www.ies.org.sg
SUSTAINABILITY: Forty years of pioneering innovative water solutions in Singapore
ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING: EV battery design –innovating for longer range and battery life
IDENTITY SECURITY: State of Security report highlights top trends
04 Advancing the engineering profession to support Singapore’s progress Er. Chan Ewe Jin, IES President, elaborates on the two-pronged strategy to strengthen the engineering profession and amplify its impact.
14 Four Tengah BTO projects awarded top-tier ABC Waters Certification HDB received a total of 16 certifications this year.
18 Forty years of pioneering innovative water solutions in Singapore
The key achievements and contributions of a global leader in advanced pump solutions.
24 Reducing a facility’s carbon footprint requires a data-driven approach
New features added to a productivity tool can now assist in measuring energy consumption.
26 EV battery design – innovating for longer range and battery life
It will include developing the ability to test thousands of battery cells at any one time.
President Er. Chan Ewe Jin
Chief Editor T Bhaskaran t_b_n8@yahoo.com
Publications Manager Desmond Teo desmond@iesnet.org.sg
Publications Executive Nuraini Ahmad nuraini@iesnet.org.sg
Editorial Panel
Dr Victor Sim
Dr Chandra Segaran
Dr Ang Keng Been
Dr Aaron Sham
Mr Jaime Vega Bautista Jr
Mr Soon Ren Jun
Dr Alexander Wiegand
Media Representative Trevor Teh IES@mnc-link.com
Design & layout by 2EZ Asia Pte Ltd
Cover designed by Irin Kuah
Cover image by HDB
by
Institution of Engineers, Singapore
Bukit Tinggi Road, Singapore 289758
6469 5000 I Fax: 6467 1108
in Singapore
30 State of Security report highlights top trends Artificial Intelligence appears in the conversation for the first time.
32 Actions meet ambition
The 18th edition featured more than 50 events.
36 Lower costs and higher productivity for shot peening processes
The selection of the right method is based on several considerations.
37 Circuit breakers upgraded at waste-to-energy plant The modernisation required minimal downtime.
The Singapore Engineer is published monthly by The Institution of Engineers, Singapore (IES). The publication is distributed free-of-charge to IES members and affiliates. Views expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect those of the Editor or IES. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine shall be reproduced, mechanically or electronically, without the prior consent of IES. Whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy of the content at press time, IES will not be liable for any discrepancies. Unsolicited contributions are welcome but their inclusion in the magazine is at the discretion of the Editor.
The Institution of Engineers, Singapore (IES) announced the inauguration of Er. Chan Ewe Jin as its 30th President, during the 58th IES Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on 25 May 2024.
During his two-year term, he will steer IES forward, with a two-pronged strategy aimed at strengthening the engineering profession and amplifying its impact, nationally and globally.
In an email interview with ‘The Singapore Engineer’, Er. Chan elaborates further on the strategy, and also explains how engineers can help address some of the major challenges such as climate change and cybersecurity.
The Singapore Engineer (TSE): As IES President, you have outlined your plans for the next two years, defined by a two-pronged approach. What are the highlights of the first prong?
Er. Chan Ewe Jin (CEJ): For the first prong, our focus is on strengthening the four IES pillars – engineering excellence, professional development, professional registration, and internationalisation.
Key goals in this facet include bolstering the work of our Technical Committees, elevating standards in engineering practices as a Standards Development Organisation for building & construction and railway systems, enhancing the skills of the engineering workforce, and introducing new sustainability courses under the IES Academy.
We will also fortify our chartership programmes to boost professional recognition of engineers and, as a Skills Development Partner of SkillsFuture Singapore, strengthen the capabilities of engineers by developing training programmes to impart the skills that are in demand.
Another highlight of the first prong is internationalisation. We aim to deepen the exchange of best practices and promote cross-border mobility for engineers, by continuing to actively participate in international engineering groupings, and through Memoranda of Understanding and
For the first prong, our focus is on strengthening the four IES pillars – engineering excellence, professional development, professional registration, and internationalisation.
For the second prong, we have identified three priority areas to drive positive change – enhancing professional accreditation, boosting membership & service quality, and amplifying outreach & engagement.
Mutual Recognition Agreements with overseas counterparts. We also plan to have our Young Engineers Committee organise various activities on global platforms.
TSE: What is the second prong and what are its intended goals?
CEJ: For the second prong, we have identified three priority areas to drive positive change – enhancing professional accreditation, boosting membership & service quality, and amplifying outreach & engagement.
We will centre our efforts on refining our chartership programme’s accreditation process and scaling
up accreditation in key sectors, focusing on high-demand areas like sustainability.
Recognising that members are the cornerstones of IES, we are committed to adding even greater value to our members, by digitising IES services by June 2025, revamping the IES website and exploring the creation of an IES app to elevate our members’ experience. With these efforts and more, we will strive to achieve a 20% increase in membership over the next two years.
Lastly, we are set on broadening our community outreach and engagement efforts. Activities under this charge include hosting dialogue sessions, supporting aspiring engineers, fostering greater inclusivity and amplifying engagement across IES student chapters to grow our membership among professionals under 30.
TSE: With the effects of climate change clearly being felt, how can engineers help?
CEJ: Equipped with knowledge, ingenuity and technical expertise to develop innovative solutions, engineers are uniquely positioned to address the challenges posed by the climate crisis and build a more sustainable and resilient future for generations to come.
Engineers are already making substantial differences in diverse
ways to alleviate the effects of the climate crisis, from developing sustainable infrastructure, designing renewable energy solutions and enhancing water management, to promoting circular economy practices and developing climate models and prediction tools.
As the impact of climate change escalates, engineers must respond with greater urgency. We need to do more, act faster and devise more effective solutions to safeguard our planet and our future.
At a personal level, engineers should also walk the talk by adopting practices at home, such as recycling or reducing food waste and supporting green initiatives in the community.
IES sees itself as an integral part of every engineer’s journey to combat climate change. As the national society of engineers in Singapore, we position ourselves at the forefront, actively engaging in the battle, alongside engineers, equipping them with essential skills, paving the way for them to achieve engineering excellence, channelling their expert views to the relevant stakeholders, and promoting collaborations locally and internationally.
TSE: Which specific aspects will you focus on, to achieve the goals of the IES Green Plan 2030?
CEJ: The success of the IES Green Plan 2030, and the larger Singapore Green Plan 2030, hinges on having a strong core of engineers who are able to innovate sustainable solutions, implement cutting-edge technologies and collaborate effectively across disciplines, to address the climate crisis.
Recognising this, we are committed to empowering engineers with the necessary skills and knowledge, by taking our chartership programmes and professional development offerings to another level. This includes the accreditation of Chartered Engineers in Sustainability to increase our pool of Chartered Engineers in emerging sectors. We are also developing sustainability-focused courses to upskill engineers
in this domain, which will be rolled out in Q3 2024.
Our efforts will be extended not only to engineers but also to engineering technologists and technicians, in order to establish a robust engineering ecosystem that harnesses complementary skills to deliver end-to-end solutions. All these efforts will be closely aligned to the national SkillsFuture movement.
In addition, we will continue to leverage platforms such as the Charles Rudd Distinguished Public and Global Lectures, and the World Engineers Summit, to promote knowledge exchange, foster collaborations and inspire the development of new, innovative solutions, for a sustainable future.
TSE: Do you have any plans to engage students in the next two years’ journey of IES?
CEJ: Definitely. Our Young Engineers Committee will play a central role in our efforts in this area. We are looking at having the committee expand its engagement across all IES student chapters, to increase the chances of these students transitioning to full IES membership upon graduation.
We will also continue to use platforms like the National Engineers Day (NED) to enthuse students in engineering and bring the diverse, rewarding career opportunities in engineering to their attention.
TSE: As the engineering industries grow and transform, is there an accompanying increase in safety and security, including cybersecurity, issues? Your comments on how this can be addressed.
CEJ: The growing magnitude of cybersecurity issues underscores the importance of prioritising it as a strategic imperative for every organisation. It is a multi-faceted issue requiring proactive measures, including risk assessments, threat intelligence sharing, employee training and robust cybersecurity technologies.
As the professionals who develop, implement and maintain cybersecu-
Our targets may appear ambitious but we firmly believe that with the support of our members, the engineering community at large and our stakeholders, the sky is the limit. I would like to call everyone to join us on this exciting journey.
Your participation is pivotal to turning our aspirations into reality – for the benefit of our economy, our people and our country!
rity systems, monitor networks for anomalies and respond to security incidents, engineers would have to stay ahead of the curve to mitigate cyber risks.
Having the right mindset is half the battle won. Cyber threats will continue to evolve but keeping cybersecurity as a priority and continuously upskilling to stay abreast of the latest threats are essential in navigating complex challenges and building robust resilience against potential attacks.
Engineers are instrumental in promoting a culture of cybersecurity awareness within their organisations. While cybersecurity is a shared responsibility, engineers, as technical experts, can take a lead role in educating and engaging their colleagues to enhance their organisation’s cyber resilience and protect against threats.
TSE: Any other information that you wish to provide?
CEJ: Our targets may appear ambitious but we firmly believe that with the support of our members, the engineering community at large and our stakeholders, the sky is the limit. I would like to call everyone to join us on this exciting journey.
Your participation is pivotal to turning our aspirations into reality –for the benefit of our economy, our people and our country!
Pall Corporation, a leader in filtration, separation and purification technologies, recently held the opening ceremony for a new manufacturing facility in Singapore, that will serve regional and global customers within the growing semiconductor industry.
Mr Alvin Tan, Minister of State for Trade and Industry and Culture, Community and Youth, graced the opening ceremony as the Guest-of-Honour, and was joined by Mr Casey Mace, Deputy Chief of Mission, US Embassy in Singapore and Mr Tan Kong Hwee, Executive Vice President, Singapore Economic Development Board.
Pall has invested approximately USD 150 million on the facility which will primarily produce lithography and wet-etch filtration, purification and separation solutions that will help meet the high demand for advanced node semiconductor chips.
“Throughout an almost 80-year history, Pall has been on the forefront of solving some of the world’s most complex challenges using advanced filtration. This new facility is not only an important development for advancing semiconductor manufacturing technology, but also an important next step for Pall,” said Mr Naresh Narasimhan, Danaher Group Executive, High Growth Markets & Pall Corporation.
“We will continue to leverage our experience and expertise to help solve global challenges, from the increased demand for advanced chips to aiding in the transition to greener manufacturing,” he added.
The seven-acre facility will include more than 18,000 m2 of high-volume manufacturing and office space, and will integrate core research and development capabilities in the future. The new facility will allow customers in highly demanding industries to meet growing end-market demand for data processing and storage.
“Newer applications like gen-
erative Artificial Intelligence (AI), High-Performance Computing (HPC), next generation communications and autonomous vehicles require cutting-edge semiconductor chips that are made in advanced node fabs. The high technology filtration solutions manufactured by this new facility are specifically designed to support the production of these advanced node logic and memory chips,” said Mr Shangaza Dasent, Vice President and General Manager Microelectronics, Pall Corporation.
The new facility is expected to create up to 300 jobs over the next few years, across science, engineering and advanced manufacturing, with an emphasis on training and developing new talent as well as enabling transfer of knowledge, to contribute to the growth of the sector, as
part of Singapore’s long-term strategy. There will be a consistent focus on talent development aligned to broader strategic national priorities, to ensure that the advanced manufacturing industry can thrive in Singapore.
With the addition of the new facility, Pall is building more capacity to support cutting-edge technologies and help scale new applications like generative AI.
“We warmly welcome Pall’s new manufacturing facility to Singapore’s vibrant semiconductor ecosystem. This addition not only strengthens Singapore’s position as a critical node within the global semiconductor industry, but also improves the resiliency of the supply chain for the region,” said Mr Tan Kong Hwee, Executive Vice President, Singapore Economic Development Board.
City Developments Limited (CDL) is said to be the first real estate company in Singapore to launch its own SME Supplier Queen Bee Programme (the Programme), bolstering its efforts in public-private partnerships to accelerate decarbonisation.
The Programme is a collaboration with an established sustainability consultant, Global Green Connect (GGC), alongside carbon accounting IT solution providers, and with DBS Bank as the financier partner. The Programme is supported by Enterprise Singapore (EnterpriseSG) which has been working with large corporates to jointly support SMEs to build new capabilities in sustainability. The agency will provide support for 70% of the qualifying programme cost per participating SME Supplier, until 30 November 2025.
Leveraging CDL’s sustainability leadership and expertise, the Programme aims to enable CDL’s selected 100 local SME suppliers to enhance their ability in carbon accounting and reporting.
SMEs with strong decarbonisation commitments and transparent data will have the opportunity to become preferred suppliers not only to CDL but also to other companies who are required to meet the global carbon reporting standards and frameworks such as CDP and Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). Participating SMEs can gain knowledge and credibility for the data they are able to collect through the Programme as the framework for data collection is aligned with the requirements of CDP and SBTi.
