Industry Update August/September 2020 Issue 115 Victorian Edition by Industry Update

AUSTRALIA'S LARGEST CIRCULATING MANUFACTURING MAGAZINE ®

Industry Update

Manufacturing

TV Show

COMING SOON Issue 115 August/September 2020

$12.00 INC.

Page 5

MANUFACTURING MAGAZINE

SEIZE THE DAY FOR

ECONOMIC RESILIENCE It may be seen as a bit of an irony to suggest that there has never been a much better time for manufacturing business to bask in the glory of public attention, especially during a time of covid pandemic.

manufacturing sector clocked up to $100 billion contribution to the Australian GDP, employed 900,000 Australians and accounted for the 26.4% business expenditure on research and development.

But according to Chief Executive Innes Willox from peak employer AiGroup,it is a time for the sector to seize the day before it escapes us, as the crucial role of Manufacturing in a progressive economy such as Australia’s can no longer be understated.

“It’s becoming clearer by the day that manufacturing is key to our economic survival and will be key to Australia’s economic recovery.”

The manufacturing sector is now considered to have capacity to contribute to more than the current 6 percent to the country’s GDP and it’s usually missed that the sector also provides essential and crucial contribution. Albeit with some setbacks during the pandemic the sector has managed to keep afloat during this critical time out of sheer resilience and economic determination to survive. Before COVID 19 broke out the Australian TENNANT CELEBRATES 150 YEARS PAGE 14

“There’s no doubt that manufacturing now has received much greater prominence especially in government thinking in the understanding of the vital role manufacturing plays.” “There is a lot of reason to be optimistic now that we are going to have a recovery that has manufacturing at its forefront,” says Mr Willox. AiGroup’s leader explains new and emerging doors were opened for the industry when by default it had to, on account of the pandemic.

“ There were gaps in our capabilities in supply chains exposed by covid and we do need to fill those gaps. Making our economy more broadly based will make us more resilient now and with future challenges.” In addition to our metals supply chains, Mr Willox identified sectors of “chemicals and plastics, waste, defence and space; along with food, agriculture and resources related work, all of those are key in our recovery as we broaden out Australia’s economy.” “We are not just talking about building markets but more about building our own capacities within Australlia, to build that self-reliance. This philosophy will go through traditional manufacturing and right through higher end manufacturing. The principles are the same, it’s about building and strengthening supply chains and capabilities.” For the full story see page 18

NOT ALL AUTOMATION SYSTEMS ARE CREATED EQUALLY PAGE 36

KEEP YOUR FACTORY CLEAN WITH HOSPITAL GRADE DISINFECTANT PAGE 21

HYDRO INNOVATIONS PUMP SPECIAL PAGE 57

Quality Products Need Whiteley Viraclean Industry Update half page ad July20.indd 1

30/6/20 9:28 am

Quality Supporting Documents

Reflect the quality of your product and do it right the first time • User Manuals and Guides • Installation Instructions • Parts Catalogues • Service Documentation

PAC E CAS Y D STU E 49 PAG

• Technical Illustration • Project Management • and more...

TECHNICAL DOCUMENTATION & ILLUSTRATION SPECIALISTS The PAC Group’s team of technical documentation and illustration specialists create accurate technical documentation to meet your specific needs.

With over 20 years experience, PAC can give your product the professional edge! Unit 20, 3 Westside Ave, Port Melbourne, 3207 (03) 9645 6625 pac-aus@pacgroup.com

NEW

Manufacturing

EDITORIAL PLEASE NO GUILT TRIP – IT’S OUR SUPER

Business TV Show

COMING SOON

Industry Update Media is set to break another record with the launch of our very own online manufacturing TV show.

GET INVOLVED! company name and email address to TV@industryupdate.com.au to register your interest and to receive details on how to get involved with this groundbreaking project.

MANUFACTURING MAGAZINE

BY PUBLISHER SCOTT FILBY AND EDITOR ANNAMARIE REYES

Our democratic media has been busy with reporting how we are all doing our best at this challenging time. And dare we say most of us are doing such a good job of it, including yours truly. Who would have ever thought this challenge meant dealing with a pandemic which has stolen over half of this year. COVID-19 has left no stones unturned and has now caused the biggest financial disaster in Australia’s history. But like any good Aussie, during this testing time we come together and look after our family, mates and neighbours. Wash our hands, don our masks diligently and never lose hope that a Covid-19 vaccine is just around the corner to save us all. Like you, at Industry Update we are excited that the penny has finally dropped and so many Australians now realize that we need a strong and sustainable manufacturing industry. We know it’s vital for Australia to support our manufacturers to make our own local products and patronize these products. In the end

it means many of us can still keep our jobs as our businesses remain open. But a perfect story is rarely satisfying if it has no twists and turns. Recently we heard about our government allowing the early withdrawal of superannuation to help ease the pain and the impact of COVID-19. Many of us have seen media coverage of people who withdrew their super prematurely but then spent their funds to buy sporting equipment, holidays, home luxuries and one lady even went so far as to spend her money for a facelift. These cases however are in the minority. The vast majority have used these funds to survive. As such we are disturbed that some some highly paid economists and other self-appointed superannuation police have been critical of people for taking out their super early to survive. That criticism needs to stop-now!

Change Change your your bearing bearing now... now... No corrosion, No corrosion, no additional no additional lubrication, lubrication, lightlight weight. weight. This is This is whatwhat makes makes our high-performance our high-performance plastics plastics special. special. TheyThey replace replace metalmetal in plain, in plain, spherical spherical and ball and ball bearings, bearings, in slewing in slewing ring bearings ring bearings and in and linear in linear technology. technology. Less Less cost cost and higher and higher service service life for lifemoving for moving applications, applications, proven proven in theinigus the igus test lab; testget lab;aget competitive a competitive edgeedge with with our dry-tech® our dry-tech® range. range. All All motion motion plastics plastics can be canconfi be confi gured gured and calculated and calculated online. online. igus.com.au/dry-tech igus.com.au/dry-tech

Australian Australian owned owned & managed & managed |

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

13001300 65 75656475 64 |

| www.treotham.com.au www.treotham.com.au |

| info@treotham.com.au info@treotham.com.au

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020

Industry Updateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s NEW

Manufacturing Business TV Show

COMING SOON Industry Update Media is set to break another record with the launch of our very own online manufacturing TV show.

GET INVOLVED! Email your first and last name, company name and email address to TV@industryupdate.com.au to register your interest and to receive details on how to get involved with this groundbreaking project.

Number one manufacturing publication in Australia Circulation of 19,233 and readership of 76,932 Audited by

02 9439 1288 / sales@industryupdate.com.au

industryupdate.com.au

CONTENTS

INDUSTRIAL & COMMERCIAL

no obligation quote today

FROM THE PUBLISHER...............4

DOORS & GATES

24/7 Emergency Breakdowns

INDUSTRY NEWS..........................7

Preventative Maintenance New Installations Over 12 years experience

INDUSTRY POLITICS................. 14

0432 127 279 service@vulcandoors.com.au

COVID-19.................................... 20 INDUSTRY UPDATE...................22 TEST & MEASUREMENT............28 AUSTRALIAN MADE...................38

PUBLISHER SCOTT FILBY

scott@industryupdate.com.au EDITOR ANNAMARIE REYES

editor@industryupdate.com.au

SUB EDITOR MICHAEL WAYNE

subeditor@industryupdate.com.au

ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR SCOTT FILBY

scott@industryupdate.com.au

ADVERTISING SALES REP GLYN SMITH

INDUSTRY POLITICS

FLUID CONTROLS PUMPS....... 61

CREATIVE DIRECTOR MATTHEW LAM

production@industryupdate.com.au

PRODUCTION MANAGER JULIET NELSON

WASTE MANAGEMENT............53 AUTOMATION............................55

glyn@industryupdate.com.au

copy@industryupdate.com.au

VIDEO EDITOR & PRODUCER

video@industryupdate.com.au

OFFICE MANAGER NICOLE CHARLES

nicole@industryupdate.com.au

ADVERTISING COORDINATOR copy@industryupdate.com.au WEB DEVELOPER JINI M R FINANCE & ACCOUNTS MICHELLE ALCOCK

COVID-19

michelle@industryupdate.com.au CONSULTANT TRACY FILBY

tracy@industryupdate.com.au

MANUFACTURING MAGAZINE

Circulation 19,242 as at September 2018 Readership 76,968 as at September 2018 ABN 25 083 502 783

www.industryupdate.com.au

All material in this publication is copyright to the publisher and/or its contributors. No material may be reproduced in part or in whole without the written consent from the Publisher. It is a condition of purchase or acceptance of this magazine that the Publisher does not assume any responsibility or liability for any loss or damage which may result from any inaccuracy or omission on this publication or from the use of the information in this publication or from the use of the information and illustrations contained herein and the Publisher makes no warranties, express or implied, with respect to any of the material contained herein. © Copyright Industry Update Media Pty Ltd 2020

ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE LYN SLIGAR

lyn@industryupdate.com.au

SUBSCRIPTION ASSISTANT MARK ZAKOSHANSKI info@industryupdate.com.au CIRCULATION ASSISTANT circ@industryupdate.com.au PRINTER OVATO

AUSTRALIAN MADE

CABLE ASSEMBLY BOX BUILD ASSEMBLY AT AMPEC we specialise in manufacturing of custom design cable assemblies as well as turnkey electronic and electric product assemblies.

INDUSTRY UPDATE MEDIA PTY LTD Suite 403, Level 4, 116-118 Christie Street, St. Leonards NSW 2065 Phone: 02 9439 1288 Fax: 02 9439 3233 Email: sales@industryupdate.com.au

• Wire Marker • Metal Work • CNC Machining • Fibre Laser Engraving • Colour Printing • Functional Test • Logistics Service

Enclosure modification

High mix low volume and quick turnaround

Fully automatic cut/strip/crimp machines

+61 2 8741 5000

sales@ampec.com.au | www.ampec.com.au

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020

NEWS

VICTORIA’S STEADY ROAD TO RECOVERY

Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews took centre stage amid anti-lockdown protests to announce the state’s roadmap to coronavirus recovery over the weekend. The overall plan will see restrictions eased incrementally according to health reports and the number of manageable daily COVID-19 cases. Stage 4 restrictions will remain in place until 28 September but will start to ease once the average number of cases fall between 30-50 over a 14-day period. The latest cases are averaging at about 96 per fortnight. In the first of these stages beginning 13 September, public outdoor gatherings in metropolitan Melbourne will increase to two people or a household, while the daily exercise limit will double to two hours. The nightly curfew will start an hour later, and people living alone will be able to expand their “social bubble” by one person. Working from home will continue, however, and hospitality businesses will continue as take-away and delivery only. The ultimate goal of the roadmap is to reach a stage of ‘COVID-19 normal’, which will see the end of all restrictions bar social distancing, and a return to the workplace – but only after a 28-day streak no new cases in the state. “I want a Christmas that is as close to normal as possible,” Premier Andrews said. “These steps are the only way.” The roadmap has been described as a “document of despair” for industry by national employer association Ai Group. “Rather than providing the hope and optimism required, along with clear and measurable steps for businesses to open up, [the] announcement will only prolong the economic and social pain that all Victorians are feeling,” says Ai Group chief executive Innes Willox. “We participated in consultations on the plan in good faith, but it is clear the Victorian

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020

CONVERT-A-TROLLEY “Converts From Upright Position to Lowered Position While Still Loaded”

Government has chosen to ignore practical advice about how to now safely reopen workplaces and get the economy moving.” Certain sectors of the industry have taken the middle lane. “There is no playbook for responding to this crisis,” says NAB CEO Ross McEwan. “Governments need to be flexible and act on the latest health advice and their continued support of businesses and households is vital,” he says. “We need to get Victoria, and in particular Melbourne, open for business as quickly as possible, but we need to do it safely and cautiously.” The science behind the Victorian roadmap is partly based on 1,000 simulations of a virtual Melbourne using epidemiological models.

- Space Saving, Lightweight, Robust Design, Fold Up Toe Plate/Handle - Steel Frame With Durable Powdercoat Finish - Stainless Steel Version For Wash Down Applications

Researchers observed the potential effects of lifting restrictions at varying levels based on human behaviour as it currently is in Victoria. It showed that if restrictions are eased when daily cases dip below 25, there’s a 62 per cent chance of a need to have another lockdown to contain the virus, as opening up too soon could lead to a third wave of COVID-19. A slow and steady approach is seen to be the best option for Victoria, but as Willox warns, it may not be enough for some. “Significant businesses have already made decisions to divert investment away from the state and [the COVID-19 roadmap announcement] will only step up the pace of movement away from Victoria.” As Industry Update goes to print, a deal between an Australian and a UK company for two COVID-19 vaccines is in the pipeline. About 84 million free doses of the vaccine are planned to be rolled out across Australia in 2021 following clinical trials.

Contact Tente Castors & Wheels To Find Your Product Solution Phone: 1300 836 831

sales.au@tente.com

tente.com.au

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

NEWS

COMMON SENSE PREVAILS AS HIGH COURT OVERTURNS LEAVE DECISION The High Court has overturned a controversial decision by the Federal Court surrounding how personal or carer’s leave is calculated under Australia’s workplace laws. According to the Fair Work Act, employees are entitled to 10 days of paid personal/carer’s leave. For full-time employees working 38 hours a week, that’s 76 hours of leave per year. In the case of Mondelez v AMWU, the Federal Court interpreted that entitlement as 10 days at the number of hours an employee would normally work within a 24-hour period – the “working day” construction. This interpretation led to the Federal Court’s finding that two Cadbury chocolate factory workers were entitled to 120 hours of personal leave in a year.

Mondelez appealed the Federal Court’s decision, and 12 months later, the High Court has now dismissed that interpretation and reverted to the common understanding of entitlement calculations. AMMA chief executive Steve Knott says the decision isn’t just a win for Mondelez, but for employers across Australia. “The High Court has confirmed [the Federal Court’s] interpretation was wrong,” he says. “It states the ‘working day’ construction ‘would give rise to absurd results and inequitable outcomes’ – employers could not have said it better themselves.” The concern with the Federal Court’s ‘working day’ interpretation was

that it would lead to disparity between employees on varying shifts and rosters, particularly in manufacturing plants or mines. “It might, for example, have seen some employees receive 120 hours of leave entitlement and others receive 76 hours, despite working the same number of hours across a two-week period,” Knott says. “This issue has only come about due to the poor drafting of the Fair Work Act. At the time everyone knew ’10 days’ meant ordinary hours spread across two working weeks, but the legislation failed to properly clarify this.” Knott says the High Court’s decision would be much welcomed by employers in both the resources industry and across the broader economy, which has “dodged a significant bullet” at the right time.

“A significant amount of businesses would have been exposed to huge liabilities if the Federal Court’s interpretation stood,” he says. “It goes without saying that imposing billions of dollars of unforeseen employment costs, brought about by novel interpretations of our workplace laws, is the last thing Australian businesses need as they struggle to keep their heads above water during a global health and economic crisis.”

CSIRO FINDS NEW HOME AT AEROTROPOLIS of innovation through collaboration. Sydney is where CSIRO invented fast WiFi and where we will invent the next innovations for our future prosperity and sustainability.” The Aerotropolis relocation would progress CSIRO’s long-standing plans to consolidate activities and refresh its research facilities.

The NSW Government has entered discussions with CSIRO to relocate up to 450 employees and researchers of the national science agency into a state-ofthe-art research hub in the heart of the new Western Sydney Aerotropolis. The proposed move would see the creation of a bespoke carbon-neutral facility featuring collaborative workshops and modern, flexible laboratories to support the delivery of cutting-edge science and technology from 2026. The facility’s new home would be the Aerotropolis Advanced Manufacturing and Research Precinct, which will

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

bring together research institutes and commercial organisations across advanced manufacturing, quantum technologies, aerospace, defence and agribusiness. NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian says Aerotropolis will be a new focal point for Australian innovation, research and productivity, making it the perfect home for Australia’s national science agency. “CSIRO is a national icon and would set the tone for the Aerotropolis as an innovation hub, which will drive the creation of more than 200,000 jobs across the Western Parkland City,” she says.

CSIRO chief executive Dr Larry Marshall says the agency’s presence at Aerotropolis would support collaboration and put science and technology right at the heart of the smart city. “The more we can put science in the hands of real problems, the better our future will be, so the collaboration and connectedness of the Western Sydney Aerotropolis is an immense opportunity for CSIRO and the future we are shaping for Australia,” Dr Marshall says. “Aerotropolis reflects the new generation of CSIRO, agile and diverse, while building on a great 100-year legacy

At the same time, the move would support the agency’s growing commitment to Western Sydney, which includes the establishment of the first CSIRO Urban Living Lab at the Sydney Science Park, a $25 million NSW Government partnership to support science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) education, and a new 10-year lease agreement in the $350 million ‘Innovation Quarter’ precinct that will co-locate a team of CSIRO digital health and nutrition researchers at Westmead. With an estimated completion date of 2026, the Aerotropolis aims to be one of Australia’s most connected cities supporting current and future residents, businesses and researchers. The new CSIRO facility would also benefit from the $11 billion Sydney Metro – Western Sydney Airport rail which will service the greater Western Sydney area, and the opening of the Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport in 2026.

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020

NEWS

INFRASTRUCTURE COLLAB TO BOOST RAIL SAFETY The Federal Government has awarded $1.5 million to a University of Wollongong research project to increase safety and use of heavy-haul and high-speed rail infrastructure.

While it offers a number of safety and usage improvements, the installation time and cost of current ERT are significantly higher than those for ballast track – issues this research will address.

The funding, supplied by the Cooperative Research Centres Projects (CRC-P) grants scheme, will be used to support two researchers for two years as well as a PhD scholarship.

Including cash and in-kind contributions from partner organisations, the project is valued at more than $4 million. The project is led by Downer, and UOW is the lead research organisation. Other project partners are Embedded Rail Technology (Charles Penny, inventor of the ERT system), the University of Technology Sydney, and Antoun Civil.

The project, High Output, Low Cost Automated Embedded Rail Track (ERT), focuses on the development of automated solutions to reduce installation time and cost or ERT. A relatively new slab-track technology, ERT consists of a continuously laid bed of concrete with the rails embedded in the concrete in a unique way. Where ballast track has nearly 100 individual parts per metre – requiring regular inspection and maintenance – ERT uses only four components per metre, reducing maintenance costs and maintenance-related track closures.

Project leader Dr Philip Commins says ERT has many safety benefits, such as reduced track buckling and fewer derailments, but also increased track use by up to 30 per cent. “An ERT system provides greater safety, performance and availability, with lower maintenance and reduced whole life costs,” he says. As Australia’s plans are well advanced

for many major rail infrastructure projects, Dr Commins believes the need for improved safety in heavy haul and highspeed rail is a high priority. “This project is a key part of the chain to provide an economic alternative to the traditional rail systems.” Downer Infrastructure Projects executive general manager Mack Mackay welcomes the funding announcement and says Downer was looking forward to working on the project with UOW and other partners. “The University of Wollongong has always had a close affiliation with industry,” he says. “When Downer was seeking a technology partner the university’s automation technology and rail engineering prowess made it a natural choice.” Dr Commins and his team from the Facility for Intelligent Fabrication (FIF)

in UOW’s Faculty of Engineering and Information Sciences will focus their research on new construction techniques and will explore automation technologies to dramatically reduce the cost and improve the speed of installation to make ERT competitive with traditional ballasted track. “UOW will focus on the automated solutions using Industry 4.0 technology such as industrial robots coupled with smart sensors and end-effectors,” Dr Commins says. The Federal Government’s CRC-P scheme brings together researchers and industry with a focus on short-term projects that will have commercial uses.

A battery-powered chain hoist gives you portable safety onsite or offsite 2 5 0kg or 500kg CA P AC ITY U SE ANY WHE R E, E VE N WI TH OU T POW ER EASY TO U SE - SI MPL E T O B E SA FE

Ideal to move among equipment onsite, take from site to site or use where there is no power.

Use with an Altrac low-headroom gantry to maximise limited space such as inside a shipping container.

Every hoist comes with 2x 18V Li-ion batteries, single phase 240V charger and a portable case.

www.bomac.com.au or bit.ly/Battery-Hoist

Duke Battery Hoists are available in Australia and NZ exclusively from Bomac Engineering

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

NEWS

MOUSER WIDENS LINE CARD AND KEEPS NEW PRODUCTS COMING In the midst of the uncertainties of the COVID economy, the world of global transactions and supply chain in business is difficult to forecast. Many companies are taking a “wait and see” approach. However, several multinational companies instead are remaining open as essential businesses and quickly adapting to the current challenge. One such company is Mouser Electronics, the industry's leading New Product Introduction (NPI) distributor with the widest selection of semiconductors and electronic components. Mouser was named an essential business and has continued to remain open throughout the global pandemic. The global distributor even grew its industry-leading line card by adding 45 new manufacturers in the first half of 2020. Growing Mouser's current line card to almost 850 manufacturer partners, these new manufacturers enable Mouser to provide an even wider range of product options for its global customer base of design engineers, component buyers, and procurement agents. As the COVID-19 pandemic persists, supply chains worldwide remain in a state of flux, but Mouser has weathered that challenge through a variety of approaches across their 27 worldwide locations. The global distributor already had many digital processes in place, including an industry-leading e-commerce website to transact business in 27 currencies and 21 languages. Additionally, the company has increased automation and efficiency in its Global Distribution Centre and transitioned some of its customer service representatives to a successful remote work model. Teams in Mouser’s 27 offices are busy working and helping local customers via phone, email and chat. The authorised distributor also added value to its e-Commerce experience with a full suite of online purchasing services & tools for customers. The latest Mouser initiative is a Price and Availability Assistant, which allows customers around the world to easily check prices and availability of the millions of electronic components in the Mouser online catalogue. Mouser stocks the widest breadth of inventory in the world, specializing in the rapid introduction of new products and technologies for engineers and buyers

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

worldwide. The company’s extensive product offerings include semiconductors, interconnects, embedded, connectors, passives and electromechanical, and are sourced from more than 800 leading manufacturers. Mark Burr-Lonnon, Senior Vice President of Global Sales and Service & EMEA and APAC Business, helps guide the company’s global service strategy, as well as the day-to-day international efforts. “It’s too soon to tell what the full economic impact of the global pandemic will be on manufacturing,” he says. “But even with the sudden economic downturn, the use of electronic devices and systems seems to be strong worldwide. We are still shipping hundreds of thousands of components weekly. With addition of almost 50 new manufacturers in just the first half of the year, we are committed to being the industry's NPI leader and one-stop source for the board-level components and development tools needed for a complete project design." With 27 customer service centres strategically positioned around the world providing local language, currency and

Mark Burr-Lonnon - Senior V.P. EMEA, Asia and Global Service at Mouser Electronics

entire bill of materials. It’s an easy, onestop buying experience.” To add value to their services and products on offer, the company is pleased to be AS6496 accredited. This makes them the industry’s first authorised distributor accredited with the aerospace industry’s high standard in preventative

“With Mouser, customers can source their entire bill of materials. It’s an easy, one-stop buying experience.” same-time-zone support, Burr-Lonnon says Mouser helps customers access its broad product selection and design resources. He says it’s never been more important for component buyers and design engineers to purchase from authorised global distributors.

measures against distribution of counterfeit electronic components.

Inevitably, the pandemic has ramped up demand for online purchase, shipping and delivery of electronic components for safety and efficacy. In Australia, a recent survey reveals up to 80 per cent of Australians are conducting their purchases online, an unexpected offshoot of life within a pandemic.

This accreditation adds extra security and peace of mind for Mouser customers.

“Some sources are very limited in their component offerings,” Burr-Lonnon says. “With Mouser, customers can source their

“The AS6496 aerospace standard sets requirements for the avoidance, detection, mitigation and disposition of counterfeit products in the authorised distribution supply chain,” Burr-Lonnon says.

