Industry Update February/March 2021 Issue 118 by Industry Update

AUSTRALIA'S LARGEST CIRCULATING MANUFACTURING MAGAZINE

Industry Update

Issue 118 February/March 2021

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MANUFACTURING MAGAZINE

BIG MOVES FOR ONSHORE

MANUFACTURING This time last year, Industry Update posed the question: “Is it time to bring Manufacturing Back to Australia.” And the answer continues to be a resounding, ‘YES’ in 2021. Manufacturing remains a backbone of the Australian economy. Industry advocate AiGroup says, their report shows that the Australian performance of manufacturing Index increased by 3.2 points to 55.3 in January 2021. The sector continues to make up ground that was lost in 2020, with production, employment and exports all expanded through domestic sales. The uptick is a sign of good things to come for 2021. Meanwhile Westpac’s Institutional arm found that 57% of large corporations in this hemisphere were in the process of bringing operations back to Australia, whilst others have already completed the process. SCLAASt.George HIGHLY COMMENDED AUTOMATION SOLUTION: Locally, Bank is the leading financial SAFELY STORES 6 CLASSES OF DANGEROUS GOODS

SCLAA HIGHLY RECOMMENDED SCAN THE QR CODE BELOW TO SEE THIS AUTOMATION IN ACTION AUTOMATION SOLUTIONS PAGE 15

Matthew Kelly - Head of Manufacturing and Wholesale at St.George

Matt Holloway - Holloway Group Managing Director

institution that supports manufacturing in Australia, as our story reveals on page 13.

to diversify supply chains”

Over the last 6 months it’s really exciting to see that businesses and consumers have fallen in love with Australian made manufacturing. St.George's Matt Kelly, head of manufacturing and wholesale, says, “Early government support to bring more manufacturing back onshore is encouraging. And government has flagged the push

HYGIENIC WASHDOWN CONVEYOR PAGE 39

GROWING MANUFACTURING THROUGH ACTION NOT WORDS - PAGE 18

AMTIL LAUNCHES

AUSTRALIAN

MANUFACTURING WEEK 2022

The Australian Manufacturing Technology Institute Limited has announced it is now taking exhibitor bookings for the event in Melbourne to be held from 8-11 March 2022.

Manufacturer Holloway group, has also launched a ‘Bring it Home’ campaign to encourage businesses to return production to our shores.

This event will focus on Additive Manufacturing, Engineering Solutions, Manufacturing Safety, Robotics & Automation and an Australian Manufacturers Pavilion, among the many product zones.

Holloway Group explains that it’s important the paradigm shifts from the stereotypical thinking that it’s cheaper to get something manufactured from overseas.

Organisations considering participating are strongly advised to contact AMTIL promptly to secure their place.

Continued Westpac pg8 & Holloway pg9

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CONTENTS PUBLISHER SCOTT FILBY

scott@industryupdate.com.au

FROM THE PUBLISHER............................... 6 INDUSTRY NEWS......................................... 8 INDUSTRY POLITICS.................................18 WORKPLACE SAFETY...............................22

ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER DOMINIC TUSA CIRCULATION ASSISTANT EMILY PRICKETT

18 16

ACTING EDITOR ANNAMARIE REYES

editor@industryupdate.com.au

SUB EDITOR TREVOR ALLEN

subeditor@industryupdate.com.au ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR SCOTT FILBY

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INDUSTRY POLITICS

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FEBRUARY / MARCH 2021

EDITORIAL PUBLISHER SCOTT FILBY

ACTING EDITOR ANNAMARIE REYES

BRIGHT FUTURE AS MANUFACTURERS RETURN TO AUSTRALIA

On the front cover of our February 2020 edition of Industry Update Magazine, our main headline posed the question, “Is it time to bring manufacturing back to Australia?” When these words were penned in late January 2020 no person alive on earth had any idea just how true those words would become. Fortunately, for the majority of manufacturers, the COVID-19 pandemic has been a silver lining as government, businesses and consumers have become acutely aware of the need for Australia to have a strong and resilient manufacturing industry.

Every day we see people looking closely at products to see their country of origin and businesses are taking great strides to regain many sectors of the manufacturing industries that were once lost to offshore production.

It is true that in Australia we will never again manufacture certain products. Car manufacturing has left our shores and will never return. But there are many products that we can once again produce in Australia if we all come together to make it happen. I have been told many times by people that really know very little about manufacturing that Australians will never pay higher prices for goods when they can purchase them at much cheaper prices. That was once true, but the world has changed, and we must face these changes as a united nation Industry Update is really excited as we experience an increased level of inquiries we have not seen in years where manufacturers are wanting to promote their services. 2021 looks set to be a good year for manufacturers as the industry continues to grow.

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IF THERE IS A WILL THERE IS A WAY

As if we are not being tested enough already, our Covid normal now asks us to get used to intermittent lockdowns on our state borders. Early this year we witnessed in WA how mid-flight passengers were made aware of a snap lockdown after a single case of Covid-19 was sourced to a quarantine worker in Perth. Which, needless to say, has created a sense of reluctance for business travellers to take off quickly out of fear they may be held up in quarantine for two weeks or locked out of their own state upon return. But business owners and operators do need to travel. So could it be possible that each state deal with similar cases on a caseby-case basis. And not close down the whole city whenever new cases emerge.

I do remember in late November 2020 other states pointing the blame finger at NSW for keeping borders open, as the state dealt with cluster spread in the Southwest and Northern Beaches areas of Sydney.

The other states like Queensland and Victoria kept strict border restrictions at the time and NSW remained on cruise control focusing on spread prevention rather than extreme reactions. But with patience, diligence and resilience the state did eventually contain the spread. Around about the same time, with relief, Australia’s health experts supported the mandatory practise of wearing masks in public transport in NSW in a bid to keep the virus cases down. And the strategy worked because for over a month now NSW has kept its cases down, experiencing zero new cases in some of these days. So the point I’m making is this – if there’s a will there is a way. That is, we can contain the virus, and knee-jerk responses can often be more destructive than constructive for business in the end. Certainly, the manufacturing sector had been doing exactly that, albeit quietly. This issue of Industry Update magazine will showcase the factory of the future, revolutionising supply chains and measuring digitisation capacity of your operations.

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NEWS

CEOS KEEN TO BRING MANUFACTURING BACK HOME

Continued from cover

A new report has found a majority of business leaders across the Asia Pacific are actively reducing their reliance on China in their supply chains, which will reinvigorate the local industry. The latest Asia Pacific CEO survey conducted by Westpac’s institutional arm found 57 per cent of large corporations in the region have begun to onshore supply and/or manufacture, to minimise risks within supply chains. Surveying 113 chief executives, the report found two-thirds of firms had experienced significant supply disruptions during the coronavirus pandemic, and more than half had decided to manufacture onshore. Some 63 per cent expected to continue this direction in the future, as CEOs are “likely to see such measures as helping to reduce supply dependence on China,” the survey found. Westpac executive Anthony Miller

said the new approach presented an opportunity to “reinvigorate” local manufacturing. “We’re going to see a focus on smart manufacturing, which will create jobs – particularly high-skilled opportunities – and it’s going to see us build capability in areas where we can be very competitive on an international scale,” he said. This shift coincides with fracturing trade relations between Australia and China, which has hit major exporters in the agriculture and resources sectors. The relationship soured further when Chinese authorities slapped Australian wine makers with import tariffs of up to 200 per cent. Mr Miller noted the responses by senior management during the pandemic had accelerated digitisation strategies, particularly using technology to cope with a remote workforce.

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are based in China, 20 per cent are based in Indonesia, and the balance are divided equally between Australia, New Zealand, Japan and Singapore.

Westpac’s report surveyed chief executives from 113 companies located in Australia, China, Japan, Singapore, Indonesia and New Zealand. The survey was conducted in July and August.

Their companies are distributed across a wide range of industries, with the largest representation from consumer goods (14%), construction and real estate (11%), and financial services (10%).

One-quarter of the respondents

NEUMANN STEEL CELEBRATES 50-YEARS IN BUSINESS

The oldest, family-run reinforcing steel business in the country, Neumann Steel, is celebrating 50 years in business. Part of the Neumann Group, the company has grown from a tenacious operation to a proudly Australian-owned and operated company, employing more than 220 people.

“In the 1980s, we were the first in the country to innovate with rib wire and rib mesh, transitioning it to the domestic market. We’ve always been responsive, serving our customers’ needs, no matter the size of the job.” GET IT NOW:

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Anthony Miller - Westpac institutional chief

According to the survey, 69 per cent of CEOs said they had become more resilient as a leader, while 72 per cent of respondents said organisational decision making had become quicker.

“We’ve always innovated, delivering steel solutions to support projects big and small,” said director Marc Neumann.

11x more selling

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

Westpac’s report also highlighted a number of firms remained resilient during the pandemic and were able to adapt to changing demand and operating conditions.

Run by second generation directors – Marc and Paul Neumann along with Mark Shearman – as part of the wider Neumann Group, the steel business has flourished over the decades.

The Machine presents a radically different approach to sales where salespeople just sell.

“A lot of businesses took actions to stabilise their operations out of urgent necessity, but in the process, many have brought in changes that promise future benefits — some unanticipated — in terms of efficiency and team cohesion,” Mr Miller said.

The company has had a hand in many projects including the Q1 tower,

Jewel Resort, the Gold Coast Light Rail, the Toowoomba Range Crossing. Neumann Steel also supplies residential home builders throughout south east Queensland and the Hunter Region. The Neumann Group started its first business, sand mining in Currumbin, in 1948. It then began Neumann Dredging to mine for more sand as demand grew. With the excess gravel from dredging, it started Nucon and produced concrete. In 1970 the family opened Nucast to manufacture precast concrete products, which evolved into Neumann Steel in the late 1980s. Neumann Steel operates the largest mesh manufacturing facility in Queensland supporting the reinforcing steel for a large portion of the residential housing market, while also specialising in the supply of custom reinforcing steel required in the commercial and civil markets. Neumann Steel www.neumannsteel.com.au

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2021

HOLLOWAY GROUP LEADS CALLS TO ‘BRING IT HOME’

NEWS

Continued from cover

As the economy recovers from an unprecedented 2020, there is a renewed focus from government and industry to bolster the local manufacturing sector through both innovation and onshoring production. At its height, Australian manufacturing accounted for roughly 25 per cent of Australia’s Gross Domestic Product. But in 2019, manufacturing was reported to account for a mere 5.65 per cent. Many companies who left our shores are finding freight costs increasing, supply chains disrupted and impacts surrounding uncertain trade relations. But now, many are returning. With the economic, logistics and health impacts of Covid-19 continuing to ripple through global markets, one Sydney company has taken up the charge to be a leading voice in promoting Australian-based manufacturing. Innovation facilitator and manufacturer Holloway Group has launched a call to action for local businesses to refocus their efforts to onshore production, with their ‘Bring it Home’ campaign. Spearheading this initiative is Holloway Group Managing Director Matt Holloway, who sees 2021 as the perfect time to embrace the opportunities and benefits presented by manufacturing in Australia. “Our goal is to get our industry and prospective clients to think a little bit differently and to change their behaviour around purchasing,” says Matt. “The ‘Bring it Home’ campaign is an educational piece for us to make some noise about our industry and for manufacturers across Australia.” The campaign highlights four key advantages to local manufacturing: Avoiding up-front payments leading to better cash flow; the ability to not having to hold so much inventory; avoiding many costs associated with overseas markets and exchange rates; and faster lead times and better customer support. “The stereotypical thinking that it’s cheaper to get something manufactured overseas – we really wanted to shift that paradigm. It’s not the case anymore at all,” says Matt. “Lead times are one issue, but the actual bottom line expense cost has literally doubled.

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2021

“A container out of Malaysia has increased by 80 per cent over the last 6 months and climbing. Companies have to absorb that cost. You can try to subsidise as much as you can, but it gets to a point where you have to pass it on to clients. “We’re getting people to really think it – if I get a Chinese supplier quoted and an Australian supplier, well, the Chinese supplier still might be cheaper, but if you look at all the added costs, lead time and some of the less tangible as well, I think you’ll find it’s just as appealing to procure locally.” After operating as A Plus Plastics for the past 20 years, the company rebranded to Holloway Group last year. Their subsidiaries include Ausdrain, GEOHEX and Group Tooling – A Plus Plastics remains as a brand for their range of industrial grade packaging solutions for supply chain markets. Holloway Group specialises in the design, tooling and manufacturing of plastic injection moulded products, with a real focus on research and development. Ausdrain manufactures and distributes drainage cell products and stormwater management products, specialising in modular underground tank systems. Holloway has implemented a successful social media campaign to get the ‘Bring it Home’ message out there as well as via a rigorous sales team throughout Australia. Matt is hoping for more engagement in ‘Bring it Home’ and says the industry should band together. “I think this is definitely a precedent for more companies like ours to bind together and really promote the campaign. “This is a real opportunity for like-minded companies to come together to rally and make some noise about Aussie manufacturing. “If we could convince even one new client to come on board, then it was well worth it.” Holloway Group 02 9603 2088 www.bringithome.net.au

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

NEWS

SA LEADING NATION INTO THE FINAL FRONTIER South Australia has flagged its intentions to be the nation’s leaders in the emerging space manufacturing sector.

South Australian Space Industry Centre (SASIC) chief executive Richard Price says the already thriving South Australia innovation ecosystem is already in take-off with the emergence of new and disruptive markets.

The state government has launched its Space Sector Strategy, which will focus its activities in space industry and research to propel SA’s growth in the area and contribute to the national agenda.

“While traditional space-related services fundamentally underpin our way of life on Earth and deliver a large proportion of the revenue attributed to the space sector, there are phenomenal opportunities for the new breed of spacerelated services that are unencumbered by legacy practice,” he said.

The new strategy will aim to drive the state’s contribution to the Australian Space Agency goal of tripling the size of the nation’s domestic space industry to $12 billion by 2030, helping to create thousands of jobs. Premier Steven Marshall said jobs creation was a major factor in South Australia’s eagerness to expand its space capabilities. “Our vision for growth is simple – by 2030, South Australia will be designing, manufacturing, launching, and operating SmallSats (small satellites) to deliver actionable, space-derived intelligence for sovereign Australian missions – creating hundreds of jobs in the process,” he said. “Businesses in the space sector will be creating thousands of job opportunities for

South Australians over the next decade which is great for our economy.” Mr Marshall made it clear that South Australia’s space sector will be critical in the state’s economic recovery from the global coronavirus pandemic. “While the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has unequivocally affected the space sector, South Australia’s space sector growth target projects above average growth of 5.8 per cent for the next ten years,” he said.

“Space is one of the nine sectors we have identified as a priority in our plan for further economic prosperity, helping to keep SA safe and strong and helping to create new jobs in this exciting sector.” The strategy was drafted in collaboration with industry and is a crucial part of South Australia’s broader Growth State Strategy, a partnership between the South Australian Government and industry to accelerate our economy through business expansion and innovation.

“These NewSpace-enabled products and services have strong potential to improve the productivity and competitiveness of virtually every sector of the broader economy, as well as making a direct contribution to growth in South Australia. “We are committed to getting behind new entrants in the space industry and supporting domestic and international companies to develop and grow innovative and disruptive ideas contributing to our space sector.”

NEW LOGISTICS HUB SET FOR WESTERN SYDNEY and when the warehouse becomes operational,” Mr Ayres said.

The NSW Government has approved construction of a new warehouse and distribution hub, securing up to 1,650 new jobs and $242 million in economic investment for the surrounding region.

“This is just another example proving that COVID-19 won't stop NSW from growing stronger, and the Hub also supports our plan to foster new sources of growth, jobs and investment in Western Sydney.”

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Rob Stokes said the approved new Kemps Creek Warehouse, Logistics and Industrial Facilities Hub will help combat the economic impacts of COVID-19 by delivering investment and new job opportunities for Western Sydney. This approval will allow for the construction of eight buildings as well as earthworks to be carried out and infrastructure built across the entire hub. The development of the rest of the hub will be subject to future development applications. Construction is expected to begin this year and will be undertaken in stages with the first building to be completed within 12 months. “This development will create 700 construction jobs and 950 operational

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

jobs while injecting $242 million into the Western Sydney economy,” Mr Stokes said. “The approval means we can get shovels in the ground faster. This government is committed to fast-tracking planning assessments to help stimulate the economy during the pandemic.” The new development is a joint venture between Frasers Property Partners and Altis Bulky Retail. The hub will include major global

retailers, e-commerce providers, health and pharmaceutical industries, warehousing and logistics operators, light manufacturing and data centres. Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney Stuart Ayres said the investment was a vote of confidence in the future Aerotropolis. “Creating jobs and boosting business is a priority for the NSW Government and this Hub means work for hundreds of people, during both construction

Member for Mulgoa Tanya Davies said that the development will contribute to Western Sydney’s growing employment force and benefit from its prime location close to the Western Sydney Airport. “Western Sydney is establishing itself as a strong industrial and employment growth area. The construction of a new warehouse and logistics hub is going to substantially add to this growing reputation and attract more investment that will benefit our western Sydney community,” Mrs Davies said. “Once fully complete, the entire hub could support up to 2,000 operational jobs.”

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2021

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NEWS

AUSTRALIAN MANUFACTURING WEEK 2022 OPEN FOR EXHIBITOR BOOKINGS showcase of state-of-the-art machine tools and ancillary equipment.

Looking to get your company or product front and centre of prospective clients? The Australian Manufacturing Technology Institute Limited (AMTIL) has announced the opening of space bookings for Australian Manufacturing Week 2022, to be held in Melbourne next March. Proudly owned and operated by AMTIL, Australian Manufacturing Week (AMW) is Australia’s premier manufacturing solutions event. Co-located with Austech, AMTIL’s longstanding advanced manufacturing and machine tool expo, the inaugural edition of AMW will take place at Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre (MCEC) from 8-11 March 2022. As the largest event covering manufacturing and engineering scheduled to be held in this country, AMW 2022 promises to be an unmissable highlight of next year’s Australian manufacturing industry calendar. With significant advanced interest from industry since AMW was first announced last July, the opening of bookings marks a major milestone in preparations for the show. Organisations considering participating are strongly advised to contact AMTIL promptly to secure their place.

demand for stands.” AMW was announced in July 2020, following the decision by Reed Exhibitions to cease operation of National Manufacturing Week (NMW), which had been held in colocation with Austech for 20 years. With NMW’s discontinuation, AMTIL saw an opportunity to build on the consistent success of Austech and broaden its events portfolio, developing a comprehensive showcase that would highlight the full extent and diversity of Australian manufacturing today and the technologies, processes and innovations shaping its future. “AMW is the natural new home for exhibitors who have participated in NMW in the past,” Banks added.

“We are excited to announce that Australian Manufacturing Week (AMW) is now open for stand bookings,” said Kim Banks, AMW Exhibition Manager and Head of Events at AMTIL.

“Australia is a complex marketplace for metalworking trade shows or machine tool expos, so to have one single event that showcases Australian manufacturing in its entirety is something we believe the industry will value and benefit from.

“With a strict cap on available space for 2022, exhibitors may find themselves jostling for a position as the postponement of several exhibitions in 2021 increases

“Our ambition is for AMW to become not just an exhibition, but the focus of a weeklong celebration of manufacturing and its value for Australia today.”

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Exhibitors at AMW 2022 will have the opportunity to present their products and services to some of the most influential customers from across Australian manufacturing. AMTIL prides itself on the high calibre of visitors it attracts to its events. Visitors to AMW will represent industries such as: aerospace; defence; automotive; marine/ shipbuilding; medical, biotechnology & pharmaceutical; petroleum, coal & chemicals; plastics & rubber manufacturing; materials handling & warehousing; recycling; electronics; and telecommunications & IT, With AMW covering the entirety of modern manufacturing, and with such a diverse array of visitors in attendance, the exhibition will feature a number of dedicated Product Zones covering specific segments or aspects of the industry. These specialised areas will help visitors to AMW find the products and services of most interest to them, while giving exhibitors the option to choose the most suitable location for their stand. AMW 2022 will include the following Product Zones: •

Austech. AMTIL’s longstanding

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Additive Manufacturing. The latest advances in 3D printing, featuring exhibits from users, suppliers and supporters of additive manufacturing.

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Digitalisation (IoT). Exploring how developments in digital technology and the Internet of Things (IoT) are ushering in a new era of smart, connected manufacturing.

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Air Technology. Highlighting a range of cutting-edge compressor systems and associated technologies.

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Engineering Solutions. Engineering plays a vital role in modern manufacturing – this pavilion will display equipment and tools for a broad cross-section of engineering disciplines.

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Manufacturing Solutions. Optimised solutions to the most common challenges experienced by manufacturers, from materials handling and warehousing to integrated manufacturing solutions.

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Manufacturing Safety. The latest technologies, products, and services to improve occupational health & safety (OH&S) standards and compliance and reduce safety expenditure.

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Robotics & Automation. Featuring the latest cutting-edge equipment and processes for the optimisation and automation of manufacturing operations.

