Curtiss-Wright’s Industrial Group has today announced that it will be attending the Electric & Hybrid Vehicle Technology Expo Europe 2020 where, joining a wide range of innovations for hybrid and pure-electric applications, the company will be promoting its World Traction Inverter (WTI) series, electronic throttle controllers and transmission shifters.  

Drivetrain electrification is a trend Curtiss-Wright is at the forefront of, with the company designing and manufacturing vehicle-grade traction inverters since 2003. In fact, Curtiss-Wright estimates that its inverters have covered over 1.8 billion kilometers of on road use. The kilometers covered by these traction inverters have helped during the development of its WTI, which offers state-of-the-art technology and innovative design for use in hybrid and pure-electric vehicle applications. 

Curtiss-Wright’s WTI operates with multiple motor technologies – including AC induction, permanent-magnet synchronous (PMS) and interior permanent-magnet (IPM) types – and offers a high level of self-protection with both current and transistor temperature measuring locally to the IGBTs. A torque motor-control mode is available for hybrid applications, speed mode for pure-electric applications or DC bus voltage mode. In DC bus mode, the inverter can moderate adverse and damaging voltages resulting from situations including regenerative braking. The WTI offers a versatile connection to master control systems via either J1939 or CANbus protocols; and a customizable, discrete interface also supports digital, analog and solenoid-drive control options.

Joining the WTI is Curtiss-Wright’s range of electronic throttle control systems, which are designed to meet the most demanding specifications. Ergonomic designs include floor and firewall mounting configurations; and optional kick down and customizable treadle covers. In addition, the company manufactures a standard range of electronic throttle controls that can minimize tooling costs for many applications; and take basic ergonomic, dimensional, electrical and aesthetic requirements from OEMs and provide a complete custom design service.

Also on the stand will be the company’s range of transmission shifters, including a range of cable-operated and electronic shift-by-wire transmission controls; as well as systems for automatic, automated manual, and hydrostatic transmissions. Curtiss-Wright’s transmission shifters are available in pushbutton, single- and dual-lever configurations; and are suitable for use in on- and off-highway applications; including construction and agricultural vehicles, materials handling and other specialty vehicles.

Curtiss-Wright’s Industrial Group announced today that it has successfully secured an order to supply Hyster-Yale Group with an in-cab armrest solution for its 1 – 3 ton range of Internal Combustion and Electric lift trucks. The armrests have over 80 standard variants which offer combinations of mini-lever joysticks, switches, and buttons, all of which will be delivered to the Hyster-Yale assembly plants in the U.S. and Europe starting in the first quarter of 2020.

OEMs are constantly developing highly-efficient, flexible and safety-critical vehicles that increase productivity, building on a trend towards incorporating electronic Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs) that integrate fully into custom control boxes and armrest assemblies, and provide operators with a wide range of new capabilities. 

Curtiss-Wright’s HMIs incorporate multiple functions and can be operated with the use of just one hand, or via finger or thumb activation. The interfaces typically incorporate push-button switches, rotary thumbwheels and joystick paddles and levers, which variously offer switched and proportional control of a vehicle’s numerous features.

So whether Curtiss-Wright is creating concepts to address existing OEM specifications, or customizing its products to better suit an application, its global team of engineers is ready for the challenge and will partner with design teams to ensure the most reliable and cost-effective equipment is developed.

Sales Inquiries: Please forward all sales and reader service inquiries to cwig.uk@curtisswright.com. 

For more information on Curtiss-Wright Industrial products, visit www.cw-industrialgroup.com or call +44.1202.034000.

Heat transfer specialist Fulton will be using Foodex to showcase its range of fuel-fired and electric steam boiler solutions, launching its all-new boiler sequencing control system and promoting the many solutions on offer from its aftercare division. 

Launched at Foodex in 2018, Fulton will continue to promote the many radical features and benefits of the multi-award-winning VSRT vertical steam boiler – including the VSRT-250 due for launch this year – with the stand featuring a cut-away demonstration model of the VSRT-30 and a typical example of a skid mounted solution for food and beverage processing facilities that features a VSRT-15. 

Fulton will also be using its stand to launch the company’s all-new boiler sequencing control system which, with many food processing facilities operating multiple steam boilers, can optimise installations to ensure energy efficient operation and improve boiler longevity. Using sequencing to provide redundancy and reliability, Fulton predicts that significant savings can be made by automating start-up and shut-down procedures, controlling and optimising main steam header pressure or temperature, ensuring steam supply is controlled precisely for the required process and by eliminating idle time at low-fire.

Beyond its product portfolio, the company will also be showcasing the many solutions on offer from its aftercare division, which can support Fulton’s own installations and those from other boiler manufacturers. 

Commenting for Fulton, aftercare and business development manager Jeff Byrne says: “Since launch, the VSRT has proved extremely popular, especially within the food processing sector. So, while we continue to push the VSRT and promote its low total cost of ownership, we must also promote the many aftercare solutions Fulton offers.”

Fulton is renowned for its many gas-, oil- and electric-fired heat transfer solutions, but its service doesn’t just stop after a boiler is installed and commissioned. A food processing facility depends on its heat transfer equipment to maintain a regular supply of steam and, in many cases, during every hour of every day. So, when a boiler needs start-up, aftermarket parts, repair/maintenance or your operators require training, it’s essential that you use professionals that understand the often-complex capabilities of your processing equipment.

Using an analogy, Jeff explains that having invested in a new fleet of vehicles for its business, a company would be ill-advised to use unqualified mechanics or technicians to service them. “In the automotive industry, doing so would likely result in the manufacturer’s warranty being invalidated.” says Jeff. “But this is exactly what we’re seeing at facilities where boilers operators are often given little, poor or no training and are therefore unqualified and certainly unprepared when a fault occurs, or regular maintenance is required. A poorly maintained and serviced boiler could result in failure, significant process downtime and potential revenue losses.”

As well as offering boiler spares and repair service for all makes and types of heat transfer equipment, Fulton’s aftercare portfolio also includes accredited boiler operator training to INDG436 and BG01-R2, technical boiler house risk assessments, boiler and water treatment service contracts, water treatment training to BG04 and EN12953, steam trap surveys, site mass balance assessments and system design, etc.

For further information on the VSRT, boiler sequencing system or Fulton’s aftercare solutions, visit stand R269 at Foodex, call +44 (0)117 972 3322 or click www.fulton.co.uk. 

Curtiss-Wright’s Industrial Group has today announced that it will be attending this year’s CONEXPO-CON/AGG event in Las Vegas, where the company will be showcasing its latest product offerings including Human-Machine Interface (HMI) Controls, electronic throttle controllers, transmission shifters, sensors and power electronics.

Curtiss-Wright Industrial Group has extensive experience in designing and manufacturing solutions for the monitoring and control of vehicles operating in extreme conditions, including applications throughout the construction and off-highway sectors.

A recent trend for these applications – and one being highlighted on the Curtiss-Wright stand – is towards OEMs incorporating electronic HMIs that integrate fully into custom control boxes and armrest assemblies, providing operators with a wide range of new capabilities.

Working closely with OEMs, Curtiss-Wright can develop complete HMI console assemblies that incorporate multiple functions and can be operated with the use of just one hand, or via finger or thumb activation. Typically incorporating joysticks, push-button switches, rotary thumbwheels and levers, they bring control of numerous vehicle functions and features to a central console for operator convenience and efficiency.

Drivetrain electrification is another trend Curtiss-Wright is at the forefront of and on its stand will be the recently-launched World Traction Inverter (WTI) series.

Curtiss-Wright has been designing and manufacturing vehicle-grade traction inverters since 2003 and estimates that its inverters have covered over 1.8 billion kilometers of on road use. The kilometers covered by these traction inverters have helped Curtiss-Wright during the development of its WTI, which offers state-of-the-art technology and innovative design for use in hybrid and pure-electric vehicle applications.

As a Tier 1 supplier to numerous vehicle OEMs, Curtiss-Wright is well placed at understanding the market’s needs, an understanding that has formed the basis for the WTI.

Other products from Curtiss-Wright Industrial Group – which includes the legacy brands of Arens Controls, Penny & Giles, PG Drives Technology and Williams Controls – include electronic throttle controls, position sensors and power management systems. These will be on display at CONEXPO and are suitable for a wide range of applications including heavy trucks and buses, powered access platforms, backhoe excavators, agricultural vehicles, airport fire and rescue vehicles, floor care machines and pallet trucks.

Sales Inquiries: Please forward all sales and reader service inquiries to cwig.uk@curtisswright.com. 

For more information on Curtiss-Wright Industrial products, visit www.cw-industrialgroup.com or call +44.1202.034000.

Having recently announced a series of appointments for its aftercare/service department, leading heat transfer specialist Fulton is continuing to strengthen its UK team with a number of senior roles changes.

Having joined Fulton in May 2017, Leigh Bryan has assumed the role of national consultant specialist at the company.

Commenting on the new role, managing director Carl Knight says: “In his previous role, Leigh was instrumental in successfully integrating the VSRT into Fulton’s current portfolio and introducing it to the UK market as the most radical change to vertical steam boiler design since Fulton pioneered the vertical tubeless boiler in 1949.

“In his new role, Leigh will remain an integral member of the management team and, thanks to the success of the ultra-low NOx VSRT steam boiler since its launch, will provide specification support, documentation and CPD training to specifiers and consultants across numerous markets.”

Ruth Price, who joined Fulton in 2012 as area sales manager for the North of England and North Wales, has also been promoted and, in her new role as senior sales engineer, will work closely with new and existing customers across the UK to advise on optimum boiler and steam systems specifications for their project.

For further information on the VSRT steam boiler or training available from Fulton, call +44 (0)117 972 3322, email sales@fulton.co.uk or visit www.fulton.co.uk. 

Curtiss-Wright’s Industrial Division has today announced a further strengthening of its global distribution network with the appointment of Drabpol Sp. Jawna P. Drabczynski i Wspolnik, who will represent the Industrial Group in Poland.

Siedziba firmy Drabpol.pngWith over 35 years’ experience, Drabpol has a history of focusing on safety in the transportation and avionics markets and represents some the world’s leading brands throughout its area of operation.

With its headquarters in Mykanow near Częstochowa, Drabpol also boasts exhibition and showroom facilities in Warsaw, a local branch network throughout Poland – including branch offices in Modlin and Lublin – and a network of over 220 partner workshops throughout the country.

Drabpol will be responsible for the distribution and support of the Arens Controls, Penny & Giles and Williams Controls portfolio of products, which includes electronic throttle controls, mechanical-cables and electronic shift-by-wire selectors for automatic and automated transmissions, joysticks controllers and a range of linear, tilt and rotary sensors.                                                

Drabpol can be contacted on +48 34 366 00 22 or by visiting www.drabpol.pl.

Curtiss-Wright’s Industrial Division is a recognized leader in the production of critical controls and assemblies for specialty vehicles, including sensors, electronic throttle controls and joysticks. Further information is available at www.cw-industrial.com.

Curtiss-Wright’s Industrial Group has today announced that it will be attending the Electric & Hybrid Vehicle Technology Expo 2019 where, joining a wide range of innovations for hybrid and pure-electric applications, the company will be showcasing its World Traction Inverter (WTI) series, electronic throttle controllers and transmission shifters.

Offering state-of-the-art technology and innovative design for use in hybrid and pure-electric applications, this new family of traction inverters operates with multiple motor technologies – including AC induction, permanent-magnet synchronous (PMS) and interior permanent-magnet (IPM) types – and offers a high level of self-protection with both current and transistor temperature measuring locally to the IGBTs.

A torque motor-control mode is available for hybrid applications, speed mode for pure-electric applications or DC bus voltage mode. In DC bus mode, the inverter can moderate adverse and damaging voltages resulting from situations including regenerative braking. The WTI offers a versatile connection to master control systems via either J1939 or CANbus protocols; and a customizable, discrete interface also supports digital, analog and solenoid-drive control options.

Joining the WTI is Curtiss-Wright’s range of electronic throttle control systems, which are designed to meet the most demanding specifications. Ergonomic designs include floor and firewall mounting configurations; and optional kick down and customizable treadle covers. In addition, the company manufactures a standard range of electronic throttle controls that can minimize tooling costs for many applications; and take basic ergonomic, dimensional, electrical and aesthetic requirements from OEMs and provide a complete custom design service.

Also on the stand will be the company’s range of transmission shifters, including a range of cable-operated and electronic shift-by-wire transmission controls; as well as systems for automatic, automated manual, and hydrostatic transmissions. Curtiss-Wright’s transmission shifters are available in pushbutton, single- and dual-lever configurations; and are suitable for use in on- and off-highway applications; including construction and agricultural vehicles, materials handling and other specialty vehicles.

Sales Inquiries: Please forward all sales and reader service inquiries to cwig.uk@curtisswright.com.

For more information on Curtiss-Wright Industrial products, visit www.cw-industrialgroup.com or call +44.1202.034000.

Fillongley Spring Water boasts one of the UK’s most efficient bottling facilities and offers a high-speed and cost-effective way for bottled water cooler distributors to access the high-quality product demanded by their customers. But with the demand for bottled cooler water increasing, Fillongley needed a new bottling line. However, with the two existing Fulton boilers not having the capacity to reach the target temperature for the new plant’s washing line, Fillongley started looking at alternative steam raising solutions. 

Commenting for Fillongley Spring Water, technical and quality manager Martin Whitehead says: “We looked at several alternatives – including vertical and horizontal firetube boilers – but, with advice from our main contractors and installer, a decision to specify one of Fulton’s recently-launched VSRT-30 steam boilers was taken and, overall, the results have exceeded expectations!”

Instead of running two boilers for the washing line, a single VSRT boiler is now being used to achieve an increased target temperature of 60°C for the detergent. The combination of the new line and Fulton’s energy-efficient VSRT also means the company has been able to increase the throughput of the line by 40% – from 1,200 bottles per hour to 2,000 – and Fillongley has reduced its gas consumption by about a third. 

“A reduction in gas consumption wasn’t something we set out to achieve, so this is a real bonus for the company and means the payback period for the bottling line is reduced.” says Martin. 

It is within the bottle washer that, via a heat exchanger, steam from Fulton’s VSRT vertical boiler is used to heat the detergent. The company also took the decision to retain the existing vertical steam boilers for duty-standby purposes.

The VSRT is the first steam boiler to emerge from Fulton’s new ‘PURE Technology’ approach, an initiative that’s resulted in a world-first design that is durable, long-lasting and boasts the highest efficiencies and ultra-low NOx emissions as standard. This new approach aims to enhance heat transfer, provide class-leading efficiencies, improve steam quality and reduce NOx emissions.

Rather than further-improve products like its J Series to achieve these goals, PURE Technology – the culmination of Fulton’s clean slate approach to design – challenges the industry status quo on conventional boiler design by engineering solutions that are fit-for-purpose and fully-optimised for all applications.

Launched in 2018, Fulton’s VSRT steam boiler is unlike anything the industry has seen before. And because of its radical, world-first design that is durable, long-lasting and boasts the highest efficiencies and ultra-low NOx emissions as standard, it’s also catching the eye of those judging product and innovation awards.

At the recent Institute of Gas Engineers and Managers’ (IGEM) Gas Industry Awards 2019 at the London Hilton on Park Lane, Fulton’s VSRT continued its winning streak by claiming the Product of the Year award, the vertical steam boiler’s third award in six months.

Commenting for Fulton, managing director Carl Knight says: “The double-award-winning VSRT becomes a multi-award-winning steam boiler and we couldn’t be more delighted with this Product of the Year award. It was up against some stiff competition, which we hope proves just how impressive this next-generation boiler is and how much hard work has gone into developing the VSRT.”.

With over 15 patents pending in three continents, the VSRT’s spiral-rib heat exchanger is a world first. It attains industry-leading heat transfer rates thanks to its unique spiral design, which achieves low stack temperatures by passing the flue gases through a spiral-wound heat exchanger that is fully immersed in water. 

“The PURE Technology approach adopted for the VSRT aims to enhance heat transfer, provide class-leading efficiencies, improve steam quality and reduce NOx emissions.” says Carl. “Rather than simply try to improve existing products to achieve these goals, PURE Technology challenges the industry status quo on conventional boiler design by engineering solutions that are fit-for-purpose and fully-optimised for all applications.”.

Lowestoft-based Nexen Lift Trucks – a leading designer, manufacturer and supplier of forklift trucks and warehouse equipment – is delighted to announce an £8.5m investment in its UK-based headquarters and manufacturing facility.

Commenting for Nexen Lift Trucks, sales director Pamela Oakes says: “Thanks in part to a thriving e-commerce-based retail market with sales that represented nearly 20% of all retail sales in the UK alone in 2018, demand from logistics specialists and warehousing operators continues to show growth in both the UK and global markets. 

“It is therefore vital that we continue to invest heavily in our UK facility to help us maintain current demand while increasing production to focus on growth for Nexen products, including the all-new, multi-directional Ergo sideloader.”

The 48,000 sq. ft. purpose-built extension to the company’s existing 55,000 sq. ft. factory will enable Nexen Lift Trucks to double the output of all models via new production and assembly lines; and see the manufacturer further invest in its state-of-the-art research and development facility. 

Nexen Lift Trucks currently employs 50 staff at its Lowestoft headquarters and, to help facilitate the doubling of output and an increasing export order book that equates to 70% of its products, the company also expects the planned investment to create 40 opportunities for new engineers, technicians and other staff.

As part of Nexen’s investment and expansion plans, the research, design, development and production of many of the company’s forklifts, sideloaders and warehousing equipment will continue to be undertaken at its headquarters in Lowestoft, rather than those the company owns in other countries. This bucks the recent Brexit-related trend seen across numerous manufacturing sectors and allows Nexen, which has over 40-years’ experience in the materials handling sector, to place the design and production in the hands of some of Britain’s top designers and engineers.

For further information call Nexen Lift Trucks on +44 (0)1502 532211, email info@nexenlifttrucks.com or visit www.nexenlifttrucks.com.