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PAUL HELLARD

Steady as she goes

The economics of making stuff is better when it is cleaner, safer and faster.

The approach to the annual Australian Manufacturing Week is always an exciting time. Plenty to contemplate, plan, write. Almost too much to do. Right now, we’re putting together the issue you have in your hands, and we are also compiling the Exhibition Directory for the AMW2024 in Sydney.

As many of those qualified economist’s columns extol, the Australian economy has made it through 2023 in fairly good shape, helped by a resilient labour market, buoyant business conditions and strong commodity prices. Risks of a recession this year have receded, but that doesn’t mean things will be easy. The thing to remember here is that economics is international. The local conditions are weathering what occurs overseas. The cumulative (long-term) impacts of interest-rate rises are still biting, with softening consumer spending and more gloomy consumer confidence. Firms are still adapting to higher interest rates, meaning increased volatility in business conditions and lower business sentiment.

Of particular concern is weakening economic activity in China. Ongoing geopolitical risks in Ukraine, the Middle East and Asia are adding to the uncertainty, compounded by the looming US election. Extreme weather events, both at home and abroad, are already in the headlines in 2024 and are a constant reminder that climate resilience and the energy transition remain policy priorities and are likely to have an impact on economic growth for some time. With this much real-life drama, who needs reality television?

Inflation is moving in the right direction but is still too high in Australia. It is likely to remain the focus of economic policy and public debate throughout this and next year. Globally, inflation is receding. This will assist the Australian outlook. While we may not see more interest rate rises in 2024, rate cuts are not yet on the agenda – unless inflation falls quicker than expected. Anything that entrenches inflation for longer will lead to worse outcomes for the economy and the broader community. The Government must ensure its policies and spending decisions work with monetary policy, not against it, to avoid stoking inflation.

ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance), is the practise of keeping a close watch on the effects your manufacturing have on the environment, your workers and the bottom line, while giving the manufacturing industry the confidence it is producing goods (profits) without destroying the planet.

In 2017, Xie Jinping temporarily shut down parts of the Chinese steel manufacturing sector to allow factories to refit and clean up their act. The export market halted for months. The strongarm rules helped standardise reporting in China while reducing greenwashing risks. Fast forward to China 2024, there are new ESG disclosure rules for its biggest companies as the world’s top polluter seeks to align with European requirements and bring foreign investment back to its struggling economy. But foreign investors have been turning their backs on China lately. Direct investment plunged to a three-year low in 2023 as a property market slump, deflation risks and growing geopolitical tensions with the US stifle economic growth. China is looking to bring its regulations in line with Europe, where companies have to make similar disclosures starting this year under the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive.

Australian manufacturers are now having to file their ESG reporting obligations and the benefits won’t just be financial. It’s time to join the queue of nation’s industries having to report how they ‘make their stuff’. I’d suggest this is way better than being forcibly shut down until your act is cleaned up.

Since you’re reading this editorial, I want to let you know I’m open to your feedback and suggestions on this magazine. After all, it’s yours. Email me with your thoughts or if you see me at the Australian Manufacturing Week in Sydney, please come and say hello.

Government intervention into rising Workcover Premiums is required

WorkCover premiums, a form of insurance paid by employers to cover workplace injuries and illnesses, play a crucial role in safeguarding both businesses and workers. However, when these premiums rise as they are doing, they can have significant implications for all stakeholders involved.

Here I have outlined five impacts of increasing WorkCover premiums and its effects on businesses, employees, and the broader economy.

1. Financial Strain on Business

Rising WorkCover premiums can impose a substantial financial burden on businesses, especially small and medium enterprises (SMEs) with limited resources. Increased premiums directly impact a company's bottom line, reducing profitability and hindering growth opportunities. This financial strain may force businesses to allocate funds originally earmarked for expansion, innovation, or employee benefits towards covering insurance costs, thereby impeding their ability to invest in crucial areas essential for long-term success.

2. Deterrent to Employment

Higher WorkCover premiums may act as a deterrent to employment, particularly for businesses operating in laborintensive industries. Employers facing escalating insurance costs may be reluctant to hire additional staff or expand their workforce, fearing the added financial strain of increased premiums. Consequently, job creation could stagnate, exacerbating unemployment rates and impeding economic recovery efforts.

3. Impact on Employee Benefits

As businesses grapple with rising WorkCover premiums, they may be compelled to make cuts in other areas, including employee benefits and compensation packages. Reduced benefits such as healthcare coverage, retirement plans, or bonuses can diminish job satisfaction and morale among workers. This, in turn, may lead to decreased productivity, increased absenteeism, and higher turnover rates, ultimately undermining organisational performance.

4. Workplace Safety Measures

On a positive note, higher WorkCover premiums may incentivise employers to prioritise workplace safety and implement robust risk management strategies. Faced with the prospect of escalating insurance costs due to frequent workplace injuries or accidents, businesses may invest in safety training programs, ergonomic improvements, and enhanced safety protocols to mitigate risks and minimise the likelihood of incidents. Consequently, a safer work environment can lead to fewer workplace injuries, reduced absenteeism, and improved employee well-being.

5. Economic Ripple Effects

The impact of rising WorkCover premiums extends beyond individual businesses and employees, reverberating throughout the broader economy. Industries heavily reliant on labour, such as manufacturing, construction, and healthcare, may experience a slowdown in productivity and output due to heightened insurance expenses. Moreover, reduced consumer spending resulting from job losses or diminished purchasing power can dampen economic growth and stall recovery efforts in the aftermath of premium hikes.

In response to escalating WorkCover premiums and their adverse effects on businesses and workers, Governments must intervene by implementing policy measures aimed at alleviating financial strain and promoting workplace safety.

Many initiatives need to be looked into. These could include offering subsidies or tax incentives to offset insurance costs for SMEs, enhancing regulatory enforcement to ensure compliance with safety standards, applying a freeze on increases for a period of time or providing grants for investments in injury prevention initiatives. Such interventions are crucial for fostering a conducive environment for business growth while safeguarding the well-being of workers. The impact of rising WorkCover premiums is far-reaching, affecting businesses, employees, and the broader economy in various ways. While increased insurance costs can strain businesses financially and deter employment growth, they also serve as a catalyst for prioritising workplace safety and risk management. Effective Government intervention and policy measures are essential for balancing the needs of businesses and workers, ensuring a sustainable and secure working environment for all stakeholders involved. By addressing the root causes of premium hikes and promoting a culture of safety and responsibility, we can mitigate the adverse effects of rising WorkCover premiums and foster a healthier, more resilient workforce.

It will be interesting to see what steps Governments take to address this significant issue over the coming years. amtil.com.au

Productive lives

Australian medical research has made it possible for millions of people to live healthier more productive lives. and researchers on projects that can transform industries and create jobs.

It’s also critically important to the nation’s future wellbeing – which is why the Australian Government is backing projects to overcome pressing health care challenges. Take Group B Streptococcus (GBS), for example, a common bacterium carried by one in five pregnant women.

Undetected, it can lead to serious complications in unborn or newborn babies and adversely impact maternal health. World-wide, GBS infections cause an estimated 150,000 stillbirths and infant deaths each year. So, a GBS test for expectant mothers that is easy to administer, provides quick results, and could become as widely available as a COVID-19 rapid antigen test, is a major achievement. Australia’s health and medical research sector is aiming for just that – developing a test trademarked as StrepSure, a sensor technology that’s anticipated to identify GBS bacteria within minutes.

Researchers from Melbourne, not to be outdone, are developing the world’s first electronic system to deliver epilepsy drugs through the skin. This smart wearable drug delivery system will, once approved, support 151,000 Australians who have epilepsy to administer the correct dosage of drugs at the optimal time. That should reduce the incidence of uncontrolled seizures and hospitalisations –dramatically improving the quality of life for epilepsy sufferers.

The Australian Government is backing the commercialisation and onshore production of these two breakthroughs – and others like them – for several reasons. It will cement our growing reputation as a medical science powerhouse and alleviate cost pressures on our healthcare system.

It will also help Australia pivot towards flexible, technologically advanced manufacturing solutions – reducing our reliance on imports and creating new jobs and economic opportunities. Successfully commercialising medical science breakthroughs invariably takes time, however. There’s the requirement for regulatory approval in Australia and overseas – a process generally involving partnership across laboratories, businesses, and health care providers.

This is where the Australian Government is stepping up.

In February, I announced $51m in Cooperative Research Centres Projects (CRC-P) grants to support collaboration between industry

A grant of nearly $3m has been awarded to a consortium comprising RMIT University – whose researchers developed the nano sensor technologies at the heart of the StrepSure test – Nexsen Biotech, Atomo Diagnostics and Northern Health. This will help drive the validation of StrepSure ahead of it being taken to regulators and then to market.

The consortium working on the Smart Wearable Drug Delivery System – including Remagine Labs, AK Clinical Research, the University of Melbourne, and Monash University – was awarded a $3m CRC-P grant. This will not only support further development but allow the consortium to explore partnerships with pharma companies. The CRC and CRC-P program is a proven model for delivering real outcomes across industries – from manufacturing to agriculture, waste recycling, artificial intelligence, aerospace, energy, mining, and of course health. Since 1991, the Australian Government has awarded $5.8bn in CRC Program funding. This funding has helped leverage $17.4bn in cash and in-kind contributions from industry, research, and other organisations. To further underline the value of CRC Program, more than 35,400 commercialisation agreements have been signed from the work that was generated – and 140 spinoff companies created. There will be further CRC-P funding rounds and grants in coming months – and I urge companies looking to commercialise Australian innovation to check their eligibility to apply.

I’d also urge people in small and medium enterprises grappling with the challenge of adopting artificial intelligence to consider new AI scholarships being provided by the National AI Centre.

Coordinated by the CSIRO and the Institute of Applied Technology Digital, the course will provide a non-technical introduction to AI fundamentals for people at the beginning their AI literacy journey. This makes it ideal for individuals starting their career in AI, workers seeking to upskill – as well as owners of SMEs. industry.gov

RMIT's Sir Ian Potter NanoBioSensing team with industry partner NEXSEN Biotech: (left to right) Dr Satya Sarker (RMIT), Dr Gayatri Bagree (RMIT), Mr Mark Muzzin (Chairman, NEXSEN), Professor Vipul Bansal (RMIT), Mr Thomas Hanly (CEO, NEXSEN) and PhD scholar Erangi Amarasinghe.

Credit: Will Wright, RMIT University

Skills for a cleaner future

Movement towards a ‘leaner’ economy is creating a significant economic transition around the world, and Australia is running with this tide.

Our policymakers and business leaders are accepting, and rising to, this challenge.

We need Australian companies to be well placed, not just to survive this transition, but to become better, leaner and ‘greener’ as a result.

Right now, Australian businesses, large and small, across all industry sectors, are thinking about what this transition means for them –their business model, market, strategy and workforce. They are doing so in response to a range of factors – policy and regulation, consumer demand, input cost pressures and the demands of their supply and trading partners.

New Ai Group research has found most businesses feel positive about the transition to a clean economy, but many are only in the early stages of thinking about the skills and capabilities they might need to seize the opportunities. This research explores how everyday Australian businesses are experiencing the transition to a clean economy. For the purposes of the report, 'clean economy' was defined as comprising three pillars: climate change mitigation and adaptation; renewable energy; and the ‘circular economy’.

The report from our Centre for Education and Training, Skills for a Cleaner Future, is based on interviews with businesses from a broad range of industries including manufacturing, construction, engineering, health, food, electrical and packaging.

We wanted to understand more about the drivers of change, and their relationship to emerging skills and workforce needs.

For the businesses already on this journey, we sought to understand how skills and workforce needs were changing. We also wanted to uncover examples of best practice to help others and inform policy directions and support. For those less advanced, we wanted to learn more about any potential barriers to change, and if a lack of skills and capabilities was playing a part.

Overall, we wanted to provide a 'real time' snapshot of Australian businesses navigating this transition, including the factors driving their decisions and business strategies, and what that might mean for jobs, skills and workforce capabilities going forward.

Among the businesses we spoke to, there was a very broad spectrum of knowledge, engagement and action. 81% of the businesses in the study saw the clean economy transition as an opportunity, with 76% seeing it as an opportunity to reach new

customers. More than three quarters of the businesses surveyed had implemented changes as a result of the transition to a clean economy, and changing customer demands was a key factor –77% cited this as a driver of change. But when businesses were asked whether they had the skills and capabilities to successfully navigate the transition, the results were mixed – 55% said yes, 45% said no.

42% expected emerging or increased skills needs over the coming year. Among those who considered that their skills needs would increase, 48% predicted this would be skills in relation to the circular economy; 45% said skills in relation to clean energy.

Half the businesses said they expected that the skills or tasks in their existing jobs would change, and half expected completely new jobs to emerge. The findings show there is a lot of opportunity, but many Australian businesses are unsure if they have the skills and capabilities they need. While they are optimistic about rising to this challenge, in many cases they haven’t thought through the skills and workforce needed to take them there.

While there will be entirely new sectors and jobs emerging, businesses right across the economy will need to adapt, and this means having a level of 'green literacy' in the workforce. From the Boardroom to operational staff, policymakers and business leaders will need to be on the same page to ensure this happens, otherwise Australia risks being left behind.

I am very optimistic about the opportunity the clean economy transition represents for Australian businesses. However, as is so often the case, it is people, and their knowledge, skills, capabilities, partnerships and insights that will be the key to our success.

Policymakers must create the right conditions for that success, and businesses must have the right strategy for the conditions.

Australian businesses need to forge into these uncharted waters with skill and confidence. This will require strong leadership and strategy, but also the flexibility to change tack when required, and the agility to respond swiftly to new developments, opportunities and constraints.

There’s no time to waste.

The Skills for a Cleaner Future report is available here: https://www.aigroup.com.au/news/reports-policy-papers/ aigroup.com.au

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Buy local: How governments can support good local jobs

Nobody particularly enjoys paying taxes, but we all depend on the things taxes pay for – from schools and hospitals to infrastructure and industry development.

When governments spend money, taxpayers must get value for it. This goes well beyond just a competitive price. Value means securing a public benefit for the people who live and work in the state or country where funds are being spent.

One key way we do this is through local content requirements in procurement policies. These specify that companies must use local inputs, suppliers and expertise to participate in publicly funded projects. They can mandate local manufacturing to create good, secure jobs, build capability, deliver skills and support communities.

Such mechanisms are commonplace across Australia and the world and are an indispensable tool for successful industries. They apply to everything from steel and concrete to television programs. They were instrumental in returning rail manufacturing to Western Australia and creating 800 manufacturing jobs in Maryborough when the Queensland Government announced Downer as its preferred supplier for their $7bn train program.

Projects without local content requirements can run into problems. NSW is still dealing with the costly fallout from multiple public transport builds that were sent offshore only to end up with trains too large for the tunnels the rails run through and defective ferries that were repeatedly delayed and eventually delivered full of asbestos.

Seeing local content rules recently demonised in an unprecedented submission by the NSW ICAC was bizarre.

Unsurprisingly, the comments drew a sharp response from the AMWU, ETU and Unions NSW, as well as industry groups. We may disagree on some things, but we all understand how vital an effective procurement policy is to the well-being of our industries and the people whose families and communities it supports. Governments across the world are currently moving to secure local industries and supply chains in the global race to net zero and the jobs of the

future. Many are making significant investments to catch the wind of green industrial opportunities. They are riding the wave of public support to pick winners with public money, and not simply leave it to the market. The US has set the pace of this approach with its Inflation Reduction Act, with more than US$800bn in programs and funding, whilst green industry packages have followed from the UK, Korea, Japan, China, Taiwan and the EU. Australia’s own $15bn National Reconstruction Fund may be a step forward, but it will not be enough to compete on the world stage.

The fact is, Australia missed the starter’s gun and is, arguably, standing still. We missed major opportunities when the federal government failed to specify local content requirements in its announcements of a new offshore wind zone in Bunbury, Western Australia, and the Southern Ocean Wind Zone, south of the Victorian coast. Local content provisions must be implemented if local manufacturers, workers and communities are to see the full economic and employment benefits from projects like these. Without them, promised benefits will not be realised.

Ensuring locally produced steel or manufactured goods are included in the projects not only means local workers will see the benefits of moving to a low-carbon economy, but we will build community support for more renewable energy development, like offshore wind, a lot sooner.

Right now, we have the opportunity to build a future where we can re-establish our industrial capability with clean energy, spend public money for public benefit, and support better living standards through domestic manufacturing policy and collaboration.

We can’t purchase that kind of future from an offshore supplier –we can only build it here. amwu.org.au

Leg up for LIBERTY

$200m to help future-proof regional steel manufacturing.

The future of Australian steelmaking is being backed up to deliver the energy transformation and help keep our producers competitive on a global scale.

The first round of the Powering the Regions Fund (PRF) will provide $200m in grant funding to BlueScope Steel Limited and Liberty Steel Australia to progress projects at their respective operations in New South Wales and South Australia.

BlueScope has been awarded $136.8m towards the reline and upgrade of its No. 6 Blast Furnace at the Port Kembla Steelworks. This project will maintain domestic production, reduce emissions, and support pathways to producing even lower-emissions steel in the future.

LIBERTY has also been awarded $63.2m towards the purchase and commission of a low carbon electric arc furnace (EAF) to replace the existing traditional blast furnace at the Whyalla Steelworks. The new state of the art EAF will support the manufacturing of green steel and help achieve LIBERTY’s aim of carbon neutrality by 2030.

Total steel demand for the energy transformation from 2022 to 2050 will be almost five billion tonnes, accounting for 75% of the total material requirement – and that steel will increasingly be green steel.

“This $200 million investment in the steel sector is about securing the long-term future of the steel industry in Australia,” said Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen. “As we undergo the transformation to Net Zero it is vital that we support our industries to adopt and

manufacture cleaner technologies. Steel is essential for our energy transformation. 90% of the materials that go into making a wind turbine are steel and cement, and we're going to need a lot more of it.”

“Clean, green Australian steel is the way of the future,” added Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic. “Our economy needs it and it will sustain and create great jobs in our regions.”

The BlueScope project will employ approximately 250 additional workers on site during the upgrade and reline of the blast furnace and will help secure the local workforce over the long term, including the thousands of jobs at the Port Kembla Steelworks. LIBERTY’s shift to green iron and steel will increase its workforce by around 24% over five years and help

Watch your ESGs

provide retraining and opportunities to learn new skills for a substantial number of existing employees.

These grants are the first to be delivered under the PRF through its Critical Inputs to Clean Energy Industries program, which supports hard-to-abate sectors like steel so Australia can keep making the things that are vital to the energy transition, including electricity and rail infrastructure, like wind towers, solar farms and energy transmission, and the construction of energy efficient buildings.

The Albanese Government has also committed $200m in grant funding for the hard-to-abate cement and lime and alumina and aluminium sectors, with successful projects to be announced in the coming months. industry.gov.au

The manufacturing sector has new requirements in Environment, Sustainability and Governance. standards issued by the ISSB. These requirements would cover areas such as governance, strategy, risk management and metrics and target including greenhouse gas emissions. Treasury initiated its second consultation seeking views on proposed positions for the detailed implementation and sequencing of standardised, internationally-aligned requirements for disclosure of climate-related financial risks and opportunities in Australia.

In 2023, the Australian government released two consultation papers on the development of a climate risk disclosure framework for companies and financial institutions, with plans to introduce mandatory sustainability and ESG reporting requirements for large Australian entities in the next few years. The papers describe implementing these new rules using a 'phased' approach, beginning as soon as 2024. Climate risk and corporate sustainability reporting has been a major business topic around the world. Certain markets like the EU, UK, and New Zealand have already enacted sustainability and climate disclosure laws, while the US SEC is expected to announce its own ruling in 2024. Australia's Treasury Department notes that climate-related risks 'are material to global financial risk',

and companies and banks need to start assessing and communicating those risks to investors and other stakeholders: Climate change poses significant risks to Australian entities, encompassing both physical risks associated with the impact of climate change and transition risks arising from policy, regulatory, and technological changes aimed at mitigating climate change. Disclosure of these risks and opportunities arising from transitioning to low carbon economy is crucial for effective risk management at individual entity and systemic levels. Recognising the importance of transparency and accountability of this matter, the Australian government committed to implementing standardised, internationally-aligned reporting requirements based on the final

Phased timeline for climate disclosures

The mandatory climate-related financial disclosures would be implemented in a phased approach, commencing in 20242025 and reaching its ‘end state’ for 20272028 and later financial years. treasury.gov.au

South Australia ahead

Doors open on training the future workforce at Findon Technical College.

The first of the Malinauskas Labor Government’s technical colleges – Findon Technical College – has officially opened its doors to students and staff.

Formally opened by Premier Peter Malinauskas in front of assembled special guests, staff, students and their families, the Technical College is the first of five which will provide skills training to hundreds of young South Australians in collaboration with key industry partners.

Findon Technical College will provide students from years 10 to 12 the opportunity to learn in state-of-the-art facilities as they complete their SACE and start a career in some of South Australia’s fastest growing industries including advanced manufacturing and engineering, early childhood and education and health and social support.

“Today we see the delivery of a promise that will ensure that our young people have the opportunity to learn in cutting-edge facilities, get the practical education and support they need and graduate workforce ready into jobs,” said the SA Premier Peter Malinauskas. “Not every student wants to

BRII grants

go to university. The students starting today at Findon Technical College will graduate straight into fulfilling, well paid jobs with quality employers in parts of our economy that we know are growing strongly.”

Employer partners, including representatives from BAE Systems and multinational equipment manufacturer, Liebherr, were also at today’s event. These partners have helped design the content of the industry training programs and will support the delivery of the programs along with providing opportunities for students to work with them and develop the skills needed for the jobs in each industry.

Findon has been designed to ensure handson, project-based learning that is valued by industry, with the latest technology built in, including a robot called Pepper, an industrial collaborate robot (COBOT), a welding workshop, specialised acoustic padded pods for audio opportunities, and a large LED videowall for immersive experiences.

Findon Technical College will be overseen by Findon High School Principal Kathleen Hoare, and led on site by Luke Northcote,

Grant proposals hint at assistance for high emission manufacturing facilities.

The Federal Government has introduced a new round of business grants to startups and SMEs aimed at assisting the renewables and low-emission practices in projects.

Minister for Industry, Science and Resources Ed Husic, said recently that companies were invited to submit proposals for ideas that address key challenges in increasing energy efficiency of commerical fishing operations; producing safe drinking water for remote First Nations communities; and researching alernative packaging for the Australian wine market.

“We want to challenge small and medium businesses to make a strong contribution to Australia’s circular economy,” said Minister Husic. “These grants are an opportunity to bring Australian know-how to solve some of our most pressing economic and social issues, including renewables and low emission practices.”

Funding is also available at a State level to help high-emitting manufacturing and mining facilities in NSW develop and deploy decarbonisation projects, from feasibility studies through to commissioning. Grants of up to $305,000 for high-emitting industries are available. Funding for instance will help

with 19 specialist staff and key registered training organsiations including TAFE SA and the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation.

More than 230 students have enroled in the technical college for 2024, developing their skills for the jobs in these key industry sectors in South Australia. Students have the opportunity to attend full-time and complete all of their program in the technical college or on a part-time basis and remain at their home school for their general SACE subjects.

The student’s timetables vary depending on their area of study and year level but each has a deliberate focus on creating pathways into future employment, such as Year 11 students having dedicated time for work placement and individual coaching sessions.

Employee partners include BAE Systems Australia, Liebherr, Axiom Precision Manufacturing, Helping Hand Aged Care, Southern Cross Care, Goodstart Early Learning and Precious Cargo. sa.gov.au

NSW achieve significant and sustained industrial emissions reductions by 2030, in line with NSW’s target of net zero by 2050, through the following three objectives:

• Supporting decarbonisation in high emitting facilities – help NSW manufacturing and mining operations deliver value for money emissions reduction projects.

• Accelerating transformative decarbonisation projects – prioritise innovative and ambitious low emissions projects to fast track NSW’s progress to net zero.

• Helping industry thrive in a low carbon economy – build local skills, knowledge and jobs to ensure NSW industry prospers in a new low carbon economy.

Application timeframe

HEI funding has been open for applications from October 2022 and a rolling assessment process will be implemented over a period of two years. This means that applications can be submitted at any time and they will be assessed immediately following receipt. nsw.gov.au

Jenkin Bros at 50 years

Jenkin Bros Engineers: Celebrating 50 Years.

In the dynamic world of metal fabrication and engineering, Jenkin Bros Engineers, from the outer east of Melbourne, have remained as one of the few companies to display the resilience, innovation and unwavering commitment to quality, being rewarded with 50 years of operation.

Founded in 1974 as a family business, Jenkin Bros Engineers was producing parts for a local milk factory when an opportunity arose to produce parts for Kenworth Trucks who had begun to assemble vehicles in Australia. It was a very entrepreneurial approach to business that also saw International Harvester approached for opportunities to produce and assemble parts.

Quality, consistency and smart investment in people and machinery remained the hallmarks of growth throughout the 1990's, and saw Jenkin Bros Engineers well positioned for increased demand in the early 2000's from stalwart clients Kenworth and International.

Around the same time in 2004, a restructure in the form of a purchase from senior staff further lay the foundations for a strong administrative base to complement the production side of the business. Through significant change during the GFC, adaptability was key to scale to the needs of an evolving market. Most notably, a shift away from the local production of high volume parts to essential bulky, low volume parts, and the acquisition of a smaller specialist business, allowed Jenkin Bros Engineers enter into fabrication. Key relationships saw growth opportunities maximised through the early 2010's, with a strong emphasis on quality and delivering QA certified parts at dependable scale. Later in the same decade

saw the introduction of laser cutting into the suite of tools. Scaling through COVID times, while still investing in capital equipment and people allowed Jenkin Bros Engineers to position themselves ready to pounce on the right opportunities that came in the form of significant assembly contracts for Kenworth, and complementary 3PL offerings.

"From humble beginnings, we've always been driven by a desire to deliver the best possible solutions for our clients," reflects the current CEO of Jenkin Bros Engineers, Simon Bowen. “Our success over the past 50 years is a testament to our team's skill, dedication, and passion for what we do.”

As Jenkin Bros Engineers looks to the future, the company plans to continue its tradition of innovation and excellence, leveraging its rich history while embracing new opportunities. The focus remains on providing a single-source solution for customers, broadening its range of engineering services, and evolving assembly and 3PL services for the new era. jenkin.com.au

Jenkin Bros crew and vehicles 1996

Some of Jenkin Bros team: Daniel Vellu, Sayed Sadiqi, Tayhla Macaulay and Sokhomal Hoeung.

Fire suppression

Automatic fire suppression for CNC machines.

Over the years since the introduction of CNC machines in manufacturing, research data has determined that many fires in machine shops are preventable. Analysis of the data has determined that a simple mistake by an operator is responsible for almost 30% of all fires.

Most commonly, fires are due to mismanagement of dust and/or metal waste from the machining process. It is important to ensure routine cleaning and preventative maintenance are carried out to minimise the risk.

Other causes of fires in machine shops involve tool breaks and coolant errors that contribute to more than 60% of all fires assessed. These errors cause sparks that can ignite the part being machined or – more frequently – ignite the coolant, which typically has a lower flashpoint.

While a handheld fire extinguisher might appear to be an adequate solution, that’s only as long as the operator is close and trained in its use.

In the case of CNC machine fires, they tend to ignite and intensify quickly. A handheld fire extinguisher is only effective as long as the operator is close. It is not useful if a machine operates unmanned 24/7, or if the operator is not immediately on hand.

Even if the workshop is protected by an automatic fire sprinkler system, the installation of a supplementary REACTON™ Automatic Fire Suppression System on a CNC machine can afford a rapid intervention suppressing the fire to minimise damage, and the spread of the fire to other parts of the building. Using a clean agent with no residue minimises the clean up and does not contaminate the machine coolant. If there are any combustion contaminates from the fire, it only requires minimal clean up. Afterwards, the machine should have a thorough inspection.

They can be quickly up and running by replacing the clean agent cylinder and routing new fire detection tubing through the machine. fireprotection.com.au

iLAuNCH Trailblazer project

Rocketing to new heights with additive manufacturing of large-scale composite structures.

Launch vehicles will require scalable production of low weight and high strength structures and components that can withstand the extreme loads, vibrations and shocks of launch without failure. Leveraging development underway in carbon composite technology to reduce satellite mass, the latest iLAuNCH Trailblazer project will apply the design flexibility and speed of additive manufacturing technology to develop largescale carbon composite structures for rockets.

“This is another world class approach to lay up space-grade carbon-fibre and then digitally model that for scale and repeatable design,” said iLAuNCH Trailblazer Executive Director, Darin Lovett.

“As we make progress in developing sovereign capability for space applications, we know these products will also benefit defence, aerospace, and other sectors that require high-value, bespoke composite structures.”

This project will again utilise the design and advanced manufacture expertise of New Frontier Technologies (NFT) to create structures suitable for rocketry applications, along with the Australian National University’s (ANU) Australian Advanced Instrumentation Centre (AITC), and the X-ray Computed Tomography laboratory (CTLab) for testing. Using an ANU high resolution CT scanner to assess and mature the manufacturing process the collaboration will build a functional digital twin of the rocket bodies to assess, qualify and enhance the fidelity of structural models for simulation.

3D models will provide a detailed digital profile, with capability for performance simulation of every manufactured component, which is the foundation for digital certification.

The project lead, New Frontier Technologies has developed innovative design-for-manufacture (DfM) strategies for scalable, additive manufacturing of space-grade carbon-fibre structures using laser-assisted automated tape placement (ATP).

“Our world class facilities, expertise in precision manufacturing and rigorous test and validation capabilities will help NFT mature and commercialise technology that will advance Australian manufacturing capability,” said the Australian National University’s Research School of Physics, Professor Patrick Kluth.

The application of x-ray computed tomography (CT) and 3D multiscale modelling at ANU will provide high-fidelity simulation. The CT will capture the detailed microstructure features, such as fibre alignment and voids, that can be reflected in the simulation models.

“This is the only ATP manufacturing capability of its kind in Australia and has been proven in European (ESA) projects for manufacture of high-performance composite structures for space applications,” said New Frontier Technologies Director and CEO, Paul Compston.

By joining forces, iLAuNCH, ANU and NFT will develop a qualified manufacturing process that will directly contribute to the development of rocket manufacturing in Australia through the optimisation of automated additive manufacturing technologies. ilaunch.space anu.edu.au newfrontiertech.com

Titanium metamaterial

Groundbreaking titanium structure shows supernatural strength.

A 3D printed ‘metamaterial’ boasting levels of strength for weight unseen in nature or the manufacturing world could change how we make everything from medical implants to aircraft or rocket parts. RMIT University researchers created the new metamaterial – a term used to describe an artificial material with unique properties not observed in nature – from common titanium alloy.

But it’s the material’s unique lattice structure design, recently revealed in the journal Advanced Materials, that makes it anything but common: tests show it’s 50% stronger than the next strongest alloy of similar density used in aerospace applications.

Improving on nature’s own design

Lattice structures made of hollow struts were originally inspired by nature: strong hollow-stemmed plants like the Victoria water lily or the hardy organ pipe coral (Tubipora musica) showed us the way in combining lightness and strength.

However, as RMIT’s Distinguished Professor Ma Qian explains, decades of trying to replicate these hollow ‘cellular structures’ in metals has been frustrated by the common issues of manufacturability and load stress concentrating on the inside areas of the hollow struts, leading to premature failures. “Ideally, the stress in all complex cellular materials should be evenly spread,” Qian explained.

“However, for most topologies, it is common for less than half of the material to mainly bear the compressive load, while the larger volume of material is structurally insignificant.” Metal 3D printing provides unprecedented innovative solutions to these issues. By pushing 3D printing design to its limits, the RMIT team optimised a new type of lattice structure to distribute the stress more evenly, enhancing its strength or structural efficiency.

“We designed a hollow tubular lattice structure that has a thin band running inside it. These two elements together show strength and lightness never before seen together in nature,” said Qian. “By effectively merging two complementary lattice structures to evenly distribute stress, we avoid the weak points where stress normally concentrates.”

Laser-powered strength

The team 3D printed this design at RMIT’s Advanced Manufacturing Precinct using a process called laser powder bed fusion, where layers of metal powder are melted into place using a high-powered laser beam. Testing showed the printed design – a titanium lattice cube – was 50% stronger than cast magnesium alloy WE54, the strongest alloy of similar density used in aerospace applications. The new structure had effectively halved the amount of stress concentrated on the lattice’s infamous weak points. The double lattice design also means any cracks are deflected along the structure, further enhancing the toughness.

Study lead author and RMIT PhD candidate Jordan Noronha said they could make this structure at the scale of several millimetres or several metres in size using different types of printers. This printability, along with the strength, biocompatibility, corrosion and heat resistance make it a promising candidate for many applications from medical devices such as bone implants to aircraft or rocket parts.

“Compared with the strongest available cast magnesium alloy currently used in commercial applications requiring high strength and light weight, our titanium metamaterial with a comparable density was shown to be much stronger or less susceptible to permanent shape change under compressive loading, not to mention more feasible to manufacture,” Noronha said.

The team plans to further refine the material for maximum efficiency and explore applications in higher-temperature environments.

While currently resistant to temperatures as high as 350 °C, they believe it could be made to withstand temperatures up to 600 °C using more heat-resistant titanium alloys, for applications in aerospace or firefighting drones. As the technology to make this new material is not yet widely available, its adoption by industry might take some time.

The team plans to further refine the material for maximum efficiency and explore applications in higher-temperature environments.

While currently resistant to temperatures as high as 350 °C, they believe it could be made to withstand temperatures up to 600 °C using more heat-resistant titanium alloys, for applications in aerospace or firefighting drones. As the technology to make this new material is not yet widely available, its adoption by industry might take some time.

“Traditional manufacturing processes are not practical for the fabrication of these intricate metal metamaterials, and not everyone has a laser powder bed fusion machine in their warehouse,” he said. “However, as the technology develops, it will become more accessible and the printing process will become much faster, enabling a larger audience to implement our high-strength multitopology metamaterials in their components. Importantly, metal 3D printing allows easy net shape fabrication for real applications.”

Technical Director of RMIT's Advanced Manufacturing Precinct, Distinguished Professor Milan Brandt, said the team welcomed companies wanting to collaborate on the many potential applications. “Our approach is to identify challenges and create opportunities through collaborative design, knowledge exchange, work-based learning, critical problem-solving and translation of research,” he said.

The team plans to further refine the material for maximum efficiency and explore applications in higher-temperature environments. While currently resistant to temperatures as high as 350 °C, they believe it could be made to withstand temperatures up to 600 °C using more heat-resistant titanium alloys, for applications in aerospace or firefighting drones. As the technology to make this new material is not yet widely available, its adoption by industry might take some time.

“Traditional manufacturing processes are not practical for the fabrication of these intricate metal metamaterials, and not everyone has a laser powder bed fusion machine in their warehouse,” he said. “However, as the technology develops, it will become more accessible and the printing process will become much faster, enabling a larger audience to implement our high-strength multitopology metamaterials in their components. Importantly, metal 3D printing allows easy net shape fabrication for real applications.”

Technical Director of RMIT's Advanced Manufacturing Precinct, Distinguished Profapproach is to identify challenges and create opportunities through collaborative design, knowledge exchange, work-based learning, critical problem-solving and translation of research,” he said.

‘Titanium Multi-Topology Metamaterials with Exceptional Strength’ was published in Advanced Materials (DOI: 10.1002/ adma.202308715).

The authors acknowledge the scientific and technical support of the RMIT Advanced Manufacturing Precinct and the RMIT Microscopy and Microanalysis Facility, especially the technical staff Simon Brudler and Paul Spithill. The project was funded by the Australian Research Council.

Upper Calliope Solar Farm

Rio Tinto on it’s way to halving its global Scope 1 & 2 carbon emissions this decade.

Rio Tinto will drive development of Australia’s largest solar power project near Gladstone, after agreeing to buy all electricity from the 1.1GW1 Upper Calliope Solar Farm to provide renewable power to Rio Tinto’s Gladstone operations.

The agreement will bring more renewable power into one of Australia’s most important industrial hubs and marks another step towards Rio Tinto’s climate goal of halving its global Scope 1 & 2 carbon emissions this decade. If combined with more renewable power and suitable firming, transmission and industrial policy, it could also provide the core of a solution to repower Rio Tinto’s three Gladstone production assets - the Boyne aluminium smelter, the Yarwun alumina refinery and the Queensland Alumina refinery.

Under a new power purchase agreement (PPA) signed with European Energy Australia, Rio Tinto will buy all power generated from the Upper Calliope solar farm for 25 years. The plant will be built and operated by European Energy, at a site about 50 kilometres south-west of Gladstone, pending development and grid connection approvals.

Once approved and developed, Upper Calliope would have the potential to lower Rio Tinto's operating carbon emissions by 1.8 million tonnes per year.

“This agreement is a first important step in our work to repower our Gladstone operations and illustrates our commitment to keeping sustainably powered industry in Central Queensland,” Rio Tinto Chief Executive Jakob Stausholm said. “The task remains challenging, but we have a pathway to provide the competitive,

firmed power our Gladstone plants need and we are continuing to work hard with all stakeholders, including the Queensland and Australian governments, on getting there.”

Once approved, construction of the Upper Calliope plant is targeted to start in 2025 or 2026 and, when complete, it will provide enough electricity to meet about 10% of Queensland’s current demand. The plant, which is expected to take two years to construct, will cover 2400 hectares, employ 1000 people during construction and support 100 direct and indirect jobs when operating.

“European Energy is proud to be a strategic partner in this project with Rio Tinto,” European Energy CEO Erik Andersen said. “Our commitment to providing renewable and reliable energy aligns perfectly with Rio Tinto's ambitious climate goals. The Upper Calliope Solar Farm is not just a solar power project; it's a testament to our shared vision for a greener future.”

Upper Calliope is the first successful applicant in a formal Request for Proposals made by Rio Tinto for renewable power and firming projects in Central and Southern Queensland.

Rio Tinto continues to assess other proposals, solutions and partnerships to help competitively meet the energy needs of its three production assets in the Gladstone region. These assets require more than 1GW of reliable power to operate, which equates to over 4GW of quality wind or solar power with firming. Potential further electrification of plant processes could increase their electricity demand in the future.

riotinto.com

au.europeanenergy.com

Getting future ready

Building a brighter future: emerging trends for manufacturers in 2024.

The manufacturing industry is expected to be heavily focused on embracing advanced technologies in 2024, creating a highly connected, data driven environment. The integration of information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT) plays a crucial role in this transformation, and the results will vary among those who integrate IT into their OT systems and those who refrain from doing so, impacting both employee and customer experiences.

Mei Dent, chief product and technology officer, TeamViewer, said, “The convergence of IT and OT is essential to optimise operational efficiency and embrace digital transformation. Manufacturers that fail to integrate these technologies may face significant challenges, including operational inefficiencies due to disjointed governance, slower adoption of new technologies, and isolated data pools. Additionally, the lack of IT/OT integration increases cybersecurity risks, leaving manufacturers vulnerable to targeted attacks that exploit system weaknesses.”

Looking ahead, the following trends are anticipated to shape the future of manufacturing:

1. Digital transformation and cloud computing

Manufacturers are increasingly embracing digital transformation and cloud computing to improve operational agility. Cloudbased infrastructure facilitates rapid scalability, flexibility, and cost optimisation, critical for maintaining competitiveness in a dynamic market. This shift is particularly relevant for manufacturers looking to optimise productivity while controlling technology expenditure, such as using cloud analytics for energy efficiency in production processes.

2. Artificial intelligence (AI), vision AI, and generative AI

AI is revolutionising manufacturing processes with capabilities like real-time data analysis, intelligent automation, and predictive maintenance. Vision AI, a subset of AI, is increasingly used for tasks such as defect detection and quality control. Another emerging AI field is generative AI, which is fostering innovation in product design and production optimisation, delivering quick access to information and product personalisation.

3. Automation and robotics

Industrial automation, including the use of collaborative robots (cobots), is significantly increasing manufacturing efficiency. Cobots are designed to collaborate intelligently and safely with human workers. They represent a key component of industry 4.0, enhancing human abilities while maintaining safety. Unlike traditional industrial robots that operate independently and often require physical barriers for safety, cobots can share a workspace with humans without compromising performance or safety. They monitor the environment and co-exist with humans, making operations more fluid while reducing operational delays.

4. Embracing sustainability

Sustainability has become a key driver of success in manufacturing. Efforts are being made to develop waste reduction capabilities and invest in technologies for product recycling. By adopting a circular economy model, manufacturers are focusing on creating products that are designed for longevity, repair, and recyclability. This approach minimises waste, conserves resources, and, most importantly, aligns with the growing consumer demand for environmentally responsible products.

5. Preparing for a smart factory future

A defining trend for 2024 will be the emergence and expansion of smart factories. These are highly connected and data-driven environments, leveraging the power of the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), AI, and machine learning (ML). This technological integration is transforming traditional manufacturing processes, empowering manufacturers to optimise production, predict and prevent equipment failures, and tailor products to individual customer preferences.

The use of augmented reality (AR) is anticipated to expand further, playing a pivotal role in staff training and addressing physical problems. With the aid of smart glasses and advanced AR software, individuals present at the factory floor can receive expert guidance from professionals located remotely, facilitating step-bystep walkthroughs of various processes. This integration is poised to improve overall operational efficiency, minimising downtime and empowering employees to refine and optimize their workflows.

Mei Dent said, “Throughout 2024, an increasing number of manufacturers are expected to channel resources into developing shop floor processes, leveraging operational data to transition their factories into smart factories. AR and mixed reality technologies will become increasingly important, particularly in complex fields such as aerospace and logistics.

“These technologies have the capability to enhance the physical world by superimposing digital information onto real-world objects and environments, which can significantly boost efficiency and training effectiveness within manufacturing settings. As these trends continue to evolve, manufacturers that embrace innovation and adapt to these changes will be well-positioned to thrive in the competitive global marketplace.”

teamviewer.com/en-au/

Red Hat

Revolutionising the future of manufacturing with AI and Edge. Francis Chow, vice president and general manager, Edge Computing and Red Hat In-Vehicle Operating System.

Edge computing and AI are driving an inevitable transformation in the industrial sector. Industrial needs are evolving rapidly and therefore necessitating advanced solutions that provide a consistent platform to simplify the complexity of deployment. With edge-enabled platforms, the industrial sector is bringing data processing to the data source, simplifying the complexity of industrial systems. This is just one way manufacturers are breaking down the barriers between their information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT) infrastructure.

The gradual blending of IT and OT in industrial systems goes hand in hand with the need for more efficient manufacturing. Over time, bringing together IT and OT delivers lower operating costs and accelerated time-to-market with quality, reliable and secure solutions for manufacturers. However, as manufacturers race to realise the potential of these innovations, data management is now more critical than ever in providing business insights and supporting real-time control over processes and operations.

Unlocking the full potential of advancements such as AI and edge computing requires the transformation of the underlying system to allow the full manageability of data and a way around the limitations of vertically integrated offerings from OT vendors. For instance, while organisations can introduce “bolted-on” computer vision systems, they will lack the ability to fully realise these technologies until their underlying system is transformed, allowing them full manageability of their data. So how can manufacturers bring together their disparate data sources to fully realise edge computing and AI? This is where an open source approach to technology is critical to accelerating the level of innovation.

Because open source solutions are, by their very nature, flexible, open, and interoperable, they revolve around a collaborative ecosystem approach to building, testing, and innovating. This makes for unparalleled flexibility to accelerate the innovation feedback loop in continuous manufacturing processes.

Implementing autonomous operations on the shop floor through a consistent platform approach

Smart factories, or software-defined factories, are playing a crucial role in amplifying the speed at which manufacturers can innovate. According to a report by McKinsey, smart manufacturing has the potential to create up to US$3.7 trillion in value by 2025, driving growth, innovation, and competitiveness across sectors. But this doesn’t happen overnight.

To make smart factories a reality, manufacturers need to change the traditional bespoke, single-function software/hardware integrated systems to platforms that can host multiple functions, leverage automation, and be managed at scale. They also need to build and operate these functions in the same way from the cloud to the edge and from large scale-out systems to small form factors for easier development and testing, and eventually deployment and management.

Getting the most out of data with intelligent data services

Growing supply chains, smart devices, sensors, and more have created an influx of data in modern manufacturing. With this comes a lot of complexity, but also the potential for efficient, and sustainable data-driven operations. By integrating operations with digitisation initiatives, and manufacturing execution system (MES) adoption, the visibility of activities from the shop floor to the top floor is enhanced.

The integration of operational data across both IT and OT environments can provide a comprehensive, unified view of the organisation and optimisations. It’s here where open source technologies can play a vital role in improving system security postures and better protecting potentially sensitive data.