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Weld Solutions Zone. Highlighting advanced welding processes, with high-quality interactive experiences that demonstrate new developments and applications in the welding sector.

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Australian Manufacturers Pavilion. First launched at Austech 2013, this area showcases the capabilities of some of Australia’s precision engineering and advanced manufacturing businesses.

“There’s definitely going to be a lot going on at AMW next year, and we’ll be making further announcements over the coming months,” said Banks. “Keep an eye on the AMW website (www.australianmanufacturingweek.com.au) or follow our social media channels to stay up to date. And if you are thinking of exhibiting, don’t hesitate to get in touch – you don’t want to miss out.”

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2021

NEWS

HOW THE PANDEMIC BECAME THE CATALYST FOR CHANGE IN MANUFACTURING

For all the challenges COVID-19 has delivered, it has also highlighted the agility and innovative nature of Australia’s manufacturers. This report by Industry Update, based on a St.George special report – The 2020 Revolution – examines the impact on the sector. As the coronavirus pandemic has upset just-in-time global supply chains, Australian manufacturers large and small have moved with extraordinary agility during the crisis – quickly transforming to produce products most immediately needed to keep Australians safe, from face masks to hand sanitiser. Simultaneously they have been shoring up their own longer term futures by finding different ways to co-operate, manage supply chains, accelerate innovation, transform business processes and reach new markets. Along with exposing the gaps in Australia’s manufacturing supply chains, COVID-19 also revealed the nation’s vulnerability, as a commodity-based economy, to external shocks, and highlighted the need to reverse the hollowing out of our manufacturing capability, says Professor Roy Green, Chair of the University of Technology Sydney Innovation Council. While many businesses have been severely compromised by the effects of the global pandemic, a large number of Australia’s quick-acting manufacturers have capitalised on the opportunity to transform, tapping into a groundswell of support for local products while also becoming more globally competitive. Overall, manufacturers are finding innovative ways to do almost everything, from changing the types of products they make, to rethinking production methods, supply chains, distribution models and logistics. Typically, they are collaborating online to achieve success with new partners. “They’ve realised the power of working together … and sharing that knowledge to transform their business. It’s really the digital transformation of manufacturing,” says Michael Sharpe, NSW Director of the Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre (AMGC). Commonly, companies are initially agreeing to collaborate in the national interest. Take the example of US company Stryker. Faced with surging demand for hospital beds, Stryker called the AMGC for help in establishing manufacturing in Australia. Within hours the centre had pulled together a local supply chain. Mattress manufacturer A.H. Beard, wheel and castor maker Fallshaw, vehicle conversion specialists AmTek Australia, and fabrication and engineering company Varley Group joined Stryker South Pacific to get production moving ASAP. FEBRUARY / MARCH 2021

“Within two weeks the first hospital beds were being produced”, says Mr Sharpe. Now, 500 hospital beds have been procured by the Department of Health in Western Australia. For the Australian businesses involved “the goodwill and the willingness to adapt and stand up for the nation was certainly a proud moment”, he says. There has also been a welcome fundamental shift in how manufacturers market themselves. “We’ve got members that are doing heavy engineering work, producing low-

Matthew Kelly - St.George’s Head of Manufacturing and Wholesale

diversify our supply chains”. One of the challenges will be skilling of the workforce, says Mr Kelly. With higher unemployment, some deep thinking is needed on how TAFE, government and industry can work together to attract and train potential new manufacturing workers, including those recently unemployed from different industries.

It’s a wake-up call. Frankly I don’t think people want to be – as dependent on China anymore. loader trailers in the mining and earthmoving sector … but suddenly advertising on Facebook and finding new customers. It shows a new willingness to try new things in new ways,” says Mr Sharpe.

What the next normal means for manufacturers Plans for greater national selfsufficiency, shorter supply chains and onshore manufacturing are well underway. While a post-COVID world will certainly look different, the pandemic won’t spell the end of doing business globally for Australian manufacturers. However, there will “definitely be a reset”, says Tim Harcourt, the J.W. Neville Fellow in Economics at UNSW Business School, and part of that will involve a diversification of supply chains. The pandemic provided a wake-up call. “I don’t think people want to be – frankly – as dependent on China in the global supply chain anymore,” Mr Harcourt says. Certainly some will bring their manufacturing back home, he predicts, while many others will trade and work more widely around South-East Asia and North-East Asia. St.George’s head of manufacturing and wholesale Matthew Kelly says the early government support to bring more manufacturing back onshore is encouraging. Federal Minister for Industry, Science and Technology, Karen Andrews has already flagged the need to “get behind the push to

Just what policy settings are needed is something many hope the National COVID-19 Coordination Commission – tasked with breaking through bottlenecks and fixing economic and social problems caused by the pandemic – is examining. While the COVID-19 crisis has exposed deficiencies in Australia’s economic approach, Professor Roy Green, Chair of the University of Technology Sydney Innovation Council is asking for a fundamental redesign. He is calling for a new National Industrial Strategy Commission, or similar central agency, to develop priorities in consultation with industry sectors, aimed at growing industries of the future with new technologies, skills and business models. From the Australian government, a robust, properly funded national policy framework is required, while the states should carry much of the responsibility for delivering business services and infrastructure for innovation hubs and industry clustering, he says.

Building capabilities for the future Manufacturers are primed to bounce back and for those who do, the pandemic-induced trend towards collaboration will need to continue into the future. “Collaboration is a key driver for advanced manufacturing,” says Michael Sharpe. “We need more and more companies working together and supporting each other.”

Currently many companies are sharing resources – including staff and skills. “There’s a great community movement happening out there right now,” says Mr Sharpe. He cites the example of metal fabricator Rose Valley Steel Works in Armidale in north-west NSW collaborating with industry counterpart R&R Murphy, four-hours’ drive south, to share knowledge on robotics production. “They are able to support each other across phone calls and sharing knowledge about what it takes to incorporate robotics technology into an engineering firm,” says Mr Sharpe.

Next horizons: what lies ahead? Many Australian manufacturers have been operating at warp speed since coronavirus hit. Their “fluid and fast-moving” response demonstrates beyond measure the smarts of our manufacturing community, says AMGC’s Michael Sharpe. “We’ve got 47,000 manufacturing companies in Australia and I see that as a key strength, because the majority of them are small and family businesses, but the ability to be agile and adapt quickly is a key strength to Australia’s economy.” St.George’s Matthew Kelly is convinced many of the changes adopted to date will stick. He looks to the future of the sector with a fresh positivity. Clear indicators are in simple facts, such as the 30 per cent of manufacturers who, amid the turmoil and uncertainty, have actually changed their processes in recent months, he says. “There needs to be a positive out of this pandemic, and in the vast majority of cases, I think it has been good for the manufacturing industry,” Mr Kelly concludes. This information is general in nature and has been prepared without taking your objectives, needs and overall financial situation into account. For this reason, you should consider the appropriateness for the information to your own circumstances and, if necessary, seek appropriate professional advice.

St.George Bank 0412 265 197 www.stgeorge.com.au/ manufacturing INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

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DELPHI DELIVERS A LOAD CELL RECORD A Queensland bespoke manufacturer has crafted one of Australia’s largest wireless tension load cells, with a lifting capacity of 300 tonnes.

capability to accommodate such orders, including designing and building its own curing oven and portable lifting equipment to manufacture supersized load cells.

solutions across a range of applications and industries, including mining, gas, defence, heavy industry, construction, marine and food and beverage production.

Delphi Measurement answered the call of a client who saw a gap in the market for a “Big Daddy” of load cells, after learning there were none on the entire east coast of Australia.

“We’re well set up now to meet those large-scale orders,” Mike says. “We take pride in being able to deliver exactly what our clients are looking for.

The owner of the “Big Daddy” load cell Queensland Rigging Hire boss Ben Fitzgerald says the cell found fame of its own after he posted news of its arrival on LinkedIn.

can take gear out of the system for months.

“There was a huge response to it in the industry,” Ben says. “It’s a pretty rare, big piece of equipment and it’s great to be able to say that it was designed and manufactured in Australia.”

“It’s been great to be able to source good quality and well-priced equipment made in Australia. You also get the service too and that’s a big reason we keep going back.”

Ben says he was confident Delphi was the company for the job, having purchased more than 30 Delphi load cells since he launched his business five years ago.

It’s a glowing endorsement of Delphi, an Australian manufacturer committed to delivering solutions, not just products.

Queensland Rigging Hire approached Delphi to see if it was up for the challenge of manufacturing a customised large-scale load cell at its Burleigh Heads factory. “The largest we’d previously made was 250 tonnes,” Delphi co-owner Mike Leonard says. “But we were confident we had the equipment and the skills to do it.” This “can do” attitude is at the heart of Delphi’s reputation as a small Australian manufacturer holding its own in a market rife with ready-made, often lower quality overseas product. Delphi has consistently invested in larger machining and material handling

“For us, it’s always about quality and making sure that everything is 100 per cent right.” The cell was too large for Delphi to calibrate in-house so it was sent away to an independent calibration lab where it achieved Class A accuracy across its range. “We were pretty proud of that,” Mike says. Delphi has been specialising in customised load cells, load pins, tension cells and force measurement equipment for more than three decades. The company is highly valued by its clients for coming up with bespoke

“Going with Delphi is honestly the best decision I’ve made for the business,” Ben says. “A lot of my other equipment comes from Europe and to get it serviced, I have to send it back overseas. It’s expensive and it

It certainly underscores the company’s unofficial motto: “no job is too big or too small”. Delphi Measurement (07) 5508 2498 www.delphimeasurement.com

NEW RISC-V RESOURCE PAGE FROM MOUSER Mouser Electronics, the New Product Introduction leader empowering innovation, has created a new resource site dedicated to RISC-V, an open source instruction set architecture (ISA).

Things (IoT). RISC-V is supported by a worldwide community that believes in the sharing of ideas inherent to the open source vision.

development kits.

RISC-V offers exceptional freedom for extensible hardware and software on architecture, as it is unconstrained by proprietary architecture standards.

Mouser’s new RISC-V resource site features articles on several innovative uses of the technology, such as internetconnected AI facial detection, open source security, and flexible processor design.

Mouser offers a broad selection of RISC-V-based devices, including the Microchip Technology PolarFire SoC FPGA Icicle Kit. The kit is a low-cost platform that enables reliable computing for applications including industrial automation, IoT devices, and automotive applications.

The open source ISA is a key factor in the continued development of revolutionary technologies such as 5G, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of

The site also explores some of the key strategies used in RISC-V development, and includes videos and product information for RISC-V-based

The Terasic Technologies T-Core FPGA MAX 10 development board is a robust hardware design platform that supports protocol bridging, analog-to-

digital conversion, and motor control drive. Engineers and designers can access the comprehensive new site by visiting https://resources.mouser.com/risc-v Mouser Electronics +852 3756 4700 au.mouser.com

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FEBRUARY / MARCH 2021

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NSW BUILDS WORLD-CLASS INTERMODAL HUB Construction is underway for the Riverina Intermodal Freight and Logistics hub which will enable the exporting of freight across Australia and abroad.

NSW Nationals MLC Wes Fang said the project will deliver incredible benefits to the Riverina, cementing its reputation as a manufacturing and freight hub.

Deputy Premier John Barilaro said the development of the 60-hectare Bomen Industrial Precinct near Wagga Wagga is fantastic news for the Riverina region, boosting the capacity to share our exports with the world.

“This is a great example of how state and local governments can work together with industry to deliver projects that will benefit regional communities and economies in the Riverina for generations to come,” said Mr Fang.

“This precinct will make Wagga Wagga a major player in domestic and international freight export, making the town even more attractive to local and international businesses,” said Mr Barilaro. “This intermodal facility will be a worldclass business hub servicing the region’s advanced manufacturing, recycling and renewables industries and help local businesses reap the benefits of the Inland Rail and Wagga Wagga Special Activation Precinct.” With a view to creating vital jobs in the region, the NSW Government is investing $43.7 million in the project – due for completion by mid-2022 – and has significant investment from Wagga Wagga City Council and commercial partner Visy Logistics.

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Paul Toole, said the RIFL hub, the Inland Rail and the Wagga Wagga Special Activation Precinct will work hand in hand to fast-track access to national and international markets for regional businesses and products. “When completed, this hub will give regional businesses ready and cost-effective access to markets across Australia and around the world, and there’s never been a more important time as we recover from drought, bushfires and the Covid-19 pandemic,” said Mr Toole.

“It’s also going to reduce the number of trucks moving through the Wagga Wagga central business district, giving local roads back to the local community. “The upgrade will provide the precinct with enabling infrastructure and a 4.9-kilometre master rail siding and container transfer terminal. “Preliminary site preparation work and earthwork activities are already underway, ahead of the construction of power, stormwater and sewerage connections to the industrial precinct and the laying of rail tracks and turnouts.”

Wagga Wagga City Council Mayor, Greg Conkey, said it was exciting to finally see the start of site works on the ground-breaking investment in the city and its surrounds. “It has been 15 years in the making and it is an example of a genuine partnership between state and local government and industry,” said Mr Conkey. “The RIFL hub terminal will be the core for future growth and expansion in the Bomen Special Activation Precinct, generating up to 6,000 jobs in this region, and has the potential to drive the economic future of the city for decades.”

SCLAA HIGHLY COMMENDED AUTOMATION SOLUTION: SAFELY STORES 6 CLASSES OF DANGEROUS GOODS

SCAN THE QR CODE BELOW TO SEE THIS AUTOMATION IN ACTION

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2021

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RADIO-CONTROLLED ROBOTS HELP LINFOX BLAZE PATHWAY TO WAREHOUSE AUTOMATION

The world’s most compact and secure goods-to-person automated storage and retrieval systems is being used by Australia’s largest privately-owned logistics company to deliver speedy and safe service to its client’s customers. The ultra-high density AutoStore system, powered by Swisslog, has been chosen by logistics leader Linfox for a new consumer products facility in western Sydney. The facility accommodates more than 20,000 bins of high value product served by 45 robot-wheeled bins in an automatic storage and rapid despatch system occupying a floor of just 700 square metres. The efficient new automation system received “highly commended” recognition by the Supply Chain & Logistics Association of Australia (SCLAA) in the “Best Supply Chain Management” category of their annual awards held in December 2020. Linfox President, Consumer and Healthcare Group, Kylie Fraser, says the system places Linfox “at the very forefront of efficient automation, a subject about which we are passionate because of the benefits it brings our customers.” “Linfox is leading the way with investment in exceptional supply chains to help our customers grow stronger and work smarter,” Ms Fraser said. “We work with our customers and partners using business insights and technology solutions that create better operational models and performance. “Our valued global consumer goods customer required a bespoke solution to deliver growth through more efficient

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capacity, productivity, accuracy and speed to market. After an extensive selection process to find an automation partner that understood our customer’s needs, we chose Swisslog.” Compared with conventional nonautomated warehousing, AutoStore systems offer a 60 per cent reduction in inventory storage footprint, a 50 per cent increase in picking speed and inventory record accuracy of more than 99.9 per cent. The highly secure but easily operated system is among the latest of more than 500 AutoStore systems delivering such benefits globally, including one employed by the FBI in the USA to safeguard and efficiently manage millions of paper records. It works by using radio-controlled, battery-powered robots which move along a grid on top of stacks of bins. When a picking order comes in, robots lift bins from the stacks and deliver them to the picking station, where an operator verifies the contents and adds picks to the order. The robot then returns the bin to storage. New stock is loaded into bins for storage, and as soon as those bins are stored, they are ready to be picked. Swisslog Australia Managing Director, Francis Meier, says the system is ideal for fast, accurate, secure and clean picking of smaller high-value goods in a greatly reduced space compared with conventional warehousing. The rapidly expandable and adaptable system is ideal, for example, for consumer goods such as sports, fashion, gifts, electronics, beauty and household products, as well as global uses such as medical, surgical, pharmaceutical, high value e-groceries and the huge diversity

of personal items in the rapidly expanding retail and ecommerce markets for which hygienic, safe and secure automated despatch is accelerating post-COVID. “AutoStore systems are very clean and safe, eliminating multiple handling by storing internally up to 100,000 products or more that would otherwise be placed in cages on rows of racks,” says Mr Meier. Mr Meier says Swisslog worked collaboratively with Linfox and its customers to create a solution that increased storage density to decrease the facility’s overall footprint. AutoStore was selected as it could effectively store and manage the customer’s increasing SKU range whilst increasing operational efficiencies.

Stringleman said the Swisslog team developed a software package that would support the operational modes of Linfox’s customer to ensure a seamless transition of daily replenishment, storage, picking and despatch. Ms Fraser says Linfox understands that, to meet changing customer needs, “We need to equip their businesses to be more agile, fast and flexible. This is why traditional supply chain models need to be enhanced through intelligent future-ready technology, like automation.” “Linfox chose Swisslog as our automation partner for our consumer goods customer due to their extensive multinational experience with technologies such as AutoStore and because of:

Linfox’s installation is the first by the diverse logistics company, which employs more than 24,000 people across 10 countries and is one of the most compactly product-dense of any AutoStore installations.

Their proven experience in AutoStore technology with over 200 installed projects in over 20 countries worldwide

AutoStore systems are one of a comprehensive portfolio of Swisslog automation systems for different industries and product types and sizes, including ASRS, automatic conveyor and transport systems, picking and palletising solutions, and flexible and intelligent software solutions.

Their ability to deliver solutions that help us work smarter.

“Swisslog’s easy-to-use SynQ warehouse management software – an essential component of the system – accurately tracks and traces all stock whilst orchestrating the flow of stock for despatch. The flexibility and grid expandability allow for future automation expansion as the customer’s business grows,” says Mr Meier. Swisslog Senior Consultant Paul

Their deep understanding of our customer’s needs, and

“These smart solutions start with high performing teams,” she says. “Together with Linfox’s in-house experts, we are proud to collaborate with customers and partners to develop next-generation automated warehouse solutions.” “This type of automation also gives our people the chance to gain new knowledge and skills in technology-enabled warehouses as we boost the efficiency and capability of our customers’ supply chains.” Swisslog Australia 0416 865 553 www.swisslog.com/en-au

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2021

Working you Working alongside you to help better future future to help build a better At of helping helpingpeople, people,families familiesand andbusinesses businesses AtSt.George St.Georgewe wehave have aa long, long, proud history of like appreciate your yourbusiness businessisisunique. unique.Our Ourteam teamofof likeyou to you tobuild buildaa better better future. future. We appreciate Manufacturing are dedicated dedicatedto todelivering deliveringsolutions solutionsthat that Manufacturingand and Wholesale Wholesale specialists are are specific are specificto toyour your business business needs.

IfIfyou’re business, talk talkto tous ustoday. today. you’reready ready to to fire fire up your business, Matthew Kelly Matthew Head of of Manufacturing & Wholesale Head Wholesale

Manufacturing Manufacturing Wholesale &&Wholesale

0412 265 197 0412 manufacturingwholesale@stgeorge.com.au manufacturingwholesale@stgeorge.com.au

stgeorge.com.au/manufacturing stgeorge.com.au/manufacturing Things you should know: Credit criteria applies. Terms and conditions of products available on request. St.George – A Division of Westpac Banking Corporation ABN 33 007 457 141 AFSL and Australian Things should know: Credit criteria applies. Terms and conditions of products available on request. St.George – A Division of Westpac Banking Corporation ABN 33 007 457 141 AFSL and Australian credityou licence 233714. STG 01757 10/18 credit licence 233714. STG 01757 10/18

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

GROWING MANUFACTURING THROUGH ACTION NOT WORDS We make great things in Australia and we make them well. And as the Prime Minister and I have been saying; we want to continue to make great things here. That belief is central to our Modern Manufacturing Strategy, and indeed all of the policy decisions we make to support our manufacturers. When I’ve been on factory floors over recent months, our manufacturers have told me how much they appreciate the way our Government is backing them to succeed. The recent Budget included billions of dollars in support designed to encourage all businesses, but particularly our manufacturers to invest and grow.

Our extension of the instant asset writeoff is seeing manufacturers invest in new equipment, upgrade production lines and bring work home to Australia. They’re benefiting from our record investments in skills to ensure we have the workers they need. We’re also working to make energy more affordable and reliable, opening up overseas trade markets and addressing the industrial relations framework. It is basic economics – and something often lost on our opponents – that no policy will help businesses to succeed if the economic conditions are not right. But our Strategy also acknowledges that for Aussie manufacturing to grow in

before expanding into Tasmania. The amazing thing about Naturo, is not only are they creating more jobs in their business, they’re opening up exciting export opportunities along the supply chain for our dairy industry to take on the world. Naturo is also helping redefine to everyday Australians what manufacturing is – it’s innovative, it’s highly-skilled and it’s underpinned by research and technology.

the connected world we now live, we need to make science and technology work for industry.

Embracing technology is also central to the second round of the Manufacturing Modernisation Fund.

A wonderful example is Sunshine Coast company Naturo, which I was delighted to visit last month.

There’s been a tremendous response with over 500 applications currently being assessed.

This Queensland business is pushing the envelope of the possible and embracing science to create a world-first right here at home.

