Tools of the Trade
Circular connectors
ITT Industries, Cannon's MIL-C-5015-style CA A&B circular connectors feature fixed machined electrical contacts, which reduce assembly time and cost. The connectors are available in corrosion-resistant green zinc plating or black zinc. They have high-strength aluminum alloy connector bodies and plastic insulators that resist chipping. The connectors are suited for applications such as process equipment, industrial controls, machine tools and molding, welding equipment, factory automation, servomotors, and air-conditioning systems.
Low-pressure sensor
The Model 82 UltraStable pressure sensor from IC Sensors provides high-performance measurement in low-pressure applications. Designed for o-ring flush mounting, the unit is a 19-mm (0.75-in), media-compatible, piezoresistive silicon pressure sensor packaged in a 316L, stainless-steel housing. The sensor uses silicone oil to transfer pressure from the diaphragm to the sensing element and features a ceramic substrate containing laser-trimmed resistors for temperature compensation and offset correction.
Fittings
Nylon and polypropylene pipe, hose, and nozzle fittings are available from Bee Valve Inc. in sizes ranging from 3.2 to 50 mm (1/8 to 2 in). Configurations include thread-to-thread, barb-to-thread, and barb-to-barb. Both nylon and polypropylene fittings are generally acceptable for working pressures up to 1034 kPa (150 psi) at normal room temperatures. At very low pressures, temperatures of the nylon fittings can approach 79°C (175°F) without strength degradation. At high temperatures, the recommended working pressure of a polypropylene fitting decreases.
Directional control valves
Denison Hydraulics' brochure called "Innovative Solutions for Demanding Applications" describes how the A4D Series of directional control valves meet demanding industrial requirements. Along with application examples, the brochure describes features, flow capacity, multiple fluid capability, and multiple control options through narrative, bullet point lists, graphs, and a valve cutaway.
Flowmeters
Hedland flowmeters for hydraulic systems using petroleum fluids include Code 61 and Code 62 four-bolt flange installations. The flanged flowmeters are commonly used to monitor the efficiency of power units of hydraulic systems of automotive transfer systems, plastic injection-molding machines, and metal forming machines. The meters continuously monitor flow conditions to prevent catastrophic system failure and to guide preventative maintenance programs. New port sizes available include 38 and 76 mm (1.5 and 3 in) for Code 62 and Code 61 flanges, respectively.
