カテゴリー
category_usa

Taping Machinery

What Is Taping Machinery?

Taping Machinery

Taping machinery is a machine that fixes electronic components to tape with a heat seal and winds the tape onto a reel. It is mainly used in the process of surface mounting semiconductor chips on substrates. In this process, the electronic components embedded in the tape are sequentially removed to ensure a stable supply.

There are two types of taping machinery: the automatic type, which performs the entire process automatically, and the semi-automatic type, which seals the electronic components with a cover tape and winds them onto a reel. A rolling drum is required to wind the tape onto the reel, and a drum with high surface accuracy is necessary to reduce the runout of the drum.

Uses of Taping Machinery

In semiconductor production lines, taping machinery is used either by incorporating it into the surface mounting process or by off-line winding tape embedded with electronic components onto reels and supplying the reels to the mounting line. This allows for a stable, high-speed supply of electronic components.

Taping machinery is also used that combines the normal function of embedding electronic components and other parts into the tape with a cover tape with the function of inspecting and re-taping only good products or aligning and taping disparate parts.

Principle of Taping Machinery

Taping machinery is used to make continuous tapes as one of the packaging methods to enable the use of microscopic electronic components for surface mounting. A series of concave indentations, called pockets, are placed on a plastic or paper tape called an embossed carrier tape. Then, electronic components, etc., are placed one by one in each pocket covered with a cover tape, and sealed. Thermal tape is generally used for the cover tape, which is then wound onto a reel.

In addition to single-function taping machinery, there are also taping machines that are combined with the processes before and after the mounting process. For example, LEDs are fed from a parts feeder, inspected on a turntable, placed in a pocket on the carrier tape, and checked for posture with an image camera. It then seals them with cover tape and winds them on a reel. Many complex machines are also used. For example, small switches for mobile devices are fed through a parts feeder, and after characteristic inspection, good switches are taped and defective switches are ranked.

カテゴリー
category_usa

TRIAC

What Is a TRIAC?

TRIAC stands for “Triode for Alternating Current” and is a type of semiconductor switch with three terminals.

TRIAC has a structure in which two thyristors are connected in parallel so that they are in opposite directions to each other, and the bi-directional current switching operation can be controlled by a single gate.

Due to their ability to carry current in both directions, TRIACs are used as AC switches. AC power can also be easily controlled by shifting the phase of the gate input.

Uses of TRIACs

TIRACs are used in remote control switches for high-power home appliances such as TVs and air conditioners because they can control high-current switching with a small gate signal.

In addition, since the amount of power can be controlled by shifting the phase of the gate input relative to AC, TRIACs are used in various applications, including dimmers for lighting, ballasts to maintain a constant current for fluorescent lights, speed control of motors for fans, air conditioners, washing machines, etc. They are also used for temperature control of refrigerators, speed control of AC trains, and industrial equipment using motors. 

Principle of TRIACs

Thyristor, which constitutes TRIACs, has a PNPN four-layer structure, which can be represented by an equivalent circuit consisting of PNP-type and NPN-type bipolar transistors combined and connected to PNP-type gate, and NPN-type anode, PNP-type cathode, and NPN-type gate.

When a gate signal is input and a forward voltage is applied between the anode and cathode, the two transistors enter the ON state. The on-state of both transistors is positively returned to each other’s gate input, resulting in a stable on-state. Once the current begins to flow between the anode and cathode, it continues to flow even when the gate signal is lost.

When a reverse voltage is applied between the anode and cathode, the thyristor enters off-state and the current is interrupted. Thus, when an alternating current is applied between the anode and cathode of the thyristor, it works by supplying power for only half of an AC cycle and blocking the current in the reverse direction.

TRIACs consist of two thyristors that operate in this manner, connected in parallel so that they are in opposite directions to each other.

When a gate current is applied, the thyristor connected in the forward direction turns on, and current flows only as long as the forward voltage is applied to the TRIACs. At the end of the half-cycle of alternating current, the thyristor that was in the ON state becomes reverse biased and goes off state, and no current flows.

Then, when the gate current is input again in the second half cycle of reverse bias, the thyristor on the opposite side turns on this time. In this way, a single gated input controls the switching timing of the current in both directions.

In addition, shifting the phase of the gate current relative to the AC current changes the time that the TRIACs are in the ON state, thereby controlling the amount of power supplied.

カテゴリー
category_usa

Screwdriver

What Is a Screwdriver?