Successful applicants will receive between $100,000 and $1 million to improve their processes, grow their businesses and create jobs.

Naturo has developed technology that can extend the expiry of fresh milk to more than 60 days, while making the product nutritionally superior.

It’s just another example of the Morrison Government backing our manufacturers with practical support, rather than rhetoric.

The company is using $1 million in matched funding from our Government to build a pilot manufacturing plant in Coolum,

Because it’s action not words that will see us keep making things well – and by making things well we build a stronger Australia.

MILLION DOLLAR BOOST FOR FEMALE ENTREPRENEURS The federal government is backing female-led startups across Australia with $52.2 million in support to help them scale up and grow their businesses. The Boosting Female Founders Initiative is supporting 51 female-founded startups that are majority owned and led by women, with grants of between $25,000 and $480,000. It is hoped the grant will help female entrepreneurs overcome the disadvantages faced in getting access to finance and support, to grow their business. Round 1 will see $12 million become available for grants. Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews said Australia’s dynamic startup sector played a crucial role in creating new jobs, developing innovative products and boosting the Australian economy. “The road from business idea to global product is already a tough one. But we know female-founded startups face even greater challenges in getting the finance needed to reach their full potential,” she said. “The range of startups being supported is incredible, from an Indigenous-designed digital skills training program for schools, to a project creating 3D printed, customised and comfortable breast prostheses made

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specifically to fit women’s bodies and mastectomy bras. “If we don’t capitalise on great business ideas from half of the population, Australia’s startup and innovation ecosystems will only be half as good as they could be. This investment will strengthen our economy and empower more female entrepreneurs to create more jobs for all Australians.” Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Women, Senator the Hon Marise Payne said the Boosting Female Founders Initiative formed an important part of the government’s 2018 and 2020 Women’s Economic Security Statements, which provide targeted, specific and additional support for women. “Our 2020 Women’s Economic Security Statement includes a further $35.9 million so that the Boosting Female Founders initiative can support up to 282 additional startups and 4,300 women entrepreneurs,” she said. “These targeted grants will help some of the best and brightest women in Australia launch bold new and innovative ideas, and I am very pleased to support this initiative.” The recipients were selected by an independent selection committee of experienced women entrepreneurs led

by Professor Jana Matthews, ANZ Chair in Business Growth and Director of the Australian Centre for Business Growth at the University of South Australia. “We were all delighted by the strength of response to this Initiative – both in the sheer number of responses received, and the extraordinarily high calibre of our successful applicants,” Professor Matthews said. “These successful applicants all presented viable concepts, with strong business plans showing great potential for growth and job creation. The selection committee and I look forward to tracking their progress and applauding their success.”

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enable female founders to scale-up, expand into domestic and global markets, and become self-sufficient

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boost the economy through increasing the diversity of startup founders.

The expansion includes a new mentorship element, supporting more than 4000 mentoring opportunities for women entrepreneurs to help them continue to succeed and grow.

The intended outcomes of the program are:

The objectives of the program are to: •

stimulate private sector investments into innovative startups led by women

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help female entrepreneurs overcome the disadvantages faced in getting access to finance and support to grow their startups

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increased number of startups founded by women

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new products and services are brought to market by startups founded by women

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increased financial investment in startups founded by women

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women improve their earning potential through entrepreneurship

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increased job creation and economic growth.

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2021

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WESTERN AUSTRALIA TO BUILD AUSTRALIA’S LONGEST ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING ROUTE “This announcement represents an exciting time in Western Australia, with the state contributing some of the most significant funds of any Australian jurisdiction towards charging infrastructure that will facilitate the uptake of this environmentally sustainable technology,” Innovation and ICT Minister Dave Kelly said in a joint statement. The charging network will run from Kununurra in the north to the state capital Perth, then down to Esperance in the south and to Kalgoorlie in the east – some 4,130 kilometres total. The EV charging initiative will be accompanied by a target of acquiring at least 25 per cent electric vehicles across eligible vehicles in the state fleet of passenger and small commercial vehicles (but not including police department). EV charging stations will be installed in government buildings.

One of the drawbacks to owning an electric vehicle is the lack of charging infrastructure in remote locations. Well, Western Australia has an answer to that! A desert dash through the outback

in your electric car is on the horizon after the state government announced a $21 million electric vehicle strategy, which will include the creation of Australia’s longest EV charging network.

The WA government is looking to join the global shift to electric vehicles, seeing opportunities to create “battery minerals”, as well as possibly a battery manufacturing industry in the state. “The global uptake of electric vehicles is one of the most exciting opportunities for Western Australia

to create jobs and support economic growth the economy as part of the lowcarbon transition,” Labor premier Mark McGowan said in the joint statement. “Electric vehicles provide a pathway towards decarbonising road transport and improving air quality in Western Australia. The industry also has huge potential to create jobs for Western Australians. “Western Australia has the skills, infrastructure and standards to become a key player in the global battery value chain. The state government will also invest in two hydrogen refuelling stations, launch investigations into vehicle-to-grid charging, and the trial of electric buses on a small route in Perth. The policy document notes that there are already more than 500,000 electric buses on the roads across the globe and that EVs are likely to be already competitive with fossil fuel cars over the lifetime costs of the car, and that they deliver significant benefits.

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INDUSTRY POLITICS THE HON: BRENDAN O'CONNOR - MP PARLIAMENT OF AUSTRALIA, SHADOW MINISTER FOR EMPLOYMENT AND INDUSTRY

DEFENCE MUST REDUCE OUR RELIANCE ON OVERSEAS MANUFACTURING

Since I last wrote for Industry Update Manufacturing Magazine there have been some significant changes to my role within the Federal Labor Party. In January I changed portfolios to become the Shadow Minister for Defence and Ed Husic has now become the Shadow Minister for Industry and Innovation. This is a great fit for Mr Husic who has a long-held interest in technology and science and has been vocal about the need for Australia to think ahead about the impact of technology on business, jobs and communities. I know he will be a fantastic champion for Australian manufacturing. Even though I have changed portfolios I am very pleased to be able to transfer my knowledge and experience with Australian manufacturing to the defence industry, one of the largest industry sectors in Australia. There are currently over 3,000 business already working in the Australian defence industry. In my new role I will advocate for Australian industry content within defence, along with my colleague Matt Keogh the Shadow Minister for Defence Industry, to ensure the Government implements contractual requirements that compel defence prime companies to do CAPS

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defence industry work here in Australia and work with local companies. The Australian Government is spending $270 billion on defence procurement and we need to maximise the local component of that spend. We are committed to ensuring major defence project contracts and procurements contain measurable, enforceable, audited and transparent Australian industry content requirements. We know the Morrison Government has broken its promises on local content and does not have a serious plan for Australian defence industry, and for this we must hold them to account. Through COVID-19 we have seen the need for Australia to become not only more self-reliant, but also more ambitious to protect and promote our interests in the world. As an island nation, it is important that Australian defence manufacturing becomes more self-sufficient. Labor wants to ensure that our defence industry has the local content to increase our sovereign capability and reduce our reliance on overseas manufacturing. To build this sovereign capability, Australian businesses

need a fair go at winning defence contracts. We want to see local manufacturers have access to these contracts and be a part of the Australian defence industry supply chain. When we talk about Australian industry content this is more than just about creating local jobs and an opportunity for Australian businesses to be a part of the local supply chain for assets being built here in Australia, it is also the ability to be a part of a global supply chain. We want to see an Australian defence industry that is building our own sovereign capabilities with the capacity to not only deliver the best for the Australian defence force, but also exporting Australian products to the world. I want to see our local manufacturers provided opportunities to not just supply our local defence market, but also the international market, and to build our export opportunities. We know there are limitations with some Australian manufacturing competing with lower cost nations. However, I believe it is in the advanced manufacturing sector where Australia can not only compete, but outperform other countries. To do that we need to see a serious commitment to workforce development, making sure we have the right people with the right knowledge. Defence has a series of long term projects, such as our Future Submarine program, that needs long term thinking with workforce skills and training. We need a significant workforce not just in the skilled trades but with advanced technical knowhow and capability. Labor will work constructively with the Government and provide bipartisan support to efforts to ensure Australia has robust defence resilience. But when they fail to offer the promised local content, fail to prepare our workforce for the future or fail to deliver projects on time or on budget we will hold them to account.

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FEBRUARY / MARCH 2021

INDUSTRY POLITICS THE HON. SENATOR KIM CARR, FORMER MINISTER AND SHADOW MINISTER FOR INNOVATION, INDUSTRY, SCIENCE AND RESEARCH

COVID POWERS NEED URGENT APPROVAL, BUT SCRUTINY IS ESSENTIAL TO PROTECT AUSTRALIAN DEMOCRACY As Australian industry clicks back into gear after the lockdowns and disruption of 2020, it is important to reflect on the way the pandemic has changed the way we are governed. Governments have played a vital role in suppressing community transmission of Covid-19, thereby making a safe return to work possible. The lockdowns were necessary even though they caused hardship. But there is a more worrying aspect of government activity that is likely to outlast all the lockdowns and travel restrictions, the mask-wearing and the social-distancing rules. It is something that affects all Australians and the industries that employ them, yet few people are aware of it. In a democracy like Australia, people expect that when governments want to change the laws under which we are governed the proposed changes will be submitted to the scrutiny of Parliament. A Bill – a draft law – becomes an Act – the law of the land – after it has been debated in, and passed by, Parliament. At least, that’s the theory. But it is not always how the system actually works. In a complex modern society like Australia, laws have to be constantly tweaked and fine-tuned to work effectively. There is always more legislation than Parliament can deal with by debating it fully. The solution has been for Parliament to delegate some of its powers to ministers and the senior public servants who advise them, so that laws can be changed by regulation rather than legislation. This happened even before the pandemic, and it happens in other democracies with which we usually compare ourselves – in the US, for example, President Biden spent his first day in office signing a stack of executive orders that reversed many decisions of the Trump administration. The pandemic has, however, made a difference. The amount of delegated legislation has increased, partly because Parliament sat less often in 2020 but

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2021

also because the Government had to act quickly. What is worrying is that the safeguards intended to prevent abuse of the system have been weakened too. The Senate Standing Committee for the Scrutiny of Delegated Legislation, a bipartisan body, monitors laws made by the executive, and these can be disallowed by a vote in Parliament. Disallowance votes are the chief means by which Parliament keeps control of delegated legislation. Yet about 20 per cent of the 249 items of delegated legislation made in response to Covid-19 were exempted from disallowance by Parliament. That is an alarmingly high figure. It includes six rules that allocate $2.13 billion of public funds, and other rules removed from the oversight of Parliament included travel bans on citizens and limits on entry to certain areas.

Under a 2020 amendment to a delegated instrument known as the Disability (Access to Premises – Buildings) Standards 2010, four Australian Standards and Volume Three of the National Construction Code are incorporated into the instrument. Anyone who has had to consult Australian Standards knows that there are contentious issues about obtaining access to them and whether it can be done for free. Yet the amendment does not enlighten potential users on these matters. Nor is it made clear how the National Construction Code is to apply. Will it be Volume Three of the Code as in force at

a particular time? Or as it is in force from time to time? These are technical questions, but those who work in manufacturing and construction understand how much depends on technicalities. The Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation has written to the Attorney-General asking him to clarify what should have been made clear in the amendment. And, the committee is conducting an inquiry into the deeper issue of the mushrooming growth of delegated legislation. The inquiry’s interim report was tabled in December. About half of all legislation is now delegated. For the sake of Australian democracy, it is time for Parliament to insist that where greater power is given, greater scrutiny must go with it. Kim Carr is a Labor Senator for Victoria and a former Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research. He is Deputy Chair of the Senate Standing Committee for the Scrutiny of Delegated Legislation.

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Australians should be especially concerned by Covid-19 measures made under the provisions of the Biosecurity Act, which confers extremely broad powers on the executive branch of government.

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Under this Act, the Government can make delegated legislation that severely restricts personal rights and liberties, and which overrides any other Australian law. All such delegated legislation is exempt from disallowance, and failure to comply with the Health Minister’s directions can incur a fine of up to $63,000 and imprisonment for up to five years. It is the exemption from disallowance that is pernicious. In times of extreme danger, such as wars and pandemics, some rights and liberties we normally take for granted might have to be temporarily curtailed. But that makes the safeguard provided by a disallowance vote even more important. The growth in the amount of delegated legislation, which began even before the pandemic, is affecting the livelihoods of Industry Update readers too.

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WORKPLACE SAFETY

AUSTRALIAN-FIRST 3D SAFETY TECHNOLOGY TRIAL FOR WA with the exclusion zone. The TMC evaluates the current position of the machine against a predefined three-dimensional model of the restricted area. If any part of the excavator ‘touches’ the invisible barrier, TMC sends a signal to the machine to stop by disabling all operator inputs, ensuring the operator is no longer able to continue on their current path of movement. This barrier can be set by site managers, but once the barrier is set there is no need to update the barrier, as the GPS system is always aware of the location of the machine, even if it moves beyond its original location. “Many ‘2D’ height and slew-limiting systems exist on the market today, but they aren’t nearly as effective and can be prone to more human error,” said Brady.

Three Australian companies are teaming up to trial a revolutionary safety technology to prevent massive machinery from entering restricted areas at mine sites and improve work safety. Downer, Australia’s leading provider of integrated services, along with Coates Hire and SITECH WA, Western Australia’s premier mining and construction technology solutions provider, have partnered to trial an Australia-first technology that promises to deliver enhanced safety for construction and mine sites. Called the 3D Avoidance Zone System it will be used to elevate safety at construction and mine sites through the deployment of a unique, invisible ‘digital barrier’ which can shut down atrisk equipment the instant the barrier is touched. Already deployed successfully on New Zealand train systems by KiwiRail, the technology promises to dramatically reduce accidents and increase safety in construction areas which are being undertaken within tight areas or nearby critical infrastructure. “The system will be used as further mitigation against potential to ‘foul’ the rail danger zone, over and above to those physical barriers already in place,” said Cormac Brady, General Manager, Western Australia Infrastructure Projects, Downer. “Following a successful trial of the 3D

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Avoidance Zone System, Downer will be able to apply it to our wider rail and civil projects, thus ensuring safety is at the heart of everything we do.” The technology will be trialled for the first time in Australia, with Western Australia chosen as the ideal location for the trial to take place. The location of the trial will not be disclosed. “Construction sites near rail lines and other critical infrastructure are both necessary and fraught with hazards, as excavators increasingly work within tight areas and nearby fast-moving transport,” said James Naylor, Executive General Manager, West, Coates Hire. “Thankfully technology is emerging to ensure these work spaces are safer than

ever before, with Western Australia the first Australian state to benefit through this trial. “This offering is the next stage in our Internet of Things (IoT) strategy. Once completed, Coates Hire customers will benefit from enhanced safety, productivity and monitoring capabilities.” So how does this innovative technology work? An excavator’s position is provided by SITECH WA’s next generation Trimble Machine Control System, Earthworks. Utilising dual Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) technology, the position of the whole of the machine is passed to the Trimble Marine Construction Software (TMC) which compares the machine’s position

“The operator sets the limits manually by putting the machine up to the limit – this increases risk as these ‘2D’ systems are relative. Once the tracks of the excavator move the system needs resetting. “With the SITECH WA’s 3D Avoidance Zone System the restricted area is absolute, and the machine position is always known.” The technology works on a “Traffic Light” system. A Green alert advises workers and managers that the excavator is all clear to proceed operation; an Amber alert advises the worker and site manager that the excavator is approaching the Avoidance Zone, typically usually 0.5m as defined within the TMC software; and a Red alert means the excavator has entered the Avoidance Zone and triggers the machine interlock which overrides the machine’s operation and halts it immediately. “SITECH WA leverages technology in all facets of the construction and mining sectors to improve safety, productivity and efficiency. “Applying this technology to Coates Hire’s equipment helps keep workers and the general public safe along with protecting critical infrastructure is of paramount importance to what we do day in, day out,” said George Harris, Sales Manager, SITECH WA. “This technology can be used in so many different applications on many different machine types. We are excited to partner with both Downer and Coates in this project.”

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2021

WORKPLACE SAFETY

FEDERAL GRANTS AVAILABLE FOR WORKPLACE HEALTH & SAFETY SHOW EXHIBITORS online chats, collaborate to determine your ongoing needs, organise a followup meeting if required – all in one place – drop in and out of the various stands and plan what your ongoing needs are for 2021 and beyond.

Exhibitors at upcoming trade shows may be eligible to receive up to $250,000 funding via the government’s Business Events grant opportunity. The Business Events program provides delegates – including buyers and sellers – with financial support to attend and participate at exhibitions, conferences and conventions. The initiative is intended to instil confidence back into the business events sector and encourage businesses to return to the event forum. Any company, partnership or sole trader is eligible to seek a grant, and looking to exhibit at one of the government’s approved events. The closing date to apply is 30 March 2021, 5.00pm AEDT so act fast. The Workplace Health & Safety Show Sydney 2021 is an Approved

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2021

Business Event. If you exhibit at this event you may be eligible to apply for the grant, claiming up to 50 per cent of the cost of exhibiting from the Australian Government. Headed by Marie Kinsella, CEO International Exhibition & Conference Group, the Workplace Health and Safety Show encompasses a free program of events and opportunities to meet new suppliers, update your knowledge, join discussions, and forge connections.

This year’s event will be held at the Sydney Showground in Homebush on September 7 and 8. As part of the WHSS virtual series there will be an event focusing on mental health taking place on Thursday April 21. It will feature a Virtual Exhibitor Marketplace where exhibitors will be online to launch new products, discuss the latest innovations in workplace safety, meet one-on-one in face to face

With a thirst for business and consumers to meet in-person once again, to network, learn and share expertise, we hope the grant will give you a chance to showcase your company bigger and better! Contact the WHSS team at whssales@iecgroup.com.au to receive a copy of the floor plan and event prospectus for the Workplace Health & Safety Show Sydney. With an appetite from vendors to take part, premium locations will be secured quickly.

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

WORKPLACE SAFETY

DISCOVER WHY THE COLOUR OF HAIR NETS AND BEARD COVERS MATTER The colour of your disposable hygiene apparel is a significant consideration that can differ for food services and manufacturing environments.

advisable that a manufacturer who uses disposable safety apparel considers its colour when paired with the product being processed.

Harcor, a company specialising in hygiene apparel, says that it is always

When it comes to hair restraints, the most common colour hair nets and beard

covers that Harcor supply is white. In most cases this colour is ideal but there are some exceptions. White is a popular choice for hair net and beard cover colour simply because it clearly shows dirt and potential contaminants. It is the perfect colour for most environments. However, in the baking industry for example, where many use ingredients such as flour, do not use white. This is due to the colour being difficult to identify in contrast to the ingredients being processed. Employees involved in food preparation in public view, can often be seen wearing blue, green, yellow, pink or red hair restraints. These colours standout, demonstrating to the public that food preparation hygiene standards are being adhered to. While branding is not high on the

list of priorities regarding food safety, an employee's presentation can represent the company’s brand. Therefore, matching the employee’s uniform could also be a colour consideration. Harcor’s disposable hygiene apparel is used in multiple industries. In addition to standard white and blue hair restraints, Harcor can supply various sizes, styles and colours as special orders. Please note certain stock styles have a single carton minimum order. Nonstock hair restraints are subject to higher minimum order volumes. Harcor offers a wealth of practical knowledge, underpinned with quality hygiene products and reliable service. Contact Harcor for friendly service and advice. Harcor harcor.com.au

WORKER HEARING CHALLENGES RISE AS NVH TAKES A TOLL More than one in six Australians suffers hearing loss, and thanks to an ageing population and more people being exposed to dangerously loud noise, that number is expected to rise in the coming decades. The resulting productivity losses, according to recent figures from Australian hearing care and professional services groups, total more than $16.2 billion, or $4,109 per person. Workers hit disproportionately harder includes those aged in their 50s and 60s, who are often among the most skilled, but also those most affected by hearing loss and prone to further damage from Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH) in the workplace. “The hearing loss figures don’t surprise us, because it has been known for a long time that continual exposure to loud noise is the most common preventable cause of sensorineural hearing loss,” says James Maslin, technical product manager at Air Springs Supply, a distributor for some of the world’s most effective NVH isolators.

to the ear, but also to cut off the noise at source – like crashing metal springs and unsuspended stamping, conveying, compressor, generator and HVAC equipment,” says Mr Maslin. “We are already getting people dropping out of the workforce because of problems with hearing and communicating, and this is costing both the individual and our skills base.” Currently the issues affect men much more than women, but this may change as more women join traditionally male-dominated industries, such as manufacturing, construction, civil engineering, and mining and energy. These are all industries that are seeking to manage their NVH issues, both in the workplace and – in some cases – in surrounding communities. “Hearing protection needs to start as early as possible as the effects of age and noise exposure are additive,” says Mr Maslin. “Noise exposure may cause hearing loss in middle age that would not otherwise occur until old age.

“This is the permanent type of hearing loss which accounts for more than 90 per cent of hearing loss in adults.

“So the problem is major, ongoing, predictable and, in many cases, preventable.”

