Feature 5 | GERMANY Figure 4: Static overload test with bonding control (Credit: Vulkan Couplings). Thanks to comprehensive research
experiments and decades of experience, Vulkan Couplings are in a position to then draw conclusions about the dynamic properties of an element from static test results. Following vulcanisation, each series element delivered is subjected to a static overload test (Figure 4) to ensure that the bond between the elastomer and the metal is secure. Furthermore, it is to be ensured that the dynamic properties correspond to the elements’ established specifications. For each measuring task, Vulkan
Couplings employs a suitable measuring method. To measure cast segment springs (for example, on the new ACOTEC RATO S+ coupling) a 3D optical scanner is used
Figure 5:
Digitalisation of segment springs using a 3D optical scanner and comparison with the 3D CAD model (Credit: Vulkan Couplings).
during the prototype phase. By means of two cameras it captures the distortion of a stripped pattern that is shone through a projector onto the surface of the segment springs to be measured. Its high level of efficiency, high resolution, and the measuring ranges available, enable efficient and highly accurate measurement during quality control and rapid digitalisation (Figure 5). Te first new flexible couplings using
the ACOTEC principle were on show at Sea Japan 2010 in April in Tokyo. Te new ACOTEC compound, transfer moulding vulcanisation and the reduced inertia technology has delivered a flexible coupling with significant performance. Te ACOTEC RATO S+ 5H20 follows
a completely new element design. The so-called integral design which has the advantages of a conventional two-row coupling with regard to the torsional stiffness and misalignment capacity, with significant weight advantages due to a reduction of the middle mass by torsional vibration calculations, results in a significant commercial advantage for the customer. Te VULKARDAN G+, launched at the end of 2009, was especially designed for modern auxiliary and generator applications with engines having SAE flywheels. The torque range of this coupling is from 5kNm up to 25kNm and therefore covers the range of performance of engines up to 4300kW. The design follows the requirements for free standing systems and enables efficient and time-saving assembly and disassembly of the elastomer. In addition Vulkan Couplings offers VULKARDAN G+ product types for bell housing application as well. For its entire product range, Vulkan
Couplings possesses type approvals from all noteworthy classification societies. Moreover, among others, Det Norske Veritas, Lloyd’s Register, ABS and Class NK classification societies permit the autonomous acceptance of couplings. Since February 2009, an agreement for alternative product certification has existed with Germanischer Lloyd. Such authorisation makes it possible to react very flexibly to customers’ requirements during acceptance. Within the context of such authorisation, and besides the audits relating to ISO 9001 certification, Vulkan Couplings are audited several times per year by the classification society. SBI
60
Ship & Boat International July/August 2010
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50 |
Page 51 |
Page 52 |
Page 53 |
Page 54 |
Page 55 |
Page 56 |
Page 57 |
Page 58 |
Page 59 |
Page 60 |
Page 61 |
Page 62 |
Page 63 |
Page 64 |
Page 65 |
Page 66 |
Page 67 |
Page 68 |
Page 69 |
Page 70 |
Page 71 |
Page 72 |
Page 73 |
Page 74 |
Page 75 |
Page 76