Engineering Update - September 2021 by Jet Digital Media Ltd

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September 2021

New Smart Pallet Mover From Interroll Provides Performance Boost For Manufacturing Logistics Winner of the Red Dot Award and “Best of Logistics” nominee for the IFOY Award

Also featured this issue:

ENGINEERING UPDATE

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ENGINEERING PDATE September 2021

CONTENTS Editor

Wendy McManus 01843 267 690 wendy@engineering-update.co.uk

September 2021

At the forefront of digital marketing, Engineering Update strives to bring its readers the latest in industrial engineering, in a format that provides the best usability and ease of use for it’s readers.

Editorial Assistant

Taylor Owens 01843 448 443 taylor@engineering-update.co.uk

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Jodie Little 01843 448 443 jodie@jetdigitalmedia.co.uk

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Tim Johnston 01843 448 443 tim@engineering-update.co.uk

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September 2021 ENGINEERING UPDATE

Abacus Flooring Solutions Ltd Celebrate first successful year in business –

Just one of many recent installs from Abacus.

o many Abacus Flooring Solutions Ltd are now a household name within the industrial and commercial flooring industry here in UK. It’s hard to believe due to the number of highprofile projects and their already well-established brand that Nick and Amanda Megson have just recently celebrated their first year in business. Although 2020 had many challenges for all sectors Abacus Flooring Solutions surpassed their anticipated yearly revenue and have seen month on month growth in all aspects of their company. Whether it’s the employment of staff in various areas of the country, a continuously growing pipeline of work and current plans to move into to a new warehouse and office space things have gone superbly in year one. This is the product of long hours, unmatched quality or work and many miles on the motorway. Abacus currently have a major project taking place in Darlington, 7 completed jobs in Wales and have covered every corner of the UK working with multiple industry leading clients.

To coincide with this, Abacus have also been nominated for a Leicestershire business award for “environmental impact”. Nick and the team at Abacus have designed a resin floor screed made of a variety of recycled plastics and most notably, toilet seats. This has grabbed the attention of many organisations in the sustainability industry. With over 30 years’ experience it is of no surprise that Abacus are thriving. Managing Director Nick Megson had this to say about their first year in operation “Completing our first year has brought only one challenge and that is the staffing. Our projected turnover increased by 300%. We managed everything including our cash flow without any borrowing. Now having moved to a new warehouse with offices, we must look at expanding our workforce. We will continue to look for our own work and manage it the way we have, by using a network of specialist sub-contractors. We will continue with our commitment to the environment and our 5-year plan is to have electric vehicles. I will continue

to grow the business, but this can only work with the support of our Customer Base, our Suppliers, Sub-Contractors. We will continue to provide the highest standards of Customer Service.” Abacus Flooring Solutions are changing the industry with the latest innovations, sustainable materials and customer service which is reflective in award nominations, business retention and the continuous flow of outstanding testimonials from their clients. If you’re looking to renew your industrial work environments flooring with a sustainable, hassle-free and the trusted expertise possessed by Abacus call today on 07904 396962 or email nick@abacusflooringsolutions.co.uk You can count on their experience.

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September 2021 ENGINEERING UPDATE

he PROFOX actuators replace actuators of a different brand which, although only a few years old, did not stand up to the process conditions. Failures in the actuator electronics were frequent, and the hard plastic gears were worn out and could no longer deliver the required torque. PROFOX actuators proved to be the perfect solution for the requirements of Qatar Cool, thanks to their high-quality, highprecision mechanics and their innovative design. A key benefit for the customer is easy operation of the actuators via Bluetooth, using the AUMA Assistant App. This means that the actuators can be easily operated locally, even though they are installed at a height that is difficult to access. In addition, the FOXEYE indicator light clearly shows the actuator status, even from a distance. Another key reason to opt for PROFOX actuators was their numerous feedback signals, which the customer uses for process supervision. Five PROFOX PF Q-300 partturn actuators are currently in operation at Cool Qatar. They control the supply of chilled water from the district cooling network to the main heat exchanger of one of the connected buildings. More are to follow. AUMA launched the PROFOX actuator series only last year. Providing fast and precise positioning, utmost flexibility and an excellent cost-benefit ratio, the high-performance, compact actuators are suitable for all industry sectors, including water treatment, combined heat and power plants, district heating and cooling, process industries, and shipbuilding. www.auma.co.uk

Successful retrofit using AUMA PROFOX actuators AUMA PROFOX actuators are proving themselves in the district cooling network of Qatar Cool, one of the leading district cooling suppliers in the Middle East. The compact and smart actuators are installed in the district cooling network for PearlQatar, an artificial island close to Doha, Qatar.

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September 2021 ENGINEERING UPDATE

Curtiss-Wright Surface Technologies (CWST) provides high quality surface treatments for improving the life and performance of critical components through its global network of over 70 operating divisions and specialist onsite teams.

uilding on the unique heritage of Glenn Curtiss and the Wright brothers, Curtiss-Wright Surface Technologies has a long tradition of providing innovative solutions and building solid and trusted customer relationships

solution and point of contact for all their surface treatment, supporting their requirements through our facilities and on-site field teams, improving and reducing turnaround times and costs.

Our surface treatments have been successfully used by OEM’s in major industries such as aerospace, automotive, oil & gas, subsea, medical and power generation for many years.

Component failure is usually due to a sequence or combination of events which can initiate from the design and choice of materials through to manufacturing processing and assembly including the application of heat, welding and grinding, as well as machining and distortion of the part due to bending, rolling or forging.

We are only too aware of the logistical challenges and costs faced by our customers and so we can offer a “One Stop Shop” solution, providing a wide range of surface treatments including Controlled Shot and Laser Shock Peening, bespoke and trade Coating Applications, Engineered coatings, Thermal Spray Coatings and Parylene Coatings for metal, alloy silicone, plastics and electronic components as well as Analytical Services. We offer our customers a single source

Problems We Solve

In services conditions can also contribute to the failure of a part such as variation in temperature and environmental conditions, uneven, high or low cyclic loads or stress profile, compression, torsion and bending as well as foreign object damage. Matching the maintenance needs of the component to its operating

conditions and environment is also important to reduce the effects of ageing and wear. Our facilities use state of the art robotic equipment which has been designed and manufactured in-house specifically for our customers’ work. We keep in the forefront of new materials and technology by maintaining strong links with industry associations and being actively involved in research and development projects. Curtiss-Wright Surface Technologies support every stage of the manufacturing process from design and new manufacture through to in service maintenance, repair and overhaul of components – increasing the strength and performance of parts and reducing costs and downtime. To find out more please visit www.cwst.co.uk or email eurosales@cwst.com

AZM150 SOLENOID INTERLOCK: SLIMLINE DESIGN WITH 360 ROTATING HEAD AND 1400 NEWTON CLAMPING FORCE O

The AZM150 solenoid interlock can be combined with three different actuators for different installation situations: a straight actuator for sliding doors, an angled actuator for large revolving doors and a movable actuator for smaller revolving doors. One of the plus points of the interlock is the rotating actuator head which can be locked simply by putting the lid on rather than a screw fitting. The rotating actuator head has two feeder slots to enable a range of installation positions and approach options. This makes the interlock really flexible to use. The AZM150 is an electromechanical design which can be combined with high safety standards. The interlock comes with a low coding level as standard but is also available with an optional high coding level. The benefit for users: In accordance with ISO 14119, a higher coding requires fewer measures to prevent the bypassing of locking mechanisms, such as fitting out of range or in a concealed position. Schmersal is the only manufacturer which can offer electromechanical safety switches and solenoid interlocks with high coding levels. Scan the QR code to see the AZM150 in action or visit our website for more information.

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September 2021 ENGINEERING UPDATE

The ‘Easy’ truth behind e-commerce returns With e-commerce returns just as explosive as online shopping, many e-retailers are discovering their returns management processes aren’t efficient. Returns management is one of the most often overlooked processes of the warehouse. An unmanaged, uncontrolled returns process can put tremendous strain on a facility’s available space, labour and costs.

hen returns are put in a corner waiting to be processed, that’s putting valuable revenue generating inventory aside. If processes are not properly managed and systems become overwhelmed, items will have to be sold at a discount to get them out of the system before eating into profits. Returns are a significant cost and put an enormous impact on the bottom line. 2020 returns were estimated to cost retailers $550 billion. When it comes to returns, the top challenge facing retailers is cost containment. As retailers expand return policies to meet customer demands (free shipping and no restocking fees), their internal returns costs increase. But its more than just monetary issues, a returns policy can impact customer loyalty with 68% of shoppers viewing return policies before making a purchase. For example, how many of you shop using Amazon. co.uk to make purchases? I bet it’s many of us. Why? Because they have made shopping online an ‘Art in Ease’ the whole process is painless with a nice and easy returns process. But savvy companies such as ‘Cygnia’ a UK 3PL have turned to automation solutions to deliver logistics fulfilment for their customers. Through an automated put-away and returns process they are currently experiencing not only a 200% increase in picking performance, but they are delivering 15% improvements across the whole operation and are a great example of Omni-channel growth using automation.

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To get the lowdown read Kardex latest white paper on Automate returns management

or contact Kardex direct at info.remstar.uk@kardex.com

ENGINEERING PDATE September 2021

Series 35X

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IS THE OPTION Pressure Ranges 0…0,3 to 0…1000 bar Accuracy ±0,05 %FS

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RMIG is the world’s largest manufacturer and supplier of perforated metal and its related products. We know our customers’ requirements for price and quality and meet their demands with uncompromising service. Not only do we offer standard and bespoke perforated metal sheets, we are able to offer you a range of secondary operations as detailed below. Complete solutions With a continued investment in the latest equipment and a network of professional partners we are able to produce prime quality products and solutions – from a simple perforated sheet to the fully formed and coated custom made part.

Cutting We can cut and shape perforated sheet to meet the needs of your final application. Levelling For some applications a high degree of flatness is required, we have processes in place to ensure our perforated coils and sheets meet with your most demanding requirements. Rolling and forming We can roll, bend and form perforated sheets to match your design. Aesthetic finishes and protective coating We can offer powder coating and hot dip galvanizing solutions to meet your specifications.

For more information please contact us tel: 01925 839610 | email: info.uk@rmig.com | www.rmig.com

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September 2021 ENGINEERING UPDATE

LinMot Linear Motors Slash Energy Costs to 5% of Pneumatic Solutions

owering actuators directly with Linear electric motors rather than air cylinders can result in huge cost and emission savings across the board. So much of our industry uses compressed air that is often regarded as the fourth utility, after electricity, natural gas and water. However, compressed air is more expensive than the other three utilities when evaluated on a per unit energy delivered basis. Quin Systems, exclusive UK suppliers of LinMot Linear Motors for over 25 years, can help you calculate the predicted carbon and energy savings achieved by switching from a pneumatic solution to a linear motion solution.

LinMot, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of industrial linear motors has released a new component of its LinMot Designer software that can quantify just how energy efficient its solution is, and the sizeable return on investment their motors can provide over pneumatics.

Example Take an example within the handling and assembling sector. A linear actuation is required on the horizontal plane to move items through to the next stage of the production process. A single LinMot Linear motor with guide can replace a traditional 63mm diameter rodless air cylinder for this task, ultimately reducing annual energy cost by over 10,000 EUR and CO2 emissions by over 26,000 kg.

Taking this example in more detail, the project requirements of this example are as follows: • Stroke  2 metres in each direction (4 meters per cycle) • Motion  Continuous reciprocating motion (8000h / year) • Time  3 seconds in each direction (6 seconds per cycle) • Moving mass  5kg • Load force  100N resistance in each direction The return on investment is significant. Energy saved by using a single electrically driven actuator over a basic traditional pneumatic cylinder has the potential to cover its higher initial outlay within a very short timeframe, typically less than a year. Combined with the extraordinarily long operation life of LinMot Linear Motors and the next to zero servicing requirements mean LinMot’s solution will continue working for years, improving the cost benefits and environmental efficiency of your production line by a significant margin. www.quin.co.uk/products/ linear-motors

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For more information, please contact Quin Systems, the LinMot distributor for UK & Ireland on 0118 977 1077 or sales@quin.co.uk. www.quin.co.uk

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September 2021 ENGINEERING UPDATE

Wolf provides certified lighting for safe use in hydrogen atmospheres Hydrogen - a clean, carbon neutral energy source emitting no CO2 - is often described as the fuel of the future, though it’s already being used across a growing range of applications in the UK and overseas.

hile acknowledging that hydrogen’s ‘green planet’ credentials are highly encouraging, technical experts at Wolf Safety believe the risks it can potentially cause should not be underestimated. Hydrogen is an element which creates a highly hazardous explosive atmosphere, not only because of its low ignition and high combustion properties but also due to its tendency to leak easily from storage tanks. A number of explosions within hydrogen refuelling stations and storage locations have drawn attention to its volatility. Hydrogen is increasingly being used to power fuel cell vehicles including buses, trucks and a test train now on trial in Scotland. Future applications could include powering construction machinery, ships, even aircraft. Wolf Safety, global leaders in the design and manufacture of portable and temporary lighting, are well aware of hydrogen related risks and offer safe, certified lighting solutions for use in hydrogen atmospheres. Says Michael Morley, the company’s Technical Director: “It is important that while developing new applications for hydrogen in pursuit of green and clean solutions, no-one should lose sight of its potential to cause explosion. “Engineers and technicians working in locations where hydrogen, or other explosive gases or vapours, could be present can be confident that Wolf has a safe, certified and effective portable and temporary lighting solution which can be tailored to meet their specific needs. “The use of ATEX or IECEx certified lighting is a vital safety precaution in hydrogen atmospheres.”

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The company’s range of portable lighting, temporary lighting and power distribution solutions includes products already certified for safe use in workplaces where hydrogen gas could be present. Their range also includes mains and low voltage versions of floodlights and luminaires, battery powered LED work lights, torches, handlamps, head torches and warning lights. For technical information visit: www.wolfsafety.com

ENGINEERING PDATE September 2021

HIGH ACCURACY

Series 35X

IS THE OPTION Pressure Ranges 0…0,3 to 0…1000 bar Accuracy ±0,05 %FS

Total Error Band ±0,1 %FS @ -10…80 °C Interfaces RS485, 4…20 mA, 0…10 V Operational Temperature Range -40…120 °C

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September 2021 ENGINEERING UPDATE

SEEPEX Big Pumps with Maintain-in-Place Technology. Smart Maintenance. Fast and Simple. SEEPEX, global leader in design, manufacture and applications of progressive cavity (PC) pumps, macerators and digital technology, continues to extend its world class portfolio of maintain-in-place pump technologies.