SMEs onboarding the Programme will build capabilities for carbon emissions reduction, with the help of GGC, in areas such as measuring carbon emissions, developing tailored decarbonisation roadmaps, and implementing greenhouse gas reduction targets. GGC partners with a panel of carbon accounting IT solution providers, to measure and report
greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the participating SME suppliers.
Participating SME suppliers which are interested in further enhancing their capabilities in sustainability and decarbonisation can also gain access to Singapore Business Federation’s (SBF) range of programmes and resources, which are tailored at helping SMEs to gear their businesses to be sustainability-centric.
In line with CDL’s dedication to achieving its global and national net-zero commitments, transparency in disclosing and managing its Scope 3 emissions is imperative. Through the Programme, CDL is extending its efforts to engage and empower its SME suppliers in carbon accounting and reporting.
Ms Esther An, CDL’s Chief Sustainability Officer, who emphasised the transformative potential of the Programme, said, “To win the global race-to-zero, we need to engage and enable SMEs to support procuring organisations in the decarbonisation journey together. Through this collaboration with like-minded partners in public and private sectors, our SME suppliers will be able to tap onto this digital platform to track, disclose, and manage their carbon emissions”.
“This joint initiative will help CDL to access credible carbon data from our SME suppliers, allowing us to track and manage our Scope 3 emissions effectively. As the Queen Bee, we hope to not only advance our sustainability goals but also align with Singapore's ambition for decarbonisation as outlined in the Singapore Green Plan 2030, towards a more sustainable future,” she added.
Mr Geoffrey Yeo, Assistant Managing Director, Enterprise Singapore (Capabilities, Urban Systems & Solutions), said, “With the growing trend and demand for greener supply chains, businesses must embrace sustainability to remain competitive and relevant to their customers. Large corporates such
as CDL, can be effective stewards to spur their SME suppliers to embark on their decarbonisation journey. We are happy to support this programme which would not only help CDL in its sustainability goals but also strengthen local SMEs’ capabilities in sustainability.”
Ms Christina Lee, Founder & Chief Executive Officer of Global Green Connect, said “We are honoured to support CDL’s Queen Bee project by partnering with a panel of carbon accounting IT solution providers, including ESG Tech and STACS, to measure and report greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the participating SME suppliers. With our team’s technical expertise and passion for sustainability, I firmly believe that this impact project will set an excellent precedent for how sustainability leadership from both the private and public sectors could collaborate in tackling climate challenges and transforming businesses for long-term success.”
On the financing front, DBS will offer financing at preferential rates to CDL’s SME suppliers that are interested to tap on GGC’s sustainability consultancy for the Programme. In addition, these suppliers can access supply chain financing at a discounted rate through the bank’s invoice financing solutions, in relation to the suppliers’ activities with CDL.
Mr Chew Chong Lim, Managing Director & Group Head of Real Estate, Institutional Banking Group, DBS Bank, said, “DBS Bank is delighted to partner CDL on their SME Supplier Queen Bee Programme. This initiative is designed to empower suppliers to elevate their sustainability practices. We recognise that addressing climate change requires a unified effort, and we are committed to collaborating with our esteemed client, CDL, to provide financing capacity where needed in its supply chain, to advance towards a net-zero future.”
Underscoring a shared commitment to sustainability and innovation, Meinhardt Singapore Pte Ltd, a global leader in engineering, infrastructure and project management consulting, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Ngee Ann Polytechnic (NP).
This partnership aims to spearhead advancements in smart and sustainable facilities management, reflecting both organisations’ dedication to nurturing future-ready talents, and creating resilient and sustainable urban solutions.
Under the framework of the MoU, both parties will engage in discussions in relation to sustainable and resilient buildings; carbon footprint reduction; infrastructure and environment; climate change; and asset management with resilient systems, digital twin and other built environment technologies.
“At Meinhardt Group, we envision a world where infrastructure and urban developments not only embody innovation but also tread lightly on our planet. This partnership with Ngee Ann Polytechnic represents a pivotal step in that direction, offering a unique confluence of academic rigour and industry expertise to empower the next generation of green leaders in the built environment sector,” said Mr Omar Shahzad, Group CEO of Meinhardt Group.
“By aligning our efforts, we are setting new benchmarks for what is achievable in the realm of smart and sustainable facilities management,” he added.
The collaboration will unfold across various initiatives including joint research and consultancy projects; the co-creation, development and showcasing of systems, platforms and solutions at NP; the formation of tripartite partnerships with other educational and research institutions; and the development of specialised train-
ing, attachment and internship programmes for NP students and faculty alike.
“This MoU represents Meinhardt’s commitment to nurturing talents who are not just adept at navigating today’s challenges but can also envisage and engineer the sustainable solutions of tomorrow. Together with Ngee Ann Polytechnic, we are eager to co-create a future where innovation leads the way to environmental stewardship and societal well-being,” said Dr Eugene Seah, Chief Operating Officer of Meinhardt Singapore Pte Ltd.
“We are invested in forging strategic alliances to innovate sustainable solutions. The synergy between Meinhardt Singapore and Ngee Ann Polytechnic through this MoU pro-
vides a robust platform for pioneering sustainable practices and technologies in the built environment sector. It reflects our shared aspiration to play an instrumental role in Singapore’s transition towards a greener future,” said Mr Lim Kok Kiang, Principal and CEO of Ngee Ann Polytechnic.
In conjunction with the MoU, NP unveiled the SEED (Sustainability Education & Ecosystem Development) initiative, aiming to cultivate sustainability-intelligent graduates poised to contribute to the green economy. By embedding sustainability across its curriculum and fostering industry partnerships, NP sets a precedent for educational institutions striving towards environmental excellence.
The Meinhardt Group has an nounced the appointment of Dr Uma Maheshwaran Cheyyar Ramanathan as a Global Board Member; CEO overseeing its op erations in Africa, Central, and South Asia; as well as the CEO for Meinhardt Planners.
At Meinhardt, Dr Uma Ma heshwaran will spearhead efforts to harness growth opportunities in emerging markets across Central Asia and Africa, where the Group is accelerating its expansion. With a background in building science and finance, and recognition gained for integrating sustainability into core business strategies, he will help advance Meinhardt’s mission to deliver commercially successful and highly buildable urban and infrastructure solutions worldwide.
Meinhardt’s urban planning business, pushing the envelope in designing cities and communities that are not only functional and aesthetically pleasing but also sustainable and resilient.
In his new role, Dr Uma Maheshwaran will also oversee
Dr Uma Maheshwaran brings with him over two decades of illustrious management and leadership experience, having held several senior roles in the industry in the past, notably as CEO for Jurong Consultants India, and subsequently as CEO for Surbana Jurong’s South and Central Asia operations.
GSK recently announced that it has signed a 10-year energy deal with Sembcorp, covering the electricity demand for all three of the company’s global manufacturing sites in Singapore.
This means that from 1 January 2025, all of GSK’s manufacturing operations in Singapore will be covered by renewable energy certificates from Sembcorp’s solar projects in Singapore and the 3% of renewable energy already being generated by the company’s on-site solar panels.
This deal will facilitate the supply of renewable energy certificates for up to 87,600 MWh of electricity annually, which would mean the reduction of approximately 36,500 MT of CO2 emissions.
GSK’s manufacturing facilities in Singapore are critical for the production of innovative medicines and vaccines, used in oncology and for the treatment of HIV and infectious diseases.
This deal is part of the company’s ongoing investment and commitment to Singapore, where it has had a presence, since 1959, and where over 1,500 people are employed, today. GSK has invested more than SGD 2.5 billion in Singapore to-date.
Mr Regis Simard, President, Global Supply Chain, GSK, said, “I am proud that we have been able to sign this deal to transition our manufacturing sites in Singapore to renewable electricity from 2025. We are working to decarbonise our manufacturing facilities globally, through purchasing renewable electricity as well as investing in on-site renewable electricity generation. This is an important part of how we are reducing the carbon impact of our medicines and vaccines”.
Mr Vickrem Vijayan, Head of Energy Commercial, Singapore, Sembcorp, said, “As a leading renewable energy player in Asia, Sembcorp is well-equipped to support its customers to decarbonise, through its
global renewable energy portfolio and suite of carbon management solutions. We are delighted to be a part of GSK’s decarbonisation journey, and look forward to helping more corporates progress towards their sustainability goals.”
Healthcare systems globally account for roughly 5% of all emissions, with more than half of these emissions being created in manufacturing supply chains. Renewable electricity deals, like this, are part of how GSK is working to deliver on its ambitious sustainability targets, and to reduce the environmental impact of developing and manufacturing medicines and vaccines.
Transitioning to renewable energy, which will improve air quality, also has important benefits for respiratory and human health.
At a global level, GSK is committed to an 80% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, across all scopes by 2030, and a 90% reduction by 2045, from a 2020 baseline. This includes a commitment, as part of the RE100 initiative, to 100% purchased renewable electricity by 2025 and 100% renewable electricity (purchased and generated on-site) by 2030.
At the end of 2023 (using the last published data), GSK had reached 83% purchased renewable electricity across its operations.
In a significant development for the industrial sensor and Artificial Intelligence(AI) sectors, SICK, a leading solutions provider for sensor-based industrial applications, and Aicadium, a global technology company specialising in AI-powered computer vision products, have announced a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to co-develop and commercialise advanced computer vision AI solutions for industry customers in Singapore and Southeast Asia.
This partnership will mark a pivotal step towards integrating cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence with state-ofthe-art sensor technology, to address critical challenges in industrial and commercial environments.
The partnership between SICK and Aicadium will focus on the most challenging customer use cases. It aims to leverage the strengths of both entities to create AI-powered solutions for businesses in Singapore and Southeast Asia, combining SICK’s leading sensor technology with Aicadium’s innovative AI software.
With this collaboration, both companies want to revolutionise the way in which the industrial sector tackles high-impact problems with visual inspection, by providing advanced AI solutions that enhance efficiency, safety, quality and productivity.
Key aspects of the MoU include:
• A structured approach to solution development and commercialisation.
• Development of solutions tailored to meet the technical and business needs of end-customers in Southeast Asia.
• Discovery of emerging trends to better address high-impact use cases.
• Use of advanced deep learning and generative AI technologies.
“This collaboration between SICK and Aicadium brings together the best of industrial sensor technology, domain and application knowledge,
of SICK, as well as the advanced AI knowhow and technologies of Aicadium, to develop new solutions to solve challenging applications in the market. We are thrilled and excited about this partnership,” said Mr Michael Goh, Managing Director, SICK Pte Ltd, Singapore.
SICK is known for its worldwide operations for developing, producing, selling and servicing sensors, sensor systems and sensor-based solutions, particularly in the fields of optical sensors, proximity switches, safety technology, encoders, environmental and process measuring technology, identification solutions, material flow automation, traffic systems and laser measuring systems.
“We are thrilled to collaborate with SICK to deliver computer vision AI to a broad base of industrial customers,” said Mr Kezheng Chong, Senior Director of Business Development at Aicadium.
“This partnership comes at the right time to deliver a new class of solutions to visual inspection problems, where the combination of best-in-class sensors and advanced Artificial Intelligence enables industrial applications that are not only feasible, but commercially viable,” he added.
Aicadium is at the forefront of operationalising Artificial Intelligence within organisations.
Tapping on an international team of data scientists, engineers, and business strategists, Aicadium’s flagship product, Aicadium View, leverages computer vision AI to detect visuals, objects and actions, in videos and images, in order to provide workplace insights that create better products and safer, more productive industrial environments.
Applications of Aicadium View, for inspection, productivity, workplace safety and more, are positively impacting the businesses of customers.
By combining their respective expertise, SICK and Aicadium are poised to deliver solutions that will have a lasting impact on industries, such as manufacturing, transportation and logistics, worldwide.
The planned partnership represents a shared vision between SICK and Aicadium to harness the power of AI and sensor technology, to create a more productive and efficient industrial landscape. By combining their respective expertise, SICK and Aicadium are poised to deliver solutions that will have a lasting impact on industries, such as manufacturing, transportation and logistics, worldwide.
SICK is one of the world’s leading solutions providers for sensor-based applications in the industrial sector. Founded in 1946 by Dr-Ing e. h. Erwin Sick, the company, with its headquarters in Waldkirch im Breisgau near Freiburg, in Germany, ranks among the technological market leaders. With more than 50 subsidiaries and equity investments, as well as numerous agencies, SICK maintains a presence around the globe, with almost 12,000 employees worldwide.
Aicadium is a global technology company delivering AI-powered industrial computer vision products into the hands of enterprises. Founded by Temasek in 2021 and with offices in Singapore and San Diego, California, USA, Aicadium is operationalising AI within organisations where machine learning innovations were previously out of reach.
mechatronic systemtechnik GmbH (mechatronic), a leading global supplier of automation equipment for critical wafer handling, has announced the opening of its new, cutting-edge technology centre in Fürnitz, Austria.
