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Efficiency

VIDEO | 2024-06-03

DMG Mori: 3-Axis vs. 5-Axis Machining

DMG Mori highlights the advantages of 5-axis in order to increase efficiency and precision. This includes avoiding chip nests, reducing clamping positions as well as throughput times by changing from 3-axis to 5-axis machining.  

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2024-03-26

KISSsoft New Release Available in April

The new KISSsoft release 2024 is coming soon! This April will bring you the new system module KISSdesign, accelerating the calculation of complex drive trains and replacing the previous KISSsys software.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2024-02-13

FVA-Workbench Version 9 Redefines Gearbox Design

With the release of version 9, the FVA-Workbench once again sets new standards in gearbox design, enabling the seamless integration of the latest research results into industrial practice. As a groundbreaking interface between collective research and application, the FVA-Workbench accelerates development and innovation in drive technology. This new release is more powerful than ever, with innovative features for flexible load spectra and improvements in FEM components and shaft-hub connections.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-10-25

GWJ Technology Celebrates 20 Years of eAssistant Software

A good 20 years have passed since the web-based calculation software eAssistant saw the light of day in the digital world. The software is probably the oldest commercial online solution for the design, recalculation and optimization of machine elements such as shafts, bearings, shaft-hub connections, gears, bolted joints, springs, etc. The calculations are based on internationally accepted standards and guidelines as well as technical literature.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-10-03

KISSsoft Offers Plastics for the Calculation for Cylindrical and Crossed Axis Helical Gears

In KISSsoft, 97 (yes, ninety-seven!) plastics are available for calculation of cylindrical and crossed axis helical gears. The materials range from unreinforced POMs and PAs to high performance reinforced and internally lubricated materials. 

EVENT | 2023-09-15

Southtec 2023

Southtec 2023 draws manufacturing suppliers, distributors and equipment builders from across North America and around the world – bringing them together in Greenville, South Carolina. With hundreds of exhibiting companies, attendees can find all the latest technologies and services – plus the experts who build them – ready to demonstrate solutions that can help them grow their business. Visitors can make side-by-side comparisons, discover integrated equipment, hear about industry trends and forecasts, and leverage their purchasing power. 

EVENT | 2023-09-15

Aachen Forum on Gear Production

In this seminar, attendees will learn about gearing, electromobility and their interrelationships. How gearing can increase the efficiency and performance of electromobility, and which components are needed for this. Also, a detailed look at the design and manufacture of gears for electric vehicles. Attendees will explore the challenges of gearing for electromobility, such as adapting to hard-to-reach places, increasing durability, and reducing energy consumption, and discuss how grinding technology and tool design must meet requirements to improve the properties and improve the quality of gears for electric vehicles. The Aachen Forum on Gear Production (AFGP) is held annually in alternation with the Aachen Conference on Gear Production (ACGP). While the Forum at the RWTH Aachen Campus is dedicated to a technical focus (2023 the interlocking in the E-Mobility sector) the conference, on the other hand, is dedicated to various facets of gear technology.

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INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-04-27

KISSsoft Offers FKM Shaft Strength Calculation

In the KISSsoft shaft calculation, the proof of fatigue strength can be performed by generating an equivalent stress verification according to the FKM Guideline.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2023-04-06

KISSsoft Expands Fine Sizing Capabilities with Release 2023

In an urgent assignment, a gear has to be designed, with the engineer already knowing the required reduction ratio, torque and speed. On the manufacturing side, the preferred materials, possible qualities and the reference profiles are specified. This initial situation represents an everyday task.

PRODUCT NEWS | 2023-03-24

KISSsoft Release 2023 Available in April

The new KISSsoft release 2023 comes with numerous novelties. Among others, Gear Mesh Frequencies (GMF) can now be calculated for cylindrical and bevel gears. GMF results are visualized in two different diagrams, i.e. GMF versus rotational frequency of the reference gear, and GMF versus amplitude.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-12-27

AGMA FTM Papers Deadline is Approaching

Those who wish to make submissions for the 2023 AGMA Fall Technical Meeting (FTM) have until January 13, 2023. Late submissions will not be accepted.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-10-10

GWJ Technology Extends Involute Gear Output Options

GWJ Technology GmbH has extended the output option of tooth forms of involute gears. GWJ has extended the output of tooth forms in 2D DXF format in its calculation modules single cylindrical gears, cylindrical gear pairs, planetary gear trains, three- and four-gear train systems, gear racks and involute splines as part of the new versions of its calculation solutions eAssistant and TBK.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-08-09

