There are actually a couple of tools on the MTC website, such as a materials comparator that includes braze alloys and other materials the company sells, as well as a braze alloys materials selector. Both of these basically contain data sheet information, but are not calculators. The braze alloys materials selector only let you sort information on the alloy by name.
This really seems like an app that would have otherwise come out of one of the company's customer manuals. It's a smart idea in that the customer can get the information without having to page through a manual in search of mechanical properties or thermal expansion coefficients.
Software is just another product line, Rob. Take PLC manufacturers. The hardware (the PLC) is worthless without programming software. The programming software is pretty, but does nothing useful until you put the application into the PLC. The manufacturer treats them as two separate and distinct products; the software division is expected to do its fair share towards earing profits.
Yes, it makes sense that it's free when it goes to customers who are already using the company's technology. It always surprises me when a company charges $5 for an app that can only be used by its customers who are already spending thousands.
Technically, this one from Morgan Technical Ceramics is a highly specialized utility, not really a full-blown app, and since the data are confined to its product line, it makes sense for it to be free as a promotional tool. I would guess that such utilities will remain free, especially if they are vendor-specific like this one.
This is definitely a handy tool. Makes me wonder if companies will ever consider charging for an app like this. I suspect engineers would be willing to pay, especially for the easy accessibility. And what kind of company wouldn't want to cash in?
Pretty interesting app, Ann. I would imagine this would be useful for engineers who get quizzed on what would be an appropirate alloy for a specific design while they are out of town. At free, it's a nice price as well.
By refining topologies and using new fluid technology, Moog's new peak sine drive controller increases available power without increasing controller volume.
Lantronix Inc. has expanded its line of controllers for sensor networks with the release of a rugged controller that improves management of automation systems used in a number of industries, including manufacturing, oil and gas, and chemicals.
Inspired by the hooks a parasitic worm uses to penetrate its host's intestines, the Karp Lab has invented a flexible adhesive patch covered with microneedles that adheres well to wet, soft tissues, but doesn't cause damage when removed.
From Dell / Intel® New Paradigms in Design Work Scott Hamilton, vertical market strategist for Dell Precision workstations, 5/2/2013 3
Early in my career, I worked as a draftsman and remember the days of drawing on vellum with numbered pencils and Mylar with plastic lead. This was a fun experience in the sense that I ...
I've been using workstations for more than 10 years and love finding ways to get more performance from my system. With demanding professional applications that require more power each ...
A lasting memory from my first job as an engineer in an auto assembly plant is standing on hard concrete at six in the morning, vending-machine coffee clutched in hand, listening to ...
A quick look into the merger of two powerhouse 3D printing OEMs and the new leader in rapid prototyping solutions, Stratasys. The industrial revolution is now led by 3D printing and engineers are given the opportunity to fully maximize their design capabilities, reduce their time-to-market and functionally test prototypes cheaper, faster and easier. Bruce Bradshaw, Director of Marketing in North America, will explore the large product offering and variety of materials that will help CAD designers articulate their product design with actual, physical prototypes. This broadcast will dive deep into technical information including application specific stories from real world customers and their experiences with 3D printing. 3D Printing is
To save this item to your list of favorite Design News content so you can find it later in your Profile page, click the "Save It" button next to the item.
If you found this interesting or useful, please use the links to the services below to share it with other readers. You will need a free account with each service to share an item via that service.
Tweet This
7 
