MechChem Africa March-April 2024

⎪ Products and industry news ⎪

LE National Marketing Manager Gavin Ford explains that the rat trap test can show how two greases with the same viscosity react differently to the same force or pressure over time. Each lubricant is applied to a plate on the apparatus and the spring-loaded clapper is then released. “When we release it, it hits both plates with the same speed and force. We then compare how the two lubricants have reacted. We can snap the device several times to simulate what would happen over time or with continuous use,” explains Ford. However, the rat trap tool is only one element for determining if the selected grease is the right one for the intended application. “People often think a grease is a grease is a grease,” says Ford. “However, greases are used for such a wide range of applications, their viscosity and properties vary significantly. You can get greases that are the consistency of peanut butter, toffee or honey. Obviously, each of these lubricants How to compare lubricants

that is able to withstand extremely heavy loads, harsh chemicals and temperatures up to 1 038 °C. It is attracted to metal surfaces, forming a microscopic layer, but does not build up or affect clearances. Almasol minimises metal-to-metal contact and the resulting friction, heat and wear. Monolec is a wear-reducing additive that creates a singular molecular lubricating film and Quinplex is an impact-resistant additive that contributes to outstanding water resistance. When used as a comparative product in the rat trap test, a grease without Quinplex inevitably disperses from the plate where it’s been applied much quicker than one that contains this additive. “The non-Quinplex grease loses its tackiness and heats up far more quickly,” says Ford. “Each of our unique, proprietary additives has been designed to yield specific benefits. This is a tangible way we can show our customers just how much of a difference our additives can make in protecting their equipment.” www.lubricationengineers.co.za

will behave differently,” he adds. To measure grease consistency, the National Grease Lubricating Institute (NLGI) has created a standardised scale. It grades grease consistency from 000 to 6. The penetration test measures how deep a standard cone falls into a grease sample in tenths of millimetres. Each NLGI grade corresponds to a specific worked penetra tion value range. Equipment manufacturers use this scale to recommend the grade of lubricant required for their equipment components, and it’s essential to adhere to this recom mendation to optimise the effectiveness and longevity of equipment. “If an equip ment manufacturer specifies NLGI 001 and you’re using NLGI 2, you’re going to run into problems, because the grease penetration is different,” says Ford. In its greases, LE uses proprietary ad ditives, Almasol, Quinplex and Monolec. Almasol is a solid wear-reducing additive

Funding secures satellite industry transformation CubeSpace, a leading satellite component manufacturer, with its roots in the research laboratories of Stellenbosch University, has secured R47-million venture capital funding to fuel its global expansion. After establishing itself as a leader in the cubesat market, the company is leveraging its considerable experience and research and development capabilities to transform the broader satellite industry. The strategic shift is backed by an impressive 50% annual growth over the past four years, with the recent venture capital funding, led by the University Technology Fund (UTF) and co-investor Savant Venture Fund, to sup port expansive growth.

CubeSpace’s inclusion in NASA’s State-of-the-Art Small Spacecraft Technology report. The company has played a significant role in ground breaking missions, including the development of the control systems for the UAE Lunar rover, and is currently in the process of building control systems for three more lunar rovers, which will contribute to the colonisation of the moon and Mars. Through enabling their customers to build world class satellites, the company actively contributes to initiatives aimed at improving conditions on Earth, including projects related to the removal of space debris, smart agriculture, global internet access, and the monitoring of climate, weather patterns, and maritime activities. “CubeSpace embodies the University Technology Fund’s vision to invest in South African university technology with global potential. This is the fund’s largest investment to date, reflecting our confidence in the company. Their outstanding performance in a promising sector has us excited to support their ambitious goals. We’re thrilled to fuel their journey!” says UTF CEO Wayne Stocks. “The investment in CubeSpace is a great case study demonstrating that local university technology is an overlooked but very promising asset class. This is also supported by the fast growth in the Stellenbosch University group of companies, which currently boasts nearly 30 spinout companies,” explains Anita Nel, Chief Director of Innovation and Commercialisation of Stellenbosch University and CEO of US Enterprises. www.cubespace.co.za

Renowned for successfully controlling over 300 satellites and endorsed by NASA, the company aims to strengthen its foothold in the US and European markets, enhancing support for its robust client base worldwide. “Gone are the times where satellite manufacturing is reserved for governments of large first-world countries. We have developed a modular and low-cost control system capable of controlling any size satellite, which will help researchers, private companies and govern ments globally build satellites a lot quicker, with smaller teams, and at much lower cost,” says CubeSpace CEO Mike-Alec Kearney. The company has already secured its first six contracts for microsat ellites, with the largest contract being for a 400 kg earth observation satellite destined for Very Low Earth Orbit at 200 km. This achievement underscores its strong position in the international satellite industry and demonstrates industry’s trust in the company’s capabilities. “With the new investment, we’re expanding our capabilities to control satellites up to one ton through our revolutionary new range of large reaction wheels. These wheels will all include our high-efficiency precision electrical motor, which was developed in-house and will address an urgent need in the satellite constellation market for high performance, low-cost reaction wheels that can be delivered in high volumes for demanding schedules,” explains Kearney. The control systems play a crucial role in the operation of satellites by ensuring precision pointing and stability, enabling seamless opera tion of optical payloads and antennas. This expertise is highlighted by

The CubeSpace team, with roots in the research laboratories of Stellenbosch University, has secured R47-million venture capital funding to fuel its global expansion.

36 ¦ MechChem Africa • March-April 2024