Tools of the Trade
Flow control
Thomas Magnete USA has introduced a new generation of electrohydraulic valve designs for active body control (ABC) systems. Developed as a precaution to counteract potentially dangerous forces exhibited during cornering, sophisticated ABC systems are controlled by a series of 13 sensors and two microprocessors. The principal operation of the proportional- flow control valve uses a design where directional control and balance of the downstream precision volumetric flows is maintained within milliseconds to balance out the levels in the suspension struts; thus, the body of the vehicle remains stable. The proportional-flow control valve operates in the tandem pumps used within the ABC systems.
Linear displacement sensor
The LD-50 noncontact linear displacement sensor from Power Components of Midwest, Inc. offers a sensing range of 12.7 to 762 mm (0.5 to 30 in) in an environmentally protected housing. The sensor uses Hall-effect technology and features a programmable noncontact analog or pulse width modulated output with open-circuit detection and short-circuit protection. It operates with a hermetically-sealed housing in temperatures ranging from -40 to +150°C (-40 to +302°F). The long-life sensor can be packaged in many custom or standard configurations, including various leads, housing, integral connectors, and range. It is suitable for agricultural, commercial, and industrial equipment and machinery.
Filter fittings
A catalog from Fluid Line Products, Inc. describes fittings that protect fuel lines, hydraulic components, and expensive control mechanisms for mobile hydraulic systems that operate in harsh and contaminated environments. The fittings, crafted from steel, stainless steel, brass, and aluminum, offer high vibration and shock resistance and were developed to optimize system design.
Destructible labels
Tailored Label Products' SecurGuard Destructible Label thermal transfer labels are suitable for tamper-proof labels. The high-bond adhesive system adheres to challenging surfaces including high- and low-surface-energy plastics and powder-coated metals. The labels are virtually impossible to remove in one piece from most surfaces, making them ideal for safety warning labels, warranty labels, and security and calibration seals.
Compact pump
Brueninghaus Hydromatik's A20VG is a compact, double pump for closed-loop applications. Two rotary groups of series A10V are positioned back-to-back and are connected with the users via a common port plate; the control devices and pressure relief valves are integrated in the port plate. This design enables an overall length reduction of 16% vs. conventional double pumps. Control of the pump is carried out via a proportional pressure-reduction valve in each positioning chamber driven by a microcontroller. A design with hydraulic directly controlled drive is also available.