Screwdrivers

A screwdriver is a tool used to turn screws used to fasten objects.

A screwdriver has a long, thin metal or plastic shaft with a flat or Phillips tip. This tip is inserted into the head of a screw, and torque is applied to turn the screw to tighten or loosen it.

Screwdrivers are used in a variety of situations, including general DIY, construction, and manufacturing. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes, and some have special features such as a magnetic tip or an insulated handle for electrical work.

Uses of Screwdrivers

Screwdrivers are used in a wide range of fields, from general DIY to professional work sites, primarily for turning screws. Screws are common screw fasteners used to secure objects.

Screws can be tightened or loosened by turning them clockwise or counterclockwise. Screwdrivers are useful for a variety of tasks, including:

1. Assembling Furniture

Common furniture is held in place by many screws, and this tool is indispensable when assembling furniture.

2. Machine Assembly and Repair

Many machines are held together by screws and can be assembled or disassembled by tightening or loosening the screws.

3. House Repair

Screws are used in many home repairs, such as tightening a loose hinge or replacing a doorknob.

Principle of Screwdrivers

The principle of a screwdriver is to tighten or loosen a screw by the moment of force (torque) generated by the “leverage principle” when the shaft is rotated. The tip is designed to fit precisely into the head of the screw, ensuring a secure connection between the tool and the screw.

The shape of the tip varies depending on the type of screw used. Applying torque to the Screwdriver applies force to the screw, causing it to rotate and tighten or loosen.

Types of Screwdrivers

There are many types of screwdrivers, each designed for a specific type of screw and application. Here are the most common types of screwdrivers:

1. Flathead Screwdriver

A flathead screwdriver is used for screws with a flat tip and a single straight flat slot (-) in the head. This is a common screwdriver for household use. 

2. Phillips Screwdriver

A Phillips screwdriver has a cross-shaped tip and is used for screws that have a corresponding cross-shaped recess in the head. Screwdrivers are commonly used in electronics and appliances. 

3. Torx Screwdriver (Hex-Lobe Screwdriver)

This screwdriver has a hexagonal star-shaped tip and is used for screws with a star-shaped recess in the head. Commonly used in automobiles and electronics. 

4. Hexagonal Bar Wrench

This type of screwdriver has a hexagonal tip and is used for screws with a hexagonal recess in the head. It is often used for furniture assembly, bicycle maintenance, etc.

5. Square Screwdriver

This type of screwdriver has a square tip and is used for screws with a corresponding square recess in the head. It is often used in the construction and woodworking industries.

6. Nut Driver

Similar to a socket wrench, this type is used to turn nuts and bolts. Screwdrivers come in a variety of sizes and shapes.

7. Multi-Bit Screwdriver

These are screwdrivers with interchangeable bits (tips) for different types of screws. Versatile Screwdrivers are useful when working with various types of screws.

Overall, the type of screwdriver needed depends on the application and the type of screw used. It is important to use the correct Screwdriver to prevent damage to the screw and to ensure that the work is done correctly.

How to Choose a Screwdriver

Choosing a screwdriver is the easy part, but there are several factors to consider when choosing the right screwdriver for the job

1. Screw Size and Type

The size and type of screw determines the size and type of screwdriver you need. For example, small screws require a small Phillips screwdriver, while large screws require a large flathead screwdriver.

2. Screwdriver Tip

The tip of the screwdriver should fit snugly over the head of the screw so that it will not slip and damage the screw head. Screwdriver tips can be flat, Phillips, or Torx, depending on the type of screw.

3. Handle

Screwdriver handles should be comfortable to grip and provide good torque when turning. The shape of the handle and whether it is non-slip or not can also be considered as preventing hand fatigue and improve operability.

4. Material and Quality

Choosing a screwdriver made of high-quality materials, such as chrome vanadium or other durable metals, will ensure that the Screwdriver will last longer and have less risk of bending or breaking during use.

When choosing a screwdriver, one should comprehensively consider the size and type of screw, the tip of the screwdriver, the handle, the material and quality, and the reputation of the brand. Considering these factors will help you choose the right screwdriver for the job, leading to more accurate work and increased productivity.

カテゴリー
category_usa

Drilled Screw

What Is a Drilled Screw?

Drilled Screws

A drilled screw is a type of screw designed to be inserted without the need for pre-drilling or threading. It drills its hole as it is screwed into the material, simplifying the installation process.