Liebherr Mining Expands in Australia

Liebherr-Australia has announced the expansion of their Perth mining facility, which will strengthen the company’s ability to deliver accelerated zero emission solutions to the wider market. Liebherr-Australia’s growing involvement in the development and implementation of zero emission technology with Australian customers illustrates the necessity for this investment in infrastructure and signifies Liebherr’s commitment to these industry-leading projects.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-08-04

Global Shop Solutions Celebrates Michelle Brown’s Anniversary

Workforce stability, consistency, and reliability are the hallmarks of an excellent ERP software provider. Global Shop Solutions, a leading provider of ERP software for manufacturers in nearly 30 industries, is proud to celebrate 10 years of dedicated service from Michelle Brown, Project Manager for the company’s U.K. office.

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INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-07-21

Milton CAT Tonawanda Hosts Successful Open House

To celebrate the opening of the Tonawanda facility, Milton CAT recently hosted an open house on June 17-18. Event activities included meeting the team, tours, machine and technology demonstrations, capability information stations, red tag specials, a Global Operator Challenge, and refreshments.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-07-11

MESYS Software Version 06/2022 is Available

A new version of the MESYS shaft and rolling bearing analysis software including new functionality is available. The bearing analysis software allows the calculation of the load distribution within the bearing and bearing life according to ISO/TS 16281 and it is integrated in a shaft system calculation with additional possibilities like modal analysis, strength calculation for shafts and interfaces to gear calculations. Currently the software is used by customers in 30 countries on four continents.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-07-08

SMT Announces North America User Forum

2022 marks the 20th Anniversary of SMT’s focus on providing the tools and knowledge to drive engineering innovation in gearbox system analysis. With this historic company anniversary, the company has announced the return of the North America User Forum.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-06-28

Siemens Digital Industries Software Releases Latest Version of NX

Siemens Digital Industries Software recently announced that the latest release of Siemens’ NX software brings greater electronic co-design, collaboration, and intelligence capture and reuse capability. These empower engineering executives across every industry to find productivity improvements and greater efficiencies in their engineering departments.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-06-17

Milton CAT Opens New York Location

Milton CAT, the Northeast’s Caterpillar (CAT) equipment dealer, has opened its 13th location, a 40,000 sq. ft. purpose-built, Tonawanda, NY, facility. Every feature of the facility is in place to improve safety and efficiency so Milton CAT can support western New York equipment owners with machine sales, machine service, CAT parts, CAT work tools, hydraulic hose repair, and Trimble technology from SITECH Northeast.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-06-13

Wintriss Offers OEE/Data Collection Software at IMTS 2022

Wintriss Controls Group has announced it will be demonstrating new, advanced features in its ShopFloorConnect OEE and Data Collection Software at IMTS Booth #135073 located in the East Building, Level 3, in McCormick Place, Chicago IL from Sept 12- 17, 2022.

EVENT | 2022-06-01

Addit3D

Addit3D-International Additive Manufacturing and 3D Fair (Barakaldo, Spain) will feature almost 230 products, services and innovations. Exhibitors include advanced systems and machinery and 3D printing, equipment and printers, industrial applications, raw materials, consumables, 3D printing services, software, 3D scanners, and R&D and training

FEATURE ARTICLES | 2022-05-19

The Numbers Game

Tool-X is a nanofluid that changes the characteristics of existing metalworking fluids by ‘manipulating’ speeds, feeds and metal removal rates using nanotechnology. The science behind Tool-X can potentially change metal cutting dynamics, improve surface finishes and extend tool life. The backstory of this technology is just as fascinating as its production results.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-05-13

SEGULA Technologies and Senseye Partner on IIoT Solutions

SEGULA Technologies and British scale up Senseye, specialized in predictive maintenance based on artificial intelligence, have announced the signing of a partnership.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-05-12

SMT Offers Training Workshop on Improving MASTA Model Fidelity

SMT's May workshops aim to give attendees the tips and tricks needed to further improve the fidelity of the MASTA model. In this workshop, SMT engineers will go through some of the tools available including:

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-04-29

Verisurf Debuts 2023 Release at Control

Verisurf Software, Inc. will be demonstrating Verisurf 2023 at Control, Stuttgart, Germany, May 3 -6, Hall 3, Stand 3312. Verisurf 2023 continues to refine metrology workflows with added features designed to reduce time and improve the efficiency of automated quality inspection and reporting, scanning, reverse engineering, and tool building.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-04-28

SMT Webinar Examines Software Tips and Tricks

SMT's latest webinar "MASTA Support - Tips, Tricks and FAQ" will take place May 4, 2022. The SMT customer support team receive queries covering all areas of MASTA, with industry 'hot topics' inevitably arising. In this webinar, SMT engineers focus on answering some of the queries that frequently make it into their support inbox. 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-04-25

Gleason Presents Sub-Micron Gear Inspection at Control 2022

With its brand-new 300GMS nano Gear Metrology System, Gleason presents a world- first at Control Show 2022, May 03-06, Stuttgart, Germany. The capability of measuring gears at sub-micron level, executing advanced waviness analysis and evaluating gear noise using the most advanced analytical tools, make the 300GMS nano ideally suited to support automotive e-drive production with minimum noise requirements. 

PRODUCT NEWS | 2022-04-21

KUKA Highlights End-to-End Automation Solutions at Automate 2022

At Automate 2022, attendees will have the opportunity to experience how complete, end-to-end automation solutions from KUKA Robotics can help them exceed their production goals.

INDUSTRY NEWS | 2022-04-18

Hexagon Releases E-Mobility Report

Hexagon’s Manufacturing Intelligence has released a comprehensive report entitled "Recharging the Automotive Market." The body of work was produced by Hexagon and draws from the original research conducted with Wards Intelligence and Informa Tech Automotive Group (ITAG).

FEATURE ARTICLES | 2017-07-01

You Cannot Rely on Labor Efficiency Reporting

In manufacturing, we all know that tracking statistics on your operation is essential for understanding how you're doing, as well as identifying areas for improvement. But what does the efficiency metric actually tell you?
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2016-06-01

Worm Gear Efficiency Estimation and Optimization

This paper outlines the comparison of efficiencies for worm gearboxes with a center distance ranging from 28 - 150 mm that have single reduction from 5 to 100:1. Efficiencies are calculated using several standards (AGMA, ISO, DIN, BS) or by methods defined in other bibliographic references. It also deals with the measurement of torque and temperature on a test rig — required for the calibration of an analytical model to predict worm gearbox efficiency and temperature. And finally, there are examples of experimental activity (wear and friction measurements on a blockon- ring tribometer and the measurements of dynamic viscosity) regarding the effort of improving the efficiency for worm gear drivers by adding nanoparticles of fullerene shape to standard PEG lubricant
PUBLISHER'S PAGE | 2014-09-01

Cracking the WIP

Over the past few months I've talked with several different gear manufacturers who are in the process of upgrading their gear making equipment with modern CNC machine tools. Each of these manufacturers has come to the realization that in order to stay competitive, he needs to streamline operations and become more efficient...
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2014-09-01

Less Energy Consumption with High-Efficiency Bevel Gears and their Usage in the U.S.

The efficiency of a gearbox is the output energy divided by the input energy. It depends on a variety of factors. If the complete gearbox assembly in its operating environment is observed, then the following efficiency influencing factors have to be considered
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2013-05-01

Light Weight Assembled Gears - A Green Design Solution

It is widely recognized that the reduction of CO2 requires consistent light-weight design of the entire vehicle. Likewise, the trend towards electric cars requires light-weight design to compensate for the additional weight of battery systems. The need for weight reduction is also present regarding vehicle transmissions. Besides the design of the gearbox housing, rotating masses such as gear wheels and shafts have a significant impact on fuel consumption. The current technology shows little potential of gear weight reduction due to the trade-off between mass optimization and the manufacturing process. Gears are usually forged followed or not by teeth cutting operation.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2012-09-01

How Bearing Design Improves Gearbox Performance

Gearbox performance, reliability, total cost of ownership (energy cost), overall impact on the environment, and anticipation of additional future regulations are top-of-mind issues in the industry. Optimization of the bearing set can significantly improve gearbox performance.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2012-09-01

How to Minimize Power Losses in Transmissions, Axles and Steering Systems

By increasing the number of gears and the transmission-ratio spread, the engine will run with better fuel efficiency and without loss of driving dynamics. Transmission efficiency itself can be improved by: using fuelefficient transmission oil; optimizing the lubrication systems and pumps; improving shifting strategies and optimizing gearings; and optimizing bearings and seals/gaskets.
VOICES | 2012-06-01

