Technical Innovations
Dana takes flight with wing bearing driveshaft
 Dana has added wing bearing driveshafts to its product line to accomodate a wider range of off-highway applications. |
Dana's Spicer Off-Highway Driveshaft Group has debuted a new Spicer wing bearing driveshaft product line with increased torque capacities ranging from 800 to more than 62,000 N•m (590 to 46,000 lb•ft) to accommodate a larger variety of applications. Built with a triple lip seal, thrust washer, and seal guard package for extended operating life, the driveshaft also features a cold forged cross. The improved slip spline system is sealed and permanently lubricated for reduced maintenance. An induction hardening process is used during the manufacture of the driveshaft for improved strength. A universal joint kit is available with standard or permanently lubricated options.
To provide quick global turnaround for the product, Spicer maintains dedicated assembly operations in Crescentino, Italy, and Sterling, IL, as single points of contact for European and North American customers, respectively. The two facilities allow Dana to build wing-style as well as the more widely used multiple-series driveshafts in more flexible volumes.
 The company has also added a new powershuttle transmission engineered specifically for compact vehicles such as backhoes, telescopic handlers, and tow tractors. |
At this year's CONEXPO, Dana's Off-Highway Systems Group featured a new powershuttle transmission for telehandlers and wheel loaders, while also exhibiting a variety of new stand-alone products for the global construction industry such as advanced electronic controls and hydrostatic and mechanically driven axles. The first of a new powershuttle family, the PSR08 was designed for compact vehicles up to 89 kW (120 hp) and has prefilled forward and reverse clutches for improved shift quality and driver comfort. A specially designed lubrication system minimizes clutch drag for improved efficiency during shifting.
A 305-mm (12-in) torque converter with a freewheel allows for lower engine speeds, and a spring-applied oil-immersed park brake adds to increased brake life. The transmission will be available in two- and four-wheel drive, with helical gears designed to reduce noise levels. Full production of the PSR08 is planned for 2003.
- Jean L. Broge
Nimco Controls' load-sensing valve
 Nimco Controls' hydraulic load-sensing directional control valve can be used with both fixed and variable displacement pumps for load moving machinery and lifting equipment. |
A sectional valve that senses load has been added to Nimco Controls' CV range of hydraulic directional control valves for vehicles that lift and lower loads, such as earth-moving vehicles, forklifts, cranes, and aerial platforms. The CV 2000 LS is suitable for both fixed and variable displacement pumps and has a pressure capacity up to 35 MPa (5 ksi) while incorporating a flow compensation of 125 L/min (33 gal/min) at each working port.
Depending upon application, valve sections, which can incorporate both relief and cavitation functions, can also be equipped with or without compensation either individually or in combination with others. The valve functions continuously in the post-compensated mode, such as when the pump is saturated.
 As an option, the valve can be installed via a CAN-bus connection to one of Nimco's joystick controllers. Shown is the EPC-500. |
With flow-dependent pressure limiters on each of its sections, the CV 2000 LS can have its standby pressure reduced to as little as 400 kPa (58 psi). The valve has independent flow control for individual load, though it can unload flow and inlet pressure from the tank when working with a variable displacement pump. When controlling flow from a fixed displacement pump, system pressure may be reduced by redirecting flow via an on/off valve at the inlet section.
While in the standby position with the inlet section closed, pressure to the signal spool is adjusted to balance the load-sensing signal and spool spring. This design feature results in flow from the pump and signal spool returning to the tank, bypassing the main spool and work ports until a change in load is sensed from the machine. While the machine is being operated, valve pressure is compensated to ensure that it is equal to the requirements of the load. The pressure drop across the main spool is kept constant so that flow remains load independent. Headquartered in Malmoe, Sweden, Nimco has production, distribution, and research and development facilities in Sturtevant, WI.
- Jean L. Broge