A shift to private networks for advanced connectivity

Private networks and edge computing are two inextricably linked technologies that are poised to improve the performance of applications and enable huge amounts of data to be processed in real-time. Service providers will play a big role in this shift as many manufacturers will need to turn to private 5G networks to handle the massive increase in the volume of machine-generated data for faster decision-making, more secure and reliable connectivity, analytics, AI, and more.

For example, video cameras, robotics, and conveyor belts can all be connected through a private 5G wireless network, with each device serving an edge application with an embedded AI/ML (machine learning) model that helps in inferencing and making quick decisions. Through private 5G networks, manufacturers will be able to realise greater cost reduction, preventative maintenance in realtime, energy self-sufficiency, operational efficiency, more flexibility, and faster time-to-market.

Greater security and standardisation

When you have rapid changes to adapt to business needs - platform security and standardisation must stay top of mind for true scalability. In a 2023 S & P Global Report on the state of edge security, nearly half (47%) of decision makers surveyed said that data, network, and physical/digital device security are among their biggest challenges in edge deployment.

The more devices you have, the greater the attack surface and this can be a complex problem to have. Organisations need more standardisation with a common platform that has consistent and reliable security capabilities that can help manufacturers manage security at scale. This reduces operational complexity and helps organisations achieve greater interoperability.

As we implement the platforms needed to manage data and infuse AI on the factory floor with modernised, secure, scalable, and manageable edge infrastructure, it’s enticing to think about how much more we can do in the manufacturing sector.

There’s so much potential in areas like worker safety, sustainable product design, predictive maintenance, and supply chain optimisation. And the open source technology ecosystem will continue to collaborate and innovate together on the possibilities. redhat.com

OPINIONS FROM ACROSS THE MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY

Logistics in 2024

Iron Mountain 2024 Predictions for warehouse & logistics. By Garry Valenzisi, Vice President & General Manager, Asia Pacific, Global Industries, Iron Mountain.

Over the past three years, many organisations have undergone significant transformations in response to emerging threats and global disruptors. This evolution has required all of us to become more resilient, moving away from reactive measures and towards proactive anticipation. By building resilience against potential future threats rather than merely responding to familiar ones, organisations are now more capable of adapting to unforeseen risks and seizing emergent opportunities.

Globally, more than 90% of organisations are placing increased emphasis on risk management because of recent global and economic disruptions. Additionally, executives are paying more attention to environmental risks than they have in past years. The key challenges for the Warehouse & Logistics industry in 2024 fall into three categories – modernising operations, sustainability, and workforce disruptions.

Cost-effective and agile warehousing and logistics solutions

While organisations are no longer content with a rising tide of risks emerging beyond their walls, risk managers must also continue to focus on threats closer to home, whether the source is people, processes or regulatory requirements. Organisations have fallen into the trap of perceiving the risk function as a cost centre that places hurdles in the way of making money. However, supply chain disruptions, from global events to geopolitical shifts,natural disasters to public health crises, can impact the flow of goods, leading to disruptions and financial loss.

Australia continues to have strong demand for high-quality warehouse space. Last year’s take-up of 3.2 million square metres was the second highest ever, surpassed only by the 4.3 million square metres leased in 2021, according to JLL data. However, the resultant higher rents and longer leases are putting strain on balance sheets. Warehouse as a Service (WaaS) can support modernisation and provide significantly more flexibly.

We think 2024 will see heightened demand for WaaS, supporting end users to modernise their supply chain operations. Businesses will prioritise agile supply chains, leading to an increased adoption of WaaS to adapt to changing market conditions and demands. WaaS offers a flexible and cost-efficient alternative to owning and managing warehouses.

Sustainability

Climate change threatens our future, but its effects are already with is. Extreme weather is becoming more intense and more frequent, whilst biodiversity is under rising stress. There are also catastrophic impacts on trade and infrastructure, and, as such, organisations are focused on maintaining diverse and flexible supply chains to produce sustainable delivery models and client retention rates. While they focus on resilience, they are also coming under pressure from stakeholders to help address the underlying problems; resource depletion, environmental degradation and dangerous emissions. Failure to act on these issues could have server repercussions such as the tightening energy performance standards on new and leased buildings will see occupiers modernising their estates, at the risk of being served huge fines. While retrofit activity will drive a significant number of efficiencies, the demand for new spaces built to modern standards will rise. The sustainable nature of the warehouse of the future will be another important consideration. Providers will

need to support customers to achieve their net zero goals. EPC changes will drive customers to demand higher standards from their suppliers to ensure requirements are met ahead of deadlines.

Workforce disruption

An organisation’s staff is both its greatest asset and its biggest vulnerability, reflecting in the efforts and resources that organisations dedicate to recruiting, retaining and training workers. Digitalisation has placed staff closer to critical processes, increasing risk and accelerating the pace at which it manifests.

Automation and AI improve safety and increase efficiency in warehouse operations. It alleviates the workforce shortages the industry faces, however cost and flexibility are still a barrier for many companies. The warehouse and logistics sector will continue to face challenges around attracting and retaining talent in key roles. Combined with the continued impact of legislation and global events impacting labour availability, organisations may need to contend with shortages for some time.

According to our recent research from the economist, 96% indicate their organisation has developed new workforce management, policies and procedures.

Today, the risk management profession has become more influential and sophisticated and is embedded in the culture and structure of most large organisations. Looking ahead towards 2024 and beyond, its role and methodologies will face continued pressure to keep up with a risk environment that is in a constant state of change. There has been a tendency to consider a risk strategy that could cope with every threat experienced in the past as sufficient, yet the past is a poor indicator of how risk will manifest in the future. In response, warehousing and logistics risk managers must be constantly evolving as new threats and disruptors come into focus. In particular, this sector needs to continue along the journey from reaction to anticipation, building resilience against the threats to come rather than simply responding to familiar ones. ironmountain.com/en-au

Balluff Australia

What manufacturers need to know about securing IIoT data. Jim Wallace, Sales Manager at Balluff Australia and member of Open IIoT.

As more companies continue to embrace the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), hackers are paying close attention. IoT devices, used to exchange and convey sensitive data have become prime targets for opportunistic hackers in 2023.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the number of businesses falling victim to cyberattacks has in fact doubled over the past three years. “In 2020, one in 10 businesses were privy to cyberattacks, while in 2023, it was one in five. This figure shows that cybercrime is increasing significantly as hackers spot more opportunity,” explains Jim Wallace, Sales Manager at Balluff Australia and member of Open IIoT.

Open IIoT is a cohort of some of Australia’s most prominent automation brands, with current members SMC Corporation Australia & New Zealand, ARGUS, NORD DRIVESYSTEMS, Beckhoff Australia, Balluff. The group is focused on IIoT advocacy and increased Industry 4.0 implementation across the country and notes with concern the uptick in cybersecurity threats over the last two years.

“Once a hacker gains entrance into an IIoT network they can gain control of any exposed devices connected to the system and use this interconnected gateway to compromise other devices and even the network itself,” Jim says. “The real-world impact of this kind of crime is devastating. A successful attack on an IIoT network can cripple a manufacturing facility for days and incur hundreds of thousands of dollars in costs.”

Designing an IIoT-specific security framework

Wallace stresses that because IIoT networks are so vulnerable to interception, the underlying architecture is critical. “To safeguard these networks, companies must adopt a security strategy distinct from that of enterprise data networks,” Wallace says. This begins by implementing robust authentication mechanisms to ensure that only authorised users and devices can access the IIoT system. Here, Jim recommends defining and enforcing standard authorisation policies for controlling access to sensitive data and functionalities. Further security measures include ensuring that all data travelling on the IIoT network is end-to-end encrypted and only accessible by designated staffers with an encryption key. Segmentation, which limits access by separating which devices are connected to certain parts of the network, prevents hackers from infiltrating the entire network.

“To bolster network defence, scrutinising inbound data traffic identifies potential DDoS attacks, while monitoring outbound traffic empowers IT staff to swiftly pinpoint compromised devices and take immediate defensive actions,” Wallace adds.

Ensuring the integrity of stored data

Implementing mechanisms like checksums or hash functions can detect any unauthorised modifications or tampering with stored data. “Don’t forget about data lifecycle management here – you should have a strategy for securely disposing of obsolete data to ensure that it can’t be compromised,” says Wallace. “In a worstcase scenario, cybersecurity breaches can mean a widespread loss of data. To mitigate loss and system disruptions. have a robust data backup and recovery strategy – and test it regularly to ensure recovery effectiveness.”

Rethinking your approach to IIoT security

Protecting the integrity of your IIoT-enabled devices and networks is an ongoing process that doesn’t end once the network’s system architecture has been reinforced as outlined above. Instead, Jim believes that manufacturers will need to adopt a ‘security first’ mindset to their everyday processes – an approach that should include the following measures:

- Employee Training: All employees should receive regular training on cybersecurity best practice and adhering to policies. As an added layer of protection, staffers should have passwords with multi-factor authentication and change these passwords on a monthly basis.

- Monitoring and Anomaly Detection: Continuous monitoring of IIoT systems can detect any unusual activity or anomalies that may indicate a security breach.

- Incident Response: A clearly-defined incident response plan must be in place to address any threats promptly, with steps that must be followed.

- Vendor Security: The security measures of all IIoT vendors should be reviewed, with manufacturers encouraged to evaluate their track record and select the vendor with the highest level of protection.

“Remember that IIoT data processing and storage must be compliant with regulatory standards to protect privacy and proprietary information. In Australia these regulations differ from state to state, so I recommend consulting with an expert, such as our Open IIoT members, in to ensure all standards are met,” Wallace concludes.

Open IIoT is an initiative of some of Australia’s most prominent automation brands – SMC Corporation ANZ, Beckhoff Automation, NORD DRIVESYSTEMS, Balluff, and ARGUS. It was founded with the mission of delivering valuable, efficient and easy-to-understand information on Industry 4.0, IIoT and other related topics to endusers and the broader manufacturing industry. Our industry experts break down the jargon and tackle real-world automation concerns to help customers unlock IIoT opportunities for commercial value – and ultimately advance Australia’s economy through smart manufacturing. balluff.com/en-au openiiot.com.au

Australia: Find the exact location of a power fault in minutes

Some of Victoria’s worst bushfires have been started by power lines. So, power distribution companies have installed devices that limit the energy flowing to the fault to cut the fire risk. However, in networks equipped with these devices, communities might experience power outages for hours while network operators attempt to track down a fault along tens of kilometres of power line. “In trials in China and Switzerland we demonstrated that our technology can find the fault location to within hundreds of metres in a few minutes, instead of hours or days,” says Monash University engineering researcher, Dr Reza Razzaghi. Australian grids have different characteristics to those in the trial countries. So, a proof-of-concept project was undertaken recently, supported by the Centre for New Energy Technologies (C4NET) and two major distribution network service providers in Victoria.

Following the Black Saturday fires, Victoria’s Distribution Network Service Providers widely adopted devices called Rapid Earth Fault Current Limiters (REFCLs) across power networks in high fire risk areas. These devices are installed at substations and function like a safety switch. When a fault is detected on one of the three wires that make up a high voltage power distribution line, the device rapidly reduces the amount of energy flowing to the fault.

Since their roll out, they have been effective in reducing fire risks associated with power line faults. However, in networks with REFCLs, faults leave little or no visible evidence. This means repair crews can spend hours patrolling tens of kilometres of power lines, some inaccessible by road, to find the problem so they can fix it.

A fault in a power line, caused say by a falling tree, generates a series of characteristic electrical signals that travel on the line. Reza and his team realised that they could analyse these signals to locate the fault. They use a technique known as Time Reversal, which has been used in other applications such as medical imaging and telecommunications. “Our system automatically records and analyses the fault signals propagating through the power line,” says Reza. “Then it uses a model of the power network in an embedded computer to play back the signal transmission in reverse. This involves many real time calculations, but in seconds to minutes, it can locate the fault, to within hundreds of metres.”

While competing technologies are in development, the time reversal technology’s advantage is that it needs many fewer devices to be installed in a power network. This was demonstrated in an extensive trial in Switzerland. The tests in Switzerland involved a mixed overhead and underground 22kV distribution network. The fault location technology was installed in a zone substation and successfully found the location of those faults in the branched network.

Monash Energy Institute

JAPAN: Yanmar unveils concept Model e-X1 for zero emission agriculture

Yanmar AG has shown off an electric drive compact electric agricultural machine designed to achieve zero emissions in agriculture. Electric agricultural machines not only offer environmental performance but also the superior quietness and environmental friendliness of electric motors, promising improved working conditions for nighttime, suburban farming, and operations within greenhouses. Yanmar AG has unveiled a prototype of a small electric agricultural machine at a stakeholder event, with a view to commencing market monitoring by 2025.

The machine can operate rotary tillers and grass cutters at the front and rear, enabling tasks like weeding, snow removal, and cultivating. Opting for crawlers instead of wheels ensures stable operation on slopes and uneven terrain. With no driver's seat, the machine

guarantees operator safety during agricultural tasks through remote control. The incorporation of autonomous driving features is also under consideration. Yanmar AG plans to actively progress toward mass-production through rigorous design and testing, with the goal of contributing to the decarbonization of the agricultural sector.

Trade Farm Machinery

Scotland: Space reflectors could ensure bright future for solar power farms

Reflectors placed in orbit around the Earth which reflect sunlight towards future solar power farms at dawn and dusk could help accelerate the transition to net-zero, researchers say. Space engineers from the University of Glasgow have published new research showing how kilometre-wide orbiting reflectors could boost the output of future large-scale solar farms by reflecting additional sunlight towards them even after the sun has set.

In a paper published as a preprint in the journal Acta Astronautica, the researchers describe how they used sophisticated computer simulations to help determine the most effective method of using orbiting solar reflectors to generate additional power. Their models showed that putting 20 gossamer-thin reflectors into orbit 1000 kilometres from the surface of the Earth could reflect sunlight to solar farms for an extra two hours each day on average. The additional sunlight could boost the output of the world’s future solar farms, particularly after sunset when electricity demand is high. The output could be scaled up further by adding more reflectors or increasing their size. The reflectors would maintain an orbit close to the Earth’s terminator line – the boundary where daylight on one side of the planet transitions into night on the other – in an arrangement known as a Walker constellation. Walker constellations are widely used in technologies like satellite communication systems, where groups of equally-spaced satellites form rings around the planet to ensure consistent communication with the Earth’s surface.

Acta Astronautica

Australia: Quantum computing engineers perform multiple control methods in just one atom

Quantum computing engineers at UNSW Sydney have shown they can encode quantum information – the special data in a quantum computer – in four unique ways within a single atom, inside a silicon chip. The feat could alleviate some of the challenges in operating tens of millions of quantum computing units in just a few square millimetres of a silicon quantum computer chip.

In a paper published recently in Nature Communications the engineers described how they used the sixteen quantum ‘states’ of an antimony atom to encode quantum information. Antimony is a heavy atom that can be implanted in a silicon chip, replacing one of the existing silicon atoms. It was chosen because its nucleus possesses eight distinct quantum states, plus an electron with two quantum states, resulting in a total of 8 x 2 = 16 quantum states, all within just one atom. Reaching the same number of states using simple quantum bits – or qubits, the basic unit of quantum information – would require manufacturing and coupling four of them. Lead author Irene Fernandez de Fuentes says the team, under the guidance of Scientia Professor Andrea Morello, drew on more than a decade’s work that had established different methods of quantum control to show all were possible within the same atom. The antimony atom was implanted in the chip by colleagues at the University of Melbourne, using facilities of the Heavy Ion Accelerators at the Australian National University.

“First, we showed that we could control the antimony’s electron with an oscillating magnetic field, similar to the breakthrough in 2012 which was the first time a qubit had ever been demonstrated in silicon,” she says. “Next we showed that we could use a magnetic field to manipulate the spin of the antimony’s nucleus. This is the standard magnetic resonance method, as used for example in MRI machines in hospitals. The third method was to control the nucleus of the antimony atom with an electric field, something that was discovered by lucky accident in 2020.

“And the fourth way was to control both the antimony nucleus and the electron in opposition to each other, using an electric field using so-called flip-flop qubits, which was demonstrated by this team last year. “This latest experiment shows that all four of these methods can be used in the same silicon chip using the same architecture.”

Nature Communications

Australia: Groundbreaking titanium structure shows supernatural strength

A 3D printed ‘metamaterial’ boasting levels of strength for weight unseen in nature or the manufacturing world could change how we make everything from medical implants to aircraft or rocket parts. RMIT University researchers created the new metamaterial – a term used to describe an artificial material with unique properties not observed in nature – from common titanium alloy.

But it’s the material’s unique lattice structure design, recently revealed in the journal Advanced Materials, that makes it anything but common: tests show it’s 50% stronger than the next strongest alloy of similar density used in aerospace applications. Lattice structures made of hollow struts were originally inspired by nature: strong hollow-stemmed plants like the Victoria water lily or the hardy organ pipe coral (Tubipora musica) showed us the way in combining lightness and strength.

However, as RMIT’s Distinguished Professor Ma Qian explains, decades of trying to replicate these hollow ‘cellular structures’ in metals has been frustrated by the common issues of manufacturability and load stress concentrating on the inside areas

of the hollow struts, leading to premature failures. “Ideally, the stress in all complex cellular materials should be evenly spread,” Qian explained. “However, for most topologies, it is common for less than half of the material to mainly bear the compressive load, while the larger volume of material is structurally insignificant.”

Metal 3D printing provides unprecedented innovative solutions to these issues. By pushing 3D printing design to its limits, the RMIT team optimised a new type of lattice structure to distribute the stress more evenly, enhancing its strength or structural efficiency.

Advanced Materials

Australia: Setting a new standard of precision in making quantum computer chips

Australian researchers have broken a new record in precision manufacturing, in the quest to fabricate the silicon chips of future quantum computers. The team showed that phosphorous ions can be implanted in silicon crystal with 99.95% confidence, while at the same time being precisely located within the chip. The achievement is significant because the manufacturing method, based on ion implantation, is the same as that already used today to make the binary bits in conventional computers. It thus offers a flexible and scalable way to fabricate donor qubits for quantum computers without having to "reinvent the wheel”.

Advanced Quantum Technologies

Australia: AlleSense potential product to enhance cancer diagnosis

AlleSense has been created to support the commercialisation of technology invented by La Trobe researchers Prof Brian Abbey and Dr Eugeniu Balaur from the La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science and the School of Computing, Engineering and Mathematical Sciences. Their world-first nanofabricated microscope slide –NanoMslide – uses colour contrast to easily and quickly identify abnormal cells in a suspect sample.

NanoMslide works by applying a special coating created using cutting edge nanofabrication technology, to the humble glass microscope slide, effectively turning it into a miniature chemistry lab, reducing time and removing dyes from the process. It can be applied to any tissue and has shown significant promise in aiding the diagnosis of early stage and difficult-to-diagnose cancers – including breast cancer. AlleSense will be established with an initial investment of $2.5, which is being driven by Welcome Ventures. It will enable researchers to progress development of the NanoMslide to clinical trials and facilitate further technology validation with their global partners. Julian Sutton from Welcome will be AlleSense’s inaugural Managing Director.

The investment will also support the scale-up of manufacturing of the product, ensuring the slides will be produced in Australia for a global market. The AlleSense team is validating their manufacturing and quality management system with support from the Australian National Fabrication Facility (ANFF) and its ANFF-C translation fund, as well as the ANFF-funded Melbourne Centre for Nanofabrication (MCN), which purchased an instrument to support the team’s proofof-scale studies. They plan for the technology to undergo rapid clinical translation and be available for research use by the end of 2024.

Nature

Flexicon conveyor system

Mobile tilt-down flexible screw conveyor system for manual dumping, bulk bag discharging.

A new Tilt-Down Flexible Screw Conveyor System is mounted on a portable base with a multi-purpose hood and an integral dust collector. This allows manual dumping from handheld sacks as well as discharging from bulk bags, subsequently transferring material to elevated downstream process equipment and storage vessels at multiple plant locations, dust free.

Discharging from bulk bags requires the user's forklift or plant hoist to suspend the bag above the dust hood, allowing the bag spout to be cinched by an iris valve, untied and then released gradually to prevent uncontrolled bursts of material from the bag. Alternately, hand-held sacks can be rested on a fold-down support tray, slit open, and manually dumped into the hopper.

Airborne dust generated by either process is drawn away from the operator's area through the dust hood by a side-mounted BAG-VAC™ dust collector vented from the hood. To maintain operational efficiency, reverse-pulse air jets on a timed cycle remove accumulated dust build-up on filter surfaces, dropping it to the bottom of the dust collector for later removal and disposal. The flexible screw conveyor features an inner stainless-steel screw of specialised geometry to propel both free- and non-free-flowing bulk materials including products that pack, cake, smear, seize or fluidise, with no separation of blends.

The support boom and conveyor assembly can be tilted down to manoeuver through standard doorways and aisles, and around corners for use anywhere in the plant. A low centre of gravity maximises stability during operation and when rolling the unit between multiple processing tasks and wash-down stations.

When fully lowered, the tilt-down mechanism positions the cleanout cap of the conveyor tube higher off the plant floor, and the conveyor's discharge closer to the floor, allowing removal and

Bonfiglioli HDO

re-insertion of the flexible screw from standing height during cleaning and inspection. The unit is constructed of carbon steel with a durable industrial coating. All stainless steel construction with material contact surfaces finished to sanitary standards is also available.

Flexicon also manufacture tubular cable conveyors, pneumatic conveying systems, bulk bag dischargers, bulk bag conditioners, bulk bag fillers, drum/box/container tippers, weigh batching and blending systems, and engineered plant-wide bulk handling systems with automated controls. flexicon.com.au

Bonfiglioli’s ‘strong and silent’ HDO units deliver power for heavy-duty applications.

When Australian zinc refinery, Sun Metals, sought a strong, space-saving power transmission solution with a long lifespan for use in its Low Profile Feeder (LPF), it selected the Heavy Duty HDO Series 170 gearbox, from Bonfiglioli’s range. Powered by a 75kW motor, this unit produces 127,700Nm of torque, in silent and vibration-free operation, enabling Sun Metals to efficiently handle almost 400t of zinc concentrate every hour.

Complementing the many benefits offered by Bonfiglioli’s range of heavy-duty solutions, is the company’s approach. “It is important for us to really understand the customers’ needs with such high value projects to ensure we get it right the first time,” says Martin Broglia, MD of Bonfiglioli Australia and New Zealand. Bonfiglioli’s large stockholding, and its focus on local assembly and support enables it to offer customised solutions which are locally supported. “We work to sustain our customers’ investments, extending the useful life of their equipment,” adds Broglia. “Our goal is to ensure that customers achieve maximum uptime, productivity and profitability. Our local team of technical specialists is on hand to provide support and comprehensive after-sales service to customers. We are further supported by our global network of branches and distributors.”

The HDO Series: The strong, silent type

The compact but rugged HDO Series, with cast iron housing, offers a costefficient power transmission solution with a long operating life. Available in a wide range of sizes, the HDO Series offers highly transmissible power, with a wide torque range from 8,990Nm up to 209,000Nm. This is a flexible and versatile gear unit, with variable output shaft configuration (either parallel or right angle) and a variety of mounting options.

In addition, a wide range of gearbox customisation options and accessories are available, including: auxiliary cooling or heating devices, forced lubrication systems, backstop devices, seals and gaskets in various types and materials, as well as sensors and drywell designs for vertical shaft installations.

The HDO Series includes an Atex version for use in explosive environments.

“For over 60 years, Bonfiglioli has developed specialised heavy-duty solutions, collaborating closely with leading OEM brands to design power transmission products that meet the rigorous demands of a range of industry sectors. Our HDO Series leads the way, as a powerful, reliable and efficient solution which is locally assembled and supported,” concludes Martin. bonfiglioli.com/australia/en

Mobile Tilt-Down Flexible Screw Conveyor System with multi-purpose hood and integral dust collector allows manual dumping from handheld sacks, discharging from bulk bags, and transferring of material to elevated downstream equipment, dust-free.

Detmold Masks up

Australian face mask manufacturer Detmold Medical has launched a new range of Tri-Panel Respirators and a Surgical Mask with Visor.

The new Surgical Visor expands the Level 3 Surgical range, featuring Level 3 Surgical Masks with ear loops and head ties. It comes with a pleated L3 surgical mask, attachment ties for a secure fit, as well as an integrated anti-glare visor that has undergone fog treatment. The clear visors have also been designed to attach to the masks, allowing glasses to be worn underneath without impacting efficacy.

The Detmold Medical Level 3 Surgical Visor mask has been designed as a non-sterile disposable mask for use in the healthcare, aged care and dental industries. The Tri-Panel respirator range includes a Level 3 N95 surgical Respirator, a P2 N95 Medical Respirator and a Class P2 Particulate Respirator, having been designed to improve comfort and deliver high performance for breathability, targeting the healthcare and industrial sectors.

The Tri-Panel respirators are single use, non-sterile respiratory devices that provide the highest level of protection: The L3 N95 Surgical Respirator (ARTG 438510), with red headbands, has been engineered to deliver protection against high-intensity fluid sprays while providing protection against non-oil-based airborne particulates and bacteria. The P2 N95 Medical Respirator (ARTG 439074), with blue headbands, provides comfort and high breathability, filtering out non-oil-based airborne particulates and bacteria.

The Class P2 Particulate Respirator (ARTG 439074), with grey headbands, has been specifically engineered to filter out more than 95% of airborne particles including dust, smoke and mist while being comfortable to wear and secure. Detmold Medical CEO Rodney Detmold said the

mask range expansion is a commitment to continuing the manufacture of products in Australia with capability and capacity.

“These masks have been designed and manufactured to meet local and international standards, tested for splash resistance and to meet performance requirements in the company’s state-of-the-art laboratory,” Mr Detmold said. With headquarters in South Australia, the Detmold Group is a third-generation, family-owned and operated business, supplying some of the world’s largest and most iconic food and retail brands. The Detmold Group operates in 17 countries and has manufacturing facilities in seven countries.

detmoldgroup.com

Multi V blade tool

Increasing production efficiency with Burrless Chamfering Cutter. XEBEC develops world’s first Multi V blade tool for burrless chamfering.

Deburring is one of the final steps in machining parts. Despite increasing automation in recent years, deburring is still an area of concern for production engineers, particularly those involved in mass production. Burrs only form on edges during the cutting process. One common way to finish edges and remove burrs is chamfering. However, chamfering with conventional straight edge cutters results in smaller secondary burrs forming on the top and bottom edges as material is pushed ahead of the blade and flows off to the sides. This can require costly additional finishing steps, often done by hand. Even with automation, if an additional five seconds are required for deburring after chamfering, then an additional 277 hours would be required for a monthly production of 200,000 units.

As a global leader in deburring soloutions, XEBEC Technologies is committed to finding a means to eliminate secondary finishing operations and has developed the Multi V Blade Burrless Chamfering tool – a world first! The unique patented cutting edge design simultaneously cuts inward from the top and bottom edge of the chamfer, pushing the chip to the centre, from where it is separated and discarded leaving the edges clean.

In order to be able to cover as many applications and materials as possible the Burrless Chamfering Cutter is offered as AlTiCrN coated, suitable for a wide range of materials including superalloys

and uncoated, suitable for non-ferrous metals, plastics and composite materials. Positioning accuracy is assured by a flat tip resistant to rounding and chipping. Chamfering sizes from 0.3 to 1.5 are possible and the multi-blade design enables high feed rates for reduced machining time whilst providing significantly increased tool life compared with straight edge blades.

hastex.net.au

xebec-tech.com/en

Showcasing the very latest in Advanced Manufacturing Technologies, Australian Manufacturing Week at Sydney’s International Convention Centre in Darling Harbour will be the coolest place to be in April.

AMTIL’s aim is for Australian Manufacturing Week to be more than just an exhibition. It will instead act as the centrepiece of a week-long celebration of manufacturing in Australia today. There are plenty of reasons to visit Australian Manufacturing week at Sydney’s ICC at Darling Harbour.

Be a witness and a part of technological evolution.

Be the first to experience innovative technologies, the very latest machinery.

Meet and network with the innovators and trendsetting individuals who spearhead this technological revolution.

Interact with peers and share ideas.

Gain first-hand exposure to the companies who are at the forefront of technological excellence.

See all the key industry brands all in one place at the same time. Everything under one roof.

Welcome to Australian Manufacturing Week

Australian Manufacturing Week is now in its 25th year, replacing National Manufacturing Week and Austech. We are very excited to bring it to you again in Sydney.

On behalf of AMTIL, our Board of Directors and staff, welcome to Australian Manufacturing Week – Australia’s premier manufacturing technology and advanced manufacturing exhibition. engage in networking with new and existing contacts, and to explore new ways to help our industry grow. The theme for the exhibition this year is “Manufuturing with Precision”. In today’s internet-ofthings driven world, more firms are winning customers through their technological superiority and ability to incorporate greater automation and high level engineering into their manufacturing processes.

As Australia’s leading showcase for the latest advanced manufacturing equipment and processes, Australian Manufacturing Week provides an unrivalled opportunity for you to see the latest state of the art technology up close, and discuss potential applications that will help your business to deliver innovative, value-added solutions. The show offers the ideal setting for people from across Australian manufacturing to exchange ideas, access useful resources,

With over 6,300 square metres of exhibition space and 270 exhibitors, we are confident that Australian Manufacturing Week will be a really strong event with something for everybody.

We would like to thank our Sponsors, Partners and local and international exhibitors for their support of the event this year. Please take the time to check out What’s On on page 10 of this directory and make the most of your time at the show. Remember to download the App and take advantage of the digital floor plan and matchmaking platform.

Please do not hesitate to contact myself or any member of the organising team if we can assist you during your visit. I wish you a beneficial and productive experience at Australian Manufacturing Week 2024.

Shane Infanti CEO AMTIL

AMW Sydney 2024 Showcasing

Seven Product Zones

AUSTECH MACHINE TOOL ZONE

The AUSTECH Machine Tools zone will be epicentre of the entire exhibition, as the oldest zone within the exhibition, AUSTECH invites the top companies within the Machine Tools and Ancillary equipment industries. The AUSTECH Machine Tools zone is specifically targeted at the metalworking, machine tool and ancillary market in Australia.

Zone Sponsor

ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING ZONE

The Additive Manufacturing zone will be showcasing the most advanced technologies within this sector. The various techniques within Additive Manufacturing include Stereolithography, Selective Laser Sintering, Material Extrusion, Sheet lamination, Binder jetting, Cold Spray processing, Material jetting, Directed energy deposition, powderbed fusion, VAT photopolymerization and wire arc manufacturing (WAAM). Many of these will be represented within the Additive Manufacturing Zone.

Zone Sponsor

AUSTRALIAN MANUFACTURERS PAVILION

The Australian Manufacturers Pavilion will be showcasing the most advanced technologies within this sector. The Australian Manufacturers Pavilion showcases the capabilities of Australia’s precision engineering and advanced manufacturing industry. The Australian Manufacturers Pavilion is where AMW celebrates the very best in Australian manufacturing, providing a showcase for some of this country’s most accomplished component manufacturers, precision engineering firms, toolmakers, advanced manufacturers, and general engineering companies.

Zone Sponsor

MANUFACTURING SOLUTIONS ZONE

The Manufacturing Solutions zone offers optimised solutions to the most common challenges experienced by manufacturers. From materials handling and warehousing to integrated manufacturing and safety solutions. The manufacturing industry would not be able to function effectively without a diverse array of ancillary technologies and support services.

Zone Sponsor

ROBOTICS & AUTOMATION ZONE

The Robotics and Automation zone will feature the latest state-of-the-art equipment and processes for the optimisation of manufacturing operations. Robots are practical technologies, with artificially intelligent software brains, created and designed by engineers to refine, manufacture, and move Australian manufacturing ahead.

Zone Sponsor

WELD & AIR SOLUTIONS ZONE

The Weld and Air Solutions zone will be showcasing the most advanced technologies within this sector. The Weld & Air Solutions Zone will highlight advanced welding processes and provide high-quality interactive experiences that demonstrate developments and applications in the welding sector.

Zone Sponsor

PLASTICS TECHNOLOGY ZONE

Plastic Technology is a specialised branch of study which includes the study of diverse types of chemicals that exhibits plasticity. It also involves the study of several methods in which plastics can be utilised for use in human life. The Plastics Technology Zone is your hands-on opportunity to see and feel the latest in plastics machinery, mould-making technologies, recycling materials, and the many plastics manufacturing processes.

Zone Sponsor

AUSTECH Machine Tools & Ancillary Equipment Zone

The AUSTECH Machine Tool & Ancillary Equipment Zone is the mainstay, the original and oldest zone within the AMW exhibition. It’s actually where it all began for AMTIL as part of the NMW Exhibition in years gone by.

The AUSTECH Machine Tools zone at AMW2024 will be epicentre of the entire exhibition and is specifically targeted at the metalworking, machine tool and ancillary equipment market in Australia. It covers advanced manufacturing products and processes including CNC Machinery, Lathes, Mills; Contract Manufacturing/Precision Machining; Cutting Tools, Tooling and Tool Holding; Forming and Fabricating Machines; Plasma, Laser, Waterjet and Ultrasonic Machines; Ancillary equipment suppliers.

The AUSTECH Machine Tools zone is proudly sponsored by finlease. finlease makes sourcing equipment finance easy. They arrange finance for all manner of equipment, cars, boats, planes and property for their clients ranging from large private companies to individuals. A few of the well-known industry leaders exhibiting at the AUSTECH Machine Tool Zone are Applied Machinery, Benson Machines, Koenig Machinery, Stamac Engineering, AMADA Oceania, ACRA Machinery, Camplex, Carbide Tools, DAVI,

Additive Manufacturing Zone

The Additive Manufacturing Zone will shine a light on the very latest technological advances in this sector.

The various techniques within Additive Manufacturing include Stereolithography, Selective Laser Sintering, Material Extrusion, Sheet lamination, Binder jetting, Cold Spray processing, Material jetting, Directed energy deposition, powderbed fusion, VAT photopolymerization and wire arc manufacturing (WAAM). Many of these will be represented within the Additive Manufacturing Zone. Previously viewed as a prototyping technology, Additive Manufacturing is now becoming more prominent in design and evaluation, modelling, rapid manufacturing, repair, tooling, fixturing and most importantly, production. A selection of the exhibitors taking part in the Additive Manufacturing Zone are Lightwave Technology, Bilby3D, Formero, Aurarum, AXT, Titomic, Shenzen Mingda Technology and WYSIWYG 3D.

Complete Machine Tools, IMTS and Techni Waterjet. With such a wide range of technologies and capabilities on display all on one floor, it would be the ONE place to be for all Australian Manufacturers, enthusiasts and professionals. At Australian Manufacturing Week you will see many exhibitors showcasing all of the above and have the opportunity to find the right process, talk to the right people, gain the right expertise and get on the right path to your goals.

Australian Manufacturers Pavilion Zone

The Australian Manufacturers Pavilion will be showcasing the most advanced technologies coming from within the shores of our great country.

The Australian Manufacturers Pavilion provides a showcase for some of this country’s most accomplished toolmakers, advanced component manufacturers, precision engineering companies, and general engineering companies. There will be saw cutting and milling solutions, sheet metal fabricators, digitisation, powder coating, laser cutting and panel folding. Exhibitors in this Zone include the Sevaan Group, Ronson Gears, Sutton Tools, Bottcher Australia and Prestige Precision Tools.

The capabilities of those exhibiting in the Australian Manufacturing Pavilion include providers of tooling technologies, cutting and milling solutions, aluminium extrusion, sheet metal fabrication, powder coating, laser cutting, digitisation and many, many other options.

Manufacturing Solutions Zone

The Manufacturing Solution Zone includes everything supporting the sector, from materials handling and warehousing to integrated manufacturing and safety solutions.

The Manufacturing Solutions Zone at AMW2024 offers optimised solutions to the most common challenges experienced by manufacturers. The manufacturing industry would not be able to function effectively without a diverse array of ancillary technologies and support services. The Manufacturing Solutions Zone is proudly sponsored The Execution Factor and their Protected Flow Manufacturing (PFM), the Real-Time production scheduling software solution that is not based on the traditional finite capacity scheduling model used by ERP systems.

The Manufacturing Solutions Zone is where you can find answers, incorporating everything from equipment for materials handling and logistics, and safety products, through to the latest software for streamlining manufacturing operations, and specialist service

Robotics and Automation Zone

The Robotics and Automation Zone will feature the lateste state of the art equipment and processes for the optimisation of manufacturing operations.

Proudly sponsored by IFS, the Robotics & Automation Zone will feature the latest state-of-the-art equipment and processes for the optimisation of manufacturing operations. IFS develops and delivers cloud enterprise software for companies who manufacture and distribute goods, build and maintain assets. Robots are practical technologies, with artificially intelligent software brains, created and designed by engineers to refine, manufacture, and move Australian manufacturing ahead. Primary among the technologies and capabilities on display will be the many designs of Industrial robotics, cobots, automated solutions, instrumentation control systems, Measurement, pneumatics, IOT solutions, Industry 4.0 and examples of digitalisation. Principle among the Robotics and Automation Zone are providers of robotics and automation

Weld & Air Solutions Zone

The Weld & Air Solutions Zone will highlight advanced welding processes and provide high-quality interactive experiences that demonstrate developments and applications in the welding sector.

The various types of Welding Technologies at Weld & Air Solutions Zone would be Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW/MIG), Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW/TIG), Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) and Flux Cored Arc Welding (FCAW). Many of these will be

providers in areas such as law, finance, skills, training, and recruitment. With such an extensive array of capabilities on display all on one floor, it would be the ONE place to be for all enthusiasts and professionals searching for the latest in Manufacturing Solutions in Australia. At Australian Manufacturing Week you will see many exhibitors showcasing all of the above and have the opportunity to find the right process, talk to the right people, gain the right expertise, and get on the right path to your goals.

An extensive range of technologies and industry leaders all on display at the one time and one place, ensures the Manufacturing Solutions Zone is on the must visit calendar for all the industry professionals and enthusiasts.

solutions, but there range expands around Smart Factory design and and blue-sky research. Among the exhibitors are some of the most advanced engineering companies in the country, and beyond. Groups like Bosch Australia Manufacturing Solutions, Universal Robots, Atlas Copco Assembly Tools, COBOT, Eterio Realities Inc., Pacific Automation, Plex by Rockwell Automation, IFS, Robotic Automation and RobotMeta.

represented within the Welding & Air Solutions Zone. The earliest examples of welding stem from the Bronze and Iron Ages in Europe and the Middle East. According to the ancient Greek historian Herodotus, the sculptor Glaucus of Chios “single-handedly invented iron welding”.

Today, robot welding is commonplace in industrial settings, and researchers continue to develop new welding methods and gain

Plastics Zone

The Plastics Technology Zone includes chemists and engineers with backgrounds in research into polymer tolerances, bringing new scientific solutions to market.

The Plastics Technology Zone is your hands-on opportunity to see and feel the latest in plastics machinery, mould-making technologies, recycling materials, and the many plastics manufacturing processes. This area will cover injection and blow moulding, extrusion, thermoforming, and compounding, mould making and toolmaking, and plastic technology processes. Plastic technology is a specialised branch of study which includes the study of diverse types of chemicals that exhibits plasticity. It also involves the study of several methods in which plastics can be utilised for used in society.

Exhibitors in the Plastic Technology Zone include a diverse range from Gerflor Australasia, Gravotech Australia, Baron Rubber, Kunming Conveyor Belt PPC Moulding Services Group and Mastars Industries. The various techniques within Plastics Technology

Your Point Guide to Choosing the Right Manufacturing

greater understanding of weld quality. Exhibitors in Sydney for the Weld & Air Solutions Zone include a range from Kemppi Australia, Laser-Welder, Orbimax, Lincoln Electric and Novarc Technologies, as well as Kaishan Australia, Nitty Gritty, Supagas, Compressed Air Technology and Apple Air Filtration Systems.

include Inject Moulding, Extrusion, Tool Making, Polymer Manufacturing, Raw materials, Compounding & Processing and Recycling Technologies. Many of these will be represented within the Plastics Technology Zone.

CAD-IT Australia

CAD-IT Australia to showcase cutting-edge solutions at Australian Manufacturing Week 2024.

In the lead-up to AMW2024, CAD-IT Australia is poised to make a substantial impact as a key exhibitor, showcasing avant-garde technologies and software solutions set to redefine the manufacturing landscape. Our booth transcends the conventional, inviting you to embark on a journey through cutting-edge technologies and transformative experiences, offering a distinctive opportunity to design and manufacture your personalised giveaway.

Upon entering the CAD-IT Australia booth, visitors will encounter a stateof-the-art simulation of a manufacturing line, providing a tangible glimpse into the capabilities of modern technological solutions. This interactive experience aims to seamlessly bridge the gap between concept and creation, enabling active engagement with CAD-IT Australia's leading-edge software offerings. Aligned with the overarching theme of AMW 2024, centered on embracing the next wave of manufacturing excellence, CAD-IT Australia's showcase promises an immersive experience. Our commitment to technological advancements and collaborative solutions sets the stage for an engaging and insightful encounter for all attendees. The simulated manufacturing line breathes life into intuitive design capabilities, streamlined product lifecycle management, and our intuitive Frontline Operations Platform. These groundbreaking technologies emanate from stories that transcend challenges and triumphs, forming the bedrock of solutions poised to redefine the manufacturing landscape.

and optimise collaboration, streamline product development processes, and enhance data management. Attendees will witness firsthand how this PLM solution seamlessly integrates with other CAD-IT Australia’s software offerings, creating a comprehensive ecosystem for efficient and collaborative manufacturing.

On the assembly line, Tulip Interfaces, our Frontline Operations Platform, takes center stage, showcasing its transformative capabilities in enhancing shop floor operations. With Tulip, manufacturing processes become more agile and adaptive, facilitating real-time insights and data-driven decision-making.

The use of Tulip for product quality testing ensures closed-loop data management from the design stage until the product leaves the doorstep. Our live dashboard is set to serve as the nerve centre for monitoring and optimising our manufacturing processes. As visitors engage with our digital solutions on the simulated shop floor, this intuitive interface will provide real-time insights into production metrics, machine performance, and quality control. Streamlining workflows and reducing errors, CAD-IT Australia’ manufacturing line ensures an immersive and efficient experience for attendees, offering a glimpse into the transformative power of modern manufacturing solutions.

Embark on your journey with Creo, an advanced ComputerAided Design (CAD) software, which showcase our dedication to empowering creativity and precision. Visitors will delve into the intuitive design capabilities of Creo, gaining insights into how this powerful tool breathes life into ideas with unparalleled accuracy and speed. Once the design reaches its final form, Windchill, our Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) solution, steps in to manage

Embracing IO-Link

Consider this your personal invitation to join us at AMW 2024. Immerse yourself in the future of manufacturing, engage with our technologies, and be a part of the transformative experiences we have in store. Connect with us at contact@caditaus.com.au for further inquiries or to schedule an appointment. The future of manufacturing awaits, and CAD-IT Australia is at the forefront, guiding you through the frontier of innovation.

CAD-IT Australia Stand MS369 caditaus.com.au

Pioneering digitalisation in Australian manufacturing with ifm efector.

As we stand on the brink of a new era in manufacturing, the integration of advanced technologies has become more crucial than ever. With Industry 4.0 driving the global industrial landscape, Australian manufacturers must seize the opportunity to innovate and adapt. At the forefront of this transformation lies IO-Link—a game-changing technology that heralds a new dawn of efficiency, productivity, and connectivity.

As a leading provider of automation technology solutions, ifm recognise the pivotal role IO-Link plays in driving digitalisation within the manufacturing sector. With its ability to seamlessly connect sensors and actuators to control systems, IO-Link empowers manufacturers with unparalleled flexibility, intelligence, and visibility across their operations.

One of the key benefits of IO-Link is its capacity to unlock the full potential of sensor data. By providing real-time insights into machine performance, production processes, and quality control, IO-Link enables manufacturers to make data-driven decisions with precision and agility. This not only enhances operational efficiency but also enables predictive maintenance, minimising downtime

and maximising uptime—a crucial factor in today's competitive landscape. As pioneers in automation technology, ifm efector is committed to supporting Australian manufacturers on their digitalisation journey. With our comprehensive range of IO-Linkenabled sensors, controllers, and software solutions, we empower manufacturers to optimise their operations, enhance productivity, and drive sustainable growth in the digital age.

