Atlas Copco Introduces New Diesel Hydraulic Power Pack

Atlas Copco Construction Tools LLC introduces the diesel-powered LP 13-20 DEL to its line of hydraulic power packs. The new power pack places less load on the engine when working with demanding tools like heavier handheld hydraulic breakers, and is ruggedly built to withstand vibrations during operation.

The LP 13-20 DEL is powered by an air-cooled, 10-horsepower Lombardini series 15LD diesel engine, with recoil and electric start. Comparison tests with previous other power pack models have shown that the new engine is less loaded in demanding conditions.

The new pack offers hydraulic oil flow of 5.3 gallons per minute at a maximum pressure of 2,175 psi. The power pack has an oil capacity of 1.3 gallons to sufficiently fill the pack, hoses and an attached tool.

A thermostatically-controlled air blast oil cooler on the power pack warms up the engine quickly while protecting hydraulic oil from overheating. This allows the correct working temperature to be achieved after just a few minutes of operation, even in cold, winter conditions. A filter condition gauge is included to indicate when the oil flow return line filter needs replacement.

The LP 13-20 DEL is well suited for tunneling jobs and poorly ventilated areas, as well as other applications where diesel is preferred. Offering a higher power-to-weight ratio than competing pneumatic and electric systems, the 256-pound hydraulic power pack can efficiently power a wide assortment of handheld hydraulic tools and breakers for various construction, utility and demolition projects.

For optimal durability, the LP 13-20 DEL is designed with a reinforced chassis — which is integrated with the tank and fan housing — to accept the higher vibrations and load from its diesel engine. Additionally, a tubular stainless steel frame protects the power pack’s internal components and inhibits rust and corrosion damage. The frame is also mounted in rubber suspensions to further reduce wear and extend equipment life.

The power pack features foldable handles for easy lifting and solid large diameter wheels for maneuverability around a jobsite. The LP 13-20 DEL is 23.6 inches wide, 29.3 inches long, and 27.8 inches tall. At this compact size, the pack requires minimal storage space, can be placed on a shelf, and fits in the back of a van.

Atlas Copco is a world leading provider of industrial productivity solutions. The products and services range from compressed air and gas equipment, generators, construction and mining equipment, industrial tools and assembly systems, to related aftermarket and rental. In close cooperation with customers and business partners, and with more than 130 years of experience, Atlas Copco innovates for superior productivity. Headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden, the Group’s global reach spans more than 150 markets. In 2005, Atlas Copco had 27,000 employees and revenues of BSEK 53, MEUR 5,600. Learn more at www.atlascopco.com.

Atlas Copco Construction Tools is a division within Atlas Copco’s Construction and Mining Technique business area. It develops, manufactures and markets hydraulic, pneumatic, and gasoline-powered breakers and drills, as well as pedestal boom systems worldwide under several brands. The division is headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden and has production units in Europe, Africa and Asia.

Caldwell Pipe Tongs - Expanded Capacity

The Caldwell Group is pleased to announce newly expanded capacities in its Model 108 Pipe Tongs. They are now available in 6 sizes from 2” to 15” in diameter and up to 1-ton capacity, to fit a wide range of applications. The Pipe Tongs are of sturdy construction to handle pipe, round bars, castings, or other round shapes.  These Pipe Tongs are provided with curved gripping arms for a positive grip on all types of material.  Padded tongs can be furnished on request to protect smooth or polished surfaces from lifter damage.

For more information on Rig-Master® Pipe Tongs contact Caldwell's inside sales department at 800-628-4263, fax your request to 815-229-5686, or visit on the web at www.caldwellinc.com.

MICO Brake-by-Wire System Features Versatility and Reliability

MICO Incorporated’s innovative brake-by-wire system combines the control flexibility of electronics and the power of hydraulics to create a more versatile braking system. Ideal for on- and off-highway applications, the brake-by-wire system offers numerous advantages to traditional mechanical braking.

The brake-by-wire system replaces the traditional mechanical braking linkage and pressure-modulating valve with an electronic pedal and angle sensor, an electronic control unit and an electrohydraulic modulating valve (EHV). The angle sensor reads the brake pedal angle and sends an electrical signal to the electronic control unit (ECU). The ECU, which is programmable to set a vehicle’s braking characteristics, then passes current to the pressure-modulating valve that pressurizes the brakes. The output from the pedal angle sensor can also be shared with electronic engine controllers and/or transmission controllers for improved vehicle performance.

The system offers many advantages, including the capability of removing the modulating valve, with any associated noise, from the cab area and moving it closer to the brakes. This decreases the noise level in the cab, improving the operator’s work environment. It also reduces the amount of hydraulic line needed to power the brakes.

Anti-lock brakes and traction control can be implemented in conjunction with the brake-by-wire system for improved vehicle control. Brake-by-wire technology also allows inching control to be used to electronically control vehicle braking, especially in vehicles with hydrostatic transmissions. In this instance, the brake pedal serves two functions. The first function reduces the transmission’s power to the drive train, while the second applies power to the brakes.

