce Ultra-strong Magnets

Innovative Processing Method Set to Bring Changes to Federal and Commercial Industries
Ultra-strong, high-temperature, high-performance permanent magnet compounds, such as Samarium Cobalt, are the mainstay materials for several industries that rely on high-performance motor and power generation applications, including the Department of Defense (DOD) and the automotive industry. Until now, producing Samarium Cobalt has been a difficult and expensive multi-step process. Northeastern University researchers have broken new ground with an innovative invention of a rapid, high-volume and cost-effective one-step method for producing pure Samarium Cobalt rare earth permanent magnet materials.

Invented by lead scientist C.N. Chinnasamy, Ph.D., at Northeastern’s Center for Microwave Magnetic Materials and Integrated Circuits, the direct chemical synthesis process is able to produce Samarium Cobalt rapidly and in large amounts, at a small fraction of the cost of the current industry method. Also, the process is environmentally friendly, with 100 percent recyclable chemicals, and readily scalable to large volume synthesis to meet the needs for the myriad of advanced permanent magnet applications.

“A single step chemical process has been pursued for decades with little success,” said Vincent Harris, William Lincoln Smith Chair professor and director of the Center for Microwave Magnetic Materials and Integrated Circuits at Northeastern University and Principal Investigator of the program. “This research breakthrough represents a potentially disruptive step forward in the cost-effective processing of these important materials.”

Samarium Cobalt magnets are superior to other classes of permanent magnetic materials for advanced high-temperature applications and the Northeastern invention goes beyond the currently known fabrication process of these nanostructured magnets. Unlike the traditional multi-step metallurgical techniques that provide limited control of the size and shape of the final magnetic particles, the Northeastern scientists’ one-step method produces air-stable “nanoblades” (elongated nanoparticles shaped like blades) that allow for a more efficient assembly that may ultimately result in smaller and lighter magnets without sacrificing performance.

“Such unusually shaped particles should prove valuable in the processing of anisotropic magnets that are highly sought in many DOD and commercial applications and are anticipated to lead to lighter and more energy-efficient end products,” said C.N. Chinnasamy.

“Northeastern’s new one-step process has the potential to reduce complexity and associated costs of processing Samarium Cobalt magnets, which are used in many advanced DOD weapon systems,” said Richard T. Fingers, Ph.D., chief, Energy Power Thermal Division of the Air Force Research Laboratory.

Underscoring the significance of the Northeastern invention relative to the high-performance rare earth magnet industry, Jinfang Liu, Ph.D., vice president of Technology and Engineering,  Electron Energy Corporation, said, “The development of stable Samarium Cobalt nanoparticles using this one-step chemical synthesis method may motivate more scientists and engineers to work on the development of next generation magnets.”

This invention is anticipated to not only revitalize the permanent magnet industry, it has the potential to bring major changes to several federal and commercial industries, including its potential to impact the size, weight and performance of aircraft, ships and land-based vehicles, as well as contribute to more efficient computer technologies and emerging biomedical applications.

“This work represents the most promising advance in rare earth permanent magnet processing in many years,” said Laura Henderson Lewis, professor of Chemical Engineering and chair of the Department of Chemical Engineering at Northeastern University and a collaborator on this project. “I expect it to revitalize international interest in the development of this important class of engineering materials.”

Strongly aligned with the goals set forth in Northeastern University’s Academic Plan, this invention has the potential to serve global and societal needs by crossing national boundaries and having a significant impact on the engineering discipline through academia and industry.

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