15 minute read

INDUSTRY UPDATE

Next Article
WASTE MANAGEMENT

WASTE MANAGEMENT

INDUSTRY UPDATE HERO PLASTICS MAKE HEADWAY DURING PANDEMIC

Engineering plastics, one of the major materials working to protect medical and frontline workers during the COVID-19 pandemic, has made headway as an alternative to metals in hygiene and safetyconscious industrial markets.

Advertisement

Machinery, componentry, safety, automation and Industry 4.0 and process applications are among the beneficiaries of engineering plastics’ virtues.

Most PPE equipment – masks, goggles, gloves, gowns and coveralls – are made of non-woven polymer polypropylene. Other translucent shields between customers and retail staff, for example, are made from polycarbonates such as Wearguard, which are not only very touch but also easy to wash and chemical resistant.

“It is in fact quite possible to introduce anti-viral and anti-bacterial qualities into the formulation used to manufacture different engineering thermoplastics families,” says Cut To Size Plastics managing director Laurie Green.

“While other plastics groups are suitable in their natural or food grade state to substitute hygienically and cost efficiently for metals used in production process and Industry 4.0 higher speed automation.”

Custom manufactured plastics, sometimes with added hygienic, mechanical and lubrication qualities, can include Wearlon PTFE (polytetrafluorethylene) and Wearex UHMWPE (ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene).

Standard product groups, including Wearlon Nylon, Wearace Acetal and Wearthane polyeurethane can not only be modified, but are often suitable in their natural state as light but tough highperformance alternatives to metals in applications demanding excellent impact resistance, high mechanical strength, high physical protective qualities, strong washdown and chemical performance, and outstanding sliding and machinability qualities.

“In addition to being used as machinery components - shields, rollers, bearings, guards, sprockets, guides and sheaves – some of these versatile materials can be used to fabricate entire large machinery components, such as plummer blocks,” Green says.

Cut To Size Plastics’ engineering materials comply with some of the world’s toughest food contact and process standards. The company is also registered on the NSW Government’s COVID-19 Emergency Suppliers portal as a company that can supply raw material for manufacturing processes and products, as well as adapting its processes to manufacture components for urgently needed medical equipment such as ventilators.

Green, who has more than 40 years’ experience in specifying and supplying engineering plastics, says the COVID-19 pandemic will give manufacturers a renewed focus on the hygiene and washdown qualities of materials to be selected for use in processes and machinery, particularly those involved in the preparation and export of food, beverage, medical and agricultural products.

“We’re not saying for a moment that engineering plastics are better in every instance than metal alternatives, because you have to consider each application on its particular engineering merits,” he says.

“But we do say that for an expanding variety of applications, engineering plastics may be ideal and cost-efficient for applications for which they have not previously been considered – until now.”

Green says that the pandemic has made the world much more conscious of hygiene, and that could be the catalyst for Australian manufacturing to shift its focus from metals to plastics.

“European and other purity-focused manufacturers have been much more open to change, and they are the ones who have been leaders in purity and hygiene standards,” he says.

“In a very hygiene-conscious, postCOVID world, our local attitudes may begin to change.”

To cope with expanding demand for engineering plastics componentry, Cut To Size Plastics recently expanded its precision engineering capabilities with the introduction of a Morbidelli Author M100F heavy duty CNC router and machining centre. The performance and flexibility offered by the new machine provides a 60 per cent time saving in machining cycles compared with older technology.

Cut To Size Plastics 1800 CUT2SIZE www.cuttosize.com.au

RELIABLE INNOVATIVE

RUN HOT AND COLD WITH THERMAL MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS

Mouser Electronics Inc. is now stocking UltraTEC UTX thermoelectric coolers (TECs) from Laird Thermal Systems and the LTM4663 ultra-thin μModule TEC regulator from Analog Devices Inc.

Together, these advanced TEC devices form the core of a temperature feedback control loop design and provide a reliable solution for use in industrial laser applications, optical modules and optical networking systems as well as medical diagnostics, laser projectors and LiDAR systems.

