Product category:
Ballscrews, Linear Guides, Jacks, Dampers
News Release from: HepcoMotion | Subject: DLS Driven Linear System
Edited by the Engineeringtalk Editorial
Team on 29 June 2000
Linear slide for smooth approach to bomb
disposal
MOS Cold Cutting of West Yorkshire has developed a range of hydro abrasive cutting systems for bomb disposal systems, featuring Hepco's Driven Linear System for smooth motion
It is widely accepted that 20% of the bombs dropped in warfare do not explode on impact The safe diffusion and disposal of these UXBs not only demands immense bravery but also equipment that is 100% accurate and reliable
It is precisely for applications such as these where there is considerable risk of explosion that MOS Cold Cutting of West Yorkshire has developed a range of hydro abrasive cutting systems, all of which are manufactured to stringent military standards.
These systems are designed to flush cut through all known materials without heat or sparks and are now used throughout the world by bomb disposal crews.
The smooth movement and positioning of the system's cutting heads along the body of the bomb is of course critical and for this reason, MOS has selected Hepco's Driven Linear System (DLS) to perform the task.
The MOS systems which have this linear motion feature are the three Multipro models.
They respectively offer various cutting options and grades of programming sophistication.
All are designed to sit on a rectangular box system above the unexploded ordnance.
The nature of its job requires the Multipro to operate in hostile conditions, albeit in the city, the jungle or the desert.
The engineering components that are chosen for the system must therefore be exceptionally robust.
Not only do they need to operate reliably in climatic extremes but also to withstand contact with the Multipro's abrasive cutting fluids.
Typically a Multipro will use 11 litres of water and abrasives per application.
"We didn't want the cheapest linear motion system, we wanted the best and the utmost reliable," explained MD Steven Tempest-Mitchell.
"The aesthetics of the product was also important.
If it looks like a Rolls Royce it's easier to sell on quality." The Hepco product selected by MOS was DLS3 slide mounted onto an SB beam.
To ensure no sparks are produced during the process, the unit is either hydraulically or air driven.
The Hepco 'V' guide principle employed by DLS offers unrivalled reliability in demanding applications.
Smooth, almost frictionless movement is assured.
The MOS units were supplied with cap-wipers to prevent ingress of dirt and provide positive lubrication; typically this extends system life by a factor of 25.
The only modification that M.O.S.
has made to the design is the introduction of a hosing system to drain any cutting fluid away from the sealed unit.
For longevity, stainless steel bearings were specified for the initial DLS units but now MOS is finding Hepco's standard steel bearings are providing a cost saving option without compromising performance.
Such savings will allow the company to respond more cost-effectively to calls from charity organisations whose budgets for explosive ordnance disposal equipment are relatively limited.
"DLS continues to work very well for us," concludes Steven Tempest Mitchell.
"We train our customers to strip down the Multipro after every five applications. Request a free brochure from HepcoMotion ...
And I can confirm we have had no reports of any deterioration in performance quality after repeated use.".
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