Latest CNC Hardware Technical Articles

In this article, we will take a look at the differences between synchronous and induction motors, as well as the two…

In this article, we will take a look at the differences between synchronous and induction motors, as well as the two types of induction motors: squirrel cage and wound rotor.

Robots are no longer unanimously just "robots"—there are specific tasks and functionality of each kind. Learn about the…

Robots are no longer unanimously just "robots"—there are specific tasks and functionality of each kind. Learn about the technology differences between fixed-location robots and mobile robots and why no one robot is like another.

The diverse power terms in electrical generation systems include active, reactive, and apparent power, all of which lead…

The diverse power terms in electrical generation systems include active, reactive, and apparent power, all of which lead to the introduction of ‘power factor’ effectiveness in an AC circuit.

Learn about the common applications, programming procedures, and safety protocols of collaborative robot work cells,…

Learn about the common applications, programming procedures, and safety protocols of collaborative robot work cells, which are often simpler and less expensive than industrial robot work cells.  

Our own Control Automation engineering staff had the opportunity to visit VersaBuilt, a CNC robotic integration shop…

Our own Control Automation engineering staff had the opportunity to visit VersaBuilt, a CNC robotic integration shop offering an application system from the Universal Robots UR+ series.

AC motors are common throughout industry - easily controlled by VFDs and without the maintenance that comes with DC…

AC motors are common throughout industry - easily controlled by VFDs and without the maintenance that comes with DC brushes. So then, why are DC motors still used in certain applications?

We've read about the capabilities of collaborative robots, but often, one question still remains - how do you program a…

We've read about the capabilities of collaborative robots, but often, one question still remains - how do you program a cobot? Last week, I got a chance to get my hands on a cobot for the first time.

One of the most visible elements of industrial safety is the use of lock-out-tag-out (LOTO) devices, familiar to those…

One of the most visible elements of industrial safety is the use of lock-out-tag-out (LOTO) devices, familiar to those with experience. But, if you are new to the workforce, a brief introduction may be helpful.

The welder shortage is continuing to grow. Are cobots the answer to help relieve the welder shortage gap?

The welder shortage is continuing to grow. Are cobots the answer to help relieve the welder shortage gap?

As digital transformation continues to rise, technologies such as 3D printing also skyrocket. What is the relationship…

As digital transformation continues to rise, technologies such as 3D printing also skyrocket. What is the relationship between these terms, and how can 3D printing help manufacturers and shops on their journey toward digital transformation?

Each machine on the factory floor comes with risk; learn common safety risks and corresponding automation solutions.

Each machine on the factory floor comes with risk; learn common safety risks and corresponding automation solutions.

Start learning about robotic arm solution, kinematic chain and motion planning, in this first technical installment.

Start learning about robotic arm solution, kinematic chain and motion planning, in this first technical installment.

Learn about how various types of robots are currently being deployed in the automotive sector and some of the challenges…

Learn about how various types of robots are currently being deployed in the automotive sector and some of the challenges they face on the factory floor.

For many manufacturing processes, Cartesian robots work well. However, there are times with a robot with more movement…

For many manufacturing processes, Cartesian robots work well. However, there are times with a robot with more movement capabilities works better. Learn about six-axis robots, how they move, and popular applications.

Learn about how Hall-effect sensors are used in linear and electric motor applications, including brushed and brushless…

Learn about how Hall-effect sensors are used in linear and electric motor applications, including brushed and brushless DC motors. 

This article offers an introduction to cartesian (gantry) robots, including how they work and the applications they're…

This article offers an introduction to cartesian (gantry) robots, including how they work and the applications they're created for.

In this article, learn the differences between single- and three-phase motors, including how each one works and…

In this article, learn the differences between single- and three-phase motors, including how each one works and applications best suited for each type.

To increase the flexibility of a motor control system, a variable frequency drive (VFD) is a common device that solves…

To increase the flexibility of a motor control system, a variable frequency drive (VFD) is a common device that solves many motor control problems. In this article, learn how to control manual input of VFDs.

This article introduces the concept of Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) and discusses some common uses for CAM for…

This article introduces the concept of Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) and discusses some common uses for CAM for controls and automation specialists.