The new patented BNM range of pumps with capacities up to 300 m3/hr and discharge pressures up to 48 bar can handle flowable to highly viscous products with a high dry solids content. The design features a suction casing that enables quick and easy access for rotor and stator removal without having to dismantle the rotor side joint. As a result, maintenance time can be reduced by up to 80% with a significant reduction in maintenance costs. The suction casing and pressure branch remain in place, eliminating the need for pipework dismantling. The pump drive can then be quickly removed complete with mechanical seal, drive side universal joint and coupling rod. Unique Patented Solution

ABOVE: SEEPEX Rotor Joint Access technology provides quick and easy access to the rotor-side joint. BELOW: With SEEPEX Drive Joint Access, the complete drive and coupling rod assembly can be easily removed from the back of the suction casing to service the mechanical seal or joints.

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SEEPEX new ease of maintenance solution for big pumps complements our Smart Conveying Technology (SCT), launched in 2008 and still setting standards in the maintenance of smaller standard progressive cavity pumps, and Drive Joint Access (DJA) technology for open hopper pumps. All of these patented solutions increase uptime and plant availability.

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September 2021 ENGINEERING UPDATE

AAG to demonstrate latest AXYZ Trident print finishing system at Interplas Leading supplier of CNC machining solutions, Telford-based AAG (AXYZ Automation Group) will be demonstrating the latest version of the AXYZ Trident print finishing system on Stand H31 in Hall 4 at Interplas (NEC, Birmingham 28-30 September). The Trident 6010 to be shown is the largest of four models in the AXYZ Trident range that has shared new design features to make it faster, quieter and more powerful. Apart from a reworked solid welded steel frame construction to accommodate more vigorous machine operation, Trident incorporates an expanded range of routing, cutting and creasing tools (including a four-position tangential knife-cutting unit), an expanded ATC (Automatic Tool Change) system and a raft of standard and optional machine enhancements. These include improved dust extraction and spray mister units for ultra-efficient machine tool lubrication and cooling, the AXYZ AVS (AXYZ Vision System) for enhanced material registration and realignment to ensure

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optimum routing/cutting accuracy, an increased gantry height to accommodate materials up to 125mm in depth and a narrower carriage design that contributes to a smaller footprint to enable installation in work environments where space is at a premium. The AXYZ Trident 6010 has a processing bed size of 2,159 x 3,048mm and a customisable length of up to 15m. It will handle a diverse range of rigid, semi-rigid and flexible materials. Typically, these include aluminium and aluminium composites (ACM), acrylic and plastics and their derivatives, laminates, vinyl, foamed and corrugated board, cardboard and paper.

Sharing the AAG stand will be the latest small-format AXYZ Innovator CNC routing/cutting system. It is considered to be the most technically advanced machine in its class and significantly the first to include a three-station ATC facility. The high performance-tocost capability of the Innovator also equates to that of much larger and more expensive machines. For further information, visit www.axyz.co.uk or telephone 01952 291600

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September 2021 ENGINEERING UPDATE

Euchner’s Safety Solutions Offer Maximum Uptime for Manufacturing Facilities As manufacturing facilities are continuing to enter the age of Industry 4.0 and with fast-moving developments in technology, machinery uptime and overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) are becoming significantly improved, resulting in greater profitability and a more efficient flow of production. But what about machinery safety and how can your safety devices help your machine become smarter?

uchner, a leading specialist in machinery safety, have recognised the importance of this to their end users and are now offering their IO-Link Gateway for a number of their safety switches. Process data is cyclically sent to the control system via IO-Link, including all status signals, such as the position of the door or guard locking, indication of whether a switch is out of alignment. Moreover, noncyclical services can be used to collect data such as the switch temperature, the

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applied voltage and number of operating cycles. With these advances, it is now very easy for a factory maintenance team to key into a machine’s maintenance programme and schedule maintenance and repair and from an external position, and for the machine manufacturer to remotely monitor the safety aspects of the machine, its guards and other safety elements. This results in positive accounting rather than disaster management, optimising plant uptime and reducing unwanted costs.

ENGINEERING PDATE September 2021

> Corrosion resistant for up to 1000 hours in salt spray > Manufactured from a premium alloy with less than 0.1% copper content for corrosion resistance > IP tessng performed aaer impact tessng to verify the seal is maintained when the enclosure is treated roughly > Impact resistant up to 7 Joules > Reusable seals (Up to 200 compressions)

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September 2021 ENGINEERING UPDATE

New Smart Pallet Mover from Interroll provides performance boost for manufacturing logistics It is not the performance of modern production machines but their material supply that promises the greatest potential for further productivity increases in industrial companies today. With the new Smart Pallet Mover (SPM), Interroll has launched a awarded solution that can be adapted as a flexible and modular pallet management system to meet a wide range of application requirements in industrial manufacturing. The customer and user benefits of the Smart Pallet Mover are impressive: Those who use it can now finally automate work processes in front of the machine production to avoid manual activities in safety-critical areas and manage the pallet work flow by buffering, sorting, sequencing and carrying at the right time to deliver significant improvement of the machine down time optimizing the return on investment (ROI) of the machine production cells. This not only eliminates costly production interruptions for material supply to machines, but also the risk of accidents during operation. In this way, productivity increases of up to 30 percent are possible compared to manual operation.

Ideal supplement for driverless transport systems The Smart Pallet Mover is a pallet management solution for automating pallet transport in the vicinity of manufacturing machines and for production-related picking and sequencing processes, which can also be used in Industry 4.0 environments. The SPM is designed to transport, sort and buffer boxes or pallets weighing up to 1,000 kilograms. It represents a mobile and autonomously acting material flow system that can be used, for example, as a cost-efficient supplement or substitute for forklifts or automated guided vehicles (AGVs). The Smart Pallet Mover solution consists of various modules. The center of the solution is a mobile unit (SM1000 Mover) that runs underneath non-driven conveyor sections and moves pallets lying on them. A transfer car (SM2000 Transfer Car) which moves on a rail can transport pallets between parallel conveyor sections. "With this platform solution, which is unparalleled on the world market, we are tapping into the great productivity potential offered by production-related pallet management automation for our customers and users. A user-friendly 3D online tool, the SPM Layout Configurator & Pallet Flow Simulator, makes it possible to configure a system quickly and easily as well as simulate planned operation on the computer," explains Jens Strüwing, Executive Vice President Products & Technology at Interroll. The flexibility of this innovative solution, the use of proven technologies and a very short payback period ensure that users can significantly strengthen their competitiveness. As with all Interroll products, the Smart Pallet Mover is extremely easy to install, operate and maintain. The modular plug-and-play solution can therefore be put into operation without lengthy interruptions to production, even during modernization projects. Networking capabilities based on global data standards such as REST API and JSON ensure maximum compatibility and ease of use. The conveyor modules can be reconfigured very easily if required, and height-adjustable supports allow the system to be installed even on uneven floors.

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Winner of the Red Dot Award and “Best of Logistics” nominee for the IFOY Award Before the official market launch, the new solution had already won two internationally renowned awards. For example, the Smart Pallet Mover won the Red Dot Award, Product Design 2021, for its exceptional design quality and degree of innovation. At the same time, the solution was chosen by the independent experts of the "International Intralogistics and Forklift Truck of the Year Award (IFOY AWARD)" in March 2021 as a finalist of this globally renowned intralogistics award. With this new offering, Interroll is taking into account the fact that production managers are increasingly focusing on material handling, as shown, for example, by the survey "Production Logistics in Medium-Sized Businesses," which Interroll published last year: The average degree of automation of internal material transport at the companies surveyed was only 53 percent. Almost every tenth company (9 percent) had a degree of automation of less than 25 percent. A video of the new solution is visible via https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3mbnWIBP-18 https://vimeo.com/520536729 More information: https://info.interroll.com/manufacturing-logistics

Protecting Your Plant Before

Rotech Motion Sensor’s can be used whenever information or monitoring of shaft rotation, position, direction, speed, slip etc is required! Rotech Motion Sensor’s can be used for indication, control, interlocking, protection, sequencing, alarm initiations and many more functions! Rotech Motion Sensor’s can be used wherever materials are transported or processed By conveyors, elevators, screws, mixers, etc!

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Monitoring the world



September 2021 ENGINEERING UPDATE

Highly Radiation Resistant Lenses for CCTV cameras Resolve Optics reports on growing demand for radiation resistant fixed focus and zoom lenses for CCTV cameras used for visual inspection in nuclear power stations.

ollowing on from the widely reported accidents at Chernobyl, and more recently the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plants, the need for CCTV camera systems that can operate even when subject to high radiation was evident. Drawing upon its expertise in radiation resistant lenses - Resolve Optics has established itself as a world leader in the supply of key camera lenses used in applications including the inspection of fuel elements, pressure vessels and nuclear cores, as well as the inspection of loading and offloading of nuclear materials. All optical elements in Resolve Optics radiation-resistant lens designs for CCTV cameras are made using cerium

oxide-doped glass or synthetic silica. This allows Resolve Optics fixed focus and zoom camera lenses to withstand radiation doses up to 1 billion rads and temperatures up to 100°C without significant discoloration or performance degradation. These specialist lenses also provide high image resolution and minimum geometric distortion from 400 to 750 nm. For further information on highly radiation resistant lenses for CCTV cameras please visit https://www.resolveoptics.com/nuclear/ or contact Resolve Optics Ltd. on +441494-777100 / sales@resolveoptics.com.

a CCTV camera for use in Nuclear applications

High-Definition Nuclear Inspection In Colour Resolve Optics reports on its development of a radiationresistant fixed focus lens for Ahlberg Cameras AB to enable high-definition Nuclear Inspection in hard-to-reach areas. The resultant Mini-Rad F30 HD camera series, incorporating the special fixed focus lens developed by Resolve Optics, is about 100 times more radiation tolerant than most currently available standard nuclear colour HD cameras. These new radiation-hard inspection systems have been developed to replace old tube camera technology.

eadquartered in Norrtälje, Sweden - Ahlberg Cameras is a high-tech company that specialises in delivering radiation resistant visual inspection equipment, incorporating the latest technology, to enable monitoring of nuclear reactors and nuclear waste facilities.

Providing true HD quality images, the 5mm fixed focus radiation resistant lens developed and supplied by Resolve Optics enables Mini-Rad F30 HD camera systems set a new standard for safe, high quality inspection of monitoring of hot cells, belt lines and close up inspection of baffle bolts.

As part of their development of a new radiation-hard inspection system Ahlberg Cameras turned to Resolve Optics to design and produce a robust, fixed focus non-browning zoom lens that could deliver High Definition (HD) colour images and handle 50,000 Gy / 5,000,000 Rad total dose without degradation.

Mark Pontin, Managing Director of Resolve Optics commented “Producing clear, sharp images free of a strong yellow tint has traditionally been a limiting issue when using radiation resistant lenses on colour cameras. In our lens development for Ahlberg Cameras we drew upon our indepth knowledge of radiation

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resistant optical materials to help solve this problem. The special fixed focus, radiation resistant lens we have produced enables Mini-Rad F30 HD cameras to capture clear, high definition colour images, with minimum geometric distortion from 400 to 770 nm. Drawing upon nearly 30 years experience - Resolve Optics has built a strong reputation for specialist lens design and manufacture of production quantities of radiation resistant (nonbrowning) lenses and optical products on time to strict quality and target price guidelines. For further information on radiation resistant lenses for nuclear applications please click here or contact Resolve Optics Ltd. on +44-1494-777100 / sales@resolveoptics.com. For further information on the MiniRad F30 HD camera series from Ahlberg Cameras please click here.

NOW IN ITS 16TH YEAR!

27TH & 28TH SEPTEMBER 2021 GULF HOTEL BAHRAIN & CONVENTION CENTRE

DUE TO POPULAR DEMAND, LIFTEX - THE LEADING NETWORKING EXHIBITION DEDICATED TO THE LIFTING INDUSTRY - IS COMING TO THE MIDDLE EAST! The 2-day exhibition will be hosted by LEEA (Lifting Equipment Engineers Association), the global representative body for the lifting industry worldwide, under the patronage of Bahrain’s Ministry of Labor at the Gulf Hotel & Convention Centre, Bahrain on 27-28 September 2021.

If you work in the lifting and rigging industry or you want to learn about the latest solutions in the local marketplace, then you can’t afford to miss LiftEx 2021. Network with other like-minded professionals, gain advice on the latest regulations and best practice to save you time and money.

To find out how you can get involved as a Sponsor, Exhibitor or Visitor, please email enquiries@L2Events.com or call on +44 20 3488 2865. Follow us @LiftEx2021 #LiftEx21 | enquiries@L2Events.com

www.liftex.org



September 2021 ENGINEERING UPDATE

NEW UNIPAKER ACTIONS ENERGY & READY MEAL WASTE At PPMA 2021, Brillopak will showcase its newest award-winning and affordable UniPAKer robotic crate packing platform, launching its most compact and energy-efficient system to-date. By lowering compressed air consumption in the generation of vacuum by up to 45%, the overall carbon footprint of the system is significantly reduced. The single dual head crate packing cell simultaneously reduces supply chain waste by minimising damage to protective ready meal films. Taking the lead to reduce automation carbon emissions and meet the UK’s new 2050 Net Zero targets, Brillopak has reengineered the UniPAKer’s compressed air pressure system and end-effector vacuum generators. Creating sustainable value across the entire packing cycle, by adopting this ‘whole system air flow approach’ and improved control and distribution of air, Brillopak reports a 10% reduction in power usage compared to previous models in the series. Central to this upgrade, which features on all new UniPAKer systems and can be retrofitted onto existing UniPAKer cells, is the introduction of vacuum generators into the endeffector head. Rather than sitting external to the end-effector, air is drawn into the centre of the head and fed to each of the five generators, all of which are contained within a special internal casing. Delivering more consistent, targeted and faster airflow.

Taking action against the nine million tonnes of food wasted annually in the UK – which alone accounts for 25 million tonnes of carbon emissions (the equivalent of ten million cars)i – the next-generation UniPAKer also helps to address one of the biggest avoidable waste hotspots in ready meal production and distribution. Split top seal packaging and torn film lids. “Spillages are one of the key causes of ready meal waste. On high speed side or drop loading automated production lines, one broken seal on a ready meal has the potential to tip and cross contaminate an entire tray,” notes David. With a ten percent smaller footprint than earlier UniPAKer generations, one cell can handle multiple product types and place into crates in multiple patterns. Striking the optimum balance of fast acceleration and gentle pick and placement, the new UniPAKer is especially beneficial for crate loading perishable products which are more prone to leaks and damage, including meat, fish, ready meals and fresh produce. At PPMA 2021, Brillopak will showcase the single dual-arm delta robot picking up and placing ready meals into retail crates. Depending on applications, a single UniPAKer cell can be configured to incorporate up to three robot configurations working in unison.

