White Papers

Checking voltage frequency ratio on variable speed drives with the new Fluke 2-channel ScopeMeter®190 Series II portable oscilloscope

With their unique triggering and measuring functions, Fluke ScopeMeter 190 Series II portable oscilloscopes are ideal for analyzing the voltage-frequency ratio of pulse-width-modulated variable speed drives.

Variable Speed Drives

Variable Speed Drives (VSDs) provide a convenient and affordable method for varying the speed of robust ac motors. When connected to the mains, the rotation speed of an ac motor is directly related to the mains frequency and the number of poles of the motor. Traditionally an external gearbox was the only way to work with different speeds. This all changed with the introduction of high-power semiconductors, which made it possible to build variable speed drives by electronically creating a supply voltage that operates at different frequencies. This has, however, created the need for new measurement capabilities, which are provided by the Fluke 190 Series II portable oscilloscope.

Pulse Width Modulation

AC drives using Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) have found their way into many applications such as fans, pumps and conveyor belts driven by squirrel- cage asynchronous ac motors. These motors are robust and require little maintenance since they have no brushes that would need regular replacement.

The basic structure of a variable speed drive includes an input rectifier converting

the mains voltage into a dc voltage that feeds the so called dc-bus. This dc voltage is then converted into a ‘variable frequency voltage’ using electronic switches. Since the speed of the motor can be adjusted with a simple potentiometer or control signal from an external source, these drives have become a popular replacement for gearboxes.

The Motor

AC motors are designed for use with a rotating magnetic field of constant strength. The magnetic field is generated from the applied voltage, and its strength is proportional to the V/Hz ratio. Normally the motor is designed to work with the local mains voltage (230 V/400 V or 120 V /208 V) and mains frequency (50 Hz or 60 Hz). The nominal values are shown on the motor type plate When the motor is connected to a VSD, the drive unit changes the frequency of the output voltage, thereby changing the speed of the rotating magnetic field and thus the speed of the motor.

Click here to download Fluke's White Paper.

Wireless Test Tools Can Cut Troubleshooting Time

By: Fluke Corporation

The automation of more and more processes and operations in today’s factories and commercial buildings is helping to reduce energy consumption and increase safety and productivity as never before. However, automation has also added a large dose ofcomplexity for the technicians who maintain and troubleshoot the systems. Click here to learn how Fluke's CNX 3000 Wireless system can help. 

Gates Fluid Power Systems eBook

By: Gates Corporation

As tools and technologies advance, modern fluid power systems are under greater pressure than ever to perform safely and precisely. Download this four-chapter Gates Fluid Power eBook to learn about innovative whole-system approaches to component selection and assembly, testing, safety measures, diagnostics and monitoring.

Chapter 1: Innovative Solutions for Hydraulic System Challenges

Building a hydraulic system with matching components is vital to optimizing productivity. Read about a whole-system approach to ensuring the proper components are selected and correctly installed, and learn about solutions available for common hydraulic system issues.

Chapter 2: Successful Product Testing Through New Technologies & Collaboration

Learn about Gates sophisticated testing and improvement process for hydraulic hose systems. Gates continually refines the testing process for new and existing equipment, ensuring that all our products meet or exceed industry requirements.

Chapter 3: Maintaining a Safe Working Environment

Learn how take a proactive, whole-system approach to your safety and maintenance programs. Read tips on how to identify component weaknesses before system failure for a safe, efficient working environment.

Chapter 4: Advancements in Hose Monitoring, Diagnostics and Identification Practices

For years, mobile equipment operators and fleet managers relied on basic identification processes to monitor hose life. But with new technology like Gates Sentry™ Services, you now can estimate the life of a hose and get a text or email alert when there’s a problem—before the hose fails.

Download the eBook

GATES FEATURES GUIDE: SYNCHRONOUS BELTS

By: Gates Corporation

Over the past 60 years, Gates has pushed the limits of synchronous belt technology by advancing research into new compounds, additives, blending processes, jackets, tensile cord materials, and tooth profiles for superior belts. Download a guide to Gates line of synchronous belts that will enhance your understanding of the product line and what stands behind it.

• Belt Anatomy 101: Learn the standard components of a Gates synchronous belt.
• Tooth Profiles: Read a description and profile details for each Gates synchronous belt type.
• Body Compounds and Jacketing Material: Gates belt materials are designed to meet specific needs for various applications.
• Tensile cords: Learn the advantage and disadvantages of each material used for tensile cords, the muscle of a synchronous belt.
• Alignment and tensioning: Understand how to achieve proper alignment and tensioning; minimize wear, noise and belt failure.
• Sprockets and made-to-order metals: Belt and sprockets must work harmoniously to deliver a high-performance belt-drive system; we can create custom sprockets for any application.

Gates synchronous belt drive systems are highly engineered products manufactured with exacting precision. From design to manufacturing, learn how Gates continues to lead the way in the application of synchronous belt technology.

Download the Guide

The Most Important Things You Need To Know About The Stimulus Package

By: ITT Corporation

On February 17, President Obama signed into law The American Economic Recovery and Investment Act to stimulate the economy through an injection of $787 billion in federal spending. This will include more than $60 billion to support shovel-ready traditional and "green technology" water, wastewater and energy infrastructure needs at the state and local level. To qualify for funding, federal, state and local governments must commit to and start construction of these projects over the next 12 months.

In response to the Stimulus Package, ITT Corporation has published a White Paper, The Most Important Things You Need To Know About The Stimulus Package. This important document will help you discover who implements these programs and delivers project assistance and how ITT can support a company's projects and expedite the implementation of its infrastructure priorities over the upcoming critical months.

To download this free White Paper, visit the Bell & Gossett Website and click on "STIMULUS PACKAGE OPPORTUNITIES."

12 Things To Know Before You Buy An Infrared Camera

By: Flir Systems

What features are must-haves?
Which features will you wish you bought if you don't?
What are the price vs. functionality trade-offs?
Why is thermal sensitivity critical?

A little bit of homework now can save you a lot of headaches down the road. Not to mention time and money. Download 12 Things to Know Before You Buy an Infrared Camera today!

To download this FREE white paper, click here.