It’s been years since roller coasters used the original, simple design from 1864, when the first Roller Coaster was commissioned.

As more and more customers have flooded into parks worldwide, safety has become paramount.

Operators need to maintain a careful balance between throughput and safety and are required to comply with many rules and regulations. For these reasons, the importance of excellent brakes, sensors, and blocks cannot be understated.

What are Blocks and Sensors?

Roller coasters are divided up into sections called blocks. Each block is separated by a braking point. The blocks are designed to keep two trains from being in the same block at the same time.

Sensors work with the roller coaster block system to keep track of where each train is. These sensors, usually inductive, work off proximity. If, by some chance, two trains reach the same block at the same time, the sensors signal the brakes to stop the rearmost train.

How Roller Coaster Brakes Work

Whether you’re talking about wooden coasters or the more modern stainless-steel version, the basic concept is the same. Stopping a roller coaster relies mostly on friction applied at the right time and with the right force.

Roller coaster components work together to slow trains down at the right time and allow them to speed up again. Different styles of brake are used depending on what the situation demands.

Broadly speaking, roller coaster brakes fall into two categories – Trim and Block.

Trim brakes slow trains down but do not stop them – they “trim” speed from the train. A roller coaster block system stops trains, typically to stop them from impacting others at the station or entering a section that already has a train in it.

There are also several types of brakes that fall into these categories.

Fin Brakes

These brakes hang down over the rails of the track. They squeeze using a carefully controlled hydraulic system, closing on metal fins on the underside of the train. The friction caused gradually slows down the train.

Fin Brakes should be inspected daily. Inspections should ensure they are firmly fixed to the train and have a good braking surface.

Magnetic Brakes

These are usually made up of two rows of magnets that interact with a magnetic fin behind the train. The eddy forces generated push against the direction of the train, causing it to slow.

Due to the physics of the magnetic force, these brakes cannot be used to stop the train completely. This usually means that a fin brake is fitted alongside to halt the train completely.

Skid Brakes

You would expect to find skid brakes on an older roller coaster braking system. They use large ceramic plates that rise and push against the bottom of the track.

Their use has mostly fallen out of fashion over time, not being fitted to newly constructed systems.

Quality Safety Requires Quality Components

Coaster brakes and sensors are the lynchpins of safety when it comes to roller coasters. It’s important to ensure you’re performing regular maintenance and installing good quality components.

For all your requirements, don’t hesitate to contact us today, and our qualified sales personnel will get in touch to help you find exactly what you need.

You undoubtedly take your ski lift maintenance seriously. That’s why keeping the ski lift brakes up to code is essential.

Ski lifts use a complex motor-driven conveyor system to transport riders safely uphill. Hundreds of thousands of dollars each year go into the maintenance of ski lifts to ensure their safety and compliance with state and federal inspection requirements.

You don’t want to let lift maintenance fall behind. New technology continues to improve the functionality of ski lift systems. Keep reading to learn more about the importance of lift maintenance.

Lift Maintenance Year Round

You understand the year-round hard work to ensure ski lifts are up to code. However, no one knows a resort’s ski lifts like its lift mechanic! That’s why when repairs are needed; you want the best replacement parts to keep the lifts running smoothly year-round.

After a long winter season of non-stop use, ski lifts endure a lot of wear and tear. Plus, if you plan to run the lifts year-round, you probably need to replace the breaks. 

Ski Lift Types

Different types of chairlifts can determine the kind of maintenance needed. The most common is the fixed-grip lift, where the chairs are welded onto the cable. 

Detachable lifts have chairlifts clamped onto the cable, meaning they can be removed from the cable. This is a more stable design. It also allows the chairs to slow down for loading and unloading.

Plus, the detachable lifts can move at faster speeds. High-speed lifts are the way of the future. They can improve resort guests’ overall experience.

How Chairlifts Work

A chairlift is suspended from a cable above and pulled up the mountain using a hydraulic tensioning system. The cable passes over compression towers that are at regular intervals up the mountainside. 

At least two terminals on either side of the chairlift have a bullwheel to direct the cable or rope around the wheel. The primary braking system is located at the base terminal or a drive bullwheel.

The top of the mountain usually has the return bullwheel, although these can sometimes be switched around. The cable is tensioned to account for variations in temperature, as well as the weight of passengers.