The small footprint single robot system is highly efficient at picking up and moving up to 70 chilled and ready meal products per minute. For example two selection dips or two family-sized convenience meals. With the new dualhead patent pending end-effector design guaranteeing consistent lifting capacity when suctioning up and gently placing meals of various weight, size and packaging type into retail crates. “This gentle handling is especially imperative when handling thin films, pillow bags, resealable packs and newer more sustainable packaging substrates,” emphasises David Jahn, Director at Brillopak.

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Brillopak re-engineers its UniPAKer compressed air pressure system and end-effector vacuum generators, saving at least 10% in power usage

Curtiss-Wright Surface Technologies, Everlube products & Coating Services Protection & life extension of your critical components throughout any crisis!

COATING SERVICES: l Thermal Spray & HVOF Coatings l Dry film lubricants - MoS2, PTFE, Graphite, WS2 l Coatings for corrosion, chemical & environmental protection l Titanium anodising l Zinc rich coatings for corrosion protection l Impingment coating processes for ultra thin solid film lubricants l Nonstick/release coatings for low coefficients of friction l Primers for rubber and plastics for sound absorbing and dampening materials l High temperature resistant coatings l Rare earth magnet coatings l Coatings for EMI/RFI shielding provide highly conductive coatings and platings to control electromagnetic interference l Ultra thin conformal parylene coating to reduce friction and protect against contamination l Pre-treatments including Ti Anodising, Phosphate Conversion Coating and Chilled Iron Blasting, Aluminum Oxide Blasting and Vapour Degreasing

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

September 2021 ENGINEERING UPDATE

Lenze UK prepared with new facilities Lenze UK have moved from their previous premises and are ready for the next step in Automation & Digitisation in their new Bedfordshire office.

uring the Covid period Lenze focussed even more on their partnership for industrial automation industries. With a strengthened sales force in automation and digitisation they are ready for the next chapter in assisting OEMs to use data from increasingly intelligent systems. Nowadays when we talk about automation platforms, we can no longer associate a single brand name to an entire automation platform. Machine automation companies must provide a system that is open, suitable for collecting data and, with the help of algorithms, doing the right things with that data, be that decreasing costs by improving machine performance for example, or allowing an entry into a totally new business model. Therefore, in the control platform that Lenze provides "the world is represented in terms of IT and OT" according to Eric van den Broek, Managing Director of Lenze in UK and Benelux. Data scientists from Lenze act as sparring partner to the client. What do you want? Where are you now? Where do you want to be in five years? What can you do with collected data? With predictive maintenance you could perhaps look at the lifespan of a motor: how long can it run for or when do the bearings need to be replaced. Of course that is important, but why stop there?

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Without adding additional sensors, we can look much further into the entire drive chain. What is attached to the motor, what is being driven? We could for example use self-learning algorithms to monitor the tension of a timing belt, and in turn create an email alert for a maintenance crew. ‘These kinds of solutions provide much greater added value for the customer,' says Van den Broek. With fewer sensors, a machine builder also needs fewer inputs for the control system and therefore less cabling. Our international team in Bedford is well equipped and open to talk about new automation challenges. So, give Lenze a call, drop in to see our new office and grab a coffee. The new facilities are located here: Lenze Limited 6 Abbey Court Priory Business Park, MK44 3WH Bedford United Kingdom

www.lenze.com Phone +44 1234 753200

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

September 2021 ENGINEERING UPDATE

THINK SEALLESS HMD Kontro has stepped up its ‘Think Sealless’ pumps campaign, with a dedicated website section and additional learning resources introduced to help build awareness of magnetic drive sealless pumps and assist specifiers less familiar with the technology to determine the best fit for their fluid transfer requirements.

s a specialist, the company is dedicated to encouraging the take-up of this now wellestablished technology, which has been shown to minimise safety risks through total fluid containment, while offering cost benefits for processes and fluid transfers including those involving high temperatures, high pressures, high value, aggressive and volatile substances. Additionally, with no need for seal support systems and reduced instrument wiring and configuration requirements, lead times can be cut substantially, and project build costs minimised. The latest systems, for example HMD Kontro’s CSA/ CSI range of pumps, are based on a completely new approach, with a new modular concept, standardising the range and streamlining the selection process. With greater interchangeability of parts, production downtime for servicing is minimised and on-site replacement of components can be easily accomplished while improving inventory management for spare parts also results in ongoing cost savings, making magnetic drive sealless pumps an attractive option when measured in whole life terms.

HMD Kontro has also built up a library of helpful downloadable or viewable Think Sealless resources. These include a KnowHow Guide and a glossary of sealless pump terminology which offer a good starting point as well as videos which demonstrate the basic principles and explain different aspects of sealless pumps in greater detail. In addition, HMD Kontro offers webinars and training courses, both directly and through its Channel Partners.

Further Think Sealless resources will be added over the coming months to assist with training and skills Guided Learning Process development, designed to extend the awareness of this fast-evolving and future proof technology, which offers The brand new Think Sealless section on the HMD Kontro multiple benefits for process operators. website offers a thorough grounding to those less familiar with magnetic drive pump technology, directing visitors To learn more about Think Sealless and magnetic drive through a series of pages explaining how the technology pumps, please visit thinksealless.com. works and looking at examples of suitable applications. These pages also consider the significant benefits involved To access the dedicated, knowledgeable and experienced in switching from mechanical pumps with seals in terms HMD Kontro team for help in selecting, commissioning, of efficiencies and cost savings, safety and environmental servicing and maintaining the best pump for your concerns, all issues that are now at the forefront of application, please call +44 (0)1323 452 000 and/or considerations for specifiers. email info@hmdkontro.com

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ENGINEERING PDATE September 2021

TURN YOUR IDEAS INTO SOLUTIONS

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22/02/2021

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Multi-skilled high performers.... Kawasaki robots deliver high-performance, reliably and consistantly, for the widest range of manufacturing applications. From high-speed precision assembly to taking the strain of handling ultra heavy products, there are Kawasaki robots world-wide helping businesses achieve their maximum potential.

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Kawasaki Robotics (UK) Ltd |31



September 2021 ENGINEERING UPDATE

FOODGRADE LUBRICANTS WITH UNIQUE FORMULATION - THE SOLUTION TO AVOID PATHOGEN’S GROWTH by Dr. Martin Wünsch, Head of Research & Development, LUBCON Lubricants UK Ltd The production of food and beverages requires a very high degree of cleanliness and industrial hygiene measures to prevent any hazards to consumer’s health. As a consequence, H1 approved lubricants are mandatory for all lubricating points where incidental product contamination is technically unavoidable or possible, but unlikely. Even if product contact is utterly impossible, H1 lubricants are recommended, due to the probability of a mix-up with standard lubricants if these are used in the same area.

pathogens from growth in these newly developed lubricants could be demonstrated in incubation tests by an independent microbiological laboratory. Potential applications for LUBCON Clean Series lubricants are in particular

all processes where special measures for germ control like heat, radiation, sterilization, addition of preservatives etc. are excluded, e.g., for the aseptic cold filling of fruit juice. www.lubcon.com

Threats caused by microbial contamination The European Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC regulates (Annex I, Section 2.1.2.) that “instructions must indicate recommended products and methods for cleaning, disinfecting and rinsing”. However, in case of lubricated bearings or other sealed components it is nearly impossible to clean and disinfect the inside space properly once microbial organisms have penetrated and started growing within the grease. Microbial contamination in the environment of food and beverages production, however, is in particular of concern for gram-positive and gramnegative pathogens, e.g., Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Legionella pneumophilia and Bacillus atrophaeus (see diagram). Incidental food contact with such germ-ridden grease can cause contamination of complete production batches, resulting in serious health risks for the consumers and the need for a product recall campaign causing severe damage to the company’s image.

Based on the example of the pathogen Bacillus atrophaeus, the diagram shows the germ formation within conventional grease in comparison to a product from the newly developed LUBCON Clean Series.

Effective solution: LUBCON Clean Series with unique formulation In order to avoid these complicated situations, the application of H1 lubricants from LUBCON Clean Series based on an innovative formulation is highly recommended. The effectiveness of preventing

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The growth of pathogens (here: Legionella pneumophilia) in a grease can evidently be reduced by the unique formulation of LUBCON Clean Series.

Increasing Maintenance Efficiency with High-Performance Food Grade Lubricants LUBCON‘s H1-certified oils and greases allow incidental food contact and thus help to avoid product recalls due to contamination. By prolonging maintenance intervals and reducing machine downtimes, LUBCON lubricants increase machine availability and efficiency of food production facilities. We are the experts for streamlining your lubricant portfolio in order to improve production processes. Don‘t hesitate to use our long time experience in tribology for optimal machine performance.

www.lubcon.com

LUBCON LUBRICANTS UK LTD. Email: uk@lubcon.com | Phone: +44 1323 561030



September 2021 ENGINEERING UPDATE

High quality, accurate burst control even in the harshest environments

Unique precision manufacturing methods

– Maximising uptime while minimising environmental and safety concerns Fig. 1: REMBE® rupture disc IKB® (closed and open)

ith chemical manufacturers focused on maximising output, reducing energy costs and ensuring plants reliably conform to strict regulations, there is increased pressure for plant engineers to source components which will improve overall operational competitiveness.

industry concerns associated with earlier rupture disc designs such as pin-holing, corrosion build-up and low life-cycling capability. Along with damage during installation, these are the main causes of premature failure of rupture discs. By improving manufacturing and eliminating these issues REMBE® offer a longer life span solution which results in less downtime for customers.

Using the highest precision manufacturing methods, REMBE® developed a range of rupture discs providing exceptional performance benefits while eradicating common industry concerns associated with traditional rupture discs.

Minimise premature failure and maximise process uptime

The move from mechanical scoring to unique CPX™ manufacturing Contour Precision Lasering (CPL™) and Contour Precision Profiling (CPP™) enables high quality, accurate, burst control even in the harshest of chemical environments. An alternative to traditional rupture disc scoring this latest development in technology provides a wealth of advantages as it does not influence or weaken the material structure during the manufacturing process. This eliminates most common

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• Eliminate Pin-holing CPX™ technology is a precise and controlled method of manufacturing which eliminates pin-holing caused by inaccurate scoring.

Long-life rupture discs offer unheard of benefits to chemical plant operators. Downtime associated with rupture disc change-out can lead to costly process inefficiencies. The reliability of the CPX™ range allows for a simplification of maintenance schedules and most importantly reduction in costly downtime. There is a CPX™ rupture disc solution for even the most demanding applications within the chemical industry. The IKB®, IKB®-X or the SFD covers an extensive range of burst pressures and specifications to meet most operational requirements. For more information on REMBE®’s range of CPX™ rupture disc solutions for the chemical processing sector contact, REMBE®.

• Eliminate Corrosion No heat is applied to the rupture disc during manufacturing which reduces areas susceptible to corrosion along the opening pattern. The process face is completely smooth meaning a reduction product build-up. • Increase Life-cycling Greater accuracy in manufacturing results in tighter tolerances and more robust discs. The process can be pushed closer to the limits of the disc without risk of causing damage.

Fig. 2: REMBE® rupture disc SFD

T +49 2961 7405-0 hello@rembe.de

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

September 2021 ENGINEERING UPDATE

Laser Marking Machine for Automotive Part Identification

Automation have many years of working with suppliers to the automotive industry as well as with the permanent marking of components and parts for traceability and tracking purposes. The requirement for this project was to build the mechanical package to integrate into the laser marking technology. The machine feeds laser sensitive tape into the desk top Easy Mark laser system. The tape is then laser marked with the pre-programmed relevant part identification information and then also cut to length. The laser also cuts around the tape to provide a peelable label. The “labels” are then ready to be adhered to the automotive components to offer tracking and traceability for the client.

The EasyMark system features a highly reliable fixed fiber laser source, a moving table and powerful software to deliver unmatched quality and consistency. Incorporating this laser marking system into the TF machine ensures superior mark accuracy and consistency for the client - a particularly important advantage when marking high-value components.

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TF Automation were recently commissioned to design and build a machine to laser mark tamperproof labels for part identification of components for a client in the automotive racing industry.

Tony Hubbert, MD at TF Automation, comments, “We have built numerous machines for clients working in the automotive supply chain and we hope to work on more projects with this particular customer. We are seeing that product identification for traceability is ever increasing and tamperproof laser marking technology is ideal for these types of projects. “ www.tfautomation.co.uk

Supporting a wide range of manufacturing industries from automotive, aerospace and defence to medical, printing and packaging, we design and manufacture process automation solutions focusing on improving output and productivity.

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

September 2021 ENGINEERING UPDATE

SEEPEX BACK MIXING TECHNOLOGY INCREASES SLUDGE THROUGHPUT SEEPEX engineered solution encompassing progressive cavity pumps for dewatered sludge back mixing has increased sludge throughput at Anglian Water’s Cotton Valley cake import facility by 50%, enabling the site to generate more biogas, and delivering significant savings in logistics and cake storage costs.

Main image: SEEPEX’s custom made 5m long pumps installed under existing silo.

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nglian Water is the largest water company in England and Wales by geographic area, supplying water and recycling services to over six million domestic customers, processing over 142,000 tonnes of dry solid sewage sludge in 2020-21 to generate 115GWh of bioenergy. The Cotton Valley Sludge Treatment Centre (STC) is one of Anglian Water’s ten main STCs where sludge is dewatered and treated anaerobically to produce bioenergy. In 2008 an advanced digestion Thermal Hydrolysis Process (THP) was commissioned to speed up the anaerobic digestion process. As part of an upgrade a sludge handling facility was designed to handle approx. 160 tonnes a day of imported dewatered sludge from satellite works.