Letters to the Editor

A response to last issue's "Ask the Expert" feature on efficiency of hypoid gearing.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2012-05-01

Ask the Expert: High Ratio Hypoid Gear Efficiency

Our question this issue deals with high-ratio hypoid gears, and it should be noted here that this is a tricky area of gearing with a dearth of literature on the topic. That being the case, finding “experts” willing to stick their necks out and take on the subject was not a given.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2011-06-01

Wind Turbines: Clean Energy, but Energy Efficient

We talked energy efficiency with some major players in the lubricants industry— but with a focus on their products’ impact regarding energy efficiency of gears and gearboxes in wind turbines.
FEATURE ARTICLES | 2011-05-01

Worm Gears - Higher Energy Efficiency and Less Strain on Resources

A very direct and effective way of increasing power transmission efficiency is a changeover from mineral-oil-based lubricants to synthetic lubricants.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2010-08-01

Optimizing Gear Geometry for Minimum Transmission Error, Mesh Friction Losses and Scuffing Risk Through Computer- Aided Engineering

Minimizing gear losses caused by churning, windage and mesh friction is important if plant operating costs and environmental impact are to be minimized. This paper concentrates on mesh friction losses and associated scuffing risk. It describes the preliminary results from using a validated, 3-D Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and Tooth Contact Analysis (TCA) program to optimize cylindrical gears for low friction losses without compromising transmission error (TE), noise and power density. Some case studies and generic procedures for minimizing losses are presented. Future development and further validation work is discussed.
VOICES | 2009-11-01

Green Heat Treating - No Sweat

Bob McCulley of Comprehensive Heat Treat Specialists describes how even the most energy intensive industrial processes can be made "green."
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2009-01-01

The Capacity of Superfinished Vehicle Components to Increase Fuel Economy, Part I

This paper will present data from both laboratory and field testing demonstrating that superfinished components exhibit lower friction, operating temperature, wear and/ or higher horsepower, all of which translate directly into increased fuel economy.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2007-06-01

Low Loss Gears

In most transmission systems, one of the main power loss sources is the loaded gear mesh. In this article, the influences of gear geometry parameters on gear efficiency, load capacity, and excitation are shown.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 2001-05-01

Load Distribution in Planetary Gears

Two-shaft planetary gear drives are power-branching transmissions, which lead the power from input to output shaft on several parallel ways. A part of the power is transferred loss-free as clutch power. That results in high efficiency and high power density. Those advantages can be used optimally only if an even distribution of load on the individual branches of power is ensured. Static over-constraint, manufacturing deviations and the internal dynamics of those transmission gears obstruct the load balance. With the help of complex simulation programs, it is possible today to predict the dynamic behavior of such gears. The results of those investigations consolidate the approximation equations for the calculation of the load factors...
PUBLISHER'S PAGE | 1990-07-01

Of Trees, Whales & Practicality

One of the hot items on the public agenda these days is "The Environment." Suddenly everyone wants to save the whales and the rain forest. Politicians, rock stars, and big business have all discovered that you can't get anything but good press for saying that you're in favor of trees and marine mammals.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 1986-07-01

Mechanical Efficiency of Diffential Gearing

Mechanical efficiency is an important index of gearing, especially for epicyclic gearing. Because of its compact size, light weight, the capability of a high speed ratio, and the ability to provide differential action, epicyclic gearing is very versatile, and its use is increasing. However, attention should be paid to efficiency not only to save energy, but sometimes also to make the transmission run smoothly or to avoid a self-locking condition.
TECHNICAL ARTICLES | 1985-01-01

The Effect of Lubricant Traction On Wormgear Efficiency

The effect of various lubricant factors on wormgear efficiency has been evaluated using a variety of gear types and conditions. In particular, the significant efficiency improvements afforded by certain types of synthetic lubricants have been investigated to determine the cause of these improvements. This paper describes broad wormgear testing, both in the laboratory and in service, and describes the extent to which efficiency can be affected by changes in the lubricant; the effects of viscosity, viscosity index improvers and, finally, synthetic lubricants are discussed. The work concludes that lubricant tractional properties can play a significant role in determining gear efficiency characteristics.
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