This is maintained by either hydraulic rams or a counterweight system that automatically adjusts the position of the bullwheel carriage. 

Ski Lift Brakes

The brakes on a ski lift are critical to its functionality and safety. Therefore, ski lift components include safety and backup systems that rely on functioning brakes. For example, the drive bullwheel has an emergency brake, a service brake, and an anti-rollback device.

It is rare for ski lift accidents, but if they do, they can be devastating. You may remember the incidents at the Sugarloaf resort in Maine. In one instance, the ski lift began to move backward after a series of unfortunate mechanical failures.

It started when the drive shaft broke. Next, a faulty switch caused the anti-rollback system to malfunction and not lock the lift in place. Then the emergency braking system failed to activate automatically.

These incidents, including a cable failing in high winds, are due to aging infrastructure of chairlifts built in the 1970s and 1980s. Sugarloaf spent $1.5 million on lift repair and replacement costs, along with the cost of legal claims from the injured skiers and riders.

In addition to replacing older chairlifts, workers drained the oil from the gearboxes on all of the lifts and meticulously examined components for excessive wear using a scope.

Lift Maintenance Must-Do’s

Does your lift maintenance need an upgrade? Don’t cut corners when it comes to replacing vital ski lift parts. You know the complexity of operating ski lifts, so you can never be too careful!

It might be time for a ski-lift brake overhaul. Check out our complete supply here.

The global paper and pulp market is set to reach $370 billion by 2028.

That market — which makes everything from receipts and catalog paper to post-it notes and paper-based packaging — relies heavily on several types of bearings. Moreover, papermaking machines require these bearings to run well.

Importance of Bearings in Papermaking Machinery

Papermaking machines have three main areas:

• A wet end section that pulls the bulk of water and moisture out of the pulp
• A drying section that removes the remaining moisture
• A finishing section that ensures a standard smoothness, thickness, and glossiness to the paper

The conversion of wet pulp into dry paper relies on those three sections working together. Moreover, those three sections rely on bearings to keep the rolls, gears, motors, rope sheaves, and other equipment functioning correctly. 

All paper industry bearings are manufactured to work toward a long bearing life, an excellent limiting speed, and quality bearing materials that can withstand high temperatures. 

Types of Bearings in the Papermaking Industry

Paper industry bearings come in four main types: spherical roller, tapered roller, cylindrical roller, and ball bearing. 

Spherical Roller Bearings

Spherical roller bearings are the most commonly used bearings in the papermaking industry. Therefore, they’re critical to the success of the three main sections. 

In the wet section, they’re used in forming rolls, suction rolls, center press rolls, and anti-deflection rolls. In the dryer section, both guide rolls and dryer rolls use them. Lastly, the calendar rolls of the finishing section use spherical roller bearings.

Typically made of chrome steel with a cage of brass, polyamide, or sheet steel, the spherical roller bearings can support both radial and axial loads.  

Tapered Roller Bearings

Tapered roller bearings are often used for secondary processes and equipment such as pumps, gears, and pulpers.

Also made from chrome steel, these bearings can function well at high temperatures and speeds. In addition, they can support significant axial, radial, and combination loads. 

Cylindrical Roller Bearings

Cylindrical roller bearings are not widely used in papermaking machinery. However, they’re sometimes customized to fit special operations. 

Most are made from low-carbon steel or alloy and can operate with heavy radial loads at moderate speed.

Ball Bearings 

Ball bearings come in two main types: deep groove and angular contact. 

Both bearings tend to be used in secondary equipment such as gears, pulpers, and winders. However, the deep groove ball bearings are often used in the spreader rolls of the finishing section.

Often made of chrome steel, they can accommodate radial, axial, and combination loads at various speeds. 

Learn More About Bearings 

The paper industry relies on several types of bearings to make the products that people and businesses use daily. Therefore, knowing about the structure and function of each bearing is essential to the overall success of papermaking machines.

The next step is sourcing suitable bearings. Contact Kor-Pak to find out how we can help.

Kor-Pak Corporation is a world leader in railcar parts and components. We manufacture an extensive product line that meets or exceeds all industry standards.

What Our Catalog Has to Offer

Our railcar parts catalog offers a comprehensive selection of products that can meet the needs of any railcar operator. We have everything from brake shoes and pads to couplers and draft gears.