Built with an investment exceeding EUR 20 million in value, the new facility spans 6,500 m2, across three storeys, and includes a progressive clean room and laboratory, which are central to the planning, development and production of the company’s advanced systems.
Founded in 1998, mechatronic specialises in addressing the semiconductor industry’s needs for reliable, safe and fully automated handling of non-standard substrates – including stacked, thin, or warped wafers, as well as eWLP, MEMS, TAIKO, bumped wafers and film frames.
Part of the Accuron Group, mechatronic is headquartered in Fürnitz, Austria and has a presence in China, Germany, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan and the US.
mechatronic joined the Accuron family in 2017. The investment made by Accuron reflects a strong belief in mechatronic’s potential, alongside shared values of innovation, quality and excellence.
Through a modular approach, mechatronic offers its customers cost-efficient handling systems that feature its proprietary technology. These solutions are capable of accommodating a wide range of substrate types and their specific characteristics.
Major OEMs and fabrication plants across the globe rely on mechatronic’s solutions for some of their most complex wafer handling needs.
mechatronic achieved an average annual growth rate of 20% over the last five years and considers this move as essential, in order to meet burgeoning customer demand and accommodate future development.
In response to the need for greater operational capacity, the management team made a strategic decision to relocate to Fürnitz from
around 35% larger than the current facility and will accommodate approximately 130 employees, while there are plans for additional recruitment to support future growth.
Environmental sustainability was a key priority in the design of the technology centre. The entire building is heated and cooled using innovative methods, such as underfloor heating combined with heat recovery and concrete core activation.
Workspaces are also fitted with a lighting control system that mimics natural daylight, offering employees a conducive and productive work environment. Furthermore, the building features a solar photovoltaic (PV) system, with a capacity of 361 kWp, on its roof. This demonstrates mechatronic’s commitment to green technology and empowers the company to achieve its net zero
The official opening of the technology centre marks a new chapter for mechatronic, reinforcing its position as a global leader in semiconductor handling solutions.
“We are excited about the capabilities this new facility brings to our operations. The technology centre not only expands our production capacity but also underscores our dedication to sustainable practices,” said Mr Walter Schober, CEO and Founder of mechatronic.
“This new technology centre is a milestone for both mechatronic and the Accuron Group. It demonstrates our long-term commitment to subsidiaries, employees and host countries. We look forward to celebrating mechatronic’s achievements and industry contributions in the years ahead,” said Mr Philip Yeo, Chairman of Accuron Technologies.
Siemens Mobility has been awarded a major contract by Dhaya Maju Infrastructure (Asia) Sdn Berhad for the implementation of the Klang Valley Double Track Phase 2 (KVDT2) project. This project primarily consists of design, supply, installation, testing and commissioning of signalling solutions across approximately 106 km of railway tracks.
The contract covers installation of signalling solutions which include the Trackguard Westrace Mk II interlocking system, Clearguard ACM 250 track vacancy detection system, Sigmaguard LED Signals and R5 9 DC track circuits.
The KVDT2 commuter rail route first started operations 25 years ago and served 29 stations across the suburban areas of Klang Valley, covering Salak Selatan Station to Seremban, and from Abdullah Hukum Station to Pelabuhan Klang Station.
To improve the reliability, availability and passenger experience of this key commuter route, as well as shorten the waiting times and maximise energy-saving capabilities, the Malaysian government launched the rehabilitation project to upgrade the KVDT infrastructure. In addition, it is developing a key transport network for large volumes of passengers and freight.
The rehabilitation project involves replacing the 25-year-old tracks with new foundations, upgrading the communication systems as well as refurbishment of stations.
The systems Siemens will be providing consist of railway automation solutions that will ensure maximum innovation, speed, reliability and sustainability. These solutions include:
• Trackguard Westrace Mk II, a safe, secure, highly flexible and future-proof interlocking system suitable for urban and mainline applications. Its processing power makes it possible to manage any kind of installation, including multiple I/O options, and reduce operating costs
with its predictive maintenance possibilities, whilst providing versatility in convenient scaling and enhancing reliability.
This same interlocking system will also be deployed in the Klang Valley LRT3 (Shah Alam LRT line) and Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS).
• Clearguard ACM 250, Siemens’ latest axle counting system which offers a more digital and economical solution for both standalone and larger, holistic projects. It also includes a redundant communication network for increased availability.
• Sigmaguard LED Style Signal.
“The Siemens future-proof signalling technologies will aid Malaysia’s government to make public transport an important and preferred mode of transport, while alleviating traffic congestion and improving road traffic to be ready for the city’s development plans. These Siemens rail technologies will also alleviate environmental concerns which high road traffic is contributing to. The signalling system will also greatly improve the reliability and availability of train services, and ensure the safety and comfort of the passengers,” said Mr Michel Obadia, CEO of Siemens Mobility Asia-Pacific.
This project builds on the already well-established relationship Siemens Mobility has with Malaysia. The KVDT2 will be operated and managed by Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB). The project is part of the Malaysian government’s plan to create a robust infrastructure with seamless connections, supporting and creating multiplier effects which will boost the nation’s economic growth.
In addition to the KVDT2 project, Siemens Mobility has also been awarded contracts for the following:
• Implementing a Trainguard MT Communications-Based Train Control (CBTC) signalling system for the Klang Valley LRT Line 3 (Shah Alam LRT line).
• Designing, installing and commissioning a CBTC signalling system and Platform Screen Door system on the Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit Link (RTS).
• Providing technical support on comprehensive maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) Level 3 & Level 4 of traction motor, main transformer and main converter for KTMB SCS (Class 92) and ETS 1 (Class 93) trains.
Hydrogen is one of the main technologies for decarbonising the railway sector, that will enable switching from diesel to renewable fuels, in particular, on routes which are hard to electrify.
From the train operator’s perspective, an integrated approach towards fossil-free mobility not only requires hydrogen-powered trains and corresponding maintenance services but also the creation of an entire supply chain for green hydrogen fuel.
In April 2024, Siemens Mobility and Tyczka Hydrogen signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) establishing a cooperation, in order to accelerate the transformation towards hydrogen-powered railway mobility. Both companies have agreed to work together towards solutions across the full supply chain, including hydrogen production, storage, distribution and refuelling, as well as delivery and maintenance of fuel cell trains.
Additionally, Smart Train Lease, a subsidiary of Siemens Mobility, offers hydrogen trains for rent.
HANNOVER MESSE 2024 was held, from 22 to 26 April 2024, at the Hannover Exhibition Grounds in Germany, with Norway as this year’s partner country.
The event featured 4,000 exhibiting companies and 300 startups, and attracted more than 130,000 visitors from 150 countries. More than 40% of the visitors came from abroad. Apart from Germany, the nations with the largest number of visitors were China, the Netherlands, South Korea, the US and Japan.
Also, over 300 economic and political delegations visited the event.
“HANNOVER MESSE 2024 was both an industrial powerhouse and a technology trade fair for the future,” said Dr Jochen Köckler, Chairman of the Managing Board, Deutsche Messe AG, organisers of HANNOVER MESSE 2024.
“It was an industrial powerhouse because visitors found answers to how they can profitably take advantage of automation, artificial intelligence, hydrogen and many other high-tech solutions, in their factories, thus making them fit for the future. And it has been a future-oriented technology trade fair, since the innovations that drive industrial competitiveness and sustainability were on display here,” he added.
Dr Gunther Kegel, President of the ZVEI association and Chairman of the HANNOVER MESSE Exhibitor Advisory Board, stated, “In the current difficult economic environment, this year’s Hannover Messe is a key morale booster. Companies from the electrical and digital industry have impressively demonstrated how innovations, especially the use of artificial intelligence, are opening up new options for more climate protection and greater efficiency in energy consumption and the use of resources”.
“But also for more optimism. We can confidently take on major social challenges such as curbing global warming if we adopt the right measures and consistently pursue the path towards electrification, digital-
Messe has once again made the innovative strength of our companies visible and thus made an important contribution to strengthening Germany as an industrial location,” he added.
Mr Thilo Brodtmann, Managing Director of the VDMA association, said, “Thinking far beyond day-to-day matters and developing solutions for digital and climate-neutral production – that is the goal of innovative mechanical engineering firms. At this year’s HANNOVER MESSE, they demonstrated how factories can be controlled more intelligently, how climate protection can be achieved more quickly, with modern means of production, and how autonomous systems can make production safer and more efficient on many levels”.
“In addition, biology and its processes will move into production – the first steps here have already been taken. Hannover Messe remains the best place for all these innovations and for a true spirit of
optimism, because manufacturers, customers, political decision-makers and the media come together here in greater numbers than anywhere else,” he added.
From solutions such as the automation of entire production plants, the voice control of machines using AI and the efficient use of hydrogen in industry, to the use of software to record and reduce the carbon footprint, HANNOVER MESSE offered a comprehensive picture of the technological opportunities for the industry of today and tomorrow.
New fields such as the ‘biologisation’ of the economy and carbon management were also brought into focus. And the initiative to create sovereign data spaces for small and medium-sized industrial enterprises under the ‘Manufacturing X’ label is also gaining momentum.
Next year’s event, HANNOVER MESSE 2025, runs from 31 March to 4 April 2025. Canada will be featured as the partner country.
HDB received a total of 16 certifications this year.
Four Tengah Build-To-Order (BTO) projects – Parc Clover @Tengah, Parc Residences @ Tengah, Garden Terrace @ Tengah, and Garden Court @ Tengah – have been awarded the Active, Beautiful, Clean (ABC) Waters Gold certification this year. Another 12 HDB projects have also clinched the ABC Waters Certification this year.
This follows the Rivervale Shores BTO project in Sengkang, which clinched HDB’s first ever ABC Waters Gold certification award in 2018.
Introduced in 2010 by PUB, Singapore’s National Water Agency, the ABC Waters Certification scheme recognises public agencies and private developers who adopt the ABC Waters concept and incorporate ABC Waters design features in their developments. It is evaluated based on four categories – Active, Beauti-
ful, Clean and Innovation.
The ABC Waters Gold certification is the highest accolade awarded by PUB to public agencies and private developers who have set exception-
al standards, particularly in ensuring that surface runoff from at least 40% of their site area is treated by ABC Waters design features before it is channelled to the waterways.
HDB remains the leading developer, with the most ABC Waters-certified projects, since the awards were introduced. Out of the 124 projects which have received ABC Waters Certification, 62 were developed by HDB.
The awards were announced by Senior Minister of State for Sustainability and the Environment, Dr Amy Khor, at the ‘ABC Waters Seminar –Nature-based Solutions for Urban Liveability and Climate Resilience’, held recently as a Partner Event of Singapore International Water Week 2024, organised by PUB and Singapore’s Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment.
The ABC Waters Seminar was co-organised by PUB and the Institution of Engineers, Singapore (IES).
HDB’s Group Director for Design Development, Ar. Choo Chin Hua, said, “We are honoured to have 16 more projects being awarded the ABC Waters Certification this year –the highest number since PUB started the ABC Waters Certification. This further underscores our commitment to provide sustainable and quality homes for Singaporeans”.
“In particular, the first Gold certifications for the projects in Tengah affirm our efforts for Tengah to be Singapore’s first town to have smart and sustainable features planned from the outset. As the master planner and developer of Singapore’s public housing estates, HDB will continue to implement innovative and sustainable concepts and create a quality living environment for residents,” he added.
Over the years, HDB has intensified its efforts in sustainable development, seeking to address challenges such as the effects of climate change, while creating cleaner and more comfortable living environments for residents.
The design and planning of new HDB towns and estates are shaped by the ‘Designing for Life’ roadmap which prioritises residents’ holistic well-being, to create even better homes for the future. One way this
is achieved, is by incorporating biophilic designs, such as ABC Waters features, to bring the restorative benefits of nature right to residents’ doorsteps, to promote mental well-being and community interaction. In line with this vision, all new HDB projects tendered since January 2018 are required to attain ABC Waters Certification.
HDB continues to push boundaries in sustainable development, particularly in Tengah, its 24th and newest town. For example, HDB requires all BTO projects in Tengah to achieve the ABC Waters Gold certification, featuring active community spaces, beautiful landscapes, and clean and sustainable features innovatively integrated throughout the housing developments.
Bringing the beauty of nature closer to residents’ doorsteps
Soothing greens and cascading water landscapes have been incorporated into the design of the four Tengah BTO projects, at the ground level, in the form of rain gardens and vegetated swales, as well as through skyrise greenery such as rooftop gardens and sky terraces. These landscapes not only beautify and soften the urban environment, they also reduce ambient temperatures and cool the environment.
For example, at Parc Clover @ Tengah, roof gardens and plantings on the vertical facade of the multi-storey carpark enhance the overall greenery in the development, while
delivering a varied visual experience.
