Threads stay locked thanks to special compounds

June 7, 2001
Once (as a test) I ran Vlad at full speed into a steel dumpster," boasts Gage Cauchious, builder and controller of the Battlebot robot Vlad the Impaler.

Once (as a test) I ran Vlad at full speed into a steel dumpster," boasts Gage Cauchious, builder and controller of the Battlebot robot Vlad the Impaler. "That's 210 lb abruptly halting from 20 mph. Parts bent but stayed put." Cauchious credits threadlockers and retaining compounds from Loctite Americas, Rocky Hill, Conn., with keeping the robot intact.

"Failures from vibration and impact can cost a tournament," Cauchious says. "Loctite compounds are used throughout the robot." For example, Loctite 294 wicking threadlocker and setscrews fix drive sprockets to shafts. And a medium-strength blue formula and the highstrength 609 type secure other critical assemblies. "Nothing inside Vlad has come loose in over four years of competition," adds Cachious.

For the uninitiated, Battlebots is a TV program that showcases combat between contestantbuilt, radio-controlled robots in an enclosed, hazard-filled ring. Heavyweight-class (210 lb) Vlad the Impaler is named for its sharpened-prong, compressedCO2-powered forklift capable of hoisting 208 lb. The apparatus is used to gore and overturn competing robots. Although Vlad can dish it out, it must also endure similar attacks and survive destructive ring-based weapons such as carbide-tipped saws, pneumatic sledge hammers, and spikes.

Sponsored Recommendations

Flexible Power and Energy Systems for the Evolving Factory

Aug. 29, 2024
Exploring industrial drives, power supplies, and energy solutions to reduce peak power usage and installation costs, & to promote overall system efficiency

Timber Recanting with SEW-EURODRIVE!

Aug. 29, 2024
SEW-EURODRIVE's VFDs and gearmotors enhance timber resawing by delivering precise, efficient cuts while reducing equipment stress. Upgrade your sawmill to improve safety, yield...

Advancing Automation with Linear Motors and Electric Cylinders

Aug. 28, 2024
With SEW‑EURODRIVE, you get first-class linear motors for applications that require direct translational movement.

Gear Up for the Toughest Jobs!

Aug. 28, 2024
Check out SEW-EURODRIVEs heavy-duty gear units, built to power through mining, cement, and steel challenges with ease!

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Machine Design, create an account today!