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What Is a SCARA Robot?

A SCARA robot is a horizontally articulated industrial robot with three rotational axes for horizontal motion and one axis for vertical motion.

The acronym SCARA stands for “Selective Compliance Assembly Robot Arm,” and the robots are commonly referred to as SCARA robots. SCARA robots have the following features.

• Quick horizontal movements
• Relatively inexpensive
• High mechanical rigidity in the vertical direction (because all three rotation axes are arranged vertically)

Taking advantage of these features, the SCARA robot is used for assembling work applications such as inserting and placing parts and tightening screws, contributing to the automation of production sites.

Uses of SCARA Robots

SCARA robots are often used in production lines for food products and electronic substrates. In addition to these applications, there are various other uses such as pick & place operations for parts, etc., press fitting operations, dispensing operations, assembly operations, etc.

1. Applications in Food Production Lines

• In Food Production Lines: It is used for filling plastic trays with food products (e.g., individually wrapped snacks) that flow on a conveyor belt.
• Packing of retort-packed foods into shipping cases.

2. Use in Electronic Board Production Lines

• Used in electronic circuit board production lines, like picking and placing components on trays after arranging them in bulk with a parts feeder.
• Placing electronic components (e.g., connectors) on trays onto electronic circuit boards:
•  Used to assemble electronic boards in inspection machines and set the boards for the next process after inspection. 

3. Other Uses

• Screw tightening: Tightening screws in multiple locations using an electric screwdriver on the tip of the robot.
• Cardboard unpacking: Emptying cardboard by cutting tape.
• Label attaching: Attaching a special label to the tip of the robot.

Principle of SCARA Robots

SCARA robots are composed of four axes of motion: three axes of rotation and one axis of vertical motion. 3 axes of rotation are all used to move the arm tip horizontally. From this configuration, SCARA robots can be said to be specialized for horizontal movements.

The three rotary axes are used to move the tip of the robot horizontally to a position directly above the workpiece at high speed, and then the vertical axes are used to approach the workpiece from above. Then, the tip of the robot approaches the workpiece from above using the vertical axis and performs tasks such as gripping the workpiece.

The SCARA robot’s arm tip can be equipped with the following tools depending on the work to be performed.

• Air suction pad
• Pneumatic gripper
• Electric gripper
• Screw-tightening device
• Dispensers

Teaching is required to operate SCARA robots. Until now, a dedicated tool called a teaching pendant was generally used. In recent years, there has been an increasing number of SCARA robots that emphasize ease of use, such as models that can be taught on a PC and models that can be taught easily even by beginners, called direct teaching.

Other Information on SCARA Robots

1. High-Speed SCARA Robots

Some SCARA robots are designed for high-speed operation. The SCARA robots contribute to the productivity improvement of the entire production line by operating at high speed.

If SCARA robots can finish their work quickly, workpieces can be passed on to subsequent processes more quickly. As a result, the time to produce a single product is reduced. This is the reason why the productivity of the entire line improves when SCARA robots operate at high speeds.

The following measures are effective in realizing SCARA robots’ capability of high-speed operation.

• Increase in the output of the motor
• Decrease in the weight of the arm
• Increase in the rigidity of the joints
• Controlling the robot to suppress vibration
• Scalar robot using a camera

2. Camera-Based SCARA Robots

By transmitting information obtained from the camera to the SCARA robots, the performance of the robot itself can be improved. Consider the case where SCARA robots are tightening screws to a workpiece. Each workpiece has individual intersections, and strictly speaking, each has a slightly different size.

Therefore, even if the SCARA robots holding the screw move to the teaching position, a situation can arise where the screw hole on the workpiece does not match the position of the screw tip on the end of the SCARA robots. In such a situation, screw tightening fails in many cases.

Here, a camera is used to photograph the screw holes and calculate the amount of displacement from the reference position. The amount of misalignment is then sent to the SCARA robots, which corrects the position by offsetting it to the original teaching point.

This enables the SCARA robots to perform screw-tightening work no matter where the screw hole is located within the camera’s imaging range. This mechanism is called “image position compensation” and is widely used in factory automation.

What Is a Pressure Switch?

A pressure switch is a type of sensor that detects pressure from a fluid such as air or liquid. The switch is activated by the absolute value of the pressure, or by the magnitude of the change in pressure relative to an arbitrary pressure value.

