Parts for custom machine construction

Custom parts for machines, also known internationally as "Special Purpose Machine Parts", play an important role in mechanical engineering and especially in custom machine construction. These specially designed components are often the core of custom machine solutions and fulfill tasks that cannot be realized with standard parts.

7 Minutes read

Pin connections – Connecting components with cylinder pins – Methods / errors

In this article, we will focus in detail on the subject of pin connections in the mechanical field. We will take a close look at molded parts such as bolts and pins, as well as other fasteners and securing elements and their decisive role in pin connections. We will discuss different examples of pin connections and potential defects when pinning components.

10 Minutes read

Toggle lever mechanism – How does it work?

The toggle lever mechanism is a technical principle that is used to generate or exert large forces with relatively little use of force. This principle is used primarily in industry in order to secure positions without permanent use of force - for example with quick clamps.

7 Minutes read

Washers – Types, uses, advantages and disadvantages

In this article, we will introduce you to some of the many versions of washers. We explain the use of washers and consider the advantages and disadvantages of washers. We also address the materials metal and plastic.

8 Minutes read

Profile rail guides – Types / function / service life / maintenance / alternatives

Profile rail guides: Join us as we explore the world of profile rail guides. Our article highlights the different types of profile rail guides and their functions. Learn how to maximize service life with proper maintenance, and take a look at possible alternatives in this critical area of linear motion technology.

8 Minutes read

Selection of tension springs and compression springs – Overview / uses / application examples

Tension springs and compression springs are mechanical components that can be used in a variety of industries.

This article is dedicated to tension springs and compression springs by providing an overview and illustrating their various uses in mechanical engineering and custom machine construction. The calculation of the springs is not discussed in this blog.

7 Minutes read

Position determination of workpieces in positioning jigs

The automation of many processes in the industry, production and assembly requires precise knowledge of the framework conditions and required movement sequences. Positioning Jigs are often used for this purpose. The position determination of a component must be clearly defined in the device. The workpiece holder defines the position in order to carry out a repeatable inspection or to receive materials such that they can be produced relative to a home position. Various Positioning Jigs from tool & die making, such as test devices or assembly devices, are used for this purpose.

7 Minutes read

Elements for securing axial bearings

In many industrial and mechanical applications, bearings are critical components that provide low friction, reproducible movement between moving parts, shafts, or axes. Depending on their installation location and function, these bearings must allow different degrees of freedom and be securely fixed. In addition to many other options, locking elements such as retaining rings or slotted nuts or shaft nuts are used to secure machine parts such as rolling bearings, bolts, or shafts against axial displacement.

9 Minutes read

Ball screw drives – Function / structure / types / precision classes

Ball screw drives are manufactured according to the selection criteria and specifications of DIN ISO 3408 or JIS B 1192, etc.

Ball screw drives are high-precision components used in various applications to convert rotary motion into linear motion. The areas of application for ball screw drives are wide-ranging and include areas such as CNC machines, 3D printers, robotics, machine tools and many other industrial applications.

9 Minutes read

Basics for selecting pneumatic cylinders

Pneumatic cylinders are important components in pneumatic systems that generate mechanical movements using compressed air. They are used in a variety of applications, such as in the manufacturing industry, in plant construction or in custom machine construction.

8 Minutes read

Glass transition temperature of polymers

The glass transition temperature is the temperature at which an amorphous or semicrystalline polymer transitions from a glass-like, brittle state into a rubber-elastic state. In this range, the molecular mobility of the polymer chains changes drastically, which leads to a change in the mechanical properties. In contrast to crystalline substances, amorphous materials do not have an orderly crystal lattice, but rather unordered molecular chains.

8 Minutes read

Representing threads in technical drawings

The correct representation of threads in technical drawings serves as a basis for technical communication between participating trades. Extensive information can be presented in a clear and internationally understandable manner and thus supports the smooth process in mechanical manufacturing, production and assembly. In this article, you will learn how threads and bore holes are shown in detail in mechanical engineering.

8 Minutes read

Calculating shear strengths and tensile strengths for screws

Shear strength and tensile strength are two important parameters for selecting and using screws. Screws are used to connect components in a friction-locking manner and to withstand mechanical loads. In order to ensure that screws meet the required strength requirements in a given application, it is important to know what shear strength and tensile strength are and how they are calculated.

7 Minutes read

Understanding bearing damage – Causes, failure mode and prevention

Rolling bearings are robust and reliable components in mechanical engineering and custom machine construction. Under certain conditions, however, bearing damage to these widely used machine elements can occur, usually resulting from unusual behavior during operation. In the worst case, bearing damage can result in a complete failure of the rolling bearings, which can result in unwanted downtime. Therefore, it is important to detect the first signs of rolling bearing damage early on and to remedy their causes. In this article, we discuss the symptoms of bearing damage, its causes and typical failure modes.

10 Minutes read

Parallel keys and tapered keys – Standards and norms (OLD+URL Redirect)

Parallel keys and tapered keys are two common connecting elements in the mechanical engineering industry. They are used to create a force-locking connection between two components. In this article, the two key types are examined in more detail and their areas of application are explained.

1 Minutes read

Standard parts and their importance for industry

Standardised parts are components that are manufactured according to a specific standard. They offer a number of advantages that make them an essential part of modern industry. This article explains what standardised parts are and the advantages and disadvantages they offer.

7 Minutes read

Metals and surface treatments – an overview (OLD+URL Redirect)

Industrial surface treatment is a process where a surface of a workpiece is treated to improve or change its mechanical, chemical or visual properties.

1 Minutes read

How to select the right component surface – expert knowledge of surface roughness and surface hardness (OLD+URL Redirect)

Surface roughness and surface hardness are important properties that must be taken into account when selecting components. Although there are different methods for measuring the roughness or coarseness of a component surface, these measurements often have to be converted to a standard measure.

1 Minutes read

Steel materials, steel and industrial materials: A guide to choosing the best steel for your applications

Industrial materials are very diverse and include metal (e.g. steel), polymers, glass and composites. It is important to take a look at these materials as they are used for a wide range of applications.

5 Minutes read

Shaft couplings – Basics and areas of application (OLD+URL Redirect)

This blog article provides an introduction on how couplings work and the different types in use today.

1 Minutes read