In designing the landscaping, flowering plants have been selected to engage the senses of sight and smell, promoting the mental well-being of residents. Many of the plant species used in each of the Tengah projects are native flowering species, which include orange jasmine (Murraya paniculata), crepe ginger (Cheilocostus speciosus), Lengkuas (Alpinia galanga) and Pongame oil tree (Pongamia pinnata).
Besides beautifying the landscape for residents and providing habitats for flora and fauna, like birds and butterflies, these native species are better adapted to the local climate and require less watering, once
established. They also serve as a teaching tool for children and adults alike, to learn about the natural ecology and history of the region, and foster a deeper appreciation and understanding of local ecosystems.
Leveraging green features to keep the water clean
Landscape features, such as rain gardens, vegetated swales and bioretention lawns, also serve a dual function, to manage and clean rainwater and surface runoff from the developments, which helps reduce water consumption and keep Singapore’s water clean.
Across the four Gold-certified BTO
projects in Tengah, the ABC Waters landscape features help to treat stormwater runoff for at least 45% of each development’s footprint. This exceeds the ABC Waters Gold award’s requirement for surface runoff from at least 40% of the site area to be treated by the ABC Waters design features.
At Parc Clover @ Tengah, for example, runoff from an extensive 64% of the site area will be treated by ABC Waters design features before the water is channelled to the waterways.
Activating green and blue landscapes
Besides their practical uses, the green and blue landscapes in each project will also help to activate and facilitate the building of stronger community bonds. Daily-use community facilities, such as playgrounds, fitness corners, seating areas and precinct pavilions, are located next to or within the naturalistic landscapes, creating a cooler and more conducive environment for residents and visitors to engage in activities and bond with each other.
For example, residents in Parc Clover @ Tengah can look forward to fitness and community spaces located alongside ABC Waters design features on the sky park. At Parc Clover @ Tengah and Parc Residences @ Tengah, residents will also have access to a central plaza and an outdoor plaza, respectively, where community activities can be held.
Besides incorporating ABC Waters design features at the precinct level, the upcoming Tengah Pond also exemplifies the ABC Waters concept at the town level. Located in Tengah South, the pond will serve as a centralised retention facility to temporarily hold stormwater runoff from the southern part of Tengah during storm events, enhancing flood resilience by slowing the discharge of stormwater to public drains.
Apart from its stormwater management function, Tengah Pond will also provide community spaces and facilities that bring people closer to
water. When completed, the Promenade Park located along the northern edge of Tengah Pond will offer residents direct access to various recreational facilities, such as nature play gardens and fitness facilities. Residents will also enjoy picturesque views from sheltered or landscaped seating spaces around the pond, where they can relax and unwind.
With Tengah Pond, HDB’s newest town in Tengah remains one of the few HDB towns to have a major water body, serving both the functional needs of large-scale storm water management over a wide area, as well as providing an aesthetically pleasing green and blue landscape, and a highly liveable environment.
Residents of other Tengah BTO projects can look forward to these ABC Waters design features in their projects, as the projects are currently at various stages of application and submission for PUB’s ABC Waters Certification. With more developments and facilities progressively being completed, Tengah is on track to realising its vision as a smart and sustainable town.
All images by HDB
Parc Clover @Tengah
Garden Terrace @ Tengah
Parc Residences @ Tengah
Garden Court @ Tengah
Keat Hong Verge
Woodleigh Glen
Kim Keat Beacon
Tampines GreenGlade
Ubi Grove
Northshore Edge
Tampines Green Court
Woodleigh Village
Whampoa Park
Champions Green
Limbang Shopping Centre
Tampines GreenSpring
ABC Waters Certified (Gold)
ABC Waters Certified (Gold)
ABC Waters Certified (Gold)
ABC Waters Certified (Gold)
ABC Waters Certified
ABC Waters Certified
ABC Waters Certified
ABC Waters Certified
ABC Waters Certified
ABC Waters Certified
ABC Waters Certified
ABC Waters Certified
ABC Waters Certified
ABC Waters Certified
ABC Waters Certified
ABC Waters Certified
The key achievements and contributions of a global leader in advanced pump solutions.
Grundfos, a global leader in advanced pump solutions and water technologies, recently celebrated 40 years of operations in Singapore. Led by a commitment to drive sustainability through innovation, the company is contributing to the green transition of Singapore and beyond, by investing in research & development, strategic partnerships and talent.
Established in 1984, Grundfos Singapore has grown to become a key driver in the organisation’s global operations. With advanced and integrated manufacturing, assembly and testing capabilities, Grundfos Singapore also plays an integral role as the global headquarters of Grundfos’ Commercial Building Services (CBS) division.
Poul Due Jensen, Group President & CEO, Grundfos, said, “As Grundfos commemorates four decades of success in Singapore, we are grateful for the opportunity to celebrate this milestone alongside our talented team, dedicated partners and valued customers who have trusted us every step of the way. Sustainability, innovation and collaboration have been the cornerstones of our journey in Singapore, and they will continue to guide us, as we leverage our experience and expertise to solve global water and climate challenges.”
Pioneering sustainable water innovation for 40 years
Grundfos Singapore has been at the forefront of water innovation over the last four decades, offering solutions for customers across diverse segments, including domestic and commercial buildings, industries and water utilities.
Notably, the company’s energy-efficient and smart pumps and pumping solutions have contributed to Singapore’s sustainable de-
velopment journey, enabling key landmarks, such as Gardens by the Bay, Marina Bay Sands and Resorts World Sentosa, to optimise water and energy use.
Grundfos’ solutions have enabled over 300 buildings, ranging from hotels and shopping centres to hospitals and educational institutions, to achieve a Gold rating and above, under the Building and Construction Authority’s (BCA) Green Mark certi-
fication scheme.
Singapore’s thriving innovation ecosystem has been a springboard for Grundfos’ advanced water solutions, impacting Southeast Asia and beyond. In 2019, Grundfos launched its Distributed Pumping System in Asia, marking a first-of-its-kind approach to sustainable cooling. The first two pilots utilising the system were conducted in Grundfos’ Singapore facility and Ngee Ann Polytech-
nic’s Environmental & Water Technology Centre of Innovation, and the solution has since been rolled out in neighbouring countries such as Thailand.
Recognising Singapore’s potential as a global hub for sustainability innovation, Grundfos’ CBS division also unveiled its new Singapore Innovation Hub, in November 2023, to pioneer future solutions for energy-efficient commercial buildings. The facility brings Grundfos’ R&D capabilities closer to customers and the market, while serving as a platform for collaboration with industry partners, customers and researchers, to co-develop energy- and water-efficient smart solutions, particularly in cooling applications.
Amplifying impact through local partnerships
Grundfos recognises the power of collaboration in accelerating sustainability efforts and scaling impact. The company actively cultivates strategic partnerships with like-minded organisations and communities across Singapore’s public and private sectors, leveraging shared expertise and experiences to propel the industry forward.
Grundfos also works closely with Institutes of Higher Learning in Singapore to co-create energy- and water-efficient smart solutions. As an industry partner to Singapore Polytechnic, Grundfos provides counsel on achieving a green campus and
works with the polytechnic’s staff and students to co-develop smart solutions that support industries in their sustainability drive, through collaboration, talent development and sustainability education.
Similarly, Grundfos’ partnership with Ngee Ann Polytechnic also taps on complementary expertise and knowledge to support sustainable urbanisation in Southeast Asia.
Championing sustainability in operations and communities
In November 2022, Grundfos became the world’s first water solutions company with approved net-zero Science-Based targets, in accordance with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi).
At its Jalan Tukang facility, Grundfos Singapore is taking steps to further green its BCA Green Mark Gold rated infrastructure and building operations.
A key initiative was the installation of a photovoltaics (PV) power plant which is projected to achieve a 120% energy gain and reduce the facility's carbon footprint by 493 t of CO2 per year.
Grundfos Singapore’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond its own operations. The team actively engages in community and volunteering initiatives that make a positive impact in Singapore and regionally.
Eric Lai, Regional Managing Director, Industry – APAC & Country Director for Singapore, Grundfos, said, “Singapore’s journey to sustainability has been a remarkable one, and we are honoured to have been a part of it for the past 40 years”.
“This shared vision has pushed us to constantly innovate and develop solutions that make a difference, and we are proud to grow our talent pool by more than 6% in the past year and launch our new Sustainability Lab within our iSOLUTIONS Digital Lab in Singapore, as part of our commitment. We look forward to continuing working alongside our partners and customers to accelerate innovation in water and energy efficiency, shaping a greener future for all,” he added.
Mr Bent Jensen, CEO, Commercial Building Services, Grundfos, highlights the challenges ahead and the approaches to finding and implementing solutions.
The Singapore Engineer (TSE): What are the trends in the region and, specifically, in Singapore, relating to the greening of buildings?
Mr Bent Jensen (BJ): Singapore’s temperature is currently rising at an alarming rate – double the global average. Apart from deforestation and the background global warming, ongoing urbanisation has also been cited as one of the key drivers of this trend [1].
As residents seek relief from the rising temperatures, reliance on cooling systems in the urban environment (such as air-conditioning) climbs even higher. This creates a double-edged sword, where cool comfort comes with further contribution to heat generation, as the use of air-conditioning systems unfortunately requires vast amounts of water and energy. Against that backdrop, the pressure to green new and existing buildings is now higher than before.
Singapore’s government has taken a strong stance on addressing this issue – establishing a Green Building Master Plan with three key targets. This plan mandates for 80% of all buildings in the country to be green by 2030, with 80% of new developments constructed as super-low energy buildings. The final target pertains to an 80% improvement in energy efficiency in best-in-class green buildings (compared to 2005 levels) by 2030 [2].
To accelerate the adoption of environmentally friendly building technologies and building design practices, the Building and Construction Authority of Singapore (BCA) has also developed Green Mark Incentive Schemes which can lower barriers to their incorporation by building owners, through cash or gross floor area incentives.
We are also seeing an increasing trend towards sustainable princi-
ples and innovations being incorporated into the construction of buildings. Industry players will likely be pivoted towards modular and prefabricated solutions that involve the production of standardised components offsite, before they are assembled on-site. Compared to the project-based construction approach that is currently used, this product-based approach will help us achieve greater resource efficiency and drastically reduced project timelines.
More buildings in Singapore are also implementing smart systems with sensors and artificial intelligence [3] – these are especially helpful in managing their utilities, particularly given the rise in costs from increased carbon taxes and the goods and services tax hike.
Here at Grundfos, by tapping into the Internet of Things (IoT) and moving building operations towards digitalisation, our Commercial Buildings Services (CBS) division is committed to introducing cleaner, more energy-efficient technologies that can help the built environment sector reduce its energy consumption and overall carbon footprint.
TSE: How can water play a role in maximising energy efficiency and how can building operations optimise this?
BJ: As the world experiences a steep growth in population, GDP, and infrastructure (particularly in many emerging economies), the demand for water is expected to increase, potentially by 20% to 50%, by 2050 [4]. Given that vast amounts of energy are consumed at every stage of the water supply, treatment, use and disposal, the energy used by the water sector, currently at 4% of global electricity consumption, is expected to more than double by 2040 [5].
This water-energy intersection is where our potential to change the global climate agenda lies. As the world population grows, so does the need to move and recycle greater amounts of water, faster, using less energy and providing better access.
Specifically in commercial buildings, the heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems can account for 25% to 45% of a building’s water consumption [6], contributing up to 40% of the building’s total energy use. Ensuring that water is being utilised efficiently in the HVAC system can thus have a sizeable impact on the building’s overall energy efficiency.
Incorporating intelligent technologies, like Grundfos’ Distributed Pumping System, can help building solution providers intelligently regulate the distribution of chilled water flow in buildings to meet changing cooling demands.
In fact, to meet the sustainable cooling needs of Singapore’s Ngee Ann Polytechnic, the solution was installed in the campus’ Block 22 – a move that resulted in impressive energy savings exceeding 50% and a delta T improvement of 2.5 °C, thanks to the system’s ability to balance the supply and demand of chilled water, while ensuring optimal building comfort at all times.
Building operators can also aim to optimise the buildings’ pump systems which are central to the water and cooling system of a building, running 24/7 and consuming significant energy, year-round. They are also responsible for all water management processes, such as potable water supply, wastewater removal, and even fire protection.
Installing smart pumps, such as Grundfos’ premium NKE range of
end-suction pumps which can instinctively adjust operations, based on changes in demand, ensures that pump systems run only when needed. This can potentially halve the amount of electricity consumed by traditional pumps that operate at a constant rate.
Efficient usage of water also goes beyond energy-efficient components working in silos – it is about how an entire system can work together cohesively to ensure the optimisation of resources. Online management systems, such as the Grundfos Remote Management, intelligently manage water flows, through the interconnectivity of pumps, sensors and meters, on an internet-based system, and where changes in a pump’s performance and energy consumption can be monitored and tracked.
TSE: How is Grundfos contributing to the achievement of Singapore’s net zero target?