ENGINEERING PDATE September 2021

Long standing problematic application Progressive cavity (PC) pumps (not SEEPEX) were installed to back mix the dewatered sludge and pump it into the THP. The two pumps were costing overall circa £100K per annum due to rotors and stators change every 3-6 months. Their inability to transfer no more than 3.5m3/h (bottleneck and limiting gas production) meant the site was not able to meet the design criteria limiting the amount of imported raw cake being handled to only 120 tonnes per day. Additionally, prior to maintenance, the silo had to be emptied to allow the pumps to be worked on, but also cake imports from satellite sites had to be diverted whilst work was carried out resulting in substantial logistical costs. SEEPEX was invited to survey the site based on their vast experience in pumping and mixing dewatered sludge within Anglian Water’s water recycling treatment sites and sludge treatment centres. Leigh Thornley, Engineer for SEEPEX, says: “We took pride in Anglian Water coming to SEEPEX with the opportunity to resolve a long standing problematic application.”

Custom-made SEEPEX was asked for a complete turnkey package which included the removal of the existing pumps which were installed under a 7m high silo. The new pumps required custom made hoppers which were 5m long to fit under the existing silo, and being able to handle 5.5m3/hr of 16% DS sludge which had been back mixed within the pump from 25% DS and transfer this approx. 60m. Part of the SEEPEX solution was to offer standardisation of pump size with other sludge treatment centres within Anglian Water resulting in commonality of spare parts.

Productivity increased SEEPEX supplied and installed two custom-made pumps from their BTES range with a dimensionally identical hopper to fit within the same footprint of the original pumps whilst delivering over 55% increased throughput capacity from 3.5m3/hr to 5.5m3/hr. SEEPEX BTES range pumps are designed to fit under silos, have custom made hoppers to suit the application and additionally incorporate an isolation devise to enable maintenance of the pumps to take place whilst sludge is left in the silo.

First-time fit Due to the complexities of replacing the existing pumps and the restricted space, the SEEPEX Service Team carried out 3D modelling of the working area to ensure the pumps would fit first time. Over a two week period, the old pumps were removed and the new pumps installed all within the agreed project timeline.

Flexibility to meet production demands Prior to the installation of the new pumps, Anglian Water were processing approx. 120 tonnes per day of imported sludge cake with both pumps running. With the new pumps installed, the customer is now able to exceed this by 50% (from 120 tonnes up to 180 tonnes) whilst maintaining the same footprint and motor size.

The new SEEPEX pumps offer ample flexibility to meet the site’s production demands at lower speeds, which has a direct impact on reducing spare parts consumption. Since the pumps have been installed, no spare parts have been used and the service life has considerably exceeded that of the previous pumps.

A happy ending “Due to the reliability and performance of the new SEEPEX pumps there is an increase in uptime of the cake import facility at Cotton Valley,” explains Luke Fish, Production Manager at Anglian Water. “This has not only allowed us to increase the sludge throughput on site and therefore generate more biogas but has also given us significant savings in logistics and raw cake storage costs.” “Thanks to the capabilities and proven expertise of SEEPEX in cake pumping, installation and management of turnkey projects, we were able to deliver a complete engineered solution for Anglian Water from the initial consultation, site survey, start up and commissioning to continued after sales and service support”, continues Leigh.

www.seepex.com

Above: Pumps from SEEPEX BTES range handle highly viscous to semi-solid products from silos.

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

September 2021 ENGINEERING UPDATE

High-resolution vision sensor with integrated lens Compact design, easy installation: SensoPart’s 5-megapixel sensor VISOR® V50 is now available with integrated lens and lighting, making it unique on the market. An additional version with an increased depth of field allows the flexible detection of objects at fluctuating distances. Thanks to a high resolution of 2560 x 1936 pixels, the versatile vision sensor detects the smallest details, even from longer ranges. Last spring, SensoPart presented a variety of C-mounts for its new VISOR® V50 sensor series, now it is launching the version VISOR® V50 M with an integrated lens. The M stands for “medium field of view”, with a focal width of 20 mm. The focal position of the lens can be easily and comfortably adapted to different distances with the aid of a software-controlled motorised focus. For applications in which detection ranges are not known in advance or frequently change, SensoPart also offers a version with an increased depth of field (VISOR® V50 MD). A typical example of such an application is reading codes on different sized parcels on a conveyor belt. Instead of aligning several sensors at various intervals or with different lenses, a single VISOR® V50 MD easily detects a much broader range of focal positions than comparable products with a conventional lens.

Unique performance and versatility The combination of high resolution, integrated lens and motorised focus is unique in this performance class. SensoPart thereby once again expands the range of applications of its versatile user-friendly VISOR® vision sensors. As with the existing VISOR® V10 and V20 lines, VISOR® V50 M is also available with a choice of monochrome or color chip, and exists in several application-specific pre-configured variants: VISOR® V50 M Object, VISOR® V50 M Robotic, VISOR® V50 M Code Reader and VISOR® V50 M Allround. VISOR® V50 MD comes in the monochrome versions Object and Code Reader. In addition to the lens, lighting is also integrated in the sensor, in the form of eight high-performance LEDs (either white or red). Users of VISOR® V50 M/ MD therefore do not require any additional lenses or external lighting; this simplifies installation and system setup. Flexible connection to parent control systems is possible thanks to state-of-the-art interface protocols, such as sFTP, SSH, EtherNet/IP and Profinet Conformance Class B. Equipped with an IP 67 all-metal housing and a wide operating temperature range of 0 to 50°C, VISOR® V50 M/MD is extremely robust and suitable for industrial applications. © SensoPart Industriesensorik GmbH 2021, Gottenheim

For further information about SensoPart, visit http://www.sensopart.com.

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KRUK half page page generic(2).pdf 1 22/02/2021 2021 ENGINEERING PDATE September

17:09

Contact us now to discover more about practical and affordable leasing terms on all new Kawasaki robots. info@kawasakirobotuk.com robotics.kawasaki.com +44 (0)1925 713000

Kawasaki Robotics (UK) Ltd

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28 - 30 SEPT 2021 NEC, BIRMINGHAM WHERE PRODUCTIVITY MATTERS See the latest processing equipment, packaging machinery, robotics and machine vision in action Gain a competitive advantage through the latest innovations and seminars

ppmashow.co.uk



September 2021 ENGINEERING UPDATE

Weidmüller TTB series measuring transformer terminal blocks – safe current and voltage transformer wiring with a single modular terminal block system Automatic short-circuiting of the transformer before the measuring circuit is disconnected – approved according to IEC 60947-7-1 Annex D – safety-relevant components captively connected to the modular terminal block In power transmission and distribution, current and voltage transformers are used primarily for protection and measurement functions. Weidmüller has developed the new Klippon® Connect measuring transformer terminals of the TTB series for this application, for particularly simple and safe wiring – even within complex circuits. Avoiding operating errors during operation is a top priority here, as they can have serious consequences for personnel and equipment. For this purpose, the Klippon® Connect measuring transformer terminals of the TTB series feature a unique disconnect lever mechanism, the "close-before-open" contact. It increases system availability and extends the life cycle of the entire switchgear. An IEC 60947-7-1 Annex D approval underlines the quality claim. New forced short-circuit functionality The measuring transformer terminals of the TTB series have been specially developed for use in secondary circuits of measuring transformers. For safe application when disconnecting or isolating protection and measuring devices, the terminal short-circuits the current transformer and thus prevents high voltages from occurring in the secondary winding. One of the most important advantages of the new transformer terminal is the "closebefore-open" contact for up to four connections. It ensures that the current transformer within the terminal is shortcircuited before it is disconnected from the rest of the transformer circuit. This prevents the voltage at the current transformer from running up and protects it from damage or even destruction. After short-circuiting the CT side and simultaneously disconnecting Wire current and voltage transformers simply, quickly and safely with the Klippon® Connect measuring transformer terminal blocks of the TTB series

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the primary side, the meter can be easily and safely replaced or a protective relay test can be performed. The combination of disconnecting lever, short-circuit bridge and lever connection in a single system, i.e. the forced short-circuit functionality, guarantees particularly simple and safe wiring. Safe comparison measurement It is just as easy, for example, to connect a reference measuring device for a comparative measurement. Thanks to the patent-pending CM (Comparative Measurement) lever connection, two terminal blocks can be selectively disconnected in order to interconnect a calibrated measuring device. After the measurement, the captive lever is reset to the original position, leaving the "close-before-open" contact active. A unique feature of the TTB series that guarantees the highest safety for personnel and equipment. The switching state of the TTB series instrument transformer terminals is easily visible in all lighting conditions. The disconnect lever can be operated by hand or with a standard screwdriver. It also facilitates the realisation of multipole actuations. All other features of the compact clamp are also designed for maximum safety, ease of operation and convenience, as required by such demanding measurement applications. All functional and safety-relevant components are captively connected to the terminal block. A switching lock blocks the disconnect lever in the respective position, thus preventing the unintentional opening and closing of circuits. Crossconnection channels upstream and downstream of the disconnect point ensure maximum flexibility. This means that even more complex circuit requirements can be implemented with standardised accessories such as short-circuit bridges, lever connectors and test sockets. To complement this, The combination of disconnect lever, shortcircuit bridge and lever connection in a single system guarantees that the secondary wiring of a current transformer is short-circuited before the longitudinal disconnection takes place.

Weidmüller also offers a PE terminal with the same contour, which can be used to install a star point very quickly and easily. Generous marking areas and an extensive colour palette for coding terminals and accessories provide a clear overview during installation and service work. The measuring transformer terminal blocks of the TTB series also adapt flexibly to different customer specifications. The integrated combination foot allows mounting on the two common mounting rail profiles G 32 and TH 35. In addition, the terminal blocks are available with either PUSH IN or screw connection. A transparent protective cover system is available for particularly sensitive applications. Its cover can only be fixed when all connection components are in their initial position. In this way, the assembly is comprehensively protected against incorrect operation, unauthorised access and contamination without impairing visual inspection. Data-supported product configuration and accessory selection In the planning phase of plants and systems, intelligent interaction between digital article data and interlinked engineering tools is essential. The Weidmüller Configurator (WMC) provides all data sets in full for simple preparation and article selection in the planning phase. The simple assistance function guarantees a reliable configuration of the strip, even if the user knows neither the product name nor the article number. The WMC is additionally characterised by a particularly rational product configuration as well as the simple selection of safety-critical accessory items. The extensive database of the measuring transformer terminals of the TTB series is already integrated into the WMC. For more information visit www.weidmuller.co.uk

Everything, without surprises

Perfect solutions for reliable food production RANTY AR

years if m p r o d

With intelligent and robust sensors, ifm offers solutions for the most demanding production environments found in the food industry. The intelligent MVQ valve sensor continuously monitors valve position and has diagnostic outputs for valve seat and stroke time errors. This prevents unpredictable, costly production downtime whilst maintaining product quality. The O6 Wet Line optical sensor and full-metal inductive sensors performance is uncompromised in high humidity environments. They are also resistant to high pressure water and chemical washdown. In combination with matching ecolink connectors, a guaranteed watertight connection, up to IP69K, makes sudden sensor failures due to moisture ingress a thing of the past! All of these sensors transmit their process and diagnostic data, digitally and without any conversion losses via IO-Link: avoiding any unwanted surprises. ifm – close to you!

Go ifmonline ifm.com/ uk

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September 2021 ENGINEERING UPDATE

The nuts and bolts of confident bonding.

Bondloc is an ISO 9001:2015 certified UK manufacturer of industrial adhesives and sealants with over 2000 adhesive formulations in their portfolio. The business was built on anaerobic adhesives over 25 years ago and this core range still accounts for over 40% of their UK sales. But what’s the secret of this little genie in a bottle and why is anaerobic chemistry still such an integral part of engineering and maintenance today? Threaded fasteners were invented more than 2,000 years ago and are still widely used in machinery design and assembly, although usage is declining. These traditional fastening methods have many flaws; they can self-loosen, particularly under the stress of heat or vibration, resulting in downtime, quality issues, recalls, corrosion and increased maintenance. Regardless of how small the gap, side to side movement of the bolt within the nut caused by operational vibrations will eventually cause the bolt to loosen, with sometimes catastrophic results. Anaerobic threadlockers replace mechanical threadlocking devices and offer tangible benefits in terms of productivity, efficiency and safety. These single component acrylic polymers have an anaerobic

cure system that remains in a liquid form until air is absent and contact is made with metal ions. A liquid threadlocker will fill all voids between mating threads and solidifies to form a thermoset plastic that unitises the assembly. Threadlockers also coat the entire thread and are resistant to water, solvents and oils. They serve the dual purpose as sealants and prevent corrosion from liquids, gases and air-born contaminants such as dust which would otherwise compromise bolted assemblies. Cleanup is easy since any excess adhesive remains as an easily wiped-away liquid. Bondloc has an extensive portfolio of threadlocking adhesives, including COSHH free safer products. They have varying differentials in viscosity, strength, temperature resistance, cure speed and flexibility. For more specific or unique applications, formulations can be modified and then manufactured in-house. Either way, to determine the best product to use for the job, three main questions must be asked. What’s the fastener size? Which strength is needed? How frequently will the assembly need to be serviced? But should we also challenge the efficacy of the products we purchase by asking our suppliers if their published data stacks up? The answer is most definitely, yes. Every adhesive product purchased is underpinned with a technical data sheet and a material safety data sheet. Continual quality testing and benchmarking of products versus competitors is common practice at the Bondloc laboratory by independent technicians. The most recent tests have shown yet again that product performance not only consistently meets the published data but also exceeds its peers’ performance. Bondloc is confident in saying, they won’t be beaten on price or performance. The Bondloc technical team welcome calls from industrial adhesive users to discuss specific projects, challenges, data, free sampling and potential cost savings. Contact the team today and put Bondloc products to the test. Let’s Stick Together. Bondloc UK Ltd www.bondloc.co.uk

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September 2021 ENGINEERING UPDATE

IR Temperature Measurement to monitor Induction Hardening processes In many industries, the use of non-contact temperature measurement for accurate process control has become indispensable at a multitude of manufacturing steps. In many cases high product quality can only be achieved by precisely monitoring and controlling the process temperature.

nduction hardening is one example of an industrial process that requires tight temperature monitoring and control to achieve a high-quality product, which translates directly into increased profitability for the manufacturer. The induction heating process thermal control requirements can be optimized through the use of noncontact temperature measurement and appropriate controllers to precisely control process power. Pyrometers enable accurate and precise temperature measurement and provide the repeatability that is critical for such induction processes. Moreover, pyrometers are capable of the very fast measurement speeds required for rapid thermal processes such as induction heating. During induction hardening and tempering, a particular spot of the workpiece (such as precision parts made of steel or cast steel) is heated up and subsequently quenched rapidly. Typically, only a specific area on the surface of the workpiece is selectively heated.