Overall, IO-Link represents more than just a technological innovation—it embodies a paradigm shift in the way we perceive and approach manufacturing. As we navigate the challenges and opportunities of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, let us embrace IOLink as a catalyst for change and propel Australian manufacturing into a future of limitless possibilities. Together, let us harness the power of IO-Link to unlock new horizons of efficiency, productivity, and competitiveness in Australian manufacturing. The future is digital, and the time to embrace it is now.

ifm efector Stand RA524 ifm.com/au

Innovync

New Kreator technology empowers Australian innovators. By Tijana Trifunovich.

Decades ago, Australia was known as the Innovation Nation. Then, the era of cheap off-shore production began. Now, we’re turning the page on a new chapter - one sparked by new technology, never before seen on local shores.

Advanced Materials and Plastics lead for Sydney-based manufacturing distributor Innovync, Anthony Cruz, has his finger on the pulse of global manufacturing innovation. Innovync’s exclusive deal with Italian CNC leaders CMS is a gateway to some of the most interesting machines on the market – including the groundbreaking Kreator. Developed in collaboration with Germany’s Fraunhofer Institute, the large-format Screw Extrusion Additive Manufacturing (SEAM) technology merges with 5 axis CNC milling. A powerful fusion, to say the least. The potential for catalysing product innovation is enormous.

Australia is about to receive one of its very own in the coming months. Purchased by a public facility with a view to make prototyping in a test environment more accessible to manufacturers, the role of Australia's Kreator is to realise big ideas with minimal investment. “For example, a company can reach out to the facility and they can provide access to advanced capabilities for the development of parts, processes, people and partnerships. They are designed to deliver advanced manufacturing solutions to the customers in a production-relevant environment,” explained Cruz.

With CMS’ Advanced Materials range used by the likes of SpaceX, Boeing, and Lockheed Martin, The Kreator immediately piqued interest. The ability to 3D print parts and quickly achieve a high-

quality finish is extremely useful for high-precision industries that work with specialised materials – like the marine, automotive, and aerospace sectors.

A build volume of up to 10m, in three different directions (vertical, horizontal and 45 degrees), offers the room to create anything from tooling, trimming and assembly jigs to machining fixtures or direct lamination molds. On the printing side, materials such as PLA, PET, PA6 and ABS reinforced with up to 50% glass fibre or carbon are commonly used.

“The Kreator has been supplied to the Aerospace industry internationally and is used to produce jigs and fixtures. An example is a CFRP machining vacuum fixture. The material that’s being used is ABS + 20% carbon fibre. They print the part and then mill it to achieve a high-quality finish,” said Cruz.

“Using a traditional process, machining of epoxy tooling boards with a size of 1000 x 600 x 300mm, made from ABS + 20% carbon fibre weighs in at approximately 150kg. Using the Kreator, weight goes down to 40kg. That’s a 60% savings in materials used and weight of the part. In terms of time-saving, you would probably save about 50%,” explained Cruz.

Production on the Kreator is set to commence later in the year. If you're curious to see this machine in person, head to the Innovync stand this April for Sydney’s Australian Manufacturing Week.

Innovync Stand AM880 innovync.com.au

Laser Automation Engineering

As a beacon of advanced engineering solutions, LAE is in a joint venture with Smartlink Engineering Sdn Bhd.

Laser Automation Engineering Sdn. Bhd. (LAE) is thrilled to announce its participation in the upcoming AMW Sydney 2024 exhibition, marking a significant milestone in our 30-year history of innovation and excellence. As a beacon of advanced engineering solutions, LAE, in a joint venture with Smartlink Engineering Sdn Bhd., has garnered international acclaim for our precision machining, aerospace engineering, and manufacturing process.

At AMW 2024, our exhibition stand will spotlight our expertise in delivering a wide array of services, including precision machining, manufacturing of tools & dies, jigs & fixtures, wire & diesinker EDM, bending & welding, parts fabricating, and electrical & mechanical module assembly. With state-of-theart facilities encompassing conventional turning & milling, surface & cylinder grinding, CNC turning & milling, and CNC 5-axis milling centers, we are equipped to meet the diverse needs of industries ranging from automotive and semiconductor to medical technology. Our international footprint extends to collaborations with clients from Switzerland, the US, Japan, Italy and beyond, underscoring our adaptability and proficiency in providing tailor-made solutions that propel the advanced manufacturing industry forward. Our product range spans from high-tolerance precision parts to engineering plastics, showcasing our ability to innovate across various manufacturing domains. Adding a personal touch to our engagement at AMW2024, we are delighted to have two technical

representatives from our Malaysian office conducting live demonstrations of our innovative product solutions. These demonstrations not only highlight our technical capabilities but also underscore our commitment to forging strong partnerships and understanding the unique challenges faced by our clients.

As a token of appreciation for our booth visitors, we will be offering custom keychains engraved with our company logo, symbolising our dedication to lasting relationships and gratitude for the interest in our services. We believe these keychains will serve as a tangible reminder of LAE's commitment to excellence and our role as a trusted partner in advancing the manufacturing industry.

LAE's participation in AMW Sydney 2024 signifies more than just an exhibition presence; it's a testament to our dedication to pushing the boundaries of engineering and manufacturing. We invite industry professionals, enthusiasts, and prospective clients to join us in exploring the possibilities of precision engineering and to discover how LAE can support your ventures into the realm of advanced manufacturing. Together, let's shape the future of the industry with innovation, precision, and partnership.

Laser Automation Engineering Stand MS372

laengineering.com.my

Power Machinery Australia

Emerging as a standout exhibitor poised to captivate attendees with its cutting-edge bandsaw solutions and offers.

At the heart of Power Machinery Australia's AMW showcase lies its commitment to providing industry leading machinery and accessories tailored to meet the diverse needs of modern sheet metal and steel manufacturing. As visitors step into Power Machinery Australia’s exhibition space they will be greeted by an array of stateof-the-art machinery designed to enhance productivity, efficiency and precision across various sectors.

A highlight of Power Machinery’s offerings during AMW24 is the exclusive promotion on the range of German Wikus bandsaw blades suitable for MEP Saws. Attendees can take advantage of a staggering 50% discount off their first order. This exceptional deal underscores Power Machinery Australia's dedication to supporting local manufacturers by providing access to high quality consumables at unmatched value.

Beyond the allure of discounts, Power Machinery Australia elevates the exhibition experience with captivating bandsaw demonstrations. Skilled technicians will showcase the prowess of these precision tools demonstrating their ability to effortlessly cut through various materials with unparalleled accuracy and speed. Attendees witnessed firsthand the seamless integration of advanced technology and robust engineering, reaffirming Power Machinery Australia's reputation as a trusted provider of sheet metal and steel fabrication machine solutions.

On display will be the following machines:

• MEP Shark 382SXI Semi-Automatic Bandsaw

• MEP Shark 332 RC Konnect Automatic Saw with Programmable Mitring

• MEP Velocex High Speed Automatic Circular Saws

• Hydmech H360A Double Column Automatic Bandsaw

• Hydmech VW18 Vertical Semi Automatic Bandsaw

• MEP Arrow S Programmable Length Stop

• MEP Arrow M Manual Length Stop

• Wikus Metal Cutting Bandsaw Blades

In addition, there will even be experts from MEP’s headquarters in Italy who have flown in specifically to assist potential customers with their MEP and Hydmech product decisions. Between the MEP experts and our experienced sales and service technicians, you will have a wealth of information and resources at your fingertips.

The Power Machinery Stand will feature immersive displays showcasing the versatility and capability of Power Machinery Australia's product lineup from compact benchtop models to industrial grade behemoths, each machine embodies the pinnacle of craftsmanship and innovation. Visitors are invited to explore the interactive exhibits gaining insight into the features, applications and benefits of different machinery options. Visit our stand to receive your 50% bandsaw blade discount and to view their display and demonstration of quality saws from around the world.

Remaking history

Sydney Manufacturing Hub exhibit at Australian Manufacturing Week 2024.

The Sydney Manufacturing Hub, a Core Research facility of the University of Sydney will demonstrate several examples of design optimisation for Additive Manufacturing at our – these are several functionally identical components manufactured in different materials by different processes. This graphically shows the differences between different materials for the same load carrying capacity. We also intend to showcase a Reverse Engineering project we are currently supporting in the UK for the manufacture of a set of exhaust stacks for a WWII Spitfire Mk 1A PR IV serial number AA810 that was shot down on a Photo Reconnaissance mission seeking the Germany Battleship Turpitz over Trondheim in Norway in April of 1942. The Pilot at the time was Flight Lieutenant Alastair “Sandy” Gunn who was to become famous for his part in the “Great Escape” of 76 men from Stalagluft III Prisoner of War Camp. He was recaptured and subsequently executed.

The replica parts will be built in Inconel 718 on our Spectra H Electron Beam melting machinery. The parts were originally hand made and we will have one of the badly damaged original AA810 exhaust stacks recovered from the wreckage on display at the event. The replica parts will be based on structured light scans of original items loaned from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight’s Spitfire Mk 1.A which has the same stacks as AA810. These scans will be cleaned up to remove dents, dings, patches and weld repair artifacts and “new” digital twin exhaust stacks will be built substantially in one piece. Some prototypes of the “new” part details will be on display at AMW.

Power Machinery Stand MT885 powermachinery.com.au

It is envisaged that these parts will be certified for flight use again by the UK CAA when AA810 is eventually declared airworthy again and issued with a certificate of airworthiness following a complete restoration spanning several years.

The project well illustrates the utility of structured light scanning technology and how a physical item may be reverse engineered to generate a digital twin for subsequent [re]manufacture.

Sydney Manufacturing Hub Stand AM896 sydney.edu.au

Multicam

Multicam CNC Routing Machinery.

We are excited to be able to demonstrate how Multicam CNC routers can be a solution for engineering companies in the plastics, metal and composite products industries at AMW2024. Multicam CNC routers have been used in various engineering industries since inception and have a proven track record of reliability, versatility, and value.

Multicam Heavy Duty CNC Routing machines are proudly made in Australia. Designed for profile cutting sheet product and extrusions including metals, plastics, composite materials, and timber products, they are used in the manufacture of aluminium boats, aerospace components, truck body parts, caravan and motor home components, kitchens, furniture or any other flat sheet product.

They are used extensively in the ACM and HVAC industries and include many unique design features aimed specifically at making the processing of ACM cladding and ducting and insulation materials easier and more efficient.

Other specialist features ensure that Multicam machines are an excellent alternative to plasma and laser machines that typically have higher running costs and greater servicing demands.

Greener future

Multicam CNC routers are available in a range of sizes with process areas starting from 1200x1200mm, 2400x1200mm, 3000x1500mm with larger and custom sizes available. Multicam machines can be supplied with a variety of accessories including vacuum hold down beds, fully automatic tool changers, automatic loading and unloading attachments, mist cooling/lubrication system, chip extraction, multiple drill heads, tangentialoscillating knife attachments and more.

Multicam Systems has over 30 years of experience in the manufacture of flatbed CNC routing machinery and has been providing CNC routing solutions through our offices in Newcastle, Melbourne and Brisbane. Multicam CNC routing machines are backed up by a highly skilled team of factory trained technicians ensuring the best possible level of advice and service. The ability to link with software programs such as Fusion360, Mastercam, SolidCAM, Surfcam, Rhino, Pytha, ARTCam, EnRoute and numerous other products makes Multicam CNC routers an obvious addition to any engineering company.

Multicam Stand MT215 multicam.com.au

Elevate your manufacturing legacy with Green Energy & Carbon Management.

Australia is steering its manufacturing sector towards a greener future with an emissions reduction target of 43% by 2030 (below 2005 levels), culminating in net-zero greenhouse gas emissions across all sectors by 2050.

Next financial year 2024/25, mandatory climate reporting is expected to become an integral part of the manufacturing landscape. It is proposed that businesses which meet two of the three reporting obligation thresholds, will need to disclose their Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions, with assurance demands growing over time.

While these thresholds may not apply to you, do they apply to your clients? Your clients will be looking at you and your emissions as part of their Scope 3 financial disclosure. So, it’s time to get serious. We have seen already large businesses begin reducing their Scope 3 emissions by pushing emissions reduction targets on to their suppliers. The upcoming climate-related financial disclosure requirements will increase supply chain emissions scrutiny.

Leading manufacturers are making bold commitments to reduce supplier Scope 3 emissions. Aligning with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). These manufacturers are joining a global movement, grounded in the latest climate science, aiming to limit global warming to 1.5°C. To achieve this, GHG emissions must halve by 2030 and hit net-zero by 2050.

As an energy intensive business, it is time to create a strategy to manage new and tighter energy and emissions disclosure responsibilities. Have you set an emissions baseline? Have you explored new technologies to improve your energy productivity and reduce carbon emissions? If you’re not there yet, you don’t have to tackle these big new challenges alone.

Green Energy & Carbon Management are here to guide you through your new climate-related emissions disclosure responsibilities with deep engineering knowledge and passion. Have an expert by your side to audit your direct and indirect emissions and clearly

understand your corporate obligations. Explore tailored strategies to invest in on-site energy efficiency, productivity improvements, and renewable generation opportunities and ultimately reduce energy and carbon costs in your business.

You’ll elevate your manufacturing legacy beyond emissions reduction. Investing in an energy and carbon management strategy creates operational efficiency, cost savings, safety enhancements, and valuable marketing opportunities. Stay ahead of your competitors, embrace sustainability, and shape the future of manufacturing.

Green Energy & Carbon Management Stand MS382 gecm.com.au

CINCOM

Discover the best quote software for your business needs.

If your business sells complex products and solutions, then finding the right quote software can be a game-changing factor that not only enhances your customer experience, but also streamlines your entire quoting process.

Understanding the importance of quote software for businesses

As a business leader, you understand that the quoting process is a crucial aspect to build new business, as your customers' first impression of your business is determined by the quality and effectiveness of your quotes.

Streamlining the quoting process

Quote software is designed to streamline your entire quoting process, making it faster and more efficient. The software automates the entire process, resulting in fewer errors and faster delivery of quotes to customers. With streamlined quoting, you can handle a higher quote volume without needing additional staff, saving you both time and money.

Aligning engineering, production, and sales

As one centralised source of product information, quote software can ensure that engineering, production, and sales are all on the same page. Reps won’t be able to quote something that can’t actually be built.

Increasing customer satisfaction

With quote software, you can create professional and accurate quotes that enhance your customer experience. By delivering timely and accurate quotes, you show your customers that you value their time and help build trust and credibility with your customers.

Rittal EPLAN

Quote software solutions help you personalise your quotes and offer targeted promotions, improving your customer retention and satisfaction.

Reducing errors and inefficiencies

Quote software eliminates the need for manual calculations and data entry, reducing errors and increasing your sales efficiency. You can reduce the time it takes to create complex quotes from hours to minutes while ensuring accuracy. Additionally, quote software can help optimise your pricing strategy and improve your sales performance.

Choosing the right quote software solution

Quote software is an essential tool for businesses that want to streamline their quoting process, enhance their customer experience, and reduce errors and inefficiencies. By investing in quote software, you can save time and money, improve your sales performance, and build strong relationships with your customers. Cincom CPQ™ makes quoting easy, especially for businesses with complex products or service packages.

Cincom Systems Stand MS202 cincom.com/au

Experience Rittal’s Innovation at the Australian Manufacturing Week: Redefining Efficiency and Sustainability. and lower infrastructure costs, these centres are ideal for real-time data analysis and enhanced operational efficiency. By enabling edge computing, which processes data closer to where it's generated, these data centres significantly cut down latency and improve the integration of IoT and AI technologies into manufacturing processes.

In today’s rapidly evolving manufacturing landscape, the search for efficiency, sustainability, and innovation is at the forefront of industry priorities. As digital transformation reshapes traditional manufacturing processes, there's a growing need for solutions that not only enhance operational efficiency but also integrate seamlessly with emerging technologies such as AI, IoT, and smart automation. Rittal, renowned for its German engineering excellence, offers a comprehensive suite of solutions designed to meet the complex demands of modern manufacturing. As Industry 4.0 and sustainability shift from emerging trends to essential requirements, Rittal's offerings, including the Blue e+ S cooling systems, Micro Data Centres, and Eplan software, have emerged as the ultimate solution for contemporary manufacturing needs.

Blue e+ S cooling systems

The Blue e+ S cooling systems represent a significant advancement in machine cooling technology, focusing on energy efficiency and environmental sustainability. These systems are engineered to minimise energy consumption and reduce the carbon footprint of manufacturing operations. By maintaining optimal operating conditions, the Blue e+ S series extends the lifespan of machinery and lowers operational costs, marking a step forward in sustainable manufacturing practices.

Micro Data Centre

Rittal's Micro Data Centres offer a compact and scalable solution tailored to the manufacturing sector's increasing demand for efficient data processing and storage. Designed for quick deployment

EPLAN

Rittal's advanced electrical engineering software, seamlessly enhances the manufacturing process by improving design and production efficiency. It significantly advances the integration and efficiency of the manufacturing value chain, reducing time-tomarket and improving product quality. By fostering a collaborative environment for design and engineering, EPLAN streamlines manufacturing projects, leading to greater precision and efficiency.

Discover Rittal's comprehensive manufacturing solutions at the upcoming Australian Manufacturing Week. Take the opportunity to speak with our Rittal experts and see our state-of-the-art Blue e+ S cooling systems, Micro Data Centres, EPLAN software, and our latest air conditioning units in action.

Rittal

Stand MS385 rittal.com/au-en/

Fishbowl

Inventory management system Fishbowl helps companies scale-up when the going gets big.

Fishbowl is an inventory management solution that provides features and functionality for small to enterprise-sized warehousing and manufacturing businesses. Fishbowl performs inventory management tasks such as: Barcoding, Serial number and batch tracking, Advanced bill of materials and work orders and has Seamless accounting integrations with Xero, Intuit QuickBooks Online, and Reckon Accounts. “Managing inventory involves numerous tasks and components that all need to work in harmony on a continuing basis to produce the desired results,” said Fishbowl APAC Managing Director, Simon Jupe. “Most businesses start small and with very manual processes, but to take your business to the next level, you really need to have the right tools and the right automation to help you scale appropriately,” he said.

“Our software solution provides our clients with granular visibility into their operations, efficiency to streamline and grow, and flexibility to customize today and in the future, all at a fraction of the cost of other ERP systems on the market,” Jupe said. There’s a lot more than just functionality to consider when deciding to take on an inventory management system to improve the way your business operates. Implementation and onboarding is a huge element too. How the system is set up and how staff perceive the need for the solution all play crucial roles in whether the system will succeed.

Kaeser Australia

“Getting set up right from the outset is crucial. Our clients are everything to us and our entire awesome team does everything they can to deliver the best setup, service and business solutions around,” Jupe said.

Fishbowl Stand RA342 fishbowlinventory.com.au

Kaeser Australia has launched the latest class 0 oil-free compressor, the new CSG.1 rotary screw compressors.

Kaeser Australia’s new CSG.1 rotary screw compressors have air flow rates ranging from 4 to 15m³/min and pressures up to 11bar. Customers are offered the choice of air- or water-cooling, and can select an optional integrated refrigeration dryer or an i.HOC (Heat of Compression) dryer. The CSG.1 can be specified as a fixed speed, fixed flow rated machine or, for applications with fluctuating compressed air demand, variable speed controlled ‘SFC’ versions are available with IE5 Ultra-Premium Efficiency synchronous reluctance motors.

The risk of potential product contamination by oil from the rotary screw compressor is evaluated and minimised by means of an HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point) analysis. Process validation is made easier for the customer, as KAESER’s diligence is confirmed by the TÜV Rheinland in the form of a residual oil class 0 certificate in accordance with ISO 8573-1.

The CSG.1 has also been certified according to ISO 22000:2018, which covers the manufacture of food and beverage equipment. To further formalise the supply chain’s integrity, customers can also option the CSG.1 with Pharmaceutical, Food or Engineering Industry Certification Packages. Additionally, customers can request certification that the machine is free of silicone contamination, as per VW PV 3.10.7.

Kaeser’s patented, energy-efficient Sigma Profile rotors now feature an innovative, wear-resistant PEEK coating, which results in an airend that will exhibit no air flow loss during its lifetime.

Developed in-house, the special coating has three layers; nanoceramic, PEEK basecoat and topcoat. This coating is biocompatible, FDA-certified and compliant with European requirement VO 1935 for food contact materials, making it ideal for use in the food and pharmaceutical industries.

The latest iteration of the integrated Sigma Control 2 (SC2) controller not only provides dependable and energy-efficient control of the compressor operation, but also enables connection to any master compressed air management system.

Furthermore, the SC2 continually monitors a number of sensors throughout the CSG.1 (including motor bearing temperature, winding temperatures and airend vibration) to ensure the compressor is operating within its optimal conditions at all times. These and other optimisation measures have enabled efficiencies to be honed even further. The updated CSG.1 series is able to deliver 16% higher flow rates from the same power-rated motor as previous. A further aim of the range’s refinement was to improve the compressor heat recovery systems. This allows the heat generated by compression to be easily incorporated into other aspects of the business, such as space or process heating, thus allowing maximum reduction in the CO² footprint.

Whether for the semiconductor, food or automotive industries, Kaeser’s two-stage dry-running compressors tirelessly prove that process-appropriate purity and cost-effectiveness can go hand in hand – even under adverse conditions. The updated CSG.1 series sees service intervals for the compressor as well as gear oil changes extended by 50%. This reduces service costs and also means less materials are consumed.

Many of the materials used in the manufacture of the machines are recyclable. And the product’s exceptional durability means they can serve a company for long periods of time, reducing costs and environmental impact.

Kaeser Australia Stand WA635 au.kaeser.com

SYSPRO MOM

SYSPRO to showcase its advanced manufacturing ERP software at AMW.

This year at AMW in Sydney, SYSPRO is set to showcase its industry-built ERP system and complementary Manufacturing Operations Management (MOM) platform to event visitors. With its embedded analytics and inventory optimisation capabilities, SYSPRO is heralding a new era for manufacturing efficiency and intelligence, helping manufacturers pivot towards increased growth and success.

SYSPRO ERP solutions are enabling and empowering modern manufacturers through the automation and integration of core business processes. Its ERP solutions can capture and manage business data, presenting it in ways that make it both intuitively easy to understand, and more powerful. Trends and anomalies can be identified, analysed and leveraged with unprecedented ease and speed.

SYSPRO's ERP system stands out for its deep integration capabilities, offering a comprehensive solution that covers all aspects of business operations from financial management to supply chain logistics. This year, the focus is on how SYSPRO ERP enhances operational efficiency, reduces costs and improves decision-making processes through real-time data insights.

One of the key features of the SYSPRO ERP system is its ability to seamlessly integrate with various business processes, ensuring a unified and coherent workflow. This integration extends to the Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI), allowing businesses to leverage these technologies for automated decisionmaking and enhanced production processes.

Alongside its ERP system, SYSPRO is also showcasing its Manufacturing Operations Management (MOM) platform. Demonstrating SYSPRO's commitment to providing end-to-end manufacturing solutions, SYSPRO MOM is designed to optimise production processes, improve product quality and enhance operational visibility. The platform includes features such as realtime production monitoring, quality management and advanced scheduling. These features enable manufacturers to gain greater control over their production processes, reduce downtime and

ensure consistent product quality. The MOM platform integrates seamlessly with SYSPRO's ERP system, providing a holistic view of manufacturing operations.

A highlight of SYSPRO's showcase is its embedded analytics capabilities. In today's data-driven world, the ability to quickly analyse and act on data is crucial.

SYSPRO's ERP system comes equipped with powerful analytics tools that provide actionable insights into every aspect of the business. These analytics tools enable manufacturers to monitor key performance indicators (KPIs), identify trends, and make datadriven decisions. From inventory levels to financial performance, SYSPRO's analytics provide a comprehensive view of the business, enabling better strategy formulation and execution.

Inventory optimisation is another focal point of SYSPRO's presentation at AMW 2024. The challenges of inventory management, particularly in a fluctuating market, demand sophisticated solutions like SYSPRO’s. Its inventory optimisation tools are designed to help businesses maintain optimal inventory levels, reduce carrying costs and ensure timely fulfillment of customer orders. The system employs advanced algorithms and machine learning techniques to forecast demand accurately, manage replenishment and optimise stock levels. This not only improves inventory efficiency but also enhances overall customer satisfaction by ensuring product availability.

SYSPRO's vision for the future of manufacturing entails integrating ERP and MOM platforms with advanced analytics and inventory optimisation. SYSPRO is leading the way in creating intelligent, efficient and responsive manufacturing systems. As manufacturers increasingly look towards digital transformation to remain competitive, SYSPRO's solutions can transform their manufacturing operations, paving the way for increased efficiency, reduced costs and enhanced decision-making capabilities.

SYSPRO Australasia

Stand RA530 au.syspro.com

Manufacturing Industry Skills Alliance

The Manufacturing Industry Skills Alliance is the Jobs and Skills Council for the manufacturing sector.

The Jobs and Skills Council is an alliance of key manufacturing industry employers, unions and government giving industry a voice into the skills system and finding solutions to workforce challenges.

Collaboration and engagement

As the Jobs and Skills Council for Manufacturing, we focus on workforce needs and skills development with a strong emphasis on building partnerships between industry and the vocational education and training sector. Our goal is to ensure industry has the skilled workforce that it needs to grow and prepare for the workforce opportunities that emerging industries and advances in technology will bring. We need to understand, from those on the ground, the workforce challenges faced by industry. We want to know the gaps that exist in matching qualifications and training to job roles so we can develop solutions to close them.

We would welcome a discussion with you.

We’re keen to engage with as many stakeholders as possible, from all corners of the manufacturing sector. We not only want to gain

insights and data to help inform our 2024 Workforce Plan, but we want to ensure the skills taught today match the manufacturing industry of tomorrow. Come visit us at Australian Manufacturing Week (stand MP596) to find out more about our work and the industries we support. Let us know your insights, ideas and how we can work together to unlock Australia’s manufacturing capabilities. Chief Executive Officer, Sharon Robertson, will also share her insights on addressing the challenges of the changing manufacturing workforce on the Future Solutions Stage on Thursday 18 April from 12.00pm.

If you can't make it to our stand, feel free to reach out to us: hello@manufacturingalliance.org.au or visit our website manufacturingalliance.org.au.

Manufacturing Industry Skills Alliance Stand MP596

manufacturingalliance.org.au

Armadillo Group

Redefining hydraulics with precision and passion.

In 2005, a family-owned venture took its first steps in Western Australia with a goal to redefine the landscape of machinery maintenance. Armadillo Group, started by Alistair and David Richardson, embarked on a journey to offer superior lubrication solutions to their customers. Little did they know, their path would soon evolve into a pursuit of excellence in the world of hydraulics.

Armadillo Group initially specialised in importing and wholesaling lubricants and lubrication equipment, quickly gaining recognition for their commitment to simplifying maintenance.

A customer’s suggestion in 2007 marked a turning point as Armadillo Group ventured into hydraulics alongside its lubricants division, driven by the same ethos of exceptional customer service.

Fast forward over a decade to 2019, a strategic shift saw the company selling its lubricants division, directing its focus solely on hydraulics for OEMs. Armadillo Group’s ethos, “Fits right the first time, every time,” reflects their dedication to providing complete hydraulic hose kits, tailored to each machine, and delivered with precision.

In 2023, a rebranding to ‘Armadillo’ signified not just a name change but a renewed commitment to making hydraulics easy. The new logo, symbolising a tough yet flexible Armadillo with a precision hex at its core, encapsulates this mission perfectly. Today, Armadillo stands on the brink of firmly establishing itself as Australia's most dependable hydraulics company.

Sevaan Group

This year at AMW2024, Armadillo is proud to present their Prebuilt hydraulic kit solutions that their dedicated customers have come to love. Prebuilt Kits embodies their commitment to quality and precision, designed to meet the diverse needs of industries like earth moving, mining, agriculture, and more.

But their offerings at AMW2024 go beyond their Prebuilt kits. They understand the value of expert advice and personalised solutions, which is why they will be providing one-on-one consultations at their stand, offering attendees the opportunity to ask questions and discuss their specific hydraulic needs with Armadillos seasoned experts.

“In an industry where reliability and precision are paramount, Armadillo stands out as a beacon of quality and trustworthiness. We are not just a supplier; we are a partner in your hydraulic journey, committed to providing solutions that fit right the first time, every time.”-Alistair Richardson

Join us at AMW2024 to experience firsthand the Armadillo difference. Discover how their values, products, and services can empower your business and contribute to a more efficient, reliable, and sustainable future in hydraulics.

Armadillo Group Stand MS364 armadillogroup.com.au

Sevaan Group showcases parts manufacturing capability and unveil new additive manufacturing services at AMW2024.

Sevaan Group, and its subsidiary, Sevaan Manufacturing – a leading parts contract manufacturer – will be showcasing their extensive, high-quality metal parts manufacturing capability as well as unveiling their new additive manufacturing services at this years Australian Manufacturing Week (AMW) show in Sydney at Stand MP680.

The company will showcase their unique integrated capability and end-to-end workflow from design, prototyping and testing through to the production and finishing of metal parts for small runs and at scale. Sevaan’s portfolio includes sheet metal parts manufacturing and assembly, CNC parts machining and an extensive range of surface treatment and finishing services. Visitors to the show will be able to see an assortment of precisely manufactured metal parts on display. Sevaan will also unveil its new additive manufacturing services at AMW. The inclusion of additive manufacturing into their mix will allow Sevaan to deliver parts in polymer and composite materials.

To demonstrate their expertise, Sevaan will be using their scanning system to produce solid works live at the show, while their Markforged X7 3D industrial printer will demonstrate how additive manufacturing can reproduce even the most complex prototypes in various materials.

Additive manufacturing often affords customers faster time-tomarket capability, lower finished part costs and simplified supply chains. Sevaan’s additive manufacturing offering includes parts inventory auditing to identify parts suitable for 3D printing, reverse engineering if required, parts design, prototyping and testing, and production.

Sevaan’s OEM customers come from various industry sectors including defence, mining, food and beverage, transport and electronics.

Sevaan Group Stand MP680

SevaanGroup.com.au

Robotic Automation

Coming to AMW2024 with decades of robotic welding experience.

Robotic Automation (RA) is looking forward to again being an integral part of Australian Manufacturing Week and will showcase the very latest in robotic manufacturing technology.

While most people think of automation and robotics in manufacturing as a recent arrival, RA has been delivering these solutions for 35 years to manufacturers across ANZ.

One of RA’s specialities is its welding division, which has long seen its MOTOMAN robotic welders utilised in numerous manufacturing applications. MOTOMAN stands as one of the industrial robotics industry's largest manufacturers, boasting a remarkable track record of over 540,000 robots installed worldwide since 1977. This translates into maximum reliability, extended operational longevity, minimized downtime, reduced maintenance expenses, increased profitability, and unparalleled peace of mind.

Several MOTOMAN Cobots will be on demonstration including one with an interactive vision system and another heavy duty welding variant. Cobots are ideal for small, and mid-sized companies face hurdles in robot implementation due to safety requirements necessitating separate working areas. Yaskawa’s human collaborative MOTOMAN robot (HC Series) offers an affordable, versatile, and user-friendly solution.

The Weld4Me Cobot package is an easy-to-use, Cobot-based MIG or MAG welding station. It offers high performance for small welding shops with small batch sizes and high variant diversity. The Cobot combines the strength and accuracy of the industrial robot with the safety features necessary for human-robot collaboration. The IP67 protection class provides superior capabilities for applications in rough welding environments.

Due to direct teaching and customised welding software, operating and programming the Weld4Me Cobot is easy to learn for welding personnel, even without prior robotics knowledge. RA also offer self-contained Welding Cells for a flexible, space saving and cost-effective solution. Easy to install, operate and relocate, each ArcWorld cell is prepared for TIG, MIG or MAG welding, depending on requirements. The positioner variants of different types and sizes ensure high work piece flexibility and operator safety.

Check out RA’s Offline Programming Software to automatically generate robotic welding programs directly from CAD information. This easy-to-use desktop application makes offline robot programming simple and has powerful tools to ensure you get highquality welding results with minimal programming effort.

The MotoSim® Simulation Software package similarly provides accurate 3D simulations of robot cells. This powerful simulation software can be used to optimise the whole system, reach modelling, and cycle time calculations. This enables highly accurate off-line programming of complex systems.

A working Laser Vision system will be on demonstration. The system enables the MOTOMAN robot to precisely find and track weld joints at high speeds and in real time, even while the parts are turning on a coordinated positioner resulting in precise optimised, highly accurate welds.

With so many years of robotic welding experience, Yaskawa provides the largest range of standard and customised work piece positioners with multiple simultaneously controlled axes, providing high speed and superb precision. This encompasses compatible Tracks and Gantries for all applications, setting RA apart as trusted advisors in system design without compromise.

Robotic Automation Stand RA330 ragroup.com.au

Roll with Böttcher Australia

Böttcher Australia Pty Ltd is Australia's leading supplier of rubber rollers.

We are a wholly-owned subsidiary of Felix Böttcher, Germany, which is a 299-year-old family-owned company. Today, we are recognised as the market leader in the development and supply of elastomer-coated rollers and sleeves for a range of industries including printing, packaging and industrial roller applications. We offer roller solutions for the metal, textile and timber industries as well as a range of other industrial applications.

BöttcherTec rollers and coatings deliver the dimensional stability and durability needed for the most demanding production environments. We also supply complete packaging solutions for offset, flexo and gravure printing, encompassing all stages of packaging production from raw material to finished package.

Your Satisfaction is our Goal

Extensive experience in elastomer processing, first-class products, cost-consciousness, continuous development and a highly motivated technical field sales force - these are the success factors that translate into significant competitive advantages for our customers. To maintain an effective market presence, our customers need more. We are fully committed to these objectives.

To find out more about the services we provide in Australia, please visit us on our stand at Australian Manufacturing Week or get in touch with us.

Böttcher Australia Stand MP675 bottchersystems.com.au

Pacific Automation

Discover how Pacific Automation strategic collaborations can transform your industrial processes and drive success.

AMW 2024 serves as a crucial event for the manufacturing industry, bringing together key players to discuss trends, innovations, and the future of Australian manufacturing.

This event is also a testament to Pacific Automation's dedication to supporting and growing the manufacturing sector with innovative automation solutions. At the AMW2024 show, Pacific Automation will be displaying a range of sensors from a number of high-end proven leaders in the industry.

Bernstein is globally recognised for its excellence in providing safety sensing and control products, and enclosures technology. The brand's commitment to quality and reliability makes it a preferred choice for industrial safety and protection solutions. At Pacific Automation, we harness Bernstein's expertise to offer robust solutions for our clients.

Kubler stands at the forefront of innovation in the fields of rotation measurement and energy transfer. Their encoder and slip ring products, known for precision and durability, are essential in various industrial applications. Pacific Automation integrates Kubler's advanced technologies to elevate operational efficiencies.

Sutton Tools

Rechner Sensors has carved a niche in the sensor technology market for extended reliability with the highest quality products. Pacific Automation leverages Rechner’s innovative solutions to enhance process automation across multiple industries.

“Participating at AMW 2024 aligns perfectly with our mission to expand our presence on the East Coast,” Peter Hudson, Regional Sales Manager at Pacific Automation for the East Coast. “These events are pivotal in showcasing our capabilities on premium automation components, products, and solutions. It’s an opportunity to connect with industry peers, understand market needs, and demonstrate how Pacific Automation can drive innovation and efficiency in the manufacturing sector.”

Pacific Automation’s presence at AMW 2024 underscores our commitment to the Australian industrial automation sector. Join us at AMW2024 to explore how our solutions can transform your manufacturing processes and drive your business forward.

Pacific Automation Stand RA420 pacificautomation.com.au

Make sure to visit Sutton Tools at Australian Manufacturing Week 2024.

Sutton Tools, the Australian family business renowned for its highquality precision cutting tools, will be back at Australia’s premier advanced manufacturing and machine tool exhibition this year showcasing their range of high-performance tooling for a wide range of specialised industrial applications, focusing on both the Australian made content and the best we have to offer from our international agencies.

Sutton Tools team of local and international experts will be on hand to walk visitors through their range of high-performance tools, their diverse offering to the CNC machining industry, and their customer service and technical support.

The exhibit will feature a range of Sutton Tools offerings, plus agency products from Walter Tools, SupplyPro, Cimco, and the Hoffmann Group, just four of the many agencies Sutton Tools now represents.

Sutton Tools

A selection of Australian made solid carbide milling cutters and solid carbide drills up to 30x diameter with internal coolant in addition to Australian made tapping solutions in all size and style variations. Sutton Tools can provide a local and secure supply chain solutions for all your tooling needs.

Walter Tools

With around 45,000 standard tools for turning, milling, holemaking and threading, Walter offers you an extensive range of high-quality precision tools from the Walter, Walter Titex and Walter Prototyp brands. The Walter brand comprises carbide indexable inserts and PCD tooling systems for milling, turning, grooving and holemaking, of which a selection will be on display.

SupplyPro

A 10-drawer SupplyPro inventory management system called SMART drawer will be on display. Gain a better understanding of the benefits of inventory management through this affordable and flexible system that can be adapted and expanded to suit any working environment.

Hoffmann Group

Discover our product highlights of both GARANT and HOLEX in the ranges of machining, clamping, measuring, grinding, workstations and storage or personal protective and safety equipment. A selection of tool holding, work holding, and tool storage products including Zero Clamp will be on display.

CIMCO

Sutton Tools is proud to be displaying and demonstrating software solutions from CIMCO. MDC-Max enables you to collect and analyse data from machines and operators to get real-time and historic insights into your shop floor's productivity, performance and quality.Our focus is on machine data collection, CNCcommunication, document management with a special focus towards demonstrating the world's leading NC-editor.

Cimco also provides CAD/CAM solutions and consulting for 2½-, 3- and 5-axis CNC-programming for manufacturing companies worldwide.

Sutton Tools

Stand MP575

suttonhps.com

Elevating Precision

Hi-Tech Metrology unveils cutting-edge technologies at AMW2024.

As the Australian manufacturing industry continues its relentless pursuit of excellence and innovation, Hi-Tech Metrology stands poised to leave an indelible mark at the AMW2024. Renowned for its commitment to precision and technological prowess, HiTech Metrology will showcase an impressive lineup of advanced metrology solutions, including the Creaform HandySCAN 3D scanners, the Micro-Vu optical CMM, the Hexagon Absolute Arm, and the Leica ATS600 laser tracker.

At the heart of Hi-Tech Metrology's exhibit is the Creaform HandySCAN BLACK|Elite 3D scanner, a testament to the company's dedication to pushing the boundaries of scanning technology. This handheld, high-precision scanner is revered for its exceptional accuracy, speed, and portability. Manufacturers attending the expo will witness firsthand how the HandySCAN BLACK|Elite seamlessly integrates into various workflows, providing unparalleled capabilities for quality control, reverse engineering, and product development. Breaking new ground in the realm of large-part metrology is Creaform’s latest innovation – the HandySCAN MAX 3D scanner. Engineered to meet the demands of industries dealing with substantial components, this cutting-edge scanner boasts enhanced performance, increased scanning speed, and an expanded field of view.

The Micro-Vu Vertex optical CMM takes centre stage as both a noncontact and contact measurement solution that sets new standards in precision measurement. With its ability to capture intricate details with utmost accuracy, the Micro-Vu Vertex addresses the growing

demand for reliable and efficient quality assurance processes. Attendees at the expo will have the opportunity to witness the Micro-Vu in action, gaining insights into how this optical CMM enhances manufacturing workflows.

Adding another layer to Hi-Tech Metrology's arsenal is the IP54class Hexagon Absolute 80-series Arm with AS1 laser scanner, designed for flexibility and ease of use. This advanced tool provides manufacturers with the means to conduct accurate measurements directly on the shop floor. Coupled with world-leading PolyWorks point-cloud software, users can streamline inspection processes to improve overall efficiency in production.

With a commitment to delivering precise measurement solutions in challenging environments, Hi-Tech Metrology will also showcase the Leica ATS600 laser tracker. This state-of-the-art tracker boasts unmatched accuracy and range, making it an indispensable tool for railway, mining and ship-building industries given its robust, longrange laser scanning capability.

Beyond the impressive lineup of products, Hi-Tech Metrology will engage expo attendees with expert-led demonstrations to offer professionals and enthusiasts alike a deeper understanding of how these technologies seamlessly integrate into manufacturing processes, optimising efficiency and ensuring unparalleled precision.

Hi-Tech Metrology Stand MT510 hitechmetrology.com.au

PPC Moulding Services

See the only 3D Liquid Silicone Rubber Printer using injection mouldable grade material in Australia.

At this years show in Sydney we will exhibiting the only 3D Liquid Silicone Rubber Printer using injection mouldable grade material in Australia. The printer will be running producing LSR samples showcasing some of the shapes that can produced. It is the perfect solution for anyone looking to produce LSR production parts as this machine produce samples in LSR without the expensive cost of tooling and the saving of time.

We will also be displaying a complex LSR overmoulding tool with the automated end of arm tooling. This display showcases the

technical ability that PPC Moulding Services can offer the industry in part design, tooling design and project management right through to manufacture. We will also have on display the many parts that we have produced from the medical sector right through to the commercial sector of the manufacturing industry.

We look forward to seeing you at our stand.

PPC Moulding Services Stand PT 658 mouldingservices.com.au

Camplex at AMW2024

NCG CAM 19 and the new Mobile Smart Factory from METROM.

Fred Carlstrom will be at AMW2024 to show the latest version of NCG CAM software. The NCG CAM software has the same origin as Machining Strategist in the UK where it was developed and marketed by NC Graphics. NCG CAM is developed and marketed by NCG CAM Solutions Ltd just outside Cambridge in the UK. In Australia NCG CAM is sold and supported by Camplex Pty Ltd.

“Many improvements and new features have been introduced into NCG CAM, like roughing and finishing strategies, rest milling and tool simulation,” explained Carlstrom. “NCG CAM 19.0 introduced 2-axis turning as part of its 3-axis milling and will soon support Turn/ Mill machines that are becoming very popular in machine shops.”

NCG CAM can also program 4 & 5-axis machines with full machine simulation included with the post-processor. Apart from standard 5-axis milling operations you can automatically convert 3-axis toolpaths with full gauge protection.

NCG CAM 19 is noted for its robust capabilities. Whether you are a seasoned CAM specialist or a beginner to the sector, this software delivers a range of functionality to satisfy your most experienced CAM programmer.

NCG CAM has an intuitive interface and is very easy-to-use. NCG CAM excels in surface finish and processing speed even on large parts. All toolpaths are fully gauge protected against tool and tool holder.

METROM

The Mobile Smart Factory is a portable CNC machine solution from Bionic Production that is equipped with a hybrid machine from METROM. This machine container is able to 3D print and mill components everywhere, making it perfect for mobile manufacturing. This CNC Factory consist of two high cube 20-foot containers that have been refurbished and outfitted with the latest in 3D printing and CNC machining technology.

This P-Series CNC machine offers a unique combination of 3D printing and milling capabilities, allowing for the production of parts and components on site and in real-time. The WAAM module (Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing) makes this possible by combining a high build rate with a large build space, making it perfect for 3D printing on the go.

The P800 is perfect for the Mobile Smart Factory and mobile use. This is where the advantages of the P-Series CNC machines come into play: compactness, robustness and multi-functionality. This machine is basically a CNC machine that has been equipped with a welding torch that allows it to 3D print. The machine is able to produce metal parts by depositing metal wire into the desired shape. This process is known as WAAM or Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing. The printing and milling processes can be combined automatically in one machine. After printing the part can be milled on the same machine to create the desired shape or finish. This means that there is no need for a separate 3D printer and CNC machine, saving space and weight. The great effort of the CNC Machine is the 5-axis milling. This means that the machine can create any shape, no matter how complex. The spindle can be tilt up to 90 degrees. With the combination of a rotary table, the part can be machined from all sides in one setup.

These portable CNC machine solution is for many different applications and industries. The Mobile Smart Factory is ideal for manufacturers and contractors of all types, who need on-demand cnc machining and 3D printing capabilities with high flexibility.

The Mobile Smart Factory is the perfect portable cnc machine solution for mobile manufacturing. It is self-contained, flexible, and equipped with a hybrid machine from METROM, which offers a unique combination of 3D printing and milling capabilities. With the Mobile Smart Factory, manufacturers can enjoy real-time and onsite production, reducing logistics and transportation costs. In addition, the Mobile Smart Factory is able to produce parts and components from a variety of materials, including metals and polymers. This makes it perfect for on-demand production of spare parts, reducing downtime. This CNC machine solution show that the future of manufacturing is portable, on-demand, and 3D printed. The Mobile Smart Factory is at the forefront of this new era of manufacturing, and is poised to revolutionize the way that manufacturers do business. Come and see a model of the Mobile Smart Factory system METROM, and the new NCG CAM software at the Camplex stand at AMW2024.