BJ: We see ourselves as a trusted partner in Singapore’s net-zero journey, supporting the republic’s sustainable development journey over the last 40 years of our operations here. Our sustainability ambitions are fully aligned with the
commitments we have made to international standards and regulatory frameworks such as the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi).
In fact, in 2022, we became the first company in the water sector to have its net-zero target for 2050 approved by SBTi. Additionally, despite the fact that the majority of our CO2 emissions stem from product use, we successfully reduced our overall CO2 emissions by 9.5% in 2023. We also enabled our customers to save an estimated 1.6 billion m3 of water in their operations, in the same year.
Recognising the country’s strong potential in becoming a hub for green innovation, we have relocated the global headquarters of our CBS division into the heart of Asia – to Singapore. The move, made in April 2023, comes off the back of heightened demand for resource-efficient solutions to foster a sustainable built environment in Singapore and the region.
To address the region’s growing need for sustainable cooling solutions, Grundfos has also established the Singapore Innovation Hub in November 2023, to spearhead the development of innovative, energy-efficient systems and solutions for commercial buildings, specifically focusing on cooling applications in the first instance.
Leveraging our extensive expertise in energy-efficient water solutions, we aim to continue contributing to the net zero push in Singapore and
beyond, by educating and empowering businesses in their sustainability journey, as well as sharing and developing expertise to advance the water solutions industry.
Although many businesses are aware of the importance of going green, there is a need to accelerate their next step – to determine what exactly they can improve on and how can they do so. Here at Grundfos, our energy consultants are able to provide initial energy checks on existing pumping systems to demonstrate the amount of savings a company can potentially achieve.
Businesses that would like to perform a more comprehensive analysis on their systems can also follow up with an Energy Audit which can provide them with exact measurements and suitable pump solutions for their operations. Thanks to this, we were able to help global hotel brands in the region, Hilton Hua Hin and Le Méridien Chiang Rai Resort, optimise their systems and reduce their energy consumption, by 36% and 35%, respectively.
As of today, Grundfos’ water- and energy-efficient solutions can be found installed in numerous buildings across Singapore, many of which have been certified with the Green Mark. The buildings range from shopping malls to educational institutions and from hospitals to resorts. These efforts work to fulfil targets listed under the Singapore Green Plan’s Green Buildings segment, under the Energy Reset pillar [7].
While the range of existing technologies and solutions available offer significant benefits in greening our buildings, fostering continuous innovation in this space is equally crucial to maximise and sustain their impact, in order to move towards Singapore’s net zero target. To that end, Grundfos has been actively establishing collaborations with institutions in the region, allowing us to grow our expertise by leveraging strengths of local experts as well as to inspire the next generation of talents who can further accelerate our (and the industry’s) sustainable endeavours.
Grundfos’ Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Singapore’s Ngee Ann Polytechnic (NP), signed in 2022, was a key move that helps us in this arena. The MoU involves the co-development of energy- and water-efficient smart solutions that will contribute to a more resilient and sustainable built environment across Southeast Asia, through collaboration, talent development and sustainability education.
Proving to be a win-win, the MoU enables staff and students, from NP, to receive greater industry exposure in the areas of sustainability, and experience, first-hand, innovative new technologies, while Grundfos benefits from leveraging NP’s academic rigour and knowledge to improve our sustainability credentials.
TSE: Any other information that you would like to provide?
BJ: A key milestone since the relocation of Grundfos CBS’ global headquarters to Singapore was the launch of the Grundfos’ Singapore Innovation Hub in November 2023. The hub aims to spearhead the development of innovative, energy-efficient systems and solutions for commercial buildings, specifically focusing on cooling applications, in the first instance.
This strategic decision was made so that we can better serve our customers in Asia Pacific, where the fastest growing use of energy in buildings is for cooling, and regional electricity demand for space cooling is projected to quadruple from 2017 to 2040 [8].
Some of the hub’s key initiatives include adding digital enablers to our cooling solutions so that they can work hand-in-hand with digital platforms. To stay at the forefront of energy optimisation, future modular concepts and AI algorithms or enhanced embedded intelligence are also areas that we will be exploring.
Our Singapore Innovation Hub will also explore the application of distributed pumping, which offers better control of hydronic chilled water systems, and which can help unlock a new level of energy savings in a chilled water system, while maintaining the highest possible comfort. Coupled with the implementation of intelligent solutions, we will potentially eliminate the need for balancing, ensuring that buildings can perform at the highest level for many years.
Additionally, we will also look to co-develop a hydronic balancing concept in District Cooling with customers and educational institutions, that will help us save significantly on both power consumption and thermal energy.
Deep diving into the region’s unique challenges in the built environment, our CBS division has been establishing collaborations with industry associations such as Asia Pacific Urban Energy Association, as well as gaining insights straight from
our customers.
We look forward to incorporating these learnings into exciting initiatives we currently have in our pipeline, to deliver water- and energy-efficient solutions in Singapore and beyond.
References
[1] Eco-Business (19 March 2024): ‘Heat stress could sap $1.7 billion a year from Singapore economy by 2035: study’.
[2] Ministry of National Development (no date): ‘Singapore Green Building Masterplan’.
[3] Channel News Asia (18 July 2023): ‘More buildings putting in AI, smart sensors to manage utilities, cut costs’.
[4] National Intelligence Council’s Strategic Futures Group (March 2021): ‘The Future of Water: Water Insecurity Threatening Global Economic Growth, Political Stability’.
[5] Smart Water Magazine (5 March 2024): ‘Exploring the Water-Energy Nexus on World Energy Efficiency Day 2024’.
[6] Aquachem (no date): ‘The importance of water treatment in HVAC systems’.
[7] Singapore Green Plan 2030 (no date): ‘Energy Reset’.
[8] International Energy Agency (April 2022): ‘Roadmap towards Sustainable and Energy-Efficient Space Cooling in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations’.
Grundfos recently announced that it has achieved a Platinum medal rating from EcoVadis. This recognition places Grundfos in the top 1% of companies rated worldwide, showcasing its commitment to sustainable business practices.
EcoVadis is one of the world’s largest and most trusted providers of business sustainability ratings, assessing more than 130,000 companies’ actions and practices on their corporate and social responsibility.
Using its international standards, EcoVadis has evaluated Grundfos across four key areas – Environment, Labour & Human Rights, Ethics, and Sustainable Procurement – to award the Platinum medal rating.
Since the last assessment (for a Gold medal rating), Grundfos has implemented additional measures and policies to strengthen social and environmental responsibility across the value chain. At the same time, the company has made significant progress towards both water and climate ambitions, reflecting the company's ongoing commitment to sustainability and continuous improvement.
“We are very proud of the Platinum rating, which I would like to dedicate to our hard working and dedicated colleagues worldwide. It encourages us to keep pushing ourselves to enhance our ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) practices that include progressing towards net zero by 2050, fostering a fair, inclusive, and safe working environment, enforcing strong ethical business standards, and ensuring sustainable procurement across our entire value chain,” said Ms Louise Koch, Senior Director, Group Head of Sustainability, Grundfos.
by Patrik Eurenius, Head of Sustainability and EHS, Sandvik Coromant
New features added to a productivity tool can now assist in measuring energy consumption.
When legendary management consultant, Peter F Drucker, said in his book, The Effective Executive, “what gets measured, gets improved”, he would likely have never pictured the ways in which we measure today. To be data-driven is the ambition of many manufacturers – but how many are measuring their sustainability credentials?
At the UN’s COP28 climate conference in 2023, world leaders debated what an agreement to end the use of fossil fuels could look like. In the end, it was agreed that the world would work towards “transitioning away from fossil fuels in energy systems in a just, orderly and equitable manner”.
While a step away from the initial discourse around the complete ‘phasing out’ of fossil fuels, the very inclusion of the subject of fossil fuels in net zero plans was seen as a landmark moment.
Fossil fuels account for one-fifth of global carbon emissions and 54% of the world’s energy usage. Tackling the reliance on fossil fuels in the manufacturing and production sector will undoubtedly support global environmental goals.
Historically, the way that companies measure sustainability has been subjected to accusations that it is fluff rather than fact. That is because, in the past, sustainability metrics have not been regarded as highly as other business metrics such as financial data. But that is all set to change.
The detail is in the data
Businesses that focus on sustainability tend to see great rewards. Embedding metrics such as on waste generation, carbon emissions and energy usage into business strategy
is essential to meeting customer demand, regulatory requirements and investor preferences. An emphasis on sustainability has also been proven to attract top talent, reduce costs and boost financial profits.
However, despite its benefits, businesses still struggle to showcase their credentials. Research published by the World Economic Forum revealed that, while 90% of executives believe sustainability is important, only 60% of organisations have sustainability strategies in place.
What is the biggest sticking point? To paraphrase Drucker, what is not being measured, simply cannot be improved upon. To reduce reliance on fossil fuels, tackle greenhouse gas emissions and limit the production of waste, manufacturers need access to the right data.
An upgrade on analytics
To help its customers capture, measure and use their data, Sandvik Coromant offers a Productivity Analyser. Used to illustrate the direct and indirect benefits of smart machine tooling, such as increased productivity, higher rate of return and increased machine utilisation, the Productivity Analyser provides customers with a detailed breakdown of their tool use and its impact on their operations.
Data is delivered through a reporting system which outlines the exact savings customers can make by using Sandvik Coromant tools and features suggestions for further improvement.
Alone, the Productivity Analyser has been successful. In 2023, Sandvik Coromant created 6,096 productivity reports that, in total, have helped customers save 1.948
million hours of production. Now, Sandvik Coromant is adding new features into the tool to help customers measure their energy consumption and carbon footprint.
The analyser will feature a new page of sustainability data, including the energy consumption per component in kilowatt hours (kWh), the energy consumption per year and the amount of CO 2 emissions generated per year. To help determine these metrics, Sandvik Coromant will be adding some additional test parameters to its analysing process.
These include efficiency, measured by the amount of energy input on the spindle used for cutting processes; the price of energy in the manufacturer’s local area and the carbon intensity of that energy; the amount of power required to run a machine outside of its normal cutting requirements; geometrical data on tools; and the material hardness of the machined component.
The Productivity Analyser then sends this test data to the CoroPlus Tool Guide, where the calculations are made and the sustainability results are sent back to the analyser. Sandvik Coromant can then give customers exact figures on energy consumption (kWh), energy cost savings and CO2 emissions. Adding sustainability data is possible for any new tests run through the Productivity Analyser, or for existing ones that have already been created.
In one test case, when analysing the performance of a leading automotive manufacturer, the sustainability analyser helped facilitate a 15% increase in productivity. This was made possible through deep
analysis into the customer’s machine cost, tool cost, energy cost, total emissions and several other key metrics.
Sandvik Coromant was able to take the customer’s production data and recommend, for instance, a reduction in energy consumption per component from 0.92 kWh to 0.71 kWh. Equipped with this data, the customer is now able to make better informed decisions to reduce the carbon footprint.
With this new level of insight into their operations, customers will be able to better understand the impact of their production. However, having this knowledge is not the
end of the story. Knowing more about a facility’s carbon footprint is only the starting point – what manufacturers do with that data makes the impact.
At Sandvik Coromant, we take our own holistic view on sustainability. Our brand mission, Manufacturing Wellness, encompasses a variety of habits we believe manufacturers must have, in order to be successful and resilient. We believe that following these habits will steer us, our partners and our customers, towards a state of wellness.
One habit is eliminating waste. A key element in efficient manufacturing is to eliminate anything that does not add value or contribute to the output. This can include the re-
Another key habit we seek to practise is to unlock the potential with data. We believe successful manufacturers are those who recognise data as a primary asset for their companies, and use it to make the right decisions. While the data we deliver through our analyser cannot tell our customers exactly what to do to reduce their emissions, it offers a guiding hand that helps them make better informed decisions.
duction of scrap material as well as wasted energy through inefficient machine use.
Sandvik Coromant supports this with the reduction of waste in our own facilities and, through initiatives such as our global buy-back scheme, allowing customers to sell their used metal cutting tools back to Sandvik Coromant for recycling.
Another key habit we seek to practise is to unlock the potential with data. We believe successful manufacturers are those who recognise data as a primary asset for their companies, and use it to make the right decisions. While the data we deliver through our analyser cannot tell our customers exactly what to do to reduce their emissions, it offers a guiding hand that helps them make better informed decisions.
It is no secret that the manufacturing industry must act to reduce its carbon footprint. However, little can be improved if it is not measured correctly. Having a true, data-driven picture of where a manufacturer is right now will help guide them to where they need to be in a net zero future.
Offering customers the ability to measure the emissions output of their machining operations means that we can deliver the foundations for a more sustainable future.
by Hwee Yng Yeo, E-Mobility Advocate / Industry and Solutions Marketing Manager, Keysight Technologies
It will include developing the ability to test thousands of battery cells at any one time.