“So it’s important not only to provide PPE to try to stop noise getting through

Air Springs Supply has decades of first-hand experience of the issue as the

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

national distributor of one globally proven highly effective solution to NVH issue, its Firestone Airmount pneumatic isolators. These ultimate actuators, which support up to 40 tons per unit, not only silence intrusive NVH from machinery and plant, but also are also suitable for suspending and protecting entire structures – including building and electronic facilities – against NVH created by passing rail and road traffic, civil engineering machinery and other ambient NVH. Engineered from tough fabricreinforced rubber, Airmounts are identical in construction to the air springs used in the suspensions of heavy trucks seen

every day on the toughest Australian roads. Super-silent Airmounts – either permanently sealed or fed by standard industrial compressor equipment – range from palm-sized to nearly a metre across, individually supporting weights extending from a few dozen kilos up to more than 40,000kg. They are available in single, double and triple-convoluted types as well as rolling sleeve models. Air Springs 02 8877 5500 airsprings.com.au

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2021

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WORKPLACE SAFETY - CASE STUDY - A-SAFE

PFD FOOD SERVICES IMPROVES WAREHOUSE SAFETY WITH A-SAFE

Safely moving large pallets on forklifts in tight spaces can be a challenging ordeal. Add in staff and pedestrians to that mix and it increases the likelihood of something going awry. That’s why the team at PFD Food Services turned to A-Safe Australasia to improve their Brisbane warehouse workflow and ensure the products supplied to customers are safe and meet food safety requirements. “Like most warehouses, we had steel barriers around our walkways and in front of walls,” says David Pashen, operations manager of the PFD food Services Brisbane warehouse. PFD Food Services is a family-owned company delivering a range of food products and cleaning solutions to the hospitality sector, aged care facilities and schools. “The steel barriers were dull and grey, meaning visual safety was a concern. And because of their age, it was not looking

like it should look, maintenance on it was increasing and it did not do the job which it was put there to do. “When anyone hit the steel barriers, the forklift was damaged, the concrete was damaged or the safety of employees was risked,” he tells Industry Update. A-Safe Australasia has been setting the global standard in workplace safety for almost two decades. From warehouses, cold storage and manufacturing facilities to car parks and airports. They provide rigorously tested and certified industrial impact protection for a range of specialist applications. Services include a site survey, along with product recommendations and costing, as well as expert installation. A-Safe Australasia’s customers benefit from improved workplace safety, increased operational efficiency, as well as reductions in facility maintenance, repair costs and down time. With over 35 years of industry experience, A-SAFE is trusted by some of the world’s best-known brands, including BMW and Amazon.

an impact by cushioning and deflecting impact forces.

“They’re very visible and they actually look like a barrier should.

Mr Pashen came across A-Safe’s recognisable bright yellow polymer products. He had site survey and demonstration and promptly went ahead and installed iFlex bollards and railings, in addition to gates, in 10 per cent of the work areas at PFD Foods.

“It’s neat and tidy and from a safety concern, if you hit one, there is a rebound factor.”

The iFlex Single Traffic Barrier Plus installed at PFD Foods is ideal for hightraffic environments, where pedestrian traffic and heavyweight vehicles both share space. They were so successful in mitigating accidents that more barriers were installed and are currently trialling the A-Safe Rack End Barrier. “Staff interaction is excellent. They don’t seem to hit them as much as they hit the steel,” he says.

Mr Pashen also praised A-Safe’s customer service and installation team, saying the fit-out was quick, efficient and had minimal disruption to the business. “The team that came to Brisbane to install the bollards were absolutely brilliant,” he says. “Our CEO visited recently and she put a huge tick against it. She said it was excellent and would like to see A-Safe installed in some of the other warehouses.”

A-Safe Australasia Pty Ltd 02 9625 8927 www.asafe.com

Designed to stop forklift trucks and other industrial vehicles, their barriers are the most heavily tested safety barriers in the world. A-Safe polymer safety barriers are impact rated, compliant with code of practice PAS 13 Code of Practice for safety barriers used in traffic management within workplaces and verified by TÜV Nord. From light weight pallet trucks to heavier MHE if there is a risk of impact, A-SAFE will have a solution. The flexible, energy-absorbing barriers visually define traffic routes and physically protect pedestrians and drivers in the event of

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2021

WORKPLACE SAFETY

LIFTCO RAISES THE BAR IN CRANE SAFETY available to a preset weight, but it can easily be calibrated on site and can be automatically reset by reducing the load. Easily installed and available for all capacity cranes, the Load Limiters are designed for gantry cranes to limit the load to the design of the crane. This means they cannot pick up anything heavier than the working load limit. The Load Limiter cuts the power to the “UP” contact, therefore preventing the crane from overload. The crane can then easily be lowered.

When it comes to moving heavy objects in warehouses and on worksites, having safe reliable cranes is of prime importance. Overhead cranes are designed to raise and lower only in the vertical position. If the side-winding of a load occurs, damage to the crane will result. To prevent the dangerous and expensive practice of side-pulling, Liftco designed and patented the Side Pull Prevention Device, which works on the angle of the side pull of the rope. Made with LM4 high grade aluminium and mild steel, it acts as a rope guide protector ensuring safety in the workplace as all limits remain operative. In addition, this device also offers various degrees of adjustment to accommodate different angles. It is a very compact unit normally fitted above the moving range of the bottom block so as not to interfere with the normal height of the lift. The Side Pull Prevention Device also stops the dragging of loads, is easily fitted to any crane or hoist and protects the rope guide as well as rope drum and bearings. This results in a reduction in down time and maintenance costs. Another top seller is the Load Limiter, which protects against overloading the crane and supporting structures thereby reducing risk of accidents. Not only is the Load Limiter

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2021

Load Limiters from Liftco are designed to withstand the harshest conditions and can be used in dusty conditions, high heat environments and even galvanising/acid plants. They also stock rope drum and guide protectors, conductor bars and a unique C track system that has been designed with ease of installation and durability in mind. All fittings and trolleys are constructed in glass filled nylon. The galvanised steel rail is joined with a unique G.F.N joiner eliminating the possible misalignment by overtightening. Established in 1991, Liftco Industrial Supplies is a dedicated provider of Liftco devices to the Crane and Manufacturing Industry. All Liftco products help reduce maintenance costs and suit most types of applications for rope and chain, cranes and hoists. The Wollongong-based business are a specialist importer and distributor of cost effective, simple and reliable safety and electrification equipment for overhead cranes. The primary focus of their product range is to improve safety protocols and help reduce repair and maintenance costs on overhead cranes and their devoted team have over 29 years of experience in this industry and are on hand for any enquiries you may have. Liftco Industrial Supplies Pty Ltd (02) 9829 4411 www.liftco.com.au

INDUSTRYUPDATE.COM.AU

MATERIALS HANDLING

WHAT THE FUTURE HOLDS FOR MATERIALS HANDLING

By Trevor Allen and Annamarie Reyes

Senior Director of Integrated Systems at Dematic says many supply chains remain too rigid to handle unanticipated surges in orders.

warehouses and factories. But even the makers of humble pedestrian pallet trucks are benefiting from the retail boom in some markets.”

“As retailers and their supply chains face increasing pressure from sustained consumer demand, implementing automation can no longer be thought of solely as a cost-saving investment.”

In the recent CeMAT Supply Chain Pandemic Response Discussions, industry experts and leaders made their positions and predictions about the future clear.

“We believe that this is the tipping point to accelerate thoughtful investment in automation and software technology to prepare supply chains for major disruptions that spike demand and to better plan for the unpredictable.” Fleur Smits-Straathof, Supply Chain Consultant from Slimstock, said customers were re-evaluating their priorities and it was necessary to embrace the changing landscape and that automation will only increase further in the upcoming years. The ability to be flexible in the face of increasing demands, managing safety issues, and dynamic supply chains and intralogistics infrastructure, amid uncertain border restrictions, has become a priority even with the materials handling sector. The document Looking Intralogistics and Beyond from CeMat Australia, reports that post-pandemic, despite the disruption and deconstruction everywhere, it is an exciting time for accommodating new processes to facilitate efficiency and flexibility in meeting new consumer demands. The new CeMat Australia report, has detailed how the intralogistics and materials handling sectors are progressing post-pandemic.

“Many companies will have learnt from this current situation, and better understand the importance of being able to quickly respond to changing demands.” Allan Leibowitz, a business journalist and editor of forkliftaction.com told CeMat that the manufacturers of materials handling solutions were well placed to ride out the bumps brought on by the pandemic, while those that embrace new technologies are at a distinct advantage. “They have embraced technology to produce solutions ranging from AGVs (Autonomous Guided Vehicles) to robotic warehouse products,” Mr Leibowitz said. “Many of those systems are gaining traction as businesses try to implement coronavirus-safe processes in their

Johannes Fottner, Professor of Logistics Engineering, Technical University of Munich, said that rather than being more conservative with investment, automation will become an even greater priority for those that can. “Smart factories are those with humans working side by side with automated systems. Robots don’t care about viruses, so incorporating them into the supply chain is an advantage.” Abdul Jafar, General Manager, Supply Chain & Quality Assurance at Fantastic Furniture echoed those sentiments, saying he would invest in inventory and systems alike. “I think we’ve all underestimated the importance of the right planning tool and the right planning and inventory team.” Held in six countries, CeMAT is the world’s leading trade show covering intralogistics and materials handling. Organised by Hannover Fairs Australia, a subsidiary of Deutsche Messe.

The CeMAT exhibition will be a onestop-shop of the leading technology and service providers in the materials handling and warehousing industry. CeMAT will pair these organisations with visitors from logistics, warehousing, supply chain, IT & finance job functions from a wide variety of industries ranging from FMCG through to resources. As well as cutting-edge product demonstrations on the showfloor, visitors will also be able to access a Solutions Theatre, which will offer attendees practical take-away solutions to challenges facing end users in the logistics and warehousing industry.

CeMAT AUSTRALIA will be held on the 19-21 July 2022 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.

CeMAT will welcome VIPs and exhibitors officially at the Industry Leaders Drinks Reception. Network in an informal atmosphere with drinks, canapes and special keynote speaker.

In its fourth year, CeMAT AUSTRALIA will be the platform for the latest industry innovations and for exchanging ideas and insights on the warehouse of the future.

CeMat Australia cemat.com.au

AUSTRALIA'S HIGHEST CIRCULATION & MARKET LEADING MANUFACTURING MAGAZINE

MANUFACTURING MEDIA 28

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MATERIALS HANDLING

KONECRANES UPGRADES LEAD THE WAY TO NEW SAFETY AND EFFICIENCY position them more accurately. A variety of automated features can be added in crane modernisation projects. For instance, cranes in busy, congested facilities can be automated to run on selected safe travel paths and automated zone control allows a crane to be programmed to operate only in certain areas. Another high-tech upgrade is distance-detection control, which senses proximity of other cranes on a runway to prevent collisions, while updated cabs also enhance safety and productivity by providing operators a better view of their surroundings and increased comfort. Konecranes crane modernisation services encompass a progressive range of cost-efficient solutions extending up to TRUCONNECT Remote Monitoring, which can be added to Konecranes equipment as well as cranes made by other manufacturers.

Nearly all industries depend on electric overhead travelling cranes for their heavyweight maintenance, manufacturing and process needs. With this resurgence in demand for electric overhead travelling cranes, there is a renewed focus on achieving the highest standards of reliability, costefficiency and safety. “Many cranes have been underutilised in recent times, but are substantially sound and can achieve strong cost-efficiency, lifespan and safety gains by being modernised rather than replaced,” says Mark Beckwith,

Operations Manager, Konecranes and Demag Pty Ltd. “Some older cranes just won’t be able to compete with the efficiency of new crane technologies, but for others, overhead crane modernisation can present a cost-saving alternative to buying new equipment.”

Less weight, increased productivity, enhanced safety As well as being a leading global supplier of new cranes and the most advanced crane technologies,

Konecranes is the world’s largest crane service organization, with more than 600,000 assets of all major brands under service contract worldwide. Modernisation substantially reduces the weight of older cranes, as new motors, trolleys, hoists and other components are significantly lighter than original equipment. Enhanced safety also is a key consideration. Sway control technology, one of the more popular safety upgrades in crane modernisation projects, prevents loads from swinging, while enabling operators to move loads faster and

The system collects condition, usage and operating data from control systems and sensors on an asset and provides alerts of certain anomalies. Remote Monitoring data is used in maintenance planning and in predicting possible component or equipment failure. “Sometimes the best option may be a new crane. But the number of existing cranes out there is huge, and many properly maintained cranes can be cost-efficiently modernised,” Mr Beckwith concludes. Konecranes 1300 937 637 konecranes.com

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MATERIALS HANDLING

MI-CON ‘FLAT PACK’ MODULAR CONVEYOR SYSTEM ELIMINATES EQUIPMENT REDUNDANCY Leading materials handling manufacturer Enmin has recently launched a revolutionary new modular conveyor system. Called Mi-CON (Modular Incline Conveyor System), it is the ﬁrst hygienically designed full wash down system to offer multiple standardised components, providing maximum flexibility and allowing customers to select what will best suit their specific product and production needs. For more than 40 years, Enmin has built custom material handling solutions for a myriad of products, applications and environments. “We recognised the industry demand for flexible, reliable, cost effective equipment and that’s what led us to designing our Mi-CON modular conveyor system,” Enmin General Manager, Anthony Gallaher said. “The key benefit of this modular system is that it eliminates equipment redundancy and expands with the customer’s business. It can be added to, extended and modified in the years ahead as a company’s production needs evolve,” he added.

Mi-CON is the only conveyor system on the market that can be delivered flat packed in a box, allowing fast and costeffective delivery and simple installation by the customer’s maintenance team.

The flexible modular design coupled with a range of standard parts and components, ensures suitability for multiple applications.

It can also be delivered to the customer partially complete or fully complete for quicker installation and commissioning.

Fully Australian made, the Mi-CON system is constructed of 304 stainless steel and all components and running gear used is FDA approved and suitable for a full wash-down environment. A range of accessories is available that allows the customer to semicustomise the conveyor to suit the type of product they are handling or the site’s operational requirements. All items have been hygienically designed to meet the toughest of OH&S standards whilst maintaining flexibility and quality. The modular intermediate section can be used to extend the available in-feed and out-feed sections and also increase the overall discharge height of the conveyor. With two standard belt widths of 500 and 700mm and incline angle options of 60 and 75 degrees, the mi-con will suit a wide variety of applications and space constraints.

The system can utilise either a PU flat, scooped cleated wave wall, or a plastic modular design, depending on the application. Other Enmin conveyor options include accumulation, takeaway, bag conditioning / flattening delivery conveyors and packing tables – all designed to fit perfectly with the Mi-CON system. “We are confident our new MiCON system will revolutionise product conveying equipment and provide years of economical, trouble free operation for a multitude of product applications. Like all Enmin products, advanced design, outstanding build quality and reliability is a given,” said Mr Gallaher. “We believe that the market potential for the product is huge as it can be utilised by any food and ingredient manufacturing facility,” Mr Gallaher summed up. Based in Melbourne, Enmin is an Australian market leader in the areas of standard and non-standard materials handling systems and applications. They have extensive experience and expertise in vibratory equipment and their list of customers includes most leading food industry manufacturers. Enmin 03 9800 6777 www.enmin.com.au

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industry update ad.indd 1

dustry update ad.indd 1

30/08/2011 5:25:30 PM

2/6 Taronga Place, Mona Vale NSW 2103 www.serpent-dove.com.au 30/08/2011 5:25:30

MATERIALS HANDLING - CASE STUDY - TENTE

TENTE PUTS THE WHEELS IN MOTION FOR WOODS FURNITURE Swivel range of Tente castors to do the job. They feature a twin wheel castor with high manoeuvrability, directional lock for improved steering around bends, central locking at the touch of a button and was awarded prestigious prizes by international juries for its design. Tony highlights the flexibility and adaptability of the Linea range. It can not only withstand the rigours of use on a storage trolley, but can also be used on mobile seats.

computer desks, workstations, staff desks, chairs, storage cabinets and meeting tables all feature mobility as a priority. Ease of mobility and a clean, modern design are both necessary when creating products for use in schools and universities. For teachers and their often rowdy students, building a sturdy chair or table starts from the ground up. That’s where Tente comes in. Since 1923, Tente’s range, designs and practices prioritise safety, ergonomics and efficiency. Their market-leading wheels and castors fit seamlessly with the mobile tables, chairs and storage units that Woods Furniture offers. Australian supplier of educational furniture Woods Furniture, designs and manufactures products for 3500 educational institutions including preschools, kindergartens, primary schools, high schools and tertiary institutions across Australia, New Zealand and the Middle East. Their ranges of classroom tables,

Based out of their Brooklyn, Victoria headquarters, Woods Furniture relies on Tente castors and wheels for all its requirements and believe in delivering a high quality product that is both durable and reliable.

Tony points to the strong client and business relationship that Woods has with Tente as a feature of its supply chain solutions.

“They are also aesthetically pleasing,” he adds. “Rather than just having a black castor or a castor that might have a metal casing, Tente have sleek modern features.” Where possible, all products are designed to be mobile and be manoeuvrable by teachers and schoolaged children alike. Indeed, many of Woods Furniture’s own customers point to their products’ modern designs, comfort, sturdiness and longevity as defining features, with Tente wheels at the forefront of mind. “Compared to previously where may have had complaints about a castor breaking, now we don’t. That’s the big difference – there are reduced breakages and customer complaints,” says Tony.

Similarly, the Woods STEM Learning Bench enables four students to comfortably work around with essential material storage. STEM based learning requires tables capable of multiple purpose and flexibility and the four heavy duty castors and rigid frame allows the product to be flexible in learning spaces. Woods Furniture uses the Linea Light

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The long-lasting partnership has developed from simple beginnings almost

Tente have an extensive range of products to fit almost any requirement. They have a wide capacity for its castors’ performance – from tiny pedestal or chair castors to heavy industrial castors and wheel solutions.

“Tente probably do have the best castors for the furniture industry. They are a great product,” says Tony.

The Woods Mobile Storage Trolley relies on Tente’s wheels as they have the strength and durability to withstand the constant demands of being handled by students in classrooms and school hallways.

The Jumper Air Move – an office chair designed for an ergonomic, dynamic seating posture – has both comfort and style, which Tente’s Linea castor has in spades.

mobile to make it easier on the end user, we’ll certainly do that.”

10 years ago and they’ve since switched all their mobile products over to Tente castors and wheels. The Woods Furniture product development team always have the castors in mind when designing a new range. They have several products in the pipeline that all utilise Tente castors and expect to launch a new storage range in mid-2021. “Any storage type units we produce, where possible, we make them mobile with Tente castors and wheels,” says Tony. “If the product is oversize – you have to take safety into consideration – but where possible, if we can make a product

“Having a point of contact here that my team can go to and knowing that they are readily available is important,” says Tony, who adds that Tente’s commitment to serve as key. “We also do research on businesses to ensure they have the same morals and ethics as ourselves. “The more you look into it and the more you explore it, the more you realise there’s so many more opportunities to be able to evolve. And we find Tente to be a similar company.” Tente Castors & Wheels 1300 836 831 www.tente.com.au

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2021

MATERIALS HANDLING

ADVENT OF SWITCHABLE PERMANENT MAGNETIC CLAMPS permanent magnets a boon for applications in work-holding, clamping and lifting. The Mag-Mate range of switchable magnetic clamps and devices is a leader in the field and has achieved recognition for strength, ease of use, and quality. For users, switchable permanent magnet technology means safety, timesaving in set-up and removal, strong, positive clamping and a device that does not retain iron particles and swarf. Pictured are just a few of the MagMate clamps available from Serpent & Dove—Applied Magnetics designed to make the tasks of welders, jig-makers and steel fabricators less frustrating and less time-consuming.

As long ago as the 1950’s and 60’s, switchable permanent magnets were produced and used as clamps and magnetic chucks. With the discovery and development of rare earth magnet materials in the 1980’s onward, greater strengths from smaller volumes of magnetising material became possible. As materials such as neodymium-

boron-iron moved to mass production and costs came down this in turn enabled the economic development of improved switchable magnets.

Today there are several different methods and magnetic circuit types used to achieve results and users have found the convenience of switchable

Serpent & Dove Applied Magnetics Pty Ltd www.serpent-dove.com

GROWTH

THAT’S WHAT YOU WANT AND WHY WE CREATED Mi-CON.

The first hygienically designed full wash down conveyor system to offer standardised components. Delivered flat packed in a box.

Manufactured in Australia

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2021

• • • • •

Eliminates equipment redundancy and expands with your business Can be added to, extended and modified in the years ahead Provides maximum flexibility to suit your product and production needs Is suitable for any food and ingredient manufacturing facility FDA approved components

| T: +61 3 9800 6777 | W: enmin.com.au

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MATERIALS HANDLING

COST-EFFICIENT THERMOPLASTIC SOLUTIONS FOR FOOD AND BEVERAGE PROCESSING Applications for thermoplastics with high heat and moisture tolerance are now used in processing, materials handling and food packaging machinery. They include high quality engineered plastic extrusions and wear components for conveyor systems, packaging machines, pumps, valves, sheaves, rollers, racks and guides used in bakery, fruit, meat, fish, poultry, pharmaceutical and product processing lines. That’s why Cut To Size Plastics, an organisation with more than 50 years’ experience in thermoplastics, is best placed to supply durable and clean, easy to handle products. “In addition to thermoplastics’ longestablished hygienic uses in stand-alone items – such as cutting and chopping boards – we are seeing expanding component applications of thermoplastics in OEM machinery where heat and moisture is a determining factor,” says Laurie Green, Managing Director of Cut To Size Plastics. When selecting a plastic material for a specific application, it is important to base the

choice on critical properties associated with the task, such as thermal expansion, or the plastic’s ability to change in shape, area, and volume in response to temperature changes. The coefficient of thermal expansion is the degree of expansion divided by the change in temperature. The higher the coefficient number, the more change in size. The WEARLON nylons range from Cut To Size Plastics are well-suited for use in food contact applications, such as food processing and packaging conveyor systems. The WEARACE polyacetal range, while typically specified for handling lesser loads than nylons, is eminently suitable and highly cost-efficient for sliding, guiding and roller elements of materials handling machinery. Being physiologically inert, WEARACE is highly suitable for food contact applications in natural form. UHMW Polyethylene is a thermoplastic polyethylene featuring extremely high molecular density. It’s highly durable, with the highest impact resistance of all thermoplastics with great abrasion and heat resistance.

Cut To Size can offer both local and global expertise to companies considering thermoplastic components for food and beverage applications, including conveyor or transport systems that are subject to extreme temperatures or temperature changes where thermal expansion characteristics are important. “It is important to say there is no one ideal answer to all applications – whether they be metals or engineering thermoplastics – but it is certainly essential to consider all the

options,” says Mr Green. Where required, Cut To Size can draw on the globally respected expertise of its international suppliers who offer decades of experience in its field and laboratory facilities in which materials are tailored to individual customer needs. Cut To Size 1800 288 274 www.cuttosize.com.au

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.

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MATERIALS HANDLING

METAL SPINNER KICKS GOAL WITH YAWEI MACHINES Family-owned company Tighe Metal Spinners have been “spinning” metal since the 1960’s. Operated by brothers Rod and Jeff Tighe the company has been involved in the specialised area of metal spinning (also known as metal forming), a process by which sheet metal is rotated at high speed over a mandrel to form round metal parts for domestic or commercial use. Nowadays, metal products can be spun using one piece of material to produce parts without seams or welds. Without seams, a part can withstand higher internal or external pressure exerted onto it. One of the more unique products that Tighe Metal Spinners produces each year is the AFL Premiership Cup for Cash’s Australia – something they have been doing since 1999. The company has invested in two Yawei machines – a PBH 110-3100 CNC5 pressbrake and an HLE-1530 2kW fibre laser – which has given them a leading edge

and made the process of spinning even easier. “We wanted a laser cutter primarily to cut our circles rather than use a guillotine and circle cutter,” said Owner/Directors Jeff and Rod Tighe. “We’re more than happy with the Yaweis and the quality of our cuts and what gets fed into the pressbrake and lathes is A1. It has also opened up new markets and opportunities for us.” The Yawei brand was recommended by an associate in the manufacturing sector who’d had first-hand experience of Yawei’s excellent quality and performance; this included a very positive report on the back-up and support provided by Applied Machinery. Whilst the Yawei brand was a big attraction, it was Applied’s impressive local set-up that cemented the deal. “When we viewed the Yawei fiber laser at Applied’s factory we were amazed at how

quick it was and the fact it could complete the whole process in one operation – and of course produce a far more accurate cut,” said Jeff and Rod.

easy to introduce the Yawei’s many features to all our staff and ensuring we got the most out of the machines,” they added.

“The fact they had a good reputation in the market, a full showroom where they could demonstrate machines, coupled with large numbers of technical service and support staff to provide the all important back-up – that’s what made us buy.

“Both Yawei machines have exceeded our expectations. It has opened up new markets and opportunities for us and will ensure we can continue to offer outstanding customer service and the highest quality products.”

“The whole purchase and installation process was seamless; from the top down all staff are excellent. Matt Keogh (Technical Manager) taught us one-on-one, making it

Applied Machinery 03 9706 8066 www.appliedmachinery.com.au

Smart thinking in motion

Hyge n i us

™

Hygienic washdown conveyor

Meat Poultry Small Goods Seafood Dairy Fruit Veggies ■ Rapid, easy cleaning. Reduce contamination risk and improve food safety ■ Minimal surfaces removes hidden and hard to clean crevices - washdown rated ■ Only 2 minutes to disassemble and reassemble for cleaning and no tools required. Reduces cleaning costs and lost production ■ Designed to certified hygienic standards ■ Safe. Fully guarded head and tail ■ Customiseable. Virtually any dimensions. Options for inclines, declines and side guides

australiseng.com.au FEBRUARY / MARCH 2021

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MATERIALS HANDLING

MONASH LAUNCHES STATE-OF-THE-ART FACILITY TO TEST SAFETY OF INFRASTRUCTURE, SAVE LIVES A state-of-the-art impact testing facility designed to boost the structural safety of present and future high-risk infrastructure has been launched at Monash University. The National Drop Weight Impact Testing Facility (NDWITF) will have world-leading technology that can observe the behaviour of elements under severe impact loading of up to two tons. Funded through an ARC LIEF grant, the facility will support research in construction, mining, energy and the environment and will place Australia at the forefront of impact engineering research. Project leader and Associate Professor Amin Heidarpour, Head of Structural Engineering at Monash University, said the facility has the potential to help workplaces across Australia and hopefully save lives. “Understanding the behaviour of

construction and geo-materials under dynamic loading is essential in dealing with various engineering problems, such as protective structures design and impact cratering, excavation and mining, blasting and fragmentation, and risk management,” Associate Professor Heidarpour said. “A state-of-the-art impact engineering facility provides a national research focus on behaviour of construction materials and systems under impact loading with unique observation techniques. “This will ensure Australia is at the forefront of impact engineering research in the international arena, promoting local innovation and industrial competitiveness contributing to the safeguarding of Australia, saving lives and reducing losses.” It has the capacity to assess the structural safety of high-risk infrastructure across Australia, including railway

E-DRIVE FLEX STARTING ASSISTANCE DRIVE WHEEL

GETS HEAVY LOADS MOVING EFFORTLESSLY

Easy starting, driving & stopping of heavy trolleys Can be fitted to most existing trolleys Increase manpower performance by saving effort Prevent neck, back, shoulder and wrist pain Improved tracking stability when mobilising heavy loads Inﬁnite speed regulation (forward and reverse)

Contact Tente Castors & Wheels To Find Your Product Solution Phone: 1300 836 831 sales.au@tente.com tente.com.au 36

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FEBRUARY / MARCH 2021

MATERIALS HANDLING networks, tunnels and bridges, buildings and construction materials, as well as road safety barriers and protective equipment. The performance of structures subjected to impact loading has received worldwide attention. The catastrophic failure of construction materials caused by extreme impact conditions, such as natural disasters and man-made hazards, has justified the need to carry out comprehensive research in order to develop future infrastructure with new, innovative, cost-effective and environmentally friendly materials. The NDWITF have been constructed with a 2000kg impact mass that has the capacity to create an impact energy of up to 200,000 J and impact velocity of up to 18m/s. Impact loading can be applied to specimens with a width of up to 1m and length of up to 2m. All displacements recorded within each test is captured by an optical 3D photogrammetry system. A key partner in this project is Austeng, a Geelong-based engineering company who engineered, manufactured, and installed the facility in line with the University’s requirements. “Austeng was proud to be part of this

important project and collaborate with Monash University and I am delighted our team was able to deliver a practical and workable solution given the stringent performance parameters set by Monash and the significant engineering challenges involved,” said Ross George, Austeng Managing Director. The NDWITF will also support research in the broader research community on construction, mining, geomechanics, energy and the environment. Fields of application and interest include construction materials under high strain loading, structural dynamics and engineering, mining excavation and rock fragmentation. The facility located at Monash University’s Department of Civil Engineering, was part of a collaboration involving six other universities, including the University of New South Wales, Swinburne University of Technology, Queensland University of Technology, University of Wollongong, University of Technology, Sydney and The University of Melbourne. It is accessible to all researchers, students and industry.

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.

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2021

Partnered with affiliates from all over Europe for specialised products.

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(02) 9771 4655 Melbourne

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

adeptconveyor.com.au

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MATERIALS HANDLING

BEUMER ENABLES FULLY AUTOMATIC LOADING OF BAGS ONTO TRUCKS

The process of loading palettes onto trucks can be time-consuming and labour intensive – not to mention exhausting.

starts the automatic loading process, bag by bag, directly from the filling machine via belt conveyors onto the truck.

Let the BEUMER autopac do the heavy lifting and stacking. It is a system which enables users to automatically load bagged bulk materials like cement on trucks and simultaneously palletise them quickly and with the desired packing pattern.

“With our BEUMER autopac, we have a system in our product range that can load trucks automatically,” explains Markus Peitzmeier, senior sales manager at BEUMER Group.

So how does it work? An empty truck slowly stops under the BEUMER autopac. Then, to load and palletise the cement bags, the employee enters the number of bags, the packing pattern and the desired number of rows and layers into the interface.

The use of an electronic bag counting system makes sure that the truck is neither underloaded nor overloaded. Manual corrections are completely omitted.

Laser positioning aids have been mounted to the left and right of the BEUMER autopac. They project the outer contours of the machine with a clearly visible red beam on the loading space, helping the operator to position the loading head on the truck. From its starting position, the system

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“And it does so extremely reliably.”

“The program control recalculates the height setting for each layer,” Mr Peitzmeier describes. Two belt conveyors positioned one above the other flatten the bags before the loading process and thus remove the air from them. After being positioned, the bags are also pressed by the loading head, which

makes the stack more compact and more stable. Meanwhile, the next layer is already being prepared. The bag feeding lines can be adapted to the customer's installation conditions. Corresponding technical solutions are available for variable conveyor lines. This enables owners to optimise processes, achieve high loading capacities and work very efficiently from bagging up to loading. Depending on the bag dimensions and their length and width ratio, the user has flexibility in layer formation. Patterns of ten, twelve and twenty bags per layer are possible. The very low positioning height of the loading head contributes to the gentle handling of the bags, as they are supported during the loading process and not lifted or possibly deformed, as is the case with vacuum suction modules. This interface is a touch panel with optimised user interface and graphic navigation. This operator panel provides

users with an easily understandable and intuitive interaction concept, enabling them to define efficient working sequences.

Beumer Group Australia 02 8823 4708 www.beumergroup.com

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2021

MATERIALS HANDLING

A HYGENIUS WAY OF HANDLING FOOD A new belt conveyor system aims to revolutionise the handling of food by minimising cross contamination and reducing downtime.

frame design also has fully guarded head and tail areas for operator safety. This is a requirement that is often overlooked in other wash down conveyors.

Australis Engineering introduces the Hygenius Food Grade Conveyors – the truly clean and hygienic conveyor. Perfect for raw meat, poultry, seafood, pet food, fruit and veggies and dairy.

Hygenius conveyors are specifically designed to minimise areas where food or product can accumulate which reduces the risk of bacterial contamination of your product. Importantly, this also allows for a faster cleaning process and with significantly less cracks and crevices, allows for a more thorough cleaning process. By reducing the potential for bacterial growth, you can improve food safety for your customers.

Designed with European Hygienic Engineering Design Group principles and certified components, Hygenius takes less than two minutes to disassemble and reassemble – all without tooling. EHEDG approved components such as hygienic polyurethane belts, washdown rated, hygienic motors, washdown rated bearings and hygienic feet are utilised. The design also eliminates exposed screw threads and incorporates our unique, Clean Belt Tensioning and Tracking System. With safety at the forefront, the Hygenius food grade conveyors open

Key features and options: • Washdown ready • Volta SuperDrive and MiniSuperDrive Belts • Clean belt tensioning and tracking • Quick, toolless belt release for easy belt removal

• Belt lifter for cleaning underneath the belt • Toolless removal of the belt running strips for fast and easy cleaning • Fully guarded head and tail pulleys for safety • Quick remove belt return rollers • Full 304 Stainless Steel construction or 316 Stainless Steel option • Anti-bacterial plastic running strips (optional) • Stainless steel motors, NSD TupH treated motors and Teflon coated motor options Established in 1983, Australis Engineering are a multi-faceted machinery manufacturer. They use their decades of experience to manufacture, conveyors, palletisers, pallet handling equipment, materials handling equipment and robotic solutions.

They have a strong engineering design focus and apply mechanical and industrial automation expertise across a range of industries results in smart thinking and innovation. In-house engineering and trade experts mean customers have direct access to the designers and technicians who are delivering solutions. Australis Engineering 02 9707 5888 https://australiseng.com.au/ product/conveyors/

PROTECT YOUR STAFF AND MACHINERY WITH WEARGUARD™ Machine guards are crucial to ensure employee safety and equipment longevity for machinery with moving parts or sharp edges.

Cut To Size Plastics supplies tough, custom-fabricated polycarbonate Wearguard™ machine guards throughout Australian industry.

WearguardTM machine guard benefits include: • High strength • Impact resistance • Ease-of-fabrication • Customisable to customer designs • Delivered ready to install • UV protected grade Make sure you’re protected. Contact us today to see if WearguardTM is right for your application.

1800 CUT2SIZE | sales@cuttosize.com.au | www.cuttosize.com.au FEBRUARY / MARCH 2021

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NEWS

SALES IS AN INSIDE ACTIVITY… IT HAS BEEN FOR YEARS! assumption that sales is an outside activity, you will seriously handicap the growth of your organisation. Sales used to be an outside activity Sales certainly used to be an outside activity. The image of Ray Kroc hawking Multi-Mixer machines from the trunk of his car in the 2016 move The Founder springs to mind.

Justin Roff-Marsh, Founder of Ballistix

Most executives think of sales as an outside activity. Justin Roff-Marsh claims that it isn’t and that it hasn’t been for at least 15 years. Furthermore, he argues that if you design your sales function based upon the

Things are different today, however. Few salespeople drop in on prospective customers unannounced. And most executives prefer to make purchasing decisions with as little face-to-face contact with salespeople as possible. Consequently, salespeople today spend most of their working hours inside. Either in a company office or in a home office. What’s more, if you examine the specific activities that genuinely need to be performed face-to-face in pursuit of a deal, those activities are increasingly

not performed by salespeople. Technical tasks (detailed requirement discovery and demonstrations) tend to be performed by engineers, and formal presentations in major-account sales environments tend to be performed by senior executives. It's time to face that selling has moved inside Roff-Marsh’s advice is to recognise that sales is an inside activity and to design your sales function in accordance with that. He counsels that salespeople should work inside exclusively and that all salespeople should be based in the organisation’s head office, making management easier. Critical field activities should be pushed to engineers or technical specialists, or to senior executives, as appropriate. He also maintains that salespeople should focus exclusively on the pursuit of new business. Leaving the management of inbound transactions to the customer service team.

BRINGING MANUFACTURING HOME: GOVERNMENT GRANTS EXPLAINED Both the public and the private sector have made their intentions known: it is time to take back Australia’s manufacturing. In the past, Australia fell prey to long supply chains and outsourcing majority of our goods and processes beyond our borders. The Federal Government has announced a raft of new initiatives and grants to help accomplish this goal. But there’s a lot of confusion surrounding the ‘why, what, when, who, where and how’ as it comes to accessing government grants. As part of Open IIoT’s webinar series for 2020, panel members hosted a discussion around a hot topic in the manufacturing sector. Industry experts break down the jargon and tackle realworld automation concerns, addressing the crucial topics of real business value, security, data ownership and IT integration. One such topic of the webinar was that of ‘Government Assistance for Manufacturers’ by Jim Wallace, Sales

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Manager for Balluff Australia New Zealand. Jim and guest speaker Shane Infanti, CEO from Australian Manufacturing Technology Institute Limited (AMTIL), shared invaluable insights and relevant information with webinar attendees. “It always amazes me that while there are a host of policies to promote local manufacturing, they still seem to be a well-kept secret,” explains Shane. “Many people aren’t familiar with the initiatives that are accessible to them.” The government’s recent budget speech highlighted a $1.3 billion modern manufacturing initiative. “Little detail is available at this stage, but government expects this to be in place from early next year. As part of this budget allocation, we are putting forward a technology diffusion program valued at $7 million for government’s consideration. “This is set to run over the next three to five years and will promote new technologies and methodologies”. Currently there are six government

initiatives on offer, aimed at boosting supply chain, industry growth, R&D, apprenticeships and the industry as a whole. There are specific criteria required to access these grants. Manufacturing Modernisation Fund (MMF) (round 2): $52.8 million will be allocated to this hugely popular initiative. Funding will be made available before the end of 2020 and it will support around 150 firms in the priority sectors. • Supply Chain Resilience Initiative (SCRI): $107.2 million goes towards identifying and supporting vulnerable supply chains for critical products. • Industry Growth Centres Initiative: $50 million is allocated to support projects in priority areas until the end of June 2022. • Entrepreneurs’ Program: Support to businesses through facilitators and advisors in industry sectors, R&D, intellectual property and raising capital to gain global competitiveness. • R&D Tax Incentive: Tax off-sets are made available for firms engaging in extensive R&D efforts.

Shane Infanti, CEO from Australian Manufacturing Technology Institute Limited (AMTIL)

• Apprenticeship Subsidy: This is available to companies of all sizes across all industries who engage in an apprenticeship program from 05 February / March 2021 up until the cap is reached. There is also an export market grant of $207 million worth of funding for companies looking to explore export markets. Shane recommended getting expert advice in connecting with the correct people in accessing the relevant grants.

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2021

ELECTRONICS

LEAD-FREE BRASS CABLE GLANDS PIONEERING SUSTAINABILITY COMPLIANCE TRENDS A new range of lead-free brass cable glands is being introduced by LAPP to help ensure manufacturers, machine builders and production automation engineers and operators achieve compliance with current and forthcoming global sustainability requirements.

the popular SKINTOP® MS-M and MS-SC-M models, as well as the counter nut SKIN-DICHT SM-M SKINTOP MS-M, which is the first choice for a wide range of applications in machine and plant construction, measurement, control and regulation technology.

The world market leader for integrated cable and connection solutions will be the first manufacturer in the world to offer cable glands in a lead-free brass version, staying ahead of increasing restrictions on lead use.

“It offers optimum strain relief, wide clamping ranges, numerous approvals and a high protection class,” says LAPP Australia General Manager Simon Pullinger.

LAPP has investigated various lead-free alloys. This included tests in production to ensure the reliability of the processes and the suitability of the tools. Both the LAPP laboratory and external testing institutions have confirmed that the properties of the new products are comparable with the current versions. This applies to the mechanical properties, corrosion resistance and EMC properties. The lead-free versions also comply with protection class IP 68. Initially, the most popular LAPP cable glands will be available in the new leadfree version, with first products including

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2021

LAPP says the SKINTOP MS-SC-M EMC cable gland, with highly conductive, flexible EMC contact spring, has a lowresistance screen contact for EMC-compliant earthing of the braided shield. All of these versions will be available immediately from stock in metric sizes M12 to M63. Further prod-uct groups are gradually being supplemented with lead-free versions. The previous versions will be still be available from global stock for the time being. Like the petrol industry, metallic materials such as brass must dispense with lead as an additive for easier processing – with one exception: Up to four percent is permitted in copper alloys – including brass, which is used

to produce cable glands. But this exception will expire on July 21, 2021, and it is still unclear whether there will be an extension or a transitional period. “If the exception ends as planned, brass will no longer be allowed to contain any lead, as stipulated by the European Directive RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances),” says Mr Pullinger. “LAPP does not want to wait around.” Although the new material is more complex to process, LAPP decided to include the material in its standard range.