Camplex Stand MT716

camplex.com.au

Novarc Technologies

The world’s first of its kind in pipe welding applications, the Spool Welding Robot, will be on demonstration at AMW.

Novarc Technologies Inc is a full-stack robotics company, specialising in the design and manufacturing of cobots and AIbased machine vision solutions for autonomous welding. Novarc will be bringing its Spool Welding Robot (SWR) - the world’s first of its kind in pipe welding applications, to Australian Manufacturing Week.

Visitors will be able to see first-hand how Novarc’s SWR increases productivity, delivering superior weld quality and improving welder ergonomics.

Novarc’s SWR helps fabricators needing to transition from manual welding to an automated solution, to significantly lower the cost of welding, while achieving superior weld quality. Being a ‘cobot’, Novarc’s SWR works alongside the human operator, allowing lower skilled welders to work collaboratively with welding robots in the fabrication shop. The result is welds with greater precision, accuracy and speed, and a never before achieved balance of quality and productivity.

From a safety perspective, Novarc’s AI-driven welding control technology also delivers the lowest airborne, energy consumption, and metal waste during the fabrication process. Novarc’s full stack customised automation solution significantly reduces the welding duration as well: minimising the active arc time means less airborne emissions (CO2/CO/O3/metal pollutants) to the air; and, less energy consumption from external power sources.

Novarc’s automation system also reduces human exposure to all welding hazards: dangerous welding fumes such as manganese, hexavalent and chromium. This is achieved by allowing the welding operator to work several metres away from the welding arc as they don’t have to have their head physically in the direct welding fumes. Conventional manual welders work closer to the arc, and fumes

Execution Factor

Dual Torch Spool Welding Robot, and is the first company in Western Australia to introduce a robot into their workshop.

enter their breathing zones. Novarc’s welding technology allows the operators to work remotely from the arc, and with the use of proper ventilation, most fumes can be eliminated.

This is especially key as Safe Work Australia recently announced that Work Health and Safety Ministers have agreed to an immediate reduction in the workplace exposure standard for welding fumes, from an eight-hour time weighted average (TWA) of five mg/m3 to one mg/m3. As the exposure standard for welding fumes has been reduced, all necessary controls must be implemented to meet this higher standard and with Novarc’s solution, these new exposure standards will be easily achievable.

Novarc Technologies Stand WA740 novarctech.com

Production Scheduling Reinvented. Ditch your Scheduling. Keep your ERP.

Despite all of the time, money, and effort invested into ERP systems many manufacturers are still using Excel and other manual methods to manage production. It’s not that the software is bad, the software does exactly what it was designed to do – use a finite capacity scheduling algorithm to schedule production. It is understandable that if you are giving your ERP system inaccurate information, it will produce bad outcomes. So the natural tendency is to focus on improving the detail and accuracy of the information. Chaos Theory, often described as the ‘butterfly effect’ tells us that in complex systems, small changes can lead to vastly different outcomes. To say it another way, there are many variables and everything cannot be precisely known.

Whatever priorities were generated by your ERP system are now obsolete. So we then go outside of our scheduling systems to manage the complexity of production and to simply determine what we should work on. The rest of your ERP system probably works quite well. So keep it! Too much time, effort and money is required to replace it. PFM quickly and easily replaces the scheduling and execution side of your ERP system. This is the part that helps manufacturers get work through their organisation faster, reduces WIP, improves On-Time Delivery, and allows you to make promises your customers believe so they keep on coming back.

To summarise the traditional approach, we Plan by running a capacity loading algorithm (Scheduling Program), which generates priories for the shop floor typically in the form of a Work To List. These are then sent out to production to Execute. Often production looks at these priorities generated by the computer program and comments, “They look a lot different to what we talked about in our production meeting”. Furthermore, change in production is common. Customers are always changing the due date, tooling breaks, or material does not show up when expected.

We love manufacturing and believe manufacturing fuels sustainable economic growth that we all benefit from. We want to get this message, that is a better way to manage production out there to create viable and financially sustainable companies. This is why we sponsored the manufacturing solutions zone. Visit us at our stand MS496, and we can talk about how we can help you overcome your challenges.

The Execution Factor

Stand MS496

theexecutionfactor.io

WPF (Western Australia) has installed a SWR

Responsibly sourced Lower-carbon Aluminium your projects.

Choosing lower-carbon aluminium in your next project can significantly reduce the embodied energy of your aluminium products. LocAl® Green (8kg CO2e/1kg AL*) and LocAl® SuperGreen (4kg CO2e/1kg AL*) are the responsible choice for a locally extruded, lower-carbon option in your next project.

Techni Waterjet

Founded in 1989, Techni Waterjet has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's achievable with waterjet technology. One of the most transformative aspects of Techni Waterjet's journey has been their electric servo pump technology innovation.

Techni Waterjet’s groundbreaking developments have ushered in a new era of waterjet cutting, with a focus on sustainability and efficiency. By introducing electric servo pumps, Techni Waterjet has not only reduced energy consumption but has also made waterjet cutting more ecofriendly, aligning with the global movement toward 'green' technology. This year marks a significant milestone for us as we proudly celebrate 35 years of manufacturing excellence. To commemorate this achievement, we are excited to offer a special promotion – a turn-key system at our best price ever, exemplifying our commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction."

Extraordinary OEM installation, service, and support worldwide

While Techni Waterjet's technological innovations have garnered international acclaim, it's their exceptional OEM installation, service, and support that sets them apart in the global waterjet market. An unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction extends far beyond the manufacturing stage. With a deep understanding of the unique challenges and demands of the Global Waterjet market, Techni Waterjet offers exceptional installation services, ensuring cutting-edge technology is seamlessly integrated into the clients workflow. In line with their tradition of innovation, Techni Waterjet has unveiled another game-changing solution for waterjet

Invenio

Software, Talent, Services - Your Complete Business Partner.

Who are we?

Established in 1986, Invenio is here for the long-term to build lasting, sustainable partnerships. At Invenio, we forge lasting partnerships by seamlessly blending quality, care, and expertise, offering unparalleled software services enriched with top-tier talent to elevate your business to new heights. "We deliver the essential trifecta of software solutions, top-tier talent and services through expert know-how, tailored to meet your company's unique needs." Our mission is to empower businesses through innovative Software, Talent, and Services, fostering a collaborative journey toward achieving your goals. We commit to delivering cutting-edge solutions that seamlessly integrate technology and human expertise, ensuring that we not only meet but exceed your evolving needs. With a relentless focus on collaboration, quality, and continuous improvement, we stand by you as the trusted partner that propels your organization to new heights in the dynamic digital landscape. Together, let's shape the future of technology with unparalleled software, talent and services that inspire excellence – because your success is our success."

What we do:

Software

Invenio is a trusted, award-winning Dassault Systèmes Partner and we can help you with training and licensing for Dassault Systèmes software suites, such as 3DEXPERIENCE, CATIA, SOLIDWORKS,

management – the Tech-Connect mobile app. This fully renovated application allows users to monitor their waterjet systems directly from their smartphones. It's a step forward in perfecting lights-out operations, providing convenience, flexibility, and peace of mind. With Tech-Connect, you can oversee your waterjet system activities, receive notifications, and even pause or stop your machine. It's a powerful tool that provides remote access to real-time information on the activities, ensuring maximum efficiency and productivity.

Through integrated cameras on your machine, the Tech-Connect app provides you with “real time” viewing eyes on your waterjet system and cutting table. This means that, at any given moment, you can visually track the progress of your cutting job. It's like being in two places at once, granting you unprecedented control over your operations.

Tech-Connect doesn't just empower you during the cutting process; it's also your trusted companion in maintenance management. The app keeps you on top of scheduled services, ensuring that your system remains in peak condition and unwanted downtime is avoided. And in case of any unexpected issues, our support team is just one tap away, ready to assist you promptly.

Techni Waterjet Stand MT315 techniwaterjet.com

ENOVIA, and others, which can support your individual business needs.

Services

Invenio is a holistic provider for Engineering and IT services. We are proud of our handpicked, in-house team of application specialists, project managers, programmers and IT architects specialised in Dassault Systèmes solutions who enable us to find agile solutions to support your unique requirements.

Talent

The persistent demand for technical expertise is expected to continue affecting business operations in the near future. For more than 35 years Invenio’s specialised recruitment team have accumulated an extensive network of highly qualified candidates both from ANZ and from overseas.

We can offer a range of tailored options to suit your needs including:

• Permanent and temporary talent to increase your productivity.

• Contractor management to help you build a highly skilled, agile team.

• Sponsorship of skilled foreign workers to fill the underrepresented skills in Australia under the 482 TSS VISA.

• Graduate recruitment so you can attract the best and the brightest new talent on the market.

Invenio

Stand MS470 invenio.com.au

MinarcMig Auto 190

Kemppi to unveil impressive new products at Australian Manufacturing Week 2024.

Leading international welding equipment manufacturer, Kemppi, will be showcasing a range of innovative welding machines and software solutions as well as safety gear at the upcoming Australian Manufacturing Week show in Sydney at Stand WA822.

Among the new Kemppi line up are the recently released MinarcMig Auto 190 and 220 MIG/MAG welding machines. The two new models expand Kemppi’s popular portable range to give welders greater choice. Compact and lightweight, the MinarcMig Auto models deliver complete portability so that welders can easily and safely move around worksites to weld where required.

The machines are also powerful performers and provide excellent welding quality thanks to the best-level welding power from a 1-phase 230V power supply. An intuitive and user-friendly interface makes operating the machine easy for both experienced welders and beginners. To simplify the welding process and improve welding quality, the machines feature an AUTO setting by material type and plate thickness. Designed for use with long power extension cables (up to 100m) the new Auto 190 and 220 models include a 3-meter welding torch with an ergonomic gun handle, cable set and carrying strap. Also on display, will be the new Minarc T 223 ACDC power source, and the sought-after Master M range including the Master M 205 and 323. The Master M series enhances industrial welding productivity and quality. Compact and powerful, the Master M comes with Weld Assist as standard, integrated welding programs, better arc performance for greater productivity, integrated and selfcharging LED work lights for worksite safety, automatic calibration, memory channels and optional digital connectivity.

Kemppi will also be showcasing its safety range which includes both welding gloves and helmets. Kemppi’s collection of welding gloves are made using high-quality materials, designed for maximum dexterity, deliver excellent functionality and performance and are available in a wide range of sizes.

Visitors to the show will also be able to inspect Kemppi’s extensive range of welding helmets. Included in the display are the new Beta e hard hat which quickly and easily converts into a welding helmet. The special edition Beta Art Forest and Nordic helmets will also be on show, as are the lightweight Zeta helmets, including the new Zeta Fresh Air helmet systems for welding and grinding. These feature automated LED work lights, bright and wide vision, bestin-class auto darkening lens, TH3 level breathing protection, and a narrow and lightweight design.

Other products visitors will be able to see at the Kemppi stand include the company’s quality range of torches.

Kemppi is the design leader of the arc welding industry and supplies advanced products, digital solutions and services for professionals from industrial welding companies to single contractors. The usability and reliability of our products is our guiding principle. Kemppi employs almost 800 professionals in 17 countries and is headquartered in Lahti, Finland.

Kemppi Stand WA822 kemppi.com

BAC Systems industrial benches and cabinets

BAC Systems is an Australian manufacturer of industrial workshop furniture and equipment creating efficient workplaces.

BAC Systems will be exhibiting at Australian Manufacturing Technology and can be found in stand MP678. A visit to the stand will show you the well-known favourites: BAC Drawer Storage Cabinets and BAC Modular Workbenches. Though these items are at the BAC Systems Stand every year, they prove to be what the visitors wish to see as these items inspire in them great ideas for positive change in their workshops and parts stores which we help them to act upon after the end of the expo.

BAC Drawer Storage Modules are built from heavy-gauge, highstrength steels and very large bearings. A BAC Drawer is always smooth to run, even with 100kg in the drawer. BAC’s patented drawers with dividers have the ability to compress most inventories of small to medium parts to less than a third of their original storage footprint and give you control of the system, order and cleanliness of these parts. They are easy to access, to label, and they integrate with all multi-dimensional inventory management systems quite readily. BAC Modular Workbenches are strong and reliable, offering you many different combinations of benchtop, storage and accessory options. You can configure a BAC Workbench to suit your available space, your inventory, and the way in which you wish to work. When any of these variables change, then they are easy to adjust to suit the new parameters. This readiness to change, combined with the life span of many decades, means that a BAC Workbench will never be outdated or superseded in your workshop.

Come and visit us at stand MP678 to pick up some catalogues, check out the products on display, and to arrange a complimentary site survey to your site anywhere across Australia or New Zealand.

BAC Systems

Stand MP678

bacsystems.com.au

WORLD-CLASS INNOVATION for Fab Operations Around the Globe.

SWI is an international leader in sheet metal machinery whose customers include the world’s largest roofing companies as well as hundreds of family-owned enterprises. With thousands of machines in operation around the world today (and still going strong), SWI has established a solid reputation as the "go to" provider for e cient and reliable sheet metal technology.

Our machines feature robot welded structures and are made using our autonomous CNC machining centres which reduces the cost of manufacture and increases quality and consistency. We complete all software development and mechanical designs in house at our 50,000m2 state-of-the-art facility in Warrnambool, focusing on e cient operability and low overheads. We use only the best electrical and hydraulic hardware, so you can rest assured that the quality of our machines is second to none. Plus, we sell directly to our customers, so there’s no middleman involved.

As a testament to our in-demand technology and impeccable customer service, our customers have forward orders for 282 machines worldwide at the time of this publication. SWI’s serviceability, support, and economical operation are key reasons our customers keep coming back.

Top-Rated Servicing & Serviceability

With more than 2,000 machines in operation worldwide today and only 5 full-time service technicians, it’s safe to say that SWI machines have a reputation for dependability. When the time does come for servicing, our knowledgeable technicians are ready to tackle any issue and get you back up and running in no time. We consistently maintain a wide inventory of parts for late model machines as well as a huge stock of legacy parts for older machines, so you can have peace of mind knowing we’ll most likely have what you need when you need it.

Request a Quote Today!

If you’re ready to take your fab operation to a whole new level, request a quote by calling us at +61 3 55645333 or visit swimachinery.com today.

Coil Farm Technology – Fast Automatic Coil Changes – SWI CoilXpress

SWI coil farms have amassed over 300,000 hours of service, collectively performed nearly 1 million coil changes, and are still in use today with their original owners. Featuring the fastest preparation time of any coil farm currently on the market, our coil farms range in size from 6 to over 40 coils, depending on your operation’s needs. As expensive as coil steel is, minimizing the potential for any damage by eliminating the need for moving coils manually is crucial.

SWI Marxman Slitters - the Benchmark for All Slitting & Blanking Operations.

Our Marxman slitters provide the world’s most advanced sheet metal blanking systems in the industry. With approximately 2,000 Marxman slitters in operation worldwide today, our reputation for serviceability is so renowned that even some of our competitors have recommended us.

SWI Duplex Folders – Built for Speed & Durability

Our Duplex folders are faster, smoother, and smarter than traditional folders. Yet, they are still surprisingly easy to operate. Featuring faster part cycle times than other machines, the Duplex eliminates ine ciencies seen in other up and down folders through intelligent design and incredible ease of use. And they keep getting better at SWI. We have exciting loading and unloading development and renewed European and CE safety certification all underway. The Duplex folder also features optional condition monitoring programs to further protect your machines.

Duplex Dual Beam Folder / Slitter

from coil

FARM to FABricated

Uncoiler & Recoiler

CoilXpress CX5 Auto Decoiling & Storage System

Marxman Plus & Marxman Pro

Koenig brings the king

Koenig Machinery and its manufacturing partners Gweike, ADH and Xtool.

Koenig brings you a range of quality and affordable fibre cutting machines, for metal sheet and tube cutting, press brakes, as well as metal fibre marking, combination metal/ non-metal and standard non-metal CO2 laser cutting machines.

Our LF60M is our 3-axis tube cutting machine, with optional 5-axis upgrade, making tube cutting faster, simpler and more affordable that ever before. Streamline your production, and get fast and accurate results with a Gweike tube cutting fibre laser. Don’t waste time drilling and cutting by hand, no more wasted stock! Come and see it cutting in action at our stand today! Ask about the LF60MA with automatic loading and LF60MS with its three chuck system. The LF3015GA Pro fibre cutting machine is the king of the show. With a fully enclosed 3.0x1.5m cutting bed and rear exchange table, you can easily unload/reload stock while the machine continues to cut, saving on overall production time. With a builtin airconditioned electrical cabinet this compact unit will slot in to your factory in any Australian climate. Talk to Koenig about their different power options and models from 0-30kW and the highquality BOCI laser head range, monitoring lenses heat and quality surface tracking to reduce wasted time, material and stress!

The next showstopper is the LF1313 Fiber-CO2 combination machine cutting metal and non-metals up to 30mm acrylic, 25mm woods and metals up to 20mm. Don’t forget to have a look at our popular Precision CNC press break with 6+1 axis and Delem 69T controller, import 2D or 3D files with the smart Delem controller, calculating the bend force and step-by step bend process with 3D preview you will bend with precision and ease.

COBOT Welder

COBOT to reveal their Welder and Palletiser at the show.

COBOT Pty Ltd are announcing the release of their latest product - the COBOT Welder, designed and made in Australia and utilising an ABB Collaborative robot. COBOT will also have their game changing COBOT Palletiser on display. Made in Australia and utilising a JAKA or Fanuc COBOT, the mobile COBOT Palletiser offers many benefits for local manufacturers. Designed and built in Australia by local engineers, it is delivered and installed as a complete turnkey system.

Andrew Quayle, Founder and Managing Director of COBOT said, “the COBOT Palletiser is safe, reliable, has a tiny footprint and is on wheels. It’s an absolute game-changer for local manufacturers. Our standard COBOT Palletiser starts at A$149,600 plus GST installed turnkey. Our company has grown strategically over the past few years and now has ten engineers here in Melbourne. We are fixated on engineering the best possible product at the best price so that our customers can benefit from this new technology. The technology is changing fast and we are not here just to watch it happen, we are really embracing it.”

The prevalence of staff shortages, rising labour costs and human error within the manufacturing sector, has driven COBOT Pty Ltd to develop a robust and reliable solution. COBOT Palletising is a proven turnkey system from a local team you can trust. The

Around the corner you’ll find the classic range of Koenig’s precision servo driven CO2 laser machines, for all of your industrial nonmetal cutting needs. Whether you are looking to make switch plates, labels, signage or packaging the Koenig Laser range will not disappoint. Take a look at the Fibre marking range. You will be surprised by the various marking applications you already have for these little gems. Check out the new Xtool range at run-out prices with CO2 and diode options for those on a budget - In stock ready to take home with you!

Chat to the friendly Koenig Machinery Staff and Engineers, here to assist you with demonstrations and any questions you may have.

Koenig Machinery Stand MT305, MT400 koenigmachinery.com.au

standard COBOT Palletiser can lift up to 15kg boxes, although with the Fanuc 25 the capacity goes up to 25Kg boxes. It can be installed with one or two pallet bays. The system comes with an infeed gravity conveyor and can include optional gating for multiple picks of boxes. The pallets can be Chep or Loscam and even export pallets work well. Boxes, bags and even open top boxes can be handled.

All of the installations are turnkey and supported with Remote Monitoring. “Our guys watch the palletiser on a 4K camera installed with the system, and make any modifications or upgrades over time, via 4G or Wifi access. This is all included with the price.”

Quayle goes on to explain that the “COBOT Palletiser is flexible and on wheels, and can be moved easily, making it a versatile solution that can be easily positioned and connected to compressed air and 240V power. It doesn't require any safety fencing, subject to risk assessment by our team.” We welcome you to our new factory in Carrum Downs Victoria to have a look at at our standard COBOT palletiser range. If you want to trial our system then please bring some sample boxes. Its that easy.

COBOT Pty Ltd

Stand RA542 cobot.net.au

SWI Machinery

Australia’s SWI Machinery is a world leader in sheet metal slitting and folding technology, specifically for roofing manufacturers and sheet metal fabricators.

In Australia, USA and New Zealand, corporations using SWI equipment include Kingspan, Stratco, Stramit, Metroll, Metalcraft, Metal Sales Manufacturing, Central States Manufacturing, Lysaght, Roofing Industries, Dimond, Steeline, Freeman Roofing….as well as hundreds of other roofing leaders. All SWI equipment is 100% manufactured by SWI at our hi-tech facility in Warrnambool. In the Americas, SWI equipment is sold and serviced by our staff in Atlanta, Georgia. Approximately 50% of all SWI equipment goes to customers in the USA, with many of our American customers having multiple machines around the country.

SWI’s line up of equipment includes DUPLEX Long Folders, SIMPLEX Long Folders, ‘Marxman’ slitters as well as integrated machinery software taking orders directly from the office to the production floor. The highly automated MARXMAN PRO slitter is the only slitting and blanking line in the world that includes the convenience of intermediate part-cut technology as well as automatic labelling, coil consumption tracking and barcode linking to downstream folders. These can all be linked directly to your ERP system. Production statistics show the MARXMAN PRO consistently produces up to 200 parts per hour of operation. All cut to size, labelled and ready for folding.

The MARXMAN PLUS has proven an exciting addition to the SWI line up. Released in 2016, it has already become the most popular selling Marxman model. All SWI’s Marxman slitting lines are designed to allow a full set of slitter blades to be changed in less than 20 minutes.

The passive safety systems incorporated into the SWI DUPLEX Folder prompt the machine to automatically slow from its high speed when operators approach the danger zone, and as the workpiece

becomes larger. While other makes are becoming faster and more dangerous, SWI have developed a sustainable, safe compromise that allows high speed operation with first class operator protection. The SWI Duplex is regarded as a leading performer in the USA for safety, ease of use and reliable operation. Video analysis suggests that the SWI Duplex has the fastest part cycle time of any folder available today. Some of our USA customers have over 20 Duplex folders.

Throughout 2024 we have well advanced development projects involving automated loading and unloading functionality for the Duplex folders. Come and talk to us at AMW about the exciting possibilities of the SWI automated system. Our aim is not to compete with other automated equipment, but provide something altogether more practical and efficient in real world applications. Another exciting development throughout 2023 has been the new generation SWI CoilXpress coil farm. Building on the success of the previous SWI coil farms, the CoilXpress offers levels of ease of use, reliability and simplicity not seen in other makes. The absence of cumbersome and expensive coil mandrels means the SWI CoilXpress has the fastest coil prep time of any coil farm system. With quite a number of the new CoilXpress coil farms already in operation around Australia and the USA, the feedback from owners and operators alike has been extremely positive.

While we’ll have a large range of equipment on display, this year is more about catching up with old friends and perhaps making some new ones. So make time to visit SWI. You will be impressed.

SWI Machinery Stand MT970 swimachinery.com

Easy to use

• 2.4-inch colour graphic LCD with backlight

• Simple key layout

The Surftest SJ-210 can be operated easily using the keys on the front of the unit and under the sliding cover.

Highly functional

• Advanced data storage capabilities

• Optional memory card

• Password protection

• Multilingual support

• Stylus alarm

Extensive analysis and display features

• Complies with many industry standards

The Surftest SJ-210 complies with the following standards: JIS (JISB0601- 2001, JIS-B0601-1994, JIS B0601-1982), VDA, ISO-1997, and ANSI.

• Displays assessed profiles and graphical data

In addition to calculation results, the Surftest SJ-210 can display sectional calculation results and assessed profiles, load curves, and amplitude distribution curves. The

An alarm warns you when the cumulative measurement distance exceeds a preset limit.

White International

White International at Australian Manufacturing Week: Introducing the Revolutionary Stahlwille DAPTIQ System.

Join White International & Stahlwille at AMW2024 and be among the first to experience the revolutionary Stahlwille DAPTIQ system, a game-changer in bolting process reliability and efficiency.

Stahlwille: A legacy of safety and quality

The Stahlwille brand is synonymous with safety and quality. For over 160 years, this German manufacturer has produced premium tools trusted by leading industries like defence, aviation, aerospace, and automotive. Their commitment to exacting specifications ensures their tools meet the rigorous demands of safety-critical applications. Stahlwille tools also boast innovative safety features applicable to various machinery and vehicles, making them ideal for demanding environments.

Unveiling the future of bolting processes

We understand the critical role reliable and precise fastening plays in various industries, especially those demanding unwavering performance in high-pressure situations.

A Real-World Example: Rosenbauer's success story Rosenbauer, a leading manufacturer of fire trucks and emergency vehicles, faced challenges in ensuring the consistency and reliability of their bolting processes.

The DAPTIQ Solution: A winning combination

Stahlwille's DAPTIQ system addressed these challenges seamlessly. Here's how:

• Digitalisation: The system digitises the bolting process, guiding users through predefined sequences, minimising human error, and decreasing training time.

• Full Integration: The Manoskop 766 DAPTIQ torque wrench integrates seamlessly with existing production environments.

• Seamless User Experience: The system automatically sets the required torque for each joint, and the wrench provides trifold confirmation (LED light, display, and click) of successful tightening.

BusinessHub

Cloud manufacturing software for smarter operations.

You’re a manufacturer. You make things. Amazing things. But you also need to manage your money, customers, projects, and reports. And you need to do it fast, smart, and easy.

As your business grows, so does the complexity of your operations. MYOB Advanced streamlines high-value workflows for speed and accuracy. It brings together features and integrations for visibility across your whole business, whenever and wherever you need it.

That’s where MYOB Advanced Manufacturing comes in. It’s an industry specific cloud ERP system that gives you everything you need to run your business in one place. And it’s built in the Australian New Zealand region for Australian manufacturers.

No more manual work, no more guesswork, no more headaches. Just real-time insights and control over your entire operations.

Production management and material billing

Use manufacturing operations management software to capture total manufacturing costs, including material, labour, machine, tool, overhead, and outside processes. Plus, use bill of materials for both engineering and costed views of the entire product structure.

• Real-Time Documentation: Tightening results are reported and documented in real-time with timestamps and exact torque values, ensuring complete traceability.

• Low Installation Effort: The system integrates quickly and easily into existing environments, with minimal disruption and fast scaling capabilities.

• Reduced Administration: Digitisation eliminates the need for paper-based work instructions, saving time and resources.

Visit White International & Stahlwille at booth MT612 and witness the Stahlwille DAPTIQ system firsthand. Our team will be there to answer your questions, demonstrate its capabilities, and showcase how it can revolutionise your bolting processes.

Don't miss the chance to win! We will be giving away a limited edition Stahlwille 160 Year Anniversary Toolset to one lucky visitor.

Visit our booth for details!

White International Stand MT612 whiteint.com.au

Material requirements planning and product configuration

View all supply and demand. Create production and purchase orders directly from the planning screen. Create a new configured order by simply copying or modifying an existing configured order or quote.

Visit us at Stand MS460 in the Manufacturing Solutions Zone and find out why BusinessHub is the current MYOB Manufacturing Partner of the Year, and the MYOB Excellence in Customer Experience Award Winner.

Find out why BusinessHub is the MYOB Manufacturing Partner of the Year. Our team of professionals will be on hand to answer all your questions and discuss how it can be tailored to suit your specific needs.

Time Limited Offer: As an added incentive, visitors to Stand MS460 will be eligible for a time-limited special offer. Only available during the event.

BusinessHub

Stand MS460 businesshub.com.au

FICEP

FICEP VALIANT and KATANA Integration: A Symphony of Precision and Efficiency.

For the steel construction industry, automation and process efficiency are crucial to meet high-quality standards with rapid and certain responses. FICEP, a global leader in automatic steel processing, addresses these needs by offering the combined system featuring the Valiant drilling unit and the Katana band saw. The VALIANT drilling centre

VALIANT represents the latest evolution in Ficep's drill line range. VALIANT can position the beam and perform all programmed processes without the need for repositioning. The new extended sub-axis spindle positioning enables simultaneous drilling on all three surfaces even when the holes are not aligned. It can be equipped with three automatic 14-position tool changers, one for each spindle, which provide superior performance and a significant reduction in cycle times.

VALIANT automatic systems can be supplied 'stand-alone' or combined with the KATANA band saw system. KATANA has a closed loop feedback, making it one of the fastest in the market. KATANA can perform high quality cuts up to 60° mitered cuts in both directions. KATANA is integrated with an automatic unloading device with a magnet that allows the processed short pieces to be unloaded automatically. This is performed without the intervention of an operator. As such, workers no longer need to handle the steel members, which can be particularly dangerous given their size and weight.

By integrating VALIANT with KATANA and advanced automatic handling systems such as roller conveyors and cross transfer tables, FICEP not only amplifies productivity but also enhances safety for operators. Moreover, automation alleviates the industry's pressing challenge of skilled labor shortage by shifting employees away from strenuous tasks, thus enabling redeployment into higher value-added tasks. This dual benefit of increased efficiency and workforce optimization underscores FICEP's commitment to driving industry progress. Both the VALIANT and KATANA can be controlled by a single numerical control developed in-house

Aurarum

by FICEP: Pegaso. Pegaso guarantees better performance and a substantial reduction in cycle times. Pegaso is equipped with a powerful processor, expanded memory, up to 15 controlled axes and multiple communication protocols (Canbus, Profinet, Ethercat). It also comes with an innovative, easy-to-use Office technology central offline programming software

In the ever-evolving landscape of steel construction, FICEP's integration of VALIANT and KATANA emerges as a beacon of innovation and efficiency. By marrying precision with automation, FICEP not only redefines the benchmarks of productivity and quality but also paves the way for a safer, more sustainable future in steel construction. As industries navigate the complexities of modern production, FICEP remains steadfast in its commitment to delivering solutions that propel progress and redefine possibilities in steel construction.

FICEP SPA Stand MT240 ficepgroup.com

Aurarum brings dual extruder 3D printers, and a galaxy of different filaments to the show in Sydney.

Aurarum continuously works on the development of 3D printers. Aurarum niche is the large scale 3D printers being designed and built by us in Melbourne, Australia. We also produce a wide range of 3D printer filament in a large variety of colours and plastics. We are bringing all our large scale printers to the show and also will introduce Aurarum Giga – 1m3 3D printer that will be available to order.

We are constantly expanding our filament range and at the moment we can offer our customers materials such as ABS, ASA, TPU, PLA (HTPLA), PETG, PA6, PA12, HIPS, POM, ABS+, Fire Retardant ABS, ESD ABS, ESD PETG, ESD PLA and variations of all plastics with carbon fibre. We offer custom colours and bulk spools to our customers as well. Being a local Australian manufacturer, we can offer you short lead times, matching colours and also new product development. Our spool sizes range from 1kg standard spool to custom 7kg and potentially bigger.

Aurarum Giga is a dual extruder large scale 3D printer that allows you to print in large scale with speeds over 100mm/s and filament extrusion capability of over 200g/h (subject to nozzle size and material type).

Aurarum Vega series printers are all enclosed and can be used to print materials such as ABS, ASA, Nylons and many more. Enclosures are not heated by they heat up just from the bed heater to 50-60C – this allows to print challenging materials with ease. All Vega printers are also IDEX 3D printers that allow you to print two parts at the same time or to use two material types – either one for supports and the other for the main part or simply print in two colours. At Aurarum we continue to work on the development of new 3d printers and by the end of the year we expect to release heated chamber 3d printer that will have capacity to maintain chamber temp at 150C and thus will be able to print materials such as PEI, PEEK and other high temperature engineering materials that require high temperature enclosures.

As part of our service we can offer all our customers customisation of our 3D printers. If there is a specific requirement for a project and/ or any other specific need such as size, layout, extruders and etc we are confident that we can help you out to solve your problems. We and meet us at the expo.

Aurarum Stand AM768 aurarum.com.au

The KATANA band saw system

Verbotics Weld

Smart software to automatically program welding robots.

By 2030, Australia is projected to have a shortage of 70,000 welders. Unless action is taken, Australian manufacturers risk losing ground in a fast-paced and competitive global marketplace.

Industrial robots are excellent tools for welding automation — they are fast, repeatable and flexible. However, conventional programming is costly and time consuming. This means many manufacturers can’t take advantage of robot welding, especially for high-mix low-volume production.

Verbotics offers a solution that eliminates the need for manual robot programming, empowering welders to make use of their vast welding expertise without the need to code. Our software is like an expert robot programmer in a box that allows you to harness your welding process knowledge and convert it into ready-to-run robot programs.

Verbotics Weld is the result of decades of research and development packaged into an intuitive desktop application. Successfully used by low-volume and high-mix fabrication companies worldwide, you just tell it how you want to weld, and it does everything for you automatically. Our customer base across industries as varied as agriculture, shipbuilding, structural steel, and custom vehicle manufacturing can attest to this.

You simply import a CAD model of your part into our software and with a few clicks welds are identified and all the robotic motions planned; including collision avoidance, and optimised torch

Mimaki Australia

geometry based on your welding knowledge. We also include path finding to account for differences from the computer environment to the real world. From there you can simulate individual welds or the full program inside the software and get an estimate of the cycle time. You can then output code in the same structure as if a human had written it and it is ready to run on the robot.

We welcome you to our Verbotics stall at RA236 manned by our team of robotic welding experts. Join us as we showcase our products on our robotic welding system. With it, we will demonstrate the entire Verbotics process from CAD to weld (sans live welding for obvious reasons!). We will also be showing some of our larger workcells in Virtual Reality showing you what our customers around the world are doing with our software.

Feel free to email us your own part as a STEP file and we will happily organise a demonstration of our automatic programming process for you after the show. We can also provide you with a version of our software for you to test out.

So whether you are a robot user who is keen to maximise their robot utilisation, a business owner keen to future-proof their workforce, a system integrator who wishes to cater to a larger market, or a curious mind intrigued by advanced manufacturing tech, this stall will have something of value for you.

Verbotics Stand RA326 verbotics.com

Mimaki will present its cutting-edge printing solutions at Australian Manufacturing Week 2024.

Mimaki Australia will be showcasing the UJF6042Mk2 small format UV printer and the 3DUJ-2207 compact 3D printer. These innovative machines represent the pinnacle of Mimaki's commitment to excellence in digital printing and additive manufacturing.

The UJF6042Mk2 small format UV printer is a versatile powerhouse designed to meet the diverse needs of modern manufacturing. With its compact footprint and high-precision printing capabilities, this printer is ideal for businesses seeking to elevate their production processes. Whether it's printing on signage, packaging, promotional items, or industrial components, the UJF6042Mk2 delivers exceptional quality and reliability. Its advanced UV LED curing technology ensures vibrant colours, crisp details, and fast drying times, allowing for rapid turnaround and increased productivity.

One of the key features of the UJF6042Mk2 is its ability to print on a wide range of substrates, including rigid and flexible materials up to 150mm thick. This versatility opens up endless possibilities for customization and personalisation across various industries. From custom labels and decals to decorative panels and prototypes, the UJF6042Mk2 empowers businesses to unleash their creativity and bring their ideas to life with unmatched precision and efficiency.

In addition to the UJF6042Mk2, Mimaki is also showcasing the 3DUJ-2207 compact 3D printer, revolutionising the world of additive manufacturing. This innovative printer combines speed, accuracy, and versatility in a compact and user-friendly package, making it the perfect solution for small to medium-sized businesses looking to integrate 3D printing into their workflow. With its seven-colour ink set and UV LED curing technology, the 3DUJ-2207 delivers stunningly realistic prototypes and models with true-to-life colours and textures.

One of the standout features of the 3DUJ-2207 is its ability to print in full colour, enabling businesses to create visually stunning

prototypes and marketing materials with ease. Whether it's architectural models, product prototypes, or custom figurines, the 3DUJ-2207 brings designs to life with unparalleled accuracy and detail. Its compact size and intuitive interface make it easy to operate and maintain, allowing businesses to streamline their production process and reduce time to market.

At Australian Manufacturing Week, visitors will have the opportunity to see firsthand the capabilities of the UJF6042Mk2 small format UV printer and the 3DUJ-2207 compact 3D printer. From rapid prototyping to customised production, these cutting-edge machines represent the future of digital printing and additive manufacturing, empowering businesses to stay ahead of the competition and unlock new opportunities for growth and innovation.

Mimaki Australia

Stand AM794

mimaki.com

Continous3D Automated Repair

Visit the CSIRO stand AM875 to see its Continous3D Automated Repair and Additive Manufacturing technology.

The Continuous3D software enables robot systems to perform repair autonomously. It can be applied to industrial robots operating in a factory environment or in-field repair of infrastructure at the point-ofneed. Example applications are; mining ground engagement tools, excavators, material shredders, crushers, foundry casting finishing, wear plate resurfacing, and defence equipment.

Features include:

• advanced computer vision for surface measurement

• comparison with the desired specification or CAD file

• non-planar toolpaths and continuous 3D toolpaths

• robot motion planning, and

• process control to achieve the required metallisation specification.

The software can be used for a variety of robotic tasks:

• surface measurement / scanning

• laser metal deposition

• wire arc additive deposition

• cold spray deposition

• machining or grinding

A typical industrial machine requiring in-field repair.

If you are an ambitious maintenance service provider seeking a competitive edge, then please visit us to introduce your challenge to our research science experts.

CSIRO Stand AM875 csiro.au

Artificial Intelligence for Design

The CSIRO stand will also display the emerging technologies of Artificial Intelligence for Design (AI4D).

CSIRO will demonstrate examples of Artificial Intelligence for Design (AI4D) by showing how complex computationally modelled products can be optimised for performance. These examples will include flow chemistry catalytic mixers, water purification and low energy aerators that optimise key performance factors including: catalytic surface contact, mixing of fluids and heat transfer and reaction. The demonstration will show how AI4D maximises process yield and minimises energy and CO2 footprint.

While this AI4D technology platform is currently focused on fluid flow challenges featuring computationally efficient Lattice Boltzmann physics solvers, application areas now include:

• flow chemistry mixers

• membrane filter structures

• critical metals scavenging from waste streams

• direct air capture filters and extractors

• biomedical and special purpose pumps, etc.

Many of these applications depend on devices that have geometrical shapes and structures conceived to work using – and limited by – traditional manufacturing methods. With the recent advances in additive manufacturing, we are now able to produce much more intricate and adaptable shapes. The challenge now is to discover the optimal shape for any given application, and this is where AI4D add value.

AI4D uses Artificial Intelligence to predict novel, yet bespoke shapes. It provides fluid dynamical analysis of these shapes and evaluates their suitability based on performance. Putting these metrics through an evolutionary algorithm allows us to create optimal geometries. This approach is anticipated to be effective with many other potential applications, including:

• thermal optimisation

• refrigeration circulation

• customised highly adapted robotic grippers

• semi-conductor structures

• giving ambitious SMEs a competitive advantage in global markets.

In the future, the AI4D core platform is anticipated to feature:

• closed loop digital twinning with Bayesian optimisation of a parameterised geometry

• computational modelling and simulation

• output to 3D additively manufactured prototypes

• integration of experimental performance testing data back into the twin model.

Closing the loop with real-time experimental data improves accuracy and prediction of designs, which in turn will result in significant performance improvements.

If you are an ambitious manufacturer with a complex computationally designed product seeking a competitive edge, or you are just interested in how this computational tool may help your

Chain Systems Australia

In the dynamic landscape of industrial automation, the synergy between cutting-edge technology and reliable solutions is paramount. Chain Systems Australia proudly stands as the exclusive supplier of Brevetti Stendalto Cable Chains in Australia and New Zealand, offering a commitment to excellence that spans knowledge, service, and advice.

Unparalleled expertise, comprehensive solutions

Revolutionising automation with Brevetti Stendalto Cable Chains: A partnership with Chain Systems Australia. sector. This commitment to progress ensures that Brevetti Stendalto remains at the forefront of cable chain technology, setting the standard for reliability and performance. All Brevetti Stendalto cable chains and flexible cables adhere to the highest manufacturing standards, meeting the requirements of UNI EN ISO 9001:2008. This dedication to quality ensures that each product not only meets but exceeds the expectations of our clients, providing a foundation of trust and reliability in every solution we offer.

With strategic warehouses in Sydney and Perth, Chain Systems Australia ensures nationwide coverage, catering to diverse industries such as manufacturing, mining, offshore drilling, oil and gas, ports, transport, and stage technology. Boasting over 30 years of local industry experience, our dedicated team combines technical know-how with an unwavering commitment to providing complete solutions that surpass specific automation requirements.

Our partnership with Brevetti Stendalto is not just a choice; it is a deliberate commitment to offering our clients the pinnacle of Cable Chain technology. Brevetti Stendalto, an industry leader for over 50 years, has consistently delivered innovative solutions synonymous with quality and reliability. The journey began in 1968 when Brevetti Stendalto pioneered the creation of the first nylon cable chain, sparking a revolution that continues to define cable chain technology today.

Evolution through research and development

At the heart of Brevetti Stendalto's success lies an unwavering dedication to research and development. With an unsurpassed reputation in the industry, they continuously evolve their extensive product range to meet the ever-changing needs of the automation

AXT

Superior customer service

At Chain Systems Australia, we understand that superior products are only part of the equation. Our commitment extends to providing unparalleled customer service with quick response times, competitive pricing, and ongoing assistance. We aim to not only meet but exceed your expectations, fostering a long-term partnership that adds value to your operations.

Maximise productivity with Brevetti Stendalto Cable Chains

Today, as automation becomes increasingly integral to various industries, Brevetti Stendalto cable chains stand as a beacon of innovation and reliability. Contact Chain Systems Australia today and discover how Brevetti Stendalto cable chains can maximize the productivity and efficiency of your operations. Join us in embracing the future of automation, where excellence is not just a goal but a commitment.

Chain Systems Australia

Stand RA322 chainsystems.com.au

High tech Additive Manufacturing solutions on display at AMW2024.

AXT have built a portfolio of products to suit the demands of industrial and academic customers looking to take their additive manufacturing beyond the limits of domestic systems. Catering to polymer, metal and ceramic 3D printing, we have systems that offer levels of precision superior to filament printers as well as imaging and analysis tools to verify the quality and accuracy of what you have produced.

Using DLP (Digital Light Processing) technology, Miicraft 3D printers exceed the limitations of filament printers, producing parts with higher resolution (39µm) with excellent uniformity and surface finish. Boston Microfabrication (BMF) go a step further enabling you to fabricate components with resolutions down to 2µm using PµSL (Photo Micro Stereolithography) technology. Their systems combine ultra-high resolution, accuracy and precision.

For the ultimate in polymer 3D printers, the UpNano NanoOne 3D printers allow you to print parts with resolutions down to 170nm. Their 2PP (2 Photon Polymerisation) technology dispels the myth that 2PP printers sacrifice speed for resolution.

For those looking to print with metals, Aconity 3D offer modular tailorable laser powder bed fusion systems with printable areas up to 400mm diameter x 400mm high. For larger shapes they offer a wire fed 3D metal printer.

If you are looking for high-resolution metal 3D printing, Exaddon offer the CERES metal additive micromanufacturing system that

allows fabrication of metal components in the size range 1 to 1000µm size range with sub-micron resolutions.

Ever wanted to print metals components in your own custom alloys but couldn’t source them? The Amazemet rePOWDER allows you to produce custom metal powders with unmatched sphericity and narrow particle size in alloy compositions of your choice. With a range of options, you can tailor a system to accept virtually any feed material.

To check the quality and accuracy of the parts you have fabricated, the Hirox digital microscope can be used to examine the exterior and can provide analytical information. The addition of the NPS module can turn the digital microscope into a true metrological tool, Computed Tomography (CT) offers non-destructive 3D imaging of printed components. AXT offers a range of options from various suppliers from small benchtop systems for smaller components through to large, high-power systems for bigger components. These systems can be used to verify component integrity, identify defects, check dimensional accuracy, in particular for internal dimensions as well as being useful for product development.

For more details on AXT’s range of additive manufacturing solutions, please visit axt.com.au/segments/additive-manufacturing-3dprinting/

AXT

Stand AM890 axt.com.au

Colchester Machine Tool Solutions Australia

A major distributor of cutting-edge machine tools, lathes, milling machines, and drills, operates as a subsidiary of Timesavers LLC – a global leader in manufacturing and distributing advanced machine tools and related products.

The Colchester Machine Tool Solutions brand is part of this diversified engineering group with a stellar international reputation and conducts business in Europe, North America, and Australia, catering to over 100 countries worldwide.

Colchester Machine Tool Solutions recognises that groundbreaking products hinge on impeccable engineering design. Our engineering design services are meticulous in turning concepts into reality, ensuring innovation, precision, and excellence throughout the process. Our experienced engineers specialise in creating customised solutions for our machine tools to meet each customer's unique requirements.