We also carry a diverse range of replacement parts for railcars. So whether you need a new door, railing, or headlight, we have the parts you need to keep your railcar in top condition.

Featured Railcar Parts

In addition to our railcar parts, we also offer a full line of railway products. So we have the products you need and want to keep your railway running smoothly from track infrastructure to locomotives.

Some of the featured railcar parts in our catalog include:

Brake Shoes and Pads

We offer a variety of brake pads, including RPAD07A, RPAD08A, RPAD09A, and more.

Couplers

We list four types of couplers: the AAR Type E, Janney Type E, Cast Steel Knuckle, and Integral Casting Knuckle. All of these couplers are made from cast steel for strength and durability.

The AAR Type E is designed for use with AAR Type F threadless trucks, while the Janney Type E is used with Janney Type F threaded trucks. In addition, the Cast Steel Knuckle is for use with AAR Type E and Janney Type E knuckle couplers. Finally, the Integral Casting Knuckle is also used with AAR Type E and Janney Type E knuckle couplers.

Draft Gears

We list six different kinds of draft gears. Each is designed for a specific purpose.

The Econo Gear is an essential gear that is simple and easy to install. The Heavy Duty Gear is designed for heavier rail cars and can withstand more wear and tear. In addition, the lube-for-life gear is maintenance-free and does not require lubrication.

The frictionless gear is designed for high-speed rail cars and reduces friction for a smoother ride. In addition, the anti-hunting gear helps to keep rail cars from derailing, and the auto-lubricating gear is self-lubricating for easy maintenance. With such a variety to choose from, it’s easy to find the perfect draft gear for any rail car.

Our railcar parts catalog is a comprehensive resource covering all of the railcars’ significant parts and components. It includes the dimensions, weights, and materials used for each piece. The catalog also contains photographs and illustrations to aid in identifying parts.

Where to Get Your Copy

The steady resurgence of the railroad industry is evident. Browse our railcar parts catalog today and see what we have to offer. Visit our website to learn more about our railcar parts catalog and other railway products. Get your copy today!

Did you know that Kevlar was first utilized in racing tires in the 1970s as a substitute for heavy steel? Stephanie Kwolek, an American chemist, invented it.

Kevlar materials in various applications, ranging from commercial products to industrial technologies and body armor, are the primary driver of the global Kevlar market’s expansion.

Kevlar is a composite material that has a specific chemical composition. It’s a member of the aramid family of fibers.

Kevlar’s distinguishing characteristics include tensile strength, heat resistance, lightweight, specific stiffness, and wear resistance. Because of these properties, it’s used to produce a wide range of industries. Learn more below.

What Are Kevlar Materials?

Kevlar is a para-aramid-like poly para-phenylene terephthalate (PPD-T). The structure comprises benzene rings responsible for the high thermal conductivity and para substitutions, resulting in increased strength and modulus.

Fiber filaments are molded during the spinning of the starting material. The non-uniform properties of the extruded shaft para-aramid structure are very high. The axial direction has higher strength and stiffness, and the transverse direction has lower strength and stiffness.

How Is Kevlar Manufactured?

In a condensation reaction, you create Kevlar by combining 1,4- PPD-T and terephthalic acid. Because of the existence of aromatic rings on amine groups, it forms a shaft-like structure with a high melting temperature and low solubility.

The polymer chains are joined together by hydrogen bonding. The makeup of the fiber structure is of smooth-oriented molecules that are parallel to each other. These form a crystalline nature likened to synthetic plastic.    

Fibers are made by melting PPD-T solution and spinning it through a nozzle, then chilling it to solidify it.

Induction heated extruders heat the solution to the necessary viscosity. Then, from a nozzle, the melt enters an air-cooled stream. Here it solidifies into a thread.

These threads are then spun into a yarn. Finally, this yarn is wound onto spindles used for several different applications.

Kevlar Applications

Kevlar’s outstanding and one-of-a-kind properties allow it to be used in various applications. The worldwide market for kevlar encompasses:

• The consumer market – includes the communication market, sportswear, clothing, surfboards, etc.
• The auto industry – tires, gaskets, brake pads, car armor, hoses, etc.
• Industrial uses – helmets, belts, protective gear, etc.
• Electronic and telecommunication industry 
• Agriculture and farming sector

The various applications are:

• Defense and ballistics
• Materials used in aircraft structural components
• Automotive hoses and belts for heating and cooling systems
• Cables made of fiber optics and electromechanical components
• Gaskets and friction products
• Sealants and adhesives
• Automobile and aircraft protective clothing

As you can see, the high strength of Kevlar has many benefits in our day-to-day lives. 

Give Me Strength!

We all benefit from some of nature’s most remarkable materials, such as Kevlar materials, whether directly or indirectly.

As we have shown, Kevlar is a multifunctional material. As a result, it’s used everywhere, from mundane to insane, from aircraft to car tires.

Why not use Kevlar products in your next large project? Contact us now to get your quote. We will get back to you promptly!

Projections show that the global aramid fiber market will reach a value of $1.4 billion by 2027.

Aramid fibers offer a range of benefits and suit various applications because of their unique properties. For example, Kevlar is one of the most popular aramid fibers available — but what is Kevlar? And why is it so useful?

What Is Kevlar?

Kevlar is a material that’s well known for its incredible strength-to-weight ratio. It’s plastic but far stronger than many plastics we see in everyday applications. This is due to its molecular structure as well as the way its fibers are woven together.

There are two types available: Kevlar 29 and Kevlar 49. The DuPont chemical company manufactures both.

Benefits of Kevlar

The unique benefit of kevlar is its strength relative to its weight. When compared to steel wire, the specific tensile strength of Kevlar is over eight times higher.

Kevlar materials are far more heat-resistant than other plastics. It can be exposed to extreme temperatures and will only start to break down at around 850°F (450°C). Kevlar can be ignited, but it will stop burning once you remove the heat source.

Kevlar also does well in low temperatures. DuPont has tested it at temperatures as low as -320°F (-196°C) and found it had little to no effect.

Extended chemical exposure can cause Kevlar to degrade, but it can easily resist chemical attacks without any issues. DuPont has also tested how it reacts to moisture and found that 200 days of exposure to hot water had essentially no effect on it.

Kevlar also works well as a friction material due to its low wear rate, low abrasion rate, and impressive oil resistance. In addition, it has good friction properties even when wet and will not wear or rub a metal surface that it’s in contact with.

Kevlar Applications

The most well-known use is Kevlar protection in stab-proof and bulletproof vests. This is because the incredible strength makes them difficult to penetrate, and the low weight makes it easy for the wearer to move around.

It’s used for various vehicle applications, such as reinforcement in tires and parts of car bodies. Boat and aircraft bodies also sometimes include Kevlar components.

The strength-to-weight ratio is perfect for sports equipment. There are many Kevlar uses in the sporting world such as:

• Skis and snowboards
• The inner lining of bicycle tires
• Interior of ping pong paddles
• Basketball shoes

Kevlar is sometimes used in buildings and structures, but only in specific areas. Despite its impressive tensile strength, it has a low compressive strength, so it isn’t suitable as a primary structural material.

The friction properties of Kevlar make it perfect for use in brakes. It can replace other materials and last much longer in the same conditions. In addition, it provides smooth clutch engagement and won’t be affected by moisture.

The Possibilities of Kevlar

You’re no longer wondering, “what is Kevlar used for?” and may already know how it can benefit you. The uses above are just some of the more common uses, but there are plenty more. The strength, heat resistance, and flexibility make it a very versatile material.

Kor-Pak supplies high-quality friction materials serving a range of industries. If you have any questions about what we offer, click here to contact us today.

Before the late 1820s, transporting valuable goods across a rapidly growing United States was a time-consuming and costly process. Freight carried via boats worked only along coastal regions, and horse-drawn carts were dependent on the endurance of the individual animals, limiting the amount they could carry.

With the industrial revolution came the introduction of railroads and trains. This created a way of not only transporting people across the United States but products at a previously unseen scale and speed.

Today freight railroad services are still the go-to method of moving freight. However, with constant use comes wear and tear that, if left unchecked, can have devastating results.

Read on for information on some of the most valuable rail parts to keep in top shape.

Brake Pads

Arguably the most crucial part of any locomotive is its brakes. Relying on the friction of a metal pad pressing up against a railcar’s wheels, even the highest quality of emergency brakes can take over a mile to stop a train going 55 miles per hour.

As friction stops a railcar’s wheels, those in the freight railroad industry need to be on top of how much use a brake pad has gotten. It’s recommended to replace brake pads once they have seen 25,000 to 65,000 miles. Then, depending on the type of brake pad and railcar used, they can be easily examined, serviced, or replaced.

Rubber Parts

Rubber is a valuable part of both railcars and railways. Providing extra friction on brake pads, insulating against extreme temperatures, and adding a little extra shock absorption proves itself in various uses. 

Rubber parts can come in various forms, pure rubber gathered from a natural source, synthetic rubber from a lab, or rubber mixed with other materials to add to its sturdy nature.

Picking the correct type of rubber for the job is a necessity. For instance, does something need to last for as long as possible — use natural rubber.

Is the part in question need to be flexible and can be replaced often?

Synthetic is the best option.

With the availability of custom products, finding the right type of rubber is as simple as a consultation.

Maintenance on Freight Railroad Parts

Having a strict schedule of maintenance and checkups on a freight train is a must. It allows you to spot and prevent debilitating issues soon. Replacing the rubber pedestal liners, keeping an eye on parts being worn down by friction, and staying on top of any minor fixes that need doing may be tedious but can save thousands of dollars in the long run.

When Replacements Are Necessary

Even with constant observation and maintenance, there will come a time when a part will need to be replaced. For example, perhaps a brake pad reached the end of its lifecycle or a rubber liner finally broke. A prompt replacement will be needed to ensure your freight railroad locomotive can continue its job.

The Kor-Pak Corporation has your back in any of these situations. With our catalog of parts for any type of locomotive and special custom orders available on-demand, we can get you what you need. So check out our catalog today!

According to the National Mining Association, America uses approximately 3.4 tons and 40,000 pounds of newly mined material annually.  

Here are four tools essential to the mining industry.

1. Mining Drills

No mining application is complete without the appropriate mining drills. There are two primary types of drills used in a mining business:

• Rotary drill rigs
• Percussion/hammer drills

A rotary drill rig creates holes in rocks and soil. This way, your laborers have an opening in which to place charges. These drills use a bit that turns under pressure, cutting into solid rock. 

In contrast, a hammer drill uses pressure to shove its bit into the ground. Then, it uses compressed air to blow dirt out of the way. This way, the bit can continue to strike the new ground at all times. 

2. Electric Rope Shovels for Mining Applications

Electric rope shovels offer a twist on standard hydraulic rope shovels. These tools use a series of ropes and pulleys to dig. The arm of the shovel uses electricity to operate. 

These tools can perform several mining applications, including:

• Digging through hard materials
• Moving earth
• Eliminating boulders
• Transferring materials to another loader
• Transporting mined materials

When looking for electric rope shovels, ensure they use efficient brakes and clutches. A braking system is crucial for these tools.

3. Blasting Tools

There are a variety of different types of blasting tools. Some may be more appropriate for one kind of mining than another. 

For example, surface mines often use a mixture of ammonium nitrate and fuel oil for their blasting tools. This combination often goes by the name of ANFO. 

There are also six types of controlled blasting techniques in mining. These include:

• Line drilling
• Trim blasting
• Buffer blasting
• Smooth wall blasting
• Air decking
• Presplitting

So, consider your blasting technique as you search for the necessary tools. 

4. Mining Trucks

Finally, every mine needs mining trucks to move materials. These essential mining tools come in several models.

For example, you can find large mining trucks with robust mechanical models to move your materials. Or, you can use eco-friendly, electric models for your mining operation. 

Find the Tools You Need Today!

As you can see, several tools exist for each various mining application. 

Check out our products to find the solutions you need. 

Have you ever considered what materials make up the parts you purchase? All of them bring different benefits and can serve multiple purposes. 

An industrial material refers to any substances used to make goods, such as machinery and tools. For example, the building materials industry is responsible for mining, quarrying, and processing raw materials. Meanwhile, the material handling industry is vital for movement, storage, control, and protection. 

In some cases, companies perform both distribution and fabrication.

But what are the different types of industrial materials, and how are they all used differently?

1. Supplies and Consumables

Supplies and consumables are one category of industrial material that all industries use. These supplies include coal, natural gas, electricity, and other forms of fuel. 

In particular, the steel industries use a lot of coal for their furnaces. In addition, restaurants and charcoal makers burn wood in their daily operations.