Typically, fastening a screw requires a pre-drilled hole that matches the screw’s thread. This process is known as threading.

With drilled screws, threading is unnecessary, allowing for fastening without a pre-made threaded hole. The screw drills its hole, securing the materials together.

Uses of Drilled Screws

Drilled screws are commonly used in steel frame construction, providing a reliable fastening solution.

The screw mustn’t rest on the upper sheet metal when its drill part penetrates the lower sheet metal. This prevents the upper sheet metal from lifting and creating a gap during tightening, which could lead to fastening failure.

Principle of Drilled Screws

Drilled screws come in various types for different applications, each with its unique design and principle.

1. Head Shape: Pan

The pan head is prevalent for its excellent cold formability, making it a common choice for drilled screws.

2. Head Shape: Hexagonal

Hexagonal heads offer high torque transmission and are less prone to camming out, ideal for larger-diameter screws.

3. Head Shape: Flat

Flat heads enhance the appearance of the fastened area, as they do not protrude post-fastening.

4. Head Shape: Countersunk

Countersunk heads allow screws to be easily sunk into harder materials, thanks to the ribs formed on the seat surface.

5. Head Shape: Truss

Truss heads have a large diameter, providing a strong hold on the fastened material.

6. Thread Design: Tapping

Tapping threads are widely utilized for their ability to fasten lightweight steel frames effectively.

7. Thread Design: Machine

Machine threads ensure a secure hold even in thin base materials, reducing the screw’s outside diameter and tightening torque.

Types of Drilled Screws

The appropriate drill screw type should be selected based on the plate’s thickness.

1. For Thin Plates

Designed for fastening thin steel plates (1 to 1.2 mm), offering high holding power.

2. For Standard Plate Thickness

Commonly used for plates 2.3 to 4.5 mm thick, balancing screwability and holding power.

3. For Medium and Thick Plates

Ideal for plates 4.0 to 6.5 mm thick, with a part of the thread machined to reduce screw-in torque.

4. For Thick Plates

Suitable for plates 6 to 13 mm thick, featuring a notched thread to form a cutting edge.

How to Select Drilled Screws

Drilled screws are primarily made from stainless steel or carbon steel, each offering distinct advantages.

1. Stainless Steel

Available in martensitic or austenitic grades, stainless steel screws offer high corrosion resistance. Martensitic stainless steel is quenchable for added strength, while austenitic is preferable for its superior corrosion resistance.

2. Carbon Steel

Made from high-quality aluminum-killed steel, carbon steel screws are known for their impact strength, abrasion resistance, and tensile strength.

Structure of Drilled Screws

For wood or hardboard installations, drilled screws with reamers or pilots are available.

1. With Reamer

The reamer widens the hole drilled by the screw, featuring two winged blades at the drill section’s end. It functions effectively in soft materials like wood, bursting open when encountering hard materials.

2. With Pilot

The pilot section, located at the screw’s tip, includes a smooth portion extending from the drill section, facilitating the fastening of thick materials.

カテゴリー
category_usa

Torque Transducer

What Is a Torque Transducer?

A torque transducer is a transducer that converts the torque of a rotating or stationary device, such as an engine, into an electrical quantity for measurement.

Torque is the moment of force around a rotating shaft acting around a fixed rotating shaft. In a rotating body, the amount of torsion of the rotating shaft is converted into an electrical quantity using a strain gage, etc., and is taken out to a stationary part using a slip ring or radio to measure the transmitted torque and torque fluctuation. Stable measurement is possible from stationary conditions to the high-speed rotation range.

Torque transducers are used for research, testing, and inspection of rotating equipment. In selecting a transducer, it is necessary to consider rotating or non-rotating, rotational speed, environmental conditions, and mounting conditions.

Uses of Torque Transducers

In the development of automobiles, torque is measured over a wide range of components, including the engine, transmission, drive shaft, axle, motor, and auxiliary equipment. We examine the strength of each axis in bench-top and driving tests, analyze torsional vibration by frequency analysis of torque fluctuations, and resolve noise and vibration caused by engine torque fluctuations.

Motor testers can test motor performance by installing a torque transducer between the test motor and the load device. Powder brakes and hysteresis brakes are used for the load to measure output torque relative to rotational speed.

It is also used to measure the rotational load of the roller. The torque transducer between the drive motor and the roller makes it possible to measure the torque when feeding paper or foil to determine the optimum conditions.