Our machines, tailored for both industrial and training applications, proudly exemplify the excellence of British engineering, earning trust in the industry for over a century. Colchester and Harrison's manual lathes have earned a global reputation for their user-friendly design, exceptional quality, and unwavering reliability. Built to endure rugged, heavy-duty use, these lathes provide years of outstanding service with minimal maintenance. Since its launch in 1995, the Alpha CNC combination lathe has consistently been the industry's top choice. Recognised for its simplicity, it is considered the easiest CNC to operate worldwide, designed for fast, high-quality repeatability and accuracy. The Alpha X series has undergone continuous development since its inception in 1996. This series offers a wide range of control levels, from manual operation to full ISO, all integrated into a single machine. For specialised heavyturning applications, the Colchester Magnum HD series of largecapacity CNC lathes, driven by Fanuc technology, offers enhanced versatility. The Colchester Storm series is a comprehensive range of high performance, heavy-duty CNC vertical mills. They are highly rigid in construction for fast, precise, and smooth machining with a compact footprint. They are ergonomically designed for ease of operator use and comfort. They are well suited for use in the

ECI Solutions

engineering, manufacturing, and education sectors. Storm is an impressive and wide range of high-performance, heavy-duty vertical machining centres. They are available in linear guideways (VL series), box ways (VH series) & Tool Variants.

Clausing is dedicated to the highest standards in machine tool manufacture, manufacturing mills, drills, and bandsaws. All our machines are of rugged construction for the manufacturing environment and are CE-compliant. Clausing machine tools adhere to our design and specifications, meeting the highest quality standards in the industry. Our commitment to reliability and robustness extends to the entire range of Iberdrill drilling machines manufactured to exacting standards in Spain. Rong Fu manufactures high-quality, stand-alone, heavy-duty gear-driven mill drill machines suitable for large-scale production and small workshop applications, as well as manufacturing metal cutting band saws. We offer configurations to suit each market and customer's requirements.

Our dedication to sustainability extends beyond internal operations to engaging with local communities through initiatives supporting education programs and the wider manufacturing sector. Since 2018, we have successfully reduced our carbon footprint by an impressive 65%, focusing on energy reduction, sustainable energy supply, and changes to our fleet vehicles. Colchester Machine Tool Solutions remains committed to investing in a greener and more responsible future.

In summary, Colchester Machine Tool Solutions is a leader in the machine tool industry, known for its customer-centric approach, engineering excellence, innovation, and commitment to sustainability.

Colchester Machine Tool Solutions Stand MT300 colchestermachines.au

ECI Solutions brings innovative new machine intelligence to AMW2024 with Alora.

ECI Solutions will unveil its machine monitoring solution, Alora, at Australian Manufacturing Week 2024, aiming to transform manufacturers through superior machine intelligence and real-time analytics. Following its official launch on 10th April, ECI Solutions will demonstrate its newly integrated machine monitoring solution, Alora, at Australian Manufacturing Week 2024, showcasing the latest in machine intelligence for manufacturing. This innovative solution is engineered to enhance the manufacturing industry's operational efficiency through sophisticated machine monitoring and real-time analytic capabilities.

Often, manufacturing data is trapped across multiple, incompatible machines and systems that don’t speak to each other. Alora helps to break down barriers and bridge this gap for under-resourced, time-pressured manufacturers, helping them to derive critical insights from the vast amount of data at their disposal. Alora lets manufacturers create and display actionable, real-time insights across operations by analysing data from native ERP integrations and the shop floor. It displays insights through a single pane of glass so users can monitor machines and equipment more easily and take actions that lead to immediate improvements. Alora’s capability to integrate seamlessly with existing enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems gives manufacturers comprehensive visibility into their production processes. This enhanced oversight leads to

more informed decision-making, resulting in improved productivity and cost savings. The solution's focus on real-time data analysis is particularly advantageous, as it identifies and resolves potential issues quickly before they can impact production. Alora's launch at the Australian Manufacturing Week underscores ECI Solutions' commitment to providing cutting-edge technology solutions to the manufacturing sector. ECI Solutions helps manufacturers stay competitive in an increasingly digital landscape by offering a tool that improves operational efficiency, reduces costs, and drives data-driven decision-making. Modern manufacturers need data to deliver a competitive edge; however, they also need the capability to understand the data enough to turn it into actionable insights. ECI Solutions will demonstrate how manufacturers can use Alora to transform their operations, connecting ERP data with real-time data from the shop floor for a complete view of production performance.

The ECI Solutions team will be available to discuss how Alora helps manufacturers to make real-time business decisions and reallocate resources at pace, while spending less money on unnecessary new machine purchases and additional headcount by optimising existing resources.

ECI Software Solutions Stand MS580 ecisolutions.com

AUSTRALIA’S PREMIER MANUFACTURING SOLUTIONS EVENT

6-9 MAY, 2025

MELBOURNE CONVENTION & EXHIBITION CENTRE

SHOCASING 7 PRODUCT ZONES

AUSTRALIANMANUFACTURINGWEEK.COM.AU

Think Brick and roofing tiles

Clay brick and roof tile manufacturers aim for Net Zero emissions. By Dr. Cameron Chai and Cathy Inglis Group CEO/ Think Brick Australia and Australian Roofing Tile Association.

Clay bricks, pavers and roof tiles need to be fired in a kiln similar to pottery and you would be right in assuming that this takes a significant amount energy. And this is just one step in the manufacture of these building materials. Regardless, the clay brick and tile manufacturers of Australia have established a roadmap that is aimed at working towards net zero CO2 emissions by 2050. While this roadmap is about to be rolled out, members have already taken significant steps to reducing emissions over the last 15 to 20 years.

About the industry

The clay brick, paver and roof tile industry is worth over $2.8bn in Australia alone with 20 factories located around the nation and employing over 30,000 people in manufacturing and associated construction activities. The demand for clay bricks, pavers and roof tiles continues to be strong owing to their durability, flexibility and range of products. Available in an extensive range of colours that do not fade or deteriorate, they offer timeless style, with the ability to withstand harsh weather conditions, provide longevity and low maintenance.

While the technology used to manufacture these clay-based products has not changed significantly for a very long time, the industry as a whole is committed to making the required changes that will hopefully see them achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050. To this end, the manufacturers have collectively drafted a roadmap to make this concept a reality and while this plan will commence this year, all the member companies have already started their respective journeys down this road over the last 15 to 20 years. We will examine various stages of the workflow to see where beneficial changes are being made.

Raw materials

Clay-based building materials are primarily made from clay and shale with some other inorganic materials. Unfired brick waste material can also be fed directly back into the process, further reducing waste and minimising reliance on new materials. Similarly, recycled, fired clay materials can also be crushed and reused. Clay is a readily available raw material, and 95% of raw materials that go into these products are locally sourced minimising carbon contributions from raw materials transportation.

The industry is also sourcing raw materials from excavation and building sites, reducing the need to dump these materials and reducing energy and costs of raw material beneficiation. Other raw materials that are being used or are being investigated include fly ash from coal-fired power plants, grain dust by-products as well as recycled glass and concrete waste.

To further minimise transport emissions, manufacturers have located plants as close as possible to clay pits.

Water is required to convert the clay blend into a plastic mixture so it can be formed into bricks and tiles via processes such as extrusion or pressing. Manufacturers are looking for ways to use recycled water and/or stormwater which can be held in retention pits reducing usage from town water supplies.

Drying

As mentioned, water is added to the mixture. As much of this water needs to be removed as possible via drying before the “green products” can be fired. The dryers are fuelled using recycled heat from the kilns, minimising energy consumption.

Firing

Firing has traditionally been undertaken in gas-fired kilns. Manufacturers are now employing alternative fuels such as biofuels to reduce their dependence on fossil fuels. They are also investigating the potential use of hydrogen as an alternative fuel source. On top of that, the manufacturers use scrubbers and filters to minimise emissions from the firing process. These devices remove potentially harmful pollutants such as HCl, HF, SO2 and particulates that can be generated during firing.

Improving energy efficiency

As part of their individual overall process improvement commitments, each manufacturer is constantly looking for ways to improve their efficiencies. This includes upgrading equipment with more energy efficient models as well as refining processes. Examples include moving to electric forklifts and hybrid vehicles for tool of trade passenger vehicles. On top of this some manufacturers have invested in onsite photovoltaic installations, providing renewably sourced electricity for machinery and other operations and reducing their dependence on fossil fuels.

Another example to reduce energy demand is the redesigning of products such as modifications to brick core patterns and the increase of core size so less raw materials are used and hence require less energy to dry, fire and transport.

Packaging

Many manufacturers dispatch their products as strapped packs. This keeps packaging materials to an absolute minimum as well as minimising weight as much as possible. Those manufacturers who do use pallets have pallet pickup schemes to ensure the pallets are re-used and don’t end up in landfill. Manufacturers are also using recycled and recyclable packaging materials where possible.

End-of-life materials

Clay building products are extremely stable and inert. Roof tiles and pavers can simply be removed and re-laid. The same can be said for bricks after the mortar is removed. Bricks can be reused with their structural properties intact, one of the few building materials

that have this capability. Owing to their stability, they can also be crushed and used as road base or used to make new masonry or roof tile products. In the latter case, this recycled material, known as “grog” can constitute up to 10% of a new product and contributes to the circular economy.

End-of-life clay pits

Once the economic lifespan of a clay pit has been achieved, these mine sites are being refurbished and given back to communities. Examples include Thornleigh Brickpit Stadium, formerly the site of National Brickworks (1901-1975) and Maitland Hospital, formerly East Maitland Brickworks, later purchased by PGH (closed in 2006 after operating for over 120 years). Interestingly, the new hospital design pays homage to its brick manufacturing origins.

Specific member activities

Brickworks Building Products are investigating the feasibility of installing an onsite renewable gas facility. The proposed design has the potential to produce approximately 210,000GJ renewable gas per year. PGH have installed a 400m2, 377kW solar system at their Cecil Park plant. Producing and estimated 510,000 kWh of electricity annually, this translates to a reduction in carbon emissions of 347 tonnes of CO2e per year.

Daniel Robertson bricks celebrated ten years of Climate Active Carbon Neutral certification. They achieved this by using local waste sawdust as an alternative fuel source for their kiln. This resulted in savings of over 7,077 tonnes of CO2 per annum.

Energy efficient benefits to homeowners

While the manufacturers are making efforts to reduce emissions and increase efficiency, it should be noted that there are also benefits to homeowners to using clay bricks and roof tiles. Following a study commissioned in 2001 by Think Brick Australia in conjunction with the University of Newcastle, various house building systems were compared, namely double brick (cavity brick), brick veneer and lightweight construction. Using data collected over more than ten years from actual small houses, the data overwhelmingly suggests that there is a correlation between building mass and energy efficiency. The researchers looked at the energy consumption from an air conditioning unit required to maintain a constant room temperature.

The increased building mass of the brick homes was found to introduce thermal inertia. This meant that the internal temperature of the house lagged behind the outside temperature. In summer brick homes heat up more slowly than the ambient temperature and then start cooling down as the ambient temperature drops during the diurnal cycle, so never reach the maximum temperature encountered in houses built using lightweight building materials. Similarly, in the winter months, the higher mass houses retain more heat from the day which can be radiated back into the house. Bottom line, the brick constructed houses maintain a more consistent temperature leading to more comfortable living conditions and reduced energy consumption from HVAC systems.

Concluding remarks

Australian manufacturers of clay bricks and roof tiles, and members of Think Brick Australia and the Australian Roofing Tile Association are proactively tackling sustainability. Collectively they have committed to reducing emissions and working towards net zero carbon emissions by 2050. They have already taken great strides towards achieving this, but understand there is still work to be done, some of which may require further R&D. That said, they have drafted a new roadmap with a clear goal in mind and will shortly embark on this new journey towards net zero nirvana.

thinkbrick.com.au

ausrooftiles.com.au

Breathe EV

Climate, comfort, and coin using EVs in construction.

Living near a building site will no longer mean being woken up at the crack of dawn by such loud revving engines thanks to the electrification of construction vehicles. Future operators will soon be utilising screens to control machines in a safer, calmer environment, and one day, machines could dig holes themselves as the industry advances and moves closer towards automation.

Calmer streets

Hearing the birds sing whilst watching the new shopping center take shape reimagines city life. Noise pollution is one of the greatest contributors to the disruption that surrounds construction sites, but with the installation of batteries in the place of engines, this will soon be significantly improved.

Two of the most common machines to be electrified first are diggers and loaders, used on larger projects such as building foundations and bridges, or digging in mines. As some of the largest and, therefore, noisiest machines, this change will be noticeably beneficial across whole cities. Companies like Volvo are already on the way to mainstreaming these machines.

From a safety perspective, electrification of machinery is the best way forward. Operators will be able to better hear instructions from site leaders, whilst communication amongst workers will improve with less shouting over loud vibrations and hums of diesel engines. The experience of driving these machines will also become more pleasant, as noise-canceling headphones will no longer be necessary. Workers can be more in touch with the outside world and more aware of their surroundings to enjoy their time at work instead of feeling isolated.

Breathing better

Air quality in construction sites will always be an issue so long as diesel machines are present. It is particularly bad for those working on the site or for people passing by holding their breath as they walk. Electric vehicles can solve this problem.

Clearer air is not only beneficial for the health of workers but for the environment as well. When working in smaller spaces, such as indoors with mini excavators, ventilation systems would need to be employed to suck the diesel from the air. Making these machines electric will make sites cleaner and much more comfortable for everyone.

Taking a closer look inside the machines, Li-ion batteries used inside most electric machines are durable, with longer life and fewer costs involved with charging them up. Refilling diesel is a constant cost, especially in large vehicles. With the investment of switching to electric, builders will see a greater return for their money, and as prices of these batteries are predicted to decrease in the coming years, these machines will become even more cost-effective.

What does the future hold?

In the near future, we could see the installation of screen displays, providing an alternative to using eyesight alone to control the vehicles. Productivity can be maximised if workers have a clear all-round view of the area, without dust and fumes covering the windows. Cat are currently developing sensors for their machines that are able to detect when there are people surrounding the area, whilst Liebherr are installing 360 cameras with bird's eye views, bringing new levels of safety to construction.

Looking further ahead, this electrification and modernization of construction vehicles will enable automation of some tasks. It could be possible to program specific parameters of a task for a machine, such as digging holes or lifting materials, then sit back and allow the machine to complete the task seamlessly and safely. People could manage construction sites with their feet up behind a desk, watching their clever equipment do all the physical labor for them out in the cold weather.

Not only this, but the hydraulic systems used to move the tools of these large machines could be replaced with fully electric linear actuators. These would make machines much more robust and a lot cleaner, with no concerns about leakage or constant maintenance. Companies are looking to start greater production of electric construction vehicles in the near future. In their report on the topic, IDTechEx predicts that electric machines will account for 750,000 construction vehicle sales per year by 2043, demonstrating just how game-changing this equipment is expected to be for the construction industry. Not only are they safer, allowing workers to hear each other and breathe cleaner air, but investment in these vehicles seems to be a smart business solution with greater longterm benefits. IDTechEx.com/EVConstruction

Building a hub

Aurecon commits to research hub to advance timber in the built environment.

Aurecon has committed $200,000 in funding and in-kind support as a Principal Partner of the $16.5m ARC Industrial Transformation Research Hub to Advance Timber for Australia’s Future Built Environment, administered by the University of Queensland.

The aim of the hub is to develop the resources, enablers, and drivers to advance timber, as a natural resource, to be the material of choice, leading towards a net zero future for Australia’s built environment. Aurecon is involved in various nodes including Performance of Building Components, Manufacturing Innovation, Towards a Low Carbon and Circular Economy and Building Performance for Occupants.

Aurecon’s Major Project Director, Ralph Belperio, who is on the Hub’s Executive Board and Hub Partner Investigator, said that Aurecon has identified that timber has a key role to play in decreasing both embodied and operational carbon as we move towards a net-zero future. “Several of the research nodes that the Hub is tackling are directly relevant to the decarbonisation pursuits of many of our key clients,” Belperio said. “We have assembled a team of our most eminent practitioners to focus on each of the relevant nodes that can help guide the research strategies to ensure that the outcomes remain industry focussed and meet the needs of the broader construction community.

“Our significant investment is key to our desire to remain at the forefront of innovation, both in the efficient and effective use of timber in our efforts to decarbonise the built environment, and in our broader drive for more sustainable outcomes”.

Aurecon has an enviable track record of designing and delivering mass engineered timber structures, including Murdoch University’s Boola Katitjin, which won the 2023 Engineers Australia Project of the Year; 25 King St, which is Australia’s tallest mass-engineered timber commercial building; and Gaia, one of the largest mass-engineered timber buildings in Asia.

Aurecon also contributes to mass-engineered timber advocacy as a partner of the Forest and Climate Leaders’ Partnership Coalition on Greening Construction with Sustainable Wood and the Materials Embodied Carbon Leaders’ Alliance.

The research support for the ARC Advance Timber Hub is just one of a number of research and development commitments that Aurecon is currently undertaking, including the development of sustainable alternatives for sand in shotcrete, improving design through AIassisted stakeholder engagements, and reducing wastage through a circular economy approach to building retrofits.

aurecongroup.com

ARENA doing NIT

Continuing ARENA support for industrial decarbonisation.

On behalf of the Australian Government, the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) has launched the $40m National Industrial Transformation (NIT) Program aimed at supporting the reduction of scope 1 and scope 2 emissions at existing or planned industrial facilities in Australia.

The NIT Program is an update to the former Industrial Energy Transformation Studies Program (IETS) to more comprehensively support industrial decarbonisation.

The NIT Program allows a more streamlined and seamless integration with the recently launched $400m Industrial Transformation Stream (ITS). The revisions allow support for industrial emissions abatement across Australia, as well as helping to expand the program scope to now include applications from the pre-feasibility, feasibility and FEED stages through to trial, demonstration and deployment activities. Former IETS funding has now been reallocated to the NIT Program.

The objectives of National Industrial Transformation are to:

• Support industrial facilities in Australia to reduce emissions in line with Australia’s 2030 emissions reduction goals and transition to net zero by 2050.

• Improve technology readiness and commercial readiness of renewable energy technologies, energy efficiency technologies

Monash Coates collab

and electrification technologies that will result in a significant reduction in scope 1 and/or scope 2 emissions or improve the energy efficiency of an industrial process or processes.

• Encourage technology demonstration, collaboration and knowledge sharing across industry and regions.

• Support upskilling of industrial workforce in new decarbonisation activities.

Unlike the recently launched ITS Program, the NIT Program is not constrained to regional, National Greenhouse Energy Reporting (NGER) facilities.

“The National Industrial Transformation Program will expand the type of applications that can be received, adding another vital tool to our industrial decarbonisation efforts,” ARENA CEO Darren Miller said. “With industry accounting for approximately 44% of Australian emissions, we need to target sectors such as agriculture, water, mining and manufacturing to assist them progress towards net zero. ARENA’s funding model is well placed to make a real impact.”

Both the Industrial Transformation Stream and the National Industrial Transformation Program are now open for applications. Applicants are encouraged to contact ARENA to discuss the most appropriate Program and to visit the NIT webpage for further information. arena.gov.au

Award winning engineering design improves safety and efficiency at construction sites.

A collaboration between Monash University and Coates Engineering Solutions is using high-strength steel, common to the automotive industry, to develop a lightweight high capacity propping solution for temporary construction works. The innovative solution, called Quadshore, has undergone rigorous destructive and non-destructive experimental tests at material, component and system levels, in accordance with Australian Safety Standards, to demonstrate the durability and superior performance of the product.

Lead academic researcher, Associate Professor Amin Heidarpour, from Monash University’s Department of Civil Engineering said high-strength steel has not been efficiently utilised in temporary structures due to its limited plasticity. “Quadshore contains hybrid components that creatively maximises optimum use of both high-strength and mild-steel to create lightweight, high-strength structural elements and boltless connections,” Associate Professor Heidarpour said. “The unique experimental facilities and lab environment at Monash’s Civil Engineering Department allowed our team to undertake the experimental tests on this product that replicated its behaviour in real-world settings.” With a working load limit of up to 170 tonnes, it is the lightest heavyduty structural propping system available anywhere in the world. Over the past ten years research students and staff at Monash’s Civil Engineering’s Labs have worked on materials and concept studies for this project, culminating in a multi-year collaboration with Coates Engineering Solutions. The research conducted by the last PhD student, Dr Esmaeil Pournamazian Najafabadi, addressed the challenges with heavy conventional props, that are mainly made from mild steel with low capacity-to-weight ratios.

“Our research has shown that by using high-strength steel we have been able to enhance the sustainability credentials of temporary structures where the carbon emission and energy consumption for manufacturing of Quadshore beams is at least 30% lower than conventional props,” Associate Professor Heidarpour said.

“Industry benchmarks have measured the success of our product in terms of construction time, cost saving, safety enhancing features and sustainability credentials.” “The lightweight feature of Quadshore will result in a lower carbon footprint with cheaper transport costs and less shipping and handling fees. The speed of installation also means improved productivity for our construction industry,” said Associate Professor Heidarpour.

This patented technology is acknowledged to be an exemplar in university-industry research collaboration that has facilitated research commercialisation and provided tangible outcomes with societal, economic and environmental benefits.

The Quadshore design, nominated by peak body for locally made steel, the Australian Steel Institute, won the ‘Innovation of the Year Award’ at the World Steel Association’s International Constructsteel Awards 2023, and most recently received a prestigious Good Design Award Gold Winner Accolade in the Engineering Design category in recognition of its outstanding design, innovation and customer-centric solution to local and global challenges. Both these awards acknowledge the impact of Monash‘s high-strength steel research, on the construction and design industry. monash.edu

CDU city campus stays cool

The façade of Charles Darwin University’s (CDU) new city campus is complete ahead of the wet season, capping off the building’s main protection against Darwin’s tropical heat and humidity.

Standing 40 metres tall, with a combination of vertical and sloping design features, the building includes curtain wall with porcelain tiles, horizontal aluminium louvres, and various types of cladding to reflect the harsh Darwin weather, while ensuring the iconic Boab tree is not overshadowed.

The milestone joins other achievements at the Education and Community Precinct, also known by the Larrakia name Danala, including disassembling the two cranes and sealing the building against the elements.

The Australian Government has contributed $97.3m to the $250m campus project, which is the centrepiece of the Darwin City Deal. Construction of the city campus was also funded by the Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility (NAIF), with a $151.5m NAIF loan supporting the University’s growth.

Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said the new campus would be a cornerstone of future innovation and education, while also contributing to the economic growth of the Territory. “The infrastructure we are delivering today will play a key role in the Territory of tomorrow – especially with this environmental design protecting the façade of Charles Darwin University’s new city campus from the harsh Darwin tropical heat and humidity," Ms King said.

“The Australian Government is pleased to be delivering this project in this impressive new precinct that will bolster the territory’s economy for years to come.”

The façade is primarily made of porcelain cladding, which is engineered to endure – it is non-combustible, absorbs minimal water, resists high wind loads and UV and keeps infrastructure cool by reflecting heat back into the atmosphere, which also protects surrounding outdoor spaces from the emitted heat.

Architectural and façade design elements will provide a shaded, well insulated, solar controlled, and sealed thermal envelope. Other heat mitigation techniques include sustainable landscape and heat island reduction design.

The main structure of the building is separated by an air gap from the façade, and insulation and double-glazed windows further prevent the transfer of heat between surfaces and indoors. Northern Territory Minister for Skills, Training and International Education Joel Bowden said the campus’ modern facilities will benefit both CDU students and the greater Darwin community.

“We want more students from the Territory, interstate and overseas to come to Darwin and further their tertiary studies in our world class facilities,” Mr Bowden said.

“CDU’s new modern and innovative campus design will go a long way in attracting more students to the Top End as this landmark building continues to transform the Darwin city centre. “The new educational precinct will revitalise our CBD, support local businesses and create more jobs.” CDU Vice-Chancellor Professor Scott Bowman said the environmentally sustainable design ensures the city campus will endure Darwin’s changing seasons.

“In collaboration with the CSIRO Darwin Living Lab, the Precinct has been designed to weather our seven Larrakia seasons, from our monsoonal storms of the wet season to the heat of the dry,” Professor Bowman said.

“Catering to Darwin’s unique climate means the campus’ intelligent design is fit-for-purpose. Our new city campus will not only provide students with modern teaching and learning spaces during study hours, but they can come here on weekends and enjoy the outdoor sports courts, sit underneath the Boab and experience Darwin’s thriving arts scene and cultural heritage indoors.”

A yellow 33-metre tall Potain MR-225 Luffing crane and a blue 50-metre tall Comansa 21CM335 Freestanding Tower Crane were dismantled earlier this month, with the former mainly used to assemble the campus’ façade and the latter to carry materials to the top levels.

With the building now sealed against the coming wet weather, works continue with services fit-out, civil and drainage works, hard landscaping, general architectural finishes, metal works and roofing works, with main construction expected to be complete in the second quarter of 2024. cdu.edu.au

Gekko Systems is just the start. Elizabeth Lewis-Gray is the cofounder, chair and managing director of Gekko Systems. She is the founding chair of the Federal Government's Mining Equipment, Technology and Services (METS) Growth Centre, METS Ignited and a founder and patron of the Coalition for Energy Efficient Comminution (CEEC). She has also served on a number of boards.

In August 2023, Elizabeth was inducted into the Victorian Manufacturing Hall of Fame for Service to Industry. She spoke with Sonya Murphy for AMT.

AMT: What were your initial thoughts when you received the Honour Roll at the Victorian Manufacturing Hall of Fame Awards this year in Melbourne?

Elizabeth Lewis-Gray: I was expecting to have been nominated for a regional manufacturing award, or the women in manufacturing award. As the night went on, those awards came up and I wasn’t nominated for them. Then I thought maybe it was the medium manufacturer’s award, but soon realised I hadn’t been nominated for that either. I looked at the program and came to the realisation that I was up for the top gong for the night. It was an exciting, and very special night shared with my husband, daughters, and our team. I’m passionate about manufacturing and an advocate for regional manufacturing. I’m proud that we have a world-class technology and manufacturing team in the regional city of Ballarat. Australia is considered world’s best in the mining and mining technology industries. Both industries are grouped together, yet the mining technology and services (METS) sector sits alongside mining and is one of our largest sophisticated technology and digital industries worth $120bn in Australia. Fifty-five percent of companies in the METS sector are exporters. To export, you have to be world-class, and competitive on a global scale.

At Gekko Systems, we succeed because we are innovative, both in our product design, and the way we market and sell ourselves globally.

AMT: Are you working with companies in the critical minerals industry?

ELG: We are working with several companies in the critical minerals industry, for example, a company that produces both tantalite and lithium. Both are both critical and strategic minerals. Strategic minerals are required in the production of renewable energy and critical minerals are minerals that are in short supply. As you know Australia’s mining industry has been focused on coal, iron ore, and gold. Critical and strategic minerals are the new growth sectors. We have technology which separates out minerals based on their density. Our equipment is very low energy using gravity separation, which is the cleanest, lowest carbon, lowest environmental footprint technology that you can get. We are doing a lot of work with a bunch of different people who are looking to develop their critical and strategic resources.

AMT: How crucial is sustainability in mining?

ELG: It is heartening to see the lengths that the majority of critical mineral mining projects have gone to invest in green stewardship of a lot of sites.

Investors in the critical and strategic minerals are insisting that mining companies have strong sustainability practices and a clear pathway to reducing their carbon footprint. In some cases, investors will take their money out of mining companies that can’t show a clear pathway to sustainable practices.

AMT: Please tell me about the GeVentor ventilator

ELG: In any business, you have to stay ahead of the game, especially on a global level. Through one of our products, we produce 10% of the world’s gold. It’s that capability that allowed us to design and develop a ventilator when COVID came along.

The local Ballarat base hospital only had four ventilators at the beginning of the pandemic, and they knew if COVID happened the way it looked like it was going to, the hospital would be in trouble. The question was asked of the Committee of Ballarat, “what can we do and who can we talk to in Ballarat who can help us”. The Committee called me on a Sunday night to ask if we could help. I spoke to my husband. He said, what we do in our mining products is pneumatics, hydraulics and control systems, and ventilators are the same – pneumatics, hydraulics, and control systems, just on a tiny scale. Within five days, he had designed a prototype.

From there, our design team and the anaesthetists from the Ballarat base hospital started working together every night. My job was to talk to the State Government and raise the money to move the prototype forward. In the space of 24 hours a group of doctors, the Bendigo Bank and others from the local community got together and raised $240,000. I went back to the State Government and said that although we are not medical device manufacturers, we have the capability to manufacture ventilators. I expected the State Government to run with an existing medical device manufacturer. I said if they would match the $240,000 raised by the community, we’d have enough money to take the product through to final design.

The Government assessed all their options and ended up putting in $200,000. We completed the design and were the first company in Australia to get a ventilator design through the TGA in three months, which is incredible. The State Government then gave us an order to manufacture. We had to comply to 13485 ISO manufacturing standard for medical device technology.

Manufacturing isn’t just about what happens on the factory floor. It’s about design, engineering, sales and marketing. How you deliver value to the client right across the manufacturing process. My role was to oversee the process and make sure it was funded. To ensure we had the right people and could access the resources we needed.

AMT: You have a new spin-out from Gekko, Gaia EnviroTech. Could you explain some more about that?

ELG: We were looking around for another industry that we could take our modular systems thinking, our material handling competencies, as well as our other competencies, and apply it to another industry based in Australia. As a business, we are very focused on energy efficiency. It’s been one of our organisational drivers in mineral processing and this was also about improved energy platforms.

A lot of focus has gone into electrifying everything, but we need to find a solution for industry who can’t electrify because electricity doesn’t provide high enough heat for their processes. Yet they still need to de-carbonise. Think of brickworks and food manufacturers,

they need to use natural gas, or alternatively biogas. The bio-energy industry is big in Europe, they’ve been doing it for years. In fact, 30% of energy in Finland comes from bioenergy. Our inspiration was a local pig farmer who has been running an anaerobic digestion waste energy biogas plant for 30 years. We worked with him to come up with a concept of a modular anaerobic digestion plant. It’s a growth market that helps the planet by reducing methane production and replacing fossil fuels. The green matter to run the bioenergy comes from food and agricultural waste. There’s different types of bioenergy, by example we’re looking at the waste from milk processors. There are bugs in the biodigester that break down the milk, that then produces methane, and the methane is burnt to produce gas. Its super exciting. I believe this is a significant opportunity and pathway for Victoria. Bioenergy and biogas isn’t an easy sell. There are a few moving parts in the system compared to solar and wind power. In my mind this is a really important step for the manufacturing industry in Australia. We’re talking to different groups on how we can deliver organic feed stock to produce the

bioenergy. It’s very exciting. We’ve been working on it for six years to get the technologies to where they are now. We’ve just raised capital to help us do that with a decarbonisation investment fund.

AMT: Can you talk about the Dolphin Mine Processing Plant on King Island, with G6M recovering tungsten.

ELG: Tungsten hardens steel and is used a lot in wear parts and areas like defence. China produces 80% of the tungsten in the world. We need to think about if China stopped supply what don’t we have access to. We’ve just done a $60m project on King Island with Group Six Metals. It’s the only Tungsten mine in Australia. It’s used in steel-making, electronics, and many other manufacturing industries.

AMT: With so much going on in your business life, what do you do to relax?

ELG: Being in nature is how I relax. I enjoy going for hikes in the local state forests. gekkos.com

Oceanex Energy offshore wind

A plan for energising Australia with offshore wind, ensures our baseload power can withstand the winds of change.

Offshore energy is booming as a means of introducing new large scale electricity generation into our networks. Around the world, there are great examples of working structures well away offshore, pulling clean power out of the wind, where it blows the strongest. Oceanex Energy is developing three offshore wind farms off the coast of NSW: Novocastrian Offshore Wind Farm, Illawarra Offshore Wind Farm and Eden Offshore Wind Farm.

The Novocastrian Offshore Wind Farm is a 2,000MW (2GW) floating offshore wind farm proposed by project partners Oceanex Energy and Equinor Australia. The Project provides an incredible opportunity for the Hunter Region, state of New South Wales and Australia, to be a world-leader in the growing offshore wind industry. The Hunter can be a regional powerhouse in the development, manufacturing and deployment of floating offshore wind farms powering NSW and Australia to a new, clean energy future.

Offshore wind generation off the Hunter coast has a steady, high wind profile that generates at peak electricity usage times, fills gaps from other renewable sources and supports NSW's planned future energy mix. The Project's 2GW size and proximity to the existing port and grid infrastructure enables the delivery of a new bulk source of electricity to consumers with minimal transmission upgrades. The Project will create thousands of jobs and billions of dollars of investment for the Hunter region and its people, over its 30 year lifespan. Skills from mining, power generation, manufacturing, land and marine logistics, project management and administration will be transferred into the offshore wind industry.

The Novocastrian Offshore Wind Farm was identified in 2020 as the key to unlocking the opportunity for a new NSW offshore wind industry by Oceanex Founders, Andy Evans and Peter Sgardelis (also co-founders of the Star of the South). The significant potential of the Hunter, with its combination of strong wind resources, deep coastal waters, port facilities, grid infrastructure and an industrial legacy, makes it ideal for floating offshore wind at scale.

Equinor is the global leader in floating offshore wind, as the developer and operator of the Hywind Scotland and Hywind Tampen wind farms, with the latter project being the largest floating offshore wind farm in operation when commissioned recently in August 2023. Equinor operates nearly 50% of the world’s existing floating offshore wind capacity and is one of the world’s largest broad energy companies with a market capitalisation of over $150bn, bringing unparalleled global experience in introducing floating offshore wind farms into new markets.

Oceanex and Equinor plan to develop, construct and operate Australia's first floating offshore wind farm. Since starting in 2020, Oceanex has been building a team of local and global expertise and knows what is required to deliver floating offshore wind for the Hunter, NSW and Australia. “Together with Equinor,” said Oceanex Energy’s COO Emily Scivetti, “we have more than 50 years’ experience in establishing, developing, and operating major offshore energy projects.”

Oceanex was the first developer in Australia to release an offshore wind Supply Chain Investment and Investment Opportunities Report in 2022. Andy Evans is the CEO and a founder of Oceanex and also the former CEO and a co-founder of the Star of the South (proposed 2GW offshore wind farm off the coast of Victoria). “Andy has 20 years of experience in Australia’s energy sector,” added Scivetti, “and has been heavily involved in the development of renewable energy projects since 2006, firstly in onshore wind and bioenergy, before introducing offshore wind to Australia in 2012.”

Equinor has established offshore wind operations and projects in Norway, the US, UK, Poland, and South Korea in the past five years. Consistent with our intentions for the Hunter, Equinor has strategically scaled its operations in these geographies to support project development in regional clusters. Equinor has established a regional base across the Asia Pacific of some 90-staff experienced in offshore wind and floating technology, backed by the global reach of over 22,000 employees with over 600 specialists in offshore wind project delivery.

Why offshore?

Offshore wind can supply baseload power to the NSW grid when it is needed most. For example, during the evening peak which AEMO calls maximum operational demand, offshore wind can fill in generation to complement other onshore energy generation. “Australia already should be a global offshore wind superpower,” the Climate Council’s Chief Councillor Professor Tim Flannery has said. “In fact, if all the current proposed offshore wind farms were built, their combined energy capacity would be greater than all of Australia’s coal-fired power stations.”

NSW needs large-scale new electricity generation to replace retiring coal-fired power stations and meet forecast electricity demand to ensure energy security. NSW has the highest and fastest growing population of any state in Australia, with over 8.2 million residents and is home to Australia’s largest aluminium manufacturer which is also NSW’s largest power consumer. Coal continues to be the primary fuel source for NSW's electricity. Around 70% of NSW’s delivered electricity comes from four coal generation plants scheduled to retire in the next 10-15 years.

Offshore wind provides large-scale generation and has a complementary generation profile to onshore wind and solar, which

generally generates during the day, with offshore wind profiling studies undertaken showing that the wind at sea generates during peak periods late in the day and complements other generation at those times to ‘firm’ energy supply. Offshore wind is stronger and more abundant than onshore renewable generation. Offshore wind also better corresponds to peak electricity demand. Offshore wind along the NSW coastline is more consistent and stronger in the afternoon and evening when electricity demand is high. In addition, at times when hot weather pushes electricity demand higher than usual, the differential between land and sea temperatures causes sea winds to pick up, in what is known as the ‘sea breeze effect.’ This can put more offshore wind power on the grid when it is needed. In times of extreme weather change when once again grid prices are extremely high, offshore wind is first to utilise climatic changes like ‘southerly busters’ contributing to supply.

“Our three NSW projects are essentially 2,000MW electricity generation plants at sea,” explained Scivetti. “Each project can be achieved in one consolidated process requiring one set of plans, permits, easements, connection agreements, financing and contracts.” The equivalent in onshore renewable generation being through an equal mix of multiple onshore wind and solar projects of approximately 3,000MW (due to lower capacity factors).

One key differentiator of offshore wind is it is located close to load centres which means it does not need hundreds of kilometres of high voltage transmission to get the power to where it is needed (compared with the NSW renewable energy zones). An offshore wind farm is bulk energy generation that uses a submarine cable to export the power ~20km back to shore. “If we meet roadblocks or delays with onshore transmission infrastructure, then we need to be progressing alternatives off the coast to ensure we keep the lights on and manufacturers in business,” she added.

“If we want to meet Australia’s international obligations under the Paris Agreement, we need to electrify everything and then use renewable energy sources to generate electricity,” said Scivetti. “The NSW coal fleet retires in the next decade so we need to urgently secure replacement generation and we don’t think we can keep the lights on or decarbonise the grid without the bulk scale energy generated from offshore wind.”

“NSW manufacturers such as Tomago and BlueScope need massive, reliable loads to maintain current operations and transition to green (these are separate and distinct goals). BlueScope will need 15 times its current electricity demand to transition to green steel and Tomago is Australia’s largest single energy consumer. We believe offshore wind is critical to keep Australian manufacturing operating and maintain competitive exports,” Scivetti added.

Floating foundation technology proposed for NSW projects create an immense opportunity for the Australian steel supply chain. The modular design of floating technology creates opportunities within manufacturing, assembly and installation of the floating substructures. These opportunities could bring a variety of Australian companies into collaboration with global technology leaders, enabling industrialised supply chains that balance local content, cost and schedule for asset owners. Equinor has a track record of maximising local content through designing floating foundation technology to suit local capabilities and we intend to design large parts of the Project to stimulate the local supply chain and supporting the earliest possible construction, installation and operation of the Project. It is estimated that the Novocastrian Offshore Wind Farm will need the following steel components:

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Timing is everything

According to the PwC Report commissioned by Novocastrian Wind in early 2023, the Project will increase the Hunter gross regional product by $44.3bn over its lifecycle.

Since originating industrial scale offshore wind in NSW in 2020, we have observed the following industry milestones:

• Australia’s offshore wind legislation was tabled in parliament by Angus Taylor in May 2021. (Peter Dutton was Minister for Defence and Leader of the House. Barnaby Joyce was Deputy Prime Minister for Infrastructure and Transport and Regional Development).

• The Albanese Government was elected to office in May 2022.

• The Offshore Electricity Infrastructure Act 2021 came into effect in June 2022.

“In that same month, Oceanex Energy wrote to Minister Chris Bowen, along with a delegation of organisations from across the Hunter Region of NSW, the biggest regional economy in Australia valued at over $65bn per annum. Along with organisations such as Tomago Aluminium, University of Newcastle, Newcastle City Council and Ampcontrol, together we pledged our support for an offshore wind industry and reinforced why the Hunter Region is the perfect location to become the home of Australia’s floating offshore wind industry,” said Scivetti. With established large scale, heavy industries in power, mining, manufacturing, engineering and logistics, aided by a world-class deep water port, the Hunter region is primed to take advantage of this growing sector and to become a leader in the deployment of floating foundation offshore wind farms.

In August 2022, Minister Bowen started the regulatory process for Australia’s first offshore wind zone in Victoria within three months of starting office and announced a total of six proposed offshore regions to establish a new Australian offshore wind industry:

• Bass Strait off Gippsland in Victoria (Andy and Peter received an exploration licence from the Morrison Government in early 2019 for Star of the South which is why this is the most progressed project)

• Pacific Ocean region off the Hunter in NSW

• Pacific Ocean region off the Illawarra in NSW

• Southern Ocean region off Portland in Victoria

• Bass Strait region off Northern Tasmania

• Indian Ocean region off Perth/Bunbury in WA

“We have also seen great progress with supply chain development,” Scivetti explained. “These projects will not succeed without local support and critical enabling infrastructure such as ports. Since the inception of our projects, we have focussed heavily on helping industry understand the requirements, scale and opportunities that offshore wind provides. As evidence of this, both Port of Newcastle and NSW Ports/Port Kembla have publicly announced intentions to assess and develop offshore wind construction precincts.”

“The timeline above demonstrates that Australia can move swiftly, and the Albanese Government should be congratulated on its progress,” Scivetti added. “Compared with other nations starting their own offshore wind industries, Australia has established a solid regulatory framework in good time. The global industry is very encouraged by the speed of announcements, but we need licences issued urgently to progress projects, keep the attention of global investors and secure our production slots to build Australia projects.” oceanexenergy.com.au

Emily Scivetti, Oceanex Energy COO

Andy Evans, Oceanex Energy CEO

Engineers Without Borders

Rockwell Automation has announced a new partnership with Engineers Without Borders Australia (EWB) to support sustainable development in our local and regional communities.

Rockwell Automation and EWB share a vision that encouraging young students to develop a sustainability mindset, supported by curiosity and belief in the power of engineering, can help overcome the world’s sustainable development challenges.

Under this partnership, Rockwell Automation Australia employees will train and inspire budding engineers in the problem-solving possibilities of engineering. EWB and Rockwell will also explore opportunities for employees to collaborate to solve regional problems including increasing diversity in the engineering sector through engaging Indigenous and female students, as well as those from low socio-economic backgrounds – cohorts that are currently underrepresented in the industry.

“This partnership demonstrates Rockwell Automation’s commitment to our local communities and our belief in expanding human possibility,” said Anthony Wong, regional director, South Pacific, Rockwell Automation. “We are excited to expand on our existing philanthropic support for STEM education and workforce enablement, which will help contribute to sustainable outcomes for our company, customers and communities.”

EWB Australia collaborates with partner organisations like Rockwell on working with disadvantaged communities in-country to assist them in gaining access to the knowledge, resources, skills, and appropriate technologies needed to achieve their community priorities. “We are delighted with this new partnership with Rockwell Automation. They are shaping the future in a huge range of engineering-focused industries, and the expertise of Rockwell

Anthony Wong and Sharon Bocarro made the partnership official in a signing at Rockwell’s headquarters in Melbourne.

Automation staff will greatly help our local community initiatives,” said Sharon Bocarro, chief development officer, EWB. rockwellautomation.com

Rigby Cooke Lawyers has been advising manufacturers on their commercial needs for decades. And, that’s why we are the ‘go-to’ legal advisors for AMTIL members and the manufacturing industry.

At Rigby Cooke Lawyers, we can assist with all your business legal needs and have the expertise to advise on the following:

> Commercial transactions

> Business structuring (companies, joint ventures and partnerships)

> Commercial contracts

> International trade (import and export)

> Employment and workplace relations

> Occupational health and safety

> Succession planning and family business

> Personal property securities law

> Intellectual property

> Privacy and data protection

> Property sales, purchases and leasing

> Planning and environment

> Building and construction

> Litigation and dispute resolution

> Insolvency, asset protection and reconstruction

> Tax

For more information on how we can assist you and our exclusive benefits for AMTIL members, please contact Julia Cameron, Lead Partner of our Manufacturing group, on (03) 9321 7807 or JCameron@rigbycooke.com.au.

T: +61 3 9321 7888

InfinitEV

A value-add sustainable battery circular economy is possible in Australia.

Imagine a holistic sustainable future, one that demands we change our relationship with Electric Vehicle battery waste and embrace a reimagined cycle of utility. A value-added approach by looking for ways to extend battery life through their reuse and repurposing before recycling.

A comprehensive battery stewardship program is not just about doing less of the ‘bad thing’ but capturing the highest battery value throughout its lifecycle. It’s about doing more of the ‘good thing’ while mitigating waste. This doesn’t only provide a better outcome but also creates a more resilient future and economy. On the other hand, a substandard battery stewardship approach would be to ship the batteries to a waste management company.

Keeping EV batteries in a ‘battery hotel’ (Infinitev’s active battery warehouse service) saves money in the long term. Batteries that sit unused have a shelf life (~1 year) after which they are sent to end of life (EOL) processors (as they no longer meet protocol requirements). By keeping the batteries in our active warehouse, they are exercised and actively monitored so the shelf life can be extended. The notion that ‘used batteries’ have intrinsic value is true. However, this is only true so long as they are properly tested, graded, and used in the highest-value application. Who will pay for a used battery without knowing its true condition? What’s more, it will cost money to dispose of the battery if the buyer finds it is not good enough for the application. The highest value of the batteries is in their original application, in the vehicle.

