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.

Demag Installs Cranes At Rainham Steel Warehouse

Demag Cranes and Components has installed two crane systems at Rainham Steel's Scunthorpe distribution centre, as part of the development of a new warehouse facility. To meet sustained expansion, Rainham Steel has developed a 75,000ft2 warehouse facility for the processing and storage of steel beams. To meet the company's materials-handling requirements, Demag installed two double-girder travelling cranes, with spans of 30.8m and 31.5m, both rated at 7 tonnes plus 7 tonnes SWL.

Both cranes are equipped with two Demag DR-Pro wire rope hoists, upon which magnets are mounted. The use of magnets for the lifting process is said to eliminate time-consuming 'slinging' of loads and improves safety by excluding operators from the lifting area. The Demag cranes have long travel speeds of 8-80m/min, cross-travel speeds of 5-25m/min and hoisting speeds of 1-16m/min.

Drive motors feature AC frequency inverters for variable speed, providing smooth movement and precise positioning accuracy in all motions. Operation of the cranes, hoists and magnets is via a user-friendly HBC radio control, which allows the operator to stand clear of the process area.

Sensonics Installs Vibration And Speed Monitors

Sensonics, a condition monitoring specialist, has supplied and installed DN26 series vibration and speed monitors for Shanghai Boasteel, an iron and steel company in China. The contract for the supply and installation of the monitors was completed in conjunction with Star Royal Industry and Engineering, Sensonics' Shanghai-based distributor.

The two new systems monitor the bearing vibration of de-dusting and sintering fans, providing online condition monitoring and shutdown protection.