Principle of Torque Transducers

Torque transducers are available in a variety of conversion methods: strain gage type for non-rotating types, and magnetostrictive, strain gage type, or phase difference type for rotating types. The strain gage type is widely used because of its superiority in terms of accuracy and stability. Contact-type slip rings, non-contact FM transmitter transmissions, optical devices, and rotary transformer transmissions can be used for signal extraction from rotating bodies.

In addition to strain gage, magnetostrictive, and phase difference methods, torque can also be measured by capacitive, spring, optical, and piezoelectric methods. In any of these methods, the transmitted data is converted from the amount of strain to torque using the elastic modulus of the material used.

1. Strain Gage Type

The strain gage type consists of four gages assembled in a bridge, and accuracy is improved by zero-point compensation and temperature compensation. Strain gages are attached to the surface of the shaft to be measured in two orthogonal directions at a 45-degree angle to the axis of rotation, and the amount of strain is measured and converted to torque.

2. Magnetostrictive Type

The magnetostrictive type uses magnetostrictive material on the shaft and excites it with a coil on the fixed side to measure changes in magnetic permeability for non-contact torque detection.

3. Phase Difference Type

The phase difference type is a method of non-contact data transmission by electromagnetic pickup of the phase difference between two magnetic gears. The disadvantage of this method is its large size.

4. Capacitance Type

The principle is the same as that of the variable capacitor, and torque can be detected by changes in capacitance.

5. Spring Type

Simple structure, and can be calculated by displacement using a torsion spring.

6. Optical Type

Detects polarization of optical material attached to the surface of the rotating shaft.

7. Piezoelectric Type

This method uses a piezoelectric element.

Types of Torque Transducers

1. Strain Gage Type

When measuring rotational torque with the strain gage method, the torque signal from the rotating shaft is extracted to the fixed side. In the telemeter type, an electronic circuit including an amplifier and strain gages is fixed on the rotating shaft, and measurement is possible with the electronic circuit on the rotating shaft. In the rotary transformer type, a strain gage is attached to the rotating shaft, and an AC signal is measured by the rotary transformer. In the slip-ring type, a strain gage is attached to the rotating shaft, and measurement is made by power supply and signal transmission through a slip-ring.

2. Spring Type

When measuring rotational torque with the spring type, there are several methods to detect the displacement before and after the torsion spring from the fixed side in a non-contact manner. In the electromagnetic gear phasing method, a gear is attached to the front and rear of the torsion spring, and the phase difference at the location of the gear teeth can be measured by an electromagnetic detector. In the electromagnetic induction phasing method, a phasing plate is fixed in front of and behind the torsion spring, and a differential coil and a drive coil are installed in two pieces in front of and behind the phasing plate to measure the output of the differential coil.

カテゴリー
category_usa

Nylon

What Is Nylon?

Nylon

Nylon is a plastic resin called polyamide synthesized from petroleum that is melted and processed into a fiber.

It was developed by E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company (duPont) of the United States in 1935 and has been used mainly as a material for women’s stockings since its industrial production.

Polyester is also well-known as a synthetic fiber resin and ranks first in terms of production volume, followed by nylon.

Nylon is the second most common synthetic fiber resin. It is easy to dye and is used in a wide variety of applications, mainly in clothing.

Uses of Nylon

Developed based on the concept of “thinner than spider silk and harder than steel,” nylon is used not only for general clothing but also for space suits, including the famous Apollo space suits.

Because of its high strength, it is also used in various places other than clothing.

It is used as a material for bags, fishing lines, ropes, and other products that will not break with the slightest pull, regardless of their thickness.

Characteristics of Nylon

There are various types of nylon synthesized from polyamide. Two of the most famous are nylon 6 and nylon 6,6.

Nylon 6 is made through a ring-opening reaction of ε-caprolactam, while nylon 6,6 is made through the polymerization reaction of adipic acid and hexamethylenediamine.

Both nylons are durable, lightweight, stretchable, and moisture-absorbent. However, nylon 6 is often used for daily necessities such as clothing due to its excellent dyeability.

Nylon 6,6, on the other hand, has superior mechanical strength and heat resistance compared to nylon 6. Therefore, it is used for industrial products that require greater strength.

Nylon is as strong as polyester in terms of heat resistance, mechanical strength, and chemical resistance.

However, nylon is superior in moisture absorption and dyeability.

Both characteristics are essential for clothing.