This method of selective rapid heating and quenching of a workpiece is critical in achieving the desired hardness of the material. When hardening the surfaces of steel, cast steel or cast-iron components, the following properties must be achieved: • The component has to attain the required hardness on all desired areas

• The desired or required hardness depth has to be achieved • The component must not be damaged • The mechanical distortion of the component should be minimal • The process should be as short as possible • The results have to be repeatable The key to meeting all of these requirements is to ensure that the workpiece is heated and cooled with the correct temperature profile, which requires the accurate and repeatable realtime monitoring and the control of the temperature. Temperatures which are too low lead to a hardness depth which is too shallow, and temperatures which are too high may result in damage to the component. The ramp rate and duration at temperature also plays a significant role.

Fig. 1: Induction hardening process of a cogwheel

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Fig. 2 process temperature monitoring without contact by using an IR pyrometer

To monitor the temperature accurately and precisely in a production environment, infrared pyrometers are an excellent solution (see Figure 2). They are non-contact, just like the induction heating process, so they will not contaminate or damage the part, and easily handle moving parts. Fig. 2 process temperature monitoring without contact by using an IR pyrometer The frequency response is fast, allowing control during fast rampup and quenching. They can be very accurate and have a wide temperature range, but there are technical details that must be considered carefully when selecting the best type of pyrometer for a specific process, which is discussed below.

Pyometer solutions for induction hardening processes Depending on the specific process requirements, induction hardening of metals can take place over a wide range of temperatures. Various types of pyrometers can be used to measure

Read more at Engineering-Update.co.uk

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Whether you are visiting or exhibiting, you can experience being part of the latest Super HD 3D exhibition at IndustryExpo. The show is open 24/7 and features the latest products from a range of the world’s leading brands. Book now to reserve your stand or find out about our exclusive offers for online product launches, seminars and conference packages.

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September 2021 ENGINEERING UPDATE

The term ‘Virtual Exhibition’ has been used for a while by columnists in the mainstream media, in blogs by futurists and by tech developers for commercial projects. However, despite the popularity of the term, the reality is that most virtual exhibitions have been nothing more than online directories or webinars, until now. Industryexpo online is different – built on a web platform that uses high-res CGI and dynamic rendering that allows visitors to attend the show in the first person using a mobile device, tablet or PC We've seen plenty of exciting developments so far this year at Industry Expo. The trade show floor is bigger and better, thanks to updates in our 3D technologies, which also make it even easier to navigate. When Industryexpo opened its doors to online visitors in 2018 nobody could have predicted how rapidly the digital events landscape was going to change and we have continually pushed the boundaries of this next generation of digital marketing. The show, which is live year-round, has daily footfall in the thousands and offers visitors the opportunity to chat directly with exhibitors or register their interest for one-to-one meetings, attend webinars and will shortly be announcing a series of conferences with live Q&A follow up sessions. With a truly multi-national audience, the emphasis is on promoting the global capabilities of the exhibitors and partners. Our visitors are industry professionals who have design, specification and purchasing responsibilities at their place of work, typically

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from the manufacturing and service industries, with specific interests in automation systems, components & equipment, design, energy efficiency, integration, logistics & warehousing, maintenance, materials handling, processes & production, safety, and training. Exhibitor stands are constantly updated promoting new products, services, and solutions; registered visitors can access the platform using a PC, laptop, or mobile device without having to download any specialist software or apps. Recent visitors include representatives from companies including Princes Foods, Severn Trent Water, Jaguar Land Rover, Nestle, Pernod-Ricard, Honda, Allied Bakeries, Thames Water, Arla Foods, Anglian Water, Dover Port, Halo Foods, Pirelli, PepsiCo, Toyota, Merlin Entertainment, Veolia, Tata Steel. With such a pedigree of visitor it’s no surprise that industryexpo has been popular with businesses of all sizes. This, the first of a series of industryexpo review supplements in partnership with Engineering Update Magazine we offer a selection of our current exhibitors, register to view the whole event at https://industryvirtualexhibition.com/login

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Industry Expo

September 2021 ENGINEERING UPDATE

ABLOY UK offer a complete package of compliant digital access control, electromechanical and mechanical locking systems to fulfil virtually any locking solution you need, and suitable for credentials including cards, fobs, mobile phones ….and keys. The Abloy product range has been substantially expanded with new, innovative electromechanical and digital systems such as CLIQ®, Incedo™ Business, Aperio®, SMARTair™ and BEAT to create an extensive, compliant access control range. The virtual stand showcases innovative new products including INCEDO™ BUSINESS and ABLOY BEAT. Incedo is a universal access control ecosystem that incorporates software and hardware into a single management platform that is ideal for small to medium businesses. Incedo is an access control system that can adapt to a business’s individual security needs, so they can benefit from one system that links all security solutions a building may have, and integrates them into one easy to manage system. Our stand also features ABLOY BEAT, the new digital super weather-proof IP68 rated keyless padlock that is opened and locked using a mobile phone. View the CLIQ locking and key management systems which are ideal for critical infrastructure protection, Compliant Electric Locking, Escape Door Systems and Digital Access Control products ideal for education, hospitality, commercial buildings, residential, healthcare. CPD webinars, videos, downloadable brochures and case studies, and has been designed to help visitors explore a variety of access control solutions.

A premier industrial, global manufacturer and supplier of motion control, automation, power transmission, and engine braking systems and components. Its virtual stand offers the latest advancements in these fields, making it the perfect resource for specifiers, end users and engineers. All leading brands of Altra are represented, with links to each brand website. Ameridrives, Bauer Gear Motor, Bibby Turboflex, Boston Gear, Delroyd Worm Gear, Formsprag Clutch, Guardian Couplings, Huco, Jacobs Vehicle Systems, Kilian, Kollmorgen, Lamiflex Couplings, Marland Clutch, Matrix, Nuttall Gear, Portescap, Stieber, Stromag, Svendborg Brakes, TB Wood’s, Thomson, Twiflex, Warner Electric, Warner Linear and Wichita Clutch. Videos, downloads and literature provides visitors an unrivalled overview of the capabilities of each brand. By interacting with hotspots, visitors can access relevant content and external links to websites, as well as a contact form for direct enquiries. On display include actuators, automation equipment, brakes, clutches, couplings, engine braking and valve actuation systems, monitoring systems, motors, speed reducers and torque limiters. https://industryvirtualexhibition.com/show/altra/

Encoders are indispensable wherever precise measurement and supervision of speed, direction of travel, distance travelled, and position of mechanical elements or number of rotations performed is necessary. In any case, the encoder invariably affects the proper and efficient functioning of machines and systems. It is therefore a small investment in great profits of enterprises. British Encoder Products (BEPC) is the European branch of the Encoder Products Group, a worldwide manufacturer of motion sensing and control devices. BEPC offers two major types of encoders, linear measurement encoders, as the TR1 Tru-Trac™ or New Draw Wire Encoder (LCX), and rotary encoders like the Model A58HE which is an EtherCAT or PROFINET-ready. Linear encoders have a read head and track. This will produce an output for distance travelled typically in pulses per inch (PPI). Where rotary encoder converts the angular movement of a rotational device and will have an output for rotation about the fixed axis typically in pulses per revolution (PPR). BEPC encoders are increasingly becoming the basic elements of automation systems in industries as: • Machine building

• Food & Beverage

• Robotics

• Printing

• Automation and sorting

• Material Handling

• Aerospace

• Mobile equipment, etc.

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Industry Expo

A leading manufacturer of control and measuring systems for fluids and gases. The products serve a wide variety of applications and are used by breweries and laboratories as well as in medical engineering and space technology. The company’s virtual stand features fresh content and navigation. It showcases the latest products in photoreal HD 3D, intended to bring viewers as close as possible to seeing the real thing while offering the convenience of 365 days a year access online. Visitors can get the low-down on new products from each of the company’s main technology sectors: water, gas, hygienic and micro. Plus, there are dedicated areas for game-changing new innovations such as the FLOWave flowmeter, Type 8905 online water analysis system and 8652 AirLINE intelligent valve island. Content includes images, applications, literature, video interviews with product experts and much more. industryvirtualexhibition.com/show/burkert/

A leading manufacturer of innovative motion control technologies, supplying servo drives, controllers, and integrated motors. Harsh environment products that can operate in extreme conditions with temperatures ranging from -40° C to 70° C, altitudes of up to 40,000 feet, and high mechanical shocks or intense vibrations. Headquarters in Israel with global locations, UK, USA, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, Poland, China, Korea and Singapore

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September 2021 ENGINEERING UPDATE

ExcelRedstone has been at the vanguard of IT infrastructure and support for more than 30 years. Working with clients across Europe, the Middle East, Africa and beyond, we have developed a comprehensive portfolio of services with capability across all elements of the datacentre and the office / campus. In recent years, we have expanded our service offering and widened our geographic reach. The newly enlarged ExcelRedstone group, which includes Kedington, has one of the largest sales, design and delivery teams in the UK and Irish markets. We believe that by optimising investments in infrastructure with smarter support, network automation and wider building management, all organisations can significantly improve their operational and financial returns on that investment. The result is our Smarter Infrastructure philosophy, which places an emphasis on leveraging the skills and abilities of the very best engineers in the business with class-leading toolsets and technology.

HT Servo is the exclusive representative for the Aerospace and Defence market in the UK for the world's leading motion control companies.

For the UK, the Fulton name has been synonymous with heat transfer products since the company was established in Bristol in 1966. It is still recognised as one of the world’s leading manufacturers, producing an unrivalled range of multi-fuel-fired heat transfer solutions, which are increasingly ordered by customers as part of bespoke turnkey systems designed to meet exacting specifications.

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ENGINEERING PDATE September 2021

The Fulton name has been synonymous with steam since the company first introduced the vertical tubeless steam boiler in 1949 and Fulton was established in Bristol in 1966. And Fulton is still one of the world’s leading manufacturers, producing an unrivalled range of heat transfer solutions, including steam and thermal fluid systems, but increasingly these are ordered by customers as part of bespoke turnkey systems designed to meet exacting specifications. To d a y F u l t o n L i m i t e d i s an important design and manufacturing base in Fulton’s global network that also includes production facilities in the USA and China. The company’s UK facility makes it possible to manufacture products more efficiently and assemble completed units for whenever and wherever they are needed throughout the UK and in export markets. The company puts great emphasis in providing sales and application advice and a full commissioning and after sales service to a growing customer base in hospital and healthcare facilities, food and beverage processing, laundries and other applications.

Design and manufacturing resources are shared and coordinated around the world, but no matter where your product originates, it will always be produced to the highest quality in a facility that is wholly owned and managed by the Fulton Group, which remains a privately owned family business. Fulton’s heat transfer solutions can be delivered as a stand-alone boiler or a complete skid-mounted solution that is built to fit a prepared location and connect direct to services. Using the latest CAD equipment, Fulton can accommodate the most sophisticated engineering specifications in surprisingly compact spaces, locating components in the best possible position to suit the installation.

In every sense, today’s Fulton heat transfer systems are solutions that fit the requirements of the modern age. Further information on the latest products and services available from Fulton can be found on our virtual exhibition at https://bit.ly/2R50aqO, by emailing sales@fulton.co.uk or by calling +44 (0)117 972 3322.

IS YOUR STEAM BOILER OR BOILER HOUSE LEGAL?

DID YOU KNOW?

YOUR LEGAL REQUIREMENT

OUR APPROACH

All companies operating a steam boiler should have a technical risk assessment in place for its boiler/s and boiler house?

A technical boiler house risk assessment is required by law under the Management of Health & Safety at Work Regulations 1999 and is necessary to comply with the requirements of SAFed document BG01, HSE INDG 436 and HSE INDG 417 Rev1, under which steam or hot water plant should be operated.

Fulton takes a collaborative approach to risk assessments and uses only experienced steam boiler and steam system engineers - with vast knowledge of steam, water and condensate systems - to carry out assessments and report on their ﬁndings.

To ﬁnd out more about why you need a Technical Boiler House Risk Assessment and how Fulton can assist, visit www.fulton.co.uk, email aftersales@fulton.co.uk or call +44 (0)117 972 3322.

Improving life through heat transfer solutions

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Industry Expo

Modern sensors for packaging machines are quick, reliable and precise – from simple position monitoring to optical quality control. Today packaging machines are as varied as their applications. Besides primary and secondary packaging, there’s a difference between solid and liquid goods. ifm offers different sensor types, for example for dry or hygienic areas to detect position, volume and level. 2D and 3D vision systems check contours, volume or labelling. 1D/2D code readers and RFID systems for product identification complete ifm’s product portfolio in this field.

Lafert is a leading motor company that has built a reputation for the manufacture of customised Electric Motors and Drives. Focused on the areas of Industrial Automation, Energy Saving and Wind Power, With the target to improve performance while reducing environmental impact, energy efficiency and product customisation. Over 90% of the units produced are non-standard motors.

Infologic Design (formerly Infolytica Europe) has provided state-of-the-art Electromagnetic solutions since 1978, supplying design and modelling software for electromagnetic devices, plus offering consulting and analysis services. Engineers from a wide range of industries across Europe use our software tools and services for the design and analysis of applications, including electromechanical devices such as electric motors and generators, non-destructive testing (NDT/NDE), loudspeakers, actuators, sensors, induction heating, and industrial transformers. We have the expertise, built over more than 40 years, to assist our customers select the best options for their needs, provide training, and give a high level of technical support. This includes consulting services, ranging from analysis to design and device optimisation. With our partners we also provide the manufacture of electric motor prototypes, and small to medium scale production of the final motor.

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September 2021 ENGINEERING UPDATE

As a leading supplier of sensors, measuring systems, laser markers, microscopes, and machine vision systems worldwide, KEYENCE is at the forefront of factory automation. In addition to our world-class products, KEYENCE offers a full range of services, our technically trained direct sales force is able to solve tough applications and answer technical questions about our products. We also provide fast shipping so customers can improve their processes as quickly as possible. KEYENCE is dedicated to adding value to our customers by combining superior technology with unparalleled support.

High quality and high accuracy are the main reasons our customers choose IKO. A variety of products that meet a wide range of needs. Products that include Needle Roller Bearings, linear motion rolling guides, and precision positioning tables that integrate control electrical components and friction reduction mechanisms.

