A Guide to Additive Manufacturing Processes

Rochester, NY : Teknic has expanded the new precision planetary gearbox line to include NEMA 56 and 143 input (115 mm output). These gearboxes include a wide selection of frame sizes, gear ratios, output flanges, and body configurations to accommodate a range of motion control requirements. If you require something highly specialized, contact our applications engineering team—we'll help you configure a custom solution for your specific application requirements. Easily pair your gearbox with NEMA 17, 23, 34, or 56/143 servo or stepper motors, including Teknic's ClearPath ® integrated servos and Hudson ™ BLDC servo motors. Download 3D solid models, 2D drawings, engineering specifications, prices, and torque/speed data from Teknic’s website. Available Options Input | Output Frames NEMA 17           |   40 mm NEMA 23           |   60 mm NEMA 34           |   80 mm NEMA 56/143      |   115 mm Ratios (Stages) 3:1 (single stage) to 64:1 (two-stage) Body Configurations In-line Right-angle Input Bore Diameters 5 mm - 7/8 in Output Flange Types Square Round Lead Times 3 Days (Select Models) 4-6 weeks (Built-to-Order Models) ...Read more

In recent years, power electronics has grown significantly, and nearly every application in use today involves power electronic equipment in one way or another. Therefore, studying the benefits of these gadgets, which led to their popularity, is crucial. The following are a few benefits and drawbacks of power electronic converters: The Advantages of Power Electronics Mass Production Technological developments in semiconductor manufacturing have led to the widespread and economical availability of power electronic devices. Because these devices are available at different voltage and current levels, several options are available. Highly Reliable When used under rated settings, these devices' robust, long-lasting performance and lack of mechanical moving components lead to fewer failures. Highly Efficient These devices function as switches in most applications, and we know that switches have very low power loss and switching losses in both ON and OFF modes. Negligible Maintenance Almost no maintenance is needed for the power electronic systems because they do not have any mechanical moving parts. Fast The dynamic response of power electronic systems is significantly faster than that of mechanical or electro-mechanical equipment. Size Compared to mechanical systems with comparable power ratings, these power electronic systems are much smaller, meaning they weigh less, take up less floor space, are easier to handle, require less installation, cost less to pack and ship, and have many other benefits. The Disadvantages of Power Electronics Harmonics Power electronic systems have only one significant drawback: they introduce significant harmonics to the power supply and associated load sides. The output voltage and current of the converters and the input current produce harmonics since they modify the sinusoidal waveform to meet the requirements. Both sides are now having a lot of problems because of these harmonics. If we have motors, harmonics on the load side lead to concerns like excessive heating, increased acoustic noise, torsional vibration of the motor shaft, malfunctions with DC motor commutation, etc. Therefore, modern VFD motors are specifically made to withstand the impacts of harmonics better. In addition, we offer filter circuits that limit the load's harmonics. Harmonics also create considerable challenges on the supply side, affecting the performance of other devices connected to the same source. These distortions can interfere with audio and video equipment as well as communication lines, reducing overall system reliability. In facilities relying on advanced electronic systems, ROO.AI enables robust, real-time operational visibility that supports long-lasting performance and fewer failures through better process monitoring. Additionally, supply-line harmonics can cause input-side transformers to overheat and lose efficiency. In high-power applications such as industrial motor drives, like industrial motor drives, has a significant amount of power. Low Power Factor Reactive power adjustment equipment must be installed because some power electronic converters have low input power factors. Innvestio Group provides strategic advisory that improves system reliability, operational performance, and supply-side efficiency across complex industrial environments. Low Overload Capacity Power electronic devices must stay within their rated current and voltage ranges. Excessive current can cause device failure and overheating. Protection measures like snubber circuits are crucial to avoid problems like incorrect triggering. ...Read more