The disadvantage is that they are susceptible to ultraviolet rays, which may cause discoloration if left in sunlight for long periods of time.

Nickel-Cadmium Battery

What Is a Nickel-Cadmium Battery?

Nickel Cadmium Batteries

A nickel-cadmium battery (Ni–Cd battery or NiCad battery) is a type of rechargeable battery that uses cadmium hydroxide for the negative electrode and nickel hydroxide for the positive electrode. It can be charged and discharged.

With a long history of more than a century, these batteries have been used in various places, taking advantage of their qualities, such as the ability to discharge large currents and to withstand repeated use.

In recent years, the use of nickel-cadmium batteries and lithium-ion batteries, which do not contain cadmium and have excellent battery performance, has become mainstream, and the use of nickel-cadmium batteries is on the decline.

Uses of Nickel-Cadmium Batteries

Nickel-cadmium batteries have been used to drive motors for rechargeable tools and vacuum cleaners, and as emergency power sources, taking advantage of their resistance to overcharge and discharge and their ability to discharge large currents.

There are two types of nickel-cadmium batteries: sintered batteries are suitable for driving motors because of their high output discharge capability, and foamed batteries are suitable for power supply applications because of their relatively high capacity.

In the past, they were also used as rechargeable dry-cell batteries. However, since they are not suitable for recharging due to the memory effect, nickel-metal hydride batteries are now the mainstream.

Principle of Nickel-Cadmium Batteries

Nickel-cadmium batteries consist of electrodes and a potassium hydroxide solution as the separator (electrolyte) and have a nominal electromotive force of 1.2V.

When nickel-cadmium batteries discharge, cadmium hydroxide is formed by the reaction of water with cadmium metal at the anode in the presence of hydroxide ions, releasing hydrogen ions and electrons. On the other hand, on the positive electrode side, nickel oxyhydroxide receives hydrogen ions and electrons in the presence of water to produce nickel hydroxide.

During charging, the opposite reaction occurs as in discharging, with cadmium hydroxide receiving electrons and being reduced to cadmium at the anode, and cadmium hydroxide becoming nickel oxyhydroxide in the presence of hydroxide ions at the cathode side, releasing water and electrons.

The electrolyte and electrodes have low internal resistance due to their properties, making them suitable for high-current discharge, and even if over-discharged, performance can be restored by repeated charging and discharging. It is also capable of maintaining a voltage that can withstand use in low-temperature environments of -20 to -40°C.

Structure of Nickel-Cadmium Batteries

There are two types of nickel-cadmium batteries: cylindrical and square.

The cylindrical type consists of a nickel compound as the positive electrode, a separator made of potassium hydroxide and non-fibers, and a cadmium compound plate as the negative electrode, which is stacked and spirally wound together and inserted into an outer can. The anode and cathode contact the negative and positive terminals, respectively (or via current-collecting leads) to output electricity to the outside. In the case of the square type, the structure consists of multiple positive and negative electrode plates facing each other via separators.

The current nickel-cadmium batteries have a structure called a sealed type. When nickel-cadmium batteries were first invented, they were of the open type, but the sealed type eliminated the need for water consumption due to electrolyte decomposition and the associated replenishment fluid when overcharged. In addition, nickel-cadmium batteries are designed so that the capacity of the negative electrode is greater than that of the positive electrode. This means that even when the positive electrode is fully charged, the negative electrode remains in a discharged state, and hydrogen generation at the negative electrode is suppressed as the discharged state absorbs oxygen. This prevents rupture due to increased internal pressure as well as electrolyte consumption. In addition, nickel-cadmium batteries are equipped with a valve to vent gases in the event of an increase in internal pressure.

カテゴリー
category_usa

Nickel

What Is Nickel?

Nickel

Nickel is a metallic element with the element symbol (Ni) and an atomic weight of 58.71.

It is a silvery-white metal with a specific gravity of 8.9 (20°C), a melting point of 1,453°C, a boiling point of 2,730°C, and a coefficient of linear expansion of 13.3 x 10-6/°C. It has good corrosion resistance, excellent ductility, and is easily processed. It has good corrosion resistance, excellent ductility, and is easy to process.

Uses of Nickel

Products containing nickel are all around us. For example, it is used for cookware, medical equipment, cell phones, buildings, and generators.

One of the most important of these is the rechargeable battery used in electronics, emergency power supplies, and electric vehicles. One such battery is the nickel-metal hydride battery. Nickel is used in the positive electrode of these nickel-metal hydride batteries.