The electric vehicle battery is one of the critical automotive technologies that have been successfully scaled to support the e-mobility boom, with the average EV battery pack costing USD 153/kWh in 2022 – a 90% price drop over a 15-year period.
Looking ahead, the automotive industry expects demand for Lithium-ion cells to grow, by some 33%, to 4,700 GWh, by the end of this decade.
More affordable EV batteries will help bring about price parity between an EV and an internal combustion engine car, sooner rather than later. However, keeping a check on battery costs is a constant challenge because of rising raw material, supply chain and energy costs, particularly with cell manufacturing being an energy-intensive process.
Technological innovations play a big role in contributing to the inverse relationship between plummeting prices and soaring demand for EV batteries. Cost pressures
aside, battery technology must continue to evolve to support the dynamic e-mobility ecosystem.
Evolving roles of the EV battery Figure 1 provides an overview of the e-mobility ecosystem and illustrates how the battery is impacted as the ecosystem evolves.
With reference to Figure 1, on the right, both automakers and battery developers have to create EV batteries that meet consumer expectations for longer ranges. On a macro level, higher capacity and longer-life batteries will support the integration of vehicle electrification into real-world applications for a circular battery economy, to reduce waste and pollution.
In Figure 1, on the left, we have an overview of the evolving smart grid which affects how the electric vehicle battery will transform, from a one-way ‘sink’ that draws energy from charging stations, to a twoway or bidirectional vehicle-to-grid (V2G) enabled power source.
Designing for battery performance EV battery cells come with different form factors – cylindrical, pouch and prismatic. Fundamentally though, the initial development phases are similar. Cell developers must characterise, select and optimise the cell chemistries and materials, through research and development.
Meeting the expectations for longer range, faster charging, and future-ready V2G capabilities, starts at the battery cell chemistry level. Depending on the battery performance specifications, cell developers need to analyse how each electrochemical cocktail will perform (examples are shown in Figure 2).
The modern battery test laboratory must be able to test thousands of cells at any one time, and accurately measure the actual performance of different cell designs, to see if they meet design goals (Figure 3).
In designing and testing batteries, the battery design manager must consider how to juggle various test parameters for different applica-
tions, when the cells are eventually assembled into modules and packs to power vehicles.
Applications can range from two-wheeler motorcycles to sedans, sports utility models and heavy transport vehicles. The batteries for each end-user market are designed to meet different needs and will re-
quire different test set-ups. Hence, the test environment must be able to support the required voltage, channels and safety requirements (Figure 4).
Tests that need to be done to verify the battery’s performance, at the cell, module and pack levels, involve the following:
• Recording different temperatures, to investigate the reciprocal electrical and thermal influence of the cells.
• Checking the mechanical connections and the performance of the module.
• Communicating with the vehicles’ battery management system.
Increasing role of automated management in the battery test lab
Figure 5 provides a simple visualisation of the different roles and tasks in a battery test lab. With the vast number of devices under test, lab managers can no longer rely on manual tracking and spreadsheets to manage a modern battery test lab.
Automating lab operations is essential to ensure efficient time and resource management, provide tracking and traceability, as well as
improve testing throughput. With vast facilities and different sites, cloud-based lab operation management tools allow visibility and controlled accessibility of the state of battery testing operations. The test data collected from the devices under test can also be used to enhance design iterations.
Ensuring quality from blueprint to production
Once the new battery cell design is ready, it enters the mass produc-
tion step which is evolving rapidly. According to a McKinsey report, if demand for battery cells continues to increase at 30% annually, the global market will need another 90 gigafactories, of current capacity, to support vehicle electrification over the next decade.
As the Americas and Europe catch up with China and Korea, to manufacture electric vehicle batteries closer to their end-markets, billions of dollars are poured into ramping up gigafactory production which is
a complex process, as illustrated in Figure 6.
There are many set-up challenges for a gigafactory, including location, budget, access to raw materials, manufacturing systems and human resources. However, let us focus on the intricacies of building better batteries from the cell-level up.
In any high-volume manufacturing environment, throughput is a vital barometer of productivity. In the Lithium-ion cell manufacturing process, the cell formation and ageing stages are the most time-consuming. During cell ageing, manufacturers must measure the cell’s self-discharge rate, even when it is not connected to any device. The purpose is to sieve out errant cells that exhibit abnormal or excessive self-discharge, since such ‘bad’ cells adversely affect the performance of modules and packs.
A cell can take days, weeks, or months to exhibit its self-discharge characteristics. However, in a timeand cost-sensitive manufacturing environment, the traditional way of tracking self-discharge over time is
not practical.
Instead, some manufacturers now use a relatively new potentiostatic measurement method to directly measure the cell’s internal self-discharge current. This method typically takes hours, compared with the traditional method of waiting for days or weeks, to log the cell’s self-discharge performance, thereby saving time and precious floor space for holding the cells for this vital quality gate check.
New technology is creating more powerful battery cells that can charge faster. These cells need to undergo cycling, where cell samples are tested to determine the cell’s cycle life and how the charge rate affects the cell’s life. As cell capacity quickly increases, researchers and manufacturers need to source and sink larger currents.
To circumvent costly power consumption, modern cell cyclers employ regenerative power, where power generated during cell discharge is recycled back to the grid, thereby reducing net energy consumption, to lower the operating
costs. This process also generates less heat in the electronics, reducing the need to remove heat from the production facility.
Future-proofing battery test technology
As vehicle electrification continues to build momentum, battery developers and manufacturers must anticipate and respond to new requirements in their battery testing capabilities. These include planning for equipment that can handle higher cell capacity and source/sink larger currents, with regenerative power capabilities to lower operating costs.
Some manufacturers are also adopting modular and location-independent ‘superchambers’ to reduce their battery test investment time and costs, while allowing them the ability to scale up for rapid deployment in tandem with demand.
These exciting innovations will undoubtedly help to further scale the development and production of better batteries to power the adoption of electric vehicles.
Artificial Intelligence appears in the conversation for the first time.
HID, a worldwide leader in trusted identity solutions, recently announced its 2024 State of Security Industry Report which gathered responses from 2,600 partners, end-users, and security and IT personnel, worldwide, across a range of job titles and organisation sizes, representing over 11 industries.
The 2024 State of Security Report delves into the underlying concerns driving upcoming innovations and the technologies that underpin them, helping security leaders to be proactive in adapting to evolving challenges. Conducted in the fall of 2023, this year’s survey reveals the following six themes:
• Mobile identity is expected to be ubiquitous in the next five years Given the widespread use of mobile devices, momentum continues to
build around their use in support of identity. Within the next five years, surveyed end-users state that nearly 80% of organisations will deploy mobile IDs. Industry partners are even more optimistic in their outlook, stating that 94% of their customers will have deployed mobile IDs.
• Multi-Factor Authentication is widespread, despite slow but growing implementation of Zero Trust
More than 83% of end-user respondents said their organisations currently use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), mainly due to the vulnerabilities of passwords.
For many, this represents the first step on the longer journey towards Zero Trust, an approach to security, that calls for organisations to maintain strict access controls and
to never trust and always verify anyone – internal or external – by default. Zero Trust has been implemented in 16% of organisations with over 100,000 employees, and 14% of those with up to 10,000 employees, according to the survey.
With MFA being widespread, the eventual end of passwords is imminent. The creation of new standards such as FIDO (Fast Identity Online), which uses ‘standard public key cryptography techniques to provide phishing-resistant authentication’, will pave the path to new and more secure authentication options which will be part of a more robust Zero Trust architecture.
• Sustainability becomes a growing driver in business decisions
Among HID’s survey respondents, sustainability continues to rank high
as a business priority, with both end-users and partners rating its importance at a ‘4’ on a 1-to-5 scale. Additionally, 74% of end-users indicate that the importance of sustainability has grown over the past year, and 80% of partners reported the trend growing in importance among their customers.
As such, there will likely be a continued emphasis on solutions that minimise energy use, reduce waste and optimise resource usage. A shift to cloud-based solutions and increased use of mobile devices are two clear strategies to reach these sustainability goals.
• Biometrics continues its impressive momentum
In this year’s survey, 39% of installers and integrators said their customers are using fingerprint or palm print, and 30% said they are using facial recognition. The momentum continues to build, as 8% plan to test or implement some form of biometrics in the next year and 12% plan to do so in the next three to five years.
• Identity management points up to the cloud
Nearly half of end-users are moving to cloud-based identity management, with 24% already using it and another 24% in the process of implementing such systems. Industry partners say their customers face several hurdles here, including existing reliance on legacy/on-prem equipment (28%), lack of budgets (24%), and cloud-based identities simply not being a business priority (21%).
• The rise of Artificial Intelligence for analytics use cases
Conversations about Artificial Intelligence (AI) have come to dominate the business landscape and many security professionals see AI’s analytic capabilities as the low-hanging fruit to enhance identity management. Rather than looking to AI to inform the entirety of the security system, it is possible to leverage data analytics as a way to operationalise AI in support of immediate outcomes. In this scenario, 35% of end-users reported that they will be testing
or implementing some AI capability in the next three to five years, with 15% already using AI-enabled biometrics.
“The increasing digitisation of society and business has created concerns over security and privacy, which are also driving innovations in security, at the same time, such as the increasing adoption of mobile IDs across multiple sectors in Southeast Asia,” said Mr Prabhuraj Patil, Commercial Director, Physical Access Control Solutions, ASEAN and India Subcontinent, HID.
“Mobile IDs enable easy access to secured doors, networks and services, through using a mobile device as a credential, which significantly increases convenience, efficiency and security. Mobile access solutions are also highly customisable to meet diverse needs of organisations, in today’s mobile-first world,” he added.
HID Global Corporation
Headquartered in the US, HID Global Corporation is a member of the ASSA ABLOY Group.
HID, a worldwide leader in trusted identity and biometric solutions, has announced that its advanced imaging technology and U.ARE.U Camera Identification System now works with Amazon Rekognition, a fully managed computer vision cloud service in the identity verification process.
The combination of HID’s U.ARE.U camera with Amazon Rekognition is expected to enable customers to achieve superior results. HID’s technology for capturing faces across widely changing light conditions, backgrounds, expressions and demographics, allows for maximum flexibility in deployment.
In addition, the camera leverages several sensors onboard, to offer built-in liveness detection and can be deployed in
ADA-compliant use cases, leveraging its wide vertical field of view. These features make it particularly suited for self-serve and POS environments found in hospitality, healthcare, sports, entertainment, retail, banking, government, transportation and beyond.
HID now works with the following Amazon Rekognition capabilities:
• Amazon Rekognition Face Detection, which predicts attributes such as bounding box size, pose, brightness, sharpness, eyes open, mouth open and eyeglasses worn, to determine face quality.
• Amazon Rekognition Face Comparison, which measures the similarity of two faces to help determine if they are of the same person.
• Amazon Rekognition Face Index and Search, which creates a face collection of existing users and searches new user selfie pictures.
“This successful collaboration is an example of our commitment to innovation and continued focus on creating value through our technologies,” said Mr Vito Fabbrizio, Managing Director, Biometrics Business Unit, Extended Access Technologies, HID.
“We are proud to work with Amazon’s face recognition technology to meet the best possible performance in challenging environments, such as self-serve and point of sale. The goal is to enable the best possible customer experience without compromising on accuracy and security,” he added.
The 18th edition featured more than 50 events.
Organised by the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), the Singapore Maritime Week 2024 (SMW 2024) was held, from 15 to 19 April 2024, at the Suntec Singapore Convention & Exhibition Centre.
Addressing the theme ‘Actions meet Ambition’, SMW 2024, in its 18th edition, was organised around four pillars – decarbonisation, digitalisation, services, and talent development – and featured more than 50 events.
More than 10,000 maritime professionals from close to 40 countries, including delegates from governments, port authorities, international organisations, as well as industry experts and thought leaders were expected to attend SMW.
In addition, the inaugural Expo@ SMW trade exhibition, which was held, from 16 to 18 April 2024, as part of SMW 2024, showcased maritime solutions by close to 50 companies and startups.
SMW 2024 was launched by Mr Chee Hong Tat, Singapore’s Minister for Transport and Second Minister for Finance. In his speech, Mr Chee highlighted the fact that Maritime Singapore has continued to grow year-on-year – a mark of the industry’s vote of confidence in Singapore, and the strong tripartite relationship between business, workers and the government.
Looking forward, Mr Chee said that Singapore aims to be a global hub for innovation, reliable and resilient maritime operations, and maritime talent, to better serve the current and future needs of stakeholders, and allow Singapore to contribute to global development and sustainability goals, effectively.
