Tools of the Trade
Cylindrical connectors
A commercial series of rugged and environmental 38999-type connectors from Amphenol Industrial Operations provides an economical interconnect solution for a variety of harsh environmental applications including power, signal, RF, and fiber optics. The AMPHE-LITE Series is inter-mountable with the firm's Mil Spec 38999 connector. Key design features include a positive shell-to-shell coupling design, grounding fingers, and electroless nickel plating to provide superior EMI shielding capability. Acme threads ensure coupling durability, and blunting of the thread on both the coupling nut and receptacle eliminates cross coupling.
Over-voltage protectors
The TISP4xxxLM series from Bourns, Inc. is a range of telecom over-voltage protectors in modified TO-92 packaging aimed at cost-sensitive through-hole applications. The chip is available in 100 A, 50 A, and 35 A 10/1000 versions. Each current rating is available in up to 17 different protection voltages between 70 and 400 V. Low capacitance values, high holding current, and low off-state current combine to make the series a flexible protection solution whether used individually for two-wire devices such as telephones and modems or in combination for multi-point protection.
Deep-drawn copper terminals
Heavy-duty, deep-drawn copper terminals and connectors from Tyco Electronics are made from flat copper strip and are drawn into a seamless terminal or connector. They provide ruggedness in extreme conditions and are often used in automotive as well as industrial applications and welding, off-road, and farm equipment. Six basic product types are available, including plain type, a site hole version, a bent type, a recessed pad type, an expanded pad type, and an insulated splice. The terminals also provide deformation control during the crimping process.
Polly ball valves
Bee Valve Inc.'s polypropylene ball valves provide efficient fluid control of water-based fluids, oil-based fluids, chemicals, and certain acidic fluids. Available in 13- to 76-mm (0.5- to 3-in) full port and 25- to 76-mm (1- to 3-in) standard port sizes, the valves offer stability, strength, and toughness. Other features include a self-aligning ball and a handle that opens and closes easily.
Low-profile seat
H.O. Bostrom's LX-175 is a low-profile suspension seat with a patented, overlapping scissor design that offers a full-floating suspension at seat-index point of 173-mm (6.8-in) mid-ride. The heavy-duty, torsion bar suspension is adjustable to provide a level ride to operators with a mass from 50 to 145 kg (110 to 320 lb). A wide base provides enhanced stability and durability. Optional features include fixed or reclining/fold forward back, retractable or non-retractable seatbelts, and hip restraints.