The Sensor People of Leuze have been driving innovation and technological milestones in industrial automation for more than 50 years. Driven by the success of their customers. Yesterday. Today. Tomorrow. The technology leader’s high-tech product range includes a number of different sensors for automation technology. Among these are switching and measuring sensors, identification systems, and data transmission and image processing solutions. Leuze is focused on components, services and solutions for safety at work. Leuze concentrates on its core industries, in which the Sensor People have extensive, specific application know-how and many years of experience. These include intralogistics and the packaging industry, machine tools, the automotive industry as well as laboratory automation. Established in 1990, as a subsidiary company Leuze UK offers the full range of sales and technical support across the whole of the UK and Ireland. On the Leuze stand (B108 you can find information on all the latest products plus videos showing practical industrial applications including the latest Industry 4.0 devices.

Creating transformation. Yesterday. Today. Tomorrow. The Sensor People have been setting technological standards in industrial automation for more than 50 years. This is how we ensure the success of our customers in an industry that is ever evolving. We have been a forerunner from the start, and we are working on standardizing industrial communication. We offer sensors that deliver data, e.g., through IO-Link or via OPC UA, to the control or make it available to the cloud and edge devices.

www.leuze.com

Industry Expo

Megger Group Limited is a British manufacturing company that manufactures electronic test equipment and measuring instruments for electrical power applications. The company is known for its electrical insulation testers

Established in 1987, Optimal Industrial Automation is a leading system integrator based in the UK with enviable experience in providing regulatory-compliant automation solutions for various industries and complex processes. In particular, supporting businesses in highly regulated sectors, such as pharmaceutical, chemical, food and beverage, green energy as well as aerospace. We have a range of bespoke and standardised automation and product solutions, covered by comprehensive application support. Expert engineers, qualified in software, electrical, vision, robotics, mechanical and control hardware disciplines. Optimal is accredited to ISO 9001:2008 and ISO 27001:2013, we are fully conversant with the requirements of GAMP and our systems are designed and manufactured in compliance with appropriate quality standards. Our virtual stand offers photorealistic 3D renders of bespoke, fully automated machines recently developed for customers. Visitors can also browse literature, watch videos and read case. https://industryvirtualexhibition.com/show/ optimal-industrial-automation/

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September 2021 ENGINEERING UPDATE

Since 1994 Motion Control Products Ltd has been at the forefront of advanced motion control and automation system solutions provider, involving the supply and technical support of leading-edge products. MCP's main product range include stepper and servo motors and drives, brushless / stepper motors with integrated electronics, electric actuators (with IP rating up to IP69K), motion controllers, planetary / harmonic gearboxes, collaborative robots, linear products and slip rings. As today's industry strives for continuous improvements on efficiency, increased output and reduced costs, MCP has introduced a number of new lines for 2021/2022. These include: • The compact yet super powerful FlexPro servodrives (up to 100A peak) from AMC USA; • Piezoelectric motors (linear & rotary) from Piezo Motions Inc. which combine superior nanometre precision with fast response at a very commercial cost against other ironless rotor motors; • High precision integrated harmonic geared motors for robotics and AGV applications. • Most hygienic washdown integrated electric actuators IMA-S (IP69K) for food processing and packaging; • The largest machine profile extrusion range with a host of aluminium profiles including the new CarboSix, which is the only carbon structural profiles in the world; • High-accuracy modular encoders available in incremental, absolute and commutation versions Motion Control Products Ltd continue to partner the most respected names in industry and provide the solutions for high power density, high precision, small form factor and extreme environment applications such as robotics, UAV, ROV, AGV, medical devices, surveillance and defence. With offices located in the USA, Hong Kong and China, why not make Motion Control Products your first choice as an all-in-one-stop global automation components and system motion partner

Specialists in Electromagnetic Design and Analysis Infologic Design (formerly Infoytica Europe) has provided advanced Electromagnetic design and analysis tools since 1978 including both general purpose, and motor specific, design software. Simcenter™ MAGNET™ is a general purpose 2D and 3D FE analysis software for electromechanical devices including; electrical machines; nondestructive testing (NDT); power electronics; induction heating; sensors; and industrial transformers. It includes thermal analysis and optimisation, plus links 3rd party software tools.

Motor designers can rapidly simulate and get motor performance characteristics using Simcenter™ Motorsolve™ – the powerful software that offers their complete analysis needs in one design environment.

The template-based interface combined with the variational geometry modelling makes the software easy to use yet flexible enough to handle virtually any motor design, including induction, synchronous, electronically and brush-commutated machines, including BLDC Generators.

Infologic Design Ltd

5 Greenside, Wappenham NN12 8SH, UK Tel: +44 (0)1327 810383; Email: enquiries@infologicdesign.co.uk infologic design

www.infologicdesign.co.uk

Industry Expo

The quality of your infrastructure has a direct impact on the success of your business. As a leader in infrastructure products and services for data networks and electrical power applications, Panduit helps you create connectivity solutions that give you the ability to become more productive and adaptable across your organization. Although the world has dramatically changed since our story began in 1955 when our founder Jack E. Caveney invented the Panduct wiring duct in his garage, our spirit of discovery and can-do attitude have remained. Choosing to innovate rather than imitate, we continue to create leading-edge physical electrical and network infrastructure solutions across a wide spectrum of business environments. As a customer-focused company, we pride ourselves on creating a continuous flow of new products, software, and solutions designed to help you achieve your business goals. By partnering with Panduit, you can develop your connectivity strategy on a foundation that ensures scalability, accuracy, security, and reliability, so you can build for long-term growth.

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September 2021 ENGINEERING UPDATE

RIFT Actuators Limited is a manufacturing company located within the West Midlands. We supply Innovative Smart Electric Actuators across multiple industries across the globe. Each of our Actuators incorporates our own RIFT Technology which is one of our main contributors to having an energy saving product. Key features for being a sustainable company translates not only through our innovative technology but also through our composites used. Taking the innovative design from our RAS, RAM, RAL and RSUB series, each one of our Actuators is comprised of a single glass reinforced nylon housing which contains our RIFT motor system and gearbox, producing a range of output torques from 0-400Nm. RIFT Actuators can be fully configured using the ‘RIFT App’ found in the Google Playstore on many Android devices. Control the valve remotely, allow for preventative maintenance (TPM) of your valves, other facilities include feedback analytics, product set up and control.

Routeco was formed in 1978 and successfully established itself as one of the Europe’s leading distributors of industrial automation and control products. The company has expanded with operations in the UK, Austria, Benelux, and the Netherlands. Our focus is providing customers with the very best choice of products from leading manufacturers from around the world packaged together with a range of value-added services. We pride ourselves on our technical expertise and being able to provide relevant information and advice to our customers. Routeco, authorised distributor for Rockwell Automation allows us to be at the forefront of automation innovation. Rockwell Automation, the world's largest company dedicated to industrial automation and information, their flagship 'Allen-Bradley' and 'Rockwell Software' product brands are recognised for innovation and excellence. Automation and Software, Drives and Motion, Safety and Sensing, Industrial Control Gear, Vision Solutions, Robotics

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ENGINEERING PDATE September 2021

Exhibiting at IndustryExpo Virtual Exhibition delivers a full year’s digital marketing!! Our digital packages offer: • Booth build and hotspot population • Stats visitor tracking package, technical support & chat function • Marketing of your virtual booth & brand through our e-newsletters, trade press, media partners, social media & our databases. • VIP invites direct to your booth for your customers and prospects. • Full use of the auditorium for presentations. • Update content on your stand throughout the year keeping it fresh and interesting. • Personalised avatar of a member of staff on the booth to introduce the company and product offerings to the visitor. • Place the booth on your website and promotional material. • Use as a visual sales tool when visiting customers • Offer goody bags, send or deliver in person opening the dialogue direct with the customer • 3x3 & 6x3 shell schemes or bespoke options available.

Contact us today to for your digital package nigel@industryvirtualexhibition.com Tel: 01892 956493 sara@industryvirtualexhibition.com Tel: 01982 956492

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Industry Expo

Radwell International stocks and sells New and Surplus Industrial Automation, MRO, Pneumatic, Motion, electronic, hydraulic, HVAC and electrical control equipment for plant floor and facility maintenance machinery. We also have full component level Repair capabilities for all industrial electronic and electrical equipment. We also buy Surplus Industrial Controls. See our complete Line Card of brands you will find here at Radwell.co.uk.

AEMT is the association that represents engineering companies who supply, install, service, maintain and repair, industrial machinery technology.

Rebo Systems is established in 1976 and has a loyal, knowledgeable and time served staff group. We are widely recognized in Europe as a leading manufacturer and supplier of specialist, industrial sign and labelling systems. We are dedicated to answering the sign and labelling needs of the industry and energy sector. Rebo Systems products give total, in-house, control of the creation, delivery and cost of the ever expanding sign and label requirements of today’s modern world.

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September 2021 ENGINEERING UPDATE

Moore International, the experts in ballscrews, leadscrews, linear guides and bearings. Moore are the UK's leading distributor of Swiss-made Eichenberger Gewinde ballscrews and leadscrews. They also stock trapezoidal leadscrews in various stock lengths in addition to bronze, steel and cast iron nuts and a variety of anti-backlash nuts. Moore International also provide Ground Ballscrews and Satellite Roller Screws, this coupled with Ballscrew Repairs offer a full service for your linear needs.

Wth headquarters and operations in Modena, we produce, design and distribute hydraulic components such as pumps, motors, brakes and valves for mobile, industrial, marine and wind applications. We specialize in the integration of complete hydraulic systems that involve the use of fluid technology in connection with electronics.

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ENGINEERING PDATE September 2021

Encoders

Frameless Motors

Integrated Motors

Piezo Motors

Servo Drives

Strain-waved Gearboxes

Electric Actuators IP69K

Motion Control Components & System Solution Provider • • • • •

Any Voltage Any Current Any Network Any Feedback Any Motor

Tel.: +44 (0)1202 599922 | sales@motioncontrolproducts.com

www.motioncontrolproducts.com Motion Control Products Ltd, 11-15 Francis Avenue, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK, BH11 8NX

RIFT Actuators RIFT Actuators Limited is a manufacturing company located within the West Midlands. We supply Innovative Smart Electric Actuators across multiple industries across the globe. Featuring our extensive product range, each one of our Actuators incorporates our own RIFT Technology which is one of our main contributors to having an energy saving product. One of our key features for being a sustainable company translates not only through our innovative technology but also through our composites used within our product range. Taking the innovative design from our RAS, RAM, RAL and RSUB series, each one of our Actuators is comprised of a single glass reinforced nylon housing which contains our RIFT motor system and gearbox, producing a range of output torques from 0-400Nm. Each one of our RIFT Actuators can be fully configured using our own ‘RIFT App’ that can be found in the Google Playstore on many Android

devices. The main purpose is to control the valve remotely, allow for total preventative maintenance (TPM) of your valves, ensuring that you are in control when there appears to be a valve deterioration. Other facilities include feedback analytics, product set up and control. If you’re interested to find out more about what we do at RIFT, please find us on any of our Social Media accounts below and check out our latest video on youtu.be/_QadTvei8bc to review our Valve Actuator unique selling properties. Alternatively, please feel free to contact us on 01684 368523 or email - sales@riftactuators.com

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Industry Expo

Spelsberg UK offers a range of design, customisation and assembly services in-house. This makes it a one-stop-shop for electrical installers or design engineers who want a technical partner to ensure that their systems are as reliable and efficient as possible. It’s this focus on customer service that has seen Spelsberg becomes the supplier of choice for leading OEMs and contractors in industries as diverse as Construction, Civil Engineering, Defence, Power Generation and Building Automation. The company’s virtual stand promotes some of Spelsberg’s most popular enclosures including its fire rated WKE range; the rugged GEOS outdoor enclosures; and innovative IBT junction boxes, which are designed for use in precast concrete construction projects. In addition to some of the most popular enclosure ranges, the latest company literature and a series of videos as well as a direct link to Spelsberg’s online product finder are accessible. The virtual exhibition stand is a content rich - yet highly visual - digital platform that will allow potential new customers to quickly grasp the scale of our product range and access information about our technical capabilities.

industryvirtualexhibition.com/show/spelsberg

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September 2021 ENGINEERING UPDATE

Sulzer is a global leader in fluid engineering. It specializes in pumping, agitation, mixing, separation and application technologies for fluids of all types. Sulzer’s customers benefit from the company’s commitment to innovation, performance and quality and from our responsive network of 180 world-class production facilities. Sulzer’s virtual stand features a diverse range of advanced products and services and key capabilities together under one (virtual) roof. The stand enables viewers to interact with what is on display, including videos, animations and 3D models, brochures and other literature. Visitors can explore 1:1, true to scale, renders of facilities and equipment that would be impossible to incorporate into a physical exhibition. The company’s experience in the rail sector is brought to life with the virtual passenger train, which offers a unique insight into the company’s comprehensive support for key pieces of equipment. This includes preventative maintenance and reverse engineering of new parts to extend their operational life as well as improve the efficiency and reliability of important assets to minimize downtime and boost productivity.

industryvirtualexhibition.com/show/sulzer/

WEG is a global manufacturer of electrical and mechanical equipment for industrial sectors across all continents. With manufacturing units in 12 countries and present in more than 135 countries. Offering energy efficient solutions across all sectors including water, steel, pulp and paper, oil and gas, mining, among many others, WEG is constantly developing solutions to meet the major trends in energy efficiency, renewable energy, sustainability and electric mobility

WITTENSTEIN offers planetary gearboxes, servo right-angle gearboxes, servo actuators, complete rack and pinion systems, design tools for the entire drive train and accessories. Our portfolio includes cost-effective serial solutions as well as customer-specific high-end developments.

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industryvirtualexhibition.com/login/

ENGINEERING PDATE September 2021

Customisation

Saving money in-build and on-site...

See the full customisation video on YouTube

Tel: 01952 605849 Email: sales@spelsberg.co.uk Web: www.spelsberg.co.uk

GR5034_Customised Half Page Ad_Resize_PBSI.indd 1

I N D U S T R I A L

Find out more

29/01/2019 10:53:33

A N D

O U T D O O R

E N C L O S U R E S

GEOS

Tough. Flexible. Safe. Can your enclosure offer the same combination?

Tel: 01952 605849 Email: sales@spelsberg.co.uk Web: www.spelsberg.co.uk

GR5036_GEOS Enclosure Advert_Design Solutions.indd 1

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September 2021 ENGINEERING UPDATE

Snap-on’s Level 5™ asset management system is network ready As engineering managers cope with relentless pressure to deliver improved productivity, often with fewer skilled hands and tighter budgets, the benefits of professional tool storage and management become stronger than ever. Snap-on Industrial’s Level 5™ automated total asset management system brings order to any workplace, enabling engineers and technicians to know exactly where to find every tool they need, when they need it, saving time and easing stress.