A maritime dialogue was held on the topic of Supply Chain Resilience, Digitalisation and Decarbonisation. The panel, comprised Dr Volker Wissing, Federal Minister for Digital
Affairs and Transport, Germany; Mr Even Tronstad Sagebakken, Deputy Minister, Ministry of Trade, Industry and Fisheries, Norway; and Mr Fran cis Zachariae, Secretary-General, In ternational Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities (IALA).
moderated by Professor Simon Tay, Chairman, Singapore Institute of International Affairs, addressed the challenges faced by the maritime sector when dealing with chang es and disruptions, the efforts and measures undertaken by them to prepare the maritime industry and its workforce, and the potential for various stakeholders to work to gether to address these challenges and capture new opportunities.
included Mr Arsenio Dominguez, Secretary-General of the Internation al Maritime Organization (IMO); and Mr Sergio Mujica, Secretary-General of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).
In his first maritime event in Singapore since his appointment as the Secretary-General of the IMO in January 2024, Mr Dominguez delivered a keynote speech at the Singapore Maritime Lecture which was moderated by Ambassador Mary Seet-
Mr Chee Hong Tat, Minister for Transport and Second Minister for Finance launched
safety and wellbeing, particularly in the light of geopolitical changes impacting shipping, and highlighted his vision for IMO to flourish as a transparent, inclusive, diverse institution. He also noted the rapid green and digital transition unfolding in the maritime sector, driven by the targets set by IMO Member States in the IMO 2023 GHG Strategy.
SMW 2024 also brought together
MPA’s Green and Digital Shipping Corridor (GDSC) partners, to discuss GDSC initiatives to support IMO’s Greenhouse Gases (GHGs) emission reduction targets for international shipping. The partners are Australia; six ports in Japan; Port of Los Angeles and Port of Long Beach, in the US; Port of Rotterdam; and Tianjin.
The GDSC initiatives include the development and uptake of zero or near-zero GHG emission fuels at scale along corridor routes, technologies to accelerate decarbonisation, collaboration to enhance operational and digital efficiencies.
Updates were provided on key milestones achieved for the Singapore and Port of Rotterdam and the Singapore and Port of Los Angeles and Port of Long Beach GDSCs.
Collective actions
Underscoring the importance of collective and collaborative efforts to accelerate the transformation of the maritime industry, MPA inked partnerships and agreements with more than 30 partners, during SMW 2024, on areas such as training and cybersecurity. These partners include international organisations, foreign governments and agencies, classification societies, maritime partners, institutes of higher learning, tech companies, trade associations, and unions.
Building a maritime workforce for the future
MPA and 22 partners, including the leading global marine engine manufacturers, also signed a Letter of Intent to establish the Maritime Energy Training Facility (METF). The METF, supported by the tripartite maritime community in Singapore, aims to close the skills and competencies gap for the safe operation of new zero or near-zero emission fuel powered vessels.
To be established as a decentralised network of training facilities based in Singapore, METF will tap on an ecosystem of partners’ assets and training technologies to train the maritime workforce on the safe handling, emergency response and incident management, relating to
the use of future marine fuels such as methanol and ammonia.
MPA also aims to support and contribute to the work of the Maritime Just Transition Task Force (MJTTF), as one of the institutions rolling out the Baseline Training Framework for Seafarers in Decarbonisation – which is under development –through METF.
This will directly contribute to the joint IMO-MJTTF work to develop training provisions for seafarers in support of decarbonisation of shipping, and complements the IMO’s ongoing comprehensive review of the International Convention and Code on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW).
Singapore is currently chairing the IMO Working Group on the comprehensive review of the STCW Convention and Code, established in 2023, under the Sub-Committee on Human Element, Training and Watchkeeping.
With hundreds of crew changes conducted daily in Singapore, METF in Singapore is well placed to deliver cost- and time-efficient crew training for vessel operators and ship management companies as part of their crew change arrangements. METF will be progressively developed by 2026 and is expected to benefit more than 10,000 maritime personnel including seafarers, from now to the 2030s.
Maritime International Advisory Panel meeting
The third Maritime International Advisory Panel (IAP) meeting was convened on 16 April 2024, to dis-
cuss how the maritime ecosystem can be strengthened and maritime digitalisation advanced.
All images by Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and the International Energy Agency (IEA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to deepen the partnership between the two organisations and accelerate maritime decarbonisation and digitalisation.
Singapore became an IEA Association Country in 2016.
The MoU was signed by Mr Teo Eng Dih, Chief Executive of MPA, and Dr Fatih Birol, Executive Director of IEA, and was announced at the Singapore Maritime Week 2024.
In line with the goals of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and international energy and climate targets, MPA and IEA will collaborate to advance the development and transition to zero and near-zero emission fuels, technologies that support maritime decarbonisation, as well as digital technologies that support sustainability solutions.
MPA partners AWS
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) announced a collaboration with Amazon Web Services (AWS), to support the maritime industry’s digital transformation and green transition.
MPA will tap on AWS services including cloud, artificial intelligence (AI), and digital twins, to enhance the industry’s efficiency, safety and sustainability outcomes.
As part of the collaboration, MPA and AWS will develop the maritime Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI–ML) Digital Hub.
The digital hub will leverage AWS cloud to enable the maritime industry to pilot innovative AI and generative AI (GenAI) capabilities to trial on the Green and Digital Shipping Corridors, optimising routes and fuel consumption, carbon emissions accounting and just-in-time arrivals, to help ships operate more efficiently, reduce greenhouse gases emissions and enhance safety of operations.
MPA will also tap the Amazon Sustainability Data Initiative to accelerate sustainability research and innovation, by minimising the cost and time required to acquire and analyse large sustainability datasets.
To develop the industry’s AI capabilities, MPA and AWS will also conduct training, incubation initiatives and immersion programmes, to equip maritime industry employees and stakeholders, particularly those in small and medium enterprises (SMEs), with cloud, data, and AI skills.
Piloting use of the digital ship identity
At the event, MPA also signed a MoU with S&P Global Market Intelligence and Bunkerchain, to use the Port of Singapore as the test bed to trial and pilot the use of digital ship identity in maritime applications such as digital port clearance and digital bunkering.
When deployed in tandem with electronic signatures, these digital technologies will eliminate the need for physical ship stamps and wet ink signatures, and accelerate the transition towards truly digital, secure and paperless operations.
Enhancing digital capabilities
To strengthen vessel navigational safety and efficiency of the port, MPA is developing an AI-enabled Next Generation Vessel Traffic Management System (NGVTMS).
In April 2024, MPA awarded the NGVTMS prototyping tender to three key global players for Vessel Traffic Management (Tidalis BV, Kongsberg Norcontrol AS, and Wartsila Singapore Pte Ltd), to develop prototypes at MPA’s Maritime Innovation Lab 2.0 over the next 15 months, before embarking on fullscale development of the system.
In the space domain, MPA is developing a Satellite Resource Management Platform (SRMP) to capture satellite images for time-critical missions, quickly.
Through tools using AI, the SRMP will streamline the process of comparing and recommending the satellite type, imaging mode and resolution, suitable for the mission. The new system will then perform automated object detection, reducing the time needed to acquire images.
MPA, together with Esri Singapore, A*STAR’s (Agency for Science, Technology and Research) Institute of High Performance Computing, and the Technology Centre for Offshore and Marine, Singapore, developed a digital twin proof-of-concept of a methanol bunkering leak incident.
Launch of Maritime Singapore Startup Ecosystem Map Motion Ventures and PIER71, supported by MPA, launched the Maritime Singapore Startup Ecosystem Map 2024. The map showcases the
active Singapore-based MarineTech startups, according to their focus areas.
By displaying the MarineTech startups on a single interface, the map will help maritime companies, technology companies, or venture capitalists discover startups or potential MarineTech solutions, encourage information sharing, and create networks and opportunities for collaboration in the maritime sector.
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) signed two Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) at the Accelerating Decarbonisation and Digitalisation Conference, during the Singapore Maritime Week 2024.
The first MoU, signed between MPA, Estonia-based Tallinn University of Technology (TalTech), Foundation CR14, Singapore Maritime Institute (SMI), and Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD), aims to enhance cybersecurity in the maritime industry, in particular, through joint cybersecurity research and development, test bedding and skills training projects.
The second MoU, signed between MPA, Singapore Shipping Association (SSA), Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) and SUTD, aims to improve collaboration and information sharing on cybersecurity among maritime companies, develop maritime cybersecurity capabilities and strengthen the cybersecurity talent pipeline.
ST Engineering’s joint-venture company with Peluca (formerly known as Wigetworks), ST Engineering AirX (AirX), will collaborate with the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) on the trials to be performed for AirX’s AirFish Wingin-Ground (WIG) craft in Singapore.
AirX intends to trial both the single-engine and the dual-engine AirFish 8 prototypes, which can seat up to eight passengers. Vessels, like the WIG craft, which operate just above the sea surface, by using ‘ground effect’, are governed by guidelines from the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
‘Ground effect’ is the term used to describe the positive influence on the lifting characteristics of an aircraft’s wing, when it is close to the ground. This is because air beneath a wing is compressed by proximity to the ground, creating a cushioning effect and increasing the lift generated by the aircraft’s wing. This is the same principle of flight used by large-bodied birds, such as the albatross, to conserve energy while staying in the air.
The WIG craft utilises the same collision avoidance rules as conventional ships and is much faster, more fuel-efficient and hence more sustainable, compared to conventional ships.
The collaboration is a step towards realising the potential of such technology in areas such as maritime transportation and logistics services.
Sea trials in Singapore AirX will work with MPA to identify an area off Changi, Singapore, for the conduct of the trials. MPA will also ensure that measures are in place, so that port operations will not be affected during the trials, including sending out advance notification to vessels and the public, to keep clear of the area.
The trials, which will contribute to the establishment of an Engi-
neering and Certification Centre of Excellence for WIG in Singapore, to further attract professionals into the maritime domain, are expected to commence from the third quarter of 2024 at a frequency of twice monthly.
During the Singapore Maritime Week (SMW) 2024, the 10-seater AirFish 8 was on display to the public, from 13 to14 April 2024, at the Vessel Showcase at the Marina South Pier, while the two-seater AirFish 3 was on display at the EXPO@ SMW at Suntec Singapore Convention & Exhibition Centre, from 16 to 18 April 2024.
AirX announced a strategic partnership with Bureau Veritas (BV), a global leader in the Testing, Inspection and Certification industry, aimed at advancing Wing-inGround (WIG) technology.
The collaboration will focus on the classification and certification of AirX’s AirFish WIG craft, which represents a vital step towards its entry into service.
Under the partnership, AirX and BV will work together to classify and certify AirFish 8, a 10-seater WIG craft, under BV’s NI525
process for the risk-based qualification of new technology, and liaise with flag states to register the marine platform in respective countries.
AirX and BV will also pool their expertise and resources to establish a robust framework for the classification and certification of AirX’s future WIG platforms, and lay the groundwork for the serial production of the AirFish WIG craft.
AirX will contribute its design and development specialisms as the OEM of the WIG craft, and leverage
ST Engineering’s expertise in aircraft certification and qualification with civil aviation authorities.
BV will provide advisory services on the design and development of the AirFish WIG craft, from a regulatory and classification perspective, as well as technology qualification assessments based on BV’s NI525 classification and equipment certification services, whilst also providing risk and safety assessments associated with the development and operations of AirFish WIG craft.
The selection of the right method is based on several considerations.
Shot peening, the ‘hammering’ of work pieces with precisely defined blast media, is an indispensable operation in industries such as automotive and aerospace. By inducing a residual compressive stress into the work pieces, the shot peening operation substantially improves their long-term resistance against tensile and bending loads.
The process is used for treating toothed, steering and transmission components, and also for springs, drives and crankshafts, and all kinds of turbine blades. A significant advantage of the shot peening operation is that the component weight can be reduced without impacting its mechanical load capabilities.
This is particularly beneficial in electric vehicles, because it increases their operating range and reduces their energy consumption. Due to changing work piece structures and shapes, e-mobility frequently necessitates the alteration of manufacturing processes.
Moreover, customers are demanding significantly higher energy-, resource- and cost-efficiency, in other words, significant improvements in productivity and sustainability.
Lower energy consumption
Compressed air blast systems have been the pre-dominant shot peening tools to consistently achieve the specified residual compressive stress values. A downside of the compressed air method is that it requires a lot of energy. Today, innovative technical improvements of turbine technology allow the precise and high-quality shot peening of a broad range of components with energy-efficient, highly productive turbines.
For many peening applications, costly compressed air blast systems are no longer required. The most important factors to be considered in peening operations are the work
piece shape and size, the required peening results and the blast media.
Based on these factors Rösler, a global leader in mass finishing and shot blasting products and technologies, runs computer simulations of the blast pattern as well as the entire process. The simulations are followed by actual peening trials in the company’s Customer Experience Center (CEC).
Since the CEC is equipped with a broad range of turbine and compressed air blast systems, the shot peening trials can be conducted under actual production conditions. With an in-house X-ray diffractometer, the peening trials can be quickly evaluated to determine which process parameters and blast media will generate the required results.
Correctly calibrated process parameters, including the optimal media selection, guarantee high peening qualities, less equipment wear and low operational costs. If a review of the shot blasting parameters in an existing machine is not sufficient, a retrofit can be the right solution.