“With the lead-free SKINTOP and SKINDICHT cable glands, LAPP is taking a pioneering role,” said Head of Product Management and Development, Guido Ege. “Anyone who is currently planning a machine with a long service life cannot rule out a possible ban on lead. “We are already giving our customers the certainty that they will be prepared for the challenges of the future.” LAPP Australia 1800 931 559 lappaustralia.com.au

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INNOVATION - FACTORY OF THE FUTURE

CREATING TOMORROW'S MANUFACTURING SOLUTIONS “The Fraunhofer Institute’s in Germany have always been an inspiration for me in terms of the role they play at the interface between industry and universities,” says Prof Spoehr. “We also established an MOU with the Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre in Sheffield in the UK and the Advanced Forming Research Centre in Glasgow with the idea that we could learn from their experience in developing these facilities.” The initial focus will be on collaborative research and training designed to maximise the engagement of South Australian companies and workers within the shipbuilding industry. Future stages will support a broad range of industries, enabling their trialling and adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies which will contribute to durable jobs growth across the SA economy. A world-first advanced manufacturing accelerator known as ‘Line Zero – Factory of the Future’ has begun construction at Tonsley Innovation District near Adelaide, as the government looks to the future to reinvigorate the manufacturing industry. The South Australian government has matched a $5 million commitment from Flinders University into the accelerator, which will test advanced manufacturing technologies for potential deployment in support of the naval shipbuilding and other industries. A temporary pilot ‘pop up’ factory developed in collaboration with BAE Systems Maritime Australia has been installed at Tonsley. This partnership is the foundation for the new facility, enabling BAE Systems Maritime Australia to build new capabilities and skills in support of the

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vision of establishing a world class Digital Shipyard at Osborne in South Australia. The $10m co-funding enables a permanent Factory of the Future to be built, which will create thousands of jobs and see Australia become one of the leading nations in manufacturing technology development. “For the first time in decades I think we have a consensus in Australia, across the political divide, about the necessity of a vibrant manufacturing sector,” says Flinders University Pro Vice-Chancellor – Research Impact, John Spoehr. “The goal is to take advantage of our ability to be competitive manufacturers globally through the adoption of advanced manufacturing technologies and to respond to the sovereign capability objectives that have come to the fore during Covid.

“So a facility like this can help test and trial PPE products, for example, much faster and at much lower risk than would otherwise be the case. “That will be one of the things that really accelerates the growth and regrowth of Australian manufacturing in the years to come.”

R&D activity in the factory will be beneficial for a range of sectors including med tech, energy and resources such as battery development and construction focusing on offsite modular construction. How technologies used in shipbuilding can be applied to the construction sector – both domestic and civil – is a big challenge for Australia.

Professor Spoehr tells Industry Update the Factory of the Future rises to the challenge of the government’s Modern Manufacturing Initiative goal of establishing manufacturing hubs, inspired by those in Europe and America.

Prof Spoehr, who is also the director of the Australian Industrial Transformation Institute, says the facility is the culmination of years of development and will allow SMEs access to research and develop innovations they currently don’t have.

With support from the South Australian government, a network of companies was brought together that were wanting to engage in sharing knowledge, experience and learning.

“Four years ago, we first established the Tonsley Manufacturing Innovation Hub as a low barrier to entry facility for companies to learn more about how they might introduce automation, robotics and digital

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2021

INNOVATION - FACTORY OF THE FUTURE technologies into manufacturing processes and build the skills to support that,” he says. “The strategy being having this colocated will reduce the barriers to entry for a lot of SMEs, who are aware of the technology and are keen to experiment more with it. “They are much more likely to do so in an environment like this where they don’t actually have to purchase new equipment in the first instance.”

Building for the future Tonsley Innovation District is at the forefront of shaping the future of manufacturing in Australia. It aims to revolutionise and rethink the way cities and manufacturing intersect. After the closure of the car factories in South Australia, there was a manufacturing crisis, explains Tonsley Precinct Director Philipp Dautel. “There was a moment of realisation that manufacturing of the future couldn’t simply be transactional—as it had been—but collaborative, inventive and high-value,” he tells Industry Update. “In response to this, Tonsley has deliberately created a mixed-use environment where industry is co-located with academia, training expertise and even a residential development. “We need to move away from the way cities have been constructed in the past, where you once had the manufacturing district on one side of town, the CBD on the other and the homes somewhere else again. “Creating a shared space where we work, live and play is how and where things come together, ultimately with the aim to drive that collaborative spirit which in turn leads to partnerships that wouldn’t have happened organically.

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2021

“These partnerships inspire new product development and will ultimately underpin the future of manufacturing.” Tonsley is halfway through a 20-year plan to increase private investment in the district to $1 billion from its current standing of $300 million. At present, there are more than 35 businesses invested with approximately 290 in co-working spaces. More than 1,700 people work at Tonsley and more than 8,000 students study on site each year. In the coming years, there is expected to be around 1,600 people living at Tonsley. Along with BAE Systems Maritime Australia, other businesses invested in Tonsley include SAGE Automation, Siemens Energy, Micro-X, ZEISS, Rockwell Automations, Sinclair Product Design and Tesla, who are developing their Big Battery technology.

What is the Advanced Manufacturing Accelerator? The Line Zero – Factory of the Future will be home to a one-of-a-kind Advanced

Manufacturing Accelerator, an incredible unification of robotics and automation. “Industrial robots are well established historically in a lot of manufacturing, most notably in the automotive industry,” explains Prof Spoehr. “We are focusing on the uptake of collaborative robots – the next generation of robots that are uncaged and that humans can work alongside with. “How you integrate the current and emerging generation of collaborative robotic systems with vision capabilities into your workplace is the focus of work that we do. Does this mean the Factory of the Future will be at the forefront of artificial intelligence development in the manufacturing industry? “Yes,” Prof Spoehr answers definitively. “And allied to this is all the machinery is intelligent machinery. It will be highly sensorised, meaning not only giving it the capability to improve processes through repetition, but also to enable predictive

maintenance and improve energy efficiency of the machinery through automatic recalibration. “These systems along with additive manufacturing will be a core feature. But so too will be visualisation and simulation capabilities including virtual reality systems.”

Tonsley is continually expanding through modular construction and aims to solve future employment crises through more manufacturing. “For me, Tonsley is the lobbying and advocacy machine for manufacturing, which operates through action and application,” says Mr Dautel, who believes that building up the Australian made brand identity internationally is paramount to future success. “What better way to promote your country than to hold up a tangible, reputable product that grows your nation’s brand capital, secures ongoing trade and investment and establishes our relevance in the evolution of manufacturing. It’s the best business card you can have.”

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AUSTRALIAN MADE luuons o S e g ra to S l ia tr s BAC Modern Indu ial Storage Soluuons str BAC Modern Indu

AUSTRALIAN MADE LOGO NOW REGISTERED IN EU, UK

vaaon! o n in e d a m n a li a Support Austr vaaon! o n in e d a m n a li a Support Austr The Australian Made Campaign has announced the green-and-gold kangaroo Australian Made, Australian Grown (AMAG) logo is now a registered trademark in the European Union, United Kingdom and the United Arab Emirates. The registration of the symbol means the iconic logo is now legally protected under local EU, UK and UAE law, with only certified Australian makers and growers are allowed to use it.

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The iconic green-and-gold kangaroo logo has been clearly identifying Australian goods in export markets for more than 34 years. Almost half of all Australian Made licensees use the logo on exported products. Australian Made Campaign CEO Ben Lazzaro said the logo is a valuable marketing tool and is central to export strategies of Australian businesses taking their goods abroad. “The EU, UK and UAE present a huge opportunity for Aussie makers and growers. The formal registration of the logo in these regions provides an essential legal framework which exporters can rely upon if the logo is copied or used without proper authority,” he said. According to the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Australia exported $20,535 million worth of merchandise to the EU during the 2018-19 financial year, $7,897 million to the UK and A$4,176 million to the UAE.

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Austrade’s Senior Trade and Investment Commissioner UK, Ireland and the Nordics, Jennifer Mackinlay, said the registration was timely as Australia negotiates Free Trade Agreements with the UK and the European Union. “The Australian Made logo is

a powerful and stand out sales and marketing asset for authentic Australian brands and supports Australian businesses to differentiate their products and grow their exports,” she said. Recognition of the Australian Made logo is already high in these regions, with recent Horizon Consumer Science research finding 85 per cent of consumers in the UK and UAE believe products carrying the logo are genuinely Australian and 83 per cent in France. The biggest motivations to buy Australian products were found to be quality, reputation and ethical standards. The logo registration work was carried out by Australian Made Campaign Partner and Australia’s largest independent intellectual property specialist firm, Wrays. It covers 10 classes (Classes 3, 5, 20, 25, 29-33 and 35) that extend to a wide range of products including: 3 – cleaning products, soaps, toiletries, cosmetics 5 – pharmaceuticals, veterinary pharmaceuticals, infant formula 20 – furniture 25 – clothing and footwear 29-33 – food and beverages 35 – retail services The formal registration of the AMAG logo in the EU, UK and UAE follows its registration in other key export markets including the USA, China, South Korea, India, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong and Taiwan. Australian Made www.australianmade.com.au

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2021

AUSTRALIAN MADE

UNDERSEA CABLE TO EXPORT POWER FROM $22BN NT SOLAR FARM

Excerpts from Renew Economy, Michael Mazengarb and Giles Parkinson What was thought to be a ‘crazy’ project not too long ago is no more. And now it’s creating a big buzz, as Territorians will surely benefit the most from it. A key planning agreement to export Australian solar power to Singapore has been signed off by the Northern Territory government. The agreement is for a $22 billion Sun Cable project to send electricity from a massive 10GW solar farm via a 3,700km undersea transmission cable. The unprecedented project for Australia and the world – in scale and its export of electricity targets – has been granted “major project status”, with the longest transmission cable dubbed as the Australia-ASEAN Power Link. The 10GW solar project is under construction near Elliott in the Barkly Region, where electricity power will be sent offshore using a series of huge battery installations. The NT chief minister Michael Gunner

says the project will create security in energy supply and jobs for the Territory. There is an expectation that under the signed agreement Sun Cable will present a ‘Territory Benefits Plan’ outlining economic opportunities and an Aboriginal workforce and local engagement strategy. “This project will put the NT on the international map when it comes to renewables. It will also see hundreds of Territorians find work in the Barkly and Darwin regions during the construction and operational phases,” Mr Gunner said. “This project will transform the Territory into a renewable energy powerhouse and cement our position as Australia’s comeback capital.” The project is expected to include linkages to the Darwin-Katherine grid and the Middle Arm Battery, to be between 50MW and 500MW, that will provide system reliability services to the local grid. Sun Cable CEO David Griffin said the project would see Australia become

an exporter of low cost and zero emissions power into the Asian region. The project could serve up to one-fifth of Singapore’s total electricity consumption. “This will provide affordable, reliable energy to support industrial growth in Darwin, as well as supplying up to 20 per cent of Singapore’s electricity needs,” Mr Griffin said. “The Australia-ASEAN Power Link project will help the Northern Territory make deep cuts to its emissions intensity by decoupling economic growth from carbon pollution.” Northern Territory minister for renewables and energy, Eva Lawler, said the project would deliver substantial benefits to the local economy, both through the investment in the project itself, as well as through lower cost supplies of power. “This agreement shows strong confidence for investing in the Northern Territory and investing in renewable energy, which is not only good for the environment but good for the economy,” Ms Lawler said.

“Locals can look forward to affordable energy that’s reliable and renewable by the end of the decade. Our Government is doing whatever it takes to keep Territorians in jobs and ensure the economy is continuing to tick over.” The project is also expected to generate up to $1 billion in annual exports throughout the project’s 70-year life. Sun Cable expects to reach financial close on the Australia-ASEAN Power Link in late 2023, with first electricity generated in Australia by 2026. The first exports of electricity to Singapore are expected by 2027. When Australian tech billionaire Mike Cannon-Brookes – the power behind the project – addressed the National Smart Energy Summit in Sydney previously, he said that each of the components of the Sun Cable project would “likely be the largest of their kind when completed”. Resources billionaire Andrew ‘Twiggy’ Forrest is also an investor for the NT Sun Cable Project.

Think sourcing offshore manufacturing is cheaper? You could be paying in more ways than one.

BRING IT HOME

The economic, logistics and health impacts of COVID-19 continue to ripple through Australian and global economies, with many Australian based businesses now weighing up bigger picture costs associated with offshore supply. Think you’re still saving by importing goods from an international supplier? You might not be saving as much as you think. Bring home your manufacturing to: AVOID RESTRICTIVE UPFRONT PAYMENTS

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AUSTRALIAN MADE

AGBOSS HELPS FARMERS CHOOSE AUSTRALIAN MADE Helping to keep Aussie farmers strong is of vital importance for the Australian Made Campaign.

“It doesn’t seem to matter how fancy the artwork you come up with, you can’t match having that on your product.

Innovative products have been developed since to meet the industry's complex needs that keep changing every year.

It’s essential the agriculture industry is supplied with the best equipment and resources – designed and built for Australian conditions – and marketed with their instantly recognisable Australian Made, Australian Grown logo.

“Especially with the business and brands that were acquired last year, we are looking at just how we can utilise all capabilities to bring product manufacturing home, whilst keeping a competitive advantage. We see this coming through our focus on quality,” explains Scott.

They now manufacture predominantly using the processes of injection-molding and blow-molding to create a range of products that are sold into the Agricultural, Abattoir, Commercial Kitchen and Government Infrastructure Industries.

That’s where AgBoss comes in. Since 1991, the Albury-Wodonga business has been dedicated to meeting the increasing demands of farming customers, all with a focus on supplying Australian made products. They have made a point of placing the iconic green and gold Kangaroo triangle front and centre on all products that are 100 per cent Australian Made. “We’ve been with them for three or  four years and we know it’s the best, most trusted logo to put on your product,” AgBoss Managing Director Scott Jensen tells Industry Update.

The famous Australian Made, Australian Grown logo is the true mark of Aussie authenticity. It’s Australia’s most trusted, recognised and widely used country of origin symbol. All products that carry the logo are certified as ‘genuinely Australian’.

Moving ahead to the future Scott took over running the family business three years ago and has seen the company grow over 300% in that time. Initially, the company started with a humble product line: plastic measuring jugs.

Scott Jensen - AgBoss CEO

He says the company will scale its molding and fabrication capabilities.

and implemented a plan to realise this initiative for 2021.

“We’ve got a lot of feelers out in the marketplace at the moment to see what some of our existing customers want us to build in terms of product range.”

“One of the strategies that came out of that Covid plan was for us to start onshoring our supply chain,” says Scott.

“As of mid-last year, we purchased another business with steel fabrication and rotational molding capabilities,” he says. “And it’s been a fast and furious start to the year.” As the country moves towards a postCovid landscape, AgBoss is looking to strengthen its ties with the local community

While Covid has its own issues to contend with – border restrictions and broken supply chains– the farming industry also had to grapple with the devastation caused by the bushfires in late 2019 to early 2020. With AgBoss focusing their strategies on Australian Made products, the farmers will be well placed to deal with the challenges and opportunities presented in 2021.

FLEXSHIELD’S INNOVATIVE SOUND-PROOF DOOR SOLUTION Market-leading industrial door manufacturer Flexshield has partnered with RAAF Williamtown as part of their Air 6000 – New Air Combat Capability Facilities Project. Home to the tactical fighter element of the Air Combat Group, and given the critical nature of the base’s operations, controlling and minimising noise is a significant consideration. Noise control helps to prevent potentially dangerous errors in communication and judgment, and provides a safer, more comfortable work environment. This important national Defence project saw upgrades to RAAF base facilities to prepare for the introduction of the Joint Strike Fighter in 2019. As part of the upgrade, RAAF Williamtown needed 70 acoustic doors to soundproof training rooms, F-35 simulator rooms, maintenance

workshops, meeting rooms and accommodation quarters. Flexshield designed, manufactured and supplied high-performance Sonic Access Rw45 acoustic doors, pre-hung in frames with hardware fitted. The Sonic Access acoustic doors were manufactured and NATA tested to achieve high acoustic performance ratings of up to Rw46 and Rw52 for various models. To assist with complete end-to-end support, Flexshield representatives attended site throughout the project to confirm sizes and scope, provide installation guidance and for Quality Assurance tracking. Site visits help Flexshield’s acoustic designers

to understand the processes of the defence application, allowing them to create the perfect acoustic door for the application. The oversize door leaves were constructed and supplied in complete sections along with modular door frames ready to install. In contrast, the Personal Access doors were “SonicFix” prehung in the frames with all hardware factory fitted.

With the fabrication and fitting process taking only six weeks from the shop drawing approval to dispatch, Flexshield was able to ensure on-time delivery and prevent any project delays. Delivery to the site was on flatbed semitrailers, enabling cranes to lift directly from the truck to the install location.

“SonicFix” ready-to-fix soundproof doors are the only 100 per cent ready-to-install door set manufactured in Australia. The complete door sets also provided unrivalled strength, insulation qualities and aesthetic appearance.

Throughout the project, Flexshield worked with both the ADF Estate Contractors and theirsubcontractors to ensure a smooth, troublefree project delivery process.

This unique capability means any local builder can complete the installation, saving time and lowering cost while still providing a certified acoustic result.

Flexshield 1300 799 969 flexshield.com.au

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SMC ENERGY CONSERVATION GROUP DEVELOPS GLOBAL FIRST In an exciting world first, an innovative portable Compressed Air Leakage Analyser, which does not require ‘host’ machine reprogramming, has been designed and built in Australia. SMC Corporation Australia New Zealand’s Energy Conservation Group has commissioned the Compressed Air Leakage Analyser, which has now been exported to a global food manufacturer in Dubai. According to SMC, the plug-and-play solution can be easily installed and is used to manage and monitor the host machine whilst calculating air consumption for the predetermined pneumatic application. With direction from the groups’ ANZ Energy Conservation Manager Bill Blyth and members of the Sydney based team including Project Engineer Alex Bonella and Mechanical Engineer Tim Ho, developed the system to help customers to realise real energy (cost) savings. “Finding and assessing individual leakage in a compressed air system can be costly and time consuming,” says Bill.

“This state-of-the-art analyser makes use of a SMC monitoring technology to identify the location and volume for individual leaks – both static and dynamic. “A bonus is the ability to also carry out consumption and usage profile analysis for the machine during operation – without the need to reprogram the host machine or process,” which he says is the real time and labour-saving aspect. SMC has long focused on reducing the energy costs associated with compressed air applications and with the Global formation of the SMC Energy Conservation Group in 2015, has a team of experts dedicated to developing and integrating technologies to reduce energy usage (and costs) for its customers. “This truly is a gamechanger for manufacturers. It allows the machine owners to make informed decisions about easily identifying and prioritizing when there is need to repair a leak and what the real value is to your business,” Bill adds. The analyser will develop and provide a file detailing all measured leaks and other relevant compressed air data and costs –

SMC Energy Conservation Group - Tim Ho, Mechnical Engineer (left) and Alex Bonella, Project Engineer on right.

allowing detailed machine maintenance analysis.

in 83 countries and employs 19,000 people across the globe.

The Compressed Air Leakage Analyser is now available for both local and global applications and can be tailored to suit the many valve control protocols including serial and parallel connected platforms.

SMC offers more than 12,000 basic products with over 700,000 variations and is the world’s leading pneumatics provider.

Founded 60 years ago, SMC operates

SMC Pneumatics 1800 763 862 AUSales@smcanz.com

DURST GIVE YOUR MACHINERY A HYPASTART The Durst Hypastart is a jump starter that will work from five volts, but it doesn’t have a battery. So how does that work? Fully Australian made, the Hypastart uses a technology called Super Capacitors, or Super Caps, so gone are lead acid batteries and gone with lithium batteries as well. And even if a battery is dead flat, you don’t have to wait hours and hours to charge it. In 15 minutes, you’re ready to go and it’s ready to run.

There’s nothing more annoying than a flat battery – whether it’s your car or your heavy-duty mining equipment.

The charge process will take a few minutes, depending on the charge level. The working range for charge is about five minutes, but if it’s dead flat and been sitting there for three months or longer, it can take 15 to 20 minutes to charge.

If you’ve got a vehicle that’s out of juice, typically the engine won’t start without a charge of over 10 volts or so on a 12V system or 20V in a 24V system.

When it’s ready to go, the indicator will be at 100 per cent, then you can switch it on. As soon as the engine starts going, the current will come back into the unit, instantly powering up to about 80 percent.

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Then you can switch it off and then you’re already at a starting voltage ready to go again. If you need to top it up, you can while the car is running, and bring it right up to 100 percent charge level but keep in mind that the Hypastart will start just about any engine even if the charge level indicator is at measly 1 percent charge. The operation of the Hypastart is simple and feels like any other traditional jump starter with the exception of one additional “energize” switch position that is used for charging. The Hypastart is available in four sizes, with 12/24V combo units and the largest jump starter has capabilities of well over 8000 amps. This jump starter is perfect for environments that need extremely safe and high-powered equipment such as underground mining. The Hypastart is quick and easy to

operate, but most importantly, it’s very safe to use. Typical lead acid battery or even lithium, there’s always a chance of gas, explosion or fire. Charging batteries produces gassing – that’s just the nature of the beast. Generally, premium lithium-ion battery jump starter has a lifespan of 2 to 4 years. However, Hypastart Jump Starter has a longer lifespan up to 20 years.

The built-in super capacitors can withstand more than 1,000,000 times frequently repeated use in its lifetime and is suitable for 4, 6 & 8 cylinder petrol/diesel passenger vehicles and heavy industrial up to 32.1L engines. The Hypastart can even start specialised voltages of planes, helicopters, locomotives and tanks! Durst Industries 02 9660 1755 www.durst.com.au

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2021

AUSTRALIAN MADE

BRINGING BACK THE AUSSIE MADE WORKBENCH Look up the definition of tough and you will find words such as strong, sturdy and reliable.

Essentially you are designing your own workbench from scratch. Combine this customisation with

When you purchase a workbench from Workbench Warehouse, you get just that. They know the workbench is the unsung hero of the workplace.

approachable customer service and ordering a workbench has never been so satisfying and so easy.

Built to order, they’re workbenches that function as a showpiece item or a workhorse. You are limited only by your imagination. Workbench Warehouse is not your typical supplier. Their products are fully customisable, with options to suit your space, budget and all conditions. Not only can you choose the size, but you can also decide on the number of cabinets, drawers, shelves and many accessories. They will also colour match your branding.

So whether it’s a new factory fit-out, a large-scale manufacturing project or something for home, Workbench Warehouse have the experience, knowledge and capacity to deliver your vision – big or small.

Workbench Warehouse (03) 9580 5029 www.workbenchwarehouse.com.au

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

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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

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2021

Test Benches

02 9660 1755 Shop online at durst.com.au

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PRODUCTS

HOW LOBSTERS CAN HELP MAKE STRONGER 3D PRINTED CONCRETE New research shows that patterns inspired by lobster shells can make 3D printed concrete stronger, to support more complex and creative architectural structures. In a new experimental study, researchers at RMIT University looked to the natural strength of lobster shells to design special 3D printing patterns. Researchers found that bio-mimicking spiral patterns improved the overall durability of the 3D printed concrete, as well as enabling the strength to be precisely directed for structural support where needed. When the team combined the twisting patterns with a specialised concrete mix enhanced with steel fibres, the resulting material was stronger than traditionallymade concrete. “3D concrete printing technology has real potential to revolutionise the construction industry, and our aim is to bring that transformation closer,” said Lead

researcher Dr Jonathan Tran. “Our study explores how different printing patterns affect the structural integrity of 3D printed concrete, and for the first time reveals the benefits of a bioinspired approach in 3DCP. “We know that natural materials like lobster exoskeletons have evolved into high-performance structures over millions of years, so by mimicking their key advantages we can follow where nature has already innovated.” The automation of concrete construction is set to transform how we build, with construction the next frontier in the automation and data-driven revolution. The research team in RMIT’s School of Engineering focuses on 3D printing concrete, exploring ways to enhance the finished product through different combinations of printing pattern design, material choices, modelling, design optimisation and reinforcement options.

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The most conventional pattern used in 3D printing is unidirectional, where layers are laid down on top of each other in parallel lines. The results showed strength improvement from each of the patterns, compared with unidirectional printing, but Tran said the spiral patterns hold the most promise for supporting complex 3D printed concrete structures. “As lobster shells are naturally strong and naturally curved, we know this could help us deliver stronger concrete shapes like arches and flowing or twisted structures,” he said. “This work is in early stages so we need further research to test how the concrete performs on a wider range of parameters, but our initial experimental results show we are on the right track.” Further studies will be supported through a new large-scale mobile concrete 3D printer recently acquired by RMIT – making it the first research institution in

The team will also use the machine to explore the potential for 3D printing with concrete made with recycled waste materials such as soft plastic aggregate. The work is connected to a new project with industry partners Replas and SR Engineering, focusing on sound-dampening walls made from post-consumer recycled soft plastics and concrete, recently supported with an Australian Government Innovations Connections grant.

Komatsu MR series “Moving Mast” reach truck, includes seven models in capacities from 1,400 kg to 2,500 kg and lift heights up to 12,500 mm. Theare are three mono bloc chassis sizes available with battery compartment easily accessible via standard battery removal system Ergonomic operator driver position, with each controls accessible and quite precise and efficient. Also for drive and steering wheel, a reliable three phase AC current traction drive motor reliable under all load conditions Steering wheel which can be longitudinally adjusted for an excellent driving comfort. Hydraulic functions include powerful and noiseless lift motor controlled by proportional solenoids which regulate the pump rpm, always providing the right quantity of oil.

The masts are constructed from wrap around external section to ensure torsional and bending rigidity, lifting heights available to 12,00 mm, and more.

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The 5x5m robotic printer will be used by the team to research the 3D printing of houses, buildings and large structural components.

MR SERIES REACH TRUCK FOR BIG TON CAPACITY

All the hydraulic functions are controlled by finger tips.

the southern hemisphere to commission a machine of this kind.

The Electronic system and brakes include ECO-eLo energy efficiency mode reduces motor speed and optimises battery consumption and can, dependent on the application, reduce energy consumption by up to 20% without having a significant impact on overall productivity. Dual CANbus technology ensures reliability & simplified maintenance. Komatsu komatsuforklift.com.au

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2021

PRODUCTS

INDUSTRY’S SMALLEST SOLAR HARVESTING SOLUTION FOR SPACE-CONSTRAINED IOT APPLICATIONS Maxim Integrated Products, Inc. (NASDAQ: MXIM) has released industry’s smallest solar harvesting solution. It is ideal for space-constrained applications such as wearable’s and emerging Internet of things (IoT) applications. Designers of space-constrained designs can now significantly increase runtime with the MAX20361 single-/ multi-cell solar harvester with maximum power point tracking (MPPT). Designers are often challenged with the tradeoff between small size and long runtime for wearable and IoT applications. By enabling solar charging in these highly space-constrained products, the MAX20361 can extend the runtime of those devices by providing a supplemental power source. This solar harvester reduces solution

size by at least half. The MAX20361 increases harvested energy with up to 5 percent better boost efficiency and, coupled with an adaptive MPPT approach. Key Advantages: smallest size, industry’s smallest solar harvesting solution due to reduced component size and smaller, fewer external components, 50 percent smaller solution size. Also the MAX20361 single-/multicell solar harvester leads to higher efficiency with its maximized harvested energy with up to 5 percent better boost and additional harvesting gains can be achieved through adaptive MPPT features. There is also unique integrated harvesting gauge for real-time indications of efficiency to optimize performance. Maxim Integrated is an engineer’s engineering company, which exists to

solve the designer’s toughest problems in order to empower design innovation.

robust protection along with intelligent processing.

Portfolio includes high-performance semiconductors, world-class tools and support, essential analog solutions including efficient power, precision measurement, reliable connectivity and

Maxim Integrated www.maximintegrated.com/ en.html

COOL OFF WITH SEIFERT Not all air conditioning units are built equally. Seifert Peltier units offer an alternative cooling option where conventional compressor/condenser systems are inappropriate. Thermoelectric elements create a temperature differential between ambient and internal heat sinks. This encourages an internal cool air circuit while fans help transfer convective heat to the atmosphere. Seifert Peltier cooling units’ capacities range from 30W up to 800W and are available in Stainless Steel 304 or 316. They are an ideal cooling solution for harsh environments especially where maintenance is limited. They are resistant to extreme ambient conditions and operate well in dusty, oily environments where temperatures can vary from -20 degrees Celsius to +65C. These units are available in 12V, 24V and 48VDC and 120-240V AC.

telecommunications, defence, medical, traffic management, food, pharmaceutical and mining industries. Their design and manufacturing philosophy is underpinned by the international ISO9001 quality and ISO14001 environmental standards. Multiple Peltier units can be installed in side mount orientation, however top mounting is to be avoided as this can promote condensation. These units are offered in either a recess format or with an external duct-fitted. The recess version means part of the Peltier will penetrate into the enclosure to be cooled, so use this option when there’s minimal equipment to be cooled.

The external fans on these units are rated to IP68. However, the units as a whole are rated to IP66 and are suitable for indoor and outdoor applications.

Equally, use the duct to keep the Peltier external to the enclosure, assuming the enclosure is crowded with equipment.

Seifert Systems air condition, ventilate, dehumidify and heat control cabinets and enclosures for businesses in the

Seifert Systems 61 3 9801 1906 seifertsystems.com.auau

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2021

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INNOVATION - RS COMPONENTS

DRIVING CHANGE AND RESILIENCE IN THE SUPPLY CHAIN

By Scott Philbrook, ANZ Managing Director, RS Components The Institute of Supply Management reported that at the start of the pandemic, 75 per cent of companies suffered supply chain disruptions due to transport restrictions. Almost half the companies surveyed had no contingency plan for supply chain disruption leading back to China. Eleven months on, many companies are suffering from the consequences of the disruption. We have all seen extended lead times, rationing and restrictions due to logistics issues causing upstream supply chain disruption, production lockdowns and manpower difficulties leading to reduced output. The pandemic has shown that global supply chains can be fragile, demonstrating the need for resilience. Consequently, the priorities of many organisations are changing fast. The challenge now is to balance building resiliency into the supply chain, without compromising efficiency or adding excessive cost, and boards throughout Australia are seeking to future proof their supply chains. The benefits of supply chain resilience may not be so easily measured as revenue

or market share growth, productivity gain or profitability. But the cost of doing nothing is likely to be considerably higher. Key elements of a resilience strategy include risk assessment of all aspects of the operation; mitigating the most obvious weak points; contingency planning; communication and collaboration with suppliers and customers; and a digital infrastructure to support all aspects of the business. Companies should undertake a mapping process to identify suppliers that may be susceptible to high risk events. Building strong two-way partnerships with customers and suppliers, based on trust and understanding, can help all parties in times of crisis to react quickly and effectively. Timely detection of events that might lead to disruption is important too, so that contingency plans can be activated swiftly. Companies may also have to change their design criteria and design for resilience. The use of design platforms and harmonising or standardisation of components across product lines are techniques companies are already using to keep costs down and reduce time to market, but these can work for

building in resiliency too. Inventory and capacity buffers are also going to provide some business continuity in the face of major disruption, but this can be expensive. Many have been in the process of increasing digitalisation, and now is not the time to stop that process. Support for an increased number of remote-working employees, which is unlikely to fall back to pre-pandemic levels, requires robust and efficient digital networking systems and communications tools. Digitalisation can help to improve efficiencies within the supply chain in a number of ways, with digital twin systems just one example of this. Digital twin systems are able to find alternative routes, production methods, and suppliers for a supply chain, with the highly accurate plans able to be implemented almost immediately. RS Components have been working closely for some time with our suppliers and our logistics people on building strategic partnerships. From the outset of the pandemic, we extended negotiations, not only to help ensure their business continuity

but also in order to maintain shipments to us. We have always aimed to keep good levels of inventory of top-selling items in all appropriate locations. This time we were able to predict, to some extent, products that might become in short supply, knowing which supplier factories were shut down or anticipating transportation problems. Certainly, we encountered some difficulties, but we suffered far less disruption than many. Supply chain continuity and resilience has become a critical issue as industries have had to adapt. Risk assessment, understanding the abilities and limitations of suppliers, and increased digitalisation has become paramount towards being able to survive future high-risk disruptive events. RS Components 1300 656 636 https://au.rs-online.com/

ENVIRONMENTAL SPILL KIT MUST BE READY AT ALL TIMES A fire extinguisher must be ready at all times – that’s why we get them checked/serviced by a professional.

entire site assisting you to monitor the usage and implement strategies to minimise excessive absorbent use over time.

Similarly, an environmental spill kit must be ready at all times. When was the last time you had yours checked/serviced by a professional?

As part of the Spill Kit Service Program, kits are re-stocked without delay, you pay no freight costs on the re-stock items, the serviceability and appearance of the kits is maintained at optimum levels and sound advice from trained and qualified staff on any issues with Environmental Compliance and Spill response Products.

Supporting Australian companies for 25 years, Absorb Environmental Solutions pride themselves being technically rigorous and responsive to clients’ needs by providing world class environmental solutions. They understand your time is valuable, so they can take care of servicing your environmental spill response kits and allow you to demonstrate that you are meeting your environmental due diligence. Absorb’s Spill Kit Service Program was designed to provide comprehensive supply, auditing and management of spill kits across your entire site, ensure your duty of care is maintained and to promote compliance with Environmental Legislation. Regular quarterly servicing of your spill kits will reduce your environmental risk from any liquid spill incident by keeping your resources maintained. Also included is an electronic report of the usage for each kit and spill inventory across your

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Not only do Absorb run a quality service program, but they also supply the environmental spill kits themselves. There are three typical wheelie bin kits. They are for oil and fuel for hydrocarbon spills on land, Hazchem for hazardous or dangerous liquids, and general purpose kits for non-hazardous liquids such as paint. Other specialised kits are available for marine applications as well as vehicles and body fluid incidents. Each kit includes absorbent pads to mop spills on flat surfaces, loose granular absorbent to soak up spills on rough surfaces, containment booms to prevent liquid spills from spreading or entering stormwater drains, and disposal bags to allow clean-up of spent absorbent.

Absorb provides a wide range of training programs for each type of kit to safely and effectively eliminate spills. They also run programs to train senior management and a Diploma of Environmental Management course via virtual delivery. The most popular spill response course, Absorb Plus, consists of one hour of theory followed by one hour of practical spill simulation exercises. Absorb Environmental Solutions has offices and depots in Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Townsville and Perth. They provide products, services and training to all Australian states and territories. The Spill Kit Service Program includes: • Programmed Spill Kit inspection on site. • Maintenance and on the spot re-stock of kits which have been used

Compliance and Spill response Products. • Comprehensive supply, auditing and management of spill kits across your entire site The number and type of spill kits required per business is entirely dependent on each individual site. Absorb can provide advice on ideal spill kit location. Environmental legislation requires businesses to fulfil their duty not to harm the environment. This means they must take all reasonable practicable measures to prevent environmental harm occurring.

• All Spill Kits are fitted with a maintenance tag which is stamped to record the date of each visit.

This will include having appropriate measures to prevent accidental liquid spills contaminating the environment via the storm water system. Spill kits are considered to be an essential tool to achieve this.

• Sound advice from trained and qualified staff on any issues with Environmental

Absorb Environmental Solutions www.absorbenviron.com.au

• Reporting on individual Kit usage.

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2021

of shredding applications.

Over 46 million acres of land was burnt across all Australian states and territories. Australia experienced devastating loss with thousands of homes destroyed and an entire species of animals and plants affected. USA pump manufacturer GormanRupp knew they had a product that could really make a difference and did not waste any time coming up with a way to help out. Team members at Gorman-Rupp decided to donate engine driven water transfer pumps to help with firefighting. Gorman-Rupp and Hydro Innovations worked together to distribute the pumps to fire stations across Australia. Hydro Innovations Regional Manager, Graeme Spence and Regional Sales Manager for Oceania and South East Asia, Kevin Jamie met with the Corryong CFA group to issue one of the donated engine driven water transfer pumps. The Corryong CFA Group was heavily affected by the fires which put a great strain on their department. The engine driven water transfer pump issued to them will enable fire crews to fill their tankers in up to half the time.

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2021

LAR ECONO

FOR MON E

LAR ECONO

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In the summer months of 2019/2020, Australia experienced one of the worst bushfire seasons on record.

AVY DUTY

Y M

FOR MON E

AVY DUTY

GORMAN-RUPP DONATES ENGINE DRIVEN WATER TRANSFER PUMPS TO FIRE CREWS IN NEED

vertical shredders. vertical Built tough for the shredders. most demanding tough for the of Built shredding most demanding applications. CI

PRODUCTS

Hydro Innovations and Gorman-Rupp are proud to be helping where it’s needed the most. And how can the engine driven water transfer pumps speed up your process? The Gorman-Rupp engine driven pump is designed for applications which require high flow efficiency, even if heads are higher, and solids handling capability. Unlike the pressed aluminium housings with internal volutes, these Gorman-Rupp pumps are constructed of heavy duty sand cast aluminium components. Advantages include suction lifts to 7.6 metres with petrol engine or diesel drive. There are 2”, 3” and 4” sizes available. It handles large solids of up to 50mm for the 4”pump. The pump flows to 38 litres per second and heads to 30 metres; also a removable cover-plate to access pump internals for inspection and or blockage removal. Hydro Innovations 02 9898 1800 www.hydroinnovations.com.au

• Aggressive size reduction and densification of preshredded materials • Aggressive size reduction and densification of pre• Clean,shredded high bulkmaterials density output for easy sorting and transportation • Clean, high bulk density output for easy sorting and transportation

• C&D waste, scrap metal and other heavy duty • C&D waste, scrap metal and other heavy duty applications applications

• Available with up to 440kW of power

• Industry-proven and built tough for Australian conditions

03 8066 9706 8066 sales@appliedmachinery.com.au Phone: Phone: 03 9706 Email:Email: sales@appliedmachinery.com.au

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PRODUCTS

COMPRESSED AIR INDUSTRY FACES UP TO THE CHALLENGES FOR 2021 Service heads and technicians must be continually trained and in tune with evolving technologies and the increasing demands of compressed air users. They need to provide support in all facets of user needs and informed advice to operators. Finding the right people to perform these roles is a big challenge for all Australian based compressed air suppliers. So companies must attract the best personnel possible and instigate constant structured training programmes for staff at all levels.

The restrictions that COVID-19 placed on us from 2020, is a wake up call on export and import reliance for many industries. We can continue as we were and hope for a slow progress to recovery or learn some important lessons in adaptability to the current and future business environment with renewed vitality and optimism. New opportunities will continue to emerge for local Australian design and manufacture. This is in particular with scientific process, new age technologies, mining, food production and engineering, as a result of restrictions on imported goods, parts and supply chains.

compressed air technologies to lower or at least maintain their energy costs. It can clearly be demonstrated that the capital costs of upgrading will be recovered through big energy savings over a few years of operation. While the very latest innovations and technology in air compressor design and engineering are dramatically reducing the energy required to run them, it is also incumbent on the user to maintain their compressed air systems in peak efficiency condition. Regular expert servicing of compressors and ancillary equipment dramatically reduces the occurrence of leakage and inefficient operation.

So that the Compressed Air industry must adapt to remain in line with such new growth, offering a viable and sustainable energy source to power new processes and machinery.

Expertise and experience to lead the industry.

Just as industry needs to upgrade plant and equipment to meet world standards and compete in local and international markets, compressed air systems must keep pace with new user demands.

Human resources is a vital part of industry development. And Management must be aware of industry trends, availability and implementation of latest technologies and build a team capable of supplying and servicing a wide spectrum of industry types.

Keeping pace, and in fact contributing to leading global compressed air technologies is the greatest challenge to Australian based suppliers in 2021 and beyond. With continuously rising energy costs across Australia and the whole industrialised world, compressed air must be delivered more cost efficiently and with an improved ‘energy in/energy output’ ratio than ever before, or alternative end-use power sources will eventually take over. Existing operators must update existing systems or embrace new

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They must also be proactive, keeping pace with and contributing to the evolution of global technologies that will maintain compressed air as the power source of choice, by a majority in their market industries. Sales and marketing people must fully understand the needs of the changing markets and be fully aware of the products and services required to meet demands, now and in the future. Financial personnel must be aware of ‘capital cost versus payback’ formulas and liaise with sales and marketing to deliver real term benefits proposals to customers.

The impact of COVID on the CA industry According to Mark Ferguson of Kaishan Australia, the restrictions placed on industry with reduced workforce, greatly changes working conditions and operating limitations affected the company’s bottom line. More importantly the effect on client companies and general suppression of business expansion reduced the demand for products, particularly in the smaller business sector.

in the sales and marketing areas. Our tech service teams are fully equipped and stocked to operate with minimal office interaction. Kaishan Australia will always support its staff to remain as safe and efficient as possible until we can drop the COVID from ‘normal’ .”

Proactive R&D is vital to maintain the industry As virtually all air compressors and system equipment sold in Australia are sourced from overseas based companies, locally based suppliers must ensure that their products are utilising the very latest in engineering excellence and energy saving technologies.

While companies saw complete or partial shutdown as an opportunity to upgrade or service existing equipment, Kaishan’s service division continued to operate utilising strictly Covid-safe procedures on a 24/7 basis. These kept clients operational at the highest efficiency possible.

They need to be proactive in inputting the needs of their customer base to local and international R&D programs. Industry diversity and local conditions must be considered in the development of products that fit the bill for Australian compressed air users. Current and potential customers must be kept up to date with global developments that will influence their future choice of products and brand.

Mark Ferguson, CEO of Kaishan Australia commented;

Available new technologies

“We planned to operate at maximum possible capacity with finely tuned contingency strategies which could be quickly implemented should Covid restrictions or lockdowns re-occur. We have re-assessed our future strategies to include rapid response to any predictable future conditions to ensure we maintain a supply chain and service protocol that ensures our clients receive the highest quality of product and support possible”. “As a supplier of advanced technology, energy efficient air compressors and systems, we are well prepared to face the changes of Covid-normal conditions should they continue throughout 2021 and beyond. While it is preferred that our workforce operate close to normal, we can operate with remote staff connections particularly

•

VARIABLE SPEED DRIVE: A highly automated functioning of industrial air compressors through variable speed drive technology, programs the compressor to provide for fluctuating demands in work schedules thereby using less energy in lower or non-usage periods.

•

ADVANCED 2-STAGE CONFIGURATION: This relatively new compressor type allows the compression ratio to be split over two distinct rotary screw airends resulting in compression ratios across each airend of around 3:1. The outcome is less slippage, less bearing loads and with intercooling, significantly higher outputs for the installed motor power. The output of a 2-stage compressor is typically around 20% higher than that of an equivalent singe stage compressor. Continued next page FEBRUARY / MARCH 2021

PRODUCTS

JACK'S HYDRAULICS SERVICES AND BONFIGLIOLI – BUILT TO STAND THE TEST OF TIME With a long-standing history, Jack's Hydraulic Services (JHS) and Bonfiglioli recently embarked on another successful installation for a customer in the heavy-duty industry.

