Fortress Interlocks has integrated a
key switch function into key exchange units

Industrial safety specialist Fortress Interlocks has integrated a key switch function into key exchange units, making it possible to isolate the power and release access keys in one operation.

The XMR unit simplifies the traditional interlock procedures for safeguarding potentially dangerous machines and areas with multiple access doors. By simply turning the first key of the XMR the safety contacts are broken, isolating the machine power. This key is then trapped and the other access keys can then be used to open the door locks allowing access to the safeguarded areas. Only when all keys are returned to the XMR can the machine be restarted. Therefore using the XMR, separate key transfer between an (isolation) key switch and key exchange unit is no longer needed, providing a simplified and cost efficient solution for lots of safeguarding applications.

The XMR is available in different switch currents and switch contacts. Besides the standard back of board version an enclosed version (IP67) is available.

Trapped key interlocking is a proven and tested method of safeguarding machinery or potentially dangerous areas. By trapping and releasing keys in a pre-determined order safe working environments can be achieved. The XMR and other Fortress products are suitable for use in high risk SIL3, PLe and Cat. 4 applications.

For further information about the XMR key exchange unit, view website: www.fortressinterlocks.com  Refer to page 295

A series of metric worm & worm wheels from QTC provides
over 403 ways to transmit motion at a 90° angle to the shaft

A new Series of metric worm gears and worm wheels from Quality Transmission Components (QTC) provides over 403 ways to transmit motion at a 90° angle to the shaft as an ideal solution to many power transmission design applications.

These hobbed worm gears, identified as the KWG... (worm shafts) and AG... Series (worm wheels) are stocked in 4140 alloy steel for the worms and CAC702 aluminum bronze for the worm wheels. Bore diameters for worm gears range from 4 mm to 250 mm and worm shaft lengths range from 13 mm to 32.5 mm. These gears are produced by KHK Co. Ltd. under an exclusive distribution arrangement with QTC in the US. They are featured at the QTC eStore where you can order online, request a quote, download CAD models, check stock plus view catalog specifications and technical pages.

Other power transmission solutions provided by QTC include over 7,000 off-the-shelf gears including spur, helical, miter, bevel, internal, rack, gear couplings, spline shafts, gearboxes, and other components for prototypes and production applications.

Complete technical specifications are contained in catalog Q420 and/or the new Q422 CD-ROM, which are available to users of power transmission components free upon request from Quality Transmission Components (QTC), Division of Designatronics, Inc., 125 Railroad Avenue, Garden City Park, NY 11040-5016. Tel: 516-437-6700 Fax: 516-328-3343. Website: http://www.qtcgears.com/QTCPress/Worm_Gears.htm

New exhibition focuses on industrial adhesives,
sealants and encapsulants for manufacturing industry

A gap in the UK exhibition calendar has now been filled following the announcement by NewbyCom Ltd of a new event for buyers, specifiers, users and sellers of industrial adhesives, sealants and encapsulants.

IASE - The Industrial Adhesives, Sealants & Encapsulants Exhibition is being held at the National Motorcycle Museum Birmingham on October 21st, and will expand a top-quality audience that is already attending the well-established FAST Exhibition which is held at the same time.

The FAST Exhibition (Fastening & Assembly Solutions & Technology) was established in 2005 and has proved a big hit with visitors and exhibitors alike thanks to the combination of an innovative no-nonsense layout, focused benefits and massive visitor promotion which the Organisers pioneered to boost the value of the opportunity for all parties.

"This is a natural and organic extension of the very successful FAST platform" said NewbyCom MD Mark Newby. "The FAST Exhibition is about putting things together better in manufacturing, and we have always had a good representation of adhesives, sealants and encapsulants suppliers at the show. But now we can expand on it considerably, promoting IASE as an event in its own right, and deliver to the audience a far wider selection of solutions focused on adhesives technology than we have ever been able to do before. Suppliers of all disciplines will see the obvious advantages of this when they exhibit".

Visitors to both IASE and FAST don't just benefit from focused events that help them fasten, bond, seal, encapsulate and assemble better - they also have the advantage of a Complimentary Museum pass worth £6.95 and also a Complimentary Luncheon voucher worth £5 too if they pre-register in advance.

To capture these additional benefits, FAST visitors may pre-register in advance at the following website address: www.fastenerexhibition.com and IASE visitors can also pre-register at: www.adhesives-show.com

For further information contact, Mr Mark Newby,  Fastening & Assembly Solutions,  e-mail: mark@fastening-solutions.co.uk

Novel connectors simplify commissioning of
electrical equipment in hazardous firedamp environments

A range of innovative, explosion-proof connectors, from Cooper Crouse-Hinds, simplifies the commissioning and decommissioning of electrical equipment installed in hazardous firedamp environments, including underground mines.

Firedamp is a flammable gas predominantly found in coal mines, which normally comprises a number of different flammable gases, particularly methane. Firedamp is commonly found in areas where the coal is bituminous. The gas accumulates in pockets in the coal and adjacent strata, and when these are penetrated, the release of the gas can trigger an explosion.

The eXLink Mining connector is certified for use in hazardous firedamp areas. The connector enables engineers to commission and decommission a wide range of electrical equipment in underground mines, without having to use any special tools and without having to isolate, then disconnect the equipment. This means the installation, maintenance and repair of any electrical apparatus in firedamp areas can be carried out in a simple, safe but cost-effective manner.

The eXLink Mining connector is designed with armoured cables, which are certified for use in hazardous firedamp areas. This means that any electrical device with power consumption up to 16A - light fittings, alarms, sensors, motors and drives - can simply be plugged in and out using the connector.

Light fittings, for example, which are connected using eXLink can be serviced or replaced at any time without having to disconnect the complete lighting circuit. Actuators and sensors that use eXLink connectors can now be replaced quickly and safely at all times. Similarly, components on large machines can be replaced much faster and more safely, with minimal effort.

By using the eXLink 6+1 connector, current consumers with 3 phases up to 16A, PE and 2-wire control lead can be connected by using just a small plug.

For further information, view website: www.ceag.de or e-mail: Gordon.Low@CooperIndustries.com  Refer to page 188