Repairing or remanufacturing batteries unlocks this value potential. Having the option to create an alternative from spent battery packs (such as Battery Energy Storage System) is a sound option but it is second to exhausting all possibilities of reusing the batteries for vehicle application. A new battery pack can cost up to 50% of the vehicle price. Currently, if the battery fails under warranty, the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) provides a new battery pack at a great cost. What if the OEM can provide a ‘warranty remanufactured battery pack’ that meets health conditions per the age and use of the vehicle? What if a customer post warranty can tap into this service?

This option does not only capture the highest value possible but also avoids sending batteries to waste at a cost.

At Infinitev, we want to see a world in which a battery is borrowed by multiple users throughout its life. Reused, repurposed, and recycled infinitely.

How it works

It is circular by design. The EV battery comes out of a vehicle and a SafetyCheck is performed, a physical and electrochemical safety inspection, together with a HealthCheck, the characterisation of the battery at pack, stack, and module level. This is where the magic

Dickson Leow is a Chartered Professional Engineer (CPEng), Fellow (FIEAust), and Executive Engineer (ExecEng) of Engineers

Australia with nearly three decades of experience in both private and government sectors in Mobility, EV/ Hybrid, Battery Energy, ITS, CAV, Homologation, Regulatory Affairs, Vehicle Engineering & Design, Vehicle Safety, and IP Law in Australia, Europe, and Japan. Dickson also holds an MBA, BSc, BEng, and post-grad in IP Law.

happens, and the EV batteries are characterised into each of these A, B, or C grades.

• A Grade is still in the upper echelons of performance and suitable for use in a traction battery.

• B Grade is no longer strong enough to meet the dynamic demands of powering a vehicle, but that doesn’t mean it’s useless. It just means that its next best use is in a different application.

• C Grade is when we’ve exhausted the useful life of the battery and prepared it for EOL processing.

With this approach, we focus on avoiding loss, minimising waste, and preventing the negative. We focus on creating value, leveraging what’s already there, and extracting maximum potential, the valueadd engineering. Infinitev believes that there is significant potential for this to be deployed at scale, right here in Australia, but it takes a proactive approach to make this real.

Track record

We know automotive technology - we have been remanufacturing and repairing complex electronic components for over 40 years. Today, we are leading the hybrid battery circular economy in Australia and New Zealand. We have built this capability to create world class expertise in EV batteries.

Replacement batteries for hybrid electric vehicles are not always readily available and can be expensive. They can cost up to 25% of the vehicle’s value at the time of failure, and without the battery, there is no economic (mileage) or environmental (tailpipe reduction) benefits from driving a hybrid. Infinitev makes this advanced battery technology accessible and affordable for more Australians and New Zealanders.

Infinitev, through its value-add engineering, offers a range of affordable replacement batteries through a nationwide network of Authorised Fitters in Australia and New Zealand. The batteries are 100% plug-and-play and come fully assembled with all the required components and shipped in specially designed safety packaging.

To make advanced battery tech accessible and affordable for customer, Infinitev has been rebuilding hybrid batteries since 2015, and we know that a premium quality rebuilt battery can make the difference between keeping a fuel-conscious hybrid on the road for longer and looking for a new car to buy. Our cutting-edge R&D allows us to deliver a quality battery, backed by a three-year warranty, which gives customers peace of mind without breaking the bank. With tech support on call, we are there to support industry along the way and deliver a hybrid battery replacement service to the customers. Our Authorised Fitter network spans the country and continues to grow the network so there’s a local specialist within 30 minutes of our customers.

The range of replacement batteries covers 99% of the vehicles on register (NiMH only). This not only covers popular models like Toyota Camry, Prius, and Honda Civic, but also creates choice for customers driving a grey import like Toyota Estima and Toyota Crown. Moreover, we are investing in research & development to grow our product range to lithium batteries for hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and battery electric vehicles.

In 2022, Infinitev won the Most Innovative New Aftermarket Product (Electrical) award from the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association. In 2023, they won the TMRRW Circular Economy –Impact Awards.

To meet industry demand, Infinitev is launching a series of hybrid battery training for automotive mechanics. It is an opportunity for Infinitev to give back to the industry and share its knowledge of highvoltage batteries, inverters, and electric motors.

Infinitev is part of Innovative Mechatronics Group Pty Ltd (IM Group). IM Group has over 40 years’ experience in repairing and remanufacturing complex automotive electronics. In addition, IM Group runs a parts distribution division selling automotive aftermarket parts. Infinitev represents IM Group’s efforts to become a leader in the EV market in Australia and New Zealand.

IM Group is a wholly owned subsidiary of GUD Holdings Limited (ASX: GUD). GUD is the company behind more than twenty automotive brands, employing over 2,000 people.

Certification and memberships

• ISO9001 and ISO14001

• Association for the Battery Recycling Industry (ABRI): industry peak body promoting the policies, recycling, and safe disposal of batteries. Helps shape and drive national practices in Australia.

• Battery Stewardship Council (BSC): industry peak body promoting the establishment of a battery stewardship scheme to increase coordinated battery collections and recycling in Australia.

• Battery Industry Group (BIG): New Zealand’s battery stewardship peak body, which operates under the governance of Auto Stewardship New Zealand.

• Electric Vehicle Council (EVC): national body representing the electric vehicle industry in Australia with a mission to accelerate the electrification of transport.

• Sustainability Victoria (SV): Victoria’s peak body for accelerating the state’s transition to a circular, climate resilient clean economy. Grant support to Infinitev.

• Australian Packaging Covenant (APCO): a not-for-profit organisation leading the development of a circular economy for packaging in Australia.

Designed for Durability Pro 3

• Made for professional 3D printing.

• Large-scale production and rapid prototyping

• High precision and repeatability

• Dual hot-swap extruders

• Smart assistant system

• Hyper Speed Upgrade Kit* boosting printing speeds up to 350 mm/s

• Pro3 model: 300 x 300 x 300 mm

• Pro3 Plus model: 300 x 300 x 605 mm

* Hyper Speed Upgrade Kit bought

DF2

E2

• Desktop 3D printer with independent dual extruders

• Made for serial production

• Duplication and mirror printing modes

• Extruder gears designed for flexible materials

• DLP resin system for fast, precise, and reliable 3D printing

• Ideal for engineering prototyping and low-volume production

• Utilises high-performance resins

• Features DF Wash and DF Cure components for a complete solution

• RFID smart build plate stores material parametres.

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infinitev.au

ANCA at 50 years

ANCA celebrates a half-century contribution to industrial progress through precision cutting tools.

Precision cutting tools are an integral part of our world at ANCA. Manufacturing just one aircraft will consume hundreds of thousands of cutting tools. Anything you can imagine that might need to be machined will require a grinding machine to provide the cutting tools. Family, fulfillment, and a fascination with technology are all part of a formula that has seen ANCA lead the demanding niche of CNC tool and cutter grinders for a half-century.

In its time, the Australia-based global business has made an enormous yet largely hidden contribution to the world, selling over 10,000 5-axis CNC machines to over 2,500 customers. Around 1.1 billion tools have been created using ANCA’s grinders.

“You would be very unlikely to find any bit of advanced equipment, anywhere in the world, that hasn’t been touched by a cutting tool which has been manufactured on one of our machines,” explains co-founder Pat Boland, whose company’s customers include Boeing, Rolls-Royce, Iscar, Sandvik, Sutton Tools and many other household names.

Boland and Pat McCluskey – then an electrical engineer and an industrial electronics tradesman – met at a government-owned munitions factory at Melbourne in 1968. The two Pats started ANCA in 1974 in a spare room at Boland and wife Libby’s home.

“It wasn’t about money in the beginning, and for me it’s not about money now...I get my kicks out of designing new machines,” explains McCluskey. “Even before we started ANCA, Pat and I have always been driven by simply wanting to get machines to do things better. My enduring philosophy in business is if you always do what you’ve always done, you’ll always get what you’ve always gotten. New ideas and new thinking are the basis of our business.”

“If you stand still, then competitors are catching you and you’re in trouble,” McCluskey adds. “We’re always working on new machines and new ideas because that’s the basis of our success. Happily, it’s also what we like doing. Being privately owned brings great benefits as it means we can focus on investing and developing new innovations while maintaining our long-term view of the market to design products with longevity and customer focus.”

ANCA’s highly sophisticated CNC grinding machines are exported around the world, with 98% of its revenue being generated by exports. The ANCA Group also makes associated equipment and software, including robot arms, software, and control systems, and offers automation services and technology to OEM machine builders.

Leading the incredibly demanding tool and cutter market – where nanometre-level details matter – means a reinvestment of roughly a tenth of revenues back into R&D.

A near-obsession with solving customer problems has seen ANCA contribute a collection of world firsts to its industry, including the first probe for digitising tools, first modem for support and diagnostics in a machine, first full and true 3D simulation of the grinding process, and many more.

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Pat McCluskey (left) and Pat Boland.

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Martin U. Ripple, who has been at the helm of ANCA as CEO since November 2022, reflects on the company's enduring legacy. “In all my interactions, I've observed a consistent thread - our customers invariably share fond recollections of their encounters with ANCA dating back to the 70s, 80s, and 90s. It's evident that there's a deep-seated loyalty and trust towards our brand,” he notes.

Deliberately cultivating a local culture in each branch to be close to customers no matter where they were located, ANCA can be proud to be a global enterprise but with local presence with service and application support, as well as a diverse workforce – a melting pot of nationalities contributing their best. ANCA has never shied from a complex problem and is tailoring solutions to meet our customers’ needs, an effective way of keeping our engineers and technical experts excited and engaged – ensuring we remain at the forefront of innovation.

“Operating in a premium segment means we have not merely followed trends but redefined them and looking ahead, the future is exceptionally promising,” states Ripple. “ANCA will maintain its market dominance by continuing to leverage our skills and capabilities, coupled with an entrepreneurial spirit that is strengthened with the next generation entering our ranks. Personally, I find it awe-inspiring to realise that anything machined – from consumer goods to medical equipment, airplanes to cars, phones to mechanical watches and more – has been crafted with ANCA technology.”

Ripple, always keen to uncover the unique elements that sets this business apart, thinks it’s the involvement of family in the business, a fervent passion driving the company forward, and a steadfast

commitment to providing customers with the most innovative products. This blend, according to Ripple, is the essence of ANCA's success and longevity.

Edmund Boland, son of Pat and ANCA CNC Machines’ General Manager, values ANCA’s agility as a privately owned company which enables swift decisions to support ANCA’s people and customers. “ANCA has always endeavoured to stay ahead of the curve, anticipating market trends and delivering cutting-edge solutions which enable our customers to thrive,” he says. “With 50 years of innovation behind us, our product and technology portfolios are perfectly placed to meet the challenges of the future.”

The delivery of technical and practical excellence has required a sharp focus on both vertical integration – creating everything from the machines’ motors to their polymer concrete bases to their sheetmetal canopies – and both trade and universitytaught skillsets. ANCA has trained more than 60 apprentices and established its formal apprenticeship program in 2011. McCluskey enthusiastically wrote the course material for this.

While being very particular with skill and technology development is one way to look at ANCA’s story, Pat Boland also likes to zoom out to a very general view. The ANCA era runs 50 years and counting, touching countless lives, operating in the background.

It’s shorter than but has similarities to the overall story of toolmaking: critical to industrial progress, even if it needs pointing out every now and then.

“For the vast sweep of history, the only evidence of homosapiens and our predecessors are cutting tools,” says Boland.

“And a number of the broad eras of human life are really named after cutting tools. So the stone age, the bronze age, the iron age. What we’re talking about is the technology of cutting tools as much as anything.”

Celebrating a golden achievement across the globe

To mark the occasion of ANCA’s 50th anniversary, the company is hosting a series of open-houses, seminars, events, and attending tradeshows world-wide. As innovation has motivated ANCA throughout the company’s history, new products and developments will be at the centre of the 50th year celebrations.

At global tradeshows and ANCA Open House events, precision manufacturers can experience new hard- and software for micro tool and gear tool manufacturing, edge preparation, closed loop manufacturing and automation.

ANCA’s large and experienced group of engineers and developers is continuously presenting new solutions to meet our customers’ needs. Highest quality tools and lowest cost per part are the guiding principles leading to ground-breaking, real-world innovations. Examples include the new MicroX CNC grinding machine, using nanometre control technology and ANCA Machine Intelligence to produce micro tools of unseen quality, or our AIMS system, the world's first and only autonomous system for tool manufacturing. anca.com

I would like to take the opportunity to personally acknowledge the “Two Pat’s” as they are affectionately known. Having known them both for almost 30 years I have seen the rides they have been on – from growth spurts to impacts from global issues – most of all positive ones. Their journey is one of innovation, marketing, persistence and good management, without a hint of ego. Pat McCluskey’s commitment to skills & training still exists today as does Pat Boland’s commitment to the industry, which saw him have a stint as AMTIL President for a number of years. He was duly recognised by his peers and awarded life membership of AMTIL in 2017. Congratulations to both of them on this terrific achievement.

Regards,

Shane Infanti AMTIL CEO

Turning the Razer

Vekta Automation and SMC sharpen up on the Razer range.

Best described as a customer centric business, Western Australian manufacturing company, Vekta Automation has grown to become one of the most trusted automated machine suppliers for the timber frame and truss industry – both locally and beyond our borders.

In 2007, Mechatronics Engineer (and Vekta Automation Managing Director), Ed Serrano spotted an opportunity in the Razer – a linear saw developed for the timber construction industry. After securing the rights to purchase the Razer and its IP, Serrano set up Vekta Automation from an unpowered shed on his Beckenham property. He worked to improve the functionality and performance of the Razer and to reduce the costs associated with its operation. “We were taking on a failed product with a terrible reputation. Every time one of these machines was built, it was done so at a loss. This was a major challenge for us – to spin that around and change the reputation of our core product. But we did it and it has been a hugely challenging and satisfying process,” Serrano said. In addition to the constant innovation of products, Vekta Automation prioritises developments that promote safety. “This is one of our core values – ensuring that everything we do creates safety for the user.”

Today, this family-owned business manufactures a range of automated equipment for the building industry and has over 100 employees around the globe. In addition, the company’s flagship machine, the Razer, enjoys majority market share in Australia and New Zealand. “We are continuously innovating and developing the Razer, improving the software, and developing the machine’s efficiency and reliability. Our competitors have not been able to replicate this,” explained Serrano.

Resolving industry challenges with the Razer

The Razer enabled automated, accurate and rapid cutting of timber for roofing and walling, “For our customers who supply prefabricated timber roofs and walls, this machine improves safety and enhances operations, making it possible to deliver ready-made timber products to construction sites, faster,” added Serrano.

Chief among the industry challenges that Vekta Automation and the Razer address, is the current labour shortage, and the growing demand for fast turnaround times. “One of the key issues facing our customers is access to labour. There are fewer people willing to work in the manual labour-intensive construction industry,” explained Serrano. This is where the Razer (and Vekta product line) come in, carrying out the material handling jobs that might otherwise require the work of many human hands.

“Another challenge for the industry is material shortages. Timber is becoming harder and harder to get, so being able to optimise the available materials and reduce waste, is a major driving factor for our customers,” Serrano said.

Innovation as a core value

Serrano’s background as a robotics engineer set the foundation for Vekta Automation’s approach to innovation. “We approach industry challenges as an engineering problem, and we set about solving those issues. This is what really keeps bringing our customers back. We’re not stagnant and we’re not replicating what others have done. We invest in R&D and innovation, developing solutions for very specific problems and needs within our industry,” he explained.

A razer-sharp partnership

Key to Vekta Automation’s success has been the company’s partnership with leading global automation specialist, SMC Corporation Australia New Zealand.

Serrano explained that Vekta Automation has worked closely with SMC since the beginning. “We view them as a partner. They’ve always assisted us – from the early days of setting up the business, to the development of new products. It’s important for us to partner with experts who can fill the gaps in our expertise. We can rely on SMC to help us engineer solutions – particularly on the pneumatics applications. Their products are clever and innovative. Their approach to customers makes them stand out and has made us a loyal partner of theirs.”

It's through a focus on standardisation – for example, ensuring a single SMC valve can be used on multiple machines, in multiple applications - that SMC ensures its products deliver simplicity. SMC products are cost effective, readily available, and easy to maintain or repair. “Vekta’s reputation is staked on products that work well and are easy to maintain, and if there’s a problem, they can do a quick turnaround on the repairs and maintenance. We support them, understanding that it’s not about having the latest ‘shiny and new’ tech. It’s about what’s practical for the customer and end user,” said Hofstee.

This partnership is set to continue to benefit the construction industry. Vekta Automation has a pipeline of products that it plans to develop for the industry. “The only way forward for Vekta Automation is to keep innovating,” concluded Ed Serrano. smcworld.com vekta.com.au

Vekta Automation equipment and solutions.

Mark Prince, Sean Edwards, Arun Jameela – Mechanical Fitters.

Swisslog automation trends

Reshoring, software, and expanded AI: key warehouse automation trends for 2024. By Sean Ledbury, Head of Sales and Consulting, Swisslog Australia and New Zealand.

The core issues facing supply chains in 2023 – labour availability, capacity, space availability and resiliency – aren’t going away in 2024. But how supply chain leaders address these challenges continues to evolve. Moving into the new year, we are seeing organisations finding new ways around barriers to automation, increasing their investments in established technologies, and seeking new levels of efficiency and productivity through orchestration and artificial intelligence. Here’s a more detailed look at some of the trends we expect to see this year.

Removing barriers to automation

Smaller and emerging organisations face the same labour, efficiency, and speed challenges as their larger competitors. Yet, they often lack the resources to address these challenges through capital-intensive automation projects, putting them at a competitive disadvantage. In 2024, flexible infrastructure technologies such as mobile robotics and AGVs (Automatic Guided Vehicles) will play a larger role in leveling the playing field. Swisslog’s CarryPick system, for example, is ideal for small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs) because it is fast and cost-effective to implement, delivering significant labour savings, and making easy to scale. For larger companies requiring higher throughputs, Swisslog’s shuttle and grid-based goods-to-person systems come with a potentially larger investment, but can deliver greater returns on a greater scale.

For these organisations that are seeking higher throughputs, standardised configurations of the popular AutoStore system – for which Swisslog is the number one global integrator – will reduce engineering and software customisation costs while delivering the robust functionality that meets the requirements of most applications.

Re-shoring refocuses supply chains on pallet handling

After years of industry focus on automating each picking to support growing e-commerce and omni-channel distribution, pallet handling systems will recapture their share of the spotlight in 2024. That’s partly due to the continued momentum around re-shoring, in which Australian and New Zealand based businesses are recentring their supply chains to improve resiliency. This is driving development of high-bay warehouses that support distribution of palletised products and that will result in increased investment in pallet handling technologies, particularly crane-based and shuttlebased ASRS (Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems).

Solutions based on technologies like the Swisslog Vectura crane and PowerStore maximise space utilisation in high-bay warehouses and deliver proven reliability over decades of service. Supply chains already dependent on pallet ASRS will extend the value of these solutions by investing in lifecycle services that ensure reliability and enable adaptability allowing companies to get more out of what they already have.

AI expands beyond machines

Machine learning, a form of AI, has been instrumental over the past several years in enabling technologies such as robotic item picking to advance to their current state. Now the incredible advances in generative AI that occurred in 2023 are creating new opportunities for AI in the supply chain. Initially, we’re likely to see automation vendors apply generative AI to their training libraries to streamline the development of custom training for their customers. Even higher value will be realised as AI works with warehouse software systems to derive insights from the data-rich warehouse environment. Forecasting, slotting, and sequencing processes all stand to benefit.

Software takes centre stage

As operators increasingly seek to orchestrate people, processes, and technology within the warehouse, they’ll find their ability to execute on this strategy dependent on the software that controls their automation systems.

WMS platforms simply aren’t well positioned to address orchestration challenges as they lack the machine-level view of operations required. That puts the onus on automation integrators to deliver software solutions capable of capturing data at the machine level while providing a holistic view of warehouse operations. Software platforms that provide real-time visibility into the logical and operational level will become even more valuable as AI enables more accurate forecasts and resources can be aligned to execute on those forecasts with the highest efficiency.

Swisslog’s SynQ software, which stands for synchronised intelligence, synchronises people, process, and machines for efficient operations. In addition to being a WMS, it can perform the task of a WCS (Warehouse Control System), or MFS (Material Flow System), and can seamlessly interact with ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) and e-shop systems.

SynQ optimises the storage of goods, placing fast moving goods near the point of dispatch, and slower moving goods towards the back of the storage. What further sets SynQ apart from other software is its ability to ‘click and solve’ directly from the 3D visualisation.

Software like SynQ, more than hardware, then becomes the key enabler of successful automation and operators will increasingly seek out solutions with WCS, WMS and MFS functionality integrated in a common modular platform with a common toolset.

swisslog.com/en-au

Robots in motion

How autonomous robots will take over the materials handling needs of tomorrow, today. Drew Turney takes a trip through the transforming, moving future of industrial environments.

If you weren't aware, autonomous robots (AMRs) moving materials around factory, warehouse and manufacturing floors is a booming business. According to US AMR maker OTTO Motors by Rockwell Automation, it's a billion dollar market today, with market intelligence firm Interact Analysis predicting growth of 30% per year, with the field projected to be worth almost $6bn by 2027.

OTTO Motors' VP of Product Jay Judkowitz says there's an increasing imperative around reshoring manufacturing, and the best method to compete with the low cost overseas manufacturing we've been using for a few decades is automation; what he calls 'more plants in more places with fewer roles per plant, but more production and a greater number of safer and more fulfilling manufacturing jobs in aggregate'.

One of the areas most ripe for savings is in materials handling, with Judkowitz citing research that says it uses about 25% of the workforce, 55% of the floorspace and 87% of the production time in a factory. Showcasing their work in September 2023 at a trade show in Boston, an OTTO Motors company rep said their customers were seeing ROI within just 12 months.

Upward mobility

As with any technology, widespread adoption will lead to increased innovation which will lift the tide overall, a phenomenon we're already seeing.

Research from the University of Washington is enabling robots to identify objects in cluttered spaces just like humans can discern 'object unity' when something's (for instance) partially obscured. There's also a lot of exciting work happening in space. Dr Kimberly Hambuchen at NASA's Johnson Space Centre has been observing AMRs' work in unique circumstances, where communicating with a robot might take anything from a few seconds to an hour while commands and responses are sent between Earth, orbit, the moon, Mars and beyond.

What's more, radio transmissions have much lower bandwidth than the Gigabit Ethernet we're used to on Earth, limiting the amount of data we can transmit and thus the complexity of commands.

Then there are the limitations of spacecraft-borne computer control systems, which don't have comparable processing power of devices on Earth because of the protection they require against the harsh conditions of launch and space travel.

“My work's led to new methods for supervisory control of robotics,” Hambuchen says, “and it's applicable to terrestrial systems because it's a more efficient way of controlling robots that decreases the human operator's workload, giving more decision-making to the robot.”

Of course, spacegoing robots will also give us material and construction advances that could lead to far hardier AMRs on Earth, thanks to research fortifying them against the punishing vibrations of a rocket launch, radiation protection, the accumulation of dust, etc.

The new generation

Material handling robots on factory floors are nothing new, of course – we've had Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) that followed predetermined tracks for decades.

The difference in an AMR is the intelligence that lets it go from 'guided' to 'autonomous'. In AMRs, the compute technologies needed are found in the robot, not just the network, according to Judkowitz.

“AMRs need to quickly perceive, assess and respond to adverse situations, doing their own obstacle avoidance, replanning or remapping without getting confused, lost or creating a safety hazard,” he says.

That means that where AGVs only need a track on the floor and a sensor to follow it, AMR sensor technology might be everything from cameras and radar to Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR), ultrasonic (audio pings outside the frequency of human hearing), infrared and any combination thereof.

And as Michał Kierul, CEO of Poland-based technology developer INTechHouse and a 20 year veteran of software, electronics and mechanics design, explains, those combinations are as variable as the factory you'll find them in.

“Cameras are efficient for visual recognition but might struggle in low-light conditions,” he says. “LIDAR, using lasers to measure distances and create 3D maps, offers accurate depth perception but can be expensive. Radar, akin to LIDAR, uses radio waves, suitable for varying weather conditions. Ultrasonic sensors measure distance using sound waves, useful for proximity sensing.”

OTTO Motors uses a technology called SLAM (simultaneous localisation and mapping) that uses LIDAR to probe the environment with a laser, comparing the readings with a pre-programmed map of its work and letting the robot plot its position in the map accurately.

“The LIDAR hits also tell the robot if there's something in its path that demands a reaction,” says Judkowitz. “[Programming] informs the hardware how close an object is allowed to come to the robot before it must slow down or stop.”

A command system then handles the path planning, decides how and when to reroute, and the navigation software maximises speed and smoothness in the performance envelope dictated by the safety system. The external fleet manager connects to each robot in the network, distributes maps to them, dispatches jobs to the optimal robot, proxies factory integration, manages charging and provides the management interface for the robots themselves.

Safety first

Of course, the first concern everybody should have before letting self-driving robots loose in their factory is safety.

OTTO Motors says their products are themselves addressing safety concerns, with Judkowitz calling materials handling 'a major source of injury, whether due to repetitive stress of manual moves or collisions from manually driven forklifts.'

But how do producers make AMRs themselves safe? Kierul thinks of warehouses like big carparks, with individual units trying to get from A to B. "You have to map the whole warehouse and make sure it always looks the same, coordinate the location data from other robots and ensure laws (like traffic laws) so if two robots meet, they know which one gets right of way."

Steffen Kluth, product manager at CNC Machine provider ANCA, agrees, saying safety is the most important aspect when humans and robots work in the same environment.

“Safety measures that can be implemented so robots and humans can interact safely include sensors that monitor the movements of both robots and humans in the work area, emergency stop switches if a problem occurs and guards that prevent humans from entering movement areas.”

but the same expanded use of sensors in AMRs (LIDAR, visual cameras, sonar, radar, etc.) can also be used for the safety measures. Better still, he mentions both Australian and international standards regulating AMR safety that already exist.

Speaking of standards, plenty of processes in manufacturing operate on accepted standards so robots from one provider can use grippers or effectors from another seamlessly. Will we see similar standards adopted by the effectors on AMRs, opening the field to more cross pollination?

Judkowitz says that despite the industry's size and growth, it's early days, and while players try to differentiate themselves from competitors they'll be advancing their own products (and standards).

But he adds that standards are starting to emerge in some parts of the technology stack (a trend he puts OTTO Motors at the forefront of). “Elements that can be standardised over time are things like communication, map format, traffic management and charging.”

Judkowitz also extols the virtues of open source development as a way of establishing de facto standardisation. “Most AMRs today –including ours – are based on the [open source] Robot Operating System (ROS) platform governed by the Open Source Robotics Foundation. That makes it much easier to build and deploy tools and products adjacent to the AMRs themselves.”

The robotic community

Finally there's the public role in robotic advances. The Department of Industry, Science and Resources is due to release its National Robotics Strategy soon, which will hopefully include incentives for Australian business to develop and adopt robotic automation.

Meanwhile, overseas, NASA is maintaining its standing as an economic enabler, and after its research has given the world everything from freeze dried food to memory foam, Hambuchen says NASA works with private industry in a multitude of ways – just one agreement is with our own Woodside Energy.

"We partner with many companies that have similar goals about robots operating in uncrewed habitats with difficult environments both inside and outside the space industry," she says.

All of which means the rise self-controlling manufacturing materials robot is very much at hand...

OTTOMotors.com ANCA.com industry.gov.au interactanalysis.com

Looking closely from above

How ERP solves quality management challenges in manufacturing. The Vice President of Services in Asia Pacific at SYSPRO, James Robinson, gives an overview of ERP solutions.

In the competitive manufacturing sector, maintaining a high level of quality is essential. Quality Management challenges are omnipresent and manufacturers must navigate these challenges with precision to ensure customer satisfaction, product consistency and compliance with industry standards. Fortunately, technology solutions specialising in running manufacturing businesses can address these challenges head on.

One key challenge is that manufacturers need to be able to oversee all activities and tasks to maintain a desired level of excellence. Quality managers need to have instant access to all the critical information required to track a suspect product, from delivery of raw materials to customer delivery. This is where an ERP system tailored for manufacturing can make a world of difference.

Using their ERP, manufacturers are able to inspect and approve quality at each process throughout the supply chain quickly and effectively. This will help them achieve less variability and improve overall customer satisfaction,

Setting the standards for quality

Manufacturers understand that one-size-fits-all solutions don't work when it comes to Quality Management. Every industry and every business have unique requirements and quality standards. With a specialist ERP solution, manufacturers can set their own quality control parameters, ensuring that they align perfectly with their specific needs and industry regulations.

Whether it's tolerances for dimensional accuracy in automotive manufacturing, chemical composition in pharmaceuticals, or moisture content in food production, an ERP system can be configured to monitor and maintain these standards consistently. The result is reduced product variability, fewer defects and a greater ability to meet customer expectations.

Visibility across the supply chain

Quality Management in manufacturing extends beyond the factory floor. It encompasses the entire supply chain, from the moment raw materials are sourced to the final delivery of the finished product to the customer. An ERP system tailored for manufacturing offers endto-end visibility, allowing quality managers to monitor and control every step of the process.

This level of visibility is essential for identifying potential issues before they become critical problems. For instance, if a shipment of raw materials is found to be subpar, their ERP system can trigger an alert, allowing manufacturers to immediately take corrective action. This proactive approach minimises the chances of substandard products reaching customers and helps maintain the reputation of the brand.

Streamlining quality inspections

In the past, quality inspections in manufacturing were often paper-based and time-consuming. Smart ERP solutions have revolutionised this aspect of Quality Management; with configurable inspections capabilities, manufacturers can now streamline the inspection process, making it more efficient and accurate.

Configurable inspections allow manufacturers to define inspection criteria and checklists that are specific to their products and processes. This means that quality inspectors no longer need to rely on static, generic inspection checklists. Instead, they can use a system that is tailored to their exact requirements. This level of customisation enhances the accuracy of inspections and reduces the likelihood of human error.

Customer complaint management

Customer satisfaction is essential in manufacturing and addressing customer complaints swiftly and effectively is important. An ERP system equipped with customer complaint management capabilities empowers manufacturers to do just that. It allows them to log, track and analyse customer complaints in a systematic manner. When a complaint is logged into the system, it triggers a series of actions. Quality managers can investigate the issue, identify its root cause and implement corrective measures. This not only resolves the immediate customer concern but also prevents similar issues from recurring in the future.

Additionally, a robust ERP system can provide valuable insights by analysing complaint data. By identifying recurring patterns and trends, manufacturers can make proactive changes to their processes and products, further enhancing overall quality and customer satisfaction.

Managing recalls

Recalls are among the most challenging issues a manufacturer can ever face. They can be costly, damaging to reputation and potentially harmful to customers. An ERP system specialising in manufacturing should include recall management functionality, which is essential for responding promptly and effectively to recall situations.

In the event of a recall, time is of the essence. An ERP system can help manufacturers quickly identify affected products, trace their origins and initiate the recall process. This not only ensures regulatory compliance but also minimises the impact on customers and reduces financial losses.

Conclusion

The case is clear for manufacturers that an ERP solution specialising in manufacturing plays a pivotal role in overcoming Quality Management challenges in the industry. They empower manufacturers to set and maintain their own quality standards, achieve consistency and enhance customer satisfaction. With end-to-end visibility, streamlined inspections, customer complaint management and recall capabilities, manufacturers can take proactive steps to address quality issues swiftly and efficiently.

As the manufacturing sector continues to evolve, embracing ERP solutions tailored for Quality Management is not just a choice; it's a strategic imperative. At a time where product quality and customer satisfaction are non-negotiable, a specialist ERP system will ensure manufacturers stay ahead of the curve and maintain their competitive edge. By leveraging the power of ERP, manufacturers can navigate the complex challenge of Quality Management with confidence, resilience and excellence. au.syspro.com

Marsh Mellows

Strong but silent isolators compactly and cleanly solve Industry 4.0, OHS, and machinery reliability issues.

Compression set can become an insidious and chronic problem with metal coil springs supporting and isolating food and beverage vibratory applications. These can include dairy applications, powdered products, liquid-solid separation, and primary processing applications involving vibratory screening process in production, conveying, and packaging. The technical term ‘compression set’ simply means that some springs get tired over their lifetime of hard work and can settle, or set, suffering permanent compression by up to 27% below their original design height. This means they don’t perform to their original specifications.

Compression set can occur in dairy and beverage applications including dewatering and liquid/solid separation, a field where vibrating screens are often utilised to dewater liquids from solids, including animal wastes and production byproducts. Vibrating screens are also used in dairy industries to separate solids from milk particles while curds from whey remain separate. Reliable vibratory processes also help where Industry 4.0 automation programmes increase production speeds and productivity while placing an additional premium on reliability. “Whatever the application, spring wear can make the vibrating equipment the springs support potentially unstable and prone to breakages,” said Simon Agar, General Manager of actuation, isolation, and suspension specialists, Air Springs Supply. “One reason is because spring set doesn’t always happen evenly, and can affect different springs under different parts of machinery to a different extent.”

“One side of a bank of springs may become more worn than another, for example, affecting dynamic stability, imposing uneven loads, and even leading to breakages and production interruptions. The problem is compounded by the springs often being in the most inaccessible parts of machinery where workers have to crawl around in confined spaces, leading to delays and OH&S issues,” he added. One way to alleviate excessive spring set and breakages in a number of applications is by using proven rubber-and-fabric Marsh Mellow™ isolators from Firestone, distributed throughout Australia by Air Springs Supply, which has been a leading Australiawide isolation, actuation, and suspension specialist for more than 40 years.

Dust control

SMC’s New JSXF Series Smartvent Pulse Valve.

In the heavily regulated mining sector, effective dust control systems are key to the prevention of health and safety risks, and equipment damage. “Mines demand energy-efficient dust control systems that can effectively collect dust and other impurities from air or gas,” explained Angus Christian, SMC Global Accounts Manager for the resources sector.

“SMC’s new JSXF Series SmartVent pulse valve delivers higher impact force and reduced air consumption, making it ideal for being used in mining applications.”

A component that ticks all the boxes

Marsh Mellows are in use worldwide in applications such as shaker screens, crushing equipment, vibrating bins, conveyor and other vibrating equipment used in manufacturing, materials handling, and processing, food and beverage, and primary product processing.

“They can’t break, splinter, or fragment like a metal spring. One of their big advantages is that they suffer only a maximum of 7% compression set over the life of the part. This means they can be changed in and out of different sets of springs without upsetting the dynamic balance of the whole set,” said Agar.

High overload capabilities

Marsh Mellow springs’ flexibility also helps eliminate downtime and potential damage to machinery. When a coil spring fails, it will often crack, allowing fragments of the coil to damage equipment and interfere with production flow. This problem is eliminated with the rubber construction of the Marsh Mellows, which exhibit exceptionally high overload characteristics and usually do not fail catastrophically, offering some support even during failure in exceptional circumstances.

More compact and less costly

Marsh Mellows’ ability to maintain a cylindrical shape while supporting greater loads means a smaller overall size can be used compared with an all-rubber spring of identical load capacity. This is important when considering an application with a small design envelope. Marsh Mellow springs’ high load capability also means fewer springs may be needed in an application, resulting in less overall cost. Also, the lateral spring rate of a Marsh Mellow spring can be less than the vertical spring rate, resulting in a lower lateral natural frequency. The low natural frequencies of Marsh Mellow springs mean they provide excellent isolation of forced frequencies in the range of 800-1200 cycles per minute (13-20Hz).

“Because rubber is an incompressible fluid, it will flow to the path of least resistance. This means that, as a Marsh Mellow’s height compresses, the fabric-reinforced rubber plies pantograph and the diameter grows. This supports the rubber core laterally, even at 3040% compression,” says Simon Agar. airsprings.com.au

“Product development and innovation is at the core of SMC’s strategy and sets us apart as a global market leader. We work closely with customers to understand their industry challenges and their needs, so we can offer them top-notch products and solutions,” added Angus.

The new JSXF Series solenoid-type valve is the latest such innovation from the automation machinery manufacturer.

It features a springless robust elastomer diaphragm and optimised internal design. “This design enhances its service life to 10 million or more cycles, while producing faster response times and energy savings,” said Angus. Compared to its predecessor, the JSXF achieves a 45% reduction in OFF response time, and a 40% increase in flow rates. In addition, it offers a 15% increase in peak pressure and a 35% reduction in air consumption.

With its in-built control board, the JSXF doesn’t require a control box, making it more compact and more easily installed. A single base valve can control up to 31 valves, for efficient collective control of response times. “When used in combination with a differential pressure sensor, filter clogging is detected early,” added Angus.

“According to the Reserve Bank of Australia, mining accounts for over 14% of Australia’s GDP. Since its inception, SMC has serviced this essential sector, and we plan to continue evolving with its needs,” concluded Angus. smcanz.com

Hydraulink expansion

Hydraulink trendsetter doubles his commitment to service excellence with new Bayside Brisbane franchise.

One of the pioneers of the Hydraulink hose and fittings organisation in Queensland has backed the success formula of the of the expanding national network by taking up a neighbouring franchise, in the Bayside district of Brisbane. Martin Smith – who has more than tripled the size of his existing distributorship in Brisbane North over the past nine years – has joined with his business partner Andrew Schuler to extend the range of Hydraulink services available to Bayside businesses seeking the same world standards of safety, compliance, cost-efficiency, and operational uptime.

“Brisbane North already has major resources in Brisbane, with a strong engineering home base, established contractors, and a fleet of six vehicles giving 24/7 service. This will be further expanded with more vehicles and resources to back the local knowledge of Hydraulink Bayside’s Andrew Richardson, who is widely respected in the area,” he said. Hydraulink hose and fitting services are used by machinery ranging from forklifts and trucks, through to major civil engineering, primary industry, construction, logistics, manufacturing, warehouse, materials handling, and heavy machinery including tractors, graders, scrapers, bulldozers, diggers, and cranes, including wheeled and tracked equipment. The Hydraulink network – trading under the corporate signature ‘Best Under Pressure’ – now includes 150 service points throughout Australia priding themselves on high ongoing standards of training and product, extensive machinery knowledge, and being able to deliver uniformly high standards of work across single businesses and machines, through to multiple sites and machinery fleets.

Queensland experience

Martin Smith has long Queensland experience with the Hydraulink network and the opportunities for its can-do franchise operators, who are selected for their knowledge, enthusiasm for customer service – and willingness to continuously advance skill sets in a fast-moving area of business. He has worked in association with the Hydraulink network for more than 25 years, establishing the brand in Queensland in 1998 and seeing it grow into a State network extending from Brisbane to Cairns. “Every market we serve is different – the customer bases in Brisbane North and Bayside are very different – but what they all respect is a commitment to service by people who know their machinery and can deliver the same standards of service and supply excellence over a broad spectrum of jobs.

“Compliance, safety, and traceability of work are so important to businesses today, who want the peace of mind of dealing with trusted local people who adhere to national and world standards of quality and cost-efficiency. World standards of work, coupled with strong knowledge of the needs of the local market, has been part of our success formula from day one, and will be extended throughout our Hydraulink Bayside services.” Hydraulink National Franchise Manager Wayne Abbott said Queenslanders such as the clients served by Martin Smith appreciate quality service personnel who can be relied on to do consistently good jobs, first time, at a fair price. “All members of the Hydraulink family of franchise operators – exemplified by Martin – demonstrate deep practical knowledge that engenders confidence and trust that fosters ongoing business relationships of benefit to all involved.”

Hydraulink and Hydraulink CCR have 14 company-owned sites in Australia, 135 network partners, and 150 service vehicles offering 24/7 onsite and mobile services to both smaller individual companies and some of the largest companies in the country. hydralink.com.au

Exploring the Role of ISVs in Industrial Automation

The significance of selecting the right software in our technologically advancing world is paramount. As Patrick van Eybergen of Ti2 explains, businesses navigate the complexities of improving productivity and embracing environmental benefits, the choice between vendor-dependent services and Independent Software Vendors (ISVs) becomes crucial.

1. Definition of an ISV

Unlike vendor-dependent solutions, ISVs are not confined to specific hardware or software integrations, allowing them to develop solutions compatible with various operating systems, databases, and hardware platforms. ISVs range from small startups to large enterprises, offering a diverse array of software solutions tailored to specific industries and business functions.

2. Considerations in Project Design

When initiating new projects, it is essential to consider openstandard fieldbus options, hardware-independent programming environments, and universally supported and secure communication protocols. Utilising open fieldbus standards such as Profibus/ Profinet, EtherNet/IP, DeviceNet, EtherCAT, Modbus (TCP and RTU), IO-Link, and more provides flexibility in vendor selection while ensuring robust features and secure data transmission.

Advantages of Choosing an ISV

1. Customisation

ISVs excel in providing customised software solutions, catering to the unique needs of each customer. In contrast to vendor-dependent services offering off-the-shelf products, ISVs leverage their knowledge and experience to understand specific industry requirements, delivering bespoke platforms for optimised business processes. This collaboration allows businesses to gain a competitive edge by tailoring software solutions to their exact specifications.

2. Programming Standards (IEC61131-3)

Selecting IEC61131-3 compliant programming tools is crucial for seamless transitions between compliant software options, ensuring long-term flexibility. Different programming languages like Ladder Logic, Sequential Flow Charts, and Structured Text cater to varied control requirements, providing adaptability and ease of use. Choosing a hardware vendor-neutral programming environment facilitates cost-effective transitions between PLC vendors, while open standard communication protocols prevent vendor lock-in.

3. Flexibility

Flexibility Unleashed ISVs liberate businesses from the shackles of specific hardware or software platforms, enabling them to cherry-pick the most suitable solutions without constraints. This flexibility fuels growth and adaptation, allowing businesses to scale quickly without overhaul constraints.

4. Expertise

Expertise Amplified Harnessing specialised knowledge, ISVs tackle industry-specific challenges with finesse, enhancing process efficiency and productivity. Their expertise fuels ongoing support and maintenance, ensuring software solutions remain robust and reliable through continuous updates.

5. Competitive Pricing

ISVs provide competitive pricing models, deviating from the license or subscription demands of vendor-dependent services. Flexible pricing options, such as per-user or perdevice models, empower businesses to control costs and avoid expensive long-term contracts. Volume discounts further make software solutions affordable for large-scale deployments, fostering economies of scale.

6. Innovation

ISVs focus on continuous innovation, leveraging the latest technological advances to develop cutting-edge solutions. Unbound by specific hardware or software platforms, ISVs provide businesses with a competitive edge by offering advanced tools and techniques. Collaborating with ISVs ensures access to the latest advancements, keeping businesses ahead of the competition.

7. Security

ISVs prioritise security, adhering to industry standards to safeguard business data and systems. Regular bug fixes and feature updates ensure that software remains secure and reliable over time. ISVs provide valuable advice and best practices for enhancing system and data security, helping businesses mitigate the risk of data breaches.

8. Scalability

ISVs deliver scalable software solutions that evolve with businesses. As companies grow and their needs change, ISVs offer the expertise to ensure software scalability and adaptability. Collaborating with ISVs ensures that software solutions grow alongside operations, free from the constraints of vendor-dependent services.

Conclusion

ISVs emerge as the preferred choice for businesses seeking tailored software solutions, offering advantages in customisation, flexibility, expertise, competitive pricing, innovation, security, and scalability. In the dynamic, technology-driven landscape of today, ISVs play a pivotal role in industries like engineering, providing essential expertise and assistance.

Platforms like CODESYS, with its focus on hardware-neutral environments and comprehensive automation tools, further enhance flexibility and compatibility, enabling businesses to thrive in evolving technological landscapes.

In conclusion, the collaboration with ISVs empowers businesses to secure the bespoke software solutions necessary for success in today's industrial automation landscape. ti2.com.au

Strucket rich

How inventory management system Fishbowl helped a Sunshine Coast based strainer bucket company scale-up to play with the big fish.

It seems like managing inventory in your business should be a straight-forward process, right? Count the items in your warehouse, track their movements, and reorder them when they get low. The reality is anything but simple, as Sunshine Coast founder and CEO of Strucket, Kelly Lavery found out when her business started to expand rapidly. “In the early days of Strucket we would do everything manually. There was often a lot of scrambling and trying to work out exactly where we were at and hoping we had the numbers right,” Lavery said.

“We started with one pallet of stock in a tiny room and it just grew and grew and grew and we discovered that if you don’t have your systems in place, that’s going to be your biggest problem.” The business, originally named Buderim Bucket company, started small back in 2018, but as success with social media took hold, the company grew rapidly and it became obvious that the business needed a better way to take control of stock and the ordering process.

