EuroWire November 2023

Products

Metal-detectable cable tie compounds to streamline supply chain

Constant force extension springs are produced from flat strip material and coiled using proprietary processes to a definite curvature, in order to provide the required force output. The springs can offer long linear deflections and unique force characteristics, with constant rate, positive rate or negative rate over the working deflection. There is practically no limit to the rate of extension or acceleration, and the springs can be attached and partially or fully extended in a variety of ways. The springs are typically mounted so that the coil body is fixed but free to rotate material performs as intended right out of the box.” Both the United States and the European Union have strict performance requirements for materials used in and around food and drug processing facilities. As a PA66 producer, Ascend ensures the consistent dispersion of the metal additive within the polymer matrix so that even small metal particles are clearly visible and identified with standard detection equipment. In tests with varying-sized cable tie fragments added to cereal flakes, even the smallest fragment was reliably detected using X-ray imaging with a micro-focus tube at 60kV and 0.3mA.

Alcomex Springs is offering its expertise in the constant force spring – a solution that is more compact and lighter than many other methods of return or retraction, making it suitable for a range of industries. The constant force spring is designed to provide a smooth and constant load over its entire length of travel, eliminating the need for dead weights, linkages, cylinders and other systems. This feature alone can decrease the size and cost of devices, making it an option for manufacturers looking to optimise their products. Ascend Performance Materials has launched pre-coloured, metal-detectable Vydyne® PA66 compounds for cable ties and fasteners, for industries where foreign object contamination causes health concerns and reputational damage, such as in pharmaceutical and food processing facilities. The new products meet stringent performance standards and simplify the supply chain for cable tie and fastener producers. “We constantly look for ways to better serve our customers,” said Tim Goossens, cable tie segment leader for Ascend. “This new metal-detectable Vydyne reduces the need for additional tolling or masterbatch steps and ensures the

The new compounds provide safety against contamination in cable tie applications

Metal-detectable Vydyne materials are globally available and offered in two blue-coloured grades with high- and low impact strength. In addition to cable ties and fasteners, both grades target safety-critical applications in other sensitive market segments, such as machined plastic stock shapes, and any consumables that require HACCP-managed food safety. Ascend Performance Materials www.ascendmaterials.com

Technical advantages of constant force springs

(either on a shaft or in a slot) and the outer end of the coil is deflected. Alternatively the outer end of the coil can be fixed, while the coil body is deflected. Alcomex constant force springs and assemblies are used in applications across various industries. For example, for the aeronautics industry the company develops jet and cargo door opening and closing assistance systems, which are critical for ensuring the safety and efficiency of air travel. In the green energy sector, the company is working on cable retraction assistance solutions for electric vehicle chargers, enabling more convenient and efficient charging. It also provides solutions for the POS, defence, equipment and health industries, among others. Alcomex is able to produce custom springs and sub-assemblies tailored to meet specific needs. Its team of experts is ready to collaborate with clients, providing guidance and support in developing solutions. Alcomex Springs www.alcomexsprings.com

Constant force extension springs

EF 8/56

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November 2023