Factors to consider for precise thickness measurement using laser displacement sensors
If measurements from two non-contact laser displacement sensors are evaluated together, the thickness of an object can be determined. However, the accuracy of thickness measurements is determined by a number of important factors and not just linearity, writes Chris Jones, managing director at Micro-Epsilon UK.
New monitor/recorder for industrial condition monitoring now available from Ixthus

The recently announced Datawatch IX monitor/recorder from Metrix Instrument Co., the USA-based condition monitoring systems specialist, is available in the UK from Ixthus Instrumentation Ltd.
Manual transmission clutch system cuts fuel consumption

Precision bearing and automotive systems manufacturer Schaeffler has developed intelligent, automatic clutch solutions for previously purely mechanical or hydraulic clutch systems.
Meeting the skills challenge

By John Savage, director, the National Fluid Power Centre.
Adding up the cost of compressed air
By Gary Fuller, training & consulting programme manager, Festo.
Hydrotechnik launches new expanded range of pressure sensors for a multitude of industry applications

Hydrotechnik UK Ltd. Has launched its new expanded pressure sensor portfolio to meet the needs of a wide range of industries and applications, from low cost OEM production to high performance R&D and test. Made in Germany in partnership between Hydrotechnik & ADZ, the new product line offers an extensive choice of cost effective proven solutions for markets ranging from industrial machinery, process and environmental systems to automotive, rail and aerospace.
Whisper-quiet micro control valve

Bürkert Fluid Control Systems has launched the latest addition to its micro fluidics range, the Type 6712 WhisperValve. It features a plunger type design with media separation that measures only 7mm wide, and has a switching time of less than 5 milliseconds.
Efficiency by design
As technology advances it is critical that the design, manufacture and testing of parts and components is undertaken in an increasingly meticulous manner. For example, in such high-cost and mission-critical sectors as aerospace and automotive it is important that the equipment functions efficiently during long cycles of operation – often under extremely high pressures. It is therefore imperative that this equipment offers the highest levels of reliability and efficiency. After all, if a part or component fails in an aircraft or vehicle there is a chain of potentially serious repercussions to consider; not least of which being the safety of people on-board.
Improved condition monitoring ahoy
SKF’s condition monitoring solutions will help Tsakos Columbia Shipmanagement SA in preventing unexpected equipment failures and cut costs across its fleet of 70 ships.
Cost-effective and space-saving sensor

Variohm EuroSensor has launched a compact sensor for the simultaneous measurement of gas and liquid pressure up to 25 bar and temperatures up to 150degC. Space-saving and cost-effective, two important measurements can now be monitored using a single port.
Computer simulation engineering takes time and cost out of component development
At Fakuma 2015, DuPont Performance Polymers (DPP) showed how close its advanced anisotropic CAE modelling capabilities can predict the performance of automotive parts with a series of engine brackets made of DuPont Zytel polyamide resin. The structural engine brackets or mounts, which stabilise and align the engine, were developed in close collaboration with ElringKlinger and Daimler AG on an accelerated timeline, enabling a shorter development cycle compared to standard die-cast aluminium, and reduced cost.
Software solutions for panel builders
Panel builders and system integrators operate in an exceedingly tough competitive market, which means that reducing time spent on designs and excluding errors and reworks – in other words, keeping costs down – is of paramount importance. Ken Christie, director at Eplan UK, offers a comprehensive guide on how to select software solutions that make it easier to meet this challenge.
New family of rotary position sensors

The Industrial division of Curtiss-Wright Corporation has launched a new family of non-contact, rotary position sensors from the legacy brand of Penny & Giles. With a low-profile sensor body design and a small footprint, these fully-encapsulated, IP69K-rated sensors offer exceptional performance against water, dust, shock, vibration, and temperature. The NRH271 and NRH272 rotary position sensors are ideal for use by OEMs of on- and off-highway vehicles that are destined for use in challenging environments, and as a cost-effective solution for medium volume applications where a wide range of options or degree of customisation may be required.
Toolless connection of multiple connectors

The Multiline Adaptive from Eisele is claimed to set high standards for tool changing and prototype construction. Its compatible modular design also allows flexible integration of different diameters, connection types and media in one multiple connector.
Free student simulation software from Ansys
Ansys Student is a free, introductory academic software package for students interested in learning the fundamentals of simulation while gaining exposure to the state-of-the-art Ansys simulation workflows, pre-processing, post-processing and solver solutions. Students can tackle a broad scope of mechanics and fluids simulations, from fundamental tutorial level models to complex real-world scale models.
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