How useful would it be if all your workshop’s valuable tools could be tracked from one central point? Snap-on’s Level 5™ system makes that possible. It provides complete reports on everything managers or supervisors need to keep an eye on. They are even informed when a tool needs to be refilled or ordered. And then there’s FOD. The threat of foreign object damage is a real and present danger in many engineering workplaces. Using Snap-on Level 5™ minimises the risk of human error, as automated tool control constantly tracks every tool and detects which tools have been removed or returned, ensuring greater protection against FOD. Engineered to track individual tools by user, without bar codes, scanners, RFID tags or other add-ons, the system works at the speed its users demand. Other systems require additional steps to scan or log activity. The Snap-on system does this automatically so users save time and don’t have to depend on other steps to ensure accurate results. Snap-on’s Level 5™ ATC boxes are network ready, using either Ethernet or wireless connection. That enables users to review activity at all Level 5 boxes in their location from one central computer, avoiding the time consuming need to inspect each box.

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Major benefits of the system include: • No individual tool scanning required; • No RFID tags to install or replace; • No limitations on tool size: from ¼” screwdriver bit to just less than the size of the drawer; • Intuitive interface, with an easy to use touchscreen • Audible voice confirmation of tool removal and replacement • Automatic locking for maximum security • Errors announced and displayed to indicate incorrect tool position or advise when a drawer is not closed. Says Richard Packham, Director UK & Europe for Snap-on Industrial: “Snapon’s automated system takes asset management to an entirely new level. The ability to monitor several boxes from one central computer offers a huge advantage to engineering managers.”

For technical details visit: www.snaponlevel5.com, call (01536) 413904 or e-mail: ukindustrialmarketing@snapon.com

PIONEERS OF SPACE

For every room, there’s a Teknomek solution. We can help you find new ideas and methods to support improved efficiency and smarter risk management, which will ultimately improve your performance.

For more information get in touch today W: teknomek.co.uk T: 01603 788 833

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September 2021 ENGINEERING UPDATE

The ABC of milling By Mark Guest - Product Manager for Power Distribution Systems

Milling, drilling, thread tapping – there are very few switchgear manufacturers who love metalworking. Fortunately, there is a solution! Automated machining centres such as the Perforex MT can help. The following three tips show how it can be used to its full advantage. The task of machining enclosures, housings and mounting plates takes switchgear manufacturers a lot of time if they have to carry out the work by hand. It can easily add up to four hours or more – reading through plans, marking out holes, tapping threads, deburring cut-outs and then cleaning the machined parts. In a small company that doesn’t have a dedicated metalworking department, electricians and switchgear engineers end up doing the work, which takes up valuable time that they lose when it comes to building and wiring the switchgear. The Perforex MT has an automatic tool changer and tool magazine that can hold up to 21 tools. It takes care of all work in a single pass, without operators having to intervene, and can machine all materials generally used in switchgear, such as steel, stainless steel, aluminium, copper and plastic. Enclosures made of stainless steel can be machined better and more efficiently on the Perforex LC.

75 PER CENT FASTER State-of-the-art milling machines can cut machining time by up to 75 per cent. The savings are even more impressive when it comes to laser machining systems, which cut the processing time for steel enclosures by up to 85 per cent. When working with the Perforex MT, there are a few tips that can help companies achieve these savings:

CLAMPING ON THE PERFOREX MT: With the right accessories, panels can be clamped in place so as to reduce vibrations and bulging. The end result is that tools last longer.

TIP 1: CLAMP COMPONENTS TO MINIMISE VIBRATION Clamping has a major influence on the service life of milling tools. Wear occurs at the point at which the cutting edge of a milling tool comes into contact with the material it is machining. The more defined this contact point is, the more efficiently material can be removed and the less wear there is on the tool. The experts at Rittal Automation Systems recommend ensuring that components are securely clamped in place, which reduces relative movement between the milling tool and the component. Use as many clamping elements as possible, such as manual clamps and pneumatic clamping elements. Line clamping elements with cushioning to prevent bulging in the components. Brace the component at close intervals using spacer bolts or, better still, brush strips. This ensures the cutting edge can work more effectively.

Rittal & Eplan: Your partners for sustainable panel building and switchgear manufacturing.

Rittal & Eplan: FUTURE FORUM Join Rittal & Eplan 6th October 2021 for a virtual event where we’ll discuss the future of automation and the latest digital trends

future-fo rum.co.u k

ENGINEERING PDATE September 2021

Use a clamping frame when working on small enclosures. This enables you to machine several boxes at the same time. These measures help to reduce the movement of the components and extend the service life of tools.

TIP 2: ADJUST FEED FLEXIBLY How can you extend the service life of milling tools? In general, the faster the feed speed, the shorter the service life, and the lower the feed speed, the longer the service life. Feed should therefore be adjusted to requirements. Tools should also be properly cooled and cooling lubrication systems regularly checked, because the strength of machining tools declines as temperatures rise. Shortly before a milling tool breaks, the metal will melt, usually at a localised point – the cutting edge disappears and the tool breaks against the cut edge of the component. Speed and feed should also be coordinated. The machine manufacturer will provide initial guide values, but it is a good idea to document feed and speed values during operation and optimise them for your own product mix.

TIP 3: SELECT THE RIGHT TOOLS Besides feed, speed and cooling, the milling tool itself also determines its own useful life to a large extent. For instance, the more cutting edges a milling tool has, the more edges engage during one revolution, the more material is removed in one revolution and the less stress is placed on each cutting edge. This extends the service life of the milling tool. By contrast, higher feed speeds lead to more tool change intervals. If higher speeds are necessary or longer tool change intervals are required, carbide milling tools with four edges can be used. However, not all carbide milling tools can cope with the vibrations on the components. This is another area where users should follow the recommendations of specialists from Rittal Automation Systems, who have the right product for every application scenario.

For more information go to www.rittal.co.uk or www.friedhelm-loh-group.com, or on twitter @Rittal Ltd UK on linked in

www.rittal.co.uk - www.eplan.co.uk

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September 2021 ENGINEERING UPDATE

READY FOR BUSINESS: PPMA SHOW 2021 Countdown begins to first UK live event for the processing and packaging industry.

In a few weeks’ time, PPMA Show 2021 will return to the NEC Exhibition Centre in Birmingham, from September 28th- 30th. As the first major PPMA live event since September 2019, following the postponement of all live events in 2020 and early 2021 due to the COVID pandemic, exhibitors and visitors are getting ready to do face-to-face business. With a focus on supporting the processing and packaging communities with sustained business recovery following the challenges of the last year, PPMA Show 2021 will bring together over 250 exhibiting companies, offering businesses a long-overdue opportunity to see emerging technologies and explore the latest trends in the industry. Recent research conducted among PPMA’ audiences reveals a strong appetite for the live event, with 70% of respondents seeing trade shows as an essential platform for reviewing and making future product purchases. Leading exhibitors at the show include: Winkworth, Ulma, AVE, Evolution Bottling and Packaging, Mettler-Toledo, Ilpra, Holmach, Stellar-Technik, Endoline and Brillopak. Richard Little, Show Director of PPMA Show 2021 comments: “Although online platforms help people to gather information about products, our research shows that visitors want to move on from virtual product launches and events to get closer to the technology- hands-on and to speak face-to-face with product and application experts. The appetite for investment is definitely there, as well as the enthusiasm to resume business as usual. We’re setting out to support our community’s business recovery.” Renowned by the industry as a platform for launching new products, the 2021

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show will be no exception, with multiple exhibitors announcing plans ahead of the show: • AVE UK (Stand B40) will showcase two innovative solutions for the food and beverage sector with the launch of the OMNIA B cross flow filtration system for brewers and a mozzarella ball processing line for processing and dairy visitors. The OMNIA B system delivers beer clarification, product recovery and microbiological stability. With the mozzarella ball processing line due for delivery to London-based mozzarella manufacturers, Fratelli Amodio, this will be the only opportunity to see the line. • Fortress Technology (Europe) Ltd (Stand BO1) will debut its new zerocontaminant pandemic-recovery Raptor Series including X-Ray first. • Carlo Gavazzi (Stand G80), a leading manufacturer in industrial automation and energy management will be on hand to discuss the latest technological innovations and advantages in IO- Link Sensors, solid state relays, motor soft starters and energy management.

• Responding to manufacturers’ end-of-line labour challenges including staff shortages, social distancing measures and selfisolation, OMRON UK (Stand B34) will show the RB1200 cobot palletiser. Developed in partnership with OMRON’s automation partner Reeco, the systems offer a 50% cost saving, rapid delivery within weeks, as well as modular plug-and-play system architecture. The RB1200 has a maximum payload of 10kg and a cycle time of 12 picks per minute. It requires no system integration and has a 60% smaller footprint than conventional robot palletisers. • Digital coding innovator Clearmark (Stand D72) is celebrating its 20th anniversary with the launch of the ICE Vector Pallet Labelling System. The system includes unique engineering differentiators such as a climate-controlled cabin to ensure consistent print quality, a robust long-reach cartesian-style arm, guaranteeing GS1 specification label placement in all pallet configurations and a dual operator interface and intelligent I/O system.

ENGINEERING PDATE September 2021

• Dustcontrol UK (Stand E30) will be showcasing its upgraded GFF (Good For Food) range of food and pharma grade dust extraction equipment. The range is designed to offer efficient dust extraction and cleaning of food contact areas while opening up new recycling possibilities. • Olympus Technologies (Stand A94) is launching an upgraded Universal Robot Palletising System. • Launched in 2020, Ehcolo (Stand F102) is giving visitors the opportunity to see its stretch hooder. • Rollon (Stand J36) has expanded its seventh axis range with an offering aimed at the light and collaborative robotics market, as well as an enhancement of the range intended for larger robots. The new range of axes - 3 single-axis and 2 doubleaxis – introduces the belt drive with zero-backlash pulleys, simplified handling and overall efficiencies by positioning the motor on board the machine, reducing the overall weight and avoiding the need to manage cable handling. • Yamato Scale Dataweigh (Stand B14), a global manufacturer of product inspection equipment is excited to unveil its new Epsilon range of Multihead weigher, dubbed the new ‘Stick’ machine, as well as its x-ray inspection machine, the TSDN-3. On show will also be a new range of hygienic checkweighers. • Secondary packaging company, TrakRap (Stand B26) believes it has solved one of the biggest barriers to fully recyclable secondary packaging for the food and drink sector with the launch of the Trakcoder, a low carbon alternative to ITF labels.

• Brillopak (Stand H26) will showcase its new UniPAKer robotic crate packing platform, its most compact and energy-efficient system to date. • Showcasing its entry level, ‘Plug & Play’ robotic palletising system, Endoline Robotics (Stand D 50) is set to demonstrate the benefits of automation, and the quick return on investment which can be achieved. • Lifting equipment specialist Lift Safe (Stand F74) is showcasing one of its new ranges of mobile access platforms. The self-propelled MA50 is designed for use by one person, providing a maximum working height of five metres • UK barcode labelling automation manufacturer, Cobalt Systems (Stand B64) will showcase its industrial automation solutions. • Engilico™ (Stand H52), a pioneer in non-destructive in-line seal inspection for flexible packaging, presents a new tray inspection solution. The inspection solution uses hyperspectral imaging (HSI) technology to detect contamination in the seal of trays with a much higher contrast than standard vision cameras. • Travtec (Stand J40) is introducing new additions to their conveyor accessories range • Piab (Stand G12) are thrilled to present a wide selection of new products developed to complement their existing range of solutions.

• Ishida Europe Ltd (Stand D40) has introduced a holistic complete product offering across its entire X-ray portfolio that provides customers with peace of mind and delivers a guaranteed Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) of less than 3% per annum over a 5-year period. COVID precautions Participants can rely on all the necessary health and safety precautions relating to COVID and, to reassure visitors with regards to cleanliness and safety, the NEC has introduced advanced cleaning measures and hand sanitising stations are located at all entrances of the NEC and at numerous locations around the venue. Physical touchpoints will be reduced throughout the show and there is also ample outdoor space at the NEC for visitors wanting to get some fresh air and to take a break from the exhibition floor during their visit. There will, of course, be differences in the way the 2021 event runs compared to previous years. For example, on-site catering provisions have been modified and we’re also advising visitors travelling to the show to limit what they bring. Preregistration will be compulsory for all visitors this year register and visitors should follow the latest local guidance at the time of the show with regards to face masks, isolating and symptoms to ensure the safety of themselves and others in attendance.

Registration for the PPMA Show 2021 is now open.

To register for your FREE visitor badge, visit the PPMA Show website at: https://www.ppmashow.co.uk/ |71

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September 2021 ENGINEERING UPDATE

egistration for the Engineering Design Show - EDS 2021 - is now open, heralding a return to live business events and reinforcing the value of meeting face to face for the UK’s engineering sector. The Engineering Design Show is the UK’s only event entirely dedicated to engineering, electronics and embedded design. It is also the only design engineering event powered by Eureka, New Electronics and, new for 2021 The Engineer publications. The show provides the ideal environment for design engineers to benefit from direct access to the latest products, services and innovations available to the sector. The show will be championing engineering heroes and there will be a dedicated area for this, highlighting the work done on the ventilator challenge. Taking place at Coventry Building Society Arena, Coventry on 19 - 20 October, EDS headline sponsors are Wurth Elektronik and Solid State Supplies. Confirmed exhibitors include Elmo Motion Control, Heidenhan, Robafoam, and Nanuk. A two-day conference will run in parallel to the exhibition. The allnew ‘The Engineer Keynote Stage’ will include panel discussions and keynote addresses from Paul Stein, Chief Technology Officer, RollsRoyce Plc and Dick Elsy, Ventilator Challenge CEO. Other speakers include McLaren Automotive, Cranfield University, HP, IBM, and Siemens.

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Registration now open for the Engineering Design Show (EDS): the leading event for UK design engineers Launches new ‘Springboard’ for Entrepreneurs In addition, for the first time, The Engineering Design Show is launching The Springboard, which aims to encourage engineering start-ups and entrepreneurs. Supported by British luxury automotive supercar maker McLaren Automotive, The Springboard will give early-stage companies a platform to share their innovations with thousands of engineering professionals with the power to influence and guide them to future success. Under this new initiative, up to eight businesses will be given a free stand in the Springboard area and entered into the inaugural Springboard Awards. To qualify, businesses must be under three years old with a product or service that relates to engineering.