“Mouser has the efficiencies, security and convenience. We are a top-10 global distributor and have everything for buyers’ BOMs,” he says. “Whether customers are buying online or through one of our trained customer service representatives, we have the professionals and procedures in place to ensure an effective and efficient supply chain free of counterfeit

market products.” Burr-Lonnon says the acceleration of the digital revolution, including 5G technology and the Internet of Things, is helping to drive demand, even amid the current challenges. “The expansion of IoT will fuel global need across all industries for semiconductors and electronic components,” he says. “With 5G, AI, robotics, industrial automation and transportation, this will propel our industry for the next decade.” “We’re seeing new sensor technologies as well as the latest in power management and advancement in microprocessors,” Burr-Lonnon concludes. “Automotive, factory and home automation will continue to be emerging markets as more technologies are introduced to make buildings, homes and vehicles smarter and safer.” With the advent of new technologies from its manufacturers, Mouser is well positioned for the future. Burr-Lonnon anticipates there will be an increased need for wireless, mobile and telecommunications devices, all of which are integrated with the global distribution capability Mouser provides. The company hopes to meet the growing global demand with a newly expanded, state-of-the-art, global Headquarters and Distribution Centre, spanning 1 million square feet in Texas, USA. Mouser Electronics au.mouser.com

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020

THE CHOICE FOR LEVEL MEASUREMENT IS EASY: 80 GHZ RADAR! One sensor for bulk solids. Sounds simple, is simple!

TENTE

HEALTHCARE ON THE STRAIGHT AND NARROW For one of Australia’s largest healthcare equipment manufacturers and wholesalers, the use of Tente castors and wheels is often non-negotiable.

K Care and Tente’s relationship dates back long before Roberts’s time with the manufacturer, and that legacy has persisted in a reputation for quality.

Since 1976, K Care Healthcare Solutions has designed, built and provided furniture and equipment to Australia’s medical industry. From operation tables to dog cages and everything in between, K Care has provided the foundations – often quite literally – for the hard work of Australian medicos.

“Government tenders often specify that Tente products must be incorporated into our designs,” he says.

But as the industry becomes more agile and versatile, so too has K Care’s product range. Manoeuvrability is the name of the game, and that’s why there’s always room underneath K Care’s offerings for Tente castors and wheels. “It’s simply down to the quality and reliability of Tente’s products and service,” says K Care Healthcare Solutions general manager Carl Roberts.

“Our clients are very aware of Tente’s quality.” That quality has long set Tente apart from its competitors. Tente’s designs emphasise safety, durability and, to Roberts’s delight, aesthetics. “Tente’s wheels have a look and feel that’s a world away from typical industrial products,” he says. “In addition to all the innovations and features, they have great aesthetics. There’s so much included in such a simple design.”

“Compared to some suppliers in the industry, Tente’s longevity feels guaranteed.” “Their products just last longer than any other. It’s second to none.” With Tente wheels underfoot, K Care’s tables and cabinets are capable of the kind of smooth, stable movement demanded by the high-impact environments of hospitals. “Hospitals are very particular about the kind of equipment they allow,” Roberts says. “They need easy manual handling and strong safety features that cut down on potential workplace incidents, and that’s why they specifically look for Tente.” Tente’s range of castors and wheels boast innovative safety features such as directional locking mechanisms and twin wheels, which improve tracking through floors that are often crowded or slippery. “And what’s remarkable is that all these features are included in the one castor,” Roberts says. “Even our larger products like our bariatric chairs are made effortlessly manoeuvrable thanks to Tente’s castors.”

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, K Care has worked hard to expand its range to meet new healthcare needs. These new offerings include stainless steel COVID-ward carts and a range of Rehab Shower commodes, designed specifically to meet customer needs. Roberts believes the commode is a potential industry game changer thanks to its adjustable design, a big departure from the usual fixed-width style. “And of course, these new products use Tente wheels.” While its wheels and castors have become somewhat of a staple in K Care’s range, Roberts says Tente’s customer service is what seals the deal. “Their technical support is fantastic,” he says. “If I place an order, our Tente rep will be over with the delivery as soon as possible. If they’re ever out of stock, they immediately source replacements.” That Tente is an international

company means that it’s better positioned to have a reliable supply chain, Roberts says. “Compared to some suppliers in the industry, Tente’s longevity feels guaranteed.” And thanks to the dedication and expertise of its agents, Tente has become a key part of K Care’s own sales process. “We often encourage our clients to switch the castors they’re using to Tente, and our Tente rep has actually come along with us to client meetings and then followed up with that client independently, which has been a huge help,” Roberts says. “The sales reps’ technical knowledge of the Tente range really helps in situations like that, you have no doubt they know what they’re talking about. On top of that, the technical documentation of their products actually backs up what they say, and proves they meet the many industry standards.” While Tente’s prices are slightly above its competitors, Roberts believes you get what you pay for.

“The prices are competitive, there’s no doubt about that,” he says. “For the slight difference in price over the rest of what’s out there, the long-term rewards are very much worthwhile.” As K Care Healthcare Solutions goes forward into the new normal, Roberts says its aim is to strengthen the partnership by sourcing all its castors and wheels exclusively from Tente. “To an extent, we already do,” he says. “It’s only if a client or a tender specifies another supplier that we won’t use Tente. We use their castors and wheels wherever we can because they’re so much more durable, and that’s so crucial in a medical environment. “Basically, if we can use Tente, we do.” Tente Castors & Wheels 1300 836 831 www.tente.com.au

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020

NEWS

CSIRO LAUNCHES FACE MASK TESTING FACILITY Australia’s national science agency has launched the nation’s first accredited surgical face mask testing facility in Melbourne.

vital equipment to frontline medical staff, and make an important contribution to global response effort.”

The new facility, accedited by the National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA), is designed to help frontline health workers in the fight against COVID-19. It has the capacity to provide a rapid turnaround on surgical face mask testing, helping manufacturers fast-track the supply of masks.

CSIRO chief executive Dr Larry Marshall calls the facility another example of how science can support efforts to fight the COVID pandemic.

It’s also welcome relief for Australian companies that will not need to send masks and materials overseas for testing, saving time and money. Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews says the facility will boost Australia’s sovereign capability to produce essential medical supplies more efficiently and at a lower cost. “This new facility gives companies access to accredited testing here at home so they can demonstrate their products meet rigorous Australian standards,” she says. “Test evidence from the facility will give confidence to manufacturers who supply

“Science is guiding us through COVID-19, and science will help us grow on the other side. There’s not much Aussie innovation can’t solve, whether it’s finding the right vaccine or creating Australia’s only NATA-accredited face mask testing facility.” Queensland manufacturer Evolve Group has recently pivoted to mask manufacturing to help meet Australia’s COVID-19 PPE demands. Evolve’s managing director Ty Hermans says the new testing facility will support the company getting its masks to where they’re needed faster. “Using CSIRO’s Australian testing facility means we don’t have to ship our masks overseas,” he says.

“It has been our mission to reshore manufacturing ever since we started in 2006, so testing our face masks at CSIRO’s facility aligns with our goal to bolster Australia’s sovereign manufacturing capability and not have to rely on overseas facilities.” To gain NATA’s accreditation, the CSIRO facility underwent rigorous on-site assessments to ensure it could provide tests that show single-use surgical masks adequately filter biological particles, resist against blood penetration and enable the wearer to breathe comfortably. Manufacturers that pass all three tests will meet both Australian and international standards and can be registered on the Australian Register for Therapeutic Goods. The face mask testing facility builds on

CSIRO’s response to COVID-19, which has included testing and scaling up potential vaccines, using data to model and predict virus spread, and testing wastewater for traces of the virus. Dr Marshall says the advent of the new facility is inspiring. “This facility will give Aussie businesses another solution from science to stop the spread of COVID-19 and save lives.” Minister Andrews says the facility is great news for local manufacturers, and a strong example of Australian scientific ingenuity. “It’s further proof of how science is playing a critical role in Australia’s pandemic response.”

NEW HYSTER® UT SERIES

4-WHEEL ELECTRIC FORKLIFT MEETS THE NEED. MAKES THE MOVE. The new Hyster® UT Series 4-wheel electric forklift – in capacities from 1500-3500kg – provides cost-efficient performance, lower total cost of ownership and ergonomic design, backed by our reputable service network.

WWW.HYSTER.COM.AU /Hysterasiapacific

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020

HysterJAPIC

Hyster Asia-Pacific

is a Registered Trademark.

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

INDUSTRY POLITICS THE HON. KAREN ANDREWS MP – PARLIAMENT OF AUSTRALIA, MINISTER FOR INDUSTRY, SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

MANUFACTURING CENTRAL TO AUSTRALIA’S RESILIENCE Manufacturing is not just about making things, but is a central part of a modern, strong and resilient Australia. Nations are known by what they produce and their citizens take pride when these products develop an international reputation for excellence. Australia has a strong manufacturing capability, with its agility and capability on full display in rising to the challenges of the COVID-19 crisis. But we can do much more. The Morrison Government wants to help our manufacturers flourish, create more highly skilled jobs for Australians, while unlocking critical export market opportunities. We want to help develop the most modern, competitive, resilient and advanced manufacturing capability we

can, with diverse supply chains. We want Australian Made to be a byword for excellence, both at home and overseas. To export to the world you need to match and beat your global competitors in the quality of the products you produce. For it is in the pursuit of quality that Australian firms can create a competitive edge. At the same time we want to develop a manufacturing capability with the ability to supply some of our nation’s essential needs, particularly in times of crisis. There has been a surge in public support for our local manufacturers. We have to harness this support as we work through and emerge from the COVID-19 crisis.

Australia is known worldwide for the quality of our natural resources, but we can never be content with just digging things up and exporting them. We need to pursue opportunities to add value to our own resources. This involves being selective – we can’t be all things to all people. We need to look at what we are good at and what we can be good at. We have to identify our advantages and strengths and build upon them, including in areas of strategic importance.

COVID-19 has shown the great strengths of our med-tech community and we want to expand the sector and pharmaceutical manufacturing. We have a worldwide reputation for clean, green food and it is time we further enhance our strengths in food processing. Manufacturing will be at the heart of Australia’s COVID-19 recovery. Along with reducing input costs like energy and promoting local products, the Government is determined to help industry be enterprise driven and to scale up local production. As Industry Minister I am interested in outcomes, in particular what can be done not only to build Australian manufacturing in the next 12 months but to secure the jobs for our children’s future in the years and decades beyond. I will continue to work closely with

While we won’t be manufacturing the next iPhone or iPad, there are significant opportunities to develop components right here at home and further build a battery industry through processing our critical minerals and rare earths.

industry to build on our strengths and

Built into that mission is a focus on community and stewardship that has become a core part of Tennant’s culture. In addition to sustainable technologies and cradle-to-cradle manufacturing processes, the company contributes to its communities by maintaining environmentally focused practices in Tennant facilities as well as engaging in community cleanup and improvement activities.

choose through donations of cash, goods and work in their neighbourhoods.

help our manufacturers expand and prosper. The Hon Karen Andrews MP is Minister for Industry, Science and Technology.

TENNANT CELEBRATES 150 YEARS When George H. Tennant started his woodworking business on the banks of the Mississippi River in 1870, he could hardly have imagined what it would become 150 years later. Like many others, Tennant chose the location to power his sawmill, milling and planing timber to help build the young and growing city of Minneapolis, Minnesota. In time, Tennant’s business grew and evolved as company leaders made investments in innovation and focused on solving problems for customers. Innovation is at the core of Tennant’s success and always has been, from the early days when the company recognised the potential of mechanising the laborious task of maintaining its wooden floors to the groundbreaking work it does today. Over the years, the company moved from making floors to providing floor care solutions. It introduced innovative products to improve cleaning processes, provide safer and more comfortable

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

equipment for operators, and make cleaning more sustainable. The latest advancement in this proud tradition is the first-to-perform robotic floor scrubber. Tennant’s entry into the world of robotics shows that the 150-yearold company is still very mjuch focused on the future - and looking forward to another 150 years of industry firsts. The Tennant brand has become renowned worldwide for quality, reliability and service in the cleaning industry. The flagship mark leads other respected brands owned by the company, including Nobles, Alfa, VLX and recent acquisitions IPC and Gaomei. With manufacturing facilities in Europe, Asia and North and South America, direct sales operations in15 countries and a network of distributors spanning more than 100 countries, Tennant Company cleans around the world to fulfil its mission: making the work a cleaner, safer and healthier place.

Volunteering and community involvement take many forms at Tennant. In fact, the cornerstone of the company’s celebration of this year’s milestone anniversary is its “$150k for 150 Years” challenge, inviting Tennant employees throughout the world to raise the equivalent of $150,000 for charities they

A century and a half of innovation. Of community involvement. Of customer partnerships. This year, as Tennant Company celebrates its 150th anniversary, a new global headquarters campus is opening in Eden Prairie, Minnesota. The property is less than 20 miles from the Mississippi River where George Tennant started his journey - fitting for a company that is grounded in deep traditions, inventing its future and making its mark as an industry leader. Tennant Company 1800 226 843 au.tennantco.com

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020

EDITORIAL

A DOORWAY TO LOCAL QUALITY Vulcan Doors, a South Australian family company with over 12 years’ experience in the commercial and industrial door industry. From automated gates and roller doors to bollards and shutters, Vulcan has the know-how and the experience to close the threshold. Every step of the way, from quoting to installation, Vulcan prioritises safety, professionalism and quality customer service. The Vulcan team works closely with clients to ensure all WHS and administrative needs are met.

Buying and fitting commercial, industrial or even domestic doors is an experience that can swing one of two ways. With the big companies, you’ll often spend a fortune for impersonal service that’s just good enough.

Look beyond the big brands, however, and you’ll discover the kind of personal and professional touch you only get from a family owned and operated business. That’s exactly what you get from

One thing that can be the undoing of any door project is carelessness when it comes to Australian Standards and Building Codes. Your service provider may claim to be fully qualified, but do they hold current police checks? Do they have the required electrical licence for work on commercial motors? With Vulcan, you can rest assured

these problems won’t arise. The team is fully equipped with current police checks, DCSI clearances, B-Class electrical licences, White Cards and High-Risk licences. Vulcan will ensure all WHS and administrative needs are met so you don’t have to. Vulcan also places products from only the most reputable and trusted brands into the skilled hands of its staff, and as a result, will not install doors prepurchased by customers. Whether you’re starting from scratch or you need to fix what’s there, call Vulcan and discover the difference in cost and quality a local business can offer. Vulcan Doors 0411 370 683 www.vulcandoors.com.au

Charging and test diagnostic equipment for all industrial and automotive applications Trust DURST to keep you moving Jump Starters

Battery Chargers

Proudly manufacturing in Australia since 1918

Solar Case

Portable Power

Personal Battery Chargers Durst Industries are the leading Australian manufacturer of Automotive Electrical Charging and Diagnostic equipment. Our range addresses many markets including transportation, mining, education, logistics and military

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020

Test Benches

02 9660 1755 Shop online at durst.com.au

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

INDUSTRY POLITICS THE HON. BRENDAN O’CONNOR MP

MANUFACTURING NEEDS LONG-TERM AGENDA As we entered 2020, nothing could have prepared Australians that we were set to face economic turmoil not seen since the Great Depression, borne out of a global virus. While we don’t know the precise effects of this virus nor in turn the economic consequences, what we do know is that we are experiencing an upheaval causing record job losses and economic contraction. We also know that how we respond to this economic crisis in the months and years ahead is crucial to our long term economic and social wellbeing. The Prime Minister has spoken of the idea of a “snap back” at the end of this crisis. But snap back to what, exactly?

There was no robust economy prior to COVID-19. Well before this global pandemic and well before the summer bushfires, Australia’s economy was weak with sluggish wages growth, slowing productivity, softening unemployment and rising underemployment. The Government’s economic update in July simply pushed what was a September cliff with a slow descent toward a March cliff. This is not reform and it is not a comprehensive strategic plan for the country. As part of a strategic plan, the Government needs a comprehensive manufacturing and industry policy to drive employment and boost

REDUCE MAINTENANCE COSTS

ON OVERHEAD CRANES LOAD LIMITERS

ROPE AND CHAIN CRANES AND HOISTS • Helps reduce the risk of accidents • Protects against overloading of Crane and supporting structures • Quick and easy installation and available for all capacity cranes • Available preset or easily calibrated on site • Helps reduce maintenance costs • Minimizes down time • Automatic reset by reducing the load

CONDUCTOR BAR • • • •

Available in steel & copper Quickly and easily installed Supports required only every 1.5m Also available in a compact cluster range

Liftco Industrial Supplies Pty Ltd

(02) 9829 4411 sales@liftco.com.au

www.liftco.com.au

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

SIDE PULL PREVENTERS / ROPE GUIDE PROTECTOR Prevents side pulling and protects rope guides and drums on most multi-fall cranes & hoist • Prevent dragging of loads • Easily fitted to any crane/hoist • Helps reduce down time

Equipment, recently criticised the R&D Tax Incentive bill, saying amendments to the bill “makes Australia less attractive to invest relative to other countries”. The Lighting Council of Australia has commented that they are troubled we will see a transfer of R&D away from Australia to New Zealand, which will cost Australian jobs.

economic growth.

Australia has always been a nation that makes things, but this ability is shrinking as the manufacturing sector has been contracting, not growing.

We’re into the seventh years of this government, and yet the long-term agenda for Australian manufacturing is paper thin.

The virus has demonstrated just how vulnerable Australia is to global supply chain shocks.

The National Coronavirus Coordination Commission’s Manufacturing taskforce is yet to release its report. Media reports would have you question what exactly this government has been doing during its time in office. Australia’s manufacturing policy has been criticised as “fragmented” with “short term solutions” and “misaligned incentives”. Professor Roy Green has openly commented on the fragmentation and under-resourcing of Australia’s industry policy saying, “Funding for research and innovation is spread haphazardly over 13 portfolio areas and 150 budget line items.” The economic Budget update was a perfect opportunity to announce such a belated plan, but nothing was forthcoming. We now have to wait until the October budget, if we can trust that any strategy will be announced then. If the Morrison Government was as committed to supporting Australian manufacturing as they say they are, then why has the Industry minister’s COAG not met since October 2018? COVID-19 is a blinding reminder of the error that was goading car manufacturers to leave our shores: a failed energy policy increasing the costs of manufacturing; the depletion of critical skills; the destruction of the viability of smaller manufacturers further down the supply chain; and the withdrawal of private capital from research and development. Speaking of research and development, a number of business leaders and experts have raised concerns about Australia’s R&D capacity, which is inextricably linked to a recovery led by advanced manufacturing. Without even a hint of irony, the only plan the Morrison Government currently has for Australia’s manufacturing industry is to rip $1.8 billion from the Research and Development Tax Incentive (RDTI). They speak publicly against raising taxes to drive economic recovery, but at the same time they want to increase the tax burden on innovative firms by nearly $2 billion. ResMed, the company often lauded by Industry Minister Karen Andrews for their help in developing essential Personal Protective

According to research by Jim Stanford at the Australia Institute’s Centre for Future Work, Australia ranks last in a list of OECD countries in terms of manufacturing self-sufficiency. Less than 1 million people work in the manufacturing sector, accounting for 6.4 per cent of jobs. This has declined from 16.5 per cent of the workforce in the late 1980s, when manufacturing was the largest employer. The Harvard University Economic Complexity Index assesses the complexity of economies through the diversity and research intensity of exports. Australia, ranked 50 on that index in 1995, dropped to 93 by 2017. Without new investment in advanced manufacturing, we will not diversify our economic base and that will limit prospects for growth. It is without a doubt that some of our manufacturers have adapted to produce much needed Personal Protective Equipment and other essential supplies during COVID-19. But let me be clear, Australia needs a more sophisticated manufacturing plan than just responding to crises. If we want manufacturing and industry policy to be front and centre, then we need a government that believes in its future and takes it seriously. The impact of this recession has been so great and so sudden. And our response must be bold and strategic. The lack of a comprehensive plan for economic recovery is a missed opportunity to create jobs. Labor will continue to offer strategic advice and rise to the significant challenge ahead. ears.

We just hope that advice won’t fall on deaf

Brendan O’Connor is Shadow Minister for Industry and Employment.

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020

You’re in manufacturing We have a banking expert for that - Andrew. Call Andrew Eastwood, Executive Manager on 0402 970 792 to find out how your business can benefit from our Manufacturing & Wholesale banking expertise.

Bank of Melbourne Industry Banking

FOCUS POINT

RESILIENCE TOWARDS ECONOMIC RECOVERY

By Industry Update

fashion outlets and leisure spending among the worst hit. On a national level, Australian consumer spending has dropped between three and five per cent. Premier Andrews has announced further consultation with businesses and communities as part of Victoria’s roadmap to recovery towards “COVID normal”. But Mr Willox says there is a need for the Victorian government to be well ahead with its business consultations on joint strategies towards economic recovery. Premier Andrews says the Victorian government is doing its best to address buslness and industry concerns. “We know every Victorian wants certainty about the future – for them, for their family and for their work,” he said.

As manufacturing acclimatises to the “COVID normal”, challenges such as disrupted supply chains, unstable staff retention and lower financial bottom lines persist. As a result, Australia’s industry association AiGroup has pushed the Federal Government for stronger recovery strategies for the whole of Australia. The August release of AiGroup’s Australian Performance of Manufacturing Index (APMI) indicate “broadly stable conditions” for the manufacturing sector overall nationwide. The AiGroup’s Australian PMI is from combined indices of production, new orders, deliveries, inventories and employment data. According to the AiGroup these results are gathered from a national sample of manufacturers and uses Australia/New Zealand classifications for manufacturing sub-sectors.

He adds this was in line with the introduction of severe restrictions on businesses and as local consumer demand was hit hard by the stay-at-home orders.”

of Victoria’s state of emergency was ultimately granted at a reduced period of six months – half of what was originally proposed.

However with positive news, the APMI also indicated some growth in the food & beverage, machinery & equipment, textiles, clothing, footwear, paper and in printing.

This reinforces concerns about the negative impact of lengthy COVID restrictions, particularly surrounding the closure of businesses and especially for those already struggling to keep up with the dynamic nature of COVID-19 risk management.

But Mr Willox did acknowledge that the “further fall in new orders cast a major shadow over conditions in the coming months.” He adds a “further stimulus may be needed to help speed up the recovery in

Since early August, Victoria has been under Stage Four lockdown. This involves curfews between 8pm and 5am across metropolitan Melbourne in a bid to further

The government should adopt a balance of risk approach and, while taking health advice, give fuller consideration to other implications of lockdowns.

In August the Australia PMI dropped by 4.2 points with divergence between the main manufacturing states. Victoria has contracted significantly compared to other states due to the impacts of COVID-19.

consumer and business spending.”

curtail COVID community transmission.

As we enter spring, daily COVID cases in Victoria are no longer in triple digits.

Ai Group Chief Executive Innes Willox says,

The first day of September saw 90 new cases – good news for the Victorian Government, which is relying on strict lockdowns to control the spread of infection.

The use of face masks for Victorian residents and businesses is also compulsory. At this point in time many of Victoria’s business operators are a step ahead putting COVID-19 Safety plans for their workplaces.

"While the manufacturing sector held on to recent gains with activity broadly stable in August, manufacturers from Victoria, which accounts for about 25 percent of the national economy, sunk back into negative territory in the month.”

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

During Parliament session, Premier Daniel Andrews’s request for an extension

However some 13,000 tradie jobs have reportedly disappeared across the state, sliding seven per cent from pre-COVID levels. Overall consumer spending has reportedly dipped 22 per cent with cafes,

“Workplaces will need to look very different as we found our "COVID normal". By working with business we’ll make sure that can happen practically and safely.” The announcement towards the “COVID normal” was supported by Victoria’s Minister for Industry Support and Recovery Martin Pakula. “We’ve said from the start that supporting our businesses will be crucial as we re-build that’s why we’re bringing them to the table as work continues on our future roadmap,” he says. “Over the next few days, we’ll be talking through our COVIDSafe principles to ensure businesses can survive, adapt and most importantly, open up safely.” AiGroup’s Mr Willox acknowledges that the outcomes won’t be immediate. In a recent Federal Budget Submission they’ve identified important changes which are all hallmarks for building resilience.