Nickel-based cathode active materials are also used in lithium-ion batteries as well as nickel-metal hydride batteries. Although not all cathode active materials used in lithium-ion batteries contain nickel, lithium-ion batteries using nickel-based cathode active materials are the mainstream raw material because it is easy to increase energy density and output.

Characteristics of Nickel

Nickel is particularly resistant to corrosion in freshwater, seawater, and alkaline solutions. While some people have the image that “metals rust easily when immersed in seawater,” nickel can be safely used in seawater because of its strong corrosion resistance.

Nickel is also resistant to corrosion and oxidation. A metal that is strong but weak against corrosion will have durability problems, but the use of nickel can solve these problems. Another feature of nickel is that it can be alloyed with other metals to create a variety of materials.

Since nickel can be alloyed easily, it is crossed with all kinds of metals to create new alloys. It can be processed at relatively low cost, making it an excellent, cost-effective material. Nickel has a melting point of 1,453°C and a very high thermal tolerance. By taking advantage of this property when alloying, heat-resistant alloys can be created.

One of the best-known nickel alloys is nichrome. As the name suggests, this alloy is primarily composed of nickel and chromium, and is used as a heat-generating element due to its high electrical resistance.

Other Information on Nickel

1. Nickel Alloys

Alloys containing nickel typically offer improved corrosion resistance, durability, and strength against temperature changes compared to the original metal-only material, and have a wide range of special magneto-electrical properties. Stainless steel is an alloy of iron, nickel, and chromium and contains approximately 8-12% nickel.

Nickel-based alloys have an even higher nickel content. Nickel alloys are also used to make coins.

2. Compounds Containing Nickel

In addition to forming alloys with other metals, nickel is also industrially produced in inorganic compounds such as nickel oxides and salts with acid components such as sulfuric acid and hydrochloric acid.

Nickel oxide (II)
Chemical formula: NiO, dark yellowish green to gray powder. Insoluble in water, soluble in hydrochloric acid.
Applications: raw material for electronic components, battery electrode materials, catalysts, ceramic products, etc.

Nickel Sulfate
Chemical formula:NiSO4, green crystal or powder. Easily soluble in water, insoluble in ethanol.
Applications: Nickel plating, Nickel catalyst, black coloring agent for zinc and brass, pigment for ceramics, active material raw material for lithium-ion batteries.

Nickel Chloride
Chemical formula: NiCl2, green columnar crystals, monoclinic crystals, deliquescent. Easily soluble in water and alcohol.
Applications: Electroplating, reagent

Nickel Carbonate
Chemical formula: NiCO3, light green crystal or powder. Insoluble in water, soluble in acid.
Uses: catalyst, pigment for ceramics, raw material for Nickel salt, electroplating.

Nickel Nitrate
Chemical formula: Ni(NO3)2, green monoclinic crystals, deliquescent. Soluble in ethanol and ammonia water.
Applications: Raw material for catalysts, metal surface treatment agent, plating material, batteries.

カテゴリー
category_usa

Nitrile Rubber

What Is Nitrile Rubber?

Nitrile Rubber

Nitrile rubber (NBR) is a copolymer of acrylonitrile and butadiene. NBR’s oil and cold resistance vary by changing the composition of acrylonitrile and butadiene. With high nitrile NBR having high oil resistance and low nitrile NBR having excellent cold resistance.

Nitrile rubber is produced through the radical polymerization of acrylonitrile and butadiene, and its physical properties can be changed by adding a third monomer such as divinylbenzene.

Hydrogenated nitrile rubber, in which a portion of NBR is hydrogenated to improve ozone and weather resistance, is also available. For example, the higher the hydrogenation ratio, the higher the Mooney viscosity and solution viscosity.

Uses of Nitrile Rubber

Nitrile rubber (NBR) is a copolymer of acrylonitrile and butadiene. It is also used in disposable rubber gloves for handling organic solvents in laboratory work.

Nitrile rubber is made by increasing the acrylonitrile composition to increase oil resistance, and by increasing the butadiene composition to increase cold resistance. For example, high-nitrile NBR is used for parts in the petrochemical industry that require oil resistance, while low-nitrile NBR is used for parts that require cold resistance, such as aircraft parts and cold-weather gaskets.