“We realised quite quickly as we were going through that something had to change. We were moving so fast and we didn’t want to slip up and make mistakes so we needed excellent systems put in place and luckily through local community we found Fishbowl and that was the problem solved,” Lavery said.

“We have a lot of clients with a very similar story to this,” added Fishbowl APAC Managing Director Simon Jupe. “Managing inventory involves numerous tasks and components that all need to work in harmony on a continuing basis to produce the desired results. Most

businesses start small and with very manual processes, but to take your business to the next level, you really need to have the right tools and the right automation to help you scale appropriately,” he said.

Fishbowl is an inventory management solution that provides features and functionality for small to enterprise-sized warehousing and manufacturing businesses. Fishbowl performs inventory management tasks such as: Barcoding, Serial number and batch tracking, advanced bill of materials and work orders and has seamless accounting integrations with Intuit QuickBooks Online, Xero, and Reckon Accounts.

“Our software solution provides our clients with granular visibility into their operations, efficiency to streamline and grow, and flexibility to customise today and into the future, all at a fraction of the cost of other ERP systems on the market,” Jupe said.

“Getting set up right from the outset is crucial. Our clients are everything to us and our entire awesome team does everything they can to deliver the best setup, service and business solutions around,” Jupe said.

“Whilst there were quite a few things to figure out when we first implemented Fishbowl, I just love it now because it allows me to have the operational side of the business taken care of. I can access reports and I know where my stock is at all times. This gives me the ability to focus on the product development for Strucket and also the sales and marketing, so that we can continue to sell Strucket worldwide,” Lavery said. fishbowlinventory.com.au strucket.com.au

Payapps compliance

Autodesk signs definitive agreement to acquire Payapps for global payment and compliance management. Jim Lynch, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Autodesk Construction Solutions takes us through the purchase.

The construction industry is undergoing a much-needed and longawaited digital transformation, evolving its paper-based ways of working into an approach where technology is deeply integrated into every stage of a construction project’s lifecycle.

In particular, the payment process is ripe for innovation: general contractors and subcontractors alike struggle with late payments and cash flow constraints on virtually every project. Late payments and non-payments are also a key contributor to many general contractors and subcontractors going bankrupt. Further, it can take an average of 83 days for subcontractors to get paid after putting work in place, and because of the risk, many will not bid on a project if a general contractor or an owner has a reputation for slow payments.

In a big step toward addressing the critical need for a more efficient, transparent, and compliant payment process, I’m excited to announce that Autodesk has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Payapps, a leading global provider of construction payment and compliance management solutions. The acquisition builds off the previous collaboration and strategic alignment between Payapps and Autodesk Construction Cloud, which we announced in 2022.

Known as Payapps in Australia, New Zealand, the U.K. and Ireland, and GCPay in North America, the company’s best-inclass cloud offerings accelerate visibility of payments between project stakeholders and have helped construction teams save nearly 350,000 project hours a year. In North America, Payapps’ GCPay solution also helps general contractors manage the lien waiver exchange process with their trade partners to speed up the payment process.

With this acquisition, Autodesk customers will benefit from leveraging technology that eases the burden of construction payment management in a process that is simpler, faster, and more efficient for all construction project stakeholders. The acquisition further reinforces our belief that how project teams build should be just as rewarding as what they built – and improving processes and workflows is paramount to improving the industry.

I recently caught up with Geoff Tarrant, executive chairman of Payapps, to discuss our shared goals. In that conversation, Geoff captured it well: “Payapps and Autodesk share a common mission of helping our customers increase profitability through cost efficiencies and reduce risks wherever possible. With Payapps becoming part of Autodesk, our customers will get to experience the technology benefits of both companies as we continue our journey to help construction companies improve their payment management processes.”

Reimagining the construction payment process

With our prospective entry into providing payment management solutions, we will be fulfilling a long-standing need in the construction industry that remains largely unanswered by other technology providers. By expanding the breadth of Autodesk Construction Cloud to include payment and compliance management, Autodesk will continue to build out an extensive Design and Make Platform and bring general contractors and subcontractors a new level of visibility during payment processes. With Payapps, it’s a challenge we’re well-positioned to resolve – and our customers agree.

Andy Burg, Vice President, Operations Technology Solutions, Messer Construction Co., an ENR top-100 general contractor with $1.4bn in revenue, and mutual Autodesk and Payapps/ GCPay customer shared, “Messer Construction has utilised GCPay

for the past eight years to facilitate our subcontract pay request process. This user-friendly and intuitive application provided improved controls, data accuracy, and process efficiency, which were essential for our project teams and trade partners. Since standardizing on Autodesk Build nearly three years ago, we have continued streamlining project workflows across construction stakeholders. This acquisition will further enable us to simplify our workflows and improve the efficiency of project execution.”

Brett Mason, CEO of Built, another mutual customer and leading contractor in Australia added, “We are excited by the combination of Payapps and Autodesk. Payapps has been an international success story in developing a market-leading construction payment application solution. The acquisition by Autodesk, a global leader in construction and design software, is highly complementary and further enhances and extends their best-in-class platform.”

With payment and compliance management solutions integrated into Autodesk Construction Cloud, our construction customers, including general contractors and subcontractors, will be able to spend less time worrying about payment risk and the tedium of the payment cycles and more time focusing on growing their business. autodesk.com payapps.com built.com.au

NCG CAM v19

Not just another CAM software.

NCG CAM is not so well known in Australia but quite a few in Australia have heard of Machining Strategist. NCG CAM has the same origin as Machining Strategist in the UK when it was developed and marketed by NC Graphics. NCG CAM is now, since 12 years, developed and marketed by NCG CAM Solutions Ltd just outside Cambridge in the UK. In Australia NCG CAM is sold and supported by Camplex Pty Ltd. It is a very much improved version of the old Machining Strategist software. Many improvements and new features have been introduced roughing, finishing strategies, rest milling and tool simulation. NCG CAM V19.0 introduced 2-axis turning as part of its 3-axis milling and will soon support Turn/Mill machines that are becoming very popular in machine shops. NCG CAM can also program 4 & 5-axis machines with full machine simulation included with the post-processor. Apart from standard 5-axis milling operations you can automatically convert 3-axis toolpaths with full gauge protection. NCG CAM v19 is noted for its user-friendly interface and robust capabilities. Whether you are a seasoned CAM specialist or a beginner to the sector, this software delivers a range of functionality to satisfy your most experienced CAM programmer. NCG CAM has an intuitive interface and is very easy-to-use. NCG CAM excels in surface finish and processing speed even on large parts. All toolpaths are fully gauge protected against tool and tool holder. To fully verify the toolpaths several simulation features are included as part the milling strategy.

Customisable post-processors: NCG CAM v19 allows users to easily tailor post-processors to the unique requirements of their CNC machines, assuring compatibility and efficiency.

Optimized Cutting Strategies: Users can take advantage of adaptive roughing, rest machining, and other intelligent toolpath methods to enhance tool life and minimize production costs.

Tool Library and Management: NCG CAM v19 provides a comprehensive tool library that streamlines tool selection and management.

Automated Setup Sheets: NCG CAM automatically generates detailed setup sheets in Microsoft Excel. In fact, it uses Excel templates that can be configured to suit.

In summary, NCG CAM is worth having a look at for its performance and price. camplex.com.au

MCHND

MCHND machines in CAD/CAM and CNC in ADL.

MCHND is a South Australian engineering workshop focused on precision machining using 3D CAD/CAM software and multi axis CNC machines. The team at MCHND are dedicated to creating intricate components for the exacting demands of space, medical, aerospace, and defence sectors. MCHND is based in Richmond, an inner west suburb of Adelaide, South Australia.

Business partners Jimmy Jolly and Mike Harding admit they work well together. They completed the last half of their toolmaking apprenticeships together at the same company and their friendship flourished. “We are both very different people, but our work ethic is the same,” says Jimmy. “We push each other and get along quite well. It has been a fruitful partnership, something that has been extremely successful for both of us.”

Mike’s career spans a few diverse industries including a threeyear tenure in the UK’s Formula One sector. He has honed a comprehensive skill set encompassing CAD design, 5-axis CAM machining, 9-axis multitasking machining, manual machining, and astute business management.

Jimmy was brought up in an engineering family. His father was a Toolmaker with his own machining business, building historic racing motorcycle engines as well as general engineering on their farm in the Adelaide Hills. After completing his Toolmaking apprenticeship, Jimmy spent 10 years in Melbourne as a machinist gaining expertise in multi-tasking, multi axis machining and CAD design.

Mike and Jimmy had their own ‘after-hours’ small businesses making aftermarket cycling and motorsport components. This involved hiring third-party CNC machines to make these parts so in 2015 a decision was made to change the way they manufactured their own products.

“We decided we should buy a couple of our own CNC machines to make these parts, so we did and put them in my garden shed. I don't think we ever set out to be a job shop,” Jimmy explained. But at the same time, he said it was an easy transition from having a couple of machines in the shed making our own products to doing paid jobbing work.

After a two-year tenure part-time, Mike and Jimmy decided to move MCHND out of the garden shed and into a dedicated factory, committing to the venture full-time.

Since the start of 2019, MCHND has expanded their repertoire from basic CNC milling and turning, to automated 3-, 4- and 5-axis machining, automated multi-axis mill/turning, laser engraving, quality reporting and recently adding an in-house anodising and chemical conversion line. All this is run under their ISO9001:2015 quality system gained in 2021.

Yes, Robots

Having barfed lathes, it was concerning the team that their mills weren’t being used to their full potential. “We had a production job come up that warranted us investing in a robot to feed our two new OKUMA GENOS M450-5AX and a GENOS M560V mills and it was a complete gamechanger,” explained Jimmy. “We now have two new OKUMAs, 4- and 5-axis vertical machining centres being run by robots. We are getting continual run cycles on both machines, plus the ability to run jobbing work during the day and production at night.”

The MCHND duo have recently been heavily investing in tooling up their pallets so that they can now easily be setup for 3-, 4- and 5-axis short run production jobs using multiple 5-axis vices, fixtures, and chucks. Now with a solid, highly skilled, and dedicated team of five engineers, they have achieved this goal. “When we put the robot in,” Jimmy went on to explain, “it’s like we gained one and

a half machines. Initially, we were spreading this job over three machines. With the robot, we didn't need the extra machine. So that machine is now available for additional jobs during the day. On top of this, we're getting another full day of jobbing work on the 5-axis machine. It’s awesome!”.

To reduce the changeover time, the team have tooled up their jobbing pallets with ten dedicated 5-axis vices and four modular precision vices supplied by SEI Australia. “We did a run of just ten parts on five vices the other day,” said Mike. “It’s all super easy to set up. The changeover on the pallets is maybe a few minutes. All the offsets are already set, and the pallets are stored as a template in our CAM System. It takes all that manual labour out of the

equation. It's amazing for production, and great for jobbing work as well. Jimmy and I ask ourselves how we went all these years without a robot?” Jimmy presses the point that a robot can be the equivalent of two to three people manually loading machines. This mundane labour is something the team have been trying to reduce. While it is a big investment, when the robot cell is kept busy, there is a good payoff.

Final frontier

MCHND has had a healthy relationship with Australia’s local space sector. Around 80% of their workload is space-related, be it with satellite chassis, solar array components, steering and navigational system componentry, ground modules and much more.

“With cutting-edge machinery our highly skilled machinists relish the challenges some of these intricate parts present. I reckon it’s evidence that our team’s skills have earned us such a great reputation with some amazing space technology companies,” said Jimmy. “Anything in that industry, we’re keen to get involved in.”

MCHND have just started sponsoring the ARES rocket team by providing them with all their machined components for the Space Port America Cup 2024 competition. “We also want to see the developing local rocket industry thrive so anything we can do to accelerate the skills and knowledge base here in Australia is a good thing,” said Jimmy.

Automation

“When you come into work in the morning and you have machines still running from the previous day and making good parts, it doesn't get any better than that,” says Mike. “It’s great to be backed up by suppliers like Automated Solutions Australia with their robot cell and Okuma with their machines, they just run faultlessly, it's just incredible.” “As machinists we have had a great working relationship with Okuma for the last 15 years. As customers now, it has been so easy working with Okuma, the machines speak for themselves and

the customer service is second to none, it’s no surprise to see their continual growth as the best machine tool supplier in Australia.”

“Okuma and ASA have had a long-standing relationship together and integrating the Fanuc robot to the two Okuma mills was seamless. A credit to Pat Green, Director at ASA and his fantastic team, so easy to work with and the cell has run like a dream from the word go.”

“We have had strong growth every year since we started, this last year in particular has been extremely busy, and things are still very positive work wise. New enquiries have gone up and we have a good amount of work from our repeat customers.”

“Some of the onshoring of work we saw during COVID has abated but there is still quite a strong demand for locally manufactured items. This gives us confidence to keep investing in new equipment and staff…. And more robots!” mchnd.com okumaaustralia.com.au automatedsolutions.com.au

Applying a power cut machining strategy

Carbide end mills enable 30% increase in cutting speed, helping new machining strategy.

Machine shops always seek to enhance productivity, improve efficiency, and cut costs driven by market demands and the constant push to stay competitive. Solid carbide end mills for roughing are one solution to these needs, but many existing tools on the market show limitations in performance — both in tool life, productivity and process security. Here, Antti Wikström, Global Product Manager for Solid End Mills — Roughing at Sandvik Coromant, explains how its CoroMill® Plura HD solid carbide end mill can overcome these shortcomings, with more predictable and reliable performance.

The Financial Times has identified inflation and the Ukraine war as major factors that have caused rising energy and raw material prices, including for steel. These escalating costs pose a significant obstacle for manufacturers in terms of achieving a low cost-perpart, and directly impact manufacturers' profitability. How can manufacturers be overcoming these obstacles in their machining applications, while meeting market demands and staying competitive?

One solution is by applying a power cut machining strategy, which has emerged as a highly effective approach for roughing operations. Such a strategy ensures efficient metal removal rates and excellent process security. With an effective power cut strategy, manufacturers can optimize roughing operations, boosting productivity and reducing cycle times.

But how should a power cut strategy be applied? Put simply, the method is similar to high feed side milling (HFSM) but with a larger radial width of cut, still benefiting from a controlled engagement and tool load. To be performed successfully, the method entails a constant high radial engagement and smooth motions during machining — both of which contribute towards enhanced process security, tool life and productivity.

Other strategies

Before we look at the power cut strategy, let’s briefly examine two conventional options for roughing. First, there is the picture frame strategy, an old roughing strategy with an inefficient tool path.

Benefits of a picture frame strategy include not needing to update NC programs and that the programs are small, which is beneficial for old machines with limited memory and processing capabilities. Disadvantages include not being able to utilize the full potential of the cutting tool on the “easy parts” of the tool path, and overloading the cutting tool — in the corners, for example. The result is poor from all aspects of machining performance (tool life, productivity, process security, quality of the machined part and machine tool wear/maintenance).

Next is the aforementioned HFSM strategy, an efficient and high performing strategy that utilises the full performance of the tool with high process security and tool life. HSFM tools normally have a very high density of teeth, which is very beneficial for tool life as well as productivity when machining with small radial engagement. Small radial engagement also allows for a very high axial depth of cut. However - these tools are not suitable at all for larger radial engagements and, even if they are applied with shorter axial depth of cut, will break. If a Double Depth of Cut (2xDC), or less, is needed then a power cut strategy becomes more efficient.

However, tools designed for larger engagements are necessary to achieve this. That is why Sandvik Coromant’s engineers sought to develop an optimized and effective solid carbide end mill that would excel in this area. The result was CoroMill® Plura HD and now the next generation is launched with two new grades.

Higher metal removal rates

CoroMill® Plura HD is offered in two different grades and coatings, and both have been upgraded. One of the new grades is P2BM for steel; the other new grade is M2CM for stainless. The larger radial engagement allows for higher material removal rates (MRR) than HFS in applications, and this advantage can be achieved up to 2xDC The result? Increased material removal in a single pass. For the new grades Sandvik Coromant’s R&D specialists have created new coatings for solid carbide end mills that can improve tool life at the same time as cutting speeds are increased.

The new coating technology is called Zertivo™ 2.0 and offers better resistance to heat and abrasive wear without compromising on toughness. In short, the Zertivo™ 2.0 coatings contribute by offering a very resilient cutting edge. Both versions of CoroMill® Plura HD, the P2BM and M2CM grade variants, use the Zertivo 2.0 technology.

A power cut strategy allows for 70-90% radial engagement, enabling around 10 passes at once compared to a HFSM strategy, since HFSM typically employs a radial engagement of 5-10% of the tool diameter. However, it is worth noting that HFSM can be used with very large axial depth of cuts, whereas the power cut strategy has a limit of two times the cutter diameter for axial depth of cut.

By using the power cut strategy within its working area, which extends up to two-times the cutter diameter, manufacturers can achieve high metal removal rates while maintaining process stability. The controlled engagement and load ensure the stability of the cutting process, reducing the risk of tool breakage or other issues.

Performance tests

CoroMill® Plura HD and Zertivo™ 2.0 were assessed in extensive performance tests against competitor’s solid carbide end mills. One out of many cases where Plura HD has proven its performance is in slot milling a 1.4404 (316L) stainless steel ISO-M component. The M2CM grade CoroMill® Plura HD and competitor’s end mill were run at the same machining parameters: a cutting speed (Vc) of 90 m/min, feed per tooth (fz) of 0.05 mm/tooth, radial width of cut (ae) of 10 mm and axial depth of cut (ap) of 5 mm. In the end, CoroMill® Plura HD exhibited a +65% tool life increase over the competing solid carbide end mill.

Another example is where the P2BM CoroMill Plura HD end mill was put to work against another competing tool on a SS1672 (C45) 160 HB steel ISO-P component, this time to perform the heavy machining application of dry shoulder milling. The following cutting parameters were used: a Vc of 235 m/min, fez of 0.1 mm/tooth, ae of 7.5 mm and ap of 5 mm. In that instance, the P2BM grade CoroMill® Plura HD exhibited a tool life increase of +150%.

The performance advantages of CoroMill® Plura HD and Zertivo™ 2.0 are especially beneficial for machine shops in all sectors that are looking to manufacture products more easily, efficiently, and costeffectively. The standard assortment offers diameters from 2–25 mm, a 2×D depth of cut, 4 to 5 teeth and a ramping angle of 5° or 7°. Overall, the Sandvik Coromant tool was found to achieve a 30% improved tool life and 30% improved productivity, at the same time. This was achieved both for the new stainless steel tools in ISO-M machining and for the steel tools in ISO-P machining. It should be noted that these results were accomplished without applying

strategy improvements, such as a power cut strategy that would optimize the performance even further.

Multiplied performance

In conclusion, Sandvik Coromant's CoroMill® Plura HD solid carbide end mill is a strong performing tool that brings large performance improvements also in less favorable operations. The end mill contributes to large improvements both in tool life and in productivity versus competing tools. With its Zertivo™ 2.0 coating, the product family improves process security, tool life and productivity versus old generation grades and competing tools. That said, CoroMill® Plura HD’s performance can be lifted even higher by applying a power cut strategy. This can improve process security, tool life and productivity even further. By adding a power cut strategy, CoroMill® Plura HD’s performance will be multiplied again. sandvik.coromant.com

The power of transformation

Digital transformation within the supply chain industry has been accelerated as a result of the pandemic, with many companies undergoing impactful changes.

KNAPP Australia is proud to see many of our clients grow and succeed as they tackle the ‘new normal’ post the pandemic, with one of them being the world’s biggest beauty company L’Oreal.

KNAPP Australia has helped the beauty giant go through transformative changes after automating their pick and pack services at the Melbourne distribution centre. The investment in e-commerce has seen L’Oreal sail through the pandemic relatively unscathed, with its Dandenong facility operating 24/7.

“Our OSR Shuttle Evo solution with ergonomically designed work stations for pick and pack helps companies like L’Oreal process and dispatch orders more quickly, and expand business,” KNAPP Australia Managing Director Micahel Kemeny says.

“Ideal for e-commerce, micro fulfillment and omnichannel distribution, our OSR Shuttle Evo streamlines the logistics processes within the warehouse, creating precise sequences and storing stock and overstock in one location. The most important thing for us is to understand our customers because as a company and with our values we want to partner with the industry.

“Knapp is a value chain tech partner; we partner with our customers to transfer their supply chain into a value chain. Innovation, such as at the L’Oreal warehouse, is a prime example,” he adds.

From medicine to shirts, perfume, eggs and bulk material, Knapp’s warehouse shuttle system is ideally suited for the efficient storage and handling of a diverse range of goods. knapp.com

Helical Motion

ISCAR describes the HELIMILL milestone in milling tools.

The introduction of the ISCAR HELIMILL in the 1990s marked a significant milestone in milling tools. It revolutionised the design of milling tools with indexable inserts, establishing a new approach that would shape the industry for years to come. This breakthrough was achieved using a parallelogram-shaped carbide insert, featuring a helical cutting edge formed by the intersection of the insert's helical side and shaped top surfaces (Fig. 1). The HELIMILL concept offers several advantages.

Firstly, the consistency of the rake and relief angles along the insert’s cutting edge, when mounted on a tool, reduces cutting force variations, and ensures a smooth cutting action. Secondly, the uniformity of the insert’s cutting wedge enhances its strength. Lastly, the helical cutting edge's proximity to the imaginary cylinder generated by a rotating tool improves accuracy compared to the straight edge found in previous generation milling inserts. These advancements have elevated milling performance to new heights. Over the years, continuous improvement has led to significant changes in the classical HELIMILL inserts. The helix of the cutting edge has become more aggressive, and the top surface topology has become more intricate. Combined with advanced carbide grades, these new designs have ushered in a new level of performance. However, the parallelogram insert shape limits the number of indexable cutting edges to two.

To maximise the efficiency of cemented carbides, a new round of insert development was initiated. The successful adaptation of the helical cutting edge to triangular inserts addressed this limitation. The triangular insert concept not only provides three cutting edges but also offers additional benefits. When compared to other shapes

with equal cutting-edge length, the triangular shape provides a wider central area. This allows for an increase in the central bore size, enabling the use of a clamping screw with a larger thread. As a result, the insert securing is strengthened, contributing to the overall durability of the milling tool assembly. Additionally, the triangular shape enhances the ramping-down cutting capability.

Overall, the introduction of the ISCAR HELIMILL and its subsequent advancements have revolutionised the milling tool industry. The use of helical cutting edges and triangular inserts has significantly improved performance, accuracy, and durability, pushing milling capabilities to new levels.

A proximate successor to the HELIMILL is the HELI-3-MILL, a family of milling tools introduced by ISCAR in the last decade, featuring triangular indexable inserts (Fig. 2). The advantages of the ‘helical triangle’ highlight why this family has gained popularity in the market. However, it is important to note that this does not mean the triangle shape will completely replace the traditional parallelogram contour with helical cutting edges soon. The parallelogram shape still possesses its own competitive edge.

Paradoxically, the narrow width of the parallelogram-shaped insert, which is considered a drawback when compared to the triangular shape, also offers certain advantages. Firstly, a narrower insert allows for an indexable design suitable for smaller tool diameters. Secondly, this insert geometry reduces the depth of the chip gullet, strengthening the cross-section of the tool body. This feature is particularly important for extended flute cutter designs where higher strength and rigidity of the body are crucial. The parallelogram insert structure also permits increased corner radii. Additionally, the

Fig 1: A typical HELIMILL insert: a helical cutting edge is formed by the intersection between the helical side and the shaped top surfaces of the insert.

chips, allowing for tool designs with smaller chip gullets and higher tooth density. Taking these factors into consideration, ISCAR has expanded its HELI2000 family (the latest version of the HELIMILL) by introducing new tools that incorporate the high-pressure cooling (HPC) option within the tool body. The design of these tools has been optimised using computational fluid dynamics (CFD). They are available in both integral-body configuration and as relatively small-sized exchangeable heads with indexable inserts, which are compatible with ISCAR's modular systems MULTI-MASTER and FLEXFIT (Fig. 3).

classical shape is well-suited for high feed milling (HFM) inserts, which can be mounted in existing pockets, effectively transforming a 90-degree tool into an efficient HFM cutter. Moreover, the ‘helical parallelogram’ has a smaller overall length compared to the ‘helical triangle’ for the same cutting length. Therefore, it would be premature and incorrect to dismiss classical parallelogram inserts.

As a result, the development of 90-degree indexable milling cutters harmoniously combines both approaches, utilising both triangular and parallelogram-shaped inserts. While the triangular insert concept dominates modern designs, the parallelogram insert principle remains relevant. The HELIMILL platform continues to be updated with new advantageous products. ISCAR's recently developed products related to milling cutters with parallelogramshaped inserts demonstrate that the traditional design approach remains effective and capable of meeting the demands of modern manufacturing. Milling high-temperature superalloys and titanium (ISO S group of applications), as well as difficult-to-cut austenitic and duplex stainless steel (ISO M group), present challenges. Effective coolant supply, particularly pinpointed high-pressure cooling (HPC), can significantly reduce heat load on the cutting edge, enhancing lubrication and chip removal.

This, in turn, leads to higher cutting data and enables larger radial engagements, resulting in a higher metal removal rate (MRR). Moreover, HPC facilitates the production of tighter and curled

HELI2000 integrates the HELIMILL and HELIPLUS families, combining their latest developments into a single portfolio. This includes the introduction of two new highly efficient carbide grades: IC5600, designed for machining steel (ISO P group), and IC716, specifically tailored for cutting titanium. Additionally, the insert range has been expanded with new cutting geometries. This includes inserts with a high positive chipformer for milling titanium, chipsplitting cutting edges for productive roughing, and other designs. Furthermore, the range now includes inserts with reinforced cutting edges for high feed milling of hard materials up to HRC 60 hardness (ISO H group, Fig. 4).

These new products are also part of ISCAR's HELIALU family, which consists of milling tools with parallelogram-shaped inserts for machining aluminum alloys (ISO N group). The expansion of this family includes indexable endmill heads with threaded adaptations for both MULTI-MASTER and FLEXFIT systems, providing the option for high-pressure cooling (HPC). The screw-in design configuration of the heads significantly enhances the customization capabilities of HELIALU tools, allowing for a wide range of MULTI-MASTER and FLEXFIT shanks, adaptors, extensions, and reducers to be utilised. Therefore, the development of the ‘helical parallelogram’ has not ceased, and the traditional HELIMILL continues to gain momentum. This development follows a gradual upward helix, revisiting past turns but at a more advanced stage, much like in dialectics. iscar.com.au

Fig 4: An insert for high feed milling is mounted in the existing pocket of a milling tool.

Fig 2: A HELI-3-MILL face milling tool with triangular inserts. The insert provides already three indexable helical cutting edges.

Fig 3: n exchangeable milling head carrying rectangular-shaped inserts with HPC option. Decreasing chip gullet enables increasing tooth density.

Export Finance

How IND Technology is taking on the world.

For many Australian manufacturers, export is a natural part of their expansion strategy. Every year, thousands of Australian businesses successfully export their products and services to global markets. But first, they need to have the right finance arrangements in place.

Finance can play a part in every step of the export journey. A business might borrow to purchase new assets or to pay suppliers as they ramp up production to deliver contracts to larger markets. They may require finance to cover the many costs of entering new markets, including marketing, investing in e-commerce solutions, or setting up new offices or warehouses overseas. Some buyers may require a bond or guarantee from an exporter before they can do business with them.

For Victorian manufacturing and technology business, IND Technology, securing the right finance helped it cover its working capital needs – which in turn enabled it to fulfil multiple orders from North American companies. With the right finance from Export Finance Australia, the business grew by a compound annual growth rate of 75% over two years from 2022.

Taking Australian ingenuity global

From its humble beginnings in a small Victorian storage shed, IND Technology had enormous potential. The business was formed to manufacture and sell Founder and CEO Alan Wong’s revolutionary early fault detection (EFD®) technology.

EFD® was designed to help utility companies and asset holders predict and locate electrical faults before they occur by monitoring electricity grids. Early detection can help companies identify and fix defects in the system before they turn into major power outages that disrupt the power supply to homes, businesses, utilities and communication systems. It can also help avoid electrical faults that can spark devastating wildfires.

The extraordinary potential of EFD® drew the attention of a major Californian utility company that was searching for a tech solution that could help it identify system faults in electricity grids.

“The Californian utility was looking for an innovative way to prevent fires,” said Andrew Walsh, Chief Operating Officer at IND Technology. “That’s exactly what our technology offers – it works like a check engine light in the car to let you know there’s a problem before the engine stops working.”

Finance made global expansion possible

After winning some large contracts throughout North America, IND Technology realised it would need finance to help fund the gap in its payment cycle while manufacturing and delivering its large orders. After finding out about Export Finance Australia, the business approached the team for a loan.

“The process of working with Export Finance Australia was very professional,” said Kok Wai Leu, Co-founder and CFO. “It was the same as a commercial bank evaluation process. We just had to do projections and make sure that we were able to justify our need for financing.”

Since its first foray into international markets in 2019, IND Technology now provides its EFD® technology to large utility companies across Australia, the USA and Canada. To serve its international customers, it also has expanded beyond its Victorian headquarters and manufacturing facilities, setting up offices in New York and Kuala Lumpur.

Solutions for a range of business export needs

Export Finance Australia has a range of finance solutions to help Australian businesses take on the world and succeed internationally. From small and medium-sized enterprises to large corporations, it helps businesses from a range of sectors.

Every business has unique needs. That’s why Export Finance Australia provides different finance solutions, including loans, bonds, guarantees and project and structured finance. These could help your business:

• manage working capital to assist with day-to-day operations

• establish a presence in an international market through offshore or onshore direct investment

• with pre-shipment finance to assist in sourcing and manufacturing

• cover capital expenditure

• provide a buyer with security, protect them from loss, or give them assurance

• secure or fulfil a contract with an overseas buyer or as part of an export supply chain

• develop marketing to promote goods and services in new markets

• build an online presence for international audiences.

Be part of something big

IND Technology is part of a proud tradition of Australian innovations

– including the electric drill, black box flight recorders, cochlear implants and Wi-Fi. Export Finance Australia is helping ensure this tradition continues, by helping innovative businesses access the finance they need to expand globally.

Find out more

Learn more about how Export Finance Australia is supporting Australian manufacturing businesses to export their goods and services to the world.

1800 093 724 exportfinance.gov.au/manufacturing

DECO 500

Solar energy installation at Minto facility solidifies DECO’s commitment to sustainability.

DECO Australia, the family-owned Australian manufacturer of timber-look aluminium building products, proudly announces the successful completion of the company’s solar panel installation project at its manufacturing facility in Minto, Southwest Sydney.

The addition of over 950 solar panels further solidifies DECO's commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability. The newly installed solar panels will bring DECO’s total solar energy capability to over 500 kilowatts and will provide enough energy to power approximately 60% of the company’s operations. That’s equivalent to powering approximately 100 average-size homes per year or planting over 10,000 trees.

“DECO has always been committed to improving our carbon footprint and we are thrilled to further invest in our renewable energy program through the installation of these additional solar panels,” said Richard Hamber, general manager of DECO Australia. The additional 400 kilowatts generated by the new solar panels will specifically contribute to powering two of DECO's largest production lines, resulting in a substantial reduction in the company's overall carbon emissions. This initiative aligns with DECO's dedication to providing cleaner, greener building materials, addressing the growing demand from specifiers, builders, and endusers for sustainable products. “Reducing environmental impact is a strategic focus for DECO and we understand that it aligns with our customers’ priorities too. Manufacturing lower carbon products is not merely a preference; it has become a necessity for those specifiers, builders and homeowners who are making conscious decisions to source greener building materials and products for their projects,” said Hamber.

This latest sustainability initiative from DECO represents a significant investment for the company and showcases their commitment to a cleaner industry. With ever changing building codes, such as the introduction of the NSW Government’s ‘BASIX Material Index’ in October this year, DECO remains committed to reducing the embodied carbon of their building materials and supporting the industry’s transition to greener practices.

DECO's sustainability efforts extend beyond energy initiatives. In June 2023, the company became the first building products manufacturer to transition to LocAl Green lower carbon aluminium across all its extruded products supplied by Capral Aluminium, significantly reducing CO2e emissions. decorativeimaging.com.au capral.com.au

Aldus Engineering chooses Mazak

Aldus Engineering have chosen to invest in Mazak again, a Quick Turn 200MSY.

Apart from the high performance, productivity and precision of Mazak machines, Aldus Engineering’s decision to invest in another Mazak was heavily influenced by the applications and service support behind each Mazak machine delivered by John Hart. John Hart has a thorough understanding of the importance of providing timely, reliable and skilled support. That’s why the company boasts an Australia-wide Mazak service network with a team of highly experienced and qualified application, mechanical and electrical engineers, and a comprehensively stocked Mazak Spare Parts Department, enabling John Hart to provide the best overall support of any machine tool company in Australia. John Hart engineers also have a thorough understanding of the unique applications of machine tools and technologies required to process various components from titanium, heat-resistant super alloys, aluminium, or stainless steels. John Hart engineers are available to discuss specific part challenges and how Mazak technologies make machining these complex parts easier and more efficient.

The latest Mazak addition

The Mazak Quick Turn 200MSY CNC turning centre with multi-tasking capability brings together advanced technology, productivity, and value to deliver exceptional performance. As an (MSY) configuration, this machine offers the greatest versatility available in the Mazak Quick Turn series, featuring milling capability and Y-axis functionality as well as a second turning spindle to process parts in DONE IN ONE operations. The Mazak Quick Turn 200MSY is equipped with the SmoothG CNC that features MAZATROL conversational programming, complete with monitoring and diagnostics, and EIA-ISO programming.

Aldus Engineering’s decision to invest in the Mazak Quick Turn 200MSY was heavily influenced by the applications and service support behind each Mazak machine delivered by John Hart.

The first Mazak

The first Mazak invested in by Aldus Engineering was the next generation simultaneous 5-axis vertical machining centrethe Mazak Variaxis C-600. The Mazak Variaxis C-600 uses rigid C-frame construction, a standard 60-tool changer, dual-supported tilting table and fast rapid traverse rates to reduce cycle times on demanding jobs. The Mazak Variaxis C-600 is equipped with SmoothAi CNC, Mazak’s new artificial intelligence control, which has in-built learning capability to continually improve machine performance.

Well-equipped for any challenge

Based in Heidelberg West in Victoria, Aldus Engineering, previously Kewder Engineering, is a leading provider of precision engineering services and CNC machining solutions for the automotive, defence, and food processing industries. With a team of over 30 highly skilled employees, a 35,000-square-foot factory, over three decades of expertise, cutting-edge CNC technology and unparalleled support from John Hart, Aldus Engineering is well-equipped to handle any precision engineering challenge. johnhart.com.au aldusengineering.com.au

IBROX Engineering making an impact

Heidelberg West engineering company founded by husband and wife team Derek and Natasha Warrington just twelve months ago is already making an impact and growing rapidly in contract engineering.

IBROX Engineering is headed up by Derek Warrington, a man widely known for fast and reliable quality engineering output and on time delivery. With more than 36 years’ experience, Derek is respected as one of the most talented CNC programmer/setters and CAM programmers as well as being known as one of the most hardworking tool makers and fitter and turner operators in the industry. The unusual name of the new company comes from Derek’s proud Scottish heritage and a passion for the Glasgow Rangers with the name IBROX coming from the home stadium of the Glasgow Rangers.

Owner operator, Derek Warrington’s introduction to the industry started at the tender age of just 10 years, working in his father’s engineering shop at weekends. Under a watchful eye and standing on an upturned milk crate to reach the controls, he gained his first machining experience. Commencing full time at the age of just 14 years Derek worked for more than 36 years in the business which ultimately became the largest privately owned Okuma precision engineering shop in the Southern Hemisphere. It is here that he gained the highest level and wide-ranging experience on lathes, milling machines, 4- and 5- axis multi-task machining centres and robotics. Over the years Derek became highly competent in programming and operating all the machines on the shop floor and the supporting robotics.

The forty plus year long standing family experience and relationship with leading precision machine supplier Okuma continues from day one with the new company establishing a strong line-up of Okuma machines including two Okuma CNC Lathe models LB4000EXII-BMYC and Genos L2000-e(Mx380) and an Okuma Vertical Machining Centre Model Genos M660-V-e-S12. A fourth machine, Okuma multi-function 5-axis Machining Centre GENOS M4605AX is about to be installed to further expand IBROX Engineering’s capability to deliver to their expanding customer base.

“The reliability and service levels achieved by the Okuma machines and the service and technical advice and training offered by the company is quite remarkable,” said Derek. “With the new machine I will be taking full advantage of the training offered for my operators and I know that expert advice is always just a phone call away. I am very familiar with the set up on each and programming is very easy on these machines,” he said.

Supporting Derek in the business is hands on and equally hardworking wife Natasha with their three children assisting when required. Whist the bulk of the work in this reliable machine shop is contract work, IBROX Engineering specialises in hydraulics, automotive, defence and general engineering with clients not only in Victoria but also Australia-wide.

With the business expanding rapidly and with the strength in the Australian manufacturing industry, Derek has experienced some difficulty in finding a qualified programmer and machinists within Australian and is currently advertising widely both within Australia and overseas for suitable people and skills levels.

“At present the manufacturing sector is strong with plenty of work coming through and I am confident that this will continue. The commissioning of the latest Okuma multi- function 5-axis Machining Centre Model Genos M460-5AX will increase our capabilities and operators love increasing their skills in the latest technologies that come with these advanced machining centres,” said Derek.

“We can see the professionalism and hard work Derek and Natasha are putting in to firmly establish this rapidly expanding engineering company which is providing customers with quality products on short timelines. Okuma is proud to be part of this and to continue the strong relationship with the Warrington family,” said Mark Richards, Branch Manager-Victoria & Tasmania, Okuma Australia. okumaaustralia.com.au ibroxengineering.com.au

Dimac Tooling

Dimac Tooling & Lang Technik Workholding: A comprehensive product range for enhanced manufacturing efficiency and flexibility.

Workholding technologies form a critical foundation for companies engaged in precise and efficient manufacturing processes. Industries such as defence, aerospace, medical, mining, automotive, and general engineering rely on these technologies for optimal production efficiency. Access to high-end workholding technology is not just advantageous; it is essential for ensuring smooth operations and high-quality output.

Dimac Tooling, Australia’s premier supplier of accessories and premium workholding solutions for CNC milling and CNC turning machine tools, has thrived for well over 30 years. They collaborate closely with clients to grasp the nuances of their operations, enhancing machine performance and human interaction. Each range they offer aligns with their ongoing mission to discover the most effective, safe, and productive methods for securing machine workpieces, ensuring optimal productivity and flexibility. The Lang Workholding range, developed and manufactured in Germany, perfectly embodies these ideals.

Lang Technik's premier products are currently utilised by Dimac's prestigious clients, one of which is Australian Precision Technologies Pty Ltd, an advanced manufacturing facility that consults Dimac's expertise as their CNC performance partner. These products are designed to optimize and enhance both new and existing machinery, maximizing manufacturers' investments by ensuring shorter production cycles, rapid reconfiguration of workholding, and higher product quality. Richard Weinzierl of Australian Precision Technologies Pty Ltd, a client of Dimac for over 25 years, commended Dimac, stating, "Their delivery is efficient, service is second-to-none, product range is extensive, and their team is knowledgeable, friendly, responsive, and accessible. Australian Precision Technologies Pty Ltd couldn’t recommend Dimac and their premium product range highly enough."

Lang Technik are the originators of the 52/96 Quick-Point Clamping System known industry wide as “Zero-Point Clamping.” Lang’s workholding range compromises of Quick-Point Plates, MakroGrip Self-Centring Vices, new Quick-Point Rail System, new FullSerration FS System, Quick-Point Tri-Top 3-face tombstone, QuickTower Tombstones and Pyramid Fixtures to name a few, all of which are designed with outstanding efficiency, versatility, reliability, and durability in mind. “Being German built, the Lang range is extremely strong, solid, easy to use and accessible,” stated Mr Weinzierl. “The versatility of each product means the range can be used across multiple machines. It has provided our company with a universal system that has enabled us to upgrade our pre-existing machinery instead of completely replacing equipment.”

The new patented Quick-Point® Rail System is Lang’s latest innovation, impressing its users with its diverse range of applications. When used on 5-axis machines, multi-pallet automation systems, large 3-axis tables, and clamping bridges, it ensures cost-efficiency as it doesn’t require a zero-point base plate. Set-up speed and flexibility were core focuses when developing this product, and its seamless clamping system enables variable positioning of the zeropoint units in 4mm increments. This makes workholding setup on the Rail System extremely fast with impressively high repeatability. As with the Quick-Point Plates, the rails come in standard and customizable configurations to suit the majority of machine table configurations.

For manufacturers requiring new and improved stamping technology, the Makro-Grip ® FS will likely be your Lang product of choice. The brand’s stamping tech has paved the way in raw part machining for years, but the introduction of the Makro-Grip ®

FS boasts a revised stamping technique, new stamping jaws and additional series of the company’s 5-Axis Vises. By adding a range of new features, this new and improved stamping unit is even easier to use than other products on the market, and much more effective. A new stamping contour in the blank and the matching serration in the 5-Axis Vise allows users to achieve up to 60% higher holding forces with the same clamping parameters.

A marriage between the Makro-Grip ® and QuickPoint®, the MakroGrip® 46 micro and QuickPoint® 52 duo enables machinery to clamp more parts on a smaller footprint, boasts greater application diversity through modularity and compatibility with the QuickPoint® 52 system, and is ideal for the automation of small parts due to the combination of compactness and holding force.

Finally, the Quick-Point® Tri-Top 3-face tombstone and Pyramid Fixture promises maximum stability, increased machine run-time and identical contours, and is designed to reduce downtimes and tool changes in milling operations.

“Thanks to our supplier partner Dimac, we use the Lang range on all our machinery. The point-to-point accuracy is always incredibly precise, and it allows our machinery to operate unmanned on 24hour cycles, so we can enjoy our weekend with family and friends without worrying about our tech,” Weinzierl endorsed. “Dimac’s commitment to providing us with the best of the best – including the Lang range – when it comes to workholding solutions has allowed us to optimise efficiency and productivity on a large scale.”

The Lang range has been developed to provide users and machinery with a competitive edge, helping companies gain a manufacturing and product quality advantage over their counterparts, and Dimac’s distribution of the range – throughout Australia– showcases the company’s commitment to offering the very best solutions to some of Australia’s largest manufacturers. dimac.com.au

Female Machinist

Tool grinding’s talented new ambassador. How Lena Risse went from apprentice to ANCA Female Machinist of the Year.

Like many people, Lena Risse didn’t know what career to pursue when she entered young adulthood in 2017. Now she’s won ANCA’s inaugural Female Machinist of the Year contest.

Lena studied media technology at university for a time, and began a related apprenticeship in supporting trade fairs and concerts, but it didn’t suit her. Then at 19 she decided to give tool grinding a try, an option that seemed simultaneously obvious and crazy. Obvious, because her father Horst Risse was running a one man tool grinding company with such love and dedication that he routinely says he’ll be standing at a machine when he’s 85. And crazy because to this day, Lena finds so few females in the field, though she’ll convincingly explain why that should not be the case.

Lena had helped out at Risse Werkzeugtechnik GmbH (Risse Tool Technology GmbH) in Erkrath, Germany as a teenager, doing things like packaging and laser marking. But she’d never touched the tool grinders. That changed as she started her apprenticeship in 2018. She took immediately to her father’s four ANCA machines and found that the more she did, the more she liked it. Her curriculum called for cycles of six weeks of practical work in the company interrupted by two weeks of classroom theory. By the beginning of 2022, Lena passed her exams to become a fully qualified machinist. By then she was also responsible for all the company’s regrinding, which is roughly half their business, plus many additional duties. On top of that, she’s pursuing a master craftsman qualification—the only woman in the region to do so— and is on track to finish this summer. That would certify her to manage and train production teams.

It’s not the diplomas that motivate her though. It’s the satisfaction of things like starting a week with hundreds of diverse, damaged or worn out tools, wondering how you’re going to sharpen them all,

and then measuring, programming, grinding, and delivering them all to happy customers by week’s end. Or the satisfaction of inventing a dead stop for their automatic chuck, so they could hold a tight tolerance on length when regrinding a series of unequal end mills.

Lena’s training didn’t include the intricacies of ANCA’s iGrind software, but she’s explored it on her own, greatly boosting the company’s capabilities. (The elder Risse never had time to attend any of ANCA’s training courses.) For example, she introduced autoloading tools of different lengths, expanding the kinds of ‘lights out’ jobs they can do. And when a customer ordered 1,000 drills with through-hole coolant, she immediately recognised that her father’s approach of adjusting the rotational position of the blank by sight was not going to work. So she programmed a probing routine on their 15-year old ANCA RX7 to automate the task.