These included: - A clear return to business strategy that allows businesses and their employees to be ready for how and when activity can resume. - Boosting employment, skills, employability combined with wage support for new apprentices and trainees. - Program of skills assessment and adaptive training for displaced workers. - Incentives for companies to invest in

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020

FOCUS POINT training for workers. - Improved funding for vocational education and training. - National program of wage support and incentives for cadets and interns in companies. - The increase of entrepreneurship, innovation and funded multi-partner industry training hubs. AiGroup wants resources freed up to complement the JobKeeper and JobSeeker payments then believe have kept the economy going through the economic crisis. The group wants the Government to demonstrate what success looks like, and to indicate what clear, evidence-based outcomes its is seeking to achieve. In addition to business impacts, “the Government should adopt a balance of risk approach and, while taking health advice, give fuller consideration to other implications of lockdowns including on domestic violence levels, mental health, suicide rates, higher youth unemployment and long-term unemployment,” Willox says. “ The risk-oriented approach should mean the removal of blanket COVID-19 restrictions.” AiGroup recognizes that our economy is entering its first recession since the early 1990’s. Mr Willox says the forthcoming Budget presents an opportunity to act on measures that will rectify the underlying weakness in the economy that were present prior to the COVID-19 crisis. “Fortunately, our generally prudent approach to fiscal policy over many years means we are relatively well-equipped not only to manage the increased deficits and the greater levels of debt that have come with the COVID-19 crisis, but also to manage further stimulus in the 2020-21 Budget.” The AiGroup wants fiscal strength to remain a priority, acknowledging that it will have its own challenges which will include reviewing Australia’s pattern of taxation. Recognizing a potential budget deficit brought on by the current crisis, Mr Willox says it is still important not to “hold back on well-considered measures” to be able to move beyond the recession. Specific to the Budget coming up AiGroup proposed the following changes: - To extend the term of the Coronavirus Supplement and similar to stimulus packages introduced, provide a further Economic Support Payment.

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020

- Reductions in personal income tax to increase take-home pay thereby increase household spending. AiGroup says that the upper threshold for the 19% tax rate can be lifted to $45,00;while reducing tax rates on incomes between $45-$90k to up to thirty percent. They add that changes to the Low income tax offset (LITO) and Low and Middle Income tax offset (LMITO) can take place six months earlier than planned. Mr Willox group’s proposal for helping the business community and the overall economy also includes boosting business

Incentive.

with controlling covid transmission.

Scaling up energy efficiency and energy management technologies was a feature of Mr Willox’s team as proposal to government.

“It’s an over-reaction. Thousands of businesses have been able to operate their businesses for months even during the pandemic.

They say this can take place as an environmental objective through the allocation of $500million over 2 years for capital grants.

"They’ve put COVID safety plans in place but have not been able to implement it after shutdown. So this is creating economic and emotional stress.”

Mr Willox believes that at the minimum Australia should be able to become self-reliant with its own healthcare systems.

“It’s also creating unemployment. In August 66,000 jobs disappeared from Victoria. It will have massive economic consequences.”

Identifying the pharmaceutical and

The AiGroup has argued for a localised and more proportionate response to managing the pandemic. If NSW has been able to do it up to an extent, Victoria can learn from it.

The AiGroup has argued for a localised and more proportionate response to managing the pandemic cash flows, investment and employment by extending the reduction to 25 percent in the company tax rate. The company tax rate is scheduled to take effect from next July for all companies with a turnover below $50million to those with a turnover of less than $1billion. The business sector supported by AiGroup has also called for the federal government to work with states and territories to accelerate infrastructure and housing projects now in the pipeline. Given that increasing R&D has also been pointed out as key strategy to facilitate moving to advanced manufacturing status; Mr Willox group also proposed the withdrawal of changes to the law which will cut back the coverage for the Research and Development Tax

medical technology sectors as important players he believes Australia’s health capacities should be the policymakers’ first objective. “ Resilience doesn’t necessarily mean we have to make everything here. It does mean though that we can create potential to make many things here and give industry the opportunity to pivot quickly to make what we need as a country.” Industry Update raised with Mr Willox that his organisation has been quite vocal about the way the Victorian Government has handled the covid outbreak in its state who they say have largely ignored issues and concerns of the business sector. He thinks that the government may have over-reacted and has taken quite extreme measures in some of its approach

“The government has over reacted and has not consulted more as widely as it should have. The result of that is there are businesses that could have operated and should still be opened and operated within covid safe practise capacities.” “The reality is that many businesses are just barely hanging on and the need for the strict lockdown needs to be over.” Finishing on a more optimistic note Mr Willox says he does acknowledge the importance of donning masks and its role in successfully keeping the covid spread within the 2-digit numbers in the state of Victoria. He buys his supply of masks from a local Victoria manufacturer Sleep Corp Pty Ltd in South Victoria. “ The mask manufacturing industry which is now fast expanding in Australia is a perfect example of how Australia can become stronger and a self-reliant advanced manufacturing country overall,” says the AiGroup’s head Mr Willox.

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

COVID- 19 : WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

FACE MASKS UNMASKED Love them or hate them, face masks have become a tenet of the “new normal” reality of life with COVID-19.

The mask-wearing advice extends to areas where there is high community transmission such as places of worship.

As the debate over whether to wear them or not continues to rage around the world, Industry Update has put together the most accurate information possible surrounding the use and efficacy of standard masks.

Face masks are also strongly recommended – along with the practice of social distancing, hand washing and the use of sanitiser – when using taxis or rideshares.

Controversies around mask use abound, from whether the wearing of masks should be made compulsory, to which masks should be worn (and on what occasion), and in what circumstances we should cover up.

Meanwhile, as winter continues to chill the nation, the COVID-stricken state of Victoria has begun to regulate compulsory wearing of face masks on account of its second wave of infections.

As we go to print, the wearing of masks has become “strongly recommended” by the NSW public transport system, almost as important as social distancing inside trains and buses.

The rest of the country hasn’t gone that far, but like the rest of the world – especially those experiencing a second wave of the pandemic, such as the United States, India and Japan – Australia has become acutely conscious about the efficacy of masks.

NSW Transport’s coronavirus travel advice says that the state is on high alert as a result of the recent increase in COVID-19 cases.

Safe Work Australia is currently reviewing the wearing of masks and advises that the public refers to Department of Health guidelines.

“Following NSW Health advice, wearing a face mask while using public transport is strongly recommended, as well as in other situations where it is difficult to maintain physical distance.”

For those among us who choose to wear face masks, the standard surgical mask is a common choice. For health workers attending to patients, the use of P2 and KN95 masks as part of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is a must.

The travel advice also details where and in what situations the wearing of face masks may become necessary: in “enclosed spaces where physical distancing is not guaranteed, such as buying groceries and customer-facing staff in hospital and retail.”

So what’s the difference between a surgical mask and those required for use by health workers exposed to COVID cases? Safe Work Australia differentiates

between a “cloth mask” and industry-required masks. Cloth masks are made from washable fabric like cotton and denim, and are worn by the general public in areas where there is community transmission and difficult-tomaintain physical distancing. P2 and KN95 masks are about reducing respiratory exposure to airborne contaminants and are used when there’s high probability of transmission from particles and droplets in the air. The two mask styles are recommended only for use in healthcare settings due to high demand caused by the pandemic. The Victorian Government has declared that from August 2020, all Victorians “must wear a face covering when they leave home, no matter where they live.”

It also points to an increase in “fake masks” brought on by demand and warns that misleading representations about masks can lead to a fine of up to $10 million as per Australian Consumer Law. Australia’s only accredited face mask manufacturer is the family-owned Med-Con, based in Victoria. Med-Con, which has been providing products to the medical industry since 1989, has introduced “Level 2 and Level 3 face masks” which are rigorously tested for filtration efficiency and fluid resistance. As guidelines surrounding mask wearing continue to change, Industry Update will stay on top of the issue and provide its readers with the latest information. Watch this space. REFERENCES

Safework NSW alerts users to check that masks purchased for work use meet Australian standards or the international equivalent. These include the manufacturer’s trade name and the mask filter’s classification.

• SafeWork NSW – safework.nsw.gov.au • Safe Work Australia – safeworkaustralia.gov.au • Department of Health – health.gov.au • WorkSafe Victoria – Worksafe.vic.gov.au • Med-Con – medcon.com.au

medical surfaces to better protect patients and staff from the risk of COVID-19 virus cross-infection.

staff. Ensuring hand sanitisers are easily accessible will assist in minimising the risk of infection.

Whiteley Corporation, a leading global innovator in infection prevention solutions, is now making Viraclean available to the wider market, including the manufacturing sector.

Remember: to keep everyone in our community safe – including your staff – wash your hands regularly, socially distance, and when necessary, wear a mask.

Effective surface cleaning, particularly of high-touch areas (doorhandles, benchtops) combined with good hand hygiene will assist in protecting your

Whiteley Corporation 1800 833 566 www.whiteley.com.au

EFFECTIVE CLEANING DURING THE COVID PANDEMIC As we progress through 2020 it’s become apparent that COVID-19 isn’t going to disappear quickly. Instead, we need to adapt to the new normal when it comes to surface cleaning and disinfecting. Many of our customers are concerned about the risk of virus transmission via a contaminated surface. Some viruses cannot live for long outside a human or animal host, whereas others can survive for prolonged periods on contaminated surfaces. Based on current information and published evidence, the coronavirus sits somewhere in the middle of the risk zone. Its ability to remain alive on surfaces is varied, making this virus even more challenging to remove. Thorough surface cleaning and disinfecting is imperative to ensure any potentially contaminated

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

surface is left in a clean and hygienic condition. When cleaning a surface the first step is to physically remove all dirt and grime; this requires some elbow grease. The surface you’re cleaning, whether floors, walls or benchtops, will determine which cleaning products to use. A good detergent or combination detergent and disinfectant is the right place to start. Once the surface is clean, use a TGA-registered disinfectant that has been entered into the ARTG with specific claims against SARS-Cov-2 (COVID-19) or COVID-19 on the product label to disinfect the surface. Viraclean is a hospital-grade disinfectant intended for use on a range of

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020

COVID- 19 : WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

MONASH PIONEERS SUPER FAST COVID TEST In a world first, Monash University researchers have been able to detect positive cases of COVID-19 using blood samples in about 20 minutes. Monash researchers were able to identify recent COVID-19 cases using 25 microlitres of plasma from blood samples. The discovery could advance the worldwide effort to limit the community spread of COVID-19 through robust contact tracing. The research team, led by BioPRIA and Monash University’s Chemical Engineering Department (including researchers from the ARC Centre of Excellence in Convergent BioNano Science and Technology (CBNS)), developed a simple agglutination assay – an analysis to determine the presence and amount of a substance in blood – to detect the presence of antibodies raised in response to the SARS-CoV-2 infection. Positive COVID-19 cases caused an agglutination or a clustering of red blood cells, which was easily identifiable to the naked eye. Researchers were able to retrieve positive or negative readings in about 20 minutes. The assay could potentially be used to detect antibodies raised in response to vaccination to aid clinical trials.

Using a simple lab setup, this discovery could see medical practitioners across the world testing up to 200 blood samples an hour. Some hospitals with high-grade diagnostic machines could be able to test more than 700 blood samples every hour – about 16,800 each day. “Detection of antibodies in patient plasma or serum involves pipetting a mixture of reagent red blood cells (RRBCs) and antibody-containing serum/plasma onto a gel card containing separation media, incubating the card for 5-15 minutes, and using a centrifuge to separate agglutinated cells from free cells,” says Dr Simon Corrie, one of the study’s leaders. “This simple assay, based on commonly used blood typing infrastructure and already manufactured at scale, can be rolled out rapidly across Australia and beyond. This test can be used in any lab that has blood typing infrastructure, which is extremely common across the world.” Dr Corrie, along with Professor Gil Garnier and Professor Mark Banaszak Holl (BioPRIA and Chemical Engineering, Monash University) led the study, with initial funding provided by the Chemical Engineering Department and the Monash Centre to Impact Anti-microbial Resistance.

AUGUST SEPTEMBER 2020 half page ad July20.indd Whiteley/ Viraclean Industry Update

Researchers collaborated with clinicians at

Monash Health to collect blood samples from people recently infected with COVID-19, as well as samples from healthy individuals sourced before the pandemic emerged. Tests on 10 clinical blood samples involved incubating patient plasma or serum with red blood cells previously coated with short peptides representing pieces of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. If the patient sample contained antibodies against SARS-CoV-2, these antibodies would bind to peptides and result in the aggregation of the red blood cells. Researchers then used gel cards to separate aggregated cells from free cells in order to see a line of aggregated cells indicating a positive response. In negative samples, no aggregates in the gel cards were observed. Professor Holl commended the work of talented PhD students in BioPRIA and Chemical

Engineering who paused their projects to help deliver this game changing COVID-19 test. “This simple, rapid and easily scalable approach has immediate application in SARSCoV-2 serological testing, and is a useful platform for assay development beyond the COVID-19 pandemic. We are indeblted to the work of our PhD students in bringing this to life,” he says. “Funding is required in order to perform full clinical evaluation across many samples and sites. With commercial support, we can begin to manufacture and roll out this assay to the communities that need it. This can take as little as six months depending on the support we receive.” COVID-19 has caused a worldwide viral pandemic, contributing to nearly 600,000 deaths and more than 13.8 million cases reported internationally.

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU 30/6/20 9:28 am 21

INDUSTRY UPDATE

TOUGH HYSTER LIFT TRUCKS EXTEND COST EFFICIENT PERFORMANCE Hyster-Yale Asia Pacific is introducing its expanded family of Hyster UT series three-wheel lift trucks into Australasia. The new Hyster UT electric range is ideal for multiple warehousing and logistics applications demanding high productivity over a broad range of simpler materials handling needs. Hyster has expanded the range to include three-wheel forklifts in 16002000kg capacity, pallet lift trucks in 1500kg capacity and stand-up and sit-down tow trucks in 3000-6000kg capacity respectively. All are engineered to expand the longestablished strengths of the Hyster brand into wider markets seeking a quality, costefficient solution backed globally to meet users’ needs for applications requiring less frequent usage. “The uncompromising levels of equipment in the new UT lift trucks includes the latest driver safety, comfort, manoeuvrability and drive features to emerging and growing applications such as warehousing, logistics (including 3PL), parts, hospitals and aerial platforms like the ones you see at hardware stores,” says Hyster-Yale Pacific area business director Mark Chaffey. The latest additions to the UT family join Hyster’s four-wheel UT forklifts in bringing the performance of electric forklifts to emerging and growing market sectors seeking optimum cost-efficiency for their materials handling needs, says Chaffey, while still gaining Hyster’s long-established strengths of toughness, reliability, safety and strong service

backing. “The expanded family of UT electric lift trucks brings the broad range of Hyster brand advantages to these markets without paying for features users don’t need in their particular businesses.”

Features of the new lift trucks include: Three-wheel electric lift trucks incorporate an ergonomically designed operator compartment laid out to help operators work comfortably in machinery engineered for drivers, with an outstanding range of compliance, performance, antifatigue and easy service features. Power options include wet cell batteries with single point watering or maintenancefree Lithium-Ion technology. Smooth, progressive high performance is provided by AC traction and hydraulic motors with electronic control. European-designed AC controllers coupled with AC traction and hydraulic motors allow for precise controllability. Compact dual-drive motors – one for each front wheel – feature precision-cut gears for reduced wear and lower noise levels. A small steering wheel facilitates fine control, with eight degrees of adjustment and low steering effort for operation in confined space. The low steering effort without kick-back facilitates precise positioning. Hyster Seated T6.0UT and Standing T3.0UT electric tow tractors combine ergonomic and safety features with reliable performance from energy-efficient technology. Their low maintenance needs, easy access for routine servicing as well

as simple, readily available components provide increased productivity and reduced operational costs. Their safety and structural design also includes an ergonomic operator compartment, incorporating spacious non-slip floor plate and anti-vibration function on the T3.0UTS. The drive-axle design and low centre of gravity provides excellent stability of the T6.0UT, which also features Operator Presence System (OPS) and Emergency Stop buttons also featured on other members of the UT series family. Hyster UT Electric Walkie Pallet Truck. The 24V sealed maintenance-free battery powered P1.5UT also combines economic operation with energy-efficient, low maintenance technology delivering reliable performance and increased productivity with reduced operation costs. With a small turning radius of 1.454mm and long handle to reduce steering effort, the P1.5UT increases productivity and safety by having castors to increase stability, entry rollers for easy operation, as well as strong performance on gradients,

and when the tiller is upright, a reduction in turning space. The machine’s floating balance wheel automatically adjusts height and improves stability when unloading. “The use of high quality and robust components, complemented by outstanding filtration and cooling, help provide reliability and low cost of ownership in a user-oriented truck,” Chaffey says. “This, combined with fast availability of cost-effective replacement parts helps to curtail maintenance requirements and costs.” If you prefer proven materials handling solutions backed by a supplier you can trust, Hyster meeds the need and makes the move. Hyster-Yale Asia-Pacific Pty Ltd 02 9795 3842 www.hyster-yale.com

PACK KING INTRODUCES POWERED FLOOR CRANES Loading or unloading a crate from the top isn’t easy – unless you have a forklift or a crane. Even then, getting crate to crane is not always a simple procedure depending on the layout of the site. Pack King has responded by introducing a new range to its packaging and handling offerings: King Powered Floor Cranes. With a King Powered Floor Crane, there’s no longer a need to take the forklift or overhead crane out of action for

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

relocation when it’s time to unload. Simply power drive the crane to the destination, power extend and raise the crane jib to the required height. From there, secure the slings around the safety hook and lift. To load a crate, reverse the process. While floor cranes can initially be more cost-effective, the operator has to push or pull the crane and then add the load weight, all without control over the wheels. With the King Powered Floor Crane, brakes are applied as soon as the throttle is eased.

Manual floor cranes can take dozens, if not hundreds of pump strokes to reach full height, and the extension boom must be set manually. The Powered Floor Crane raises and extends hydraulically, dramatically reducing manual labour. Pack King offers four Powered Floor Crane models, all with 2500mm max boom extension and 3.5m lift height. Load weight ranges from 200kg to 1200kg dependant on boom pick-up length. Powered Floor Crane legs are available in fixed width (or straddle), or splayed and extendable models.

Whether you’re working with trucks and utes with awkward loads, picking up drums from pallets or even removing engines from vehicles, the King Powered Floor Crane puts power and safety back into loading and unloading. Pack King 0410 302 033 www.packking.com.au

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020

ED TO CUT THE REST. ‘Given our regional location, the quality and speed of service is absolutely HAT’S APPLIED critical to us; I couldn’t ask for a better NG.association with a machinery partner.’ MARK HOOPER, OWNER – JMAR ENGINEERING, SHEPPARTON, VIC

peed and consistency of cut, combined with very low operating ber laser is the perfect way to take your business to the next level.

F is in a league of its own, opening up possibilities for companies ector; from start-ups through to full production, 3-shift

At Applied Machinery, we treat our customers business’ as an extension of our own. We view Precitec auto-focus cutting ongoing service, training andhead, supportIPG as laser source, Siemens critical to ensuring our customers can extract icated, stress-relieved fully annealed frame it really is a cut above maximum return from their machinery investment. We’re not like other suppliers who are indifferent to their customers and only in the industry for a quick buck. With nearly 30 years’ experience, and thousands of satisfied customers across the country we’re here for the long term. We’re a true machinery partner – just ask Mark Hooper. Real Service. Real Support. Real People. That’s Applied Thinking.

om.au .au Connect with us socially

22/12/16 9:27 am

INDUSTRY UPDATE

LIFT SKILLS AND LOWER COSTS WITH YALE Yale’s versatile UX 4-wheel electric lift truck range raises global standards of driver focus while lowering ownership cost. Yale, a global leader in forklift design innovation and warehouse logistics, has released its new UX series throughout the Asia-Pacific region. The range, which includes six vehicles between one to 3.5 tonnes, is ideal for less frequent usage and features outstanding service backup. The 4-wheel electric UX models complement the broader UX series range. “The new range combines robust quality and strong service backing to cost-effectively tackle simple everyday materials handling needs, bringing the performance of electric forklifts to a broader market sector seeking optimum costefficiency for their needs,” says Yale’s Pacific area business director Mark Chaffey. The Yale UX series’ safetyoriented design and agile performance make the new lift

trucks easy to use in restrictive spaces for businesses of all sizes. Agribusiness, food and beverage, refrigeration and warehouse, transport and logistics, manufacturing, primary processing and packaging are just some of the sectors that can benefit from the UX’s features. “Through the use of high-quality components and advanced ergonomic technology, the Yale UX series provides the driver with superb control while delivering reliable operation and lower wear and tear,” Chaffey says. “Coupled with fast availability of genuine and costeffective replacement parts, Yale’s ‘People, Products, Productivity’ market advantage is what helps reduce maintenance costs and downtime.” Design of the Yale UX series was done with the driver in mind. Comfort is the main feature of the operator compartment, which has been configured to enable drivers to work effortlessly and allows for easy accessibility and controllability. The small steering wheel, which features eight degrees of adjustment and low steering effort for operation in confined spaces, provides fine control, while a range of standard and optioned features further boost the versatility of the truck. Yale is diversifying its product offerings to meet a strong demand for bespoke solutions within the AsiaPacific market. A dealer network of more than 150 specialised outlets, supplied by 12 global plants accounts for Yale’s strong presence in the region. “Not all users need to pay for the features required for 24-hour performance,” Chaffey says. “We believe that, in addition to our unwavering commitment to quality demonstrated over 137 years, the services around the truck are highly important to users, including parts, maintenance and fleet management designed to maximise uptime and minimise ownership issues.” High quality cylinders with hard chrome rods reduce seal wear for a longer life. The full-flow, low pressure filter on the return helps keep the hydraulic oil clean. This in turn can minimise the overall seal and pump wear, keep the control valve in good condition, and thereby lead to lower service costs. Other features of the UX series include high-strength, profiled-steel overhead guard for added protection, low step height for easy access and a wide view mast to enhance operators’ forward view field. LED lighting comes standard in every UX model, while a full suspension seat helps to reduce driver fatigue. A simple and clear display panel shows speed, power, error codes and working hours to keep operators fully informed. For more information about Hyster-Yale Asia-Pacific, contact Tony Kim at their Sydney office. Hyster-Yale Asia-Pacific 02 9795 3842 www.hyster-yale.com

2/6 Taronga Place, Mona Vale, NSW 2103 www.serpent-dove.com.au millingmachining ad.indd 1

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

4/04/2013 5:04:39 PM

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020

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. 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

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU MTIQualos_Measurement MTIQualos_Measurement 20152015 IndUpd.indd IndUpd.indd 1 1

6/10/2015 6/10/2015 8:108:10 am

E V I T A V O N N I RELIABLE

S D N A R B L A I R INDUST S

4 | Sent 13-07-20

D N A R B L A I R T S INDU Available from

www.machineryhouse.com.a

Available from

www.machineryhouse.com.a

1/2 Windsor WindsorRd, Rd, 1/2 Northmead Northmead

(07)3715 3715 2200 (07) 2200 625 Boundary 625 Boundary Rd,Rd, Coopers Plains Coopers Plains

9212 4422 (08) (08) 93739373 9999 9999 (03)(03) 9212 4422 4 Abbotts 4 Abbotts Rd, Rd, Dandenong Dandenong

11 Valentine St, 11 Valentine St, Kewdale Kewdale

04_IU_070820

(02) 9890 98909111 9111 (02)

PERTH BRISBANE MELBOURNE MELBOURNE PERTH BRISBANE

04_IU_070820

SYDNEY SYDNEY

TEST AND MEASUREMENT

RUN HOT AND COLD WITH THERMAL MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS

IDM GEARED UP FOR ESSENTIAL ONSHORE MANUFACTURING

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-

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

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

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 www.idminstruments.com.au

ECD MULTI CHANNEL CONTROLLER THE TOTAL PACKAGE 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.