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NEW AGE PMV AIR COMPRESSORS: Developed by Kaishan, this revolutionary compressed air system is an integrated combination of proven energy saving technologies in the compressed air industry today. It really is a unique systematic optimisation of an advanced compressor unit, superior airend quality and dynamics integrated with the latest in permanent magnet motors which require a lower kW input to maintain specified air demand. Kaishan’s PMV technology and engineering offers unsurpassed efficiency in compressors down to 22kW, providing models suitable for virtually any industry application.

When PMFV is applied through two stage technology models it can provide up to 50% increased efficiency over conventional compressor types. Kaishan Australia is one local compressed air company that strives to remain at the forefront in the supply and servicing of super energy efficient air compressors for all types and sizes of industry over a wide range of applications.

The company’s support and service teams are primed for a high demand in new equipment installations and regular service programs. With highly trained specialists to maximise operating efficiencies on all types of air compressors and system. Formerly operating as Southern Cross Australia Pty Ltd with over 40 years’ experience in the supply and service of high quality air compressors, Kaishan Australia sees itself in a far stronger and stable position to supply and service Australian industry. Mark Ferguson stated: “As our International slogan reads: ‘ENGINEERING THE FUTURE!’ is an insight that places R&D high on priorities to ensure we are proactive in the development of advanced technologies and engineering solutions that will benefit industry in Australia and throughout the world while reducing energy consumption for environmental sustainability”. Kaishan Australia 1300 089 901 www.kaishan.com.au

Founded in 1998, JHS is a premier distributor of Parker Hannifin in Australia and incorporates other exclusive bands such as UCC, Commercial Gear Pumps and Motors, VOAC and Denison Hydraulics into their comprehensive offering. Over the years JHS has become synonymous in the marketplace as a provider of engineering services, design, maintenance, and product support. Their customer base spans industries such as cotton, sugar, grains, transport, mining and more. JHS were recently tasked with a project for Jaws, a company based in Brisbane Southside, who manufacture specialised mining products and heavy machine attachments. An upgrade to existing mining digger buckets was required and thanks to their ongoing association with Jaws, were able to work directly with their engineering team the installation.

“The operation had to be smooth and accurate in terms of movements and positioning. Safety was also of primary concern.” Sales Manager for Bonfiglioli, Alan Young, says that the company also supplied drive pinions which were manufactured and supplied with the gearboxes. “These pinions were locally manufactured to exact specifications and lined up perfectly with the customer’s end design,” says Alan. “Using the hydraulic engineering expertise of JHS and the flexibility of Bonfiglioli products proved to be a winning combination. “I’ve had the opportunity to work with Neil over the past 10 years and his understanding of our products makes doing business with his company a pleasure.”

“Buckets weigh 80 tons and need to be positioned in all 4-axis capabilities for the welding operators to work safely,” General Manager for JHS, Neil Martin, explains.

JHS says the gearboxes installation fit like a glove, there were no hold-ups and received excellent after-sales support from Sales Engineer for Bonfigliol, Mel Coleshill.

“These are used to lift, tilt and rotate left and right.”

“This speaks volumes to the relationship between Bonfiglioli and JHS,” says Neil.

To provide the much-needed rotation function in this application, JHS looked to Bonfiglioli to deliver two planetary gearboxes per machine.

“Our engineering connection is strong and I, myself, have been engineering Bonfiglioli products into various applications for nearly 40 years.

Bonfiglioli is a worldwide designer, manufacturer and distributor of a complete range of gearmotors, drive systems, planetary gearboxes and inverters in industrial automation, mobile machinery and renewable energy sectors. “These gearboxes are remote controlled via a JHS designed and manufactured power unit and can rotate at all angles and positions,” says Neil while Bonfiglioli ticked all the boxes.

“Working in conjunction with three existing rotators, the new rotators have increased production by 40 per cent. Based on the success, Jaws is looking to upgrade the older units to the new design too.” Jack's Hydraulic Services PTY LTD (07) 3344 5944 www.jackshydraulics.com.au

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FEBRUARY / MARCH 2021

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INNOVATION

MEASURING THE MATURITY OF MANUFACTURING BUSINESSES TRANSITIONING TO A "NEW NORMAL" The pandemic has caused wide and immediate disruptions to supply chains and has compelled most manufacturers and distributors to reflect on their current operations. Many manufacturers and distributors across the ANZ region have had to shift their preference towards a cloud-deployed business solution in order to accommodate the increased need for collaborative tools to work remotely and enable businesses to “operate as usual”. This preference was echoed in a recent SYSPRO study into business resiliency during COVID-19. An online survey was shared with industry professionals of different managerial levels within the United States, Canada, EMEA and APAC. A key finding from the survey was that 29% of businesses stated that overall business systems availability and accessibility were inadequate, they indicated they would be pursuing cloud-based business systems moving forward. With the pandemic, their cautious hesitancy in adopting cloud systems has been allayed as they acknowledge that the cloud allows for collaboration, communication and business continuity. One of the biggest challenges that manufacturers face though is identifying what their level of digital maturity is so that attainable plans can be put in motion to help them transition to the cloud. There are many labels given to the different stages of digital maturity. Some speak of indifference, observer, challenger, and native categories; while others refer to traditional, emerging, engaged, competitive,

and maturing classifications as an example. No matter how it is categorised, some commonalities occur within each stage that can help identify an organisation’s digital maturity level. Some organisations are operating at a more traditional level, with most processes still happening manually, and with no current digital systems in place. The next level has begun creating a digital roadmap, where some processes are automated, and also has some applications hosted in the cloud, but they’re still early in their journey.

always be learning and embracing new and more enabling technologies as they emerge and that their digital transformation plans will need to be geared towards this continual growth and evolution. Essentially, digital transformation is about being capable of connecting or integrating systems, or implementing systems with the intention of integrating them. If there aren't any existing systems, these first need to be implemented. If there are existing systems, then these need to be integrated before the digital transformation process unlocks maximum value for an organisation. Prior to starting the digital transformation

Prior to digital transformation, it's important to understand the underlying culture The third level of maturity belongs to those who are actively pursuing a digital agenda, who can see the value that digitalisation promises, and have automated their core processes and embraced a hybridcloud environment. They’re competitive in the market but are looking to the future and realising they need a growth plan. Those on the upper level are driven by digital and follow a cloud-first approach. Their adoption strength and success lie in the ability to adapt with a high level of agility backed by visibility across the business and key insights drawn from data analytics. These businesses know that they will

journey, it’s important to having an understanding of the underlying culture of a business. Is it a risk-averse, risk-indifferent, or riskfriendly environment? Are there opportunities that will allow for cross-functionality to work across multiple sites and spanning multiple silos? Digital transformation is an ongoing effort to incrementally move a company forward in adopting new technology and unlocking value, either in terms of new market-share or in terms of efficiency and cost management. A trusted ERP advisor can help assess an organisation’s digital maturity and help to identify the specific current state of readiness.

Rob Stummer, APAC CEO at SYSPRO

When assessing a manufacturer’s digital maturity, consideration should be given to what level of manufacturing the business is working at. Is it a smart-solution-friendly industry? Does it allow for a high degree of remote controlling and automation? Will it benefit from investment in Internet of Things (IoT) solutions or is it predominantly still driven by manual processes? Many traditional businesses such as manufacturers are choosing to approach digitalisation more holistically, with multiple goals and stages in their journey bringing in different technologies when they are ready to incorporate them into their environment. The key to successful transformation is to proceed at a manageable pace, bringing in multiple technologies over an extended period of time to unlock value. It’s never too soon to start planning for the future and make good business decisions that positively impact the long-term sustainability of a company. The past year has taught manufacturers and distributors that if they want their businesses to stay relevant and ensure long-term business continuity, it is time to consider transitioning to the cloud as an enabler of connectivity, availability and accessibility.

PARALLEL GAS SUPPLY WITH AUTOMATIC SWITCHOVER KEEPS SYSTEMS MOVING An uninterrupted gas supply is an absolute requirement in many industrial manufacturing processes. A parallel installation of dual gas supplies linked by Witt-Gasetechnik’s automatic switch-over station promises the highest level of supply security. This solution also offers advantages during periods of peak demand and makes maintenance easy. The Witt changeover station monitors and controls two or more gas supply lines installed in parallel. These can be multiple gas mixers or a combination of gas mixer

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and emergency cylinder bundle. Meantime, integral gas analysers and pressure transmitters continuously send readings to the switching station which monitors the gas supply to ensure that it is functioning correctly. If necessary, for example in the case of a pressure drop, the switch-over device automatically activates the second system and stops the gas flow of the first. The switch-over is a seamless, continuous gas supply without loss of quality, meaning production downtimes are avoided.

A further advantage of the Witt solution is that a second system can be set to cut-in automatically to cover demand peaks. The short-term increased gas demand is met and there is no impairment of the production process. Maintenance or repair of the gas supply system is also easier to carry out with this parallel design. During maintenance, it is easy to switch over to the other system as and when required – without interrupting production. For evening out the load on the entire installation, the switchover between the

individual gas mixers can also be carried out automatically on a weekly basis. Operations are conveniently carried out via touch screen. For the control of additional external devices, the switch-over device also has optional potential-free contacts. Optical or acoustic alarm devices are also available.

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2021

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

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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

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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

PRODUCTS

STOCKCAP OFFERS CUSTOMISED SOLUTIONS Sinclair & Rush family of companies and has established itself as a leader in the field of product protection since 1950.

AFFORDABLE PACKAGE FOR TRACEABLE HUMIDITY CALIBRATIONS Both instruments are light and compact, allowing users to easily move the system to where it is needed most, or pack away if not required to save space.

Extensive moulding capabilities allow for a wider selection of vinyl, rubber and plastic plugs and plastic caps for general product protection.

The HygroCal100 is a lightweight, portable humidity verifier, which uses its reliable internal polymer reference to provide automatic verifications of the accuracy of RH probes.

Efficiently manufactured plastic products, including electrical connector caps and side pull plugs, are also created for a variety of uses. Furthermore, as the largest dip moulding company in the world, STOCKCAP offers greater options for your protection needs.

If you need work tools or products protected, STOCKCAP has you covered. STOCKCAP’s Clear Plastic Packaging Tubes are ideal for medical implants & devices, cutting tools, posters, welding rods, cosmetics, confectionary but, really… the applications are endless! Made in Australia, STOCKCAP’s seamless Clear Plastic Packaging Tubes are available from stock in 1.22 metre lengths and in a wide range of diameters from 4mm to 71mm with wall thicknesses ranging from 0.30mm up to 0.71mm depending on your packaging application. They also offer the tubes cut-tolength for your exact application however, MOQ’s apply. STOCKCAP is the foundation of the

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In addition to the large selection of stock products, they offer experienced engineers who are available to develop customised solutions for your product protection needs.

The ability to perform traceable humidity calibrations of probes inhouse is now within the reach of more users – thanks to a package offered by Michell Instruments available from AMS Instrumentation & Calibration.

As well as their packaging tubes, STOCKCAP’s Sydney manufacturing plant produce protective plugs, masking products, heatshrink products, hand grips and tubing inserts.

The benefits of performing calibrations in-house include less process downtime as well as reduced costs since fewer probes will be sent to external calibration laboratories. However, the capital outlay required for traditional systems was prohibitive for all but the largest companies.

Along with a wide range of product lines, STOCKCAP creates custommoulded parts designed to your specifications. Whether you need a standard tube end cap, a vinyl cap, or a custom part, StockCap can find the solution that works best for you.

StockCap 1800 00 3211 www.stockcap.com.au

Michell’s combination of the HygroCal 100 humidity validator with the Optidew 401 chilled mirror hygrometer is both reliable and affordable, placing in-house calibrations, with all their benefits, in the reach of more companies. Michell’s Optidew 401 chilled mirror hygrometer is traceable to national standards to provide a reference for humidity calibrations. It is accurate to ±0.15 °C dew point, ±0.15 °C temperature and connects easily to the HygroCal 100.

However, the HygroCal100 interface enables users to assign a hygrometer with an analogue output as a reference device. This allows the unit to be used to perform full calibrations of humidity probes, which are traceable to the reference used. In order to better serve customers with an extended range of humidity and temperature calibration products and services, Michell has partnered with fellow Process Sensing Technologies company, Rotronic, to provide the most versatile and extensive humidity calibration range on the market today. The offering includes commercial calibration services in ISO17025 accredited laboratories, fully functional dew-point calibration systems with climatic chambers as well as transportable humidity generators for field calibrations. AMS supply instrumentation and controls to all industries, government departments and public utilities in Australia, as well as New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and the Pacific region. AMS Instrumentation & Calibration (02) 8197 2825 www.ams-ic.com.au

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2021

PRODUCTS

NEW RADAR AND ULTRASONIC LEVEL SENSORS Measuring the levels of silos and tanks installed in challenging areas can prove difficult at the best of times. Turck’s new radar level sensors provide solutions for sensing applications up to a 10-metre range. The LRS510 radar level sensors are non-contact IP67/69K devices which are ideal for applications where traditional level sensors are unsuitable due to issues such as dust, wind or light. Without using their IO-Link capabilities they provide either two switch outputs or one switch output and one analogue output. They can be configured in distance, level or volume values. Utilising IO-Link and intelligent decentralised signal pre-processing Turck’s LRS510 radar level sensors offer detailed analysis functions previously only available on high-end radar devices in the process industry such as signal strength, temperature values, operating hours and switching cycles. When using the Turck IO-Link master, users can graphically display the measurement curve and access all relevant parameters without the need for extra software. This makes it possible to mask out interference from an agitator, align with real time feedback from the sensor or achieve other advanced outcomes. Turck’s LUS211 ultrasonic level sensors for small to medium sized tanks are designed to be reliable in adverse conditions. Suitable for use in pressure from 0.5 to 5 bar and for levels up to 40cm or up to 130cm the IP67/ IP69K devices offer continuous signal strength evaluation and a recessed sonic transducer which provides protection in the event of over filling.

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2021

Utilising IO-Link and intelligent decentralised signal pre-processing all variants of Turck's LUS211 ultrasonic level sensors can be parameterised to existing container geometry and can directly output distance, level or volume as absolute values or as a percentage. All Turck fluid 2.0 sensors, including both LRS510 radar and LUS211 ultrasonic level sensors offer easy commissioning and flexible installation with features

such as a rotating sensing head, intuitive touch display and a single piece smooth, translucent front cap. The touchpad of the LRS series with capacitive buttons and a translucent front cap, is based on the same concept as Turck’s Fluid 2.0 sensor platform, and enables the output of distance, level and volume values. Thanks to their additional IO-Link interface and intelligent decentralised

signal preprocessing, all variants provide a large quantity of additional information for processing in condition monitoring applications in IIoT: besides signal strength, this includes temperature values, operating hours or switching cycles.

Turck 1300 132 566 www.turck.com.au

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TEABREAK TRIVIA

THEY SAID IT.. The best industry and political quotes of the past and present: “We’ve learned again that democracy is precious. Democracy is fragile. At this hour, my friends, democracy has prevailed. From now, on this hallowed ground, where just a few days ago, violence sought to shake the Capitol’s very foundation, we come together as one nation, under God, indivisible, to carry out the peaceful transfer of power, as we have for more than two centuries.” US President Joe Biden at his inauguration. “President Trump’s actions that preceded the riot was a disgraceful -disgraceful -- dereliction of duty. there is no question, none, that President Trump is practically, and morally, responsible for provoking the events of the day. No question about it.” Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, minutes after voting to acquit Trump. “I have, by my own example today, joined by the Chief Nurse of Midwifery and the Chief Medical Officer of our country, together with those Australians who are in the top priority of this vaccination program, to say to you, Australians, it’s safe, it’s important.” Prime Minister Scott Morrison after becoming one of the first to receive the Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine. “Doesn’t matter if you’ve been to a green zone that’s never had a case of coronavirus in its history, you now need the Government’s permission before you

can come back to Victoria.” Victorian opposition leader Michael O’Brien after the state imposed a permit system on its border.

1. Grace Tame became the first person from which state to be recognised as Australian of the Year?

“I think it was rather disgusting behaviour. I don’t like booing at any event, and certainly any sporting event.” Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormick to the crowd that booed Tennis Australia president Jayne Hrdlicka after she mentioned coronavirus vaccines.

3. In what year did TV host Larry King retire from his show?

“I don’t know what happened after the third set, I just flew like a little bird. I was so much… how would I describe myself? Nirvana.” Tennis player and sometime Greek philosopher Stefanos Tsitsipas after overturning a two-set deficit against Rafael Nadal. “We call on the military to respect the rule of law, to resolve disputes through lawful mechanisms and to release immediately all civilian leaders and others who have been detained unlawfully." .” Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne after the Myanmar military arrested Aung San Suu Kyi in a coup. “I remind myself every morning: Nothing I say this day will teach me anything. So if I’m going to learn, I must do it by listening.” US talk show legend Larry King, who passed away in January.

1. There was an electrician and a plumber waiting in line for admission to the ‘International Home Show’. One of them was the father of the other one’s son. How could this be possible? 2. A man stood looking up at the apartment building across the street. This man was becoming a nuisance to a tenant, so the local authorities were called to have the man removed. A day later, when the authorities finally arrived, the man was gone. All they found was a hat and some buttons. Who was the man they just missed? 3. Jimmy Pyle was bragging about his church’s baseball team. He said: “Three of our players hit home runs and two of those home runs were hit with the bases loaded. Our guys won 9-0 and not a single man crossed home plate.” How was this possible?

1: Tasmania. 2: Pfizer. 3: 2010. 4: Tampa Bay Buccaneers. 5: Andrew Jackson. 6: Glass Animals. 7: North, Saint, Chicago and Psalm. 8: Joseph Allen Maldonado-Passage. 9: Mango. 10: Elaine.

1: They were husband and wife. 2: A snowman in a tenant’s parking spot. 3: They were all married.

Teabreak Trivia

ANSWERS

Lateral Thinking

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4. Who won Super Bowl LV? 5. The push for Harriet Tubman to replace which former US president on the American $20 note has resumed?

7. What are the names of Kim Kardashian and Kanye West’s kids? 8. What is Joe Exotic a.k.a the Tiger King’s real name? 9. What is India’s national fruit? 10. Which of Seinfeld’s four main characters did not appear in the show’s first episode?

SHIFT INTO GEAR

As the new year shifts into high gear, the Australian manufacturing industry continues to grow in leaps and bounds. Despite the pandemic and disruptions to global supply chains, optimism remains high in the industry with the vaccine rollout, a reduction in state border lockdown (hopefully) and renewed interest from governments. There are a number of events – both virtual and live – to look forward to.

LATERAL THINKING

2. Which Covid-19 vaccine was the first to be approved in Australia?

6. Who claimed top spot on Triple J’s Hottest 100 countdown?

We preview the upcoming events, review the virtual exhibitions and webinars and preview the Workplace Health and Safety Show, which is taking places for exhibitors for the September face to face event. Did you know the global robotic welding market size is expected to go into hyper speed, reaching US$8.31 billion by 2027? We’ll be taking our annual in-depth look at Welding and Cutting Technologies to get your brains sparked with new ideas, the latest news, developments and innovations from the sector. There’s our special feature on Machine Building, bringing together all the latest

developments in mechanical hardware and automation technologies We’re also putting Industrial Lighting in the spotlight, with news and features as well as products to keep your workplace shining bright. Meantime, Pollution Control and solving our ongoing environmental issues continue to be at the forefront of people’s minds as companies look to a greener future. How can you reduce your carbon footprint? Don’t forget all our regular reports on industry politics, waste management, electronics, workplace safety and environmental matters and you’ll have a magazine chock full news. Easter is just around the corner, so before your have your fill of chocolate eggs and hot cross buns, put your stamp on 2021 by joining us, so we can include you in our April magazine. If you want to advertise with us, call Scott, Dom or Glynn on 02 9439 1288. Or send your editorial to editor@ industryupdate.com.au by the end of March 2021 for the April issue.

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2021

Industry Update’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

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THE CENTREPIECE OF A WEEK-LONG CELEBRATION OF MANUFACTURING AUSTRALIA’S PREMIER MANUFACTURING SOLUTIONS EVENT IN MELBOURNE 8th – 11th March, 2022 Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre MELBOURNE | AUSTRALIA

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AUSTRALIA’S PREMIER ADVANCED MANUFACTURING & MACHINE TOOL EXHIBITION SIGN UP TO GET REGULAR NEWS ABOUT AUSTRALIAN MANUFACTURING WEEK AT WWW.AUSTRALIANMANUFACTURINGWEEK.COM.AU FOR MORE INFORMATION ON BOTH SHOWS, CONTACT AMTIL HEAD OF EVENTS KIM BANKS AT KBANKS@AMTIL.COM.AU AMW & Austech is proudly owned and run by AMTIL

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Industry Update February/March 2021 Issue 118

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