There are two types of pressure switch sensors. One is semiconductor piezoresistive diffusion pressure sensors that detect pressure changes based on changes in the amount of current or voltage flowing through a built-in piezoelectric element. The other is capacitance-type pressure sensors that detect pressure changes based on changes in the capacitance of a built-in capacitor with a movable pole caused by external pressure. The capacitance-type pressure sensor has a built-in capacitor with a movable pole.

Uses of Pressure Switches

Pressure switches are used in a variety of applications. They are used to control presses and molding equipment, as well as engine oil in automobiles and brake pressure in trains.

Pressure switches can also be used in harsh environments where they come in contact with corrosive or toxic chemicals. Explosion-proof pressure switches are also available for use where flammable substances are handled. These pressure switches are used in the chemical, oil, and gas industries, where chemicals are handled on a daily basis.

Pressure switches are also used to control the air volume of air conditioner compressors, cooling gases, vacuum cleaner suction, etc., and to control the pressure of pumps and compressors in production equipment.

Principle of Pressure Switches

Pressure switches convert changes in pressure into electrical signals. There are three ways to express pressure changes: first, as positive or negative pressure based on atmospheric pressure; second, as an absolute value of pressure; and third, as a differential pressure, which is a change in pressure relative to an arbitrary pressure.

There are two methods of converting pressure into an electrical signal. The first is the semiconductor piezoresistive diffusion pressure sensor. The second method is the capacitance-type pressure sensor, which contains a capacitor with movable poles. When pressure is applied to the sensor, the capacitance of the capacitor changes due to the deformation of the movable pole. The amount of pressure change can be determined from this change.

Types of Pressure Switches

The type of pressure switch used depends on the environment in which it is installed, the type of fluid with which it comes into contact, and the magnitude of the pressure to be detected. If the fluid is air, a pressure switch for air is used, and if the fluid is liquid, a pressure switch for general-purpose fluids is used. In environments where the fluid comes in contact with flammable substances such as organic solvents or natural gas, an explosion-proof pressure switch should be used.

In other environments where highly corrosive or toxic substances are present, pressure switches with chemical resistance should be used. When using pressure switches in locations where highly toxic substances are present, it is recommended to check not only the inside of the sensor, but also the chemical resistance of each part of the switch.

What Is a Wiring Duct?

Wiring ducts are used to store all the wiring for switchboards, distribution boards, lighting fixtures, etc., inside to secure and protect the wiring routing.

Wiring ducts, for example, are generally in the form of a square cylindrical enclosure. Wiring ducts for wiring indoor lighting fixtures, such as those used in stores, often have a rail shape that only allows one or a few thin wires to pass through.

In addition to wiring ducts, other common names for such shapes include lighting rails and duct rails. In addition to grouping and protecting wiring and ensuring routing, such lighting rails also serve to maintain aesthetics.

When installing a hanging light fixture, such as a ceiling light, a hook-and-loop ceiling with a power source may be used in place of a wiring duct.

Uses of Wiring Ducts

Wiring ducts, as mentioned above, are used to organize electrical wires.

Outdoors, it is often used in solar power generation wiring. It is also commonly used in conjunction with transformer cubicles for supplying electricity to large structures such as buildings and commercial facilities. They are also used in switchboards that actually transmit electricity to power sources. Since switchboards are often installed outdoors along with cubicles, wiring ducts are also used outdoors.

Wiring ducts used outdoors are exposed to rain and wind, so materials that are waterproof and durable are suitable. In addition, products have been developed for outdoor wiring ducts that have double layers, with the outer layer being weather-resistant and the inner layer being self-extinguishing.

Wiring ducts are also used to protect the wiring from the distribution board to each room in a house and the wiring for lighting in houses and stores. For such wiring ducts, environmentally friendly, non-halogen materials that do not emit toxic gases when burned are suitable. In particular, products that do not use halogens, as specified by the EU RoHS law, are required.

Principle of Wiring Ducts

Wiring ducts are used to protect electric wires and ensure their easy handling by bundling them so that they are not exposed.

For this reason, as mentioned above, many ducts for outdoor use are made of materials that are resistant to rain and wind, waterproof, and are not easily affected by weather conditions.

On the other hand, for indoor use, materials that are particularly reliable against fire are preferred, and materials that do not emit toxic gases when burned are used.

Wiring Duct Materials

Depending on the location and application of wiring ducts, flame resistance and weather resistance are required, so it is necessary to select materials that match the application.

Aluminum

Wiring ducts made of aluminum are surface-treated with anodized aluminum to enhance corrosion resistance. They are 30% lighter than their steel counterparts for the same size and construction.

Polyphenylene Oxide (PPO)

Polyphenylene oxide is a halogen-free material. However, ether, gasoline, and organic solvents may cause cracking, so care must be taken when using this material.

Polypropylene

Polypropylene is another halogen-free material that is environmentally friendly. It has high oil resistance and flame retardance, and due to its lighter weight compared to stainless steel and other materials, it is used in airplanes and railroad cars, contributing to weight reduction.

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), Rigid PVC

Both polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and rigid vinyl chloride are commonly used materials. They are halogen-used materials, although they are resilient and do not corrode. However, materials with enhanced insulation and self-extinguishing properties have also been developed.

Wiring Duct Shapes and Installation Methods

Wiring ducts generally come in the form of a square cylindrical enclosure, but products with holes on the sides or bottom are often used. However, since dust and other particles can enter through these holes, products without holes or other processing are suitable for locations where dust tends to accumulate.

In addition, wiring ducts are generally shaped with a cutout in the vertical direction or a hole drilled with nippers, etc. to facilitate wiring inside.

There are also different types of wiring ducts.

Direct-Ceiling Type

This type of wiring duct is generally installed directly to the ceiling. They are easy to install.

There are also many types of caps, such as the L-shape and T-shape, which can be used to connect wiring ducts together or to block the end of a wiring duct, allowing the wiring duct to be freely arranged and the wiring inside to be freely arranged.

Ceiling-Mounted Type

This type is directly embedded in the ceiling, so unlike the direct-mount type, it can make the overall room look cleaner.

Ceiling-Suspended Type

This type is used in rooms with high ceilings and allows the light fixture to be installed in a low position.

Simple Installation Type

This is a convenient product that can be installed at the point where electrical wiring is connected, such as a ceiling or rosette, in a typical home.

As you can see, wiring ducts can be installed in a variety of ways, depending on the application and your preference.

Also, there are a variety of materials and colors to choose from, so you can select the one that best fits your preferences, taking into consideration the installation method, material and color, and the location where it will be used and the lighting fixture.

Differences From Raceways

Raceways are a common component for installing lighting fixtures other than wiring ducts, and the differences between the two are described below:

First, the most important feature of a raceway is that its function is to supply electricity.

Therefore, they are used as equipment to install fluorescent lights, etc., and are often used in factories and warehouses. In general, those with a width of 5cm or less are classified as raceways, while those with a width of more than 5cm are classified as wiring ducts.

Wiring ducts are often installed in homes, as well as in cafes and boutiques that require spotlights and downlights to enhance the mood of the room, and can be easily installed or removed, so that lighting fixtures can be moved or changed in type according to their intended use.

Raceways, on the other hand, are primarily used in factories and warehouses, so they do not require as much support for moving and changing types of light fixtures as wiring ducts, and do not have as many features to accommodate replacements.

What Is an O-Ring?

An O-ring is a seal used to prevent leakage of fluid from a pipe or other object. It is so called because its cross section is circular and shaped like the letter O.

Since it is compressed by the parts to be sealed, the most commonly used materials include are rubber, silicon, or other elastic materials. Although used in the same way as gaskets and packing, O-rings are widely used in various places because of their ease of use, ease of maintenance such as removal, and low cost.

Uses of O-Rings

O-rings are used as sealing materials to prevent leakage of fluid from pipes and other components. They are also used to prevent gases from entering equipment that requires a high vacuum, such as electron microscopes.

O-rings require a groove for the ring in order to be used. This is because the O-ring needs to be compressed in order to seal, allowing it to deform into the proper shape and to apply the proper pressure.
Also, unlike gaskets and packing, O-rings can be used for both fixing and operating. In such cases, it is important to select an O-ring with the appropriate hardness for the location of use.

Principle of O-Rings

O-rings are deformed through compression to close the gap at the sealing area, and they achieve a seal through the repulsive force generated by this compression. Therefore, an O-ring is fitted into a groove for installation. When the O-ring is compressed and pressure is applied, it deforms toward the direction that it protrudes from the groove. Therefore, if the groove is too large, the O-ring will protrude from the member, and deterioration will begin at that point, eventually causing the seal to lose its sealing function.

Also, when fluid pressure increases, the pressure pushes the O-ring out, and the sealing function deteriorates due to overhang. Backup rings can be used to prevent O-ring protrusion. It is recommended that backup rings be used when the fluid pressure is 6.9 MPa or higher.

In addition, when compressing an O-ring with a member of the part to be used, the groove depth should be determined considering the compressing allowance to ensure sealing due to deformation. The appropriate groove depth and O-ring thickness (cross-sectional diameter) can be easily selected by referring to the JIS standard, which specifies groove dimensions so that the compression ratio of the O-ring is approximately 8 to 30% of its thickness.

The JIS standard also specifies the material and hardness of the O-ring, depending on the type and application of the O-ring.

O-Ring Materials

The following are examples of materials used for O-rings:

NBR (Nitrile rubber)

This is the most common material used for O-rings. It has excellent oil and abrasion resistance and stable heat resistance. It is used in general industrial machinery. However, among NBRs, performance is further subdivided according to material numbers in JIS and ISO standards, so it is necessary to check the standards before selecting the appropriate material.

FKM (Fluorine rubber)

This material has excellent heat resistance and oil resistance. Depending on the material number, some materials have excellent resistance to acids and alkalis, and are widely used in equipment that handles chemical solutions. It may also be used in high-pressure equipment or low-temperature equipment. Compared to NBR, it is more expensive. As with NBR, the performance of FFKM is also divided by material number, so it is necessary to check the specifications and applications before deciding on the material.

FFKM (Perfluoroelastomer)

FFKM (Perfluoroelastomer) is a material with excellent heat resistance and the best chemical resistance among synthetic rubbers. Commonly known as Perfluoro. This material is less likely to cause swelling of O-rings due to chemicals. The price is more expensive than FKM, and depending on the size, it is surprisingly priced at around 10,000~/piece. This material is used in cases where leakage of hazardous materials must be prevented.

Various O-rings are produced and sold by major manufacturers. When selecting an O-ring, make an appropriate selection while ensuring uniformity in terms of past performance and inventory management.

O-ring standards (P,G,V)

There are various standards for O-rings, some of which are introduced here.

O-rings that are used most frequently are indicated as P-000, G-000, V-000, etc. The initial letters of each have the following meanings and are used according to the purpose of use.

P (Initial Letter of Packing)

Used as O-rings for exercise and fixation.

G (Initial Letter of Gasket)

Used as O-rings for fixing.

V (Initial Letter of Vacuum)

Used as O-rings for vacuum.
Each of these can be identified by its wire diameter. Each standard has a corresponding table, so it is necessary to check the table when selecting an O-ring.

What Is a Spectroscope?

A spectroscope is a device that separates light components in order to measure only the intensity of light at the wavelength of interest from a composite of light of various wavelengths.

In recent times, many spectrometers have integrated a detector of the separated light, and the entire process from light separation to detection mechanism is sometimes collectively referred to as a spectroscope.

Uses of Spectroscopes

Spectroscopes are used in all industries and research fields because they can, in principle, spectrate light sources in various wavelength bands, from radio waves to radiation, regardless of whether the light is reflected or transmitted, and not only visible light.

In the field of analytical chemistry, it is used to measure the intensity of sunlight and plasma luminescence, and is also used to evaluate optical properties such as reflectance of materials.

They are also often incorporated without awareness into quality control lines that detect reflected light or other arbitrary wavelengths in product inspection lines using light sources such as lasers.

Principle of Spectroscopes

Generally, to spectrally analyze a light source, it is necessary to first shape the light.

After setting the light resolution by passing the light source through a gap called a slit, the light source is collimated by a collimator made of lenses and mirrors.

Spectroscopy can be performed by passing this collimated light into a spectrometer. There are two types of spectrographs: a diffraction grating-type that uses the diffraction phenomenon of light as well as a prism-type that uses the refraction phenomenon of light.

In the diffraction grating-type, the wavelength and resolution of light that can be detected can be changed by changing the diffraction pattern. This is because spectroscopy is performed using the reflection of light reflected by diffraction gratings engraved at regular intervals on the surface of the monochromator.

The principle of a diffraction grating-type spectroscope is explained here.

When collimated light from a light source (white light) containing light of various wavelengths is incident on a diffraction grating, multiple gratings, or grating-like structures (G1, G2, …), are formed at each position. Here, interference of light occurs, and monochromatic light, in which only a specific wavelength λ is intensified, is emitted in the angular direction (θ) where the optical path difference (dsinθ) of the reflected light originating from each grating satisfies a predetermined condition (integer multiple of wavelength λ).

In this way, different wavelengths are dispersed (separated in a rainbow-like pattern) at different angles by the diffraction grating.

By using a slit, only monochromatic light of a specific wavelength can be extracted from the dispersed reflected light. This is the principle of a grating-type spectroscope. By rotating the grating, it is possible to change the wavelength of the light to be extracted.

How to Choose a Spectroscope

When using a spectroscope with an integrated detector, it is necessary to select an appropriate one for the wavelength of the light source measured.

For example, if the light source is in the range from ultraviolet to near-infrared, a CCD is fine, but if the light source is longer wavelength than that, an InGaAs type detector is necessary.

As mentioned in the measurement principle, the wavelength of a diffraction grating-type spectroscope is determined by the diffraction pattern, so it is necessary to select a spectroscope suitable for the wavelength of interest.

The resolution of a prism-type spectrometer is determined by the nature of the prism, but it has the feature of no loss of light intensity, so it is advisable to select the right one depending on the application.

How to Use a Spectroscope

The general procedure for using an analytical instrument with a spectroscope is as follows:

1. Decide on the substance to be measured and the wavelength range to be measured.
2. Select a spectroscope corresponding to the wavelength you wish to measure.
3. Shine a light on the substance and spectrate the desired wavelength.
4. Put the desired light into the sensor to detect the signal.
5. The obtained signal is converted to a spectrum.

If it is an expensive object used in a laboratory, a spectrometer called a Michelson interferometer automatically detects the wavelength of a specific light. Even a small, portable machine can detect the wavelength of interest by passing the light transmitted or reflected through the material through an interchangeable spectroscope.

The resulting wavelengths enter the sensor (detector) and are detected as a signal for each wavelength. This signal is converted into a waveform called a spectrum, and by analyzing this spectrum, the state of matter is analyzed.

Examples of Spectroscope Experiments

There are several examples of experiments using spectroscopes, depending on the wavelength to be measured.

For example, the following are examples of experiments in each wavelength range, starting from the short wavelength side.

1. An x-ray spectroscope is used to identify the composition of a material’s surface by exposing the surface to x-rays and passing the reflected light through the spectroscope.
2. Ultraviolet/visible spectroscope identifies the composition of the object and the amount of light it contains by passing the light through the material.
3. Infrared spectroscopes reveal the structure of a substance by shining light on the bonds between molecules.

Thus, the information obtained depends on the wavelength range of the spectroscope.

Spectra Obtained From a Spectroscope

The purpose of using a spectroscope is to acquire information from an unknown or known substance and analyze it to identify the state of the substance. The final spectrum, or waveform diagram, obtained from a spectroscope is used for this analysis.

The spectrum obtained from a spectroscope includes the examples below. By first defining the information you want to know, it is important to select the appropriate spectroscope to acquire the spectrum.

1. An x-ray spectroscope identifies atoms from the peaks of the characteristic x-rays being measured.
2. UV/visible spectroscopes detect the energy difference between the electrons excited when light is transmitted through the sample as a spectrum.
3. The infrared spectroscope detects the vibrational energy between the bonds connecting atoms as a spectrum.

What Is a Core Pin?

A core pin is one of the parts of a mold. It is necessary when making shapes, such as “holes” and “bosses for screw fixation.” The core pin, however, is only a part of creating shapes and does not move, remaining fixed in place even when the mold is opened.

Uses of Core Pins

Core pins are used in molds for molding parts that have shapes, such as “holes” and “bosses for screw fixation”. Since the number of core pins required is equal to the number of “holes” and “bosses for screw fixation,” a large number of core pins are used in molds for parts used in products with many screw fixations. For small precision products, the core pins are also very thin, so care must be taken to avoid damage during molding.

Principle of Core Pins

A rod (pin) shaped part is made according to the diameter and depth of the shape that needs to be molded and is used as a part of the mold component. If the hole itself is deep or the hole itself is deep in the mold shape, the core pin itself needs to be long, making it more difficult to make. If a very long core pin is required, a thicker diameter may be used up to the middle of the pin to ensure strength and only the tip shape may be made to the required narrow diameter. Also, because there is a limit to the minimum distance between adjacent core pins, care must be taken when designing parts that require “holes” or “bosses” in close proximity to each other.

The core pin is a simple shape among mold parts, but due to the characteristics of the processing method of shaving metal, once the core pin is fabricated, “reducing the hole (boss) diameter” may be handled by shaving the core pin again to make it thinner, but “increasing the hole (boss) diameter” requires the core pin to be thickened, which is very difficult to do. However, “enlarging the hole (boss) diameter” is very difficult because the core pin needs to be thickened, and in the worst case, the core pin will need to be remade. Therefore, when designing a part for which “there is still a possibility of adjusting the hole or boss diameter,” it is often more cost and time efficient to first make a mold with a larger hole (boss) diameter and then make fine adjustments in the direction of a smaller diameter.

What Is Cable Protector?

A cable protector is a product that protects various types of wiring from force and electrical action.

They come in a variety of shapes, including holders, bushings, and spiral tubes that converge. Of these, the tube type is particularly common, and can be further classified into those with snap-button fastening, those with slits, and others.

Three typical tube types are corrugated tube, spiral tube, and net tube. The appropriate one is selected according to the location and intended use.

Uses of Cable Protectors

Cable protectors are often used for bundling door crossings, protecting wiring in panels, and binding harnesses for electronic components. A cable protector is characterized by its ease of use in terms of flexibility and durability, as well as its superiority in binding wiring. Different types of cable protector are used for different purposes.

1. Corrugated Tubing

Corrugated tubing, which has a bellows shape with slits, is widely used to protect wiring harnesses, especially in automobiles, construction machinery, agricultural machinery, home appliances, and residences.

2. Spiral Tubing

Spiral tubing is often used as a cable protector for cables and hoses routed to moving parts of industrial machinery.

3. Telescopic Braided Tubing (Net Tubing)

Expandable braided tubing (also known as net tubing) is characterized by its light weight and flexibility. Because of its flexibility as cable protector, it is used for wiring in airplanes, concerts, theaters, sound and lighting equipment, etc.

4. Grommets

Grommets are used in protecting wiring from damage from holes in panels, such as wiring pullouts.

Principles of Cable Protectors

A cable protector basically protects the wiring by covering the wiring with a tube or similar material around the wiring. A cable protector with slits in it is easier to insert the wiring. The part number is selected by comparing the inner diameter of the wire that fits the protective material with the natural inner diameter of the tube. In addition, since the use of the tube changes depending on its material, proper selection is required.

1. Polypropylene

Polypropylene is an insulating material and, as a result, does not conduct electricity It is often used for standard tubing because of its flexibility and resistance to cracking. It is inexpensive and available in a wide range of sizes and colors.

2. Nylon

This material can withstand temperatures as high as 100°C and is insulating. It tends to be slightly harder and more expensive than polypropylene. It has excellent weather resistance and is preferred for outdoor use. 

3. Nylon Containing Rodent Repellent

It can reduce damage caused by rodents when used indoors or outdoors. It is designed to cause irritation and pungency when gnawed by rats, preventing wire breakage. 

4. Chlorotrifluoroethylene

It is elastic, slippery, and heat resistant up to about 150℃. It is expensive.

Other products, such as silicon braided and glass braided tubes, have high self-extinguishing properties and heat resistance up to about 180°C.

Features of Cable Protector

1. Corrugated Tubing

Corrugated tube is one of the wiring protection tubes used as a wiring protection material. It is also one of the wiring harnesses that bundle multiple wires and wiring used for power supply and signal communication, etc. It not only bundles wires and wiring but also protects them from various external shocks.

The wave-shaped surface of the tube makes it softer and easier to maneuver than standard tubing. This allows them to be used in tight or oddly shaped spaces. Tubes are available in a wide variety of lengths, from short to long, and can be cut with scissors to adjust the length according to the conditions of use.

Tubes are made of two main materials: polypropylene and nylon. Polypropylene is a flexible and durable material that is widely used for indoor applications. Nylon has a higher unit price, but is more resistant to deterioration, making it suitable for outdoor use. Another appeal of corrugated tubing is that you can choose the most suitable material for your application.

2. Spiral Tube

Spiral tube is a tube designed to protect wiring. Since it is a resilient material, it is widely used as industrial cables and tubes, taking advantage of its elasticity. In addition to the purpose of wire protection and banding, it is also used for organizing wiring. When used to organize wiring, it is very easy to band the wires to be banded in one place and wrap the outer frame with the tube.

Spiral tubes are characterized by their tube-like shape that wraps around in a spiral. Spiral tubing is made of various materials such as nylon, polyethylene, and fluoroplastic as well as plastic.

3. Elastic Braided Tubing (Net Tubing)

Net tubing is a soft type of tubing that is braided using a special manufacturing process and can be cut from anywhere with scissors. It can be cut immediately, allowing for efficient and easy protective bundling. It is also attractive because it retains its attractive appearance even when cut.

In addition, the net tube has a braided structure that can be maintained for a long period without heat or moisture buildup inside the tube, and its high netting density provides excellent product protection. These tubes are ideal for use in protecting wires in moving parts.

What Is a Cable Reel?

A frame for winding linear objects such as string or hose is called a reel, and a machine that winds cables, hoses, wires, etc., by means of a spring or motor, is called an auto reel. A cable reel is a reel that automatically winds cables out of an auto-reel.

When there is only a power supply in a limited area, such as a construction site, a cord reel may extend over a distance of 50 m or more. Therefore, the use of a cable reel can shorten the winding time after the cable is used, thereby improving work efficiency and saving manpower.

Usage of Cable Reels

Cable reels are used when you want to connect power wiring from several meters to several tens of meters.

At construction sites, power sources are limited to building walls or generators, and it is not uncommon for power sources to be located far away from the work site. In addition, the cords used at construction sites are made with a thicker coating to prevent them from being easily broken, so they are extremely heavy and difficult to fold up and transport.

Therefore, cable reels are frequently used in the construction industry to shorten the time required to deploy and store wiring and to facilitate transportation.

Principle of Cable Reel

There are two types of cable reel winding mechanisms: spring-loaded and motor-loaded.

In the spring type, elastic energy is stored by the deformation of the spring inside the reel when the cable is deployed, and the cable is retrieved by the restoring force of the spring when it is stowed.

In the case of the motor type, the reel is rotated by the motor, so the cable can be wound with a large output. Motorized cable reels are used for reels of a size that cannot be wound by spring force, such as when the weight of the cable or the number of turns is very large.

One of the most common disasters that can occur when using cable reels is a fire caused by excessive loading. When a cable reel is used as it is wound on a reel, it is not guaranteed to carry as much current as when it is fully extended, and there have been cases where fires have occurred due to use without knowing this information. Therefore, when using a cable reel, it must be used fully extended after confirming that the amount of current indicated on the reel is not exceeded.

What Is Cable Rack?

A Cable Rack is a rack for laying cables on.

It is used to lay a large number of cables over long distances in an orderly and efficient manner. In most cases, cable racks are sold in units of 3 meters per cable, which are connected together to create long distances. It is not unusual to lay several hundred meters of cable, and they are used in relatively large facilities such as public facilities, factories, and laboratories.

Cable racks are generally installed by combining multiple cable racks or installing separators to separate the different types of wiring.

Uses of Cable Racks

Cable Racks are used for laying cables in large facilities. The following are examples of locations where cable racks are used:

• Processing plants and large-scale plants
• Event halls and office buildings
• Large commercial facilities

Cable racks are used in many locations in facilities above a certain size. Cable racks can be used to ensure safety within the facility by laying the wires in locations where passersby cannot easily touch them. Multiple wires can be laid at the same time, improving workability.

Compared to conduit, a larger number of wires can be laid. Therefore, short distances or a small number of cables can be laid with conduit, while cable racks are selected for long distances with a large number of cables.

Principle of Cable Rack

Cable racks are often made of metal materials, such as galvanized steel sheet or aluminum. Stainless steel or reinforced plastic may be used for corrosion resistance, for example, along the coast. They are generally sold in a rectangular shape with a longitudinal length of 3 meters.

When laying the cable rack, it is fixed with bolts attached to the ceiling to hang the cable rack, and accessories such as end caps are attached. Support at intervals of 2 m or less for steel products and 1.5 m or less for other materials. Where the cable connects with straight lines and other shapes, it should be supported near those areas and near the end of the cable rack.

Cables should be supported at intervals of 3 m or less in horizontal locations and 1.5 m or less in vertical locations. Exceptions are made if the cable rack is a tray type or if the cable is to be routed inside a double ceiling. When routing cables vertically, the weight should not be concentrated only on one child girder.

In consideration of earthquakes, cable racks should be secured at regular intervals during installation to prevent shaking. Since the metal cable rack itself may expand and contract when there is a large difference in temperature between cold and hot, expansion joints may be installed at intervals of 30 m or less to avoid this.

Types of Cable Racks

Cable Racks can be roughly classified into two types: ladder type and tray type.

1. Ladder Type

Cable Racks are ladder-shaped and often have a girder every 0.3m. Cables are secured to the girders with hemp cord, insulock, or other means. Cable Racks are widely used because cables can be visually observed.

Because of its light weight and low cost, this cable rack is frequently used in factories. When laid in places where passersby can see them, such as commercial facilities, they may degrade the design. Therefore, they are often installed in attics or inside walls in commercial facilities and event venues.

Cable Racks are also available in wider widths compared to tray-type cable racks; some are over 1 m wide, making them ideal for huge plants, for example. A wider range of materials is also available compared to the tray type. 

2. Tray Type

This type of cable rack has a tray-like bottom that is closed with a steel plate or the like. To secure cables, strings or bands are passed through holes at regular intervals on the bottom. The feature of this type of cable rack is that the cables themselves can be held stable by the bottom surface.

The cables can also be concealed, thus ensuring good design. Because of this feature, they are widely used in public facilities, commercial facilities, and offices. However, because of its bottom surface, it is more expensive than the ladder type.

What Is an Angle Valve?

An Angle Valve is a valve that can be connected to a pipe at a vertical angle when the valve body is connected to the pipe.

It is a type of valve used in piping and conduits. Angle Valves have the advantage of being easy to install and maintain due to their structure.

Angle valves are also used in a wide range of applications because of their resistance to high temperature and high pressure fluids, depending on the material used. In addition, a variety of shapes and sizes are available, depending on the type of valve and its application.

Uses for Angle Valves

Angle Valves are used as piping for water, air, oil, and steam. They are useful in situations where space saving is required, such as boilers.

1. Piping System

In piping systems such as water and gas pipes, angle valves are used to control the flow of fluids. The purpose of water pipes is to stop the passage of water. In gas pipes, they are used to stop the passage of gas.

2. Machinery Industry

In the machinery industry, such as ships and automobiles, they are used to control hydraulic pressure. On ships, it is used to control the hydraulic pressure of the diesel engine that powers the ship, while in automobiles, it is used to hydraulically transmit the operation of the car’s steering wheel.

3. Fire Prevention Systems

In fire prevention systems, they are used to control fire extinguishing systems. Angle Valves are used to control the flow of extinguishing agents and to extinguish fires at an early stage.

Principle of Angle Valve

Angle Valves regulate the passage of fluid by opening and closing a valve. The valve mechanism of an Angle Valve is located inside the valve body and is generally disk-shaped or cone-shaped. It can be operated with a lever or handle, and the amount of fluid passage can be regulated by opening and closing the valve.

When the valve is closed, the passage of fluid is stopped, and when the valve is opened, fluid is allowed to pass. Angle Valve plugs are made of a variety of materials. Typically, materials such as metal and plastic are used. It is important to select the appropriate material depending on the environment in which the valve is used and the type of fluid.

The opening and closing of Angle Valve is done by the rotary motion of the valve. When the valve opens and closes, the flange at the connection between the valve body and the pipe is used to rotate the valve. Rotation of the valve regulates and freely controls the amount of fluid that passes through it.

Types of Angle Valves

Angle Valves are mainly classified into the following types: bronze brass type, cast iron type, cast steel type, and stainless steel type.

1. Bronze Brass Type

Suitable for valves that require excellent corrosion resistance and airtightness. Widely used in housing, agriculture, and industry. The disadvantage is the high cost of ingots. Additionally, it cannot be used for flammable or toxic gases. 

2. Cast Iron

Due to its excellent workability and low ingot cost, it can be used for valves of medium to large diameters (1,000A or larger). However, it has the disadvantage of being susceptible to corrosion. Because of its low cost, it is widely used as a general-purpose product. 

3. Cast Steel Type

This type of steel has high strength and can be selected according to the temperature of the fluid. It is used in petrochemical plants, thermal and nuclear power plants, and other places that handle high-temperature, high-pressure fluids. However, it is somewhat susceptible to corrosion. 

4. Stainless Steel Type

Resistant to corrosion, and can be used in a wide range of applications from low to high temperatures. It is a widely used material with high strength. However, its high ingot cost is a disadvantage.

How to Select Angle Valve

1. Intended Use

The materials and valve shapes used may differ between applications in piping systems, such as water and gas pipes, and applications in the machinery industry, such as ships and automobiles.

2. Material

It is also important to select a material that is appropriate for the type of fluid. For use in highly clean areas such as food factories and medical equipment, a material with excellent corrosion resistance such as stainless steel should be used. 

3. Size of Connecting Parts

The size of the connection part is also an important factor. If the size of the connection part does not match the pipe, it may not operate properly. Select the appropriate size according to the connection piping and fluid flow rate/pressure. 

4. Operating Environment

If the valve is to be used in a high-temperature, high-pressure environment, the material and heat resistance performance of the valve must be considered.