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

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

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

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

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020

Your Global Automation Partner

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. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 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

Electrical Test Bench

DURST INDUSTRIES

Model TB-E600DLX

Basic Specification

CHARGING AND DIAGNOSIS EASIER DURST SOLAR CASE WITH DURST PRODUCTS Industrial high power / energy portable 12V power

Water / Dust proof / shock proof case 500Wh / 42Ah LiFeP04 Battery Maximum power point tracking (MPPT) Solar controller o Removable 12W 18V Internal Meanwhile, the Durst photovoltaic Cell load bank o capacity meter with low voltage provides aBattery constant load across batteries alarm Insert Shows Quick for controlled discharge. Large battery o 3 channel switched / fused channels Acting Alternator o systems 6 x USB ports storage require cycleBrackets testing o 3 x 12V DIN socket (cigarette lighter) to ensure the batteries perform within o 3 x 12V 2pin socket specifications. o 1 x 12V 50A Anderson output o 1 x External Solar blanket socket (4 Pin) o 1 x Charge pinfan for cooled use with The Durst Loadsocket Banks(3are dedicated Durst Lithium charger and oavailable in astorage varietycompartment of capacities, in Internal o o o

supply equipped with onboard solar panel and then provides a service record that will Durst Industries (Aust) Pty Ltd are charging for extended of with reliable off grid the leadingsystem Australian manufacturer of periods remain the vehicle until it is sold. operation Automotive Electrical Charging and Diagnostic equipment.

Both dealer and consumer benefit knowing the history of the vehicle from the time it rolls off the production line to the time it rolls into the garage, reducing warranty claims and improving customer satisfaction.

As the Australian automotive industry modernizes so does the range of Durst products. Used for transport, mining, education, logistics and even by the military. 24, 48 short and circuit 72 volt a load capacity of In addition, the unit will provide alarms under, low voltage, reverse polarity, andwith reverse is are in touch with the trend clamps anti-spike eliminating possible damage toup theto ECU an assisted start. O P E R A T Icharging. O NTheDurst 240during amps. Fuel driven engines are now where battery chemistries will continue The BJS-A38 is supplied with easy read instruction and a sturdy carry case which can be kept in your The Durst Solar Case is electric equipped with 3orindividual fused transforming into hybrid and Applications are equally as versatile, to evolve with varied applications. motor bike motor along vehicle at all times. channels (self-healing) operated independently with the powered vehicles. Durst provides for either with UPS (uninterrupted power The solar industry and useStarter of ‘battery We anticipate the Smart Personal Jump has many applications, it’s very capable of providing all electrical systems with its range of the corresponding red switch. When channel isand active the which USB comfort to all riders drivers knowing that a reinforces flat battery will not stop them getting to their walls’ is growing rapidly Further to its automotive functions, it provides a level of comfort if one if kept in your products all terrains types ofhas uses.destination. port glowsfor Blue. Eachand channel a maximum output of 15A. the importance of correct battery vehicle at all times. Being caught on the side of a road or a lonely carpark for example has its risks; All three channels can be used simultaneously if required. The maintenance and testing. As technology advances industry andthis can now be minimized with the Durst ‘Smart Personal Jump Starter’. Anderson is to located in the storage compartment and is consumers’plug access electric vehicles fused at 50A and in an always ON state. expand and affordability is withinis reach for many.

Durst BJC 40 TB-E600DLX4

DURST Auto Electrical Test Bench - Model TB-E600DLX

In fact users don’t need to look very include: ARGING far for real life examples C withHelectric vehicles now in operation with Local To Charge simply open the case and position so sunlight is governments and State Transits in - Heavy duty Jump Starters shining on the solar panel, the solar charger will only charge Sydney. the batteries when the voltage is lower than 13V.The solar - Smart battery chargers panelWe can andwhich is attached to a 4-meter lead for arebe nowremoved living at a time has moved far beyond and the basic better positioning lightwipers, harvest. An 12V external solar - Industrial battery chargers lighting and engine starts as part ofto a the PV socket blanket may be connected for increased Durst BJT 520B Durst Solar Case vehicle’s electrical systems.4Modern - Carbon Pile battery tester charging if needed, pin plug isDurst supplied to connect to are ready to help, we’re available on the phone or email and our online store is open round the vehicles now have many elements aftermarket solar blanket to make itclock. compatible with the Durst - Smart Personal Jump Starter Durst Industries provides a supplies), GPU (ground power units) and mostly computer controlled; with an ever Solar Case. comprehensive range of battery load B A T T E R Y S P E C I F I C A T I O N battery systems used in the renewables increasing list of driver / comfort aids - Automotive Test Benches To Charge using AC simply connect and power on the testers, battery(Aust) load banks and Battery Chemistry: LiFeP04 industries.o since which all operate electrically. Durst Industries Pty Ltd anbattery Australian Manufacturer… 1918 o Nominal Capacity: 42Ah equipment to suit most battery supplied Durst lithium charger to the charging 3PIN charge socket. - Test and measurement equipment Remember Durst is first in quality and design Nominal Voltage: 12.8V Durstooproducts are designed and So thatisDurst makes sure to provide chemistries across most appli-cations. Charging complete when the charger reads “END” on the Weight: 3480g Call Durst on 02 9660 1755 or view the range at www.durst.com.au manufactured in Australia to meet for a vehicle’s reliable ON electrical system is will read o Internal Resistance: < 8the m ohms - Bio-remediating parts washer display. The always case display 14.6V and 100% o Cycle Life: >2000 DoD 80% For example Durst’s Super Duty paramount at all times. needs of local and international markets. With the voltage settling to approximately 13.4V 100% shortly o Charge Voltage: 14.6V Carbon Pile Battery Load Tester are - Renewal energy solutions o Max Charge Current: 18A charging. For example many newafter vehicles are Durst can also custom build 180A to able to test battery outputs up to 12kW. o Discharge Current: o Charge Temp: 0-50 fittedthe with lithium batteries andAustralian the costManufacturer… most requirements depending ondeg.cent the Durst Industries Pty Ltd an 1918 battery When battery capacity reads 30% aUsers low since voltage alarm loads will prior to can check o Discharge Temp:BJC -20 – 60 deg.cent Durst 4000 MS Durst Industries (Aust) of replace-ment is considerable. The soon application and looks forward to finding Remember Durst is first in quality and design sound, please charge the case as soonapplications as possible. The of alarm assured its ef-ficiency as Pty Ltd to be released Durst Logging Battery new collaborative business opportunities. Durst on 02 9660 1755 or view the range at www.durst.com.au power source.be muted if will turn offCall automatically above 30% and cannot 02 9660 1755 Charger allows the vehicle VIN and active The range of Durst products line up www.durst.com.au battery charging data to be logged. This

Durst BJT

Durst Batteries

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

Durst BJC 4000 MS

Durst BJT 520B

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020

We bring colour into view! Compact pressure sensors and switches with 360Â° custom-colour status display

256 colours Individually selectable: Measurement in progress Sensor switching Process malfunction

15 cm

Compact design

Hygienic adapter system

Adjustment via smartphone

$ 547 VEGABAR 39 Clamp 1"

www.vega.com/vegabar

BESTECH

IMPROVE WELDING QUALITY WITH PROFILE SCANNING Laser Profile Scanner as a welding quality inspection system Inspection of welding quality should be done on both the insides and outsides of the welds. The ideal inspection system primarily requires sensors that are able to detect the height and width of the welded seam as well as interruption and residue clinging on to the seam. The sensors should also be capable of performing inline measurement in the production line. Non-contact laser profile scanners are popular for factory automation applications due to their high-speed, high accuracy scanning even when used in-line. The laser profile scanners detect the shape deviations and fault locations on the welded seam. It can also detect foreign contaminants such as welding wire residue left during the welding process. The laser profile scanner works based on the laser triangulation principle by projecting a laser line into the target. The diffusely reflected light is registered onto the CMOS array in the camera optical system while the controller computes the profile data.

Metal fabrication is a manufacturing process that utilises a variety of techniques to shape or join sheet metals into assembly parts, goods or end-user products such as cans, pipes, metal windows, automotive parts, bolts, screws and much more. It is used to manufacture components for application in industries such as aerospace, agricultural, automotive, construction, medical, military and defence as well as OEM. Welding is one of the most common techniques used for joining metal sheets during fabrication. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also one of the most used methods in the metal fabrication process. Advanced growth in technology has enabled the development of welding robots for calculating welding processes in advance before they are carried out. This enables the manufacturer to fully automate their welding process while maintaining the quality of the welded seam.

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

High precision sensors and scanning technology have been used and integrated in the welding robot for optimising the weld quality. However,

functions. Numerous research studies have shown a correlation between fatigue strength and weld quality.

Substandard weld quality significantly increases the risk of failures at the early stage and should be avoided. these systems are costly, which prompts manufacturers to question their need for that optimisation. The weld quality quantifies a welded jointâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ability to perform the functional requirements of the weld during the service life of the welded product. It can be durability, corrosion resistance, appearance and other mechanical

Substandard weld quality significantly increases the risk of failures at the early stage and should be avoided. On the other hand, excessive welding increases fabrication cost and does not add customer value to the product.

The controller also uses this camera image to calculate the position along the laser line in x-axis and distance in z-axis. These values are output in a twodimensional coordinate system that is fixed with respect to the sensor. The profile scanners can also be moved back and forth or used for performing measurement on traversing objects to generate 3D profiles. The inspection is carried out after the welding process while the parts are still hot. This is done as the products can be passed on for rework if errors are detected at this early stage. The tolerance limit is defined and saved in the system. The pass/fail assessment is conducted based on this saved limit. This high-speed inspection system can measure with 10kHz sampling rate to inspect 100 per cent of the parts.

Scanner integration in welding robots Robots have been widely used to automate the welding process. To achieve optimum quality of the

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020

BESTECH making it more economical to repair worn parts than replacing them with brand new ones. The steel parts on an excavator chain link wear out after approximately four years of continuous operation in harsh environments. The eroded parts should be welded to restore the chain links to working order. The surface of the defective area can be scanned with the profile scanner to obtain the 3D profile and calculate optimum welding line. Surface pretreatment is not required prior to welding due to the high quality of the scanning and high resolution of the data.

In industrial applications, pipeline maintenance is essential to ensure continuous supply of utilities and continuous operation of the process plant and machinery. Laser profile scanners can be used to automate the inspection process of the external welded seams. These are installed welded seam, robots scan the seam and calculate the optimum welding path to optimise the amount of materials used. To be technically feasible, this requires a high precision profile scanning system. The design of the laser profile scanners is also compact to enable installation into hard-to-access areas and, for high-volume OEM applications, integration into robots or machinery as well. The scanner can be easily fixed into welding robots to detect the geometry of the seam to be welded before the actual welding process begins. Once the scanning starts, the robot can calculate the number of welding passes, the position of the weld seams, the weld speed and the oscillation width. Then it automatically performs the welding process and finds the optimum welding path based on the calculated results. Some profile scanning systems are available with smart and integrated controllers in the sensor head to enable calculation of profile properties such as width, edge angle, groove, gap etc. This smart feature is essential for measurement and inspection during production of longitudinally welded

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020

directly above the seam for real-time

pipes. Manufacturers are required to know the exact edge position based on the sheet edge length and ensure that the sheet edges are aligned perfectly. The laser profile scanner also offers a non-contact, wear-free and fast measurement of these parameters to ensure they are perfectly aligned before welding starts.

Other potential industrial welding applications

monitoring. The deviation of the welded seam

Industries such as mining or applications such as pipeline maintenance may also benefit from utilising laser profile scanning systems for inspection of welded seams.

position from the ideal central position

Mining machineries such as excavators incur high capital cost,

is a simple-to-operate yet high-end

can be communicated to the inspection unit via analogue signal. Ultimately, laser profile scanning measurement system that offers high versatility and superior resistance to moisture, dirt and corrosion. Operated via PC, it has a wide range of measurement applications in industrial and factory automation. The scanners measure with high precision and accuracy with fast response times and can easily be adapted to achieve sharp, reliable measurement on various surfaces including oily, metallic and reflective bases. Bestech (03) 9540 5100 www.bestech.com.au

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

VEGA

NON-CONTACT LEVEL MEASUREMENT TECHNOLOGY SHOWDOWN When it comes to non-contact continuous level measurement, radar and ultrasonic are two of the most common technologies out there. Both are used for similar applications across industries, and both types of devices use similar principles to make a level measurement. However, each technology has varying degrees of success in different applications. Here we will compare and contrast 80 GHz radar sensors with ultrasonic transmitters for liquid and solid level measurements. Users must consider many variables when choosing a level measurement technology, and this article will discuss how each technology performs relative to several of these.

How the technologies work Radar and ultrasonic instruments operate similarly. They both face downward, emitting a signal that reflects from the product surface, and the sensor electronics use the time of flight to calculate a measurement. The type and shape of signal each technology uses is where they begin to diverge. All radars, including 80 GHz radar sensors, emit radio microwaves while ultrasonic transmitters use sound waves.

Radar Radar microwaves are electromagnetic waves, which means the signal doesn’t require a medium – it can travel in a vacuum. This is why radar signals are unaffected by process conditions like temperature and pressure. This makes radar technology a versatile level measurement technology across industries

and applications. The newest radar sensors using a higher 80 GHz frequency have a very narrow beam angle – as small as 3.6 degrees. Most of the energy from the radar signal is focused in a small area, which allows the radar to avoid internal obstructions, mixers or agitators inside the vessel. The exceptional focus of the radar beam also minimises any additional “noise” or unwanted reflections that bounce around inside the vessel.

Ultrasonic An ultrasonic sensor’s sound wave is a mechanical wave, which means it needs a medium to travel through, and most of the time that medium is the atmosphere or the air inside the vessel.

Vessel size and construction

The tank or vessel’s construction can also play a factor in which technology to choose because this can factor into how a sensor is mounted. Radar signals can penetrate non-conductive materials like polyethylene, fibreglass and glass. This allows radar sensors to measure through plastic vessels or sight glasses.

To begin choosing the right level measurement sensor, users must understand the shape, size and material of their vessel. This will provide a better understanding of the measurement required by the sensor. It can also determine how and where the sensor will be mounted to obtain an accurate, reliable level measurement.

An ultrasonic sensor would require a new process connection while the radar can simply be mounted above the vessel and make the same measurement nonintrusively.

Radar sensors have traditionally been used for longer range level measurements in bigger tanks, while ultrasonic cleaners have excelled with shorter distances. As technology has developed, however, these conventions have begun to fade.

The speed of the signal is contingent upon the environment in which its traveling. Sound waves travel at different speeds depending on the air temperature, pressure, density and gas composition. If any of these properties are changing during the process, it can result in measurement errors, which is why ultrasonic sensors are more ideal for simple level measurements in processes with little to no changing conditions.

Ultrasonic cleaners are still more accurate with exceptionally small measurements less than six inches. For most small vessels however, today’s 80 GHz radar sensors perform just as well as their ultrasonic counterparts.

Ultrasonic signals operate using frequencies ranging between 30 kHz and 240 kHz. Unlike radar, frequency is more of a function of measuring range, with low frequencies used for measuring longer distances and high frequencies used for measuring small distances.

In large tanks with longer measurement spans, both radar and ultrasonic sensors perform well. However, users should be ready for a trade-off when using ultrasonic sensors. The low frequency ultrasonic sensors used for long ranges typically require a larger opening at the top of the tank.

Some ultrasonic sensors can focus most of their signal as small as a four- or five-degree beam angle, but because of the shape of the acoustic waves, ultrasonic sensors are more likely to

ultrasonic sensors may have near zones exceeding three feet, while radar sensors enable users to measure all the way to the top of the tank.

receive unwanted reflections from within the vessel.

Process conditions Every process has its challenges to obtaining an accurate level measurement. Steady, predictable conditions are a luxury in the process industry. Changing temperatures, foam, product reflectivity, dust, condensation, build-up and noise are just a handful of potential hurdles to obtaining an accurate level measurement. It’s up to the user to find the best technology for the task at hand.

Plus, these new sensors have small antennas with correspondingly small process fittings that make them suitable for these small tanks.

Temperature Radar level sensors are immune to any changing temperatures, while ultrasonic sensors’ accuracy can vary drastically. To combat this, ultrasonic transducers come equipped with the ability to measure the temperature at the transducer. However, if the transducer temperature significantly varies from the air space near the product surface, the level measurement will be off.

All ultrasonic sensors have a near zone, or a “dead band”, which is essentially a blind spot near the sensor where it can’t make a measurement. Long-range

scanCONTROL Laser Profile Scanner Automated measurement and inspection system for welded seam • • • • • •

Compact design and integrated evaluation without PC High profile resolution for fine details High profile frequency up 10kHz Dynamic adaptation to changing surfaces Intelligent tracking to guide robots Programmable SDK via C, C++ and LabVIEW integration

Visit: www.bestech.com.au for more information

Email: enquiry@bestech.com.au

GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY LOCAL SUPPORT 34

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

Phone: (03) 9540 5100

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020

VEGA Product reflectivity The high sensitivity of VEGA Australia’s 80 GHz radar sensors allow them to measure even the most unreflective products. Liquids and materials previously unmeasurable with older radar sensors can now provide a strong enough signal to deliver an accurate, reliable level measurement. Unlike radar’s electromagnetic waves, ultrasonic’s mechanical waves reflect off of most surfaces, despite its reflective properties.

Dust, condensation and build-up Users rarely find dust, condensation and build-up in the same application, but all three have similar effects on ultrasonic sensors. Sound waves emitted from ultrasonic sensors require a medium to transmit energy from one place to another. Dust in the air presents a physical barrier for the energy transmission, which weakens the amplitude of the return signal. With condensation or build-up, the transducer diaphragm acts as the medium when it vibrates to produce a signal.

Gas composition Similar to temperature, the composition of the gas between the sensor and the liquid surface has an effect on ultrasonic sensors’ sound waves. The speed of sound varies greatly depending on the gas type, which can lead to measurement errors. Vapours from acids and solvents are especially susceptible to this, and it can greatly affect the accuracy of ultrasonic devices. Radar microwaves, on the other hand, travel at the same speed regardless of the air space, so the measurement will remain the same.

Foam Foaming is another universal setback for any non-contact level measurement technology because foam absorbs both microwaves and sound waves. Complete absorption is rare, and in those extreme instances a guided wave radar is the user’s best bet. In most applications with light foaming, an 80 GHz radar can make a measurement through the foam as if it’s not even there. Many ultrasonic manufacturers would require a standpipe for the same application.

Condensation or build-up here dampens the signal from the start. Yet some ultrasonic sensors with low frequencies are better at handling these situations because the mechanical wave vibrates the sensor face, keeping it free of water droplets or build-up. Radar sensors are unaffected by dust, condensation and build-up. Sophisticated sensitivity software in VEGA’s 80 GHz radar sensors ignores any signals returning to the sensor too quickly, removing the possibility of a false high-level resulting from condensation and most build-up. As for dust in the air, dust particles are 0.5 to 1.0 micrometres in size, much too small to affect the radar’s microwaves

with wavelengths measuring 3.5 to four millimetres. This means radar is able to continue measuring during filling and emptying cycles of the most dusty environments. This allows radar to accurately make a level measurement in any application with dust, condensation or build-up.

Noise Loud noises are common in bulk solids applications and inside silos as falling material creates a deafening environment. The loud noises create additional sound waves, and depending on an ultrasonic transmitter’s frequency, this can interfere with the sound waves being used to make a measurement. This can lead to measurement errors during filling, emptying and in noisy processes. Because radar level sensors use radio microwaves, the noise has no effect on the measurement.

Conclusion In most level measurement applications, users would be wise to choose an 80 GHz radar over an ultrasonic transmitter. This doesn’t mean ultrasonic sensors are obsolete by any means. Ultrasonic devices are a cost-effective, non-contact means of level measurement, but they’re not as reliable or accurate in changing or difficult environments. Most industries don’t have the luxury of stationary product in a stable environment, which is why an 80 GHz radar sensor is the right instrument for the job more often than not. VEGA Australia Pty Ltd 1800 817 135 www.vega.com/au

TEMPERATURE CALIBRATION GOES MOBILE IKM Instrutek has proudly launched its brand new TC65 portable dry block temperature calibrator. The TC65, available now from AMS Instrumentation & Calibration, features a touch display and a calibration interval up to three years. The unit is compact and robustly designed for marine, industrial and laboratory use, approved according to DNVGL-CG-0339:2019 (parts of) to ensure users are able to calibrate a vast range of temperature sensors, thermometers and temperature switches/

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020

thermostats. One of the important goals for IKM during development was to meet the market requirements to save cost by extending the calibration interval. With a contemporary design, the TC65 is developed to meet the toughest environmental demands. The TC65 is easy to use and read thanks to its brand new display. A dry block insert with various diameters ensures thermal contact to the sensor being tested. Simply place the sensor to

be calibrated in the device and set the temperature. When stabilisation occurs, read the true temperature from the calibrator and re-calibrate the sensor or system accordingly.The dry block principle excludes the use of oil or other liquids. AMS Instrumentation & Calibration 03 9017 8225 www.ams-ic.com.au

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

AUTOMATION COLIN WELLS - MANAGING DIRECTOR, ROBOTIC AUTOMATION PTY LTD

NOT ALL AUTOMATION SYSTEMS ARE CREATED EQUAL This article isn’t all about how to ensure your investment in automation is the best value for money today, but rather about ensuring your investment in technology is flexible enough to create viable options for your business well into the future.

- Flexible and intelligent high-tech robot gripper technology - An embedded WMS system that can work hand-in-hand with the above

Progress has changed gears and finally gone up a notch or two in the world of flexible automation opportunities.

Over 25 years ago, if you invested in technology for your plant it most likely would have involved a lot of dedicated and inflexible equipment. Since the introduction of flexible automation options such as robots, many of these dedicated solutions have been methodically replaced with robot-based solutions. However, with the current level of technology now available, it is possible to create solutions that offer the end user more future options with the ability to significantly modify the system to meet their ever-changing needs.

industrial applications. Palletising is just one example but a very relevant one to our ANZ market. ANZ automation solutions have always been known internationally for innovation and held in high regard.

A case in point would be a typical high-speed palletiser. A quarter of a century ago, this would have been a dedicated layer machine that was complex, limited, high in maintenance, full of single points of failure and almost impossible to make significant changes to.

Finally, we can capitalise on our hard-won knowhow and employ this technology to even up the game a little in our favour.

For the past 25 years or so robotics has pretty much taken over this market, but these systems were often surrounded and ‘hemmed in’ by conventional out-of-date conveyor technology (which is in its own right inflexible and spacious). In my opinion, this is what has impeded the development of flexible palletising systems for at least the last 10 years and has held them back.

A word of caution… Companies should not confuse “waiting for the latest solution” with understanding the need to acquire a truly flexible automation solution (as this is now a ‘must-have’). COVID-19 has taught us that hard lesson, and we would all be well advised to heed the learnings.

As a result, there has been a definite general improvement in the outcome over the older dedicated solutions. Some of these early robotic solutions have proved themselves adaptable enough over 25 years, clocking up millions of reliable pallet outputs.

In my last article, ‘Timely Automation Takes Time’, we demonstrated how such systems can take a year from start to completion. This needs to be kept in mind as it’s often just not possible to shorten the process due to the complexity and scale of each unique system.

Robotic Automation is currently in the process of replacing one such system which is “25 years and not out” (an impressive innings in itself) and is still performing as this article goes to print. This is a testament to an organisation embracing the right technology way back in the mid-90s, which has served them very well.

Just imagine how much costs the last generation of robotic palletisers have saved for thousands of companies within ANZ over the past 25 years or so. Many dived in as they could see it was a logical step forward and have not regretted it.

However, these early robotic-based solutions have difficulties taking advantage of future opportunities and are not always easily adaptable to meet current needs for the reasons mentioned above. In addition, the ANZ market is becoming more complex.

Additional benefits can be expected from the new generation of intelligent automation systems – and is there for the taking – but it is surely looking like the right time for end users to engage.

For example, while our batch sizes are still small on a Global level, the SKU diversity due to our location in the world is steadily increasing. Typical examples of modern AGVs at work

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

- The embedding of AGVs with robots creates the flexibility required

The previous palletising example applies to a lot of

By way of explanation…

- Easy-to-use AGVs running on a Windows-based platform

Now you have a solution that is truly flexible. This new generation of automation can be edited to meet future needs and is bristling with Industry 4.0 features, thus providing a myriad of reporting capabilities at your fingertips.

This will save costs for your company many times over and avoid a considerable amount of angst moving forward.

So what’s the answer?

Progress has changed gears and finally gone up a notch or two in the world of flexible automation opportunities. For example, if you add into the recipe the following elements for a typical high-speed palletiser such as:

Robotic Automation 1300 552 333 www.ragroup.com.au AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020

THE FUTURE OF INTELLIGENT PALLETISING IS NOW HERE

THE MOTOPAL MODULAR PALLETISER SYSTEM KEY BENEFITS • Minimal system footprint using ‘Open Architecture’ • Patented High Speed Gripper for RSC and Shelf Ready Cartons • Layout flexibility using Imbedded RA-GVs • The Dynamic Equilibrium Function eliminates the need for accumulation • Robots & Conveyor System all Controlled by preferred PLC • Client friendly RA-GVs using Windows • Powerful WMS to control ASRS All of the above provide a Scalable, Flexible and Economic solution

MOTOPAL-780 x 4

RA are the exclusive partner of MOTOMAN & MAX AGV in ANZ

Your trusted solutions partner, with over 3000+ installations and more than 30 years of expertise.

1300 552 333

sales@ragroup.com.au

www.ragroup.com.au

SEE VIDEO

AUSTRALIAN MADE

to enjoy improved cost savings, productivity and profitability. Gain a competitive advantage – whilst helping to save the environment.

Sponsored by

AU – 1800 763 862 or AUSales@smcanz.com NZ – 0800 1320 762 or NZSales@smcanz.com

www.smcanz.com Global Leader in Automation and Pneumatics SMC Corporation Australia | New Zealand Group

AUSSIES LOOK TO GREEN AND GOLD KANGAROO New research by Roy Morgan has revealed trust in the iconic green-and-gold Australian Made kangaroo logo is at an all-time high. A whopping 92 per cent of Australians are confident products displaying the logo are made in Australia, up from 88 per cent last year. Recognition of the Australian Made icon is also at an apex, with 99 per cent of Australians familiar with the ‘roo. The majority of Aussies also associate the logo with the support of local jobs and employment opportunities, safe and highquality products, sustainability and the use of ethical labour. According to Roy Morgan CEO Michele Levine, the research highlights the importance of the logo for both businesses and consumers.

products topping the list.

“The Australian Made logo enjoys extraordinary awareness among Australians and increasingly provides consumers with confidence that products displaying the logo are grown or made in Australia,” she says.

“Purchasing Australian Made products is seen as important by consumers as products are perceived to be of better quality, provide support for local businesses and communities, and create jobs in general,” Levine says.

“At a deeper level, products displaying the logo are also associated with such important things as ‘Supporting local jobs and employment’, ‘safety’, ‘high quality’ and ‘using ethical labour’. Clearly, this is of value to the businesses displaying the logo.”

“Indeed, the research shows the vast majority of Australians reported they would have a more favourable opinion of businesses who partnered with Australian Made and would be more likely to engage with and purchase from those businesses.”

Preference for Australian Made products in a wide range of categories also remains strong, with food & beverages, agricultural & gardening products, children & baby care products, building & renovation materials, pet care products and household cleaning & laundry

The research also found that when respondents were presented with a selection of Australian country of origin marks and asked which one provided the most confidence a product is genuinely of Australian origin, 84 per cent of consumers chose the Australian Made logo.

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

Australian Made chief executive Ben Lazzaro says it’s no surprise, given the logo is underpinned by a third-party accreditation system ensuring products certified with the logo are ‘genuinely Australian’. “The famous Australian Made logo provides a solution for both consumers and businesses – it is the most effective way to identify genuine Aussie products,” Lazzaro says. “As Australia’s only registered country of origin certification trademark, the Australian Made logo is the true mark of Aussie authenticity.” Monthly applications for the Australian Made logo have increased 400 per cent since January, with more and more Aussie makers looking to showcase their Aussie credentials.

“Roy Morgan’s research shows the demand for authentic Australian products is continuing to grow. As a result, the Australian Made claim has never been more powerful,” Lazzaro says. “Consumers know when they buy Australian, they are getting products made to some of the highest manufacturing standards and produced in our clean, green environment. The logo also makes a compelling statement about generating local jobs and economic activity.” Over 3,000 businesses are registered to use the Australian Made logo on more than 20,000 products sold here and around the world. For Australia’s biggest online directory of genuine Aussie products, visit the Australian Made website.

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020

AUSTRALIAN MADE

NINE IN 10 AUSTRALIANS BELIEVE IN LOCAL MANUFACTURING

Nine out of 10 Australians believe Australia should produce more products locally as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to new consumer research by Roy Morgan. The study found 89 per cent of Australians believe manufacturing should be re-shored. Reliance on other countries topped the list of key motivations (38 per cent), followed by the creation of jobs (26 per cent), supporting Australian businesses and industry (26 per cent), as a safeguard for vulnerable international supply chains (20 per cent), and to strengthen Australia’s economy (16 per cent).

ways, not least of which is our shopping behaviour,” says Roy Morgan CEO Michele Levine. “More Australians are now organising delivery of products; doing online research prior to making a purchase; shopping online, both in stores they would usually visit and different stores.”

“Australia’s over-reliance on imported products has been highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic,” says Australian Made chief executive Ben Lazzaro. “This research indicates that Australians are placing priority on manufacturing selfsufficiency and job creation along with a renewed appetite to address the imbalance between locally made and imported products to ensure Australia’s long-term prosperity.”

The average session duration also increases by 29 per cent, with more and more Australians looking for authentic Aussie products. Total audience growth across all Australian Made’s social channels was up 467 per cent, with engagements almost tripling.

The coronavirus pandemic has also brought into sharp focus the many benefits of buying Australian Made, Lazzaro says, as Australians navigate and adapt to a dramatically changed way of living.

The renewed focus on buying Australianmade has also led to more Australians to check labelling, with 43 per cent of Australians now more likely to look for country of origin labels on products.

“Not only do our local makers produce products made to some of the highest quality and safety standards in the world, they also create economic activity and employment opportunities.”

“As Australia’s only registered country of origin certification trademark, the Australian Made logo is the true mark of Aussie authenticity,” Lazzaro says.

Since the pandemic, more than half of Australians (52 per cent) say they now have an even higher preference for Australianmade products. “The impact of COVID-19 on Australians is unprecedented in so many

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020

novaaon! in e d a m n a li a tr s u Support A novaaon! in e d a m n a li a tr s u Support A

And critically, she says, since COVID-19 Australians have an ever-greater preference for Australian Made products. The research found that since the start of the pandemic, 37 per cent of Australians are conducting more research online prior to purchasing products. Data from Australian Made’s website supports this finding, with traffic more than doubling in April to June compared to the same period prior.

The preference for Australian-made products was already high before the pandemic, with Roy Morgan research in January finding 88 per cent of Australians were more likely to buy products made in Australia.

e Soluuons g ra to S l ia tr s u d BAC Modern In e Soluuons g ra to S l ia tr s u d BAC Modern In

“For more than 30 years, the logo has helped thousands of brands communicate their Australian credentials to consumers, businesses and all levels of government. It does this instantly and clearly, making it a powerful sales and marketing asset for authentic Aussie brands, and a helpful shopping aid for consumers around the globe.” For Australia’s biggest online directory of genuine Aussie products, visit the Australian Made website.

site survey! e e fr a e g n a r r Call us now to a ange a free site survey! rr Call us now to a

BAC SYSTEMS PTY LIMITED 193-195 Power PTY Street Glendenning NSW 2761 BAC SYSTEMS LIMITED Phone: 9832 2777Glendenning Fax: (02) 9832NSW 38992761 193-195(02) Power Street

Order latest Phone:now (02) the 9832 2777BAC Fax:catalogue (02) 9832 online! 3899 www.bacsystems.com.au Order now the latest BAC catalogue online!

www.bacsystems.com.au INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

www.smcanz.com AUSTRALIAN MADE

NZ – 0800 1320 762 or NZSales@smcanz.com

Sponsored by Global Leader in Automation and Pneumatics

HOME GROWN GYROSCOPES TO IMPROVE SAFETY SMC Corporation Australia | New Zealand Group

According to Shaw, the landmark partnership will deliver world-class technology and showcase the amazing opportunities for a new home-grown, hightech manufacturing industry in Australia. Used to measure orientation and rotational motion, modern gyroscopes can be built with such sensitivity they are accurate to the millimetre and can detect the Earth’s rotation.

A new $8.7 million project will see Australian researchers and industry partners come together to design and manufacture the world’s most precise, compact and cost-effective gyroscope. The navigation and safety of autonomous cars is reliant on ultra highperformance gyroscopes, which can also enhance the precision of drones and correct the course of high-speed satellites. While accurate positioning is a critical function in industries such as transport, infrastructure and space, current technical solutions are expensive, large or energy hungry. The new project will be led by navigation system manufacturer Advanced Navigation, and features RMIT University, the Australian National University (ANU) as research partners along with commercial partner Corridor Insights. It’s hoped the result will cut the cost of ultra highperformance gyroscopes by 85 per cent. The project has been supported through a $2.8 million Cooperative Research Centre Projects (CRC-P) grant

Expertise - Passion - Automation

to Advanced Navigation, announced by Federal Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews. The CRC-P grant enables an $8.7 million total project investment (cash and in-kind) to deliver technology that shrinks both cost and size to allow new commercial applications that have previously never been possible. Chris Shaw, CEO of Advanced Navigation, says the project will take groundbreaking theoretical research through to commercialisation, demonstrating Australia’s capability across the advanced manufacturing pipeline. “This project will establish Australia has a leading manufacturer of highperformance, cost-effective navigation solutions,” he says. “Collaborating with some of our nation’s top researchers, we will be exploring the complete manufacturing pipeline – from basic microchip components, sophisticated signal processing, system integration and realworld application.”

However, the size and cost remain the biggest challenges for wider commercial use; the price of one high-performance unit has remained about $US20,000 for a decade, while standard devices are still too bulky for easy integration into many potential applications. To increase cost-effectiveness and reduce size, the new project brings together leading-edge optical physicals from ANU with innovative photonic chips developed at RMIT. A high-performance gyroscope contains about 1km of optical fibres wound around a spool. Laser beams inside the fibres are split in two and sent in opposite directions. By measuring where the light reconnects and looking at the differences in how long it takes for the light beams to travel, the gyroscope can determine position and movement with pinpoint precision. Researchers at ANU have been adapting an optical measurement technique known as digital interferometry that can detect the tiniest of changes between the two light waves, isolating the gyroscope signal from background noise. Distinguished Professor Arnan Mitchell, leader of RMIT’s Integrated Photonics and Applications Centre

(InPAC) says the equipment needed to detect those changes would normally take up a large bench in a laboratory. “The clever signal processing developed at ANU allows us to tell apart tiny signals from noise, and our photonic chip technology enables all that functionality to fit on a chip the size of a fingernail.” The photonic chips will be developed by the InPAC team at RMIT, which has leading-edge facilities for designing and printing microchips filled with light. “By compressing the light detection technology onto a photonic chip we can shrink ultra high-performance gyroscopes from the size of a bread box to the size of a coffee cup,” Mitchell says. ANU photonics researcher Associate Professor Jong Chow says the miniscule light inconsistencies detected through digital interferometry could have mammoth flow-on effects. “Separating a tiny blip of noise from an actual signal can be the difference between a satellite avoiding a meteorite or crashing into it, or an automated car swerving to prevent a collision,” Chow says. The global market for high performance gyroscopes in the fields of autonomous infrastructure inspection or autonomous vehicle navigation is expected to reach $US13.7 billion by 2024. Commercial partner Corridor Insights, which develops automated hardware and software solutions that enable road, rail or energy networks to automate inspections and predict failures, will pilot and test the new gyroscopes for defect detection and management of rail networks in Australia.

In good times and bad, SMC is here to support you.

Let our team of engineers assist you with remote support for technical assistance. Local manufacturing. Local expertise. Contact us for assistance at virtualsupport@smcanz.com.

SMC – more than pneumatics 40

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020

or to request an appointment:

mcanz.com

smcanz.com

AUSTRALIAN MADE

Sponsored by Global Leader in Automation and Pneumatics

FURNITURE MANUFACTURERS JOIN AUSSIE MADE CAMPAIGN

alia | New Zealand Group

The Australian Cabinet and Furniture Association (ACFA) has joined the Australian Made Campaign (AMCL) as a Campaign Associate. The move supports the continued growth of Australia’s local furnishings and furniture manufacturing sector. ACFA, one of Australia’s primary industry associations for furnishing, cabinetmaking and joinery manufacturers, promotes the viewpoints and interests of its members. It’s also a repository of workplace relations resources, training and innovations to help businesses stay relevant in a competitive market. The partnership between ACFA and AMCL comes at a time when calls for a return to local manufacturing are growing ever louder. With more and more Australians preferencing Australian Made products, Australian Made chief executive Ben Lazzaro says it’s a great time for ACFA to get on board.

accreditation system ensures products that carry the logo are certified as ‘authentically Australian.’

products displaying the iconic green and gold kangaroo logo have been manufactured or grown within Australia.

Roy Morgan research shows the majority (60 per cent) of Australians prefer to buy Australian made furniture and home furnishings. A further 88 per cent of Australians are confident that

Lazzaro says AMCL is thrilled to partner with ACFA. “In these times of global competition, it’s essential that we foster

a local manufacturing environment that encourages and assists manufacturers to innovate and build on their success and provides pathways to new markets.” ACFA www.acfa.net.au

AUSTRALIAN

MADE

“Australian furnishings and furniture manufacturers are known for their leading design skills, craftsmanship and quality production. The demand for these authentic Aussie products is growing continuously,” he says. “When you buy Australian Made products, you know what you’re getting – products made to the highest of manufacturing and safety standards. At the same time, you’re helping to support the local industry.” ACFA chief executive officer Dean Brakell says that as an industry organisation, its clear mandate is to build and promote a stronger Australian cabinet and furniture industry. “This exciting partnership will deliver ACFA members opportunities to promote their products and grow their local and export markets,” he says. “Our local manufacturers are world leaders, providing superior products and services to local and international customers.” Australian Made looks forward to supporting ACFA and its members with improved access to Australia’s most recognised, trusted and widely used country of origin symbol – the Australian Made logo. The third-party

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020

Series 2005 is the leading brand of 19” rack mount enclosure for data and communications installations, with a huge range of sizes. MFB have the right cabinet for your needs.

When you choose Australian made, you’re choosing more than quality and reliability, you’re choosing peace of mind.

DESIGNERS & MANUFACTURERS OF 19” RACK SYSTEMS

MFB’s range of innovative racking solutions is proudly made onshore, to ensure quality and consistency above all others. Backed by constant development, unsurpassed customer support and expedited delivery. MFB proves a solid project partner whatever your requirements. Australian made, makes Australia. With a solid history of over 50 years of supplying innovative, off-the-shelf and custom built racking systems, you can rely on MFB to ensure when you buy Australian, you’re investing and supporting Australian industry.

AUSTRALIAN MADE MAKES AUSTRALIA

www.mfb.com.au

VIC (03) 9801 1044 / sales@mfb.com.au

NSW (02) 9749 1922 / sydney@mfb.com.au

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

www.smcanz.com AUSTRALIAN MADE

VICTORIAN MANUFACTURER MASKS UP

The production of millions of medicalgrade face masks for the Australian and international markets has begun at a new, state-of-the-art factory at Campbellfield. Privately owned Melbourne company Softmed fast-tracked its new production line to meet the needs of the Victorian population after parts of the state reentered lockdown due to a second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. “This is an incredibly exciting time,” says Softmed general manager Sergiy Tsimidanov. “We are able to produce millions of high-quality, medical grade face masks and other PPE at a time people need reassurance that they will be wearing a high-quality product.” The factory will begin by producing a minimum of 180 million three-ply surgical masks and 60 million P2/N95 standard respirators a year, supplying to the Australian market as well as the USA, Europe and the Middle East. Softmed is committeed to delivering as much of the PPE supply chain as possible from Australian-made product and raw materials. It will allow the company to produce not only masks and respirators but Australian-made gowns, shoe covers, hats, sheets and other single-use PPE products to meet the needs of the medical sector. Softmed is also commissioning a high-tech testing lab to quality-assure all products. The lab is currently undergoing NATA certification. And in a boost to the local economy, the factory will employ up to 70 people when it hits full capacity later this year. “This factory is absolutely state of the art and we have been working tirelessly over the apst few weeks to make it a

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

NZ – 0800 1320 762 or NZSales@smcanz.com

Sponsored by Global Leader in Automation and Pneumatics

SEMMA TEAMS WITH AUSTRALIAN MADE SMC Corporation Australia | New Zealand Group

reality,” Tsimidanov says. “What should have taken a year, we’ve done in a matter of months. Anyone wearing a Softmed mask can be confident that they have a produc that has been designed to the required standards in Australia.” Softmed is a privately-owned company whose two partners have deep experience in logistics and procurement of health products. Before opening the factory, Softmed used its international expertise to bring millions of face masks into the country to help meet demand. “Softmed has been delivering face masks and respirators for use by Chemist Warehouse customers needing protection since the very beginning of this pandemic,” says Chemist Warehouse director of retail Mario Tascone. At the height of global COVID-19 export restrictions, Softmed was the only company to obtain a licence to export raw materials and PPE to Australia from Brazil. It was also able to secure PPE products from international suppliers, chartering foreign cargo flights to maintain supply for all Australians. “Knowing Softmed will be manufacturing in Australia and controlling almost the entire supply chain is very reassuring,” Tascone says. “The company is implementing the highest standards of manufacturing to their masks, which means every Australian can have confidence both in the supply and quality of Softmed masks.” With the advent of Softmed’s Campbellfield complex, Australia’s PPE supply chain will be further strengthened and local product guaranteed.

The South East Melbourne Manufacturers Alliance (SEMMA) has joined the Australian Made Campaign (AMCL) as a campaign associate to support the continued growth of local manufacturing in Australia. One of Australia’s peak independent industry groups, SEMMA represents over 200 leading manufacturers in Melbourne’s South East. Through the promotion of its members’ capability and potential, SEMMA plays a critical role in keeping the region’s manufacturing sector vibrant and sustainable. The partnership supports the continued growth of local manufacturing on the global stage, says Australian Made chief executive Ben Lazzaro. “These Australian manufacturers produce some of the best products in the world, celebrated both here and overseas. Melbourne’s South East produces everything from yoghurt to trains to buses, bolts and everything in between,” he says. “When you buy Australian Made products, you know what you’re getting – products made to the highest of safety and manufacturing standards. At the same time, you are supporting Australian industry.” Melbourne’s South East is one of Australia’s most dynamic manufacturing

regions contributing to almost half of Victoria’s manufactured products, so says SEMMA. “Australian local manufacturers are exactly that, local,” says SEMMA CEO Vonda Fenwick. “They use local suppliers and create local jobs. We proactively represent our local manufacturers on matters of importance to the industry and the region, and are excited to partner with Australian Made.” Lazzaro says it’s crucial to nurture Australian manufacturing, and looks forward to supporting SEMMA and its members with improved access to Australia’s most recognised, trusted and widely used country of origin symbol – the Australian Made logo. “It’s essential that we foster a manufacturing environment that encourages and assists manufacturers to innovate and build on their success, as well as providing pathways to new markets,” he says. “The result is a healthy manufacturing sector, job creation and better access to markets.” SEMMA www.semma.com.au

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020

Free 3 Mode 240v Led Lighting

Overhead Shelf

Heavy Duty Pegboard

Vice Plates Under Each Corner 3mm Folded Steel Top with 1.5mm Stainless Steel Cover

7 Drawers on 125kg Capacity Ball Bearing Drawer Runners

Extra Large Lockable Cabinet

Adjustable Self-Levelling Feet

$4,433

DIMENSIONS: (L) 2400mm x (D) 760mm x (H) 950mm SAFE WORKLOAD: 1500kg AVAILABLE IN:

Excluding Delivery WB2-PB7XXL

WORKSTATIONS & WORKBENCHES

X SERIES

WB2-PB6XXL+POWER

$5,159

X SERIES

S SERIES

$3,718

$4,070

$1,606

WB1-PB6+POWER

WB2-10D

WB2-SRB

CHECK OUT OUR EXTENSIVE RANGE AND BUY AT

WORKBENCHWAREHOUSE.COM.AU

BENCHES DELIVERED AUSTRALIA WIDE FROM: Melbourne Metro - $88 Sydney Metro - $187

Brisbane Metro - $242 Gold Coast Metro - $242

Adelaide Metro - $176 Perth Metro - $264

LOGI-TECH

LOGI-TECH PRESENTS A NEW DAY FOR MANUFACTURING FLOORS

Digital Immunity Protect Revolutionizing Cyber-Threat Protection

Why don’t manufacturing floors upgrade their systems? If only it were that easy.

Even a small amount of downtime could halt production entirely and lead to a plant shutdown and lost revenue.

Unlike the enterprise environment where IT security teams can regularly and automatically roll out patches or system upgrades in ways that induce only minimal disruption to operations, the operational technology (OT) world is not cut from the same cloth.

Then situation presents teams with three choices: shut down production lines for extended outages to upgrade legacy systems, continue with emergency patching processes if the systems are patchable, or don’t apply patches and remain vulnerable.

For starters, patch installation and required reboots must be carefully planned so as not to cause additional downtime in systems such as HumanMachine Interface (HMI), Data Historians, Operator Workstations and Engineering Workstations (although these are Windows-based and are affected by the same vulnerabilities as their IT counterparts). Also, every single patch or firmware update needs to be checked for compatibility with vendor applications and libraries, and in some industries, OT engineers have established procedures for patch testing, rollout, rollback and audit. Every configuration change or patch in OT introduces risk to the manufacturing process and related devices. These risks can produce very costly downtime.

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

free up companies and OT engineers from recurring patching processes and continued future risk.

Enter Digital Immunity PROTECT What if your OT security engineers could avoid the need to deploy emergency patching? What if you could prevent cyberattacks and sustain

The DI PROTECT solution stops bad or untrusted processes from executing while protecting the continuous operation of good processes. In any case, businesses are faced with the prospect of a tremendous financial risk due to unplanned downtime while also remaining vulnerable to costly cyberattacks. Upgrading legacy systems does not

your manufacturing operations without upgrading or impacting performance of your legacy systems?

Digital Immunity PROTECT – the only bioinformatic-based endpoint

protection that uses a system’s own DNA to protect runtime memory and prevent cyberattacks and exploits – is the answer to your needs. DI PROTECT will prevent inmemory, run-time insertion of foreign or malicious code using BlueKeep, DejaBlue and many other known and unknown vulnerabilities. Nobody else in the industry provides in-memory, run-time protection through a bioinformatic approach to secure both the Operating System (OS) and related applications meeting the unique requirements for OT environments. Rather than leveraging machine learning, AI and detection-based technologies to counter cyberattacks at the endpoint – as is the industry norm. DI PROTECT “hardens” the trusted OS and associated applications to not only shield OT environments from polymorphic attacks, file-less attacks and zero-day attacks, but also deliver the benefits of reduced downtime, defer patching, thus increasing revenue. For example, DI PROTECT would have helped companies avert the 2017 NotPetya disaster, which crippled many

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020

LOGI-TECH manufacturing operations across the globe with damages totalling more than US$10 billion.

representation of every operating system and application executable file – a DNA Map.

or untrusted processes from executing while protecting the continuous operation of good processes.

NotPetya, propelled by a tandem of hacker exploits – EternalBlue and custom Mimikatz – was designed to exploit vulnerable IT and OT environments with modern and legacy systems.

The DNA Maps are stored in the DI Map Manager and published to DI Sensors on protected endpoints.

Furthermore, DI’s Control Centre empowers security teams with real-time actionable alerts and forensic artefacts in context.

Renowned pharmaceutical company Pfizer recently selected DI after assessing the leading endpoint protection companies against Pfizer’s OT requirements.

Of special note, DI PROTECT does not require any prior knowledge of any exploit or vulnerability, instead focusing on hardening the OS and applications.

As part of the global partnership, DI will help safeguard critical systems and applications in all of Pfizer’s manufacturing plants spread across 22 countries. Recently, DI and leadership at Pfizer conducted a joint webinar to promote the need for a new approach towards cybersecurity.

Although Microsoft had released a patch for EternalBlue, the infusion of custom Mimikatz in the attack left many companies helpless. With DI PROTECT installed, NotPetya would have been prevented from inserting the ransomware payload into memory, stopping the attack with no disruption to operations.

How the technology works DI PROTECT’s bioinformatic approach leverages a DNA Map as the basis of protection. By examining the sequence of invariants in the trusted binary code, DI’s patented Digital DNA Mapping technology creates an alternate digital

The DI Sensor deploys without a reboot, runs on the protected endpoint in the kernel (Ring 0) and continuously verifies the integrity of executing code, in-memory, at run-time by comparing executing code with the appropriate DNA Maps.

DI’s unique approach is vastly different from other endpoint cybersecurity solutions that rely on big data, machine learning, AI and behavioural techniques to “determine is something is bad in the environment.”

If any foreign or malicious code attempts to execute, the DI Sensor enforces configurable protection and/or notification policies.

DI’s pioneering real-time bioinformatic cybersecurity solution is of significant value for OT teams challenged with emergency patching. DI PROTECT supports legacy and modern versions of Windows, including embedded, and delivers a protective layer on unpatched and unpatchable systems, thereby eliminating the need for clients to upgrade their legacy systems in exigency.

The DI Sensor plays multiple roles: it protects the system with a nominal load and latency (less than one per cent CPU) and captures malicious code, enabling organisations to analyse the malware and foreign code. The DI PROTECT solution stops bad

The Pfizer validation

The bottom line Ultimately, Digital Immunity’s unparalleled protection capability stands alone in a crowded industry of look-alikes. DI PROTECT ensures production no longer takes a backseat to cybersecurity. Logi-Tech 08 8152 4050 logitech.com.au

Quantified Cybersecurity Threats to OT 35,000+ esimated number of computers damaged - CIO, 2013

32,000 computers damaged - CNN, 2013

$10B in damages - ApexTech, 2017 globally

$15M estimated cost of Sony Pictures hack - TechTimes, 2014

- Shamoon

- Dark Seoul

- Killdisk/Industroyer

- Narilam

- Destover

- Shamoon 2

- Maya

- Targeted hacks

- Wiper

- Killdisk

- Stuxnet

- BlackEnergy

$4B in damages globally - CBS News, 2017

$300M in damages globally - The Register, 2017

up to $5.8M ransom fee per attack - ZDNET, 2019

- NotPetya

- GandCrab

- MegaCortex v.2

- Wannacry

- Triton/Trisis

- LockerGoga

- SamSam

- Industroyer

- Sodinokibi

- OlympicDestroyer

- GandCrab

- KillDisk

- Duqu

$56,577 Avg daily cost per attack - ISMG, 2019

- iEncrypt

2010-12

2013-15

Natanz: - 1,000 fuel centrifuges destroyed in Stuxnet a8ack on Iran’s Uranium enrichment plant - BBC, 2013 Aramco - 35K computers wiped or totally destroyed by Shamoon a8ack eﬀec0ng opera0ons of its middle east oil reﬁnery - CNN, 2015

2016

2017

Dark Seoul - 32K computers aﬀected by a coordinated a8ack on several banks and media companies in Seoul by hack0vist group Lazarus - CNN, 2013

Ukrenergo - 225K Kiev customers without power in December cold winter a5er Industroyer a8ack - Reuters, 2017

Bowman Avenue Dam - Hackers would have caused $80 million of damage had they opened the ﬂood gates a5er successfully accessing SCADA.

Fiat Chrysler - 1.4M vehicles recalled due to a vulnerability that allowed remote control of Jeep Cherokee’s transmission, radio, air condi0oning and other systems

- Newsweek, 2019

- The Guardian, 2015

2019

Merck & Co -$1.3B in remedia0on 0me, lost sales & produc0vity loss due to NotPetya a8ack - Bloomberg, 2019

Tasnee - $undisclosed revenue loss due to Triton a8ack which disrupted Saudi oil reﬁnery - ZDNET, 2017

Norsk Hydro -$40M+ revenue & produc0on loss due to blocked systems - ZDNET, 2019 a5er LockerGoga a8ack

Maersk - $300M in damages & business disrup0on due to NotPetya - Bloomberg, 2017

SAIPEM - 500 Saipem computers impacted a5er Shamoon 3 a8ack.

ASCO - 71% of workers on 1 wk paid leave a5er Sodinokibi a8ack - ZDNET, 2019

Mondelez - $188M in damages, lost sales & compromized data a5er NotPetya a8ack - Financial Times, 2018 Reckitt Benckiser - $117M in lost sales, compromized data and damaged a5er NotPetya a8ack - The Guardian, 2017

sales@logitech.com.au

08 8152 4050

sales@logitech.com.au

08 8152 4050

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020

2018

TSMC - $255M in lost revenue & down0me at semiconductor Plant a5er Wannacry a8ack - Spiceworks, 2018

- Reuters, 2018

Aebi Schmidt - Numerous networked systems at Aebi Schmidt were paralyzed globally - SC Magazine, 2019 Arizona Beverages - lost millions of dollars a day due to targeted ransomware a8ack (iEncrypt)

logitech.com.au

- TechCrunch, 2019

logitech.com.au INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

EDITORIAL

SUCCESS BUILT ON COLLABORATION In an industry first, Australian machine builder HMPS has entered into a partnership with SMC Corporation Australia New Zealand to design and custom fit a new pouch unloader cell. Pouches have enjoyed an increase in popularity in recent years as a flexible packaging option. Using a vacuum system remains the most reliable and trusted solution to ensure pouches are packed correctly. Designed for an export customer in Thailand for use in unloading pouches of pet food from trays, HMPS and SMC’s pouch unloader cell offers high speed on a small footprint. It’s the first machine where a robot is retrofitted with a vacuum head for offloading pouches of pet food from a retort. The brief was a method that was “better, faster and more efficient” than existing methods, a challenge HMPS embraced with relish. “This customer has an old compressor in their factory and requested a solution that is more energy-efficient in terms of compressed air,” says HMPS project engineer Sergio Palacio. “Compressors can be expensive to replace; our customer wanted to automate their line without causing unnecessary downtime, additional costs or drastic changes to the rest of the plant.” Based on this brief, HMPS looked to the modern vacuum technology produced and supplied by SMC to help curb customer concerns. The two prominent companies have worked together for years; the perfect relationship to tackle a project that Palacio says required out-of-the-box thinking and close collaboration. “We chose SMC’s vacuum products because of their reduced air consumption while offering continuous vacuum where required,” he says. “We looked to deliver a more efficient and powerful solution with a specially designed and engineered vacuum head.” Jason Sutton, SMC’s area sales engineer, says their design departments worked together to deliver an innovative solution. “From SMC’s side, the design was led by our engineering department in New Zealand headed up by Sergey

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

Vetrov, while I oversaw the project on the ground together with the HMPS team.” Combined, the team was proactive, detail oriented and invested in the project. “This was one of many projects where SMC worked with OEM to develop a special ‘fit to purpose’ complete solution,” Palacio says. Preliminary proof-of-concept tests with actual pet food products used selected SMC standard vacuum components to determine the best course of action. Early success led to the delivery of a custom solution.

consumption.

“During the final stage we designed and delivered a bespoke solution with direct interface to the robotic arm as per HMPS’s specification,” Palacio says.

“Because there’s no chamber, the vacuum response time is immediate, and no air is delivered to a vacuum cup unless it’s in use,” he says.

While the specially engineered vacuum head used in this application is made up of standard SMC vacuum products, this solution has been engineered into a unique multifunctional and energy efficient vacuum design.

“Here, as soon as the air shuts off, atmospheric pressure enters and the multi bellow pads expand like a spring to assist with the easing of pressure and tension, releasing the product immediately.”

“We needed to increase the speed of the application while factoring in energy savings to help reduce pressure on the compressor,” Palacio says. For this specific application, SMC selected the ZH vacuum ejectors and ZP vacuum cups, Sutton says, from its comprehensive vacuum range. “The pouches are wet with traces of chemicals and as such, we used the ZH series to help take away any water and chemicals while protecting the vacuum system,” he says. The multi bellow pads fitted in SMC’s ZP series vacuum cups are designed for quick release and reduced

HMPS made use of SMC’s IP65rated stainless steel products for this application as they could withstand the wet and humid conditions in the factory as well as meet the highest health and safety demands. Palacio: “Components for this application were specifically selected to withstand caustic acid washdowns.” The results have impressed: the latest machine performs far better than its predecessor and has achieved 28 per cent in energy savings. It’s no secret that in packaging, every millisecond counts. “Through the unique combination

of a new vision system and SMC’s vacuum head, the customer is enjoying less waste, faster speeds and a reduced cycle time of 15 per cent,” Palacio says. This robotic cell can, so says Palacio, process 576 products per minute and is able to handle four different pouch sizes and four different gravy contents. “It’s important to note that the gravy affects the shape of the product and the performance of the vacuum head,” he says. “The vacuum cups used for this application adjust to ensure constant suction when required. This same technology can be applied across an array of products in pouches such as soups, rice, biscuits etc.” The customer is extremely happy with the results. “This new vacuum head will be retrofitted on an additional three machines at this same plant and SMC’s special vacuum head will become HMPS’s new standard going forward.” Palacio says his team loves projects where they can show the full capability of the SMC products and bring out the real innovation for which they were designed. His team in New Zealand designs and builds complete solutions and offers customised solutions for special applications. SMC Pneumatics 1800 763 862 AUSales@smcanz.com

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020

a MattScott production

INDUSTRY UPDATE MANUFACTURING VIDEOS PRESENTED BY NATIONAL TV NEWS ICON TIM WEBSTER

VIDEO UPDATE

Since its launch in 2017, Industry Update Video has been a phenomenal success, with content spanning the whole of manufacturing industry. Our Video Update EDM is mailed to readers each week with the most up to date content in Australia about the manufacturing industry. SUBSCRIBE TO OUR VIDEO UPDATE EDM AT INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU EVERY SINGLE VIDEO, FOR EVERY SINGLE CLIENT, PRODUCED BY INDUSTRY UPDATE, GETS TO PAGE ONE OF GOOGLE WITHIN ABOUT 7 WEEKS AND SOME GET THERE INSTANTLY.

TO HAVE VIDEOS PRODUCED FOR YOUR BUSINESS CONTACT INDUSTRY UPDATEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S

SCOTT OR GLYN TODAY

MANUFACTURING VIDEOS

EDITORIAL

ADAPTING TO THE ‘NEW NORMAL’ IN AUSTRALIAN INDUSTRY While the lockdown in Victoria and difficult work conditions are adversely affecting industry around the country, some businesses have done everything in their power to maintain operations at the greatest possible level. As much as these restrictions have adversely affected industries due to reduced active employee levels, many machinery-based and more automated production plants have managed sufficient output to maintain a viable business. In fact, some have been fortunate to align and adapt their manufacturing to increased demands for certain products during this unusual period in local and world history. Given the importance of any manufacturing to our devastated economy, such industry must remain active and productive. Kaishan Australia, one of the country’s leading compressed air equipment suppliers, has changed its operational strategies to cope with the situation. Their example is particularly pertinent because much of Australia’s – and in fact the world’s – manufacturing industry depends on compressed air to power its processes. Kaishan Australia consists of two integral divisions being sales of high-end industrial air compressors plus ancillary equipment and a service division that maintains compressed air systems throughout the country. The mobile technicians not only service and maintain the company’s own brand but have regular maintenance agreements to service, repair and maintain many other makes of compressed air systems throughout a broad variety of Australian industry including manufacturing, food processing, mining and scientific applications. While the administration and sales side of the business is working as best it can under current enforced staffing limitations and a general business downturn, the service side is facing a whole different set of challenges entailing the current difficulties of site visitation and operational restrictions. The Kaishan service technicians are required to provide regular maintenance checks and procedures at client premises to ensure compressed air systems, which are vital to keeping production lines running, are operating at peak efficiency. The service team also provides a twenty-four hour, seven-days-a-week emergency breakdown service – vital to any company relying on its compressed air

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

system to function effectively.

customer’s operation.

success.

A drop-off of such regular maintenance and services could place businesses in jeopardy of total, long-term shutdown, something that the industry and economy can ill afford at this or any other time.

Kaishan Australia’s CEO Mark Ferguson has his own perspective on the total company approach.

“Here at Kaishan Australia, we have definitely taken the approach with our people that ‘We are all in this together’. I congratulate all our team members on their dedication under such trying circumstances to ensure the company and our customers come through this in the best possible shape,” he says.

“The challenges of providing efficient and effective support to our customers have been a daily dilemma,” says Kaishan Australia service manager Shane O’Brien. “While traffic delays are minimal, moving through checkpoints and ensuring the service vans are cleaned and sanitised after each call takes a toll on our commitment to meet a two-hour attendance promise.” The company’s COVID-safe plan requires all staff to access all areas of the business so as to keep employees safe and meet the restricted operational plans of Kaishan customers. The decision to increase stock holdings from three to six months at the start of the pandemic allowed Kaishan to meet the needs of its customers over the last five months, O’Brien says, and recently allowed a full refurbishment of a large compressor for an approved business to be completed with minimal impact on the

“It’s vital during these difficult times that we support our customers to ensure they have the compressed air needed to maintain production,” he says. Kaishan faces many limitations in this goal, such as government restrictions, customers’ own policies around site access, and Kaishan’s own requirements implemented to keep its team safe. “Maintaining our high servicing standards requires a significant and coordinated team effort,” Ferguson says. “From customer contact, scheduling, spare parts management, technical support through to the carrying out of work needs to be undertaken while maintaining social distancing, yet at the same time providing close personal contact and effective communication throughout the process.” To do all this on top of keeping the team safe, motivated and focused - and during a worldwide pandemic no less- has been tough, but Ferguson says a team approach has played a big part in Kaishan’s

“At the end of the day, we want our customers to know we are looking after their best interests. But more importantly, we want the reliability of their compressed air to be the least of their worries while they deal with other challenges caused during this COVID-19 recovery period.” No doubt many Australia supply and servicing companies are facing similar challenges, but with a determined attitude to ‘not drop the ball’, co-operative arrangements can and have been made with customers to ensure industries remain viable and optimistic for a rapid recovery and prosperous future throughout our resilient country. Kaishan Australia 1300 098 901 www.kaishan.com.au

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020

CASE STUDY

THE IMPORTANCE OF COMMUNICATION: FOR PAC GROUP IT’S ALL IN THE BOOK documentation is a major activity within PAC Australia.” The automotive industry is a big part of the PAC portfolio - chances are the manual in your glovebox is a PAC product. PAC has worked with Toyota since 2005, when the automotive giant still manufactured cars locally.

to support the documentation. These can be created from sources such as CAD, photos or practical hands-on experience. PAC’s illustrators are experienced in creating exploded, cutaway and instructional illustrations as well as circuit diagrams, technical presentations and parts catalogues.

“Back then they did all the manuals and wiring diagrams for us,” says Kevin Dowling, Toyota’s senior publications coordinator.

These can either be as line-art or rendered colour illustrations, however photos can be used in lieu of illustrations as a costeffective alternative depending on the end use.

“When manuals would come from Japan they’d need a lot of changes to suit the Australian market, and they’d do that. There were never any issues, and they had a really old school work ethic.”

Benefits can be gained through reuse if the total package is considered from the start. For example, illustrations created for a user manual can be recycled for a parts catalogue or installation instructions.

When local automotive manufacturing came to an end, it meant big changes for PAC’s operations.

Another area rapidly becoming popular is the conversion of old paper-based documents and manuals into a usable digital format, which saves rows of storage space and are then easy to update.

“When we stopped building cars here,

“Just as many component suppliers have had to evolve, so too have we.” How often do you purchase a new product, flick through the instructions and then throw them away? If you’re like most people, it’s an all too common occurrence. Quality products are often let down by substandard supporting documents such as user or installation manuals. Poor grammar, untidy layout and unclear illustrations are repeat offenders. These documents reflect the quality of the product, so does a poor-quality user manual mean a poor-quality product? Maybe or maybe not, but if you want to reflect the quality of your product, why risk having it not used as intended or to its potential by having the manual thrown to one side? Documentation specialist PAC Group’s Gavin Ross says supporting documentation often gets short shrift in both local and imported goods. “It’s something we see all the time,” he says. “The message often gets lost in translation with imported products, and with local goods there may not be the budget.” The user or instruction manual is a

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020

company’s way to communicate and start a relationship with the user, an important step that’s often not considered. A car’s owner manual, for instance, often thanks or congratulates the purchaser before proceeding to inform them of all the benefits and years of enjoyment they’ll receive. This philosophy is often missed in other products. Ross says supporting documentation is often an afterthought in development processes, and by the time it comes to the fore there’s often no money left to produce documentation fit for purpose. “A common solution is to have someone just type something up,” he says. “Not an ideal outcome, and one that is potentially disastrous.” PAC Group has been in the technical documentation business for over 15 years, and most of its staff bring decades of industry experience to the table. “We came to PAC around 2005 to support their engineering and project management activities, which was PAC’s core at the time,” Ross says. “While PAC still works in the engineering and project management field, technical

the workload changed. PAC diversified seamlessly into technical manuals, proofing TMC files, warranty and service booklets and owner’s manual supplements. They didn’t miss a beat,” Dowling says. “The automotive industry has changed significantly over the last few years with the cessation of local manufacturing,” Ross says. “Just as many component suppliers – many who would be readers of Industry Update – have had to evolve, so too have we.” Today, PAC’s output is diverse and refined. PAC’s team of specialists create accurate technical documentation to meet client communication and product information needs in a variety of formats. They have years of hands-on experience in the automotive, manufacturing, infrastructure sectors, among many others. The team creates service repair and maintenance manuals, owner/operator handbooks, production process sheets, product assembly documentation, accessory installation booklets and technical brochures to name a few. They can also create the procedures, provide procedure validation and perform time and motion studies. Graphic illustrations are also developed

“Digitising our legacy manuals is a project Toyota has been working on with PAC for a while now,” Dowling says. “It’s a huge, ongoing project – we’re only three quarters of the way through – but they’ve handled it with enthusiasm and total professionalism.” As part of PAC’s diversification, it also provides many support roles in addition to documentation creation. Aftersales support is an important area for the company, which provides warranty administration and other specialists to several businesses. PAC also provides support in other ways, such as administering technical enquiry email boxes. With a large database of specialists on hand, PAC can provide engineering activities including project management, engineering support, supply chain services and process improvement. These specialists have a diverse range of expertise and experience. PAC Australia is part of a global group, but is a small, close-knit team that prides itself on providing a flexible service specific to the customer’s needs, regardless of their size. PAC Australia (03) 9645 6625 http://pacgroup.com

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

PRODUCTS

A COMPLETE, SIMPLE MACHINE SAFETY SOLUTION Available now from Control Logic, Schmersal’s new BMC Control Box is a compact, complete simple safety solution for single or three-phase machines. Traditional safety systems simply interrupt the power source and allow the system to “coast” to a stop. The BMC Control Box has an optional monitored DC braking system to significantly decrease the system stop time. The use of DC injection for the braking function allows for the safety function to be applied immediately with the braking applied at the same time rather than delayed as the case may be with some systems. Compatible with up to four safety input functions from a diverse range of hardware types (light curtains, magnetic sensors, emergency stops) the BMC Control Box is well suited to small standalone machines. Being highly configurable allows for a common product to be used in multiple machine types.

Meeting the highest safety levels (CAT4/PLe/SIL3), the BMC Control Box with DC braking is perfect for applications where operators are working close to hazards like mixing, drilling and milling machines. Designed around the TUV Certified SRB-E 204 ST, this comprehensive safety solution simplifies design, reduces installation time and validation costs. With in-built detailed LED feedback and LEXX Diagnostic application, fault-finding is fast and easy with reduces production losses and downtime. The BMC Control Box is suitable for the highest level of safety application in a simple and compact unit and with the DC braking option, stoppage times will be faster. Control Logic 1800 557 705 www.controllogic.com.au

A fully integrated system or a basic component – YOU choose from a single supplier.

Local Manufacturer Not an importer, we use components from our own exclusive European partners and build all conveyor products HERE.

European Quality

Adept has been supplying the materials handling industry with innovative and Bespoke designs for many years. Warehouse order fulfilment systems. Freight and courier parcel handling systems. E-commerce - Scope and range to satisfy and support most e-commerce companies. Faster Deliveries - Not subject to long lead times. Faster deliveries than all industry peers. Systems can be up and running before others get theirs off the boat. Flexibility - We provide solutions from a basic component to full system analysis, design and implementation. Long Term Support - Will always have availability of spares no matter how old the design may be.

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

Partnered with affiliates from all over Europe for specialised products.

Sydney

(02) 9771 4655 Melbourne

(03) 9357 8814 sales@adeptconveyor.com.au

adeptconveyor.com.au

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020

PRODUCTS

REDUCE DOWNTIME WITH OPTIBELT TENSION TESTER For the fastest and most accurate way to test the tension of your drive belts, take a look at the new TT line frequency tension tester from Optibelt. The Optibelt TT line tension tester measures the frequency of a belt’s vibration, resulting in extended belt and pulley life and a reduction in downtime. Compact design offers the Optibelt TT line tester universal application possibilities from an endless range of drives across the engineering, automotive and transport industries, as well as many other technical applications within industry. The Optibelt TT is suitable for even the most difficult to reach places, making possible quick checks of tension in V-belts, ribbed belts, kraftbands and timing belts. After it’s switched on, the Optibelt TT is ready to transfer data once the user has positioned the measuring head over the belt (with the aid of two red LEDs for accuracy).

Once the tensioned belt is made to vibrate by plucking or striking it by hand, the Optibelt TT immediately takes readings, showing the results in hertz regardless of the belt’s condition or colour. Tension recommendations can be taken from Optibelt specifications, CAP drive design calculations of the Optibelt app. The Optibelt TT is unaffected by UV light noise, and is interference-free when using measuring methods such as electromagnetic waves and acceleration integrated. Too much movement will cause the red lights to turn off, and the display to read ‘Rapid Move’ until the tester is steady. An unprecedented wide high frequency range of AC: 1-16Hz and EM: 6-600Hz makes the Optibelt TT ideal for use on long centre distances. The tester’s battery can last 300 belt measurements on a single charge. For particularly tricky belt spans,

the Optibelt TT’s measuring head has a flexible goose neck and a 250mm cable AC. The unit has a large, easy-to-read backlit 43x53mm display screen, a USB port for recharging and an automatic switch-off. The Optibelt TT comes in a kit containing the tension tester, measuring

head, charger, USB cable and a clipper for holding the measuring head, and is available now from automotive, transport and industrial wholesalers. Optibelt Australia 03 8791 2700 www.optibelt.com

PRECISION ENGINEERING & LOCAL EXPERTISE

mrtaustralia.com.au EXCLUSIVE DISTRIBUTION RIGHTS

JOINT AUSTRALIAN / GERMAN OWNERSHIP

CONVEYOR COMPONENTS Range unmatched from any other Australian supplier. Performance and reliability unmatched and backed. No comparable products on the local market that can match it for quality and performance. Hard to beat price on any other European products. Solutions to most hard to source replacements. Complete roller range offered and assembled here.

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

PRODUCTS

D-LINK’S OFFERING TO THE GODS OF WI-FI SPEED Just when you thought it was safe to get on the Wi-Fi, there’s another performance upgrade pending. Wi-Fi 6 is the next generation of everyone’s favourite wireless connectivity medium, this time designed to future-proof against the rise and rise of streaming as entertainment. Wi-Fi 6 takes wireless internet to a new level by not only upping speeds but spreading it more efficiently across the multitude of devices connected to your network. No longer will your phone start to chug once the kids are on Netflix, thanks to the magic of Wi-Fi 6. But even though Wi-Fi 6 may be available, it doesn’t mean your network is ready to handle it. You thought there wouldn’t be a catch? Your router likely wasn’t designed with Wi-Fi 6 in mind, so to take advantage of the latest and greatest, you’ll need to upgrade. So far, Wi-Fi 6-capable routers have been at the pricier end of the scale, but D-Link has sought to change that with its entry level-priced EXO AX1500 Wi-Fi 6 router. Sleek, efficient and ready to rock straight

out of the box, the dual-band AX1500 provides a gateway for the fastest internet to date to bring smart homes to life. Emphasis on the homes. The AX1500 is best suited to a home or small office rather than a larger enterprise and will comfortably provide Gigabit NBN to your devices. Setup is simple; the AX1500 is plug-andplay out of the box – as long as you’ve done your homework and have your ISP details on hand. Once the setup process is complete, you’re likely to notice an immediate uptick in speed…unless you’re using older hardware. Yesterday’s gadgets require you to enable the Always Broadcast option to keep things running smoothly, while the latest gizmos won’t have any trouble. That’s especially true in the case of Google Assistant or Alexa, which you can use to control the AX1500 with your voice. Sometimes it helps to talk it out. Speeds are fast on the 5GHz band – up to 1200Mbps in fact. For the 2.4GHz band, it’s not quite as breakneck. Users of older gear will enjoy a leisurely paced 300Mbps; it won’t set records, but it’s enough to get the

Your Stamping & Washer Specialists REQUEST YOUR FREE STAMPINGS & WASHERS CATALOGUE & CALENDAR!

3D-Printed Prototypes Available

bokers.com +16127299365 sales@bokers.com

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

job done. For those after a hardwired experience, the AX1500 features four 10/100/1000 Mbps Gigabit Ethernet LAN ports. It makes the rear of the router less frightening than some of the higher-end options on the market but may seem a little bare-bones to techies. It’s also worth noting that unlike many higher end routers, the AX1500 lacks malware protection. It’s likely not a dealbreaker for many – there are plenty of malware safeguards out there – but it’s a bit of a surprising omission. On the other hand, D-Link has opted to make automatic firmware updates an option, which will come as a relief to those sick of having to update even their toothbrush before their day can properly begin. So what’s the bottom line if you want to get onto Wi-Fi 6 but you’re intimidated by the bleeding edge of router technology? Simply put, D-Link’s AX1500 is a safe bet. Ultimately, it does what it says on the box - better performance than what you probably have already, next-gen speed (it does

facilitate Wi-FI 6), exceptional capacity for devices (it can handle an average household’s worth of devices without struggling) and backwards compatibility for older devices (with the caveat of slower speeds) – and it does these things with minimal fuss and user effort. For many, that’s all that’s required of the latest technology. If you’re expecting speed miracles, you may want to wait a little longer, but for those with a new Gigabit NBN connection, the AX1500 is an ideal (and relatively inexpensive) Wi-Fi 6 starter kit. D-Link A/NZ 1300 700 100 www.dlink.com.au

A WORLD-CLASS RANGE OF GUIDE WHEELS As the inventor of DualVee Motion Technology, Bishop-Wisecarver offers one of the widest ranges of guide wheel components and systems in the world – and that range is now available at T.E.A. Transmissions. Bishop-Wisecarver’s linear guide products based on DualVee wheels and track provide durability in harsh and extreme environments while offering a high degree of reliability. With six sizes and carbon, stainless steel and polymer versions, DualVee provides options to suit any application environment (including high/low temperature, food grade and wash-down conditions). MadeWell radial wheels and crown rollers are easy-to-use components that use standard fasteners and straightforward mounting methods to handle simplified loading conditions. UtiliTrak linear guides provide a compact profile and allow for misalignment tolerance when installing parallel systems. Where corrosion resistance is required, UtiliTrak is available with stainless steel components or with polymer-over molded wheels and aluminium track.

LoPro systems are available as nonactuated linear guides or as belt, chain, lead screw or ball screw actuators. LoPro is available in five sizes to accommodate loads up to 1598kg, and can be designed and customised to very long lengths. Bishop-Wisecarver also offers motor mounts to accommodate your drive needs. When a standalone unit is required, Bishop-Wisecarver’s range of actuators covers all applications, from low load to heavy duty and high speeds. Corrosionresistant versions to accommodate food, wash-down and laboratory applications are available in several of their linear actuator lines. T.E.A. Transmissions 07 4129 2533 www.tea.net.au

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020

WASTE MANAGEMENT

OMRON DRIVES STERILISING HOSPITAL ROBOT

The Royal Hobart Hospital is now a safer, healthier workplace for staff thanks to Australia’s first Central Sterilising Department (CSD) robot.

can operate autonomously 24/7 throughout the entire sterilisation process - will not only improve staff safety but will also deliver greater efficiency.

Developed by Omron in partnership with global sterilisation equipment and infection control leader Atherton, the automated guide vehicle is now in operation at the hospital.

“We’ve been working closely with Atherton on this project for more than two years to deliver a solution that conforms to the strictest safety standards,” he says.

The first-of-its-kind robot was two years in the planning, and transports reusable medical instruments and equipment for sterilisation at the new CSD facility.

“Using Omron’s LD series mobile robots Atherton was able to deliver a fully automated solution to minimise the risk of staff injuries.”

According to TAS Health Minister Sarah Courtney, the robot will deliver better outcomes for staff by reducing the risk of workplace injuries. “Automated vehicles will support staff by delivering around 100,000 packed hospital instrument trays to the new sterilisers. This will help to reduce staff injury by removing the need for repetitious lifting,” she says. “This is the first time any hospital in Australia has used the robot.” The new equipment, which includes two Omron LD series mobile robots, is part of a $2.8 million government investment in the new infection control facility. “We want our patients to have access to the best possible care available, especially as we continue our recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic,” Minister Courtney says. The state-of-the-art CSD supports nine existing operating theatres and inpatient and outpatient services at the hospital as well as five new operating theatres, a procedure room, angiography and the cardiac cath lab in the new hospital wing.

The CSD robot is programmed to follow a designated route in the “clean” and “sterile” sections of the new facility, avoiding any foreign objects in its path. To avoid the risk of injury, it stops automatically if a human comes in close proximity. Merrett says the new Lynx robot is gaining the attention of hospitals throughout Australia. “Major hospitals are always looking for the latest technology, and this robot ticks all the right boxes.” Atherton is currently planning a further upgrade to its healthcare robot using Omron’s latest LD250 mobile robot, which can handle payloads of up to 250kg. Previously, hospital staff used a batteryoperated cart system to manually transport loads of sterilised equipment weighing up to 100kg to key areas of the hospital. Merrett says the mobile robots can also be used for other healthcare applications including pick-up and delivery of medicine and medical supplies, x-rays, health documents, bed linen and meals.

It has a “dirty” area precinct that includes the new decontamination areas, washers and dryers and a “clean” area precinct which includes storage, assembly areas, sterilisers and the cooling and sterile stock area.

“The end result is better outcomes and support for patients and staff,” he says.

Omron business development manager John Merrett says the new CSD robots – which can handle payloads of up to 130kg and

OMRON Oceania 1300 766 766 www.omron.com

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020

“The possibilities are endless.”

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

BOMAC

PORTABLE SAFETY ONSITE OR OFFSITE Ask anyone affected by supply chain disruptions during the COVID-19 pandemic and they’ll tell you: sometimes getting what you want when you want it is almost impossible. It’s certainly true for those equipped with a manual chain hoist, which trades ease of use for convenience. The physical labour required in the use of a manual chain hoist for moving goods or equipment can impact productivity or, even worse, cause injury to staff. That’s why Australian engineering firm Bomac has developed its new battery chain hoist, which combines the convenient portability of a manual chain hoist with the ease of an electric hoist. “We saw a real gap in the market,” says Tate McFarlane, Bomac’s engineering director. “People needed to use a portable lifting hoist quite regularly, but the use of a manual hoist was too slow or caused worker fatigue, not allowing them to get on with the work they really need to do.” Bomac’s battery-powered chain hoist gives you portable safety and strength wherever you need it. With capacities of 250kg or 500kg and an easy-to-use design that prioritises safety, it’s ideal to move among equipment onsite. The unit uses an 18V Li-Ion battery to provide a practical piece of hoisting equipment. One battery provides approximately 25 minutes of runtime during a 60-minute period if used at full capacity and maximum speed. Every unit comes with two batteries, a single-phase 240V charger and a portable case, making it ideal to take from site to site and use where there is no power. “Li-Ion batteries are used for so many applications these days, from powering computers to heavy vehicles,” McFarlane says. “The Li-Ion battery technology continues to make advances providing better performance and longevity so it’s no surprise that we can now use this technology to build useful lifting equipment.” The unit comes equipped with a slipping clutch as well as an overload alarm and an LED visual load indicator to provide operator feedback and reduce the risk of damage or injury.

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

“We have found these units to be used across a range of industries including maintenance, construction, farming and mining, where a power source is not always easy to access – if it’s even available,” McFarlane says. Combined with an Altrac lowheadroom gantry, the chain hoist can operate in and maximise limited space, such as inside a shipping container. In assembly applications where heavy parts are lined up and put

together, the unit’s variable speed allows users to slow the process down so parts can be aligned precisely. Some traditional hoists only have one or two speeds, the constant stopping and starting of which can cause the load to bounce around and damage equipment. Bomac’s chain hoist is pricecompetitive when compared to a traditional electric hoist; owners enjoy the added bonus of not having to pay for additional wiring and

cable management systems such as festooning or busbar systems. Don’t let your environment dictate your ability to get the job done. Bomac’s battery-powered chain hoist puts power and safety onsite with you, no matter the location. Bomac 03 9796 5300 www.bomac.com.au

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020

AUTOMATION

AUTOMATION DRIVES LOGISTICS FACILITY OF THE FUTURE

By Paul Stringleman, Senior Consultant, Swisslog Australia For a long time, the primary driver of warehousing and logistics automation advances has been efficiency.

have a safer, healthier job than manual labour workers in older warehouses.

Robots and machinery can perform repetitive and complex tasks faster, safer and with greater precision than manual methods ever could.

Green packaging One change many larger companies are adopting globally is the utilisation of more environmentally friendly packaging, including materials that biodegrade more easily over time.

But what about the environmental benefits of automation? These benefits may not always be the most obvious focus when it comes to warehousing and logistics applications, but in an increasingly environmentally conscious world, any technology that can save costs and help to achieve sustainable, eco-friendly outcomes has a competitive edge. Less space, better hygiene and reduced fossil fuel needs are major assets for distribution facilities located in densely populated areas or near residential areas. The advantages of automation (including those that follow) make logistics facilities more neighbourhood friendly.

A smaller footprint Automation has many benefits including the environmental advantage of occupying a smaller physical footprint in a warehouse or logistics facility. Products can be stacked neatly, almost right to the roof, and an automated storage and retrieval system (ASRS) can swiftly select products from anywhere in a compact grid. Not only is less land required for a fully functioning warehouse, the carbon footprint is further reduced when you consider that a smaller space will need less electricity, water and other resources. Based on Swisslog’s past projects, when comparing a manual warehouse to an Automated Storage and Retrieval System (ASRS), up to 60 per cent less space is required. So if a business needs 10,000m2 for a manual warehouse, but an automated solution means you can perform all the company’s delivery needs within a 4,000m2 space, and you take the price of $125 per square metre in Sydney, the leasing costs reduce by $750,000 per year. And existing sites that are retrofitted or refurbished with automation technologies can use the space saved for other profit generating activities or optimised processes for changes in business model. Naturally these figures are only a

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020

However, a disadvantage of ecofriendly packaging is that it’s often more prone to breakages in the handling process. Automation technology can apply a smooth, gentle touch, which has allowed greener packaging to be employed by more companies. hypothetical, but there will always be some level of savings by reducing the size of the space needed for the warehouse and logistics operations.

Reduced power consumption An ASRS can operate in the dark, leading to significant savings in electricity and carbon emissions. And, as technology advances, further power-saving features are incorporated into automated warehouses, including functions where robots ‘go to sleep’ to save power when not in use. Off-peak power can also be utilised, with automated technologies able to work around the clock and be controlled remotely, which provides a cost saving as well as environmental benefits. Typically, an intelligent Warehouse Management Software system will control the entire automated operation and will automatically calculate the most efficient way to operate all machinery and achieve desired outcomes. With Industry 4.0 advances – machines talking to machines – operators aren’t required to be on-site 24/7. They can control the technology remotely, saving road traffic to and from the plant.

Shifting away from fossil fuels The carbon footprint of a warehouse or logistics facility is further reduced when automation technologies perform tasks previously undertaken by fossil fuelpowered materials handling alternatives. Heavy-duty manually operated machinery emits more CO2 into the environment compared with its electric

counterparts, so automated machines can help reduce total carbon emissions of a facility. Additionally, automated technologies are far quieter than fleets of fossil fuel-powered vehicles. Electric vehicles provide an alternative to fossil fuels, but they are not cheap, and the technology is constantly evolving. Even fleets of individual electric standard lift vehicles can cost from $20,000 $50,000 each to purchase, or $200-300 per week to lease, or more – and they need continuous updating.

Health, safety and hygiene Reduced manual handling of goods – particularly in food, beverage and pharmaceutical applications – has broader long-term sustainability benefits to society, including lowering the risk of product contamination or product tampering. The crippling costs or a product recall – including product disposal, business interruption, customer reimbursement as well as damage to brand reputation – are something no business wants to endure. Naturally, hygiene benefits have never been more apparent than in a postCOVID world, where hygiene is top of mind for all companies and individuals. In a post-COVID world, hygiene is not an option for a sustainable business – it is a necessity. Long-term sustainability is also further enhanced by a greater level of worker safety. With workers no longer having to go deep (or high) into racking to retrieve products, the risk of injury (both repetitive strain and accidental) is reduced. Workers in an automated warehouse – from technology controllers to maintenance crews to warehouse managers – typically

From conveyors to pickers to robots and automated vehicles, automation technologies have allowed for greener packaging to be used without compromising the integrity of the product during the handling process.

Profitability and sustainability – a win-win The efficiency and productivity benefits of automated warehousing or logistics operations have been proven in service worldwide. And these benefits contribute to better profitability over a sustained period as operations are further tailored to meet customer needs and eliminate inefficiencies. When you add environmental sustainability benefits into the same equation, it’s truly a win-win for the operator. And while the environmental win might be a desirable yet secondary benefit for now, it’s only a matter of time before the majority of new facilities are constructed to be as eco-friendly as possible – and existing facilities are more widely retrofitted to achieve greater standards of environmental sustainability. As this global trend towards greater sustainability continues, automation will be a major driver in making it possible. GreenLog supply chain sustainability programme To optimise sustainability practices and design and seek continuous improvement, Swisslog has implemented a comprehensive internal programme for improving supply chain sustainability. Swisslog Australia 0416 865 553 www.swisslog.com/en-au

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

HYDRO INNOVATIONS SPECIAL - CASE STUDY

DOWN ON THE FARM When Blantyre Farms, a mixed farming and livestock business in the NSW Central West, found itself facing that very old, very Australian conundrum - pushing slurry uphill - the owners turned to the wastewater experts at Hydro Innovations for help.

“I love a challenge,” Rothheudt says. “It’s all I’ve ever done. If I think we can do it, I’m on my way out there to do it.” A family owned business, Hydro Innovations knows its stuff when it comes to pumping and wastewater.

The point of concern was Blantyre’s piggery, which in early 2020 had a ripe problem.

“What sets us apart is our focused range of wastewater and industrial pumps,” Rothheudt says.

The farm uses the waste from the piggery to fertilise its fields, but not before it goes through a lengthy process. First, the raw waste is transferred to a covered anerobic lagoon, the size of a football field.

“We know our products, especially the niche products. We don’t spread ourselves too thin with a product range that’s too wide to properly understand. The expertise is there, and the consumer knows that, so when they come to us, they know we’ll find the solution to their problem.

There, the waste breaks down into

“It’s not easy to get heavy, thick sludge uphill unless you think outside the box.” Rothheudt’s solution was to use a Ragazzini peristaltic pump model MS3. The operation of this style of pump derives from human “peristalsis” intestinal muscle movements - an alternating contraction and relaxation of muscles around a tube to coax the contents through. “Peristaltic pumps are usually found in medical situations, and often used to pump blood,” he says. “They’re also excellent for pumping gentler substances like food, but what sets them apart is that the mechanics of the pump never touch what’s being pumped.” The substance to be pumped is confined to a tube or hose and pushed along by rollers on a bearing system. “With the Ragazzini system, there’s no need for lubrication of the hose, which is good when the hose eventually wears out,” Rothheudt says. slurry as it generates methane, which is drawn-off and used to run generators to power the farm. The broken-down slurry is then pumped to settling evaporation ponds some distance away, where it dries and is ultimately used as fertiliser. The problem for Blantyre was that the slurry had the consistency of molasses and pumping it to the ponds was no easy feat for standard pumps. “Ordinary pumps just couldn’t handle the slurry,” says Hydro Innovations’ NSW regional manager Phil Rothheudt. Blantyre Farms turned to Hydro Innovations, whose specialty is sewage and wastewater handling, to find the solution.

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

“The information supplied by Phil to select the correct pump for our application was great, as was the communication for the actual purchase,” says Blantyre Farms maintenance manager Mark Schulz. “So far we have not had an issue to date with the pump nor information if needed.” For Phil Rothheudt, the success was no surprise. “The Ragazzini is a unique pump in our range because of the peristalsis and the no-mess, no-lubricant and ease of hose replacement features,” he says. “We also had a call from a municipal water treatment plant operator that had been using peristaltic pumps to pump carbon slurry; the existing pumps used an oil to lubricate the hose. When the hoses eventually failed, the leaking carbon would mix with the lubricant and cause trouble for days.”

That operator was sick of having wasted days and down-time to clean up the mess whenever the hoses on his pumps wore out. Once the pumps were replaced with the Ragazzini MS3, the issues stopped. In Blantyre Farms’ case, Hydro Innovations’ know-how and experience made all the difference between being up the creek and pumping it to a safe distance. “Our success is down to expertise and word of mouth,” Rothheudt says. “We can turn around an enquiry same day and offer a solution; we know the specifics - that’s what matters.” Hydro Innovations 02 9898 1800 hydroinnovations.com.au

“When that happens, the contents will leak out, but in the Ragazzini’s case is easily cleaned; if it’s mixed with lubricant, it can take a long time to clean up a mess like that.” Hose changes are quick and clean, and also enable the owners to use Ragazzini’s fast leak detection system that alerts owners when a hose needs replacing. With little in the way of maintenance, the Ragazzini is a winner. It was only when it began the arduous task of pumping the slurry uphill to the settling pond that the real test began. “The farmers were a bit skeptical, but I knew it would work!” he says. That was in March 2019; Blantyre has had no issues since.

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020

HYDRO INNOVATIONS SPECIAL

FLYING FISH BACK IN THE AIR One night in the midst of vintage, surely the most hectic time for any winery, Damon Eastaugh of Margaret River vineyard Flying Fish Cove faced a serious problem. The Flying Fish wastewater surface aerator had broken down. For Damon, it wasn’t the most desirable situation to find himself in. Being amid a global pandemic, which could complicate potential repairs or replacement, didn’t help. Flying Fish Cove was in need of a simple, reliable and efficient replacement system, and fast. Damon had heard of bank-mounted aerators and wondered how effective they would be on his site. Perhaps they’d be simpler to maintain, and allow him to avoid in the future the annoying and costly situation he’d ended up in. To find out more, he placed a call to the experts at Hydro Innovations. The Hydro Innovations team was

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020

able to explain the benefits of the bankmounted Venturi Aerator. The chief improvement of a bank-mounted aerator over its surface cousin is that because it’s mounted on the bank of the lagoon, maintenance and servicing is much simpler. This means the equipment is easily able to be regularly serviced and thus enjoy a longer lifespan than aerators that are difficult to access. The Venturi Aerator does not need any special equipment such as cranes or row boats, or any complicated annual certifications for servicing and maintenance. Best of all, the Venturi could easily be retrofitted into the Flying Fish Cove setup to reduce any operational downtime. Not only was Damon happy with the pump and the price, he was thrilled that Hydro Innovations could get the system to him and solve his problem in less than four weeks – including transport from the east coast to Western Australia.

Damon was not disappointed with his new purchase. Shortly after installation, his BOD had gone down by 1400 ppm from the previous month. Also instrumental in the Flying Fish Cove solution was the fact that Hydro Innovations keeps a wide range of products in stock and on hand, even

throughout the 2020 pandemic. Today, the fish are flying as high as ever thanks to the quick and expert work of Hydro Innovations. Hydro Innovations 02 9898 1800 hydroinnovations.com.au

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

PRODUCTS

REST AND RECOVERY MADE EASY WITH TENTE Ease of mobility in hospitals and clinics was crucial even before the COVID-19 pandemic, but with healthcare facilities under increased strain, it’s now more important than ever to make the hospital experience the smoothest it can be.

Tente’s castors also feature a minimum overall height, which enables nursing staff to set the lying surface of hospital beds low without a loss of mobility. This improves fall prevention and reduces risk of patient injury.

To effectively be a part of the recovery process, equipment in hospitals and clinics must serve two masters: patients for whom it must make the experience comfortable and conducive to good health, and healthcare workers for whom it must be safe, easy to use and ergonomically sound.

Speed is a critical factor in any hospital, so Tente’s central locking system allows the company’s Integral, Integral twin and Linea castors to be locked and released in a single step. The foot pedal is accessible from every side for improved speed and safety.

Tente, the world market leader in the medical furniture sector, understands this, and has designed an impressive variety of features aimed specifically at the healthcare sector.

The Quick-Fitting R36-34 assembly ensures castors can be changed and cleaned quickly and without complications.

Since 1923, Tente’s range, designs and business practice prioritise safety, ergonomics and efficiency. As a globally positioned company, Tente continues to set new standards and offers a wide range of pioneering mobility solutions for the healthcare industry. Tente’s experts are on hand to help you make the right choice from their large selection, no matter your requirements. Peace and quiet is a large part of recovery for any hospital patient, and Tente’s ergonomic, low-noise castors take the strain off both patients and nursing staff. Wheels can be quietly locked and released to ensure patient rest is not disturbed, while effortless handling equals greater productivity and significantly improved safety for employees.

Linea is Tente’s hospital bed castor; low swivel resistance and a remarkably low overall height contribute to the undisturbed recovery of patients. The Linea e-lock system features an electronically activated locking function that makes switching nearly silent and offers flexible control of all switching positions. The system can be seamlessly integrated by hospital bed manufacturers into corporate designs. Often found beneath operating tables, the Linea Load features increased torsional stiffness for firmer positioning and higher load bearing capacity. The Integral is Tente’s benchmark single-wheeled castor for the medical field. Integral combines attractive, functional design with high safety, long life and exceptional resistance to shock loads.

The Integral’s soft wheel options – with smooth running, directional locking and full mobility - have been specially developed for the quiet hospital environment. The robust and maintenance-free construction makes cleaning a breeze, while high quality components make the Integral resistant to many chemical substances. Tente’s smart solution, the E-Drive electric drive system, can be fitted to hospital beds for the ultimate in effortless transport. The battery-powered drive unit allows equipment to be driven around with ease, and when in stand-by mode, the drive wheel retracts to allow for manual movement. Popular among healthcare staff, the E-Drive improves productivity and quality of care while increasing staff wellbeing and reducing operating costs.

Now more than ever, healthcare providers need their equipment to offer safe, peaceful and reliable performance for patients on the mend. Tente’s castors and wheels make any hospital bed or operating table into silent, manoeuvrable allies in the fight for good health. The company’s long track record assures clients that Tente delivers optimised efficiency, comfort and profitability without the fuss. As the healthcare industry continues the never-ending battle, Tente is poised as the ultimate foundation.

Tente Castors & Wheels 1300 836 831 www.tente.com.au

SAFETY FIRST WITH ENERPAC TORQUE WRENCHES each year.

weight and power are critical factors.

To enhance the safety and ergonomics of such projects, Enerpac introduces the new DSX-Series Aluminium Square Drive Torque Wrench – a lightweight tool with industry-first patented safety features.

With a high-strength aluminium body, the Enerpac DSX Series are lightweight and easy to use, important factors when working at height. A multi-direction 360 x 180 degree high flow aluminium swivel helps prevent twisted and tangled hydraulic hoses.

The DSX rounds out Enerpac’s portfolio of controlled fastening technologies designed for medium duty use when working at height. Bolting operations performed at height run the risk of accidents and of the danger to anyone working below. According to WorkSafe Australia, a slip and a fall, or being hit by falling objects are major causes of death and injury on Australian construction and infrastructure projects

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

The five compact yet powerful torque wrenches, each weighing from 2.2kg to 32.5kg, are suitable for use in the construction, infrastructure, mining and resource industries, onshore and offshore oil production, energy utility installation and distribution tasks, and wherever ergonomic, portable and safe use where

Enerpac product and channel leader Andrew Marsh says the DSX Series contain many ergonomic and safety features. “To help reduce dropped-object incidents when working at height, the five models in the series feature a built-in connection point to safely tether the tool to a work belt or bag,” he says.

A standard ergonomic safety handle is also included to prevent injuries or near misses from loss of tool. “When it comes to operator protection, a fully enclosed drive prevents operator contact with moving parts inside the tool,” Marsh says. To help boost on-site efficiency, the wrenches feature a fine-tooth ratchet that prevents the tool from locking on, a 35-degree rotation angle to assist with repetitious bolt tightening tasks, and a retained push button for quick release. Enerpac’s www.enerpac.com

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020

PRODUCTS

FIREPROOF WRAP HOSES HIGH-RISE FIRE CRISIS allowing the structure to breathe, thereby preventing condensation damage. High-rise fires are a serious concern. The Victorian Metropolitan Fire Brigade has recorded over 1,300 high-rise fires over the last 10 years. “With our harsh climate, fire safety is critically important in Australia,” says Ametalin CEO Stephen McIntyre. “Australia should be the world leader in fire-safe construction. CeaseFire is the next step forward on that path, a technical breakthrough that will pave the way for stricter fire regulations and safer buildings world-wide, potentially saving lives.” The Building Code of Australia (BCA) mandates that building membranes used in the façade of multistorey buildings meet the requirements for “non-combustible construction”, which does not mean that all materials used must actually be non-combustible.

Stephen McIntyre - CEO

A South Australian insulation manufacturer has launched a new BCA-compliant fireproof wall wrap that mitigates the spread of fire between tenancies through external walls in highrise buildings. CeaseFire, a robust pliable building

membrane by Ametalin, creates a fire barrier behind the façade of multi-storey residential and commercial buildings. When appropriately installed, this helps to prevent fire from leap-frogging between tenancies by burning up the outside of the building while still

Rather, they must have a low fuel load and low flammability. As far as Ametalin is aware, no wall

wrap currently in use in Australia is a noncombustible material as defined by the BCA. CeaseFire not only meets but greatly exceeds the current requirements of the BCA for non-combustible construction by providing a fire barrier. Importantly, CeaseFire is also the first and only vapour permeable pliable building membrane in Australia that forms a continuous barrier to water, air and fire. In most of Australia, it is recommended that wall wraps be vapour permeable to avoid condensation damage. In Western Sydney, Melbourne and other climates with cool winters, it is required by the BCA. CeaseFire ticks all the boxes for installation as a weather and fire barrier in modern building facades. Ametalin, based in Salisbury North, is Australia’s largest sarking and wall wrap manufacturer. Ametalin 08 8285 6955 www.ametalin.com

optibelt SUPER XE-POWER PRO M=S 9 TOTALLY MAINTENANCE FREE 9 WIDE TEMPERATURE RESISTANCE 9 HIGH POWER RATING 9 SUITABLE FOR BACK BEND IDLER

+130 °C

–40 °C

THE MOST ADVANCED COGGED V-BELT IN THE INDUSTRY

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020

T 03 8791 2700 E sales@optibelt.com.au www.optibelt.com

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

OPTIBELT AUSTRALIA

PRODUCTS

COST EFFECTIVE ROBOT CONTROL For easy, low-cost programming of robots, igus has developed control software for its automation solutions. Now available online, igus robot control is free of charge and offers the user an easy introduction to automation. Imagine robots retrieving goods from boxes, helping to take samples or dispensing cans from a machine. It’s all possible – whether articulated arm robots, delta robots or linear robots, Treotham has all three kinematics available as low cost automation solutions. Different robot kinematics can be programmed and controlled; a digital twin simulates the movements and can be instructed like a real robot. Users can try out in advance which robot is best suited for their application with igus robot control, a software for the simulation and programming of all igus robots. The cost-effective igus robot hardware, such as a linear robot with switch cabinet, is available from Treotham; all programming carried out on the digital twin can then be applied to the real thing. “As a mechanical engineering company, we are very familiar with the different kinematics,” says Alexander Muhlens, head of automation technology at igus GmbH. “So the next logical step for us was to develop a correspondingly simple and intuitive robot control system.” With igus robot control, users can freely move all the axes of the digital twin via a 3D interface. By means of a teach-in function the robot can be programmed easily, even without a robot connection. To do this, users must manually move the robot to the desired position and define how it is to be moved. The process is repeated until the desired motion profile

is created. Matching end effectors, such as grippers, are easily added, while the tool centre point adjusts automatically. Virtual boxes can also be installed, for example, to prevent the robot from colliding with a machine. The igus robot control can also be connected to a higher-level control

The SpecialiSTS in elecTronic DriveS for over 30 yearS • Repairing of complex electronic boards, including obsolete boards that are no longer supported by vendors • Design and construction of multi-drive systems • Professional Control Systems Integrators • Repairing/retrofitting of electronic AC, DC and servo drives • Laboratory & Clean Room

book,” Muhlens says.

The igus developers plan to further expand the control system.

“Further services such as image evaluation via webcam or bin picking solutions are planned as cloud-based solutions.”

“In the future, we want to offer cloud services such as vision integration, remote commissioning and also online training for a small cost, which the customer can

Treotham Automation 1300 657 564 www.treotham.com.au

INDUSTRIAL & COMMERCIAL DOORS & GATES

24/7 Emergency Breakdowns Preventative Maintenance New Installations Over 12 years experience

• Large Stocks of Spare Parts • Australia wide 24 hour service

system, either via interface communication with Digital IO or via Ethernet communication using an IP address.

Datafactory

0432 127 279 service@vulcandoors.com.au

Call us on 03 9874 7737 www.datafactory.com.au

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020

FLUID CONTROLS PUMPS PIPES AND VALVES

A TANK ANYWHERE YOU NEED IT The tank is simply rolled or folded up on the deck, leaving plenty of loading space. Accessories are designed for quick filling and emptying. In addition to being particularly suited to the transportation of fuel to remote sites, the tanks can be filled with any other liquid for the simplest uses: drinking water, liquid manure or industrial solutions. The Pronal rage also includes rapid deployment 5 cu m modules for drinking water production from fresh water by ultrafiltration. Pronal transportable tanks protect their contents by stopping contact with air and preventing microbial, bacterial or fungicidal development.

Ruggedly engineered collapsible Pronal multi-fluid tanks, available now from Air Springs Supply Pty Ltd, respond to the kind of storage challenges typically encountered on infrastructure development and remote production sites. These locations need fuel, hydrocarbons, drinking water, firefighting and chemical process solutions and wastewater and fluid storage. The flexible Pronal transport and storage tanks fold up to a fraction of their inflated size for transport by land, sea or air to their point of use. They can then be deployed for fixed periods or permanently to provide fluids vital to safety, construction and process needs in a cost-effective way. Available in capacities from a few hundred litres up to 1000m cubed depending on the application, this high quality technology is simple, quick to deploy and cost-effective in containing solutions vital to industry. According to Air Springs Supply national sales and marketing manager James Maslin, the tanks also work to protect the environment. “Flexible storage tanks can be rapidly deployed, are easy to install and are maintenance-free,” he says. “Pronal flexible storage tanks represent an ideal and economical solution for a wide range of activities, costing less than half the outlay required for fixed installations and capable of being installed in a fraction of the time.” The tanks can also transport any type of liquid when mounted on truck flatbeds, by suspension under helicopter or by towing behind a vehicle, he says. “Some versions can be dropped from

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020

the air from a height of several tens of metres.” Pronal tanks are manufactured to stock and custom sizes by international elastomer and plaster engineering specialist Pronal, whose top quality, light-but-tough tanks and lifting products are used in industrial and resource development and by military, emergency response, aviation and exploration organisations. Applications for the tanks are as diverse as water, chemical, industrial sludge, agricultural and food and beverage processing, as well as fluid storage emplacements in urban, agricultural, desert and isolated, ecologically sensitive areas. Uses of Pronal elastomer and plaster technology also extend through to aircraft, rail and road vehicle crash recoveries and isolated land and maritime applications. Pronal is the company that developed the lifting bags used to recover components of the liner Titanic from four kilometres beneath the Atlantic Ocean.

Maslin says Pronal bags are particularly robust thanks to vulcanised or welded joints, while military storage and lifting bags are constructed to NATO standards. Pronal water tanks provide self-supporting closed storage. Created with highresistance technical issues, they guarantee the long-term storage of clean water protected from all contamination and evaporation, which is a major problem in hot outback areas. Their fabric allows them to withstand high temperatures. The lightweight, foldable tanks are fitted with longitudinal skirts and adjustable straps to provide maximum safety during transport. Snap hooks are provided for quick installation on the decks of trucks, allowing the vehicle to be quickly adapted to other purposes when it comes back empty.

For local authorities and other industrial organisations using pickup trucks, the Pronal range offers versions that are shaped to fit the vehicles’ bodies. Pronal is one of the world’s most experienced and respected producers of flexible products used to lift, push, press, seal and store. Founded in 1961 and headquartered near Lille in northern France, Pronal builds standard and customised flexible products from fabrics coated with elastomer and/or polymer. Pronal’s Australian distributor, Air Springs Supply, is Australia’s leading supplier of air springs and associated pneumatic technology for the industrial and transport sectors. Air Springs Supply 02 8877 5500 www.airsprings.com.au

Also known as flexible bladders or covers, they are made from either elastomer or plastomer depending on their application. The tanks are reinforced with extra-strong textile reinforcement, which Maslin says effectively makes them highly tear-resistant. “Many organisations have an ongoing need for quickly expandable ways to transport liquids to remote sites or points of need,” he says. “Not all organisations have the budget or need for vehicles, vessels or aircraft dedicated to liquids transport, particularly when they can use existing general purpose vehicles, including 4WDs, Utes and trucks.”

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

LATERAL THINKING

THEY SAID IT.. The best industry and political quotes of the past and present: “Sloth makes all things difficult, but industry all things easy.” Benjamin Franklin, US Founding Father “Victoria has turned the corner and we, together with the Victorian Government, are planning to reopen Melbourne and reopen Victoria.” Prime Minister Scott Morrison prior to the Victorian Government’s announcement of its COVID-19 recovery roadmap “This is about a fight with only one thing, and that’s this wildly infectious virus. The politics of this … that is of no value.” Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews defends the roadmap “In the ordinary business of life, industry can do anything which genius can do, and very many things which it cannot.” Henry Ward Beecher, US Congregational minister and slavery abolitionist

“I do begrudge [Qld Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk] because [of the] situation. We [have] low community transmission and NSW has shown you can have open borders. Why would you hurt your business and jobs in your own state?” NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian’s war of words over Queensland’s border closure heats up “We are going to win four more years. And then after that, we’ll go for another four years because they spied on my campaign. We should get a redo of four years.” .” US President Donald Trump on his 2020 election chances

2. How many countries are larger than Australia? 3. You’ll likely find an appliance in your kitchen that contains freon gas. Can you name it? 4. How many albums did the late Slim Dusty record? 5. Can you name the two metals that can be alloyed to make pewter?

killed on the set of which 1994 film? 7. Cape Byron at Byron Bay, NSW is Australia’s easternmost point. What is the country’s westernmost point? 8. Which of author Saul Bellow’s novels was his personal favourite? 9. In the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, what ranks eighth? 10. In rhyming slang, if someone said they were going to “have a butcher’s”, what would they be doing?

1: O-. 2: Five (Russia, Canada, China, USA, Brazil). 3: Refrigerator. 4: 103. 5: Tin and lead. 6: The Crow. 7: Steep Point (Shark Bay). 8: Henderson the Rain King. 9: Topaz. 10: Have a look (butcher’s hook).

1: Nothing. The match cannot spark without oxygen. 2: The woman was a minister. 3: The letter e.

Teabreak Trivia

ANSWERS

Lateral Thinking

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

3. What is at the beginning of eternity, the end of time, the beginning of every end, and the end of every place?

NEXT ISSUE

“We now need to get a million Australians back to work. That is the curve we need to address.” Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison

6. Actor Brandon Lee was accidentally

2. A woman from Sydney married ten different men from that city, yet she did not break any laws. None of the men died, and she never divorced. How was this possible?

The risk-oriented approach should mean the removal of blanket COVID restrictions.” Ai Group chief executive Innes Willox

TEABREAK TRIVIA 1. What blood type do you need to be a universal donor?

1. If you were to step into a sealed room filled with 100 per cent methane gas and strike a match, what would happen?

As Victoria begins the long road to recovery, Australia is holding its breath to discover what’s in the future for local manufacturing. While the continued Victorian lockdown has had an impact on the nation’s bottom line, industry’s resilience is as strong as ever. In the October edition of Industry Update, we’ll tackle the summer heat with a breezy look at cooling and fans. This year’s set to be a scorcher, so you’ll want to chill out and keep things cool with what’s on offer. We’ll unpack the world of packaging, wrapping and labelling to discover the best ways to keep things under wraps. Motors and drives take pole position as we find out what it takes to keep machinery going forward. Pollution management will also make a

splash in October as we see how the latest technology scrubs up. We’ll catch some rays with solar and emergency lighting, well-positioned to light up the summer, and to top it all off we’ll put together a feature on machine building. And of course, we’ll have the usual suspects - Business, Finance and Marketing, Education and Training, Workplace Safety, Security, Waste Management and Machinery, Metalworking and Machine tools - all present and accounted for. Don’t miss it. If you’d like to be a part of our October edition, call Scott or Glyn about advertising on 02 9439 1288, or send your editorial to editor@industryupdate. com.au before Friday, 23 October. And remember, don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened.

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020

We Weproduce produce PRODUCT PRODUCT VIDEOS, CASE CASESTUDY STUDYVIDEOS, VIDEOS, uce PRODUCT VIDEOS, CASE VIDEOS, STUDY VIDEOS, MANUFACTURING MANUFACTURING CURRENT CURRENT AFFAIRS AFFAIRS VIDEOS VIDEOS and andHOW HOWTO TOVIDEOS VIDEOS ACTURING CURRENT AFFAIRS VIDEOS and HOW TO VIDEOS

EXCLUSIVE! EXCLUSIVE! NOW NOW PRODUCING PRODUCING 2 2PART PARTDOCUMENTARIES DOCUMENTARIES VE! NOW PRODUCING 2 PART DOCUMENTARIES

We produce PRODUCT VIDEOS, CASE STUDY VIDEOS, MANUFACTURING CURRENT AFFAIRS VIDEOS and HOW TO VIDEOS EXCLUSIVE! NOW PRODUCING 2 PART DOCUMENTARIES

Tim Webster

Tim Tim Webster Webster

Australia’s National National Icon Icon Australia’s National IconAustralia’s and and News News Presenter Presenter and News Presenter

(Channel (Channel Ten, Ten, Foxtel, Foxtel, (Channel Ten, Foxtel, Sports Sports Tonight, Tonight, 2UE 2UE And And 2CH) 2CH) Sports Tonight, 2UE And 2CH)

Tim Webster

Australia’s VIDEO National Icon VIDEO PRODUCTION PRODUCTIONHIGHLIGHTS HIGHLIGHTS VIDEO PRODUCTION HIGHLIGHTS and News Presenter (Channel Ten, Foxtel, Sports Tonight, 2UE And 2CH)

• Hosted •TV Hosted by national national icon icon and and news news • Hosted by national iconby and news TVTV journalist journalist Tim Tim Webster Webster journalist Tim Webster • Filmed • Filmed inin a broadcast 6pm a 6pm nightly nightly news news broadcast broadcast style style • Filmed in a 6pm nightly news style VIDEO PRODUCTION HIGHLIGHTS • Creating • Creating a high a high level level ofof integrity integrity for for clients’ clients’ • Creating a high level of integrity for clients’ products products and and services services products and services • Hosted by national TV icon and news Tim Webster • Average •journalist Average length length ofof 1 to 1 to 2 minutes 2 minutes • Average video length of 1 tovideo 2video minutes Industry Update Update Update Industry • Filmed in a 6pm nightly news broadcast style • Individual • Individual client client playlists, playlists, have have allall your your • Individual client playlists, have all your Youtube Channel Channel Statistics Statistics • Creating a high level of integrity for clients’ ChannelYoutube Statistics videos videos in in one one place place videos in one place products and services ** * • •Embed •Average Embed these these videos videos website website oror any any • Embed these videos on your website or any video length ofon 1 on toyour 2your minutes Industry Update social social platform platform (Facebook, (Facebook, LinkedIn LinkedIn etc) etc) social platform (Facebook, LinkedIn etc) • Individual client playlists, have all your * * Statistics * Youtube Channel in one place • All •videos All magazine magazine advertising includes a QR a QR code code •* All magazine advertising includes aadvertising QR code includes *Since service service launch launch in 2017 in 2017 ch in 2017 *Since •that Embed these videos on your website or any 1,250,000 impressions that links back to your that links links back back toto your your website website website

1,250,000 1,250,000impressions impressions 000 impressions 588,000 588,000views views 0 views 588,000 views

Since Since itsUpdate its launch launch in in 2017, 2017, Industry Industry Update Video Video been been a phenomenal a phenomenal * hashas in 2017, Industry Video has been aUpdate phenomenal success, success, with with content content spanning spanning the the whole whole of of manufacturing manufacturing industry. industry. ontent spanning the whole of manufacturing industry. *Since service launch in 2017

ProductVideo Video Packs Packs Video Product Packs success, with content spanning the whole of manufacturing industry.

Since its launch in 2017, Industry Update Video has been a phenomenal

social platform (Facebook, LinkedIn etc) • All magazine advertising includes a QR code that links back to your website

More More facts: facts:

More facts:

Companies Companies must must have have good good video video content content With With over over 1.5600,000 1.5 million million impressions impressions and 600,000 600,000 st have good video content With over 1.5 million impressions and 76% 76% of businesses of businesses with with product product videos videos saysay 76% ofand businesses with product videos say Product Video Packs More facts: now -just buyers - buyers expect it and it and will will just gogo views views invideos less in less than than 1212 months, months, our our videos videos are their their sales sales have have increased, increased, while while thethe improved improved xpect it andnow will go expect views injust less than 12 months, our are their sales haveare increased, while the improved educational educational quality quality of the of videos the content content reduced support support Companies must have goodrates videoof content With over 1.5 of million impressions andquality 600,000of the 76% elsewhere elsewhere if they if they don’t don’t have have something something getting getting great great rates rates of engagement. engagement. educational content reduced support ey don’t have something getting great engagement. of businesses with product say reduced 1 1 now - buyers to expect it and will just go views in less than 12 months, our videos are1 enquiries enquiries by 47% 47% their sales haveby increased, while the improved interesting interesting and informative informative to watch. watch. enquiries by 47% informative to watch.and Plus, Plus, each each video video hashas anan accompanying accompanying story story each has an accompanying story educational quality of the content reduced support elsewherePlus, if they don’tvideo have something getting great rates of engagement. One One billion billion hours of video of video areare watched watched on on YouTube YouTube More More importantly importantly it increases it increases sales sales by by 81% 81% One billion hours of video enquiries are watched on YouTube tly it increases sales by 81%interesting 1 hours published published online, online, in e-news inhas e-news and and in the in the by 47% published online, in e-news and inPlus, the and informative to watch. each video an accompanying story every every day, day, with with a user’s a user’s average average viewing viewing session session every day, with a user’s average viewing session (see (see below). below). It is It a is no a no brainer. brainer. s a no brainer. One billion hours of video are watched on YouTube magazine magazine (with (with QR a QR code) to to integrate integrate More importantly it increases 81% magazine (with asales QR by code) to integrate allaonline, published incode) e-news and in the all all 2 2 lasting lasting 40 40 minutes minutes lasting 40 minutes2 every day, with a user’s average viewing session (see below). It is a options. no brainer. media media options. options.(with a QR code) magazine to integrate all media 2 lasting 40 minutes TIME & DATE

STG2550BusinessCommbanking_Manufacturing_PRESS_245x340MM_v10

BLEED

TRIM

TYPE SAFE

N/A

GUTTER

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Dan

N/A

SCALE

2) https://www.youtube.com/yt/about/press/

100%

245x340mm

SCALE

100%

CURRENT DPI

XXXDPI

N/A

COLOURS

4 Colour

FINAL DPI

XXXDPI

PLEASE NOTE: Image is only positional low res for now will need to update with the final high res for approval.

PERSONNEL

Some Some of of our our Industry Industry Update Update Video Video clients clients ndustry Update Video clients Some of our Industry Update Video clients

August 8, 2019 3:05 PM

Source: Source: 1) https://www.wyzowl.com/video-marketing-statistics-2018/ 1) https://www.wyzowl.com/video-marketing-statistics-2018/ OPERATOR OUTPUT NOTES/COMMENTS Source: 1) https://www.wyzowl.com/video-marketing-statistics-2018/ VERSION JOB # / NAME 2) https://www.youtube.com/yt/about/press/ 2) https://www.youtube.com/yt/about/press/ Source: 1) https://www.wyzowl.com/video-marketing-statistics-2018/ 2) https://www.youtube.com/yt/about/press/ SETUP

media options.

PRODUCTION

CLIENT CHANGE

ART DIRECTOR

ACCOUNT MGMT

INTERNAL CHANGE

COPY WRITER

CLIENT

DESIGN (Inc Spell Check)

STUDIO (Inc Spell Check)

Number one manufacturing

Number Number one one manufacturing manufacturing publication in Australia Number one manufacturing Circulation ofAustralia 19,233 and readership of 76,932 publication publication in in Australia publication in Australia Audited by

Circulation Circulation of 19,233 19,233 and and readership readership of of 76,932 76,932 Circulation of 19,233 and readership ofof 76,932 Audited by

Audited Audited by by

02 9439 1288 / sales@industryupdate.com.au

industryupdate.com.au

0202 9439 9439 1288 1288 / sales@industryupdate.com.au / sales@industryupdate.com.au industryupdate.com.au industryupdate.com.au 02 9439 1288 / sales@industryupdate.com.au industryupdate.com.au

Break with traditional steel, protect with advanced polymer. Steel guardrails and expensive floor damage belong in the past. Time to move to a smarter, safer tomorrow. Advanced polymer signals a new scientific future for workplace safety. No painting, non-corroding, nothing bent, dented or cracked. Huge savings on repairs and downtime. We have not stood still since we pioneered the first industrial-strength polymer guardrail in 2001, constantly innovating to create the safest and most advanced workplaces in the world. Our guardrails will stop a forklift the weight of a rhino, then flex, absorb and reform.

Tested to the global benchmark of BSI PAS 13, and independently certified to perform. A promise stronger than steel.

To schedule a FREE site survey or virtual consultation, please email sales@asafe.us or phone (443) 776-3472.

Phone (02) 9625 8927

asafe.com

Industry Update August/September 2020 Issue 115 Victorian Edition

Articles inside

INDUSTRY POLITICS

AUTOMATION

INDUSTRY UPDATE

WASTE MANAGEMENT

FROM THE PUBLISHER

COVID- 19