ADI’s LTM4663 integrates a TEC controller, switching regulator, inductor, linear power stage and supports components in a compact 3.5mm x 4mm x 1.3mm LGA25 package.

The device’s ultra-thin form factor allows it to be attached to the back side of a PCB in optical modules, even in tight spaces.

The LTM4663 TEC regulator operates over an input voltage range of 2.7V to 5.5V and features two selfcorrecting, auto-zeroing amplifiers to serve as a temperature feedback control loop and thermistor input amplifier.

The regulator supports versatile use cases, allowing developers to independently program maximum cooling and heating currents as well as the maximum TEC voltage.

The Laird Thermal Systems UltraTEC UTX TECs are assembled using next

The highly intelligent web-enabled design of the new LQ800 Multi Channel Controller from Electro-Chemical Devices (ECD) combines advanced IoT liquid analytical measurement of 50-plus parameters and precision process control of flow/level for a wide range of waterbased industrial applications.

The LQ800 is designed to operate with up to eight digital analytical and flow/level process sensors. Available analytical measurements include pH, ORP, conductivity, resistivity, dissolved oxygen, selective ion, turbidity, flow, level and many others in varying configurations for a given application.

gen thermoelectric material that deliver key improvements in efficiency and temperature differential and boost cooling capacity by up to 10 per cent. The TECs offer high cooling capacity, making them an ideal choice for both laser cooling and laser projection.

When paired up, the LTM4663 and the UTX TECs provide an efficient thermal management solution for laser and optical applications.

The LTM4663 regulator allows designers to manage the temperature feedback control loop while the UTX TECs deliver the cooling function and heat pump necessary for reliable temperature control – and they’re both available now from Mouser Electronics, the New Product Introduction leader empowering innovation.

Mouser Electronics www.mouser.com

Say goodbye to mental math guesswork, fiddling with digital calculator apps on mobile phones or even cumbersome pen on paper calculations.

Built-in analytical calculations and data logging are a key feature of the sophisticated Multi Channel Controller, which includes several easily selectable mathematical functions: automatic measurement conversions for dissociation, cross-sensitivity and concentration levels.

The LQ800 can digitally communicate with any of ECD’s S80 Intelligent Sensors. Two-way communication allows each plug-n-play S80 Sensor to configure itself automatically to the LQ800’s

IDM GEARED UP FOR ESSENTIAL ONSHORE MANUFACTURING

COVID-19 has proven to be a very dark cloud for 2020, but not one without a silver lining. For every unforeseen challenge faced by the Australian manufacturing industry, there’s been an opportunity.

As such, Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews has taken steps to reinforce local manufacturing in Australia.

Similarly, Australian owned and managed IDM Instruments, a leading manufacturer of testing and measurement instruments, has focused on the local manufacture of its Gelbo Flex Tester.

“It’s time for Australians to support local businesses and manufacturers,” says Tommy Halmos, managing director of IDM Instruments.

“As citizens paly their part, it’s important for manufacturers to continuously research and innovate as means to succeed in the uncertain times.”

The Gelbo Flex Tester is such an innovation, used to test the quality of nonwoven material. As millions of masks and other personal protective equipment items are manufactured and sold during the COVID-19 menus and display screens for the desired measurement parameter, which eliminates complicated technician set-up routines.

A large, easily viewed colour 120x90mm touchscreen display makes ease-of-use a breeze. The display and interface can be web-enabled with remote monitoring and activation with smart phones, tablets, personal handheld devices and computers with access via the web.

The straightforward menu navigation structure was designed with busy technicians in mind.

The LQ800 Multi Channel Controller is available now from AMS pandemic, testing of non-woven materials is crucial.

This is important because most nonwoven materials tend to lint or shed. Thus, IDM’s Glebo Flex Tester measures the amount of lint shed and how quickly it sheds as the non-woven material is subjected to repetitive twisting in the flexing chamber, thereby ensuring the quality of the material.

As this process continues, the air inside the testing chamber is withdrawn to the particle counter, which counts and sorts the lint particles in real time. This allows the Gelbo Flex Tester to provide statistical analysis for real-time reporting.

