Tools of the Trade
February 2002
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Noncontact position sensor
Gill Instruments' noncontact position sensor was selected by JCB for use on its four-wheel-drive Teletruk forklifts. Suitable for applications such as control pedals, levers, actuators, and vehicle transmission position sensing, the rugged sensor was designed primarily for the automotive, agriculture, construction, materials handling, and marine markets. The sensors are powered from any voltage source between 5 and 30 V dc, feature a choice of analog voltage or current outputs, and have no moving parts to wear out.
PWM converters
PWM converters from Axiomatic Technologies Corp. convert pulse width modulated (PWM) signals into analog signals for mobile equipment, industrial automation, and power generation applications. An example is the conversion of PWM signals from a speed control system to the specific current input required by a governor on a diesel engine. Digital PWM signals are converted either into current or from current. PWM-to-voltage converters are also available. The converters accepting PWM input are fully isolated, and various PWM ranges within 0-100% can be accommodated. The units are operational from -40 to +85°C (-40 to +185°F) and are encapsulated or conformally coated for rugged environments.
Digital sieve shaker
The Octagon Digital Sieve Shaker from CSC Scientific Company, Inc. provides precise particle-size analysis within safe and acceptable sound limits for laboratory or on-site use. The digital controls allow users to set the Octagon accurately for precise sieving results; results obtained from a user's current shaker can be duplicated. The unit is powered by an electromagnetic drive that has no rotating parts, eliminating maintenance and virtually all noise. Rapid vertical movement from the power unit prevents sieve apertures from blinding. The clamping system allows 76- or 200-mm (3- or 8-in) sieve stacks to be changed quickly.
Modular canister vacuum
EDCO's VAC-160 modular canister vacuum is lightweight and portable. The 22.7-L (6-gal) capacity vacuum is suitable for fine dust removal; a three-tiered filtration system removes over 99% of airborne dust. The vacuum has a mechanical shakedown system and gives 2413 mm (95 in) of water lift. The unit's electric 120-V dual motor with 5100 L/min (180 ft3/min) is strong enough to work with any of the firm's grinders, scarifiers, and saws and only requires a 15-A breaker (normal household outlet) to operate. The device is mounted on a hand truck and comes with a 635- x 51-mm (25- x 2-in) hose and a 1016-mm (40-in) electrical cord. Optional accessories include a stainless-steel clean-up wand tool and an adapter for 76-mm (3-in) vacuum ports for a 51-m (2-in) hose.
Total systems engineering
Grasan offers total engineering and design services for recycling, processing, and material-handling systems. The firm has experience in equipment and systems for recycling concrete/asphalt rubble and demolition debris; recycling glass; aggregate crushing, storage, and handling; screening, washing, and processing; conveying and stacking; and numerous special applications in bulk material handling and processing in mining, steel, and other industries. Included are road-portable, pit-portable, and stationary systems designed to function as independent facilities or to interface with existing operations. Controls range from manual to fully automated, computerized types.