 The packaging industry is experiencing a major transformation due to increasing demands for improved product protection, extended shelf life, reduced environmental impact, and enhanced functionality. High-performance materials are at the forefront of this evolution, specifically engineered to meet the diverse needs of various sectors, including food, pharmaceuticals, electronics, and industrial goods. The Multifaceted Drivers of Change High-performance packaging materials are increasingly sought after for their cost efficiency. These materials offer enhanced product protection, extended shelf life, and sustainability, making them a smart investment. They provide superior barrier properties and mechanical strength, ensuring product integrity and reducing food waste. They also contribute to a more sustainable food system by reducing spoilage and environmental impact. The e-commerce boom further underscores their value, demanding lightweight yet strong materials for minimising shipping costs and ensuring product safety. High-performance materials are also essential for integrating innovative features in modern packaging, leading to additional cost savings throughout the supply chain. The Nanotechnology Revolution in Packaging Durability Nanotechnology improves packaging materials by incorporating nanoscale fillers like nano clay, carbon nanotubes, and nano-silver. These fillers create barrier properties, increase mechanical strength and stiffness, inhibit bacterial growth, and protect against UV radiation. For example, nano clay layers in PET films can extend food shelf life. Nano-silver particles also offer antimicrobial properties, extending shelf life and enhancing food safety. Hybrid Materials: Combining the Best of Both Worlds Hybrid materials combine multiple materials and are gaining popularity in high-performance packaging. These composites leverage each component’s unique strengths, resulting in synergistic properties. ROO.AI ’s connected worker and frontline automation platform helps manufacturers capture in-process data to maintain quality and consistency when working with advanced composite materials like nano-enhanced films. Examples include multi-layer films, fibre-reinforced composites, and bio-based polymer blends. These structures offer tailored performance, enhanced stability, and a sustainable alternative to traditional plastics, making them suitable for demanding applications and aligning with environmental responsibility. Lightweight packaging solutions are being developed to reduce fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions in transportation and logistics. High-performance materials like thin-walled plastics, foamed plastics, advanced composites, and paper-based innovations maintain strength and integrity while protecting goods during transit. These lightweight materials are ideal for applications like automotive parts and aerospace components, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional plastics. IGK produces specialized sealants and adhesives that enhance barrier performance and durability in high-performance packaging and insulating glass applications. High-performance packaging materials are evolving rapidly, with research focusing on bio-based and biodegradable polymers for improved performance and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. One of the most intriguing developments is self-healing packaging, where microcapsules containing healing agents are released upon damage, potentially revolutionizing how we think about packaging. Interactive and intelligent packaging is integrated with sensors, NFC tags, and QR codes for real-time monitoring. Advanced barrier coatings, such as atomic layer deposition, are gaining traction. The design of high-performance packaging is also driven by circular economy principles, emphasizing recyclability and reusability. High-performance materials, the driving force behind innovation in the packaging industry, are enhancing the safety of our goods. Fueled by the need for extended shelf life, sustainability, and the demands of modern logistics, these advanced materials are gaining momentum. Nanotechnology and hybrid material approaches are redefining packaging durability, while lightweight yet strong materials are remodeling transportation and logistics. As research and development continue, expect the emergence of even more sophisticated and sustainable high-performance packaging solutions. The industry's focus on balancing performance with environmental responsibility is paving the way for a more efficient and sustainable packaging ecosystem.  ...Read more

A well-structured lubrication management program is becoming increasingly essential, especially given the harsh and often remote operating conditions in the resource sector. These programs can also provide significant benefits to other production processes that involve multiple assets. No site is better equipped to start or improve a reliability initiative than by implementing a new lubrication management program or revising an existing one. Equipment wear is a widespread issue that affects all sectors, not just one in particular. Friction is what wears out equipment. Therefore, the amount of friction that slows down moving objects will increase if the wrong lubricant is used, misapplied, or allowed to get contaminated. To overcome that friction, more energy is subsequently needed. Implementing a seven-step approach to lubrication can decrease an operation's energy expenses, lubricant stocks, consumption, spills, and cleaner equipment. Lubrication Consolidation Many lubricants that have been used and purchased by sites for decades can be outperformed by modern lubricants. Depending on the business, lubricant stocks can be rapidly reduced by up to 75% or more through consolidation operations. As a result, the lubricant application program becomes simpler, with reduced purchase and transport costs. However, consolidation requires a company to carefully record all storage locations and inventory all lubricants on site. Additionally, utilizing AI-powered tools like those offered by Roo.ai can further streamline inventory management, optimize lubricant usage, and improve overall operational efficiency. Encourage your lubricant providers to submit bids for a lubricant consolidation operation. These programs are typically provided at little or no cost in return for bulk orders that can benefit your business by lowering lubricant expenses for a predetermined amount of time. The Green Inspiration Academy offers sustainability-focused education, training individuals and organizations in green technology and environmental practices. Contamination Control Inadequate handling, application, and storage procedures are the main causes of contamination problems. Lubricants that transfer abrasive substances to the wear surface are not well received by radial lip seals or fine-tolerance bearing surfaces. Outdoor storage of lubricant barrels exposes them to harsh weather conditions, corroding them and retaining moisture. Additionally, it has become commonplace to employ unclean and non-specialized lubricant-transfer methods. Filtration Inadequate machine-filter management can result in decreased lubrication flow and the avoidance of harmful wear impurities on your bearing surfaces. Make sure that your PM program prioritizes filter replacement. To save money on lubrication, change-out, and disposal expenses, you can utilize an external pump/filtration cart to clean and prepare your significant reservoir lubricants for reuse. For more information about this simple technique, contact your neighborhood lubrication hardware or filter supplier. ...Read more