IDM Instruments’ Gelbo Flex Tester has gained immense popularity in the nonwoven and textile industry worldwide. As manufacturing of face masks and protective gowns and caps increases, IDM Instruments is ready to take the lead and efficiently manufacture the Gelbo.

IDM Instruments 03 9708 6885

ECD MULTI CHANNEL CONTROLLER THE TOTAL PACKAGE

www.idminstruments.com.au

Instrumentation & Calibration, either as a 24 VDC or a 100/240 VAC powered unit. Suitable for harsh, rugged environments, it features a NEMA 4X/IP65 rating and can be used in ambient temperatures from -10 degrees C to 55 degrees.

AMS Instrumentation & Calibration 03 9017 8225 www.ams-ic.com.au

Reduce Downtime in Your DC with More Reliable Industrial Ethernet

Smart warehouses are connecting more data into the network than ever before using Industrial Ethernet. Don’t let non-industrial grade Ethernet cable put your warehouse communication in jeopardy. Safeguard against future network failures with Turck. Our connectivity solutions are more rugged – standing up to the toughest industrial use. From optimizing enterprise level data communication to ensuring real-time communication at a robotic pick station, our connectivity experts design reliability and toughness into every solution we make.

SENSORS | CONNECTIVITY | FIELDBUS TECHNOLOGY www.turck.com.au 1300 132 566

Basic Specification

CHARGING AND DIAGNOSIS EASIER

WITH DURST PRODUCTS DURST SOLAR CASE Industrial high power / energy portable 12V power o o o Water / Dust proof / shock proof case 500Wh / 42Ah LiFeP04 Battery Maximum power point tracking (MPPT) Solar controller supply equipped with onboard solar panel and o Removable 1 2W 18V Internal Durst Industries (Aust) Pty Ltd are the leading Australian manufacturer of Automotive Electrical Charging and then provides a service record that will remain with the vehicle until it is sold. charging system for extended periods of reliable off grid operation Meanwhile, the Durst load bank provides a constant load across batteries for controlled discharge. Large battery Insert Shows Quick Acting Alternator photovoltaic Cell o Battery capacity meter with low voltage alarm o 3 channel switched / fused channels

Diagnostic equipment. Both dealer and consumer benefit storage systems require cycle testing Brackets o 6 x USB ports As the Australian automotive industry knowing the history of the vehicle from the time it rolls off the production line to to ensure the batteries perform within specifications. o 3 x 12V DIN socket (cigarette lighter) o 3 x 12V 2pin socket o 1 x 12V 50A Anderson output modernizes so does the range of Durst the time it rolls into the garage, reducing o 1 x External Solar blanket socket (4 Pin) products. Used for transport, mining, education, logistics and even by the warranty claims and improving customer satisfaction. The Durst Load Banks are fan cooled and available in a variety of capacities, in o 1 x Charge socket (3 pin for use with dedicated Durst Lithium charger o Internal storage compartment military. Durst is in touch with the trend 24, 48 and 72 volt with a load capacity of up to 240 amps. OPERATION In addition, the unit will provide alarms under, low voltage, reverse polarity, short circuit and reverse charging. The clamps are anti-spike eliminating possible damage to the ECU during an assisted start. Fuel driven engines are now transforming into hybrid and electric powered vehicles. Durst provides for all electrical systems with its range of where battery chemistries will continue to evolve along with varied applications. The solar industry and use of ‘battery walls’ is growing rapidly which reinforces Applications are equally as versatile, either with UPS (uninterrupted power The Durst Solar Case is equipped with 3 individual fused channels (self-healing) operated independently with the corresponding red switch. When the channel is active the USB The BJS-A38 is supplied with easy read instruction and a sturdy carry case which can be kept in your motor bike or motor vehicle at all times. We anticipate the Smart Personal Jump Starter has many applications, it’s very capable of providing comfort to all riders and drivers knowing that a flat battery will not stop them getting to their Durst BJC 4000 products for all terrains and types of uses. As technology advances industry and consumers’ access to electric vehicles expand and affordability is within reach the importance of correct battery maintenance and testing. port glows Blue. Each channel has a maximum output of 15A. All three channels can be used simultaneously if required. The Anderson plug is located in the storage compartment and is fused at 50A and is in an always ON state. destination. Further to its automotive functions, it provides a level of comfort if one if kept in your vehicle at all times. Being caught on the side of a road or a lonely carpark for example has its risks; this can now be minimized with the Durst ‘Smart Personal Jump Starter’. DURST Auto Electrical Test Bench - Model TB-E600DLX TB-E600DLX4 for many.