The oil industry is one of the most well-known that capitalizes on producing fuel oil and gasoline. However, you can also find petroleum used for other purposes, such as creating plastic and synthetic materials. These plastics can then be turned into industrial friction material or even used in the construction industry. 

2. Ores and Minerals

Ores and minerals are other industrial materials used for various products. For example, raw materials in this group are smelted down or otherwise converted into parts that go into building machinery, tools, and more. 

Lead, tin, copper, and iron are some common ores consumed by industries worldwide.

Computers manufacturers use copper wire along with plastics and other metals. Food cans are often made of either steel, aluminum, or tin alloy. The hammers used by construction workers are made of high carbon, heat-treated steel. 

Furthermore, the properties of an end product like steel depend on its carbon content, allows, and heat treatment. Low carbon steels have higher toughness and ductility, while the high carbon variety has lower toughness and ductility. However, tensile strength increases with higher carbon content. 

3. Organic Natural Resources

While organic natural resources like crops are often used in the food industry, you can also find them in other areas. For example, the lumber industry uses millions of trees every year for lumber that goes into making paper, fuel, and building material. In addition, rubber trees produce raw latex, which is used in different types of rubber products. 

Although bamboo isn’t technically wood, it is commonly used for scaffolding in countries where it’s a natural resource. Some industries also use insects as raw materials for things like color pigments. 

Industrial Material Turned Into Parts

At Kor-Pak, we partner with all the best industrial equipment manufacturers, from Aeromotive to Yale Hoist. As a result, you can find parts for the agriculture and farming industries, the iron and steel industries, and more. 

Contact us if you have any questions and look at our products online. 

Companies need to use industrial equipment for operations. That equipment will go through wear and tear. 

Maintaining industrial equipment helps it last longer. You can preserve the value of your equipment instead of hunting for a replacement too soon.

As employees use this equipment, it will eventually become unsafe. Poorly updated equipment can lead to injuries and death. Proper maintenance will keep your workers safe. 

It’s vital to maintain your industrial equipment. We’ll share three industrial equipment maintenance tips to get you started.

1. Monitor Your Industrial Equipment Daily

You can only make improvements in an area if you actively track it. Monitoring industrial equipment usage helps you identify equipment that needs updating.

Equipment maintenance also helps you identify unskilled handlers. Equipment will break down through overuse. Poor handling can exasperate your equipment’s downtrend.

You can consult with less-skilled workers to use the equipment properly. You can provide them with a training course or manual. If the handler continues to use the equipment poorly, consider a replacement.

Poor handling hurts your equipment’s value. It also creates a future safety hazard for your workers. Monitoring electrical cranes and other equipment will help with safety and preserving value.

You can monitor industrial equipment usage through GPS devices. These devices track movement and digitally record the data.

2. Schedule Maintenance for Your Equipment

Even the best handlers will contribute to breakdowns in your equipment. You can only avoid breakdowns by never using the equipment. Unfortunately, this condition is unrealistic for many companies.

However, some equipment wears down quicker than others. Your workers also use some equipment more frequently than others.

GPS devices can track this data, but you need to do something with the data. For example, companies can review data and schedule maintenance sessions based on usage and duration.

Frequent inspections help you identify the wear and corrosion before they get worse. Skilled technicians can update parts of your equipment. Cleaners can lubricate the equipment to stop corrosion.

3. Buy Spare Parts Now

 Unprepared companies get caught by surprise. For example, a piece of equipment suddenly stops working or is too dangerous to operate. 

A simple replacement part can fix this problem. However, not every business has the replacement part ready to go. 

An industrial equipment supplier can provide the missing part. However, it can take weeks for you to receive the product. A demand surge can make it more difficult to obtain your desired part.

Companies should plan for an emergency before it happens. Buying spare parts before your equipment breaks will accelerate the modification.

You don’t have to wait for the equipment to arrive first. Instead, you can find a skilled technician right away. 

Request a Quote for Your Industrial Equipment Needs

Your company needs industrial equipment to operate. Maintaining equipment extends its value and promotes workplace safety.

Even the most protective measures won’t shield you from equipment breakdowns. You will need replacement parts to fix your equipment.

Kor-Pak offers equipment replacements for your needs. Contact us today and let us know what equipment you need.