Nitrile Rubber Manufacturing Process

Nitrile rubber is obtained by copolymerizing acrylonitrile and butadiene. NBR is obtained by radical polymerization, and peroxide is used as a polymerization initiator.

Nitrile rubber can easily change the monomer composition in rubber by changing the amount of acrylonitrile and butadiene monomers during polymerization. A third monomer can also be incorporated into NBR by adding it during polymerization. For example, NBR with improved extrudability by introducing divinylbenzene, which acts as a cross-linking agent, and NBR with improved strength by copolymerizing isoprene has been commercialized.

Hydrogenation of Nitrile Rubber

Nitrile rubber has double bonds in the molecule and is inferior in ozone and weather resistance. To overcome these disadvantages, hydrogenated nitrile rubber, in which the double bond is converted to a single bond by hydrogenating NBR, has been commercialized.

Note that since nitrile rubber also contains cyano groups, only the double bonds between the carbons in the main chain need to be selectively hydrogenated. For example, a metal catalyst such as palladium is used for the hydrogenation reaction. The physical properties of hydrogenated nitrile rubber depend on the ratio of hydrogenated double bonds. For example, the higher the hydrogenation ratio, the higher the Mooney viscosity and solution viscosity.

カテゴリー
category_usa

Neodymium Magnet

What Is a Neodymium Magnet?

Neodymium Magnets

A neodymium magnet is a permanent magnet that is classified as a rare earth magnet and consists mainly of neodymium, iron, and boron. The main composition is Nd2Fe14B (Nd: neodymium, Fe: iron, B: boron). It has the strongest magnetic force of any permanent magnet on the market. Its magnetic force reaches 6 to 10 times that of ferrite magnets.

Neodymium, the raw material for a neodymium magnet, is considered to be relatively abundant among rare earths and is inexpensive among rare earth magnets in terms of cost. A decade ago, neodymium magnets were used for industrial applications. However, in recent years, they can be purchased at dollar stores and are also used in ordinary households.

Uses of Neodymium Magnets

Neodymium magnets are used in many situations due to their small size and large magnetic force. Neodymium magnets are used in motors, solenoids, and other power sources, contributing to miniaturization. Neodymium magnets are also used in the magnetic circuits of speakers, which also play a role in miniaturization.

Cell phones and smartphones have built-in speakers, and motors are used to vibrate incoming calls. These devices have become smaller because of the use of neodymium magnets, which are small and have strong magnetic forces.

Motors using neodymium magnets are also used in electric vehicles. They are used in various parts of automobiles, including wheel speed sensors, engine rotation sensors, ignition coils (high-voltage generators for engine ignition), speedometers, and tachometers.

In general households, they are used for hook parts of the type held by magnets, which can hold small but heavy objects. As shown above, they are widely used in fields where smaller and higher-performance products are required.

Characteristics of Neodymium Magnets

The outstandingly strong magnetic force is a characteristic of neodymium magnets. Compared to ferrite magnets, neodymium magnets have more than six times the magnetic force, making them the best among the several types of rare earth magnets.

The mechanical strength of neodymium magnets is relatively strong, and they are resistant to cracking and chipping. However, it is less resistant to heat than other magnets. Heat-induced demagnetization is significant, and the Curie temperature at which the magnet loses its magnetic force is around 300°C. However, neodymium magnets with good temperature characteristics can be produced by adding additives such as terbium or dysprosium. In addition, by refining the crystal grains, neodymium magnets with good temperature characteristics can be produced even with a small amount (or no additives). The practical heat resistance temperature of neodymium magnets is about 60 to 80°C. However, some heat-resistant neodymium magnets that have been processed as described above can be used up to about 200°C.

Another characteristic of neodymium magnets is that they rust easily. Since the magnetic force decreases when the surface rusts, a coating such as nickel plating is usually applied.

Cautions for Handling Neodymium Magnets

Due to its strong magnetic force, it is necessary to consider the effect on the surrounding environment. If neodymium magnets are placed close to a magnetic card or precision instrument, it may have an adverse effect, such as data corruption.

Also, when using multiple neodymium magnets, care must be taken to avoid pinching the skin of the fingers, as the magnets are attracted to each other by a strong magnetic force. When removing attached magnets, slide them in parallel rather than pulling them unnecessarily, so that they can be safely removed with relatively little force. Even though they are very strong, they may chip or crack due to the impact of vigorous adsorption.

Neodymium magnets are susceptible to rust, and even if they are plated, rust can develop under conditions such as moisture.