Oxford Instruments introduces two new handheld XRF analyzers

April 22, 2015
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Oxford Instruments, U.K., has added two new models to its X-Met8000 series of handheld XRF analyzers: the X-Met8000 Optimum and X-Met8000 Smart. They reportedly enable reliable, uninterrupted metals analysis for rapid alloy identification in power generation, manufacturing, scrap metal processing/recycling, and precious metals facilities. The two new models join the X-Met8000 Expert, which has been available since September 2014.

The X-Met8000 may be used for a full working day of 10 to 12 hours without changing the battery, maximizing uptime. Due to its ergonomic design, the X-Met8000 is perfectly balanced and lightweight at only 1.5 kg (3.3 lb).

The X-Met8000 range of analyzers has been designed to cover all analysis needs and budgets. The entry level Smart analyzer is ideal for routine, rapid testing of common alloys. The mid-range X-Met8000 Optimum model is optimized for high-speed sorting and analysis of alloys from aluminum to bronze to stainless steel, etc.

The top-of-the-range X-Met8000 Expert provides ultimate performance for the testing of the widest variety of alloys; with superior analysis of light elements (Mg, Al, Si, P and S), tramp, and trace elements.

All three models are fitted with a large-area SDD (silicon drift detector) and high performance X-ray tube, delivering exceptional speed and superior performance.

Clear functional icons on the large (11-cm/4.3-in.) integrated LCD touchscreen make the instrument simple and quick to use, even in direct sunlight and when the operator is wearing gloves. The flexible and easily customizable results screen means that only relevant information is displayed, ensuring the decision-making process is always optimized.

Designed with low cost of ownership in mind, all three models are manufactured with a rugged enclosure and are IP54 (equivalent to NEMA 3) compliant, meaning they can withstand the harshest working environments. The X-Met8000 Smart is fitted with a robust, thick Kapton window, and an optional shield is available for the X-Met8000 Optimum and X-Met8000 Expert, both preventing detector and X-ray tube damage when testing small components and sharp objects.

www.oxford-instruments.com/x-met8000

Timken opens gear drive manufacturing facility in Houston

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The Timken Co., North Canton, Ohio, has opened a new 27,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art gear drive manufacturing facility in Houston. An integral part of the Timken Power Systems group, the new plant will significantly improve production efficiencies in the manufacture of Philadelphia Gear brand high-speed drives. To meet growing demand, Timken Power Systems equipped the facility with two 5-axis machines that employ gear milling technology instead of the traditional hobbing process.

These machines can carry out up to six different operations for producing helical gears, shafts, and pinions from raw material, with the potential to reduce the OE production cycle by weeks.  

"The gear milling process, for example, can reduce pure machine time of a standard-sized gear from 110 hours to 25 hours," said Boyd Swearingen, general manager of the new facility, as well as Timken Power Systems' business in the Gulf Coast, Latin American and Middle East regions. The milled gear teeth are finish ground on a traditional Hofler form grinder to achieve the required AGMA 14 quality level of Philadelphia Gear drives. Before shipment, each gearbox then undergoes a full-speed no-load spin test that measures sound levels, temperatures and vibration. 

"This investment represents our commitment to meet the growing demands of our energy-market customers," said Carl Rapp, vice president of Timken Power Systems. "The new facility will be able to supply customers in the power generation, oil and gas, refining and pumping industries with reliable, high-speed gearboxes to keep their pumps, compressors and generators running in some of the most challenging operating environments in the world. While low oil prices represent a near-term challenge to the industry, we expect sales for our new high-speed gear drives to continue to grow over the coming years."

Mr. Swearingen noted that in addition to the state-of-the-art equipment, the Houston facility is unique for a gear shop and incorporates ergonomic safeguards in the assembly area. "It's a very clean plant, not what you typically think of as a gear shop," Swearingen said. "In addition to the machinery being totally enclosed and EPA-compliant, all the electrical and plumbing are buried within the foundation to remove hazards and enhance the aesthetics of the facility."

www.timken.com 

AFC-Holcroft to install UBQ batch furnace line at fastener manufacturer’s facility

August 4, 2014
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AFC-Holcroft, Wixom, Mich., is to install a complete UBQ (Universal Batch Quench) furnace line in one of Fastenal Company's plants in Winona, Minnesota. The order consists of a UBQ batch furnace sized 36-48-36, two UBT temper furnaces, a spray/dunk washer, a double-ended transfer car, and a 4500 cfh E-Z series endothermic gas generator. Fastenal is said to be North America's largest distributor of industrial and construction materials such as screws, bolts, and fasteners.

Fastenal requested customization to the stock equipment to meet its specific requirements. This is the first installation of heat treat equipment at Fastenal's Winona location. The equipment is expected to be delivered and installed in the third quarter 2014.

AFC-Holcroft is one of the world's largest manufacturers of heat treating furnaces. The legacy companies that comprise AFC-Holcroft have a combined 225+ years of thermal processing experience. The company manufactures turn-key heat treating systems for applications including commercial heat treating, bearings, automotive, aerospace, mining, military, aluminum heat treatment, gear manufacturing, fastener manufacturing, and alternative energy industries.

AFC-Holcroft, headquartered in the United States, has a global reach with direct sales coverage in North America and worldwide, while AFC-Holcroft Europe serves major industrial markets in Germany, France, and other European locations. AFC-Holcroft's Asian Operations manages partners in China, India, South Korea, and other countries in the region, and the company also extends into markets in Australia, Brazil, Mexico, Poland, Russia, and Spain, through relationships with partners, many of whom have manufacturing capability.