This Week in Power & Motion: Mack Defense Developing Electric Propulsion Vehicle for U.S. Army
There is much going on in the world of hydraulic, pneumatic and electric motion systems, from technology introductions and industry advancements to new trends and industry leaders. Each week the Power & Motion team collects the latest industry news to help keep our readers up to date on what's happening in the fluid power and electric motion control sectors as well as the industries they serve.
NFPA Accepting Scholarship Applications
The National Fluid Power Association's (NFPA) Education and Technology Foundation is currently accepting applications for students pursuing an education in fluid power. Scholarships are for the 2024-25 academic year and applications are due by April 1, 2024.
Applications are also being accepted for graduating high school students who have participated in FIRST Robotics, National Robotics League, or VEX Robotics Competition Team and used pneumatics in their robot. The deadline for applying to this scholarship is May 5.
Information for applying and other details related to the scholarships can be found on the association's website.
NFPA is looking for volunteers from the industry to review applications for both scholarships as well and can contact the association for further details on how to get involved.
READ MORE: NFPA Fluid Power Vehicle Challenge Provides Real-World Engineering Experience
Thomson Launches Online Product Selector for Screw Jacks
Thomson has created an online screw jack configuration and selection tool which the company says can help design engineers optimize and specifiy these components for loads up to 100 tons.
According to the company, screw jacks are increasingly being used in place of hydraulic cylinders in ultra-heavy, low duty-cycle applications. As such, having a tool like its online configurator can help engineers quickly and easily find the right component for their application.
Within the configurator, users can enter load, speed, travel, duty cycle and other motion parameters which will prompt the online tool to provide options fitting these parameters. Each time a new parameter is entered, the tool dynamically regenerates the selection in real time so they can see the impact of configuration changes immediately Thomson states in its press release announcing the launch of the online tool.
Engineers can then further narrow their choice by screw type, mounting and various other factors. Once a selection is made, users can download a PDF or 3D file for use in a CAD program to help them finalize their designs.
STLE Launches DEI Committee
The Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers (STLE) has created a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Committee.
According to STLE, the committee will recommend policies, programs or activities intended to guide the society's commitment to DEI. It aims to identify DEI best practices which will be incorporated into STLE's culture and shared with members as well as the broader tribology and lubrication engineering industry.
“STLE prides itself on its attention to diversity, equity and inclusion,” said Elaine Hepley, chief executive officer at Solana Consulting Services and chair of the DEI Committee. “The society is dedicated to ensuring everyone feels welcome, embraced and respected. I look forward to working with everyone on this committee to further our DEI successes in 2024 and beyond.”
Visit Power & Motion's WISE (Workers in Science and Engineering) hub which compiles coverage of workplace issues affecting the engineering field, in addition to contributions from equity seeking groups and subject matter experts within various subdisciplines.
Motion Appoints New SVP of Strategy & Markets
Motion Industries Inc. has named Chris Cleland Senior Vice President of Strategy & Markets. In this role he will lead the company's strategy development for its various business groups as well as the e-commerce and digital teams.
Cleland brings to the role over 25 years in consulting, strategy, marketing, branding, e-commerce, business development and transformation experience. He previously served as Principal Consultant at Cummings Creative Group where he led multiple successful initiatives across several industry verticals, which included 12+ years consulting with Motion on marketing and strategy projects.
"[Chris'] impressive track record in innovation and transformation makes him a perfect fit for guiding our companywide strategic planning process and shaping our future growth and success," said James Howe, Motion’s Executive Vice President – Chief Commercial Officer/Chief Technology Officer, in the company's press release announcing Cleland's appointment.
Mack Defense Partners with BAE Systems for Alternative Propulsion System
Mack Defense is working with BAE Systems, a developer of heavy-duty electric propulsion technology, on its prototype Common Tactical Truck (CTT) for the U.S. Army which will be equipped with electric propulsion technology.
BAE Systems supplied its Gen4 propulsion and accessories power management systems to Mack Defense for integration into the CTT. Doing so will help reduce fuel use, leading to improved operational efficiency for the U.S. Army. The Gen3 is comprised of an electric motor/generator and power electronics which help provide efficient vehicle operation.
Like many industries, the military is working to improve its efficiency and environmental footprint as well as the safety of personnel and thus is evaluating advanced technologies and alternatives to diesel to acheive these goals. Updating its various vehicles is a part of these efforts. In January 2023, Mack Defense received a prototype contract to develop and test its CTT which could help to meet the U.S. Army and other military branch's desire for more advanced and efficient vehicles.
READ MORE - The Real Driver of Electrification: Fighting Climate Change or Commercial Gains?