Brake-by-wire can also be utilized in manual transmission vehicles. For vehicles stopped on an incline, the brakes can be programmed to hold the vehicle in place until enough throttle is applied to disengage the brakes. This ensures safety by not requiring the operator to depress the brake and clutch simultaneously to shift into gear.

The brake-by-wire system can also be used in vehicles controlled by remote or dual operator stations, including wireless stations.

Some existing applications using MICO brake-by-wire technology include aircraft passenger loaders, forestry harvesters, street sweepers, armored personnel carriers and railcar movers. The brake-by-wire system is durable enough to handle any off-highway use.

MICO Incorporated designs, manufactures and markets hydraulic components, controls and brake systems primarily for off-road applications. For more information, contact MICO Incorporated, 1911 Lee Boulevard, North Mankato, MN 56003, call (507) 625-6426, fax (507) 625-3212, send an e-mail to micomail@mico.com or visit the company’s Web site at www.mico.com.

PCB Piezotronics In-Process Force Measurement System Ensures Short Duration Force Signals No Longer an Issue for PLC's

Retrofitting old machines for in-process force measurement can present many challenges. Some of these include sensor integration, and high production cycle rates. Sometimes the existing sensing system or PLC just can’t respond fast enough for reliable performance. PCB Piezotronics (PCB®) has developed an effective solution for these applications with the new In-Process Force Measurement system, which consists of a Series M240 ICP ® Strain Sensor and Model 410A01 ICP ® signal conditioner, featuring Peak Hold.

The Peak Hold feature of the in-process measurement system allows older PLC systems to stay in synch with high-speed production cycles. The Model 410A01 ICP ® signal conditioner captures and holds the peak reading until a PLC can scan for the value. A simple solid-state relay resets peak hold value, ensuring high reliability force measurement for fast machine cycles.

The simple force measurement solution is intended for use in a wide range of process monitoring and control applications. The system comprised of a bolt on sensor and DIN rail mounted module can be installed and running in a matter of minutes. Its high-resolution analog output (0-5VDC) can be directly correlated to units of force. This system is ideally suited for monitoring and verifying stamping, crimping, press fit, riveting or other assembly force fabrication applications, including material presence and misalignment.

For detailed specifications, drawings and additional information, visit www.pcb.com.

PowerDesigners Expands Its PowerCharge iHF Line of High Frequency Battery Chargers

PowerDesigners is expanding its PowerCharge iHF line of battery chargers with the introduction of two new models; a 3kW single phase and a 6kW three phase unit. The new charger models allow the company to cover the complete range of motive power battery sizes with three charger offerings, namely 3kW, 6kW, and 10kW units.

The PowerCharge line of products feature state of the art MOSFET / IGBT & high frequency planar transformer technologies resulting in the highest energy efficiency (92%) and the lowest energy cost. The advanced on-board microprocessor controls incorporate programmable charging profiles to match any battery chemistry including flooded, Gel, and AGM lead acid batteries. The state of the art user interfaces allow for easy programming and data management of charger and battery data using custom Palm, Pocket PC, and WEB software applications.

“Unlike other charger offerings, the PowerCharge iHF line of chargers can be easily set to function as a conventional, opportunity, and fast chargers with the touch of a Palm” says Dr. Kutkut, founder & CEO of PowerDesigners. “This gives our customers greater flexibility and usability as the chargers’ functionality can be adapted to meet their changing application needs” adds Dr. Kutkut.

Founded in 1999 by Dr. Nasser Kutkut, PowerDesigners is a leading manufacturer and developer of industrial battery management products used in electric trucks and vehicles. The company is the first to offer a complete line of battery management solutions consisting of high frequency conventional, opportunity, and fast battery chargers, advanced battery monitors, advanced battery conditioners, and modular battery equalizers. For more information on the company’s products and services, visit our web site at www.powerdesigners.com.

Toro Announces New Attachments for the Infield Pro® Sports Fields Maintenance Machines

Toro is pleased to announce three new attachments for the Toro Infield Pro® sports fields maintenance machines. Incorporating the patent-pending Quick Attach System™ (QAS), the new Lip Broom, Nail Drag Mat and Utility Box have all been specifically designed to meet the unique needs of sports fields and grounds customers.

“The Infield Pro 3040 and 5040 models do an exceptional job grooming surfaces but also are easily converted to perform other critical maintenance tasks with its 21 total attachments,” said Christopher Anderson, associate marketing manager for commercial equipment at The Toro Company.

The Nail Drag is a rear attachment that offers precision scarification of skinned areas on sports fields. It can be lifted and lowered hydraulically and has adjustable down-pressure across the entire width of the drag for a smooth, even scarification across all surfaces. Adding the Steel Drag Mat or the Coco Drag Mat to the Nail Drag attachment offers scarification and grooming in one easy step. In addition, the Steel Mat and the Coco Mat can be used without engaging the Nail Drag attachment, while the Nail Drag Carrier System eliminates the need to manually lift drag mats between passes or fields.

The Lip Broom is a front attachment designed to eliminate the task of manually maintaining infield lips. The specially designed bristle broom is driven by remote hydraulics, and removes ridge buildup by sweeping material back into the infield. The attachment can be hydraulically lifted and lowered, is steerable, and offers adjustability for aggressive application and speed.

