Siemens Software Enables Vehicle Development

Siemens PLM Software claims that its technology enabled the development of more than 90 per cent of the vehicles that automakers are exhibiting at the North American International Auto Show. The software was used to plan, evaluate and coordinate the development and manufacturing engineering of these vehicles.

Siemens PLM Software provides OEMs with managed collaboration across complex engineering functions and throughout the extended supply chain. In 2008, there were 68 million cars produced globally by the top 50 Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers and of those vehicles, Siemens PLM Software's technology was used in 64 million, the company said.

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Vehicle Power System Uses Mattei Vane Technology

Mattei is demonstrating the durability and energy efficiency of vane technology through a partnership with Winton Engineering. Winton's onboard-power system utilises the power of a vehicle's engine to drive auxiliary tools and equipment. These modular systems utilise the Mattei vane compressor and can be supplied with a 6kW 110/240V generator. The complete module is powered through the Winton Drive Line Power Take Off (DLPTO).

Winton systems are installed under the vehicle and deliver compressed air up to 160cfm. These systems are installed on a range of vehicles and are predominantly used by civil-engineering and utilities companies to power equipment such as road drills, breakers and site lighting. Andy Gear, Winton Engineering, said: 'We chose Mattei compressors as we believe vane-compressor technology is more efficient than traditional screw- or piston-driven compressors; it reduces the demand on the vehicle's engine and generates less noise and heat.

'The result is a powerful, energy- and fuel-efficient system that makes a significant contribution to whole-life operating costs. 'It's also virtually silent in operation, so is suitable for continuous running. The air end in Mattei's rotary-vane compressor comprises a rotor with longitudinal slots that house individual sliding vanes. The rotor is offset within a stator (a cylinder), in which it rotates.

While the rotor turns on its axis, the vanes are pushed against the stator wall by centrifugal force, and the air is compressed. Andy Jones from Mattei said: 'Our technology is the optimum solution for tough conditions. 'The vane compressor's rotor shaft is supported by simple white metal bearings, which ensure a long and inexpensive operating life. He added: 'An air end can easily run for 100,000 hours without wear - in fact, some Mattei machines have lasted over 230,000 hours in the most arduous operating conditions.

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Altec Develops Crane For Prinoth Vehicle

Altec Industries has partnered with Prinoth to install cranes on its Go-Tract range of vehicles, including the Altec AC38-127S on the GT4500 tracked vehicle. Altec can install 18 to 38ton telescopic cranes, high reach isolated man lift booms up to 46m, pressure washers and digger derricks on Prinoth track vehicles. These features will allow for work in places previously not accessible by trucks, offering a significant cost reduction on operation and gain on time.

Typical uses include construction of remote transmission lines and oil field applications in both boggy and permafrost conditions. Prinoth launched the versatile payload tracked vehicle which easily adapts to the user's needs. From 20tons of payload on the big Go-Tract 4500, to 4.5tons of payload on the Muskeg, it can meet the demands of any work environment, where power, toughness, traction and safety are essential.

The Altec AC26-103 crane on GT3000 offers a front and rear climbing capability of 60 per cent and 40 per cent on side hilling. The technology on the undercarriage gives the user a ground pressure lighter than a human footprint at maximum load and has a result of outstanding traction on sand, rocks, mud and snow. The larger Altec AC38-127S mounted on GT4500 is ideal for transmission line construction projects. With a 58.5m sheave height the crane can handle pylon construction and line placement, plus with the optional two man platform allows it to double as an aerial platform.

Post construction, the insulated jib and platform options on the AC38-127S provide live line working capability to 58m for maintenance crews, which can replace the more costly means of access by helicopter commonly seen in the UK. These savings are further compounded, both during construction and maintenance periods, as the low ground pressure vehicle does not require temporary roadways and reduces ground reinstatement works after access.

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