The Springboard Awards will take place at The Engineering Design Show when each exhibitor will be asked to present their innovation on stage to a panel of expert judges, including McLaren Automotive Chief Executive Officer Mike Flewitt. The winner will receive a free stand on the main floor at The Engineering Design Show the following year, as well as PR and marketing support, together worth £10,000. The event will be run in accordance with Government guidance on COVID-19, ensuring a safe and pleasant environment. The website for the show including visitor registration is at www.engineeringdesignshows.co.uk Deadline to enter the Springboard Awards is 31 August 2021

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN FOR THE UK’S LARGEST ENGINEERING DESIGN EVENT @EngDesignShow

19 - 20 October 2021 Coventry Building Society Arena

THE ONLY EVENT POWERED BY NE W FOR 20 21

Enjoy 2 days of cuttingedge content brought to you exclusively by the market leading publications: Eureka, New Electronics and new for 2021, The Engineer. Speakers include, Paul Stein, CTO, Rolls-Royce and Dick Elsy, CEO, Ventilator Challenge!

WHY VISIT?

Meet over 200 world-class supply chain partners

Reconnect in person with industry peers and build new contacts

Discover the industry startup superstars at the all new Springboard awards

Celebrate our engineering heroes in the

dedicated exhibition zone

Over 50,000 design engineers choose us to gain the latest knowledge. Don’t miss out, join our engineering community! I N T E R N AT I O N A L

17th Annual

HEADLINE SPONSORS

WWW.ENGINEERINGDESIGNSHOWS.CO.UK #EngDesignShow

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September 2021 ENGINEERING UPDATE

HARTING offer custom-made connector and cabling solutions HARTING have been designing and manufacturing industrial connectors for the last 75 years, with a focus on products which are easy to handle, durable and adaptable. However, as markets and industries evolve, customers are increasingly seeking bespoke, custom-made solutions. All customised products are built at our manufacturing facility in Northampton and are based on market-leading connectors from the extensive HARTING range. Using these standard products, we design cable assemblies for the transmission of data, signals and power. Our expertise has seen us create solutions for a wide range of markets, including transportation, mechanical and plant engineering, automation technology, data centres and energy distribution. Other specialisms include box builds and inter-car jumpers for the rail market. We can also support you with thorough in-house testing of cabling and wiring. No matter the degree of complexity, we have the capacity to produce bespoke solutions and projectspecific assemblies to suit your needs, including installing components, efficiently routing cable harnesses and fabrication. To further assist you, our design team can create a 3D CAD visualisation of your build beforehand to ensure absolute accuracy before manufacturing begins. HARTING also have forty years’ experience of building cable assemblies for the UK market and can offer you standard or custom cable lengths and a range of plastic or metal housings. We offer a wide range of all-purpose M12 circular connectors, available with a traditional screw connection or the new, fast PushPull locking mechanism. Other options include RJ45, the perfect solution for transmitting high data rates in harsh industrial environments.

We also offer the innovative ix Industrial®, which is a perfect solution for the next generation of miniaturised products as the PCB jack is 70% smaller than the RJ45 socket. In addition, the ix combines both data transmission and power supply into a single interface. For the rail industry, our inter-car jumpers are designed to run connections between train carriages, including roof or underfloor systems, ensuring a reliable supply of data, signals and power along the train. The Han-Modular® series allows you to create a flexible and versatile solution by combining individual inserts for different transmission media into standard-sized industrial connector housings. The HARTING manufacturing facility holds ISO 9001 certification for Quality Management, the ISO 14001 Environmental Standard and UL certification for Wiring Harnesses ZPFW2 / ZPFW8.

If you’d like to know more about HARTING UK’s manufacturing capabilities and customised solutions, please visit hartings customized solutions or email salesuk@harting.com

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Now I can design individual interfaces and order them directly. Customisation included. The new HARTING Han® Configurator for industrial connectors.

The new HARTING Han® Configurator makes your digital twin come alive ■ Perfect fit solutions without compromise due to new customisation functions ■ Save time by downloading 3D data of the complete interface, available immediately after configuration ■ Short delivery times due to fully automated manufacturing of your connector configuration

One Range. No Limits:

www.HARTING.com/UK/en-gb/topics/design-industrial-connector

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September 2021 ENGINEERING UPDATE

Compact dot peen marker with integrated control unit - Marking head for an easy integration in production lines with low space requirement

he innovative and compact dot peen marking head MV5 U65/30 INTEGRAL is equipped with an internal control unit. The previously required wiring works between marking head and control unit and the installation in the control cabinet is not required anymore. No space for an external control unit needs to be provided. Recently, the product range of our INTEGRAL marking systems has been extended by two more models. The new marking system MV5 U85/45 INTEGRAL is equipped with a marking field of 85 x 45 mm (optionally 120 x 45 mm) and extends the strengths of the already existing model MV5 U65/30 INTEGRAL. Proven features include the compact, space-saving design due to the integrated control system and the completely electric drive concept. Furthermore, a simple and quick integration into a production or testing facility is possible. As with its little brother, the marking pin of the MV5 U85/45 INTEGRAL can be replaced easily, quickly and cost-effectively. Due to its light weight it can also be used on a robot arm or a Z-axis. Thanks to the optional protective cover made of Kevlar (for marking field 85 x 45 mm), use in an unclean environment is also no problem. The marking system is suitable to mark several materials up to a hardness of 63 HRC. The marking force of the solenoid which was especially developed for marking purposes can be adjusted individually to the material and the needed marking depth. With this, a precise marking of nearly all materials is guaranteed. Compared to the MV5 U65/30 INTEGRAL marking system, the new MV5 U85/45 INTEGRAL offers a more stable guidance system, an integrated laser pointer for simulation and support during set-up, and optionally a display for direct visualisation of programming. The mentioned features, combined with the low acquisition and operating costs as well as the low spare parts stock, result in an attractive price-performance ratio and predestine the MV5 U85/45 INTEGRAL for the application areas, e.g. test facilities, environments without existing compressed air supply, applications with Data Matrix Codes, date / time stamping, simple part markings, robotic applications.

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Weidmiiller More productivity in your workplace with our THM MultiMark printer Let’s Connect

MultiMark: the smart all-in-one solution In Weidmüller, you have a trusted and reliable partner with years of experience in cable preparation, processing and systemised marking. Our THM thermal transfer printer integrates cutting and perforation tasks into the printing process; it can divide endless materials into arbitrary lengths. The result is a noticeably simpler production of custom cuts with a respective inscription assignment. Using the Mulitmark printer, you reduce the potential sources of error with complete data consistency. You will streamline timeconsuming work processes and increase your productivity.

£995 RRP*

Order 1 THM MultiMark Printer (2599430000) for £995 and you will receive £1400 worth of list price marking materials FREE!

Click here to order your THM MultiMark printer! Weidmüller UK Klippon House, Centurion Court Office Park Meridian Business Park, Leicester, LE19 1TP Tel: +44 1162 823470 Fax:+44 1162 893582 www.weidmuller.co.uk

* This action is limited to 1 printer per customer and valid until 30th September 2021 Terms and Conditions apply

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September 2021 ENGINEERING UPDATE

Titan Explains the Factors that Determine Flow Meter Performance Titan Enterprises has published a new technical article focusing on flow meter performance. The article discusses the factors involved in determining the overall performance of pulse output turbine flow meters and how each factor influences the accuracy of flow measurement. Flowmeters have become essential measuring devices used in a vast array of different industries. From commercial applications measuring the fuel feeding industrial boilers, for flow monitoring of lubricant supply lines for wind turbines, to dosing chemicals for agricultural sprays. Domestically, flow meters are installed to manage the dispensing of beer or coffee and built into washing machines and dishwashers to meter efficient water usage. Turbine flow meters are invaluable measurement tools, and their repeatability and linearity are the key elements that determine

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the flowmeter’s performance and overall accuracy. Both the mechanical properties of the flow meter and the physical properties of the fluid combine to influence the general performance of the flow measurement device. Te r m s s y n o n y m o u s w i t h calibrating flow meters – the K-Factor, calibration uncertainty, repeatability, accuracy and linearity – are explained. The technical article discusses the relationship between all these flow factors and how they each influence the overall performance of a flow meter.

Whereas turbine flow meters, such as Titan’s Beverage flow meter and 800 series, offer the high level of repeatability and reliability required for accurate batch delivery systems, Titan’s Atrato® and Metraflow® ultrasonic flow sensors and the larger oval gear flow meters, are highly accurate over wider flow ranges, especially with viscous liquids such as oils. Neil Hannay, Senior R&D Engineer with Titan Enterprises, suggests: “When customers are deciding on appropriate flow meters to suit their application, they need to be aware of the difference between FSD linearity and ‘of reading’ linearity accuracy, as often suppliers do not specify which accuracy is being quoted for.” The technical article from Titan illustrates how the linearity reading has a significant impact on the performance of the flowmeter, particularly at the low end of its flow range. To read the technical article in full

please click here For further information on flow measurement devices to suit specific applications, please contact Titan Enterprises on +44 (0)1935 812790 or sales@flowmeters.co.uk.

ENGINEERING PDATE September 2021

Articulated Torsion Pipework In Hoses Rotating Cylinders

Swivel Joints Swivel joints allow pipework to

Rotary Torque Transducers • 10mNm up to 13,000Nm • Analog & Digital Outputs • ±0.1% Accuracy

• Non-contact digital strain gauge torque measurement

Flexibility

Fluid Carrying

TORQ SENSE

pressure 1/4” to 40” and beyond. Vacuum to over 20,000psi. Stock and bespoke production. Unique bearing/seal design for longer life. ISO 9001 CE marked where applicable.

Tel:

Bingswood Trading Estate Whaley Bridge | High Peak | SK23 7LY | UK

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E-mail:

SENSOR TECHNOLOGY

Tel: +44 (0)1869 238400 Web: www.sensors.co.uk/eu0921

Petrochemical Products

Fluid transfer products for upstream, downstream and refining • Hoses and hose assemblies • Hose & pipe fittings • No-spill couplings • Safety breakaway fittings • Blow-Out prevention couplings • Global inventory and locations • Sales and technical support • In-house engineering & design • Pressure Equipment Directive • ISO 9001 accredited

• Hydraulic Fracturing: Low Pressure Systems • Loading arms • Liquid level sensing • Zero emission valves

+44 (0)1772 323529 | dixoneurope.co.uk

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September 2021 ENGINEERING UPDATE

Mitigating the Effects of Pulsating Flow in Flow Measurement Titan Enterprises has published a new technical article that discusses how variation in flow velocity can impact flow measurement accuracy and how to mitigate any undesirable effects.

t is well known that flowmeters are sensitive to effects such as pulsating flow which can generate errors in flow measurement. Pulsating flows are common in systems using diaphragm, peristaltic or piston pumps for example. In a pulsating flow system, the velocity profile of the flow undergoes a dramatic change during each cycle of pulsation compared to even flow conditions.

Using advanced electronics, Titan's Atrato® and Metraflow® ranges of ultrasonic flowmeters are able to resolve the ultrasonic signals to about 50 picoseconds. With downstream signal processing, Titan’s ultrasonic flowmeters are able to accurately measure pulsating fluid flow that is less than 10Hz. To accurately measure pulsating flows above this frequency requires inline pulse dampening.

According to theory, to accurately measure flow in a pulsating flow scenario the sampling rate of an electronic flow meter needs to be at least double the frequency rate of the pulsations themselves. If the pulsation rate is not taken into account, aliasing of the flow signal will be seen, resulting in erroneous measurement from the flowmeter.

To read the technical article in full please click here.

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For further information on the Atrato and Metraflow range of ultrasonic flowmeters please click here or contact Titan Enterprises on +44 (0)1935 812790 or sales@flowmeters.co.uk.

Reduce unscheduled shut downs, reduce maintenance costs and improve plant safety with our Valvescan Diagnostic Monitoring System. Our revolutionary system is an end-to-end solution that captures data from every valve operation, analyses it and provides targeted alerts on the valve health without any requirement for involvement from plant personnel or any potential impact on the asset real-time control integrity. It is a true IIoT solution for automated valves. This system is not only a pioneering development in valve monitoring, it is also; ● Cost effective and easy to install ● Works with all existing valve systems ● Enables data retrieval and transmission to the cloud ● Provides a ‘real time health’ check on the valve and alerts when performance drop off is detected

08700 340 002 www.imtex-controls.com

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September 2021 ENGINEERING UPDATE

Industry Expert Casella Launches Most Technologically Advanced High Flow Pump in the Air Sampling Market Asbestos-related diseases take the lives of 20 tradespeople every week1. Despite being banned in the UK, asbestos can still be found in older homes and industrial properties built between the 1950s and 70s, posing a threat to anyone who disturbs the dangerous material.

lobal occupational hygiene and workplace hazard monitoring expert Casella has launched the Vortex3, the most innovative high flow pump on the market, designed to simplify asbestos and air sampling.

simplifying the reporting process. This remote access facility makes monitoring and data collection easier and faster, while providing additional traceability. “Casella has a long history of manufacturing air sampling pumps and the Vortex3 completes the family,” says Tim Turney, Casella Global Marketing Manager. “The Vortex3 brings genuine innovation in terms of new technology and ease of use, designed to save time for those working on-site with air sampling pumps.”

Continuing to fulfil its mission to improve health in the workplace and community with life-changing monitoring technology, the high flow pump offers a flow accuracy better than +/-5%, ensuring consultants, contractors and specialists have confidence in results. Using Casella’s patent-pending, interlocking design, the Vortex3 has an ergonomically comfortable handle and weighs just 2.17kg, allowing users to carry multiple units in one hand with ease. The Vortex3 has an IP65 rating, providing protection from dust and water ingress. Casella’s ergonomic design has ensured the high flow pump’s smooth body finish is free from small crevices that could hold fine airborne asbestos fibres, allowing for safer decontamination and cleaning. Built to impeccable standards, the Vortex3’s two and a half hour at 12L/min with a typical filter ensures continuous performance. Available in two versions, the Vortex3 Pro model is compatible with Casella’s innovative Airwave App and Bluetooth connectivity, enabling users to remotely start, pause or stop a measurement run, monitor battery life and memory capacity and check measurement progress direct from a mobile device. Data can be emailed alongside photos and site details, adding context to the sampling and further

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1) https://www.hse.gov.uk/asbestos/tradesperson.htm#:~:text=Asbestos%20kills%20around%2020%20tradesman,may%20need%20 to%20be%20notified.

Tel: 01296 611660 Email: rk@pmgb.co.uk www.phoenix-mecano.co.uk 26 Faraday Road, Aylesbury Buckinghamshire HP19 8RU

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