Tools of the Trade
Air ride suspension
Tuthill Transport Technologies' ReycoGranning 79AR drive axle air ride suspension offers GAWR of 7700 to 10,400 kg (17,000 to 23,000 lb) per axle. The system was designed for vocational trucks with single drive axles. It can be adapted to any truck with standard-dimension frame rails. The 79AR was created from an existing steel spring suspension—the ReycoGranning 79KB—and incorporates existing hangers, axle connections, torque arms, bushings, and hardware. All components are manufactured in a quality-controlled ISO 9001 environment following lean manufacturing principles.
Motorized compact spindles
SETCO Sales Co.'s high-efficiency, high-torque Motorized Compact Spindles (MCS) are suited for precision finishing, drilling, and milling applications. Available in three standard models—MCS-1, MCS-1HS, and MCS-2—the spindles deliver a combination of speed and power to support precision machining and supply balanced power and torque. The MCS-1 delivers up to 5.5 N•m (4 lb•ft) and 2.3 kW (3.1 hp) at 5000 rpm. The high-speed model, MCS-1HS, delivers 2.6 N•m (2 lb•ft) torque and 6 kW (8 hp) at 12,000 rpm. For heavy-duty applications, the MCS-2 provides up to 12.2 N•m (9 lb•ft) and 6 kW (8 hp) at 5000 rpm. The spindles are standard equipped with grease lubricated bearings, permanent magnet dc brushless motor, liquid motor cooling ports, independent variable speed control, and the AirShield sealing system for nose end bearings.
Rapid manufacturing
Graphicast's ZA-12 casting process is used for the manufacture of high-precision flat frames and bases for electromechanical/electro-optical equipment. The process, which uses permanent graphite molds to produce parts from ZA-12, a zinc-aluminum alloy, is an economical alternative to die casting, investment casting, sand casting with machining, and CNC machining of complete parts. The alloy has approximately the same density as cast iron, but it is harder, stronger, and better wearing than aluminum or bronze.
Battery discharge indicator
The Series PT28 battery discharge indicator from ENM Co. is a 10-bar LED indicator that displays the state of charge on any battery. Applications include all types of electric-powered vehicles. The compact, low-cost device is available for several voltages and is capable of operating in a temperature range of -10 to +65°C (-22 to +150°F).
Knock meter
A knock meter kit from Livorsi Marine Inc. monitors high-performance engines. The kit combines improved knock (detonation) detection with the special modifications needed for fuel injected, carbureted, or super-charged engines and provides improved performance for engines with over 8 L of displacement.