What’s next? Lena envisions continuing to stand alongside her dad for years to come, and they’re discussing the option of taking on an apprentice when Lena gets her master machinist certification. She’s also considering the possibility of adding the role of teaching other grinders at a nearby school or business.

Whatever she does, Lena is adamant that it’s a wonderful career for women and she decries the fact that virtually everyone she meets in the field, and all her instructors and company managers, have been male. As Lena sees it, “tool grinding is about patience, precision, logical thinking, and just finding solutions for problems. And I don’t think that men are better at this than women. I never have a day at work where I say ‘I don’t want to do this. This is a job for a man,’ or anything like that.” She adds that while she thinks women can do dirty or strenuous work, they should know that tool grinding is pretty much the opposite, “and I would like to see more women have the courage to just do it.” anca.com

Lena Risse at her ANCA FX7 Linear, proving that women can excel at machining.

NEXT GENERATION MACHINING

On Display: New Press Brake, Fiber Laser Cutting Machine & Hand-Held Welder

AMADA has provided the Australian industry with a steady stream of innovative, productivity-enhancing sheet metal machinery directly from Japan. Its product range includes sheet-metalworking machinery, tooling, software, and automation systems.

This year, we are unveiling a new era of Bending innovation at AMW 2024, aligning with our commitment to empower customers and drive their success through these advancements. AMADA will DEBUT our NEW high tonnage servo-electric drive press brake series called EGBe.

We will also demonstrate the BREVIS Compact Fiber Laser Cutting Machine, a Fiber Laser Welding machine alongside a Virtual Factory production monitoring system that also allows for remote diagnostics and service in line with Industry 4.0.

AMADA's latest generation of servo-controlled press brakes, the EGBe Series, is equipped with a high-performance, high-tonnage electric drive system, a revolutionary back-gauge system, and a voice command control. These production-enhancing features ensure high-speed bending and repeatable accuracy even if an operator lacks experience.

AMADA V-Factory & IoT Remote Support

In order to provide solutions to common sheet metal production issues experienced by our customers, AMADA has introduced Vfactory and IoT Remote Support.

V-factory is designed to actively monitor the performance and operation of your machines by collecting real-time data and providing access to this data anytime, anywhere. V-factory works by highlighting production inefficiencies such as machine downtime, energy consumption and material usage. Access to real-time data is today a prerequisite in many industries that wish to manage production and check machine availability. AMADA's V-factory solution is designed to meet this demand in a comprehensive yet easy-to-use format. From the workshop manager to the operators, all employees involved in production can share information using the My V-factory application.

The new AMNC 4ie control provides operator face recognition and voicecommand functionality to maximise efficiency, ease of use, and productivity.

A three-finger back-gauge ensures stable positioning of asymmetrical workpieces and simplifies part positioning.

Our patented servo drive system achieves high-speed and low torque / low-speed and high torque with a single motor for high precision and productivity.

Identifying production constraints (hidden or unidentified), addressing inefficiencies and being able to monitor your production anytime, anywhere improves your overall performance and drives your production forward.

AMADA IoT Support explores artificial intelligence and remote technologies to connect with customers in real time regardless of their location.

saveBOARD

Low carbon building materials from upcycled packaging. An interview by Carole Goldsmith.

As a true circular economy solution for composite packaging waste, saveBOARD is recycling waste such as: Tetra Pak food and beverage cartons, ingredients’ bags, coffee cups and soft plastics, by processing these into low carbon building materials.

The sustainable building material’s manufacturer operates plants in both Western Sydney and in Hamilton on NZ’s North Island. Both sites are identical and have seven employees each. Additional manufacturing sites in both QLD and VIC are planned, as saveBOARD has secured funding from both the VIC and QLD governments, towards the cost of these two new plants.

Co-founder and CEO saveBOARD, Paul Charteris, says from his Hamiliton NZ plant, that he is very proud of his company, which he started five years ago with a US co-founder silent partner. “Last year saveBOARD and Tetra Pak, secured the Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation’s Improved Recycling Systems Award, highlighting our efforts in recycling and sustainability,” he says.

“The key is to ensure that there is enough demand for our products to underpin our investment before proceeding with each plant. If we can make them stack up financially then, we need to raise $5m for the Victorian plant and $4.3m for the Gold Coast plant,” Charteris adds.

The latest Australian waste figures reveal that in 2020/21, Australia generated an estimated 75.8 million tonnes (Mt) of waste, equivalent to 2.95 tonnes per person.

Minister for Environment and Water, Tanya Plibersek released the biennial 2022 National Waste Report in December 2022. The report also found that Australians generated almost 3% more waste compared to 2018/19 and Australia’s recycling rate remains stagnant at 60%.

The largest waste categories were building and demolition materials (25.1Mt), organics (14.4Mt), ash (12.0Mt), and hazardous waste (7.4Mt). Recycling and recovery rates were highest for metals (87%), building materials (81%), paper and cardboard (62%), organics (58%) and glass (59%).

“Waste is increasing, but the proportion of waste we’re recycling is not,” said Minister Plibersek. “Every bit of rubbish that ends up in landfill is a missed opportunity to contribute to a circular economy in which nothing is wasted,” said Minister Plibersek.

How did saveBOARD get started?

Explaining how he came up with the idea to start saveBOARD, Charteris says, “I was working for a large engineering company as its general manager and we were asked by a large milk producing company to look at options on what to do with the company’s food and beverage carton’s factory waste. We identified a US business, Continuous Materials, which actually does what we are doing today at saveBOARD, processing packaging waste into building materials.”

“Although the milk company was initially interested in this initiative, producing building materials was not its core business, so they decided not to get involved. At the time, I thought that it was a great business idea and I wanted to set it up in NZ and Australia. So, I set out on my own path to actually secure enough funding from investors and due diligence to make it a reality.”

Charteris brought on the US company’s founder as a silent partner. He has several packaging waste recovery plants across the US, so he knows the business well. “They are mainly making a roofing cover board there, as it’s high volume and sells well, but they don’t make all the products that we do.

saveBOARD manufactures six core building products: exposed and paper faced internal lining, ceiling tiles, multi-use panel, roofing substrate and rigid air barrier. They all meet the Australian and NZ building codes.

“For, every one kilogram of packaging waste that we collect or is dropped off at our sites, we have to sell one kilogram of finished building product to be a circular economy solution. We use compression and heat to turn the waste into wall or ceiling board and the other products. Scrunchable soft plastics with a high percentage of Low-Density Polyethylene are melted and used as a glue to bind the building products in the production process.

When discussing the building materials manufacturing process, Charteris uses an analogy: “It’s like making a cake! We have a recipe, so we weigh the ingredients, the right amount of soft plastics, fibre and beverage cartons. That all gets mixed together in a large commercial mixer until it’s an even consistency.

“Then it’s mechanically laid out to the right level of thickness and processed in two large hot presses (our ovens). Heat and pressure are used and the soft plastics are intermingled with the fibre to make a composite structure. We cool it off quickly, cut it to length and then palletise it to a stack of around 30 boards together, ready

for distribution to our clients. The manufacturing technology that we use is licensed to the Asia Pacific region.” One of its larger clients, KFC Australia, has used saveBOARD’s recycled wallboards in 25 of its stores to date, starting with its South Penrith, NSW store last June. KFC made a commitment to support a circular economy, says Charteris. “We are converting KFC’s packaging waste, like soft plastics and pellet ribs into building materials to use in its stores, mainly in the public spaces like the restaurant areas. It looks really cool and it’s great exposure for us.”

“We like to think that we can show that a circular economy is a clear, sustainable business model. We take packaging waste which generally only has a single use and then we make a product that people want to buy, as it has an on-going use. Also, we don’t charge our clients a gate fee for taking back a part of our product that they are not using. Just to explain that, if you buy one of our wallboards and let’s say you cut some holes out for windows. You might have 5% of the product as waste, so we will take that back and re-manufacture it again and make new board.

“Around 50% of our clients return our product off-cuts for recycling and I would like to think that will increase with time. It’s a bit like the home curbside recycling, it would be good if everyone did it, but not everyone does.” Charteris says that there are challenges in the business. “To complete the circle, we need someone to buy the products that we make,” he says. “We are trying to show that it’s a sustainable business model, so recycling the waste into building materials and selling our products quickly is not only smart, but makes good financial sense too.”

One of saveBOARD’s waste streams is derived from the QLD, WA, NSW and SA Container Deposit Schemes (CDS). These schemes

provide consumers with a small reward for eligible recyclable material they return. The CDS have been a great success with 3.8 billion containers supplied into NSW alone in the past 12 months (Jan 23 – December 2023.) reports Exchange for Change. It reveals that $4.7m has also been returned to NSW charities and community groups since the scheme commenced in 2017, via donations and fees for hosting points (Dec 17 to June 2023.)

SaveBOARD also collects packaging waste from many large manufacturers, retail stores and from large construction companies. Charteris advises that they are also working through a small proportion of the REDcycle stockpile of soft plastics, which was collected by Coles and Woolworths until that ceased in Australia, late 2022. A similar soft plastics’ collection is still operating successfully in NZ supermarkets.

Charteris has big plans for saveBOARD’s on-going success. “As well as the planned QLD and VIC plants, our aspirational goal is to establish other plants in the Asia-Pacific Region. There are hundreds of different types of circular economy businesses handling different waste streams, so you also want to be able to make a difference in Australia and the world. Probably the greatest challenges are that you need companies and people to actually buy circular products and services, because if you don’t, then you won’t have the demand or the financial returns to expand.

“Ultimately, we need Federal, State & Territory and Local Government to help promote and give preference to these types of sustainable and circular economy products and services as that creates the demand, innovation and investment within the industry.” saveboard.com.au saveboard.nz

Edge AI

Enabling real-time decision-making on IoT devices. A view of present possibilities, by Ruth-Anne Marchant, Senior Team Lead at MathWorks Australia.

The strategic potential of the Internet of Things (IoT) has driven engineers to deploy an ever-growing array of edge devices, which collect, process, and run inference on data without consistent connections to the internet. Historically, organisations have sent data collected at the edge to the cloud for processing by machine learning models, as the devices lacked the computational power required to run them. With the development of more powerful processors and model compression software, the reliance on cloud-based computing has decreased. Instead, edge devices now have the capability to perform intensive AI calculations locally, which were previously done in the cloud. With Internet-connected devices expected to reach 29 billion by 2030, the need for edge AI is growing exponentially and is forecasted to be integrated into 65% of edge devices by 2027.

Enabling technologies leading to the evolution of Edge AI

The Edge AI market is expected to grow from $23.7bn in 2022 to $163.5bn by 2029. Although edge AI is not a new concept, the latest technological advancements have made edge AI simpler and more economical to implement.

The

main advancements driving edge AI today are:

• Microcontrollers (MCUs) and Digital Signal Processors (DSPs) – Vector processors have become more powerful and are being customised by chip vendors to suit the needs of AI processing. These types of processors are currently the dominant edge AI hardware.

• GPUs (Graphical Processing Units) – Originally used for graphics-intensive applications, such as gaming and video editing, GPUs are now used to train and run inference on AI models.

• AI Accelerator ASICs – While GPUs perform better than CPUs for AI-related tasks, custom, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) tailor-made for AI workloads can offer even greater speed and efficiency. Neural Processing Units (NPUs), a form of ASIC, are specifically designed to process AI models, which makes them better suited for this task than a CPU.

Using Edge AI to reduce reliance on cloud-based computing

While edge AI may not eliminate cloud-based computing, the need to handle increasingly massive amounts of data makes one thing clear: engineers cannot afford to overlook the game-changing benefits of edge AI today. The main advantages of edge AI are real-time processing and decision-making, which lower latency and reduce costs associated with power usage and cloud processing. The reduced reliance on maintaining a persistent internet connection enables engineers to implement edge AI models more efficiently in many industries. Over 400 use cases for edge computing across 19 industries and six technology domains exist. AI models integrated into edge devices can have potentially life-saving implications in some applications, such as automotive and medicine.

Automotive safety-critical systems

An automobile is one example of an edge device that collects and processes data locally, reducing the amount of data that must be sent to the cloud. Due to the self-contained nature of a car’s Electronic Control Unit (ECU), data processing must be performed

locally, and safety-critical decisions must be made in real-time. Machine learning models on an edge device, such as a car ECU, ensure passenger safety by using real-time data to adapt to road conditions and reduce collisions.

One motor vehicle manufacturer trained a machine learning model to detect oversteering, which occurs when a vehicle’s rear tires lose grip with the road during a turn. The manufacturer captured thousands of data points related to vehicle acceleration, steering, and yaw rate (angular velocity). By loading the data into MATLAB, engineers could train a machine learning model to recognise oversteering using the Statistics and Machine Learning Toolbox. The machine learning model was then deployed and integrated in the ECU using MATLAB Coder.

Real-time decision-making in medical devices

An advantage of edge AI in the medical device field is its ability to enable fast decision-making. Real-time data analysis and anomaly detection enable timely intervention and reduce the risks associated with life-threatening and long-term health conditions. Medical edge devices can also communicate with applications in the cloud for data logging purposes, which is not a time-sensitive task. In this way, cloud-based computing does not take away from but rather complements data inference on the edge to create an even more powerful network of devices.

For example, a technology institute research group developed predictive algorithms for Artificial Pancreas (AP) systems that detect impending hypoglycaemia and hyperglycaemia. The group created virtual patients and used MATLAB to simulate physiological signals such as heart rate and energy expenditure. The completed algorithm was deployed on a mobile device that communicates with an insulin pump, a glucose monitor, and a wearable wristband to enable effective glucose concentration control. Ultimately, the research group created a network of edge devices working in tandem as an integrated health monitoring system.

Conclusion

The amount of data engineers must manage grows daily, and edge AI implementation can help maintain operational and cost efficiency while reducing reliance on cloud processing. As engineers build on cloud-based inference and AI-enabling technologies continue to evolve, integrating AI into edge devices is quickly becoming necessary for companies to differentiate their products. Most importantly, edge AI should be considered an additional tool alongside cloud-based inference rather than a replacement or complete overhaul of the current AI-based systems. By implementing AI on the edge and using the cloud for applications where latency is not a concern, engineers can expand their AI toolbox irrespective of their industry. mathworks.com.au

Australian Manufacturing: supporting growth and prosperity

The Australian manufacturing industry stands at a critical juncture, brimming with potential and promise.

By Sharon Robertson, CEO, Manufacturing Industry Skills Alliance.

With over 875,000 Australians currently employed in manufacturing, and projections indicating significant growth ahead, the sector is primed to become a driving force in the nation's economy.

By 2033, manufacturing is expected to employ more than five percent of the Australian workforce, creating over 14,000 new jobs annually on average. This growth trajectory underscores the industry's potential and its importance as a key contributor to economic prosperity. However, with growth comes the responsibility to understand and address the evolving needs of our workforce.

As the Jobs and Skills Council for Manufacturing, the Manufacturing Industry Skills Alliance (Manufacturing Alliance) is working towards meeting the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead as we chart a path for future growth.

Jobs and Skills Councils were set up by the Federal Government as a national network of 10 industry owned and industry led organisations to provide leadership to address the skills and workforce challenges for their industry.

Our role within industry is multi-faceted. We advocate for the interests of the sector and drive tangible solutions to address workforce challenges. We develop training products that align with industry demands, driving continuous improvement in skill development, and we provide a strategic voice that informs policy and decisionmaking. Collaboration is key to our success. By working closely with governments, unions, industry stakeholders, and educational institutions, we identify emerging opportunities and capitalise on them to unlock Australia's manufacturing potential. We can shape policies and initiatives that foster a thriving manufacturing ecosystem and drive economic growth and prosperity for our nation.

The COVID-19 pandemic served as a stark reminder of the importance of local manufacturing capabilities. It exposed vulnerabilities in global supply chains and highlighted the need for greater self-sufficiency. In response, there is a renewed focus on revitalising the manufacturing sector and enhancing Australia's sovereign capability. Government support and industry backing are driving initiatives to bolster key sectors such as Sustainability, Resources Technology, Critical Materials Processing, Food and Beverage, Medical Products, Clean Energy, Defence and Space.

There is also a growing trend towards shorter and more resilient supply chains. While this presents opportunities for local manufacturers, it also poses challenges regarding the availability of skilled labour. To address this, we must invest in workforce development now to ensure we have the talent pool required to support the growth of emerging sectors.

As Australia expands its manufacturing capabilities, we must prepare for the workforce opportunities that emerging industries and advances in technology will bring. For example, the clean energy transformation is opening some incredible manufacturing opportunities for Australia, and we are seeing increasingly exciting opportunities in the medical technology and pharmaceutical industry. To realise the full potential of these opportunities we need a skilled workforce capable of leveraging them effectively. Therefore, our focus must be on identifying the workforce challenges that exist and equipping our workforce with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive.

For example, in Australia, the demand for skilled labour in the defence sector is expected to surge, with suggestions the AUKUS nuclear-powered submarine project alone will require 20,000 new skilled jobs by 2050 .

Recognising the need to develop skills not currently available, particularly for defence manufacturing involving nuclear propulsion systems, poses a significant workforce challenge. Our upcoming ‘Building a defence workforce’ project will identify and evaluate gaps in the delivery and capacity of the skills system which is crucial for decision-making in the defence manufacturing workforce.

A second example is the licensing rules updated by Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) which may affect the skills needed in manufacturing. The updates have resulted in a new modular license structure, allowing licenses to match the needs of maintenance organisations. Our ‘Aviation Maintenance Skills pathways’ project will identify how industry will use these changes to develop and fill the skills shortage facing the aviation maintenance sector, it will also look at how the new and current licensing options and the training system can better align. This is crucial to ensure that the changes enable greater uptake of maintenance engineers and to ensure that the workforce is equipped with the right skills for their job role. These are just two examples of how the Manufacturing Alliance is addressing workforce challenges and creating tangible solutions for industry to capitalise on emerging opportunities. As we continue consulting with industry and identifying their workforce challenges, there will be many more.

For many years, I have witnessed collective determination within industry to embrace change and drive innovation that shapes the future. With the right investments, policies, and collaborations for the workforce there is no doubt that the manufacturing industry will overcome its challenges and continue to support growth and prosperity. manufacturingalliance.org.au

BlueRock

Expert Tips: How to scale up your manufacturing capabilities in current economic times.

Vince Giovanniello, CEO at BlueRock shares tips on how manufacturers can scale up their business capabilities.

In the wake of financial uncertainty, economies around the world have faced significant challenges, with businesses striving to adapt and recover. Australia is no exception, as businesses across various sectors grapple with the impacts of rising interest rates and inflation. As the economic landscape evolves, the Australian Government is looking to provide more opportunities for businesses to thrive and innovate. The recently launched Industry Growth Program is a powerful initiative designed to support small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in their pursuit of commercialisation and growth, within specific priority sectors outlined in the National Reconstruction Fund.

This comes after the manufacturing industry experienced setbacks during the pandemic, facing supply shortages and workforce reductions, and has been on the journey of rebuilding itself in the post-COVID-19 era. With this in mind, numerous manufacturing businesses are actively seeking avenues to expand and advance, even amidst the prevailing economic uncertainties.

During the pandemic, the manufacturing industry faced several challenges that affected businesses across the country and the world. Now, manufacturers are continuing to be faced with another set of challenges and are wondering how best to scale up their capabilities in these times. As a business grows, it's essential to ensure that every aspect of its operations remains synchronised to prevent disruption and maintain high levels of quality.

What does it mean to scale up?

Growing to scale, or scaling up, is when a business ensures all aspects of its processes grow in tandem so that one area isn’t left behind. Scaling up entails intensifying efforts and undertaking additional activities to ensure the capacity to handle increased demand in the event of securing a large contract.

Hiring additional staff or acquiring new equipment may be required to meet the demands of new contracts. While this might increase your expenses, it is essential for the continued growth of your business. Financial advisers can help you put strategies in place to scale at a pace that works for your business. Their expertise can ensure that your growth is sustainable and financially viable, while also helping you manage potential risks and make informed decisions during the expansion process.

When scaling up you should have a well-defined plan for what you want to achieve. You should know exactly which areas you’re looking to grow and how you will go about doing this. Having clear objectives allows the entire business to pull in the same direction, and reduces instances of unforeseen outcomes.

Maintaining a versatile business model is crucial to prevent compromising product quality, customer satisfaction, or employee morale. This may involve sourcing different or additional materials from suppliers or building new partnerships. It could also mean branching out to new locations or harnessing new technologies.

Implementing advanced technology, including automation, can significantly improve your manufacturing processes, leading to increased efficiency, productivity, and cost savings. Using digital resources can be an enabler to trigger growth in the first place, as they bring about an increase in efficiency. This leads to higher turnover, and ultimately means you have more money to invest in increased marketing or production if necessary.

As your business scales, it's essential to continually evaluate and optimise your production processes. Identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies and implement changes to improve throughput and minimise waste. Regularly monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to track progress and make data-driven decisions.

The Industry Growth Program is tailored for SMEs engaged in innovative projects that align with the National Reconstruction Fund's priority areas. The Australian Government aims to drive transformative growth across seven priority sectors of the Australian economy, which include:

• Value-Add in Resources

• Value-Add in Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries

• Transport

• Medical Science

• Renewables and Low Emissions Technologies

• Defence Capability

• Enabling Capabilities

Participating businesses gain access to a specialised Advisory Service aimed at helping overcome significant challenges associated with their projects. The NRF and the Industry Growth Program stand as beacons for businesses striving to innovate, grow, and contribute to priority sectors vital for national development. It's a transformative opportunity for SMEs to receive tailored advice and potential funding to fuel their growth within specified sectors.

Seek advice

There is always great value in seeking professional advice, particularly in times of growth. Although you may have the relevant expertise internally, it is always beneficial to source guidance externally to get a different perspective. Advisory firms like BlueRock can provide valuable advice for manufacturers who are looking to scale up their business. bluerock.com.au

Owning a piece of the business

Empowering manufacturing teams: The role of employee share schemes. Nicholas Mirarchi – Principal at William Buck.

In the dynamic world of manufacturing, where innovation, efficiency and collaboration are paramount, the significance of fostering a motivated and engaged workforce cannot be underestimated.

We find that corporates may not consider certain tools that exist to help align the interests of employees with the long-term success of a business. One of these tools is the employee share scheme (ESS), which can be relevant for start-ups and mature companies.

An effective and well-crafted employee share scheme is a powerful tool for recognising, retaining and rewarding talent, whilst engaging a culture of ownership and commitment. Having an advisor with a sound and commercial understanding of these tools, and the needs of your business, is crucial when embarking on a journey looking to implement an ESS.

An option plan

One common type of ESS is the option plan, where employees are granted options to acquire shares at a predetermined price after a specified time, or once performance conditions are satisfied. Typically, the taxation of these plans occurs at the time the options are exercised, but depending on how the plan is drafted, this may also be deferred until an exit event such as a share buy-out.

Our experience is that option plans are particularly effective in closely held companies, as they help in retaining key staff over the long term and maintaining their commitment to the underlying business. An effective option plan is one that goes hand in hand with an overarching remuneration strategy.

For option plans, the employee is taxed on the difference between the market value of the shares at exercise and the exercise price. We find a key factor in obtaining employee buy-in is whether the option plan has been appropriately modelled and communicated. There are also tax concessions available in specific circumstances that further bolster the value of the plan and provide significant tax benefits to employees.

A share plan

Alternatively, the popularity of the share plan, where the employee is granted shares outright but with certain restrictions such as vesting periods or performance goals like an option plan, is on the rise. Share plans are generally taxable at the time they are granted but it is sometimes possible to defer this tax when the plan is offered to a broad number of employees and certain restrictions exist on vesting. These plans are most effective when coupled with a sound shareholder agreement. Like option plans, the market value of the shares is treated as taxable to the employee, reduced by any amount that the employee paid to acquire the shares.

Only one tool in the remuneration strategy

An ESS is only one tool in demonstrating a company's commitment to recognising and rewarding the contributions of its workforce. By providing employees with a stake in the company's performance, businesses can foster a sense of ownership and accountability, driving productivity and innovation. The potential financial benefits of participating in these schemes can also enhance employee determination and satisfaction, leading to higher levels of loyalty.

A well-designed ESS can represent a strategic tool for manufacturing businesses looking to thrive in today's competitive landscape. It must always address the unique needs of the company. By tapping into the skill and knowledge of an experienced advisor to help model, implement and execute a tailored plan, companies can unlock the full potential of their workforce.

The takeaway for manufacturers

An ESS can be particularly beneficial to manufacturers in the following circumstances:

• Attracting board level expertise where there is a desire to grow the business over the long term into new markets or product offerings. We have found in these circumstances an ESS helps provide certainty to both parties of what success will look like and ensures a sense of continuity in key expertise around the board table.

• Attracting or retaining key technical expertise where there is a skill shortage for a particular technical skill. This has been common within the post-covid period and we have found an ESS to provide a point of difference in remuneration packages, with the potential for more upside for the individual over the long term as compared to a bonus-based structure.

• Achieving key business performance indicators where the success of the business, or a new product offering, is dependent on the collaboration of one or more technical staff members. Having an ESS in place can ensure a cohesive and collaborative environment and allow staff to participate in the upside of their success.

• Succession planning in family operated businesses is where an ESS can serve as another alternative within a manufacturing business. By enabling staff to gradually acquire ownership stakes in the company over time, businesses can cultivate a pipeline of future leaders. This helps strengthen the fabric of the company culture, a sense of camaraderie and a shared purpose at all levels.

If you are interested in understanding how an employee share scheme could apply to you or want to discuss the effectiveness of your overarching remuneration strategy, William Buck’s advisory team will be more than happy to discuss your needs and become part of your journey.

William Buck’s Nicolas Mirarchi is available on 03 9824 8555 and nicolas.mirarchi@williambuck.com williambuck.com

Milestones are worth celebrating

With many milestones coming up this year it is worth looking at why we celebrate them.

Recognition and accomplishment

Milestones mark significant achievements or events, whether personal, professional, or societal. Celebrating them acknowledges the effort, dedication, and progress made towards a goal.

Motivation

Celebrating milestones can serve as motivation to continue working towards further goals. Recognising progress boosts morale and encourages individuals or groups to keep pushing forward.

Reflection

Milestones provide an opportunity for reflection on past achievements and experiences. They allow individuals to assess their journey, learn from successes and failures, and set new targets based on their growth.

Connection

Celebrating milestones often involves gathering with friends, family, or colleagues. It strengthens bonds, fosters a sense of community, and provides an opportunity for shared joy and camaraderie.

Tradition

Many societies have traditions and customs surrounding milestone celebrations. These rituals may vary widely across cultures but often serve to honor important life events and transitions.

Gratitude

Milestone celebrations often involve expressing gratitude towards those who supported and contributed to the achievement. It's a way to acknowledge the help received and the interconnectedness of individuals in reaching goals.

We congratulate ANCA and Jenkin Brothers on celebrating 50 years of business this year. Both companies have a mantra of investing in their business, whether it be through investing in their people through training, investing in the latest technologies or investing in product development and innovation. Two foundation AMTIL members going from strength to strength.

AMTIL are also celebrating our own anniversary, being established in August 1999. So, we are having 25 year celebrations of our own this year, reflecting on our past but also looking towards the next 25 years as well.

Look out for our activities we have planned as we want to celebrate our achievement with as many members as we can over the coming months.

Shane Infanti, CEO AMTIL

AMTIL Golf Day

What a great day for a game of golf.

With mild overcast weather conditions, a welcome change from the 2023 heatwave, 96 eager participants demonstrated their sportsmanship on the stunning grounds at Riversdale Golf Course, Mt Waverley. The playing teams were mixed well and came up with some great final scores. After a competitive morning on the course, all teams gathered at the clubhouse for a delicious lunch and drinks, mingling with fellow members and guest attendees. The day wrapped up with an awards ceremony celebrating those who stood out for their exceptional performance. Congratulations to all who won the great door prizes from AMTIL and William Buck!

Winners on the day

Congratulations to the overall Winning team from Metal Industries Insurance Brokers (MIIB) - Nick Sear, Pat Sear, Jarrod Goodes and Matt Abraham, trophies presented by Nicholas Mirarchi from William Buck. They won with a net stableford score of 54.50 points.

Congratulations to the Runners-up team from Flexicut – Randy Derozario and Rob Banhidi, trophies presented by Nicholas Mirarchi from William Buck. With a stableford score of 55.50.

Longest drive – Matt Abraham (MIIB Team)

Straightest drive – Matt Williams (Dimac)

Nearest the pin

1st - Troy Donegan (MIIB Team)

3rd – Leo Dunne (Shisham Stanley Group)

12a – Stacey Dart (Simply Finance)

14th – Rob Banhidi (Flexicut) amtil.com.au

International Women’s Day AMTIL event

Excellent company, meal, venue and speakers at the AMTIL IWD event.

AMTIL proudly staged an International Women’s Day event to recognise the effective participation of women in Australian manufacturing. We had 65 participants come to the beautiful ballroom venue at Hotel Chadstone to take part in a very special lunch and presentation. What took place was an opulent afternoon of inspiration and empowerment at the AMTIL International Women’s Day Lunch. We are thrilled to showcase two exceptional speakers, each offering a unique perspective on resilience, positive mindset and being unstoppable. They were really top rate.

The global campaign theme for IWD2024 is #inspireinclusion

The speakers were Tracey Wright and Deanna Blegg:

Tracey Wright is CEO Take Shape Adventures, Masters in Nutrition, Positive Psychology, and she spoke on subjects based on ‘Thriving Amidst Chaos: Adventure for Happiness, Leadership, and Success’. Currently pursuing a Masters in Positive Psychology, Tracey aims to empower individuals to thrive in their daily lives by fostering a positive mindset and growth through adventure.

With over 20 years of experience in the health and fitness industry, Tracey's journey began by operating a business from her personal training studio. Her commitment to the well-being of others led her to further her education, earning a Masters in Nutrition in order to provide

a comprehensive approach to health. As the CEO of Take Shape Adventures, which brings people together and adventures to life.

Deanna Blegg is a world champion athlete, entrepreneur, a mother of two, and a motivational speaker. She has also won World’s Toughest Mudder twice. She is an Ambassador of the Burnet Institute.

Deanna spoke on the topic "Unstoppable: Navigating Life's Obstacles to Achieve Success"

Deanna’s story is not one of linear progression but a dance with constant challenges, where she rises and falls, always searching for positive outcomes and success. Deanna's journey mirrors our own, reflecting the universal human experience of navigating the unpredictable terrain of life. The speech truly unravelled the essence of resilience and it really made a welcome impact. Her tale was an invitation to explore our own resilience, face challenges head-on, and chart a course toward personal success. amtil.com.au

REAP THE BENEFITS OF AMTIL MEMBERSHIP

NSW AMTIL site visits

AMTIL brings members together for a great day out in Moss Vale.

Around 22 AMTIL members, many driving out from Sydney, others from further out and indeed some others coming up from Melbourne, attended the tours of Komatsu, and on to Eilbeck Cranes in late February. The first stop was down in Moss Vale for a tour of Komatsu. These companies have been manufacturing mining machinery for the last sixty years.

After a business overview presentation, safety briefing, PPE fitting and a run through of the house-keeping, the group visited the many subassembly areas that collectively make up the underground mining machinery that Komatsu manufactures. The immense workshops were filled with mining equipment being fitted with gear for their next descent into the coal mines around NSW and QLD.

Hosted by Moss Vale Site Manager Ben James, and assisted by Senior Business Unit Manager, Bill Turner and National Procurement Manager, Scott Hogan, we were directed into many areas to experience some of the shearers, room and pillar/entry development equipment, including continuous miners, bolting systems, haulage systems, feeder breakers, and many sub components. We also had the opportunity to view a conveyor system which transports the coal from underground, can be upwards of 175 metres long, all electrically-powered and fully collapsible. Longwall systems, including longwall shearers, powered roof supports, armoured face conveyors, and stage loaders/mobile tail pieces were also available to view. The complexity of

some of the electronic componentry was astonishing. I reckon we all left convinced of the power of large scale engineering required in the mining sector, and the AMTIL group was very pleased to be able to see this close up, care of Komatsu.

The second place we visited that afternoon was not far from Komatsu at all, on the other side of some train tracks. Charlie Eilbeck was good enough to host us at his brand new facility where his highskilled crew were pushing out some of the biggest crane bodies in existence. “Cranes are what has made us quite a prominent business,” yelled Charlie. “We have about 70% of the Australian market share.” Eilbeck employs about 450 people in Australia and they have nine crane building facilities around the country. “It's great mate. We love it. We love making things, we love manufacturing,” he added. “Very proud and passionate about what we do.” Charlie says the original purpose was to make crane components, but now it's turned into an engineering business and a contract manufacturing business. They’ve built three huge sites in eight years, winning many major road and tunnel projects around the country.

The shop we were being shown around has only been online for a few months and has increased Eilbeck Cranes’ capacity for further fabrication for painting and heat treatment, plate-forming, plate rolling and the shipment of many cranes for those major projects.

komatsu.com.au eilbeckcranes.com.au amtil.com.au

WELCOME BACK2BACK

Season 2024 has been back for a few weeks now and it's our first chance to congratulate the Magpies on their glory of 2023 –yes, it was a Grand Final for the ages but it's time to move on. Back to Back is beginning to look less likely given the form of the Pies unless they extract the digit – also a little shaky from the well-fancied premiership favourites, Lions with both Grand Finalists at 0-2 at the time this went to print. Both GWS and Sydney have started with a bang of high-level skills and polish and will be a lock come finals time. Dimma has stamped his style at the Suns, but will they have their traditional mid/late season slump? Port Adeliade are still dangerous with a their talented midfield a genuine threat to all comers. The Dees scored a win and the Doggies are already under fthe pump given their list. Till next time… Sanchez

Komatsu

Eilbeck Cranes

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many industry events world-wide were postponed, rescheduled or cancelled. Readers are advised to check with all event organisers for the latest information. For the latest international travel advice, please visit smartraveller.gov.au For more events, please visit amtil.com.au/events

INTERNATIONAL

MACH

UK, Birmingham

15-19 April 2024

machexhibition.com

SIMTOS

KOREA, Goyang

22-26 April 2024 simtos.org

HANNOVER MESSE

GERMANY, Hannover

22-26 April 2024

hannovermesse.de

INTERTOOL

AUSTRIA, Messeplatz

23-26 April 2024 intertool.at

MACHTECH SAUDI ARABIA

SAUDI ARABIA, Riyadh

30 April – 2 May 2024 mactech-ksa.com

AISTECH

USA, Ohio

6-9 May 2024

aist.org/conference-expositions/aistech

FABTECH

MEXICO, Nuevo Leon

7-9 May 2024

mexico.fabtechexpo.com

NPE

USA, Florida

6-10 May 2024 npe.org

METAL SHOW & TIB BUCHAREST

ROMANIA, Bucharest

14-17 May 2024

metalshow-tib.ro/en/

3D PRINT CONGRESS & EXHIBITION

FRANCE, Chassieu

4-6 June 2024

3dprint-exhibition-lyon.com

INTERTOOL

AUSTRIA, Vienna

4-7 June 2024 intertool.at

ITM METALFORUM POZNAN

POLAND, Poznan

4-7 June 2024 itm-europe.pl

TAIWAN INTERNATIONAL FASTENER SHOW

TAIWAN, Kaohsiung City

5-7 June 2024

fastenertaiwan.com.tw

FABTECH CANADA

CANADA, Ontario

11-13 June 2024

canada.fabtechexpo.com/

ASSEMBLY & AUTOMATION TECHNOLOGY

THAILAND, Bangkok 19-22 June 2024 assemblytechexpo.com

M-TECH

JAPAN, Tokyo 19-21 June 2024 manufacturing-world.jp

ALUMINIUM CHINA

China, Shanghai 3-5 July 2024 aluminiumchina.com

VME

VIETNAM, Hanoi

7-9 August 2024 vme-expo.com

CIMIF MACHINERY INDUSTRY FAIR

CAMBODIA, Phnom Penh 14-17 August 2024 chanchao.com.tw/cimif/

MMMM

INDIA, New Delhi 29-31 August 2024 mmmm-expo.com

CAMX

USA, San Diego 9-12 September 2024 thecamx.org

IMTS

USA, Chicago 9-14 September 2024 imts.com/

AMB

GERMANY, Stuttgart 10-14 September 2024 messe-stuttgart.de

STAINLESS STEEL WORLD ASIA

SINGAPORE 11-12 September 2024 singaporeexpo.com.sg

MICRONORA

FRANCE, Besancon 24-27 September 2024 micronora.com/

M-TECH OSAKA

JAPAN, Tokyo 2-4 October 2024 manufacturing-world.jp

MOTEK

GERMANY, Stuttgart 8-11 October 2024 motek-messe.de

ALUMINIUM

GERMANY, Dusseldorf 8-10 October 2024 aluminium-exhibition.com/en-gb.html

BI-MU

ITALY, Milan 9-12 October 2024 bimu.it

MACH SAUDI ARABIA

SAUDI ARABIA, Riyadh 13-16 October 2024 machsaudi.com/

EUROBLECH 2024

GERMANY, Hanover 22-25 October 2024 euroblech.com

JIMTOF 2024

JAPAN, Tokyo 5-10 November 2024 jimtof.org

ADVANCED DESIGN & MANUFACTURING EXPO

CANADA, Montreal 13-14 November 2024 admmontreal.com

FORMNEXT MESSE

GERMANY, Frankfurt 19-22 November 2024 formnext.mesago.com/frankfurt

METEC INDIA

INDIA, Maharashtra 27-29 November 2024 metec-india.com

2025

METEF

ITALY, Bolgna 5-7 March 2025 metef.com

MACHINEERING

BELGIUM, Brussels 26-28 March 2025 machineering.eu

ADVANCED ENGINEERING

SWEDEN, Goteborg 2-3 April 2025 advancedengineeringgbg.se

CMTS CA

CANADA, Toronto 29 Sept – 2 Oct 2025 cmts.ca

AUSTRALIAN MANUFACTURING WEEK (AMW)

ICC SYDNEY, DARLING HARBOUR

17-19 APRIL 2024

The ONE event that showcases the latest innovations, technologies and equipment in the advanced manufacturing sector. Explore new opportunities, meet and network with industry leaders and technology experts, all under ONE roof at ONE show. australianmanufacturingweek.com.au

AUSTRALIAN AUTO

AFTERMARKET EXPO

MELBOURNE CONVENTION & EXHIBITION CENTRE

11-13 APRIL 2024

’The Workshop of the Future is Here’ showcases the latest vehicle repair and servicing equipment, parts, tools and accessories, new technology and trends, an Awards evening plus a comprehensive training and education program. autoaftermarketexpo.com.au

SYDNEY BUILD EXPO

ICC SYDNEY

1-2 MAY 2024

The two-day event showcases all the latest opportunities in NSW and Australia. The event connects all key players in the industry and attracts attendees from: contractors, architects, engineers, housebuilders, developers, government and construction professionals. sydneybuildexpo.com

WORKPLACE HEALTH & SAFETY SHOW

MELBOURNE CONVENTION & EXHIBITION CENTRE

22–23 MAY 2024

The ultimate free two day in-person event taking place in Melbourne and Sydney in 2024, aiming to empower professionals with the knowledge, tools, and resources needed

to enhance workplace health and safety practices. Discover interactive, innovative and collaborative solutions, hear from experts and meet key organisations. Explore the exhibition showcasing hundreds of health and safety products and resources or attend sessions featured in the Knowledge Centre or dedicated Spotlight Sessions. whsshow.com.au

AUSMEDTECH2024

ACC, ADELAIDE

22-23 MAY 2024

What you can expect at AusMedtech 2024!

Cutting-edge insights: Just as in 2023, we're committed to delivering a programme filled with thought-provoking discussions led by industry experts. Expect a diverse range of topics, from Australian success stories and the distribution challenges of getting products to market to the ever-evolving diagnostics landscape and the intricacies of intellectual property in medtech.

https://www.ausmedtech.com.au/

AUS SPACE 24

ICC, SYDNEY

28-29 MAY 2024

The Australian Space Summit and Exhibition is back for its third consecutive year, and it’s set to be bigger and more illuminating than ever before! This extraordinary two-day event will feature two main stages, hosting over 70 speakers who will engage with an audience of more than 1,000 passionate space enthusiasts. Join us as we bring together a remarkable line-up of local and international key opinion leaders who will take to the stage. Together, they’ll shed light on critical funding issues and unveil fresh opportunities for international collaboration that will fuel the growth of Australia’s space sector.

spaceconnectonline.com.au/events

“RIGHT – OH,” SAID CHIF…

“I’ve read your specifications for the job you want to make, and Larry this prototype six-cylinder car out there is very, very close to your requirements.”

"O

.E is in on this. [O.E Hunt, General Motors Corporation vice president in charge of engineering] He has taken your point that the car to be made in Australia must satisfy the requirements you have laid down, be he believes, as I do, that this prototype could darn nearly fit the bill in terms of basic design and engine.”

This of course, was big news. I went over the specifications of the prototype and, by jove, it was close to specification requirements.

I think I had 2,100 pounds overall weight, and this one was 2,200. The horsepower, power-to-weight ratio, the torque and package size– everythong was within a whisker of mine. I went home that night and slept on it. I had pumped hard for an all-Australian car, and here was this embryo job filling most of what I wanted. If I adopted it, would I be true to my cause? Next day I went over it. Again. And I said, “Yes. Why not? It’s almost what I had in mind.” So we cut time and cost and everything and picked up this prototype as our working design. I wrote the number of its design in pencil on the inside lid of my office cigarette-box: 195Y-15. It’s there now and I often look at that pencilled note. That prototype became the father of the Australian Holden.

It was agreed in Detroit that styling of the new car, sheet-metal work and all the things practised for years in Australia would be carried out at the Australian end, and the mechanical side would be carried out in Detroit by a combined team of Australians and Americans. And, Detroit said, if we wanted some Americans we could ask for them. When the time was right, an American group would go to Australia and would be merged with the Australians into one team. In seven or eight months, when the prototype had been thoroughly proved, it would be sent to Australia with the American technicians.

Now I had the OK, the car, but still had no idea how to get the cash. Immediately I got back to Australia, I saw J.K Jensen and then Ben Chifley, and all my money worries vanished within minutes. They were amazed I had talked GM into making the car. “Well, I’ll be damned,” was Chifley’s reaction. When I told him about their one condition–that it would have to be financed in Australia–Chif didn’t even blink. “I’ll contact J.K Jensen and H.T Armitage, Governor of the Commonwealth Bank,” he said. “I can’t see that money should be allowed to hold up a matter so important to Australia.”

Before I left Chifley, I told him I’d be sending him a letter in a few days, setting out General Motors’ conditions for making the car. We needed no tariff protection– no aids other than the right to import certain tools from any country we liked, duty-free and without restriction of exchange; the right to call on any war machinery in our plants, and an undertakjng that the Government would not engage in any way in motor-vehicle production. Those would be the main conditions.

“Right-Oh,” said Chifley. “Send it along.”

I saw Jensen in Melbourne the next day, ans surely enough, word had come through. He, in turn, had contacted the Commonwealth Bank. J.K., being chairman of the Secondary Industries Commission, carried a ton of weight. Then I saw Armitage at the Commonwealth Bank in Melbourne. “How much do you want?” he asked.

“About two or three million pounds,” I said casually. “Hm. Can you get any closer than that?” Armitage was being deliberately casual too, as though he handled requests like that all day.

“Well, make it two and a half million. That should do it,” I said. “I think we can find that,” he said. And that was that!

When Ted Holden, a director of the Bank of Adelaide, heard we’d got the money from the Commonwealth Bank, he said, “The Bank of Adelaide will take a very poor view of that. They’ll want to lend some of it.” So the Bank of Adelaide contributed about 500,000 pounds. And there it was: the car, the authority and the money.

So you can see, it is fair to say that the Holden project was financed by the Commonwealth Government: by the people of Australia, led by a socialist Labour Government.

Of course you might say the credit standing of General Motors of America was an influencing factor, but the Commonwealth Bank was not dealing at the outset with General Motors. It was dealing directly with General Motors-Holden. And when I came to Australia in 1934 their one-pound preference shares were down to 8/6d. and their ordinary shares weren’t worth a cracker.

To be continued…

This is an extract from ‘Big Wheels & Little Wheels’, by Sir Laurence Hartnett as told to John Veitch, 1964. © Deirdre Barnett.

Big wheels & little wheels – the story of UK-born Australian Sir Laurence John Hartnett (1898 – 1986) Australia’s “Father of the Holden” and much more