This includes upgrading the machine with more productive components, such as more powerful turbines or the development of work piece fixtures for new or modified work pieces. Optimisation of the blast pattern must always be part of the considerations.
In all instances, shot peening trials along with the evaluation of the results by X-ray diffraction, special tests of the peening coverage and, if needed, surface roughness and light-microscopic measurements, will ensure that the required peening specifications are achieved. Also, a blast media analysis will always help to determine if the current media are right for the respective applications.
Dry or wet shot peening
Shot peening can be performed as a dry process or as a wet process. Advantages of the dry peening method are a higher blast intensity and the targeted blasting of specific surface areas. In addition, the entire process and the blast media can be precisely controlled.
The wet blasting technology prevents the media from getting embedded in the work pieces, and it produces a lower surface roughness. Since wet blasting is more gentle than dry blasting, it is the ideal method for treating delicate work pieces with thin walls, without warping them.
The chosen method must be a perfect fit for the respective application. All steps regarding process alteration and optimisation, including the processing trials and process evaluation, can be modified, so that the shot peening equipment can be quickly adapted to changing production conditions. This ensures consistent, high-quality peening results throughout the entire equipment life. It also guarantees that all demands for energy-, resource- and cost-efficiency are fully met.
A major European waste-to-energy incinerator plant has successfully modernised its ageing network of circuit breakers, with just a few minutes of downtime, thanks to a solution from ABB, a global technology leader in electrification and automation.
The Nordværk energy plant in Aalborg, Denmark, which provides renewable energy for thousands of households in Northern Jutland, took advantage of ABB’s Direct Replacement (DR) solution to remove and replace only the mobile parts of its legacy Emax circuit breakers.
The solution was implemented across the installed base at Nordværk’s 42 MW district heating plant in Aalborg East, where the breakers had been in place, from the time it was built in 2005. With spares for the legacy breakers no longer available, a modernisation programme was required to ensure that the plant could continue its uninterrupted operation in a safe and sustainable manner.
According to Nordværk electrician, Mr Claus Riis, a long, unplanned outage was out of the question and even a planned retrofit solution would have been problematic.
“We have an important task of producing electricity and district heating for Aalborg, and its critical infrastructure. It is hugely expensive to shut down completely when you have a 17 MW electricity and 42 MW district heating plant,” said Mr Riis.
“Replacing the breakers with minimal downtime was of utmost importance so when we were presented with the new possibilities enabled by Direct Replacement, it was actually a pretty easy choice,” he added.
ABB’s DR solution is available for withdrawable Emax and New Emax circuit breakers in situations where minimising shutdown time is crit-
ical. The solution is easy to install and guarantees safe modernisation of the old system. The downtime is short, as only the mobile part of the old circuit breaker is replaced with a dedicated Emax 2 part.
The new breakers are type-approved with the same configuration as the existing breakers and conversion wiring is included, further simplifying the exchange process, so that it can typically be completed in just 10 minutes. Furthermore, ABB’s service continuity guarantee ensures uninterrupted operation during the upgrade process, delivering huge savings in both downtime and labour.
Mr Ole Dahl, Electrification Service Sales Engineer at ABB Denmark, believes many businesses are delaying modernising their break-
ers, due to an outdated assumption that replacement entails the removal of key equipment for extended periods.
“Circuit breakers play a vital role in preventing over-heating or fire causing catastrophic damage and stoppages, but too many businesses, where uptime is crucial, such as power plants, hospitals and data centres, are running old installed bases to the point of failure,” said Mr Dahl.
“Modernisation projects, such as Nordværk, prove that legacy breakers can be upgraded with minimal downtime. Spare parts are readily available for the new equipment which is not only more reliable but also future-proofed with the possibility for advanced monitoring and communication,” he added.
Hexagon’s Manufacturing Intelligence division has introduced new, handheld 3D scanning technology that complements its broad range of manufacturing inspection devices with more capabilities for flexible measurement.
The company’s first handheld 3D scanning devices enable engineers and manufacturing personnel to easily scan what they need in a wide range of environments inside and outside factory walls.
The two new handheld devices, ATLASCAN Max and MARVELSCAN, can be used for measuring parts in a wide range of inspection environments where metrology has not traditionally been used, including in automotive, rail, industrial equipment and general manufacturing applications, as well as in heritage and restoration projects outside of manufacturing.
The new, portable 3D scanners can be used for handheld and automated quality inspection applications, and for a wide range of reverse engineering needs.
Today, manufacturing and engineering teams recognise the value of up-to-date, 3D scans throughout the product lifecycle. This means almost anyone might need to perform a metrology-grade scan of a part regardless of the location.
The handheld 3D scanners enable customers to digitalise parts, without worrying about fixturing or environmental conditions, and MARVELSCAN’s cutting-edge, integrated photogrammetry system aligns to reference targets without the need for stickering.
Wireless and ergonomic, these scanners provide a seamless, instant scanning experience from the shop floor to the shipyard.
Productivity is crucial, regardless of the inspection environment. ATLASCAN Max and MARVELSCAN users can adapt workflows on the fly, using ergonomic, thumb-operated
controls that streamline 3D scanning processes in confined spaces and rugged or outdoor environments.
Eliminating the need to access a control PC during measurement, this multi-mode scanning enables different feature types and surface needs to be measured efficiently. For example, users can scan open surfaces with Standard mode, then quickly switch to Fine mode with the on-device controls for higher resolution on intricate features.
Crucially, the data collected under these different modes are automatically combined into a single, workable point cloud.
The new devices also eliminate the need to fixture parts prior to measurement, which contributes to significant time savings and allows greater measurement flexibility. The scanners and parts can be moved freely during measurement, reducing the time it takes to capture complete part data without negatively affecting inspection results.
For further productivity gains, the common and time-consuming task of measuring multiple holes and
slots is made easier with a holeflash capture mode that enables instant data capture of multiple holes and slots in the same shot.
The built-in photogrammetry in MARVELSCAN delivers targetless scanning functionality. This is ideal for scanning large parts and repetitive parts without the time-consuming task of placing targets on the part itself. This photogrammetry function also enhances scanning accuracy for large, delicate parts.
Designed for comfortable routine use, the user has complete freedom of movement to scan hard-to-reach places because neither cables nor referencing hardware are required. The new handheld technology has capabilities for completely wireless measurement with battery-powered autonomy, putting the measurement system fully in the hands of the user, without being tied to a PC or power source.
When combined with their large measurement standoff distance, it makes the devices suitable for integration within automated inspection processes mounted on industrial robots or cobots.
Siemens Digital Industries Software recently introduced the Calibre 3DThermal software for thermal analysis, verification and debugging in 3D integrated circuits (3D-ICs).
Calibre 3DThermal enables chip designers to rapidly model, visualise and mitigate thermal effects in their designs, from early-stage chip and package-inward exploration through to design signoff, by incorporating elements of Siemens’ Calibre verification software and Calibre 3DSTACK software along with the company’s Simcenter Flotherm software solver engine.
Calibre 3DThermal provides the outputs necessary for thermal impacts to be considered in electrical simulations. Moreover, Calibre 3DThermal can both consume, as input, boundary conditions, as well as provide output to Simcenter Flotherm – enabling true IC to system thermal modelling from IC to package to board to system level.
Calibre 3DThermal was developed to address challenges of 3D-IC architectures, where controlling heat dissipation is a key requirement. It offers fast, accurate, powerful and comprehensive approaches to identifying and rapidly addressing complex thermal issues.
Calibre 3DThermal provides the flexibility to start initial feasibility analysis with minimal inputs, and can later perform more detailed analyses, considering metallisation details and their impact on thermal considerations, as more detailed information becomes available.
This progressive approach enables designers to refine their analysis and apply fixes such as floor planning changes and adding stacked vias or TSVs to avoid thermal hotspots and/ or dissipate heat more effectively. This iterative process continues until the final assembly is complete, significantly reducing the risk of performance, reliability and manufacturing issues at final tape-out.
Delivering thermal analysis, at this advanced level, requires a complete understanding of the 3D-IC assembly. Waiting until the assembly is complete, to identify and correct errors, can severely disrupt design schedules. Calibre 3DThermal mitigates this risk through automation and integration, allowing designers to iterate thermal analysis at whichever design stage they are working on.
Calibre 3DThermal embeds a custom version of Siemens’ Simcenter Flotherm software solver engine to create precise chiplet-level thermal models for static or dynamic simulation of full 3D-IC assemblies. Debugging is streamlined through the traditional Calibre RVE software results viewer, which is already integrated across a wide range of IC design tools. The integration of these powerful tools results in an efficient thermal analysis solution tailored to the specific needs of 3D-IC designers.
Like all Calibre products, Calibre 3DThermal integrates seamlessly with a range of industry-leading design tools, from both third parties, as well as with Siemens’ software including the newly announced Innovator3D IC software. In all design flows, Calibre 3DThermal captures and analyses thermal data across the entire design lifecycle.
“Calibre 3DThermal represents
a significant advancement in 3D-IC design and verification, providing designers with the capabilities they need to address thermal challenges early in the design process. By integrating thermal analysis directly into all stages of the IC design flow, we are enabling our customers to create more reliable, high-performance 3D-ICs with greater confidence and efficiency,” said Mr Michael Buehler-Garcia, Vice President, Calibre Product Management, Siemens Digital Industries Software.
In a collaborative effort, Siemens has joined forces with United Microelectronics Corporation (UMC) to deploy an innovative thermal analysis flow for UMC customers, powered by Calibre 3DThermal. This cutting-edge software is tailored specifically for UMC’s wafer-on-wafer and 3D-IC technologies and has been validated and is planned for availability to UMC’s global clientele.
“As the semiconductor industry grapples with escalating thermal challenges, particularly in the realm of heat dissipation and thermal gradients within advanced 3D-IC technologies, UMC remains committed to providing effective solutions,” said Dr Osbert Cheng, Vice President of Device Technology Development & Design Support, UMC.
SiTime Corporation, the precision timing company, recently introduced its Chorus family of clock generators for AI data centre applications. According to the company, this new MEMS-based clock-system-on-a-chip (ClkSoC) family offers 10X higher performance in half the size, compared to standalone oscillators and clocks.
Chorus’ new approach includes clock, oscillator and resonator technologies in an integrated chip, simplifying system clock architecture and accelerating design time by up to six weeks. Chorus, combined with recently acquired timing products from Aura Semiconductor, builds on SiTime’s strategy to offer a complete portfolio of highly differentiated solutions.
“AI is driving tremendous needs for higher data throughput in data centres and lower power consumption, and SiTime is uniquely positioned to help address these issues,” said Mr Piyush Sevalia, Executive Vice President of Marketing at SiTime.
“Before Chorus, hardware designers had to use discrete product types, such as clocks, oscillators and resonators, which resulted in performance compromises. Chorus delivers integrated clock generators to solve these problems and is yet another example of how we are transforming the timing market with our unique approach,” he added.
Chorus, with its integrated MEMS resonator, addresses the limitations of legacy clock generators, eliminating problems such as noise and matching the resonator’s impedance with the clock. Also, Chorus can reduce the board area for timing by
up to 50%, by replacing up to four standalone oscillators. Data centre equipment such as servers, switches, acceleration cards and smart network interface cards (NICs) are ideal applications for Chorus.
“SiTime continues to solve the electronics industry’s toughest timing challenges with advances in silicon MEMS timing technology,” said Mr Dave Altavilla, Co-Founder, President and Principal Analyst at HotTech Vision & Analysis.
“SiTime’s new MEMS-based family of clock generators represents a significant leap forward, offering enhanced performance, reliability and integration, essential for the evolving needs of big iron AI data centres,” he added.
Key Features of SiTime’s Chorus SiT91211 and SiT91213 Clock Generator include the following:
• Higher Performance: Delivers up to 10X better resilience with integrated MEMS resonator.
• Design Simplicity: Integrated MEMS technology speeds the de-
sign process and eliminates common issues such as noise and impedance matching with integrated MEMS resonator.
• Smaller Footprint: Up to half the size in a 4 mm x 4 mm QFN.
• Low RMS Phase Jitter: 70 femtoseconds typical (12 kHz to 20 MHz).
• Flexible Frequency: Programmable frequency from 1 MHz to 700 MHz.
• Flexible Output Types: Up to four differential (LVPECL, LVDS, LPHCSL) or eight LVCMOS outputs.
• Flexible Supply Voltage: Programmable, 1.8 V, 2.5 V, or 3.3 V.
• Reduced Power and Simplified Circuitry: FlexSwing output reduces power consumption and eliminates termination resistors.
• Frequency Stability: ±20 ppm and ±50 ppm from -40 °C to 105 °C.
• EMI Reduction: Configurable spread-spectrum clock generation.
• Compliant with the Latest PCIe Standard: Generation 1 to 6.
• Enhanced System Robustness: Clock fault monitors (Lock Loss).
