Servo drives to hydraulic hose, all part of system solutions at Parker

Parker Hannifin Corp.

By Frank J. Bartos, executive editor March 15, 2001

Chicago, Ill. -A systems-oriented approach to design at Parker Hannifin Corp. (Cleveland, O.) was portrayed by ‘systems agents’ invading its National Manufacturing Week (NMW) show booth. The Mission Impossible TV program-style ‘invasion’ was meant to show the trend toward system solutions rather than component solutions for industry.

Among numerous products introduced at NMW was Parker Compumotor Division’s Compax 100SL and 3500M digital brushless servo drive/controllers that expand the line’s continuous power range from 1 to 35 kW (1.33-47 hp). Enhanced features of Compax include a 10 MHz velocity control loop and ability to link and change cam shapes on-the-fly.

‘Intelligence’ can turn up in unexpected places, even in staple commodity products like hydraulic hose. An ‘early-warning indicator’ of potential failure is built into the covering material of new ColorGard abrasion-resistant thermoplastic hose from Parker’s Parflex Division. The special multi-layer elastomeric/polymeric material will show a contrasting red-colored inner liner as the black outer cover wears down over time. ‘Even a casual inspection allows visible warning that the hose should be more thoroughly inspected,’ according to Parker Hannifin.