Schuler Installs Gearbox Production Line For ZF

Schuler has installed a new production line for ZF, on which the transmission specialist manufactures various parts for its eight-speed automatic gearbox. The automated line consists of a hydraulic cutting press supplied by Schuler with a cutting force of 3150kN (315tonf), as well as a mechanical knuckle-joint press from Grabener Pressensysteme, a Schuler subsidiary.

The latter offers a press force of 12MN (1200tonf). It also includes a coil line, supplied by Schuler Automation, for maximum coil widths of 650mm and maximum coil thicknesses of 6mm, as well as an integrated 3D transfer system. The two presses are linked by a shuttle system. Tools are changed with the aid of a corresponding cart at two set-up facilities. The performance of the machines was a key factor for ZF in awarding the contract to Schuler.

ZF's bid specification included the production of enclosure plates, connecting plates, disk drivers, cover plates and various clutch parts. Important for all parts is their near-net-shape production. In addition to Grabener Pressensysteme as the general contractor, the project involved Schuler Hydrap, Schuler Automation in Hessdorf and Schuler's manufacturing facility in Erfurt.

Gearbox Range Extended

Following last year's distribution agreement with Chiaravalli Trasmissioni, Transdev is now able to offer form-fit equivalents of Motorvario and Bonfiglioli worm gearboxes and geared motors at competitive prices. The CHM (Motorvario) and CHB (Bonfiglioli) series provide industry standard interchangeability covering a comprehensive range of aluminium and cast iron CNC machined housings with RAL 9022 powder coated epoxy protective finish.

With power ratings from 90W to 7.5kW, they are available in a wide choice of foot, flange and face mounting options with selectable motor position, single or double shafts, connection flanges for multiple mounting and a range of accessories including pre-stage gear reducers and torque arms.

The CHM range covers nine models with ratios from 7.5:1 to 100:1 and single or double solid input shafts on 25 to 130mm centre distances.

Nominal torque ratings are up to 14nm for the smallest frame model unit and are up to 650nm for the largest.

The CHB range covers four models with ratios from 7:1 to 100:1 with centre distances from 30 to 62.17mm with torque ratings to 110nm.

The modular design of both CHM and CHB versions includes standard B5 and B14 flanges with mounting surfaces on all faces allowing a wide choice of flange and foot mounting positions.

Specifications, installation and operational instructions are detailed in separate catalogues, available in hard copy or as a PDF on Transdev's website.

For use with the gearboxes, Transdev also supply a range of four-pole, three-phase motors with continuous service ratings to IEC 34-1, closed design IP55 housings and Eff2 efficiency levels.

With both B5 and B14 flanges and IEC power ratings to 7.5kW, accessories include forced ventilation kits.

Two-pole and six-pole windings and higher efficiency versions are also available.