Transporting system . . . Metalworking . . . Laser wire stripping . . .
Dear Search Engineer: I'm looking for a transporting system for a product enclosed in the small capsule (130 mm high, 12 mm diameter). The system should enable transporting a distance up to 40m (with curves, drops, and rises ). The capsule should be transported in a vertical position due to the delicate product. Any thoughts? M.L., Design News Reader
Dear M.L.: One reader suggests that a standard chain link transport system could be the answer, with the capsules hanging from the chain, so that they are always vertical.
Dear Search Engineer: What metalworking process would best produce a cylindrical shape with two rows of inward pointing tabs? Profile or cross-section would be u-shaped. I can find people to stamp the flat strip and even create the u-channel, but the same people cannot shape it into a circle. Surely there is a process out there (roll forming, drawing, extrusion, etc.) that can create the part I'm after. Material is stainless steel. Stamping houses are not the right path. Can you suggest another process I should pursue? My sheet metal background is pretty limited to stamping. B.E., Design News Reader
Dear B.E.: A reader responds: one method to produce the part was not mentioned Metal Injection Technology (MIT). MIT can produce dense, high strength, corrosion-resistant 3D metal parts to net shape. The part described in the question is an excellent fit for MIT. Ferrous and non-ferrous alloys can be produced using this technology. MIT dates back to the early 1980s and has been a production process since 1988.
Dear Search Engineer: Our company is introducing a new product that requires laser wire stripping "windows" into a ribbon cable (with Teflon insulation) to provide openings in the insulation to make electrical connections. The equipment to do this is very expensive. I am looking for a vendor that performs laser wire stripping on a contract basis. Any ideas? D.H., Design News Reader
Dear D.H.: Assuming the windows needed are for making electrical contact, "how about taking a reverse approach?" asks one reader. Typical telephone connectors allow the insulated wire to be inserted into the connector. Then, pressure is applied to the side of the connector, causing the leads to penetrate the insulation and make electrical contact. Ribbon cable is normally much wider, but if the quantity justifies, a similar connector could solve the dilemma.
Dear Search Engineer: Is it possible and what hydraulic wheel motor and pump would it take to run a 4000 lb. car down the road between 65 and 75 miles per hour. What horsepower engine is required? D.T., Design News Reader
Dear D.T.: There was a lot of work done at the University of Wisconsin, Madison in the 80s and 90s, and more recently by the EPA. A summary of much of the findings can be found at http://rbi.ims.ca/4400-518.
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