Joe Kennedy III is the Baseball Maintenance Manager at Surprise Recreation Campus, the spring training home of the Texas Rangers and Kansas City Royals.  The facility also hosts numerous youth and adult leagues and tournaments for a variety of sports throughout the year. “We began using the attachments in January while hosting Major League fantasy camps for the Rangers and Royals, and continued to use the attachments through spring training which ended the first week of April,” said Kennedy. “The Nail Drag is very efficient because our crew could nail drag and carry a screen, or mat drag at the same time. This allowed us to utilize the same piece of equipment versus carrying the mat on a separate utility cart.” Kennedy stated that the Lip Broom was just as popular with his crew. “We were able to alternate using the Lip Broom on the Royals field one day, and the Rangers field the next. Brooming lips is very important from a safety and playability viewpoint,” said Kennedy. “The Lip Broom has kept our grass edges in great condition.”

The Surprise Recreation Campus is comprised of 13 full-size baseball fields including Billy Parker field, 2 half fields for infield practice, 2 football fields, 3 youth baseball fields, and an 8 acre multi-purpose field. The fields, combined with surrounding landscape, cover 130 acres. They have won the Sports Turf Managers Association (STMA) Sports Complex of the Year Award from 2004 to 2006, and the Professional Grounds Management Society (PGMS) Sports Facility of the Year Award in 2005.

Another attachment for the Infield Pro is the new Utility Box. “Customer feedback tells us that sports complexes can never have enough utility vehicles,” adds Anderson. The addition of the Utility Box attachment increases the functionality of the Infield Pro and allows it to be used as a small utility vehicle. From hauling tools to infield mix or sod, the integrated flip-up stand allows customers to easily drop off the box and use the Infield Pro for other tasks. “The QAS System gives the Infield Pro the versatility of a utility vehicle without sacrificing the performance of a dedicated groomer.”

For more information on Toro Infield Pro and attachments, contact your local Toro distributor at 800-803-8676; visit www.toro.com; or write to Toro Commercial Equipment at 8111 Lyndale Avenue South, Bloomington, MN 55420.

About The Toro Company
The Toro Company (NYSE: TTC) is a leading worldwide provider of outdoor beautification products, support services and integrated solutions. With sales of $1.8 billion in 2006, Toro is committed to providing environmentally responsible products of customer-valued quality and innovation. Since 1914, the company has built a tradition of excellence around a number of strong brands that serve a customer base that includes golf course superintendents, groundskeepers, sports field managers, landscape and irrigation contractors, fruit and vegetable growers, and homeowners. The Toro Company is headquartered at 8111 Lyndale Avenue in Bloomington, Minn. Visit the company Web site at www.thetorocompany.com.

McLaren Introduces NU-AIR ATT Semi-Pneumatic Tire

McLaren Industries introduces the NU-AIR AT™, a new All-Terrain tire for skid steers and backhoes that joins the company’s NU-AIR TYRE™ Series Semi-Pneumatic Tire product line. The NU-AIR AT combines the cushioned ride of pneumatic tires with the durability of solid tires, making it an ideal tire for work on any terrain.

Featuring strategically placed holes throughout its specifically engineered sidewalls, the NU-AIR AT is resistant to cuts and snags in severe operating conditions. The placement and depth of the sidewall holes are designed to create proper cushioning for optimum machine performance and longevity. Unlike fully pneumatic tires, which provide shock absorption using compressed air, the NU-AIR AT will not flatten, eliminating downtime from unexpected punctures.

The tread pattern design of the NU-AIR AT allows for more surface contact, which reduces the level of ground pressure and thus extends overall tire life. Manufactured from heavy-duty rubber compounds, the tires can withstand rough environments and heavy loads. Taking into account routine wear and tear, the life expectancy of the NU-AIR AT is several times longer than most pneumatic tires. The lifetime gap is even greater on hard surfaces like asphalt and pavement, where the NU-AIR AT is particularly effective.

The NU-AIR AT is made with one-third more rubber than a standard tire, providing twice the tread depth of a standard pneumatic tire to optimize traction even in snow, sand or deep mud. Featuring a variety of tire and custom rim sizes, the NU-AIR AT is ideal for skid steers and backhoes. Included with the tire, the custom-fit rim offers easy installation.

Due to its shock absorption ability, the NU-AIR AT also works well with over-the-tire tracks. Its flat-proof capability and increased load capacity complement over-the-tire tracks well in harsh work environments.

McLaren Industries is a leading supplier of replacement rubber tracks for mini-excavators, track loaders, agricultural machines and carrier vehicles, flat-proof tires for skid steers and backhoes, and over-the-tire tracks for skid steers. For more information concerning McLaren Industries NU-AIR AT™ or the company’s complete product line, contact McLaren Industries, P.O. Box 7506, Torrance, CA 90504, call (310) 212-1333, toll free (800) 836-0040, fax (310) 212-6444, e-mail sales@mclarenindustries.com or visit the company’s Web site at www.mclarenindustries.com.