In fact users don’t need to look very far for real life examples with electric CHARGING

include:

vehicles now in operation with Local To Charge simply open the case and position so sunlight is governments and State Transits in Sydney. shining on the solar panel, the solar charger will only charge the batteries when the voltage is lower than 13V.The solar - Heavy duty Jump Starters We are now living at a time which panel can be removed and is attached to a 4-meter lead for - Smart battery chargers has moved far beyond the basic wipers, better positioning and light harvest. An 12V external solar - Industrial battery chargers lighting and engine starts as part of a vehicle’s electrical systems. Modern vehicles now have many elements mostly computer controlled; with an ever increasing list of driver / comfort aids which all operate electrically. Durst Industries provides a comprehensive range of battery load testers, battery load banks and battery supplies), GPU (ground power units) and battery systems used in the renewables industries. Durst Solar Case Durst BJT 520B blanket may be connected to the PV socket for increased charging if needed, 4 pin plug is supplied to connect to aftermarket solar blanket to make it compatible with the Durst Solar Case. To Charge using AC simply connect and power on the BATTERY SPECIFICATIO o Battery Chemistry: LiFeP04 Durstare ready to help, we’re available on the phone or email and our online store is open round the clock. Durst Industries (Aust) Pty Ltd an Australian Manufacturer… since 1918 N - Carbon Pile battery tester - Smart Personal Jump Starter - Automotive Test Benches

So that Durst makes sure to provide charging equipment to suit most battery chemistries across most appli-cations. Durst products are designed and supplied Durst lithium charger to the 3PIN charge socket. Charging is complete when the charger reads “END” on the o Nominal Capacity: 42Ah o Nominal Voltage: 12.8V o Weight: 3480g Remember Durst is first in quality and design - Test and measurement equipment for a vehicle’s reliable electrical system is paramount at all times. For example many new vehicles are For example Durst’s Super Duty Carbon Pile Battery Load Tester are able to test battery outputs up to 12kW. display. The always ON case display will read 14.6V and 100% With the voltage settling to approximately 13.4V 100% shortly after charging. Call Durst on 02 9660 1755 or view the range at manufactured in Australia to meet the needs of local and international markets. Durst can also custom build to o Internal Resistance: < 8 m ohms o Cycle Life: >2000 DoD 80% o Charge Voltage: 1 4.6V o Max Charge Current: 18A o Discharge Current: 180A www.durst.com.au - Bio-remediating parts washer - Renewal energy solutions fitted with lithium batteries and the cost of replace-ment is considerable. The soon Users can check battery loads prior to applications assured of its ef-ficiency as When the battery capacity reads 30% a low voltage alarm will sound, please charge the case as soon as possible. The alarm Durst Industries Pty Ltd an Australian Manufacturer… since 1918 Remember Durst is first in quality and design most requirements depending on the application and looks forward to finding Durst Industries (Aust) Durst BJC 4000 MS o Charge Temp: 0-50 deg.cent o Discharge Temp: -20 –60 deg.cent to be released Durst Logging Battery Charger allows the vehicle VIN and battery charging data to be logged. This power source. will turn off automatically above 30% and cannot be muted if active Call Durst on 02 9660 1755 or view the range atwww.durst.com.au new collaborative business opportunities. The range of Durst products line up Pty Ltd 02 9660 1755 www.durst.com.au Durst BJT

This article is from: