INDUSTRY | 07 - December 2024

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MARKET OVERVIEW HOW SMART TECHNOLOGIES ARE DRIVING SUSTAINABILITY 14

MARKET OVERVIEW SUSTAINABLE AVIATION FUEL: CURRENT STATUS AND FUTURE PROSPECTS 4 AWARDED FOR ITS SUSTAINABILITY

POWERING POSSIBLE: AI AND ENERGY FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE 34

4 SUSTAINABLE AVIATION FUEL: CURRENT STATUS AND FUTURE PROSPECTS

14 HOW SMART TECHNOLOGIES ARE DRIVING SUSTAINABILITY

22 SIEMENS DRIVES AI ADOPTION WITH NVIDIA-ACCELERATED INDUSTRIAL PCS

24 ROHDE & SCHWARZ PRESENTS THE R&S RTB 2, A NEW ENTRY LEVEL OSCILLOSCOPE WITH CLASS LEADING SPECIFICATIONS

26 A LEAP FORWARD IN PERFORMANCE AND EFFICIENCY

28 SECO MACHINE LIBRARY PROVIDES USERS INSTANT CUTTING DATA RECOMMENDATIONS

29 NEW DISTRIBUTED I/O BOX FROM BECKHOFF DETECTS COMPLEX MOVEMENTS WITH HIGH ACCURACY

30 EXXELIA EXPANDS FOOTPRINT IN INDIA WITH STRATEGIC INVESTMENT IN SVM, ENHANCING ITS MAGNETICS OFFERING FOR MEDICAL AND ADDING BUSBARS TO ITS POWER ELECTRONICS PASSIVE COMPONENTS PORTFOLIO

32 NEW EMERSON SOLUTION REDUCES ENERGY COSTS, CARBON EMISSIONS FOR MANUFACTURERS

34 POWERING POSSIBLE: AI AND ENERGY FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

36 INNODISK UNVEILS DDR5 6400 64GB DRAM SERIES TO EMPOWER EDGE AI AND GENERATIVE AI APPLICATIONS

38 FIVES COMPLETES TESTING OF NEW REHEATING BURNER FOR 100% HYDROGEN FUEL CAPABILITY

39 FACTORYTALK DATAMOSAIX FROM ROCKWELL AUTOMATION OFFERS EASE AND SPEED TO VISUALIZATION

40 IGUS® INTRODUCES NEW ENVIRONMENTALLY-FRIENDLY PFAS- AND PTFE-FREE BEARING MATERIAL

41 SERVOBELT™ LINEAR ACTUATORS NOW FEATURE MOLDED BELT TRAY, IMPROVING ASSEMBLY AND SERVICEABILITY

42 NEXANS SIGNS A STRATEGIC INVESTMENT AGREEMENT IN FRANCE TO INCREASE ITS COPPER PRODUCTION AND RECYCLING CAPACITY ACROSS EUROPE

44 EDP TESTS CONSTRUCTION OF ITS FIRST SOLAR PARK WITH AUTOMATION TECHNOLOGY

46 PANASONIC INDUSTRY INTRODUCES FIRST COMMERCIALIZED AI-EQUIPPED SERVO SYSTEM

47 MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC AUTOMATION LAUNCHES ROBOT WITH LARGEST REACH IN ITS LOWCOST ROBOT SERIES

48 STEUTE'S STM 515 EXTREME: DEFYING HARSH CONDITIONS

49 SOUTHCO INTRODUCES A NEW SLIM ERGONOMIC COMPRESSION LATCH

50 LHYFE AND GERMAN H2 MOBILITY PROVIDER KEYOU TO DEVELOP HYDROGEN MOBILITY, STARTING IN SOUTHERN GERMANY

52 VAN-BASED LUXURY VEHICLE “WELCOME ON BOARD” SOUTHCO'S AUTOMOTIVE INTERIOR SOLUTIONS

54 KOLLMORGEN ANNOUNCES ITS NEXT-GENERATION PCMM2G CONTROLLER

56 AGGREKO WHITEPAPER HIGHLIGHTS POTENTIAL OF GREENER BRIDGING SOLUTIONS TO ADDRESS POWER-RELATED CHALLENGES FOR DATA CENTRES

58 DELTA’S NEW BREEZ BENICIA CEILING FANS TRANSFORM AIRFLOW WITH STYLISH DESIGN AND ADVANCED ENERGY EFFICIENCY

60 NEW NSK HIGH-LOAD-CAPACITY TAPERED ROLLER BEARINGS SELECTED FOR WIND TURBINES

62 LATTY AUXILIARY SYSTEMS REDUCE THE ENERGY CONSUMPTION OF YOUR WATERPROOFING SYSTEMS!

64 AWARDED FOR ITS SUSTAINABILITY

66 INTERROLL AUSTRALIA EARNS ECOVADIS PLATINUM SUSTAINABILITY MEDAL

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SUSTAINABLE AVIATION FUEL: CURRENT STATUS AND FUTURE PROSPECTS

Milton D’Silva presents an overview of the current scenario in Sustainable Aviation Fuel.

The world faces a serious problem of climate change caused by greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. It is a widely known and accepted fact that GHG emissions, by trapping the heat of the sun in the earth’s atmosphere, cause global warming and the resultant climate change. The latter is evident from growing instances of extreme weather events – intense heat waves, floods, sporadic wildfires, tropical storms and hurricanes, causing much havoc, death and destruction. Another serious effect is the rise in sea level, which besides increasing the risks of flooding will also cause a shortage of potable drinking water. GHG emissions are caused mainly by human activities, most notably the use of fossil fuels (coal, oil & gas), the burning of which releases carbon dioxide (cO2), which account for over 75% of the GHG emissions. While carbon emissions and GHG emissions are not the same, cO2 is a major constituent of GHG emissions. Other emissions are caused by industrial activities, use of fertilizers, animal husbandry, deforestation, improper waste management and waste water treatment, etc.

e nergy and transportation are among the biggest contributors to global GHG emissions. Within transportation, aviation contributes 2% of global carbon dioxide emissions, besides also causing nitrogen oxides and other emissions, which together contribute 3% of the total GHG emissions. This is also confirmed by a report of the Intergovernmental Panel on climate change (IPcc). Though this appears to be a small percentage of GHG emissions in the transportation sector, aviation is today one of the fastest growing transportation segments and hence the need to initiate remedial measures to slow down, halt and reverse the trend, in line with the global quest towards Net Zero. For years, there have been efforts to address the issue, through a host of measures like improvements in airframes and engines, increasing operational efficiency, optimisation of airport operations, and even reducing the need to travel. Yet, one of the more promising measures to curtail GHG emissions in aviation is to promote the use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).

Neste MY Sustainable Aviation Fuel is a direct replacement for fossil jet fuel. Image source: Neste

What is Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)?

The International Air Transport Association (IATA), the apex trade association of the world’s airlines representing around 330 airlines representing 80% of global air traffic, defines Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) as a liquid fuel currently used in commercial aviation which reduces cO2 emissions by up to 80%. It can be produced from a number of sources (feedstock) including waste oil and fats, green and municipal waste and non-food crops. It can also be produced synthetically via a process that captures carbon directly from the air.

The International civil Aviation Organization (IcAO), a United Nations agency that helps countries develop and regulate civil aviation, defined SAF as renewable or waste-derived aviation fuel that meets sustainability criteria. A technical analysis done at Ic AO shows that SAF has the greatest potential to reduce cO2 emissions from International Aviation. In October 2016, the member states of the IcAO adopted a global market-based measure for aviation emissions – the carbon Offsetting and reduction Scheme for International Aviation (cOrSIA). This is a global offsetting scheme, whereby airlines and other aircraft operators will offset any growth in cO2 emissions above 2020 levels.

The Office of energy efficiency & renewable energy, USA, defines SAF as biofuel used to power aircraft that has similar properties to conventional jet fuel but with a smaller carbon footprint. Depending on the feedstock and technologies

used to produce it, SAF can reduce life cycle GHG emissions dramatically compared to conventional jet fuel.

How different is SAF from Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF)? conventionally, commercial aircraft, powered by gasturbine or jet engines, use aviation turbine fuel (ATF), which is a hydrocarbon-based fuel refined directly from crude oil. In simple terms, it is high purity kerosene-based fuel with – a low cost fuel with high flash point that makes it safer for transportation. ATF, in general, is a colourless fuel that contains additives to improve fuel performance and handling. There are many different types of ATF, including Jet A, Jet A-1, and Jet F-34/JP-8. each type has different characteristics, such as freezing points.

SAF and ATF differ in several ways, in that SAF is made from renewable or waste sources, while ATF is a conventional jet fuel derived from fossil fuels. SAF has a smaller carbon footprint than ATF, as it is made up of 67% isoalkanes, 25% normal-alkanes, and 8% aromatics, while conventional jet fuel is a blend of over 2,000 chemicals.

SAF can be produced from waste materials like household food waste and cooking oils, municipal/agriculture/forest waste or can be created synthetically from captured carbon dioxide and renewable electricity. ATF, on the other hand, is extracted from the ground and releases previously stored carbon into the atmosphere.

World Energy's SAF is made entirely of renewable resources and contains no fossil-based feedstock. Image source: World Energy

In terms of environmental impact, SAF can reduce life cycle GHG emissions by at least 60% compared to ATF, which releases cO2 emissions and has other warming effects due to nitrogen oxides (NOx), vapour trails, and cloud formation.

Airbus Industrie, which has a 60% market share of the civil aviation industry, emphasises that its aircraft are capable of flying on a maximum 50% blend of SAF and conventional fuel. However, by 2030, all Airbus aircraft and helicopters will be capable of flying with up to 100% SAF, it states. boeing, the other major player, also agrees that SAF offers the largest potential to reduce those emissions over the next 20 to 30 years. boeing has been a pioneer in making SAF a reality and believes aviation should be a priority user of sustainable fuel.

SAF can be blended with traditional jet fuel (kerosene) up to a maximum of 50%.

Types of SAF

SAF today is no longer an experimental fuel. Leading aviation regulatory authorities of the world including IATA and IcAO mentioned earlier, as well as the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the european Aviation Safety Agency (eASA) among others, have already put in place clear guidelines allowing the use of SAF. These organisations have also instituted compliance mechanisms to monitor the use of SAF by its members. Yet, SAF is not a single formula fuel. As noted earlier, it is a low-carbon replacement for fossil-based

jet fuel that meets ASTm standards for jet fuel safety. ASTm International (American Society for Testing and materials) is an international organisation at which technical standards for a wide range of materials, products, processes, systems, and services are developed. In the aviation fuel industry, ASTm serves as the international standard for jet fuel quality, and plays a crucial role in ensuring safety, quality, and reliability of SAF, which is produced from a variety of renewable feedstocks and comes in different types. ASTm D7566 is the governing specification for SAF, which is in addition to the D1655 standard meant for conventional jet fuel. ASTm D7566 is regularly updated as and when a new manufacturing process is approved. For a new SAF production pathway to be included in D7566, the fuel must undergo extensive testing to define the maximum blend ratio with conventional jet fuel and demonstrate such blend is fit for purpose. In effect, this means that SAF is certified to the same global specifications as conventional jet fuel. Other than ASTm, there is the UK Defence Standard (DefStan 91-091) specification that is widely accepted for SAF across the world.

There are several types of sustainable aviation fuels produced presently, which vary in their fuel feedstock type and production technologies. These include, but are not restricted to:

• SAF from wet waste – A carbon-negative fuel that uses carbon energy from food waste, animal manure, and other wet wastes.

• Bio-based polycyclic alkane SAF – m ade from bioacetone, which can be produced from biomass resources like corn stover or bioenergy crops.

• SAF from carbon-rich waste gases – Uses waste carbon monoxide from industrial processes, which is captured and upgraded into ethanol.

• SAF made from plant feedstock – Uses plants that absorb cO2 through photosynthesis, such as oil seed plants, energy grasses, and agricultural and forestry residue.

• Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids (HEFA) – Uses waste and residue fats, like vegetable oil, used cooking oil, and animal fats, as well as purposely grown plants like jatropha and camelina

• Alcohol to Jet – Alcohol to Jet (AtJ) converts alcohols such as ethanol and iso-butanol into SAF by removing the oxygen and linking the molecules together.

• eFuels – SAF can be produced using green hydrogen, capturing carbon dioxide, and using renewable electricity to create synthetic fuels. This type of SAF is sometimes referred to as synthetic SAF or eFuel produced by Powerto-Liquid (PtL) and Fischer-Tropsch process

• Algae-based SAF – Algae-based SAFs have the potential to be more environmentally friendly than traditional fuels because they have lower carbon intensities and lower particulate levels. However, the production of algae-based SAFs is still in its early stages.

Current status of SAF adoption

At the 77th IATA Annual General meeting in boston, USA, on October 04, 2021, a resolution was passed by IATA member airlines committing them to achieving net-zero carbon emissions from their operations by 2050. This was also supported by the long term aspirational goal (LTAG)

adopted by the 41st IcAO Assembly held from September 27 to October 07, 2022. According to IATA, this will require a combination of maximum elimination of emissions at the source, offsetting and carbon capture technologies. IATA envisages achieving this through the following steps:

• 65% by SAF

• 13% through new technology, electric and hydrogen

• 3% with infrastructure and operational efficiencies, and

• 19% through offsets and carbon capture.

The more immediate task however is to achieve a collective global aspirational vision to reduce cO2 emissions in international aviation by 5% by 2030, which is agreed to by IcAO and its over 100 member States at the third conference on Aviation and Alternative Fuels (cAAF/3) held in Dubai during November 2023. Against this backdrop, it would be interesting to examine the current status of SAF adoption globally.

The first test flight with SAF was performed by Virgin Atlantic in 2008 with biojet fuel. by 2015, IATA statistics indicate 22 airlines performed over 2,500 commercial passenger flights with blends of up to 50% SAF. In march 2016, United became the first airline to introduce a daily flight in the US from Los Angeles airport with SAF blend. by November 2019, a total of 45 airlines had flown over 2,50,00 flights and gained experience with SAF. 100 million litres of SAF was produced globally in 2021, which tripled to 300 million litres

in 2022, and further doubled to 600 million in 2023. Yet this represents only a minuscule 0.2% of the annual requirement of jet fuel presently, which means that it is still not widely adopted globally. On another parameter, the 600 million litres of SAF produced in 2023 accounts for a mere 3% of the total renewable fuel produced globally in 2023 for all sectors, which again indicates the wide gap that SAF must cover in terms of production capacity.

There are several reasons for the poor adoption of SAF globally, but at the moment, the main reason is the high cost of SAF which is almost thrice as much as conventional jet fuel or ATF. According to IATA estimates, even with the fluctuating prices of conventional jet fuel, SAF will still cost 2 to 4 times more than any aviation fuel. Given that fuel costs account for a third of an airline’s operational expenditure, the high cost of SAF will be passed on to customers, impacting business. However, the scenario is far from bleak. Use of SAF is still at the nascent stage and the industry, government and even environment conscious consumers are on the same page, convinced about the need for the Net Zero by 2050 deadline. According to a recent survey by rocky mountain Institute (rmI) – an independent, nonpartisan and nonprofit organisation with a stated mission of transforming the global energy system – airlines, logistics service providers, and corporate customers are willing to pay a green premium for SAF. rmI describes this as a classic chicken-and-egg problem where supply and demand are not growing fast enough to meet the emissions reductions

LanzaJet’s Freedom Pines facility located in Soperton, Georgia in US. Image source: LanzaJet

targets needed to avoid the worst impacts of climate change.

The other significant challenge is ramping up the production of SAF in anticipation of both – the rising demand for blending SAF and the growing requirement of fuel in an expanding global aviation market which is estimated to double over the next three decades.

Overview of current global SAF production capacity IATA estimates indicate that for international aviation to be 5% less carbon intensive by 2030 as agreed at the cAAF/3, about 17.5 billion litres (14mt) of SAF need to be produced.

In 2024, SAF production is expected to triple to 1.875 billion litres (1.5mt) from the 2023 figure, which is just about 0.5% of aviation’s fuel need. This means in the next six years, production should increase by almost 10X to achieve the 2030 target.

On the positive side, demand is not the constraint as every drop of SAF produced has been bought and used despite the premium in price. A recent survey has also confirmed that an overwhelming 86% of the air travellers are in favour of government support to incentivise SAF production.

According to IATA, the projected annual renewable fuels capacity to cater to the requirements of all industrial and

transportation segments by 2029 is over 78 billion litres (63mt). What it expects governments to do is set up a policy framework to incentivise renewable fuel producers to allocate 25-30% of their output to SAF to meet the 2030 goal. “At those levels aviation will be on the trajectory needed to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050. Until such levels are reached, we will continue missing huge opportunities to advance aviation’s decarbonisation. It is government policy that will make the difference. Governments must prioritise policies to incentivise the scaling-up of SAF production and to diversify feedstocks with those available locally. They need to deliver policy measures that can achieve the needed exponential increase in SAF production,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General, quoted in the IATA press release.

commenting on the agreements reached at c AAF/3, Haldane Dodd, executive Director of the cross-industry Air Transport Action Group, had said: “A shift towards a replacement of fossil fuels by SAF will require significant investment. The agreement helps to provide another layer of certainty to unlock the trillions in capital needed. Aviation has provided a near-term objective and the global framework. Now it is up to the finance community and energy sector to support the necessary infrastructure and start delivering SAF in ever increasing quantities. We need supportive government policies and supportive investment from the finance sector.”

IATA has summarised the policy framework for effective production incentives for SAF to support the following objectives:

• Accelerating investments in SAF by traditional oil companies

• ensuring renewable fuel production incentives encourage sufficient SAF quantities

• Focusing stakeholders on regional diversification of feedstock and SAF production

• Identifying and prioritising high potential production projects for investment support, and

• Delivering a global SAF Accounting Framework.

Major SAF producers

Going by a simple search on the internet, there are over 100 companies working on SAF globally. A recent report by mcKinsey & co in fact states that energy majors, airlines, start-ups, and scale-ups are pursuing more than 200 SAF production projects. Not all of these are operational, however – in fact very few are; others are in development, waiting for final investment decisions (FIDs), whereas many

are just at the planning stage. The following are among the leading companies engaged in producing SAF:

Neste – The world’s largest producer of renewable diesel and jet fuel refined from waste and residues, introducing renewable solutions also to the polymers and chemicals industries. Neste mY Sustainable Aviation Fuel is a direct replacement for fossil jet fuel reducing both carbon dioxide (cO2) and non-cO2 emissions. It is available and in commercial use today by many airlines and at airports around the globe. Neste mY SAF is made from sustainably sourced renewable waste and residues such as used cooking oil and animal fat waste and is compatible with existing aircraft engines and airport fuel infrastructure.

World Energy Houston LLC – The world’s first commercialscale producer of SAF and one of the largest and longestserving clean energy suppliers in North America. World energy’s SAF is a low-carbon fuel that can be used in existing aircraft engines and infrastructure without any modifications. This SAF is made entirely of renewable resources and contains no fossil-based feedstock. The

company currently produces SAF at its facility in Paramount, cA, and is working to launch a new SAF hub in Houston, TX.

Shell Aviation – An existing supplier of SAF to customers across North America, europe and Asia Pacific, including several of the world’s largest airport hubs. Shell Aviation is actively working across all parts of the value chain to support the aviation industry on the pathway to net zero. Shell is investing in SAF production and helps develop more technologies to produce SAF, as well as working to ensure all elements of the supply chain – from sustainable feedstock to blending facilities.

LanzaJet, Inc – In 2020, LanzaJet was founded to focus on the development of SAF via the commercialisation of its leading, exclusive and patented Alcohol-to-Jet (ATJ) technology. The company’s origins go back to 2010 when initial research and proof of concept began by its founder and partner LanzaTech and the US Department of energy’s Pacific Northwest National Lab. In 2022 LanzaJet received $100m in combined funding from m icrosoft’s Innovation Fund and bill Gates’ breakthrough energy. In 2023, the

company announced new projects across the world, including India, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand.

Alder Renewables – The c ompany has developed technology and projects to advance the production with its proprietary Alder renewable crude (Arc ) platform by harnessing the power of abundant and sustainable biomass to create a low-carbon to carbon-negative renewable energy. Arc can be converted into sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), low-carbon marine and transport fuels, and bio-based chemicals. Alder renewables is backed by Honeywell UOP, United Airlines Ventures, Dakia energy, Directional Aviation, and Avfuel. Its technology has been trialed and tested at the Department of energy’s National renewable energy Laboratory (NreL), with support from the US Defense and Logistics Agency.

Carbon Engineering – A team of innovators from around the globe with a shared mission and commitment of advancing large-scale Direct Air capture technology is how carbon engineering describes who they are. The process integrates three growing fields – Direct Air capture, green hydrogen production, and sustainable fuel synthesis – to deliver a highly scalable, clean fuel solution. These low carbon intensity fuels are drop-in compatible with today’s infrastructure and engines.

Gevo – To make energy-dense liquid hydrocarbons, Gevo uses low-carbon renewable resource-based carbohydrates as raw materials and is developing renewable electricity and renewable natural gas for use in production processes, resulting in low-carbon fuels with substantially reduced carbon intensity. These products perform as well or better than traditional fossil-based fuels in infrastructure and engines, but with substantially reduced greenhouse gas emissions. Gevo’s Alcohol-to-Jet Synthetic Paraffinic Kerosene (ATJ-SPK) is one of the few non-fossil-based alternative jet fuels (SAF) that is available for commercial use.

TotalEnergies – In 2021, Total e nergies launched SAF production in France and worked on projects that will lead to the production of SAF in other Totalenergies refineries, such as Grandpuits in 2024. The company has two preferred modes of SAF production: The first begins with the production of sustainable aviation fuel in a biorefinery. It is then delivered to a dedicated storage facility and blended with standard jet fuel in an amount of up to 50% to produce SAF. The second is co-processing, which consists in the insertion of biobased feedstock in addition to the usual fossil feedstock. At the end of the refining process, the result is SAF.

Red Rock Biofuels – Founded in 2011 to tackle the growing need for low-carbon, renewable jet and diesel fuels and the growing problem of catastrophic wildfire, red rock biofuels is uniquely positioned with the right engineering, technologies, management, and commercial partners to deliver sustainable biofuel with attractive financials and a scalable model. red rock’s Lakeview plant in the USA is the only facility deploying Fischer-Tropsch and hydroprocessing technologies at a commercial scale today for waste woody biomass. It will be the first plant in the world capable of using

waste woody biomass as feedstock to make renewable jet and diesel fuels.

SkyNRG – As more airlines and organisations choose to fly with SAF, SkyNrG is building europe’s first dedicated SAF production plant, and developing a facility in the Pacific Northwest of the US, and plans on developing additional SAF production capacity by 2030. With the support of many partners, including KLm royal Dutch Airlines and SHV energy, the SkyNrG facility will open in Delfzijl (The Netherlands) and will produce 100,000 tonnes of SAF every year. In addition, it will produce 35,000 tonnes of sustainable by-products, such as LPG and naphtha.

besides the companies directly engaged in producing SAF, there are several others that are working on technologies used for SAF production.

Honeywell helped pioneer SAF production with its UOP ecofining™ process – which has been used to produce the fuel commercially since 2016 – from vegetable oils, animal fats and non-food-based, and second-generation feedstocks such as camelina, jatropha and algae. Honeywell also provides ethanol to Jet technology and eFining™, which converts green hydrogen and carbon dioxide into e-fuels. recently the company announced its hydrocracking technology can be used to produce sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) from biomass. The Honeywell Fischer-Tropsch (FT) Unicracking™ technology takes liquids and waxes from processed biomass – including leftovers from crops, wood waste or food scraps – that can be used to produce SAF. World energy, bP, JGc and cosmo Oil, Acelen renewables, DG Fuels and Jiutai are among the companies using Honeywell know-how for SAF.

Topsoe, the well-known Danish company that provides technology and solutions for the energy transition, has also developed solutions for green fuels for low-carbon travel. It has introduced the cutting-edge HydroFlex™ hydroprocessing technology to produce SAF from waste oils, fats, virgin oils, solid biomass, and plastic waste. besites its single-point license G2L™ biofuels uses gasification process to turn waste feedstocks into liquid hydrocarbons. Sasol, HOL b O r N, Guangxi Hongkun b iomass and PT Pertamina Internasional are among the companies using Topsoe technologies to produce SAF.

KBR, another global company, has launched a differentiated SAF offering, PureSAF, in alliance with Swedish biofuels Ab, a technology developer and pioneer in cutting-edge research on biofuels. Kbr is supplying PureSAF as a singlepoint licensor of technologies and catalysts. In addition to processing ethanol, this technology can also convert carbon dioxide and synthesis gas to SAF. PureSAF has been validated and tested by DArPA, the USAF and the Swedish Air Force as 100% drop-in military specification jet fuel. recently Kbr announced that Avina clean Hydrogen Inc., has selected the innovative PureSAF technology for its new sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) project in the United States.

Honeywell’s modular design for its new ethanol-tojet sustainable aviation fuel technology. Image source: Honeywell

Conclusion

Will the aviation industry be able to achieve the net zero target it has set for itself by 2050? even as the target seems daunting, it is not impossible to achieve. The aviation industry has constantly improved its fuel efficiency and reduced the carbon footprint over the last three decades, through optimised operations and improved infrastructure, apart from technological advancements. A flight today produces only half the cO2 it did in 1990. Yet as seen in the preceding paragraphs, SAF can only reduce emissions by 65% according to IATA estimates. The remaining 35% reduction must happen through other measures like new technology – electric and hydrogen (13%); further improvement in infrastructure and operational efficiencies (3%); and through offsets and carbon capture (19%).

It is still too early to predict how soon electric propulsion and hydrogen as fuel would become a reality; but there are concerted efforts in this direction by existing aircraft manufacturers and new startups. cOrSIA is essentially an offset measure that will invariably diminish as more and more SAF production facilities are commissioned, but offsets shall remain one of the important pillars of net zero in aviation. With current production and projects in the pipeline, the 5% reduction in cO2 emissions by 2030 looks very much possible. So SAF remains the best option to achieve the net zero target by 2050, and for that to succeed, it needs government support and effective policy implementation backed by progressively stringent regulations.

References

1. https://www.airbus.com/en/innovation/energytransition/sustainable-aviation-fuels

2. https://www.iata.org/en/iata-repository/publications/ economic-reports/global-outlook-for-air-transport-june2024-report/

3. https://www.iata.org/en/programs/sustainability/ flynetzero/

4. https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/aerospace-anddefense/our-insights/how-the-aviation-industry-couldhelp-scale-sustainable-fuel-production

5. https://uop.honeywell.com/en/industry-solutions/ renewable-fuels/honeywell-sustainable-aviationfuel?utm

Honeywell's modular design for its new ethanol-to-jet sustainable aviation fuel technology. Image source: Honeywell

HOW SMART TECHNOLOGIES ARE DRIVING SUSTAINABILITY

This article by K.A. Gerardino explores the latest trends, industry leaders, and key insights into how smart technologies are shaping sustainability.

As global concerns over climate change, waste reduction, and energy conservation grow, industries are increasingly adopting smart technologies to drive sustainability. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), big data analytics, and automation has become vital in promoting efficiency, reducing environmental impact, and optimizing resources across sectors. Smart technologies are not only reshaping industries but also pushing forward innovative approaches to sustainability that address the demands of today’s conscientious consumers and regulatory pressures.

The Role of Smart Technologies in Sustainable Transformation

Smart technologies encompass a wide range of digital solutions designed to optimize processes, improve decisionmaking, and ultimately reduce carbon footprints. They allow industries to monitor and manage resources with unprecedented precision, promoting energy efficiency and waste minimization across sectors.

Key technologies driving sustainability include:

• IoT (Internet of Things): enables real-time data collection from sensors and devices, allowing for enhanced monitoring of energy usage, waste production, and resource consumption.

• AI and Machine Learning: Facilitate predictive analytics that optimizes supply chains, reduces energy consumption, and improves the overall operational efficiency of businesses.

• Blockchain : Assures transparency in supply chains, especially in tracking sustainable sourcing, ethical labour practices, and fair trade.

• Automation and Robotics: reduce waste and increase precision in manufacturing, leading to more sustainable production processes.

Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay

Emerging Trends and Technologies in Sustainable Smart Solutions

As we look toward 2025, market trends indicate that smart technology adoption will increasingly center around improving environmental metrics. Here are the primary trends expected to shape the landscape:

1. Carbon-Neutral Manufacturing and Supply Chains

According to a recent report by marketsandmarkets, the global market for carbon-neutral technologies is set to grow exponentially by 2025. companies like Schneider electric and Siemens are leading the charge with carbon management software that monitors emissions and reduces energy consumption. carbon-neutral manufacturing, once a distant goal, is now achievable through smart energy management and AI-driven supply chain optimization. companies are expected to leverage AI and IoT further to measure emissions accurately, adopt green energy sources, and streamline logistics for carbon reduction.

2. Smart Cities and Sustainable Urban Planning

The rise of smart cities marks a significant stride toward achieving global sustainability goals. According to the Smart cities market report, urban areas worldwide are deploying IoT and big data analytics to enhance energy distribution, reduce traffic emissions, and manage waste efficiently. cisco and Ibm are at the forefront of these efforts, creating IoT-enabled platforms that help cities track, analyze, and manage their resources to become more sustainable. by 2025, we can expect cities to rely even more on connected infrastructure, such as smart grids, to ensure resource efficiency and reduced urban emissions.

3. Renewable Energy Optimization and Smart Grids

r enewable energy sources, like wind and solar, often produce variable power. AI and IoT are proving instrumental in optimizing these sources by predicting demand and ensuring efficient distribution. According to a report by Grand View research, the smart grid market is expected to grow significantly by 2025 as utilities adopt AI and IoT for grid stabilization and energy management. companies like General electric and Siemens are pioneering smart grid technologies that integrate renewable energy, ensuring sustainable power distribution across urban and rural areas.

4. Circular Economy and Waste Management

A circular economy model aims to minimize waste by reusing, refurbishing, and recycling materials. companies like Loop Industries and Terracycle are utilizing AI for waste sorting and recycling, reducing the volume of waste sent to landfills. As reported by research and markets, smart waste management systems, which use IoT-enabled sensors to optimize waste collection and recycling, are expected to grow by 2025. These systems will become more prevalent, especially in industries like manufacturing and packaging, where waste reduction is vital to meet sustainability goals.

5. Precision Agriculture for Sustainable Food Production

Agriculture accounts for a significant share of global resource consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. Smart farming technologies, such as precision agriculture and drones, enable farmers to use resources more efficiently.

bayer crop Science and John Deere are already using IoT and AI in agricultural technology to track soil health, monitor crop growth, and reduce water usage. by 2025, more agricultural businesses will embrace precision farming practices, thus improving food production while minimizing environmental impact.

6. Smart Water Management

Water scarcity is a pressing global issue, and industries are turning to smart technologies to ensure efficient water usage. companies like Xylem Inc. and Veolia are utilizing AI and IoT to monitor and manage water systems. Smart water management systems can track leaks, monitor water quality, and control irrigation, reducing water waste. According to Allied market research, smart water management is expected to grow as more companies and municipalities invest in technology to address water shortages sustainably.

Industry Leaders in Smart Sustainability Solutions

Several companies have emerged as frontrunners in using smart technologies to drive sustainability. Some of these industry leaders include:

1. Schneider Electric

Known for its carbon management software and smart energy solutions, Schneider electric has helped numerous industries reduce their energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. Its focus on intelligent energy management is setting new standards for carbon neutrality in manufacturing and operations.

An example of Schneider electric’s impact can be seen in its partnership with global consumer goods giant Unilever. To help Unilever reach its ambitious sustainability goals, Schneider e lectric implemented an integrated energy management system across Unilever’s factories, utilizing its ecoStruxure™ platform. This platform leverages IoT-enabled devices and advanced analytics to monitor and manage energy use in real time. As a result, Unilever reduced its energy consumption by over 15% across multiple sites, cut greenhouse gas emissions significantly, and optimized production efficiency. This collaboration not only underscores Schneider electric’s expertise in smart energy solutions but also demonstrates the tangible benefits of adopting intelligent carbon management for large-scale manufacturing.

2. Siemens

With its strong emphasis on smart cities and sustainable infrastructure, Siemens is at the forefront of enabling carbon-neutral urban development. The company’s smart grid solutions and AI-driven energy management systems are paving the way for resource-efficient cities.

Siemens’ commitment to sustainable urban development can be seen in its partnership with Vienna, Austria, to develop one of the world’s first smart urban districts, Seestadt Aspern. Siemens provided its advanced smart grid and building management technologies to create an energy-efficient infrastructure that includes renewable energy integration, automated building controls, and real-time energy management powered by AI. Through

these systems, Seestadt Aspern achieves efficient resource distribution, with buildings and homes using 25% less energy on average compared to conventional urban developments. This project exemplifies how Siemens’ smart grid solutions and AI-driven systems support cities in meeting carbon neutrality goals while enhancing the quality of life for residents.

3. Cisco

A key player in smart city technology, cisco provides IoT solutions that enable cities to optimize transportation, energy distribution, and waste management. by fostering connected and efficient urban centers, cisco is driving sustainable urbanization.

An illustration of cisco’s impact in smart city technology is its work with barcelona, Spain, as part of the city’s Smart city barcelona initiative. cisco’s IoT solutions were implemented to connect infrastructure across transportation, lighting, and waste management systems. With IoT-enabled sensors installed throughout the city, barcelona now monitors real-time traffic flow, adjusting traffic signals to reduce congestion and emissions.

Additionally, cisco’s network solutions allow the city to optimize street lighting based on pedestrian and vehicle presence, reducing energy consumption. The smart waste management system uses connected sensors in trash bins to alert collection services only when bins are full, minimizing unnecessary pickups and emissions. This integrated approach to urban efficiency has helped barcelona achieve

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a more sustainable urban environment, illustrating cisco’s role in driving forward-thinking, connected city solutions.

4. Loop Industries

A pioneer in sustainable plastic recycling, Loop Industries uses innovative technology to convert waste plastic into high-quality, reusable materials. This approach aligns with the growing circular economy model and minimizes the environmental impact of plastic waste.

A good example of Loop Industries’ impact in sustainable plastic recycling is its partnership with Danone, a major global food and beverage company. Through this collaboration, Loop Industries supplies Danone with high-quality recycled Pe T (polyethylene terephthalate) resin, created from waste plastics using Loop’s patented depolymerization technology. This process breaks down PeT plastic waste into its base building blocks, which are then reassembled to produce virgin-quality plastic suitable for food and beverage packaging. by using Loop’s recycled Pe T, Danone reduces its reliance on fossil-based plastics, contributing to its sustainability goals while promoting a circular economy. This innovative approach helps to lower the environmental impact of plastic packaging by ensuring that waste plastic is continuously recycled into new products rather than ending up in landfills or oceans.

5. General Electric (GE)

Ge’s smart grid technology and renewable energy solutions are helping companies transition to greener energy sources. by using AI to predict demand and optimize distribution, Ge is making sustainable energy more accessible and reliable.

An instance of General electric’s (Ge) impact in sustainable energy is its collaboration with Southern california edison (Sce) on the World’s Largest battery energy Storage Project in california. Ge supplied advanced smart grid technology and renewable energy solutions, including a 100 m W battery storage system, designed to store surplus renewable energy from solar and wind sources.

Using AI-powered demand prediction and real-time distribution optimization, this system allows Sce to balance the grid more effectively by storing excess energy and releasing it during peak demand periods. This not only improves grid reliability but also maximizes the use of renewable energy, helping california reduce its carbon emissions and achieve state-wide clean energy targets. This project exemplifies how Ge’s smart grid and AI capabilities are instrumental in making sustainable energy solutions both reliable and scalable.

What to Expect in 2025: A Future Outlook on Smart Technologies and Sustainability

As environmental challenges intensify, 2025 is poised to be a transformative year for the integration of smart technologies into sustainability efforts. Driven by stringent global regulations, resource scarcity, and growing public expectations, industries and governments alike are adopting digital innovations to meet ambitious environmental goals, reduce waste, and drive efficient resource use. In many ways, 2025 will mark a turning point where smart technologies for

sustainability become the standard across industries, setting the stage for a cleaner and more resilient future.

Here’s a closer look at the most impactful developments anticipated for 2025 and beyond:

1. Wider Adoption of Carbon-Neutral Technologies

The journey toward carbon neutrality is accelerating as companies face increasing regulatory pressure and a heightened demand for transparent carbon accountability.

To address these challenges, more industries are expected to integrate carbon management tools powered by artificial intelligence (AI), data analytics, and Internet of Things (IoT) sensors. These tools provide companies with real-time data on emissions, energy use, and waste production, enabling them to make swift adjustments to minimize their carbon footprints.

c arbon-neutral technologies will become essential, particularly in high-emission sectors like manufacturing, transportation, and construction, where small inefficiencies can lead to significant carbon outputs. For instance, AI-driven platforms, combined with IoT sensors, will allow companies to monitor every stage of their production processes, from raw materials to product delivery, optimizing operations for maximum energy efficiency. by 2025, AI-enabled systems are likely to be widely adopted for monitoring energy consumption, minimizing emissions, and optimizing energy sources.

One example of this shift can already be seen in the automotive industry, where AI platforms are helping manufacturers optimize production schedules to avoid peak-hour energy use and cut back on greenhouse gas emissions. With sophisticated analytics, companies are making data-driven decisions about equipment maintenance, waste reduction, and process adjustments, all of which contribute to a more sustainable operational model. by 2025, these carbon-neutral technologies will not only help companies comply with emissions standards but will also drive greater operational efficiency, reducing costs while benefiting the environment.

2. Expansion of Smart City Initiatives

The concept of smart cities has gained momentum in recent years, addressing the challenges of rapid urbanization, resource demand, and environmental degradation. In 2025, the global expansion of smart cities is expected to accelerate as urban centers in developing and developed countries adopt IoT and AI-driven solutions to manage resources more efficiently, reduce congestion, and lower emissions. Smart city projects will focus on creating connected, sustainable, and livable spaces by integrating intelligent systems for transportation, energy distribution, and waste management.

connected infrastructure will be central to this expansion. c ities are expected to implement IoT-based traffic management systems that can dynamically adjust signal timing to minimize congestion, thus cutting down on vehicle emissions. Smart lighting systems, which adjust based on pedestrian and vehicle activity, will reduce

electricity consumption, while real-time data analytics will allow cities to monitor and manage air quality proactively, improving public health.

The impact of smart cities is already being felt in urban centers like Singapore, where smart technology helps regulate energy usage, traffic flow, and water conservation. As more cities follow suit by 2025, urban areas worldwide will benefit from reduced environmental impact, increased quality of life, and enhanced resilience to climate-related challenges. Developing regions, in particular, will see transformative effects as they leapfrog traditional urban infrastructure limitations to embrace technology-first city planning, creating efficient, green cities built for the future.

3. Advancements in Precision Agriculture

With a global population projected to surpass 8 billion, the need for sustainable food production has never been more urgent. Precision agriculture will be crucial in addressing this demand while minimizing environmental impacts, and by 2025, advancements in this field will enable more farmers to optimize crop yields and resource use through datadriven insights. IoT sensors, drones, and AI-driven analytics are set to become staples in agriculture, providing real-time information on soil conditions, crop health, and weather patterns.

These tools help farmers make data-informed decisions about irrigation, fertilization, and pesticide application, thereby reducing waste, conserving water, and minimizing chemical runoff that can harm ecosystems. For example, drones equipped with multispectral cameras can scan fields

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J-W from Pixabay

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for signs of disease or nutrient deficiency, allowing farmers to target treatments precisely where needed. Similarly, IoTenabled soil sensors monitor moisture levels to prevent over-irrigation, which conserves water resources and mitigates soil erosion.

Large agricultural companies and small farms alike are already exploring these technologies to increase efficiency and sustainability, particularly in regions facing water scarcity or extreme weather. by 2025, precision agriculture is expected to be a cornerstone of global food security, contributing to higher yields, better resource management, and a more sustainable agricultural sector that can meet the growing demands of a changing world.

4. Increased Investment in Circular Economy Models

In response to growing regulatory and consumer pressures, industries across sectors are accelerating their shift towards circular economy practices. A circular economy approach minimizes waste by emphasizing the reuse, recycling, and redesign of products to extend their lifecycle. As a result, companies will focus on developing durable, repairable, and recyclable products, which reduces reliance on raw materials and decreases environmental impact. by 2025, circular economy models will be widely adopted in industries like electronics, automotive, and fashion, marking a significant departure from the traditional “take-make-dispose” model.

electronics manufacturers, for example, are exploring ways to build devices with modular components that can be easily repaired or upgraded, extending product lifespans and reducing e-waste. Similarly, the fashion industry is investing in recycling infrastructure and sustainable materials, aiming to reduce the high environmental cost of fast fashion. With increased attention on sustainable product design, companies will embrace practices like product buyback programs, material recovery, and closed-loop recycling.

The shift toward circular economy models will also be supported by innovative material development, including biodegradable plastics and recyclable composites. As these practices become more widespread by 2025, supply chains will become more resilient and efficient, benefiting both the environment and long-term business stability. The circular economy represents a profound shift in resource management, promoting a sustainable approach to production and consumption that aligns with global sustainability goals.

5. Proliferation of Smart Grids and Renewable Energy Solutions

As global demand for renewable energy grows, the need for reliable and efficient power distribution will drive widespread adoption of smart grids. A smart grid combines real-time data from IoT sensors with AI-driven predictive analytics to stabilize energy distribution and manage demand efficiently. by 2025, the proliferation of smart grids will play a key role in decarbonizing the energy sector, integrating renewable sources such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

Smart grids provide utilities and industries with the ability to balance variable renewable energy output with consumer demand. energy storage systems, such as advanced battery solutions, will be essential to this process, allowing grids to store excess energy generated by renewable sources and deploy it during peak demand periods. This technology not only ensures a stable power supply but also maximizes the use of renewable energy, reducing emissions and supporting a clean energy transition.

An example of this trend can already be seen in california, where utilities have implemented large-scale battery storage projects to support the state’s ambitious renewable energy goals. by 2025, smart grid technology is expected to be widely adopted, enabling utilities to offer reliable, sustainable energy solutions and empowering businesses and consumers to make cleaner energy choices.

The integration of smart technologies into sustainability efforts is set to redefine how industries operate and how cities function by 2025. From adopting carbon-neutral technologies and building sustainable smart cities to enhancing food production and transitioning to renewable energy, these innovations are transforming industries in profound ways. The companies that proactively adopt these technologies stand to gain a competitive advantage, not only meeting regulatory requirements but also positioning themselves as leaders in sustainable innovation.

by 2025, the groundwork laid by AI, IoT, and renewable energy will help ensure that sustainability is embedded deeply within the fabric of modern industry and urban life. The future is one where smart technology not only enhances efficiency and productivity but also helps to address the pressing environmental challenges that impact us all. As these technologies continue to advance, they promise a future where sustainability is not just a goal but an integral component of a resilient and forward-looking global economy.

Conclusion

The convergence of smart technologies with sustainability goals is reshaping industries and transforming our approach to resource management. From reducing emissions and optimizing energy consumption to supporting a circular economy, smart technologies offer a powerful toolkit for tackling environmental challenges. companies that harness these technologies today will be better positioned to meet the demands of 2025, where sustainability will play a central role in business strategy and operational efficiency.

b y leading with smart technologies, industry pioneers are paving the way toward a more sustainable, resourceefficient future. As these innovations continue to evolve, they promise to make sustainability an achievable goal for businesses and cities alike, marking a new era of responsible growth and environmental stewardship.

SIEMENS DRIVES AI ADOPTION WITH NVIDIA-ACCELERATED INDUSTRIAL PCS

Estimated 25-fold acceleration in AI execution with Siemens’ integrated hardware and software enhanced by NVIDIA technology spurs efficiency, agility, and innovation.

Siemens announced the launch of a new line of Industrial Pcs (IPcs) equipped with NVIDIA’s GPUs. Along with an extended AI offering, that’s part of the Industrial Operations X portfolio, it will accelerate artificial intelligence (AI) applications and mark another milestone in the strategic partnership between Siemens and NVIDIA that was launched in June of 2022.

As a result, Siemens can now offer a scalable computing portfolio dedicated to high-performance industrial applications – from rugged Industrial Pcs to Industrial edge computing. The integration of the full-stack NVIDIA accelerated computing platform allows Siemens IPcs to handle complex AI tasks in advanced industrial automation, such as AI-based robotics, quality inspection, predictive maintenance, and operational optimization.

The new offering is estimated to bring a 25-fold acceleration in AI execution to the shop floor when using Siemens’ integrated hardware and software enhanced by NVIDIA AI and accelerated computing. This will help drive down costs and accelerate time-to-market for customers.

Supercharging AI applications on the shop floor with Industrial Operations X

With the increasing integration of AI and machine vision solutions in industrial automation, Siemens and NVIDIA are striving to make AI capabilities accessible to automation engineers without requiring extensive coding knowledge. This will further democratize access to these cutting-edge technologies.

In addition to no-code tools to integrate, manage, and execute industrial AI solutions, the Industrial Operations X portfolio comprises a wide range of out-of-the-box AI applications. For instance, Simatic robot Pick AI accelerated by NVIDIA enables OT users with no AI expertise to create AI-driven piece-picking robot solutions that meet critical

warehouse automation needs. The Siemens Industrial copilot for Operations powered by NVIDIA NIm microservices also runs entirely on-site and allows automation and maintenance engineers to make real-time queries about operational and document data in order to facilitate rapid decision-making and reduce machine downtime.

Full suite of Siemens IPCs powered by NVIDIA technologies

The newly launched Siemens IPcs are NVIDIA-certified systems, meaning that they are ready to deploy the many applications built with NVIDIA NIm microservices and edge AI frameworks, including NVIDIA Isaac rOS, Holoscan, and metropolis. The IPcs are designed to meet the stringent demands of industrial environments and withstand harsh industrial conditions while maintaining a small footprint, which ensures their reliability and longevity.

New devices include the embedded IPc Simatic bX-35A, a powerful and compact device based on the NVIDIA Jetson Orin NX systems-on-modules (Soms), for high-performance AI computing in a low-power and fan-less design. Other NVIDIA-powered devices include the Simatic IPc rW-545A (high-performance workstation), Simatic IP c r S-828A (high-performance server for production datacenters), and Simatic IPc bX-59A (high-performance modular box Pc).

The Simatic IPc bX-59A offers a comprehensive end-to-end solution for seamless and high-performance AI integration,

management, and execution in industrial environments. Along with the newly released robust AI Inference Server GPU accelerated powered by NVIDIA’s Triton™ Inference Server, customers can deploy and run AI models in industrial environments with no coding expertise. combining the AI Inference Server GPU accelerated with the Simatic bX59A as an edge device, Siemens has measured a 25-fold acceleration in AI execution on the shop floor.

All Simatic IPcs can be ordered with Siemens’ Simatic Industrial OS, a real-time Debian-based operating system that comes preinstalled with NVIDIA AI software, enabling rapid deployment of industrial AI applications.

www.siemens.com

Newly launched Simatic IPC BX-35A with integrated GPU by NVIDIA

ROHDE & SCHWARZ PRESENTS THE R&S RTB 2, A NEW ENTRY LEVEL OSCILLOSCOPE WITH CLASS LEADING SPECIFICATIONS

Rohde & Schwarz upgrades its oscilloscope portfolio with the new R&S RTB 2, an evolution of the R&S RTB2000, which was the first entry level oscilloscope to offer touchscreen operation and 10 bit vertical resolution. The R&S RTB 2 expands on these class leading features with an integrated arbitrary waveform generator and class-leading 160 Mpts segmented memory.

rohde & Schwarz enhances its portfolio of entry level oscilloscopes with the r&S rTb 2, the successor to the popular r&S rTb2000 oscilloscope. In 2017, the r&S rTb2000 set a new standard in its class, with features such as touchscreen operation and 10 bit vertical resolution – capabilities previously only available in higher end instruments. Now, the r&S rTb 2 continues this legacy, offering additional features and enhanced performance in a new color scheme.

With the r&S rTb 2, rohde & Schwarz introduces several important updates that further enhance the instrument’s functionality and versatility. First, the oscilloscope now includes an integrated arbitrary waveform generator. This addition allows users to simulate circuit stimuli or emulate missing components. The waveform generator is capable of generating signals up to 25 mHz and pattern speeds up to 50 mbits/s. It supports imported waveforms from cSV files or oscilloscope captures, with the ability to add noise for simulating real world conditions. It also includes predefined patterns for I2c, SPI, UArT and cAN/LIN protocols, providing users with the flexibility to select counters or manually input patterns.

The r&S rTb 2 stands out as a versatile, 10 in 1 instrument, combining an oscilloscope, protocol analyzer, logic analyzer, waveform generator and more. This multi tool integration makes it ideal for users who require compact solutions, especially students, hobbyists and engineers working in environments with limited space. The password protected education mode and built in web server enable viewing and control during lab sessions, further enhancing utility in educational settings.

Additionally, the r&S rTb 2 comes with expanded memory capabilities, allowing up to 160 m points in segmented mode and enabling users to capture more data for in depth troubleshooting. The revised r&S rTb 2-PK1 software option bundle further enhances the oscilloscope’s capabilities by offering a wider range of applications and enhanced performance.

Philip Diegmann, Vice President of Oscilloscopes at rohde & Schwarz, says: “Our goal with the R&S RTB 2 is to provide users with a highly versatile, everyday instrument for every task. From 10 bit resolution to 10 in 1 instrument versatility, this oscilloscope delivers solid performance at an accessible price point, offering the innovation and value engineers, students and educators need to succeed in their test and measurement tasks.”

rohde & Schwarz launches the new r&S rTb 2 oscilloscope at electronica 2024 in munich in hall A3.307 from November 12 to 15, 2024. It is now available from rohde & Schwarz and selected distribution channel partners. It comes in two and four channel models and offers bandwidths of 70 mHz, 100 mHz, 200 mHz and 300 mHz, with prices starting at 1,690 eUr for the 2-channel 70 mHz model.

www.rohde-schwarz.com

The R&S RTB 2 offers additional features and enhanced performance in a new color scheme.

A LEAP FORWARD IN PERFORMANCE AND EFFICIENCY

Komatsu Europe presents the next generation wheel loaders WA475-11 and WA485-11.

Komatsu is proud to present its latest generation of wheel loaders, the WA475-11 and WA485-11. These two new models are packed with state-of-the-art technology and offer great performance, efficiency, and operator comfort for a maximised customer value.

Unmatched Power and Efficiency

At the heart of new Dash 11 generation wheel loaders is a newly developed Komatsu diesel engine which is characterised by extremely high torque in the low speed range. This new engine is combined with a Komatsudesigned hydro-mechanical-transmission (HmT), resulting in unmatched performance, power reserves, fuel efficiency and ease of operation for all transport and loading tasks.

The WA475-11, for example, demonstrates a 14% improvement in fuel efficiency over its Dash 10 predecessor, while the WA485-11 achieves a remarkable 29% increase in fuel efficiency compared to its predecessor WA480-8.

Thanks to a constant variable gear ratio, the engine stays in a highly efficient fuel zone. Variable speed control makes it possible to individually adapt the machine's maximum speed to the requirements of the job site. The adjustable variable traction control effectively limits wheel spin in difficult ground conditions.

Significant Upgrade in Payload & Bucket Capacity

compared to its predecessor WA480-8, the WA485-11 has experienced a significant upgrade in payload and bucket capacity. All machine components have been adapted to a permanent payload of 8,800 kg and can even be increased to 9,300 kg in an aggregate handling variant, which helps to reduce the number of loading cycles required depending on the vehicle size.

Reduced Emissions

Komatsu's commitment to sustainability is evident in the new wheel loaders' advanced emissions control systems, which meet eU Stage V standards.

On top of that, the well-proven Komatsu exhaust system includes a diesel particulate filter (KDPF) and, together with the Selective catalyst reduction (Scr) system, which further reduces NOx emissions using Adblue®. These technologies, in conjunction with the particularly low-emission combustion, allows the diesel particulate filter to be replaced only every 8,000 hours; this interval can be extended even further by using particularly low-ash engine oils.

Mastering the Balance between Traction and Lifting power

Another new feature is the variable power control, which enables the lifting speed to be controlled independently of the accelerator pedal. Never before has it been easier for an operator to find the right balance between traction and lifting power. The optimised Z-bar linkage offers up to 20% more lifting power and a higher production rate of tons per hour. remarkable lifting speed and class-leading machine stability help to increase productivity, especially in tight V-shaped loading applications. In addition, the hydraulic response time and the tipping or lifting speed can be adjusted to specific application requirements.

Operator Comfort ensured by an Ergonomic Design

The new, operator-friendly and spacious cab offers generous all-round glazing and has an interior noise level of just 70 db(A). The heated rear window is angled, which effectively prevents dirt from sticking on the rear screen. The lever console has a new command control switch and is adjustable on a 5-way axis for each operator. The increased internal air pressure prevents dust and other particles from entering the cab. For easy and safe entry and exit, both machines are equipped with a rear-hinged door, angled steps and large handrails.

A new air-suspended seat dampens vibrations and thus ensures a more comfortable driving experience.

The seat-mounted electronic pilot control levers with a new ergonomic design improve operating comfort and reduce operator fatigue.

Higher Productivity driven by Innovation

The “automatic bucket filling” and other assistance functions help the operator maintain productivity even during long shifts.

A fully digital, high-resolution driver information system provides important machine measurements, including KDPF status and data on Ad b lue® levels and fuel consumption. messages from the ecO control system are displayed in real time during operation and on the exit screen when the ignition is turned off. The ecO control menu allows the operator to check operating logs and fuel consumption. These records are useful for reducing overall fuel consumption and can be saved and sorted by the operator.

Another key innovation is the newly developed AngleFeedback-Joystick-Steering (AFJS) without a steering wheel, which gives the driver feedback on the steering angle already achieved at any time via the position of the steering lever and is therefore very intuitive to use. Another benefit of this system is the elimination of the steering column, which helps to improve visibility of the work platform and space.

The programmable engine management system automatically switches the engine off when idling or lets the engine run to cool down after leaving the cab and then switches off automatically later.

Minimal Maintenance and Maximum Uptime

c leaning and maintenance are easier than ever. The radiator fan swings out and automatic reversing function as standard. An electrically tilting hood provides full access to the engine compartment. Additional side doors allow quick and convenient access for daily checks and maintenance. m aintenance costs are significantly reduced, resulting in lower life cycle costs. Full rear fenders are standard, an indicator on the Adblue® filler cap minimizes overfilling.

KOmTr AX telematics and the Komatsu care customer maintenance program provide first-class fleet management and support, protecting the machine from misuse and ensuring maximum efficiency and uptime.

www.komatsu.eu

SECO MACHINE LIBRARY PROVIDES USERS INSTANT CUTTING DATA RECOMMENDATIONS

Seco has launched an innovative web-based tool that provides customers with product-specific, instant, high-quality cutting data recommendations based on their machine information.

“ m achine Library is the latest addition to the Seco m y Pages portal that supports customers with a personalized digital experience on secotools.com,” said Seco Product Lead Simon Karlström. “customers can quickly access detailed cutting data for a particular tool based on their specific machine characteristics in addition to quickly getting product information. machine Library closes the loop with all the information an operator needs to get the machine specific cutting data straight away.”

Easily add machines and acquire cutting data

customers can easily add, edit and delete machines along with characteristics such as manufacturer, model, cNc, coolant, rpm, torque and power by simply logging in to their secure my Pages portal on SecoTools.com and navigating to m achine Library. Once the library is populated with machine information, customers simply add their machine in the cutting data tab on the product details page to obtain machine specific cutting data recommendations. Additionally, customers will be able to adjust machining parameters like cutting methods and number of passes to optimize their processes.

configuring and saving their individual machines in machine Library enables customers to easily integrate to future Seco digital products. calculating cutting data on their unique machine settings will give operators quicker and more accurate cutting data recommendations to avoid costly trial and error. machine-specific cutting data will help shops be more productive with increased throughput and decreased scrap.

Flexibility and adaptability meet changing requirements

Seco machine Library recommends cutting data for any combination of machine and tool. It can also supply the appropriate cutting data for new tools or existing tools moved to a new or different machine. The machine Library allows users to easily save and edit data on each of their machines.

www.secotools.com

NEW DISTRIBUTED I/O BOX FROM BECKHOFF DETECTS COMPLEX MOVEMENTS WITH HIGH ACCURACY

The EP3751-0260 EtherCAT Box from Beckhoff provides extremely accurate detection of acceleration and rotational motion.

With this IP67-rated module, engineers can optimize positioning and measurement in wide-ranging applications.

As a replacement for multiple previously separate devices, the machine-mountable e P3751-0260 connects an acceleration sensor with an inertial measurement unit (ImU), such as a gyroscope, in a housing that measures just 30 x 86 x 22 mm. As such, this unit can detect shock, vibration, and tilt, and deliver all measured data as pre-processed values and raw sensor data.

based on proven ethercAT box technology, the module integrates an ultra-low-noise, three-axis accelerometer with a 20-bit resolution and an adaptable measuring range of ±2, ±4, and ±8 g. The sampling frequency is 4 kHz. The built-in sensor is suitable for applications where low frequencies need to be monitored with as little noise as possible – e.g., monitoring building work, bridge monitoring, robotics, or condition monitoring.

The e P3751-0260 also features a low-noise, temperature-stable three-axis memS gyroscope sensor (6DoF ImU) to record even complex rotational motion. These two sensors enable high-precision measurement for a wide variety of motion applications using just one versatile I/O box module.

The high-performance e ther c AT connectivity ensures virtually delay-free transmission to the evaluating measuring system. The sensor data is parameterizable and can be transmitted as raw values (unprocessed and unfiltered) or as pre-processed measurement data. The latter can then be filtered, processed, and evaluated using TwincAT Analytics software, for example.

www.beckhoff.com

The IP67-rated EP3751-0260 I/O Box from Beckhoff provides accurate motion measurements with underlying raw data from the integrated sensors via ultrafast EtherCAT communication. (© Beckhoff, 2024)

EXXELIA EXPANDS FOOTPRINT IN INDIA WITH STRATEGIC INVESTMENT IN SVM, ENHANCING ITS MAGNETICS OFFERING FOR MEDICAL AND ADDING BUSBARS TO ITS POWER ELECTRONICS PASSIVE COMPONENTS PORTFOLIO

Exxelia, announces the acquisition of 70% of SVM Private Limited, a prominent Indian company specialized in the design and manufacturing of critical magnetic components and busbars, specifically serving the healthcare and industrial end-markets.

Founded in 1989 by Hemalatha and r amprasad meka, SVm has 35 years of expertise in the design, development, and manufacturing of coils, transformers, and laminated or coated/plated busbars. Over the years, the company has become a leader in critical magnetic solutions for medical imaging applications, leveraging its deep understanding of all relevant standards and strong commitment to quality.

m r. m eka, who serves as SVm’s m anaging Director will continue to own 30% of SVm and will remain in his current leadership role. Aside from an upcoming change of name where SVm will be renamed as exxelia SVm, the company will continue to operate from its current chennai facility and does not expect any material Team member turnover to result from the acquisition.

Through this partnership, exxelia is reinforcing its footprint in India, enhancing its product offer with busbars and expanding its know-how and expertise in magnetics while strengthening its position in the medical sector, a key area of development.

Paul maisonnier, chief executive Officer of exxelia, said: “We are thrilled to welcome SVM to the Exxelia family! SVM is a wellestablished leader in its niche market, recognized for its great technology and talented teams. By joining forces with SVM, we are significantly enhancing our magnetic product portfolio across a wide range of markets. Additionally, we are expanding our presence in India with a new magnetic manufacturing site,

complementing our existing capacitor facility. This strategic move will not only strengthen our support for French customers in meeting their offset obligations but also enhance our ability to capitalize on the rapidly growing Indian market.”

ramprasad meKA, Founder and managing Director of SVm, said: “SVM is delighted to be a part of Exxelia, a human-sized passive component group with deep expertise in magnetics for use in power electronics, medical equipment and Industrial electronics sectors. This partnership marks a significant milestone in SVM’s journey, enabling us to retain our talented team, while benefiting from Exxelia’s vast global sales network. We look forward to this new chapter, which will accelerate our international growth and enhance our global reach.”

KPmG corporate Finance acted as the exclusive financial advisor to the shareholders of SVm Private Limited for this transaction. On the legal side, VNS Legal Partners acted as the legal advisors to SVm shareholders and Pioneer Legal acted as the legal advisors to exxelia.

www.exxelia.com

NEW EMERSON SOLUTION REDUCES ENERGY COSTS, CARBON EMISSIONS FOR MANUFACTURERS

Energy Manager simplifies electricity monitoring, tracking real-time use to identify opportunities that can minimize waste and reduce emissions by up to 30%.

Emerson introduces its new Energy Manager solution, a plug-and-play system that streamlines industrial electricity monitoring, helping manufacturers optimize energy use, reduce CO2 emissions, and boost operational efficiency.

emerson has launched its new energy manager solution, a pre-engineered hardware and software offering designed to simplify industrial electricity monitoring with quick setup and intuitive operation. ready out of the box, the energy manager solution monitors asset energy use in real time, allowing manufacturers to gain deeper insight into energy consumption and operating costs, lowering carbon dioxide (cO2) emissions and maximize energy and operational efficiency.

most manufacturers, including original equipment and industrial manufacturers, consumer packaged goods companies and food and beverage producers, face mounting pressure to increase productivity while reducing energy use and environmental impact. Yet industrial machinery is energy-intensive, consuming high power even when idle. To better meet efficiency and sustainability goals, operators need the best possible visibility into their facilities’ energy use to address waste and inefficiencies.

e merson’s e nergy m anager solution provides energy measurements in real time, allowing plant managers to quickly view detailed values and see savings opportunities, such as idle consumption and peak loads. The software’s easy-to-use dashboard provides asset-specific energy use, associated costs and cO2 emissions for up to 10 end points (expandable to 50 endpoints with a license).

This level of visibility gives organizations greater control to identify idle machines and optimize machine schedules during off-peak hours, reducing electricity use across the plant floor and significantly lowering overall utility costs. most facilities can reduce energy waste up to 10-30% and carbon emissions by up to 15-30%.

e merson’s new e nergy m anager solution helps manufacturers cut energy costs and carbon emissions by up to 30%, offering real-time electricity monitoring to identify and minimize waste.

Highly scalable and easy to integrate with new or existing energy meters, the energy manager solution makes it easy to commission and quickly realize return-on-investment. The software is available either preinstalled on edge hardware, such as the PAcSystemsTm rXi2-bP industrial

Pc, or as a stand-alone application that can be installed in a virtualized environment.

For more extensive media and utilities monitoring, the e nergy m anager can be paired with the e merson compressed Air manager to provide a streamlined view of energy costs and compressed air usage of machines across a production line, factory and site.

www.emerson.com

POWERING POSSIBLE: AI AND ENERGY FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

ADNOC, Masdar and Microsoft have jointly published a new report exploring the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in driving the global energy sector towards a net zero future.

The report, titled “Powering Possible: AI and energy for a Sustainable Future”, highlights AI’s potential to optimize energy efficiency, manage complex energy systems, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and innovate carbon-free energy solutions while addressing the growing energy demands of AI technology itself.

To create the report, the authors surveyed more than 400 experts across the fields of energy, technology and AI, academia and finance, including His excellency Omar Al Alama, UAe minister of State for Artificial Intelligence; Jensen Huang, ceO of NVIDIA; Larry Fink, ceO of blackrock; Professor Anima Anadkumar of caltech; and Patrick Pouyanné, ceO of Totalenergies. The survey revealed that 92% of energy executives believe AI will have a significant impact on improving energy efficiency by 2030, and that by 2050, 97% expect AI to play a central role in developing new energy solutions. These findings emphasize AI’s potential to decarbonize traditional energy sources, drive efficiency gains and accelerate the energy transition.

The report highlights AI’s capacity to reduce methane emissions – a greenhouse gas that is 80 times more effective at trapping heat than carbon dioxide (cO2). Advanced AI tools being developed are anticipated to detect methane leaks with up to 20% greater accuracy compared to legacy technologies. These innovations are expected to play a vital role in helping the energy sector achieve the Global methane Pledge, which aims for a 30% reduction in methane emissions by 2030.

The report also provides a roadmap to address AI-driven data centers’ rising energy demands, which are projected to nearly double their share of global electricity demand by 2026. The report highlights that while at a global scale

AI’s electricity consumption is relatively small, in some regions, electricity demand for data centers can be a large percentage of total load. For example, according to the IeA, in the european Union, where data center electricity demand is expected to increase at ~9% per year, demand could exceed 5% of the total regional load by 2026.

building on the significant progress already underway to bring more carbon-free energy online, the collaboration between the technology and energy sectors is crucial to ensuring that growing electricity demand is met through sustainable and carbon-free energy solutions. masdar, the UAe’s clean energy champion, highlights within the report the opportunity for AI to transform the global clean energy industry, as the data centers the industry requires will serve as an increasingly important driver of global energy demand, adding that to meet this demand sustainably will

require a multifaceted approach to unleash the full potential of AI.

click here to view the full report.

www.adnoc.ae

INNODISK UNVEILS

DDR5 6400 64GB

DRAM SERIES TO EMPOWER EDGE AI AND GENERATIVE AI APPLICATIONS

Innodisk, a leading global AI solution provider, announces its DDR5 6400 DRAM series, featuring the industry’s largest 64GB single-module capacity.

This 6400 series is purpose-built for data-intensive applications in AI, telehealth, and edge computing, where high performance at the edge is crucial. Available in versatile form factors, including cUDImm, cSODImm, and rDImm, the series delivers unmatched speed, stability, and capacity to meet the rigorous demands of modern edge AI and industrial applications.

The DD r 5 6400 series delivers a data transfer rate of 6400 mT/s, offering a 14% boost in speed over previous generations and doubling the maximum capacity to 64Gb. These enhancements make it an optimal choice for applications like Large Language models (LLms), generative AI, autonomous vehicles, and mixed reality, which require high-speed, reliable data processing in real time.

Innodisk’s DDr5 6400 series integrates several advanced technologies to ensure stable, uninterrupted performance:

• client clock Driver (cKD): enhances signal integrity by buffering clock signals, which is essential for minimizing noise and ensuring accuracy during high-frequency data transfers.

• Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS): Offers robust protection against voltage fluctuations, safeguarding sensitive components.

• eFuse circuit Protection (rDImm): Designed to interrupt the circuit in case of overvoltage, preventing damage to components in server systems with higher voltage requirements.

• Wide Industrial Temperature range: The DDr5 6400 series is designed to operate in temperatures from 0°c to 95°c (Tc) and will soon support an extended range of -40°c to 95°c (Tc), making it ideal for challenging industrial environments.

• Anti-Sulfuration Protection: 30μ” gold plating protects against sulfurization, ensuring long-term durability.

The DDr5 6400 series is fully compatible with the latest Intel and AmD processors and supports a range of options— cUDImm, cSODImm, ecc cUDImm, ecc cSODImm, and rDImm—with capacities from 8Gb to 64Gb, giving users flexible configurations for varied use cases.

beyond cloud-based AI, Innodisk’s DDr5 6400 memory modules are ideal for next-generation edge AI applications, where real-time responsiveness and enhanced security are crucial. For instance, smart factories can leverage LLms to consolidate and manage complex production data instantly, supporting swift decision-making. In remote healthcare, high-resolution 3D imaging and real-time data analysis empower precise, remote surgical procedures for patients. In releasing the DDr5 6400 series, Innodisk reinforces its commitment to delivering innovative memory solutions that drive advancements in AI, telehealth, and industrial automation.

For more information, please visit https://www.innodisk.com/en/index

FIVES COMPLETES TESTING OF NEW REHEATING BURNER FOR 100% HYDROGEN FUEL CAPABILITY

Using hybrid burners and digital twin technology, its industrial integration will contribute to decarbonizing the reheating process of furnaces and represents an important milestone for the steel industry.

Its industrial integration will contribute to decarbonizing the reheating process and represents an important milestone for the steel industry. This important achievement was presented at the 4th TWINGHY General Assembly on October 8-9, 2024 in madrid, Spain.

The new AdvanTek® burner development began 18 months ago as part of the TWINGHY project. The consortium, cofunded by the european Union, brings together academic and industrial partners to reduce cO2 emissions from reheating furnaces using hybrid burners and digital twin technology.

Key test measurements

AdvanTek® burner prototype recently passed key measurement tests in bar-Le-Duc, France, meeting the requirements for NOx emissions, structure and heating profile. The burner can run on a mix of natural gas and hydrogen and is designed to maintain the same productivity even when hydrogen content is reduced.

“These tests have shown that it is possible to use hydrogen burners to decarbonize the steel industry. Thanks to our expertise in thermal reheating, we were able to design and develop a new hybrid burner that uses multiple energy sources

to reduce CO2 and NOx emissions. This burner will help steelmakers achieve environmentally friendly performance,” says Sébastien caillat, r&D combustion chief expert at Fives Stein, a Fives subsidiary specialized in thermal technology.

Industrial integration

The next step of the project includes revising the existing furnace design to accommodate the newly validated AdvanTek® burners in celsa’s furnace no. 3 in barcelona, Spain. In the summer of 2025, eight full-size hybrid burners will be installed in an existing walking beam furnace with a capacity of 180 tonnes per hour. They will be the first of their kind to be installed on an industrial scale.

“Over the next few months, we will be involved in a challenging project: we have to ensure that the new, larger burners and their electrical and piping systems are correctly installed in the limited furnace footprint. This is the final step before the industrial integration of the burners, which will be a world first in the steel industry,” says Oiane Gerrikagoitia, calculation and r&D manager at Fives Steel Spain, a Fives subsidiary.

www.fivesgroup.com

FACTORYTALK DATAMOSAIX FROM ROCKWELL AUTOMATION OFFERS EASE AND SPEED TO VISUALIZATION

FactoryTalk DataMosaix enables customers to manage the application and their data on cloud platforms such as Microsoft Azure, Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Google Cloud Platform (GCP), or in an on-premise datacenter.

rockwell Automation introduces FactoryTalk® Datamosaix™ App builder, a low/no code application development builder that’s tightly integrated with FactoryTalk Datamosaix Private cloud, an industrial DataOps solution providing flexible options that fit most business needs. FactoryTalk Data m osaix enables customers to manage the application and their data, if required, on cloud platforms such as microsoft Azure, Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Google cloud Platform (GcP), or in an on-premise datacenter.

Now, with the App builder, customers can easily and quickly configure new dashboards with a variety of pre-defined visualization tools in a drag-and-drop interface. render content on a desktop or mobile device and easily select contextualized data from FactoryTalk Datamosaix Private cloud.

With this innovative solution, rapidly build static reports that are automatically generated and shared with teams: schedule automated reports on a defined frequency, export PDF reports and set up email distribution lists to automatically share reports with stakeholders. And quickly view data in charts without creating or changing existing dashboard and visualizations.

Industrial DataOps is about breaking down data silos and optimizing how industrial data is used across the organization. Domain experts and data scientists need simple access to complex industrial data to solve tough problems that drive transformational outcomes in productivity, quality and sustainability. The solution brings data to the people who need it across the organization for a new level of productivity and innovation.

www.rockwellautomation.com

IGUS® INTRODUCES NEW ENVIRONMENTALLY-FRIENDLY PFAS- AND PTFE-FREE BEARING MATERIAL

igus® announces it has developed a new polymer bearing material called iglide® JPF that is free of both per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). This innovation marks an important step in the company’s efforts to create sustainable alternatives to conventional plain bearings.

Due to their water, heat and dirt resistance, PFAS and PTFe are key materials in the production of selflubricating plain bearings in a variety of industries. However, PFAS degrade slowly, posing risks to both human health and the environment.

Addressing these concerns, iglide® JPF is a plain bearing material delivering high wear resistance and durability without the use of PFAS or PTFe. This dry-running, wearresistant polymer offers comparable friction and wear performance to iglide® J, and its development is a response to growing global regulatory pressures to limit the use of harmful substances in industrial and consumer products.

“From the onset of the discussions about a potential PFAS ban in Europe, we prioritized the research and development of alternative materials,” said Dr. magnus Orth, Head of the igus® material center. “Our in-house material development and compounding capabilities enable us to quickly respond to regulatory changes and offer new solutions that meet market demands.”

“Users who have relied on iglide J for their machines and systems can now opt for a PTFE-free alternative with equivalent performance,” said Lars butenschön, Head of the iglide Plain bearing Technology business Unit. “Our goal is to transition our standard materials to PTFE-free formulations. We are already in the process of developing alternatives for materials such as iglide X and iglide W300, and early test results have been very promising.”

With the launch of iglide® JPF, igus® is reinforcing its commitment to developing sustainable products that comply with the latest regulatory standards. As igus® continues to innovate, it remains focused on providing high-performance solutions that reduce their environmental impact and meet the evolving needs of igus® customers.

For more information, visit www.igus.com

igus® has developed iglide JPF, a new self-lubricating plain bearing material without PFAS. (Source: igus GmbH)

SERVOBELT™ LINEAR ACTUATORS NOW FEATURE MOLDED BELT TRAY, IMPROVING ASSEMBLY AND SERVICEABILITY

Bell-Everman announces that its latest generation of ServoBelt™ Linear actuators features a design enhancement that simplifies the assembly and installation of long-travel motion systems including gantry and linear robots. The new design, which involves the lower static toothed belt, also strengthens ServoBelt’s ability to non-destructively withstand high-force events, such as carriage crashes.

In earlier designs, the belt adhered to its aluminum carrier using 3m’s VHb adhesive tape. While strong, the VHb did complicate the assembly and installation process, requiring integrators to accurately apply the adhesive tape onsite at the actuator’s end-use location. This process also made it difficult to splice sections of Servobelt together — which is essential when building systems with long travel axes — requiring higher attention to detail and cleanliness.

Improving on the earlier design, Servobelt now has a “rack” of teeth molded directly into the actuator’s aluminum carrier. The rack offers precision tooth forms identical to the static belt it replaces and is molded from an equally rugged polyurethane — with a 50 Shore D hardness and minimum 4,500 psi tensile strength. The design now allows integrators to splice Servobelt sections just as easily as they would with a traditional rack-and-pinion, using a simple tool similar to a tooth rack. It also offers significantly more resistance to tearout forces than the earlier design.

The latest generation of Servobelt includes the new molded belt trays, along with Qr codes to take personnel directly to the splicing instructions on the bell-everman website.

Learn more at: https://www.bell-everman.com.

NEXANS SIGNS A STRATEGIC INVESTMENT AGREEMENT IN FRANCE TO INCREASE ITS COPPER PRODUCTION AND RECYCLING CAPACITY ACROSS EUROPE

With a production capacity increased by over 50%, the future Lens plant will be able to recycle up to 80,000 metric tons of copper per year.

Nexans, a global leader in electrification, has announced a major industrial partnership agreement with continuus Properzi, a specialist in continuous casting technologies, to build an innovative copper production and recycling plant at the Nexans site in Lens, northern France, for 2026.

Global demand for copper is continuing to increase and recycling is emerging as a key solution to possible shortages of this metal, which is essential to electrification. Nexans is taking steps to address this major challenge with a project on a unique scale.

This strategic decision is based on the operational expertise of the Nexans site, founded in 1971 in the industrial center of Lens, and the technological expertise of continuus Properzi, a supplier of complete installations for the production of eTP (electrolytic Tough Pitch) and FrHc (Fire refined High conductivity) wire rod. The objective is to continuously produce wire rod from recycled copper, through a state-ofthe-art refining method using up to 100% of recycled metal, while optimizing water and energy consumption.

The Lens plant is the only copper rod foundry in France With this investment of over €90 million, it will increase its wire rod production capacity by over 50%, and boost its copper scrap recycling capacity to manage up to 80,000 metric tons per year. Nexans is already actively involved in cable recycling through recycâbles, a joint venture set up with Suez in 2008. With this new initiative, the Group has become a key player in the circular economy of the european copper industry. Implemented for the first time in France, this process will help to create a circular model by collecting waste from different sectors of industry across France and reusing it virtuously for new finished products.

As the leading global player in this sector with its own copper foundries[1], Nexans is vertically integrated. The Group is entirely self-sufficient in terms of the copper supplies required for its entire cable production value chain. This key strategic advantage will be consolidated by the new plant, which will allow the Group to recycle more cables from construction sites or “urban mines”.

Nexans’ ambition is to adapt the life cycle of its products, reducing their carbon content, while also decreasing the carbon footprint of the cable industry as a whole. This investment is also part of the Group’s efforts to raise the proportion of recycled copper in its cables to 30% by 2030.

The new site further consolidates Nexans’ presence in Lens, increasing the number of jobs while creating a new working environment for staff. This project is part of France 2030, the investment plan for France. It is also in line with the company’s e3 performance model, bringing together economic performance, the environment and employee engagement.

[1] Cathodes and copper scrap are processed at four foundries, in France (Lens site), Canada, Peru and Chile.

www.nexans.com

EDP TESTS CONSTRUCTION OF ITS FIRST SOLAR PARK WITH AUTOMATION TECHNOLOGY

This is the first time worldwide that the technological solution, based on robotics and advanced computing, developed by Comau, has been tested in real installation conditions in an EDP solar park.

eDP, a global leader in the renewable energy sector, will test the construction of its first photovoltaic solar park under real life installation conditions on a large scale with the automation technology Hyperflex. The project, named AutoPV, is located in Peñaflor, Valladolid, Spain and will use automated solutions in 3mW of the total 122mW of installed capacity, through a robotic solution.

With an ambitious portfolio of solar projects globally and a growing focus on technology and the hiring of qualified professionals, eDP’s innovation area identified an opportunity to automate some of the construction operations of a photovoltaic park. In 2022, eDP began an in-depth study of the technological automation solutions and, after several analysis phases, moved on to the implementation of the project in July of this year.

“EDP is at the forefront of the global trend of automation in the renewable energy sector. By investing in a solution as innovative as this, we contribute to making the construction of solar parks faster, more efficient, safer and more sustainable. We believe that technology and innovation are a decisive ally in accelerating the energy transition, that’s why this is a strategic axis of investment and growth for EDP on a global scale”, says António coutinho, ceO of eDP Innovation.

b y investing in the automation process, e DP aims to achieve greater efficiency in the construction of solar parks, significantly accelerating the project schedule, with the expectation of reducing the assembly time of the solar panel structure by up to 50%. This model of humanmachine collaboration also allows robots to perform the heaviest tasks, such as handling structures and solar panels, while workers dedicate themselves to more specialised technical functions, creating an effective balance between technological strength and human expertise.

In addition to improving efficiency, automation directly contributes to increased safety in the workplace. This process

opens up room for continuous improvement, as automated technology makes it possible to identify and implement optimisations in future projects, ensuring progressive progress and greater speed in the construction of solar parks, allowing the energy transition to be accelerated.

“ The pilot in Peñaflor is just the first step in introducing automation solutions into EDP’s robust solar business plan. EDP’s goal is to transform this into a global and integrated process, capable of generating competitive advantages for all the company’s operations and enhancing our human capital for more qualified activities”, concludes António coutinho.

The project is supported by the automation technology of comau, an Italian company and global leader in the design and manufacture of robots and automation solutions for different sectors, such as automotive and shipbuilding. The pilot project consists of the construction of part of the solar park using a mobile factory, called Hyperflex, which includes an automatic assembly station where the photovoltaic structure is pre-assembled, and a rover that transports and positions this structure at the final location on the ground. This entire system is transported in trucks to the solar park, where it is then built and assembled on site. Automation with Hyperflex and the rover has three main phases: unloading and assembly from the truck, operation (i.e. structure construction) and disassembly for the next mission.

“The collaboration with EDP confirms the importance and added value of automation in renewable energies and particularly, in this case, solar panel installation. It is also a recognition of our constant commitment to developing innovative solutions that are also flexible to respond to different requirements. Thanks to our advanced technology, we allow our customers and partners to experience better quality, increased efficiency, and lower overall costs, helping them contribute to making sustainable solar energy a reality“, said Pietro Gorlier, Comau CEO.

currently, 98% of all energy produced by eDP already comes from renewable sources, including solar, where the company has an installed solar capacity of more than 4GW. eDP, as a leader in the global energy transition, maintains its ambitious sustainability goals, including the commitment to abandon coal-fired generation by 2025, be 100% green by 2030 and achieve net zero by 2040.

www.edp.com

www.comau.com

PANASONIC INDUSTRY INTRODUCES FIRST COMMERCIALIZED AI-EQUIPPED SERVO SYSTEM

MINAS A7 servo drives offer AI for ultra-high precision automatic tuning complementing the abilities of experts.

recently introduced and now available for customer orders in europe, the new compact mINAS A7 servo drive family from Panasonic Industry is the industry’s first commercialized AI-equipped servo system. The devices use Panasonic Industry’s independently developed precAIse tuning, making full use of AI technology to achieve highly precise automatic tuning without any need for an expert engineer. This also reduces setup time by up to 90%.

with a compact design saving space and resulting in cost effectiveness. Last but not least, mINAS A7 servo drives are backward compatible to mINAS A6 devices. They are 1:1 replaceable thanks to the same interfaces and flange size.

m INAS A7 motors and drives improve equipment performance while simplifying installation and operation. Thanks to the integrated AI the servo system can even automate tasks in areas where experts are needed to spend time for tuning machines manually due to unsatisfactory performance from conventional automatic tuning functions. The product also achieves the industry’s highest level of motion performance with an encoder resolution of the servo motor with 27 bits and 134,217,728 pulses/ time. The speed response frequency, which indicates the control performance of servo amplifiers, reaches an industry high of 4.0 kHz or greater. Furthermore, the servo motor achieves a maximum rotation speed of 7,150 r/min which contributes to shorter cycle times. The mINAS A7 impresses

Philipp Zebisch, Senior Team manager Product management at Panasonic Industry comments: “Our newly introduced MINAS A7 servo drive family ensures an extremely stable operation and longer service life of machine components thanks to the online monitoring tools. With the development of the MINAS A7 series, we have achieved an optimum of humanmachine operations due to its highly intelligent automation and monitoring capabilities. They reduce installation time and maintenance costs and guarantee the highest processing quality and speed in numerous applications like spin coaters, dicing saws, chip transfer machines, IC handlers, bonding equipment, equipment for substrate inspection, metal and laser processing machines, injection molding machines, presses and pipe-bending machines.” www.panasonic.com

MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC AUTOMATION LAUNCHES ROBOT WITH LARGEST REACH IN ITS LOW-COST ROBOT SERIES

The MELFA RV-12CRL vertically articulated robot has the largest reach of any robot in Mitsubishi Electric’s low-cost robot series, at 1,504mm, and a 12kg payload capacity.

mitsubishi electric Automation is reputable for its flexible and high-performance robots available in diverse payloads, reaches, and price ranges to accommodate customers’ unique needs. New to mitsubishi electric’s low-cost series of robots, the meLFA r V-12crL vertical articulated robot offers a 1,504mm reach and 12kg payload capacity to cover a large work envelope, eliminating the need for a vertical life of an additional axis. built-in features provide enhanced safety, streamlined implementation, and an overall reduction in downtime.

The r V-12crL features internal cables and air hoses for end-of-arm tooling, including 30 pins of signal cabling. m itsubishi electric has eliminated the need for encoder batteries that may cause tedious, expensive maintenance by adding meLSer VO-J5 servo motors, known for their battery-less encoder nature. Safety is a forethought, not an afterthought, with this robot launch through added safety via its cr800 controller to support safety monitoring functionality. The r V-12 cr L series of robots possess versatile eOAT configurations, giving customers flexibility when selecting end-of-arm-tooling for the robot, making this series of robots appropriate for machine tending, case packing, and pick-and-place applications.

When asked about the customer benefit of this launch, Product m anager (r obot) curtis Sylliaasen stated, “The launch of the RV-12CRL robot marks an exciting opportunity for our customers to experience the quality and performance known by our industrial robot lineup at the price of a collaborative robot.”

us.mitsubishielectric.com

STEUTE'S STM 515 EXTREME: DEFYING HARSH CONDITIONS

With the Ex STM 515 series, the steute business division Controltec recently introduced compact and robust solenoid interlocks for explosive zones to its range of safety switchgear.

This series is now being further extended to include an "extreme" variant. As always at steute, this means: the STm 515 "extreme" can be used in adverse ambient conditions, such as dust, dirt, wet and vibrations.

Prerequisites include a robust die-cast aluminium enclosure with a long lifetime even when exposed to severe mechanical wear and tear. The multiple coating (passivation, primer, powder coating) guarantees a high degree of corrosion protection, while the effective sealing achieves protection classes IP66/67. Wet and damp are thus not a hindrance when using the STm 515 extreme – especially since the electrical connections are well protected inside a terminal compartment. Shocks and vibrations are additional ambient conditions in which this STm 515 variant continues to function reliably.

Independently of the extreme variant, the complete STm 515 series includes practical features such as an actuator head which can be repositioned by 4 x 90°. e qually typical of steute switching devices is a modular design with diverse additional functions. For example, users can choose between the spring-to-lock and the power-to-lock principle (for tasks which are non-safety-related), and also opt for auxiliary release (from the access side) and/or escape release/emergency unlocking (from the danger zone).

Applications which can benefit from the new steute STm 515 extreme include machines and plants in the bulk goods industry with no explosion protection requirement.

www.steute.com

SOUTHCO INTRODUCES A NEW SLIM ERGONOMIC COMPRESSION LATCH

Southco has launched the E3 Compact MIM compression latch, bringing new ergonomic and safety features to the durable family of compression latches in a low-profile package.

Southco e3 compression latches are well-known for their durability and quality across a wide range of industries. They keep panels securely fastened, sealed, and vibration resistant no matter the environment.

but Southco wasn’t satisfied with “good enough.” In their constant pursuit of innovation, they reimagined the e3 with a shorter head (4mm vs. the normal 6.4mm), 180-degree ergonomic actuation, and visual indicators machined into the latch and color coded to easily show when it is open or closed.

If that isn’t enough, the new compact e3 is manufactured using metal injection molding ( m I m ), lowering manufacturing costs and passing them on to the customer. The final product is beautifully polished for a sleek, lowprofile look that performs under pressure.

For more information about the e 3 c ompact m I m compression latch, please visit southco.com

LHYFE AND GERMAN

H2 MOBILITY PROVIDER KEYOU TO DEVELOP HYDROGEN

MOBILITY, STARTING

SOUTHERN

GERMANY

IN

With the green hydrogen production capacity planned by Lhyfe in the Schwäbisch Gmünd region, around 100 trucks can be put into operation between 2026 and 2030.

Lhyfe is currently building its largest production facility in Schwäbisch Gmünd near Stuttgart, Germany. The plant, which is expected to be installed by the end of the year, will be capable of producing up to 4 tonnes of green hydrogen per day (10 mW installed capacity). Lhyfe has secured the supply of green electricity for this site by signing a long-term contract for the supply of renewable electricity (corporate PPA) with eDP renewables, for a period of 15 years.

Lhyfe also announced in early September that the company will supply four filling stations operated by H2 mObILITY Deutschland in Germany over a five-year period, starting in 2025. The first hydrogen deliveries will supply four filling stations, including two in baden-Württemberg (mannheim and Heidelberg). At the end of 2023, Lhyfe had announced that its green hydrogen will also be used to power the “H2Aspen” industrial park and a JeT H2 hydrogen filling station, now called mINT.

K e YOU is a recognized technology leader in the development of hydrogen combustion engines. The company is developing both a conversion technology, to convert existing diesel trucks into hydrogen vehicles that meet the zero- cO2 requirements of the eU heavy-duty vehicle legislation, and a “Hydrogen Mobility as a Service” approach, with a full range of services (vehicle and engine conversion, service and maintenance package, insurance and, if required, the fuel).

The two partners have announced that they have signed an agreement to develop hydrogen mobility in Germany and europe, with an initial focus on the baden-Württemberg region. KeYOU gives priority to regions capable of fueling its vehicles with green hydrogen.

With the production capacity planned by Lhyfe in the Schwäbisch Gmünd region, KeYOU would be able to put up to 100 vehicles into operation between 2026 and 2030, with an annual ramp-up of 20 trucks. The project will start in the Schwäbisch-Gmünd area, with other regions in Germany to follow. The estimated hydrogen demand for 100 vehicles is about 1,000 tons of hydrogen per year.

• The partners intend to work together to develop localized ecosystems that bring together the infrastructure for the production and distribution of renewable hydrogen, and the use of heavy-duty hydrogen vehicles.

• The partners intend to collaborate to develop a joint approach including vehicles, green and renewable hydrogen and refueling solutions, and promote it to key customers. The goal of the agreement is to secure the availability and affordability of green hydrogen to power KeYOU’s hydrogen vehicles operation.

• KeYOU will use Lhyfe’s digital platform, Lhyfe Heroes, to showcase its vehicles and encourage interested users to get in touch.

www.lhyfe.com

Lhyfe and KEYOU have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to develop hydrogen mobility in Germany and Europe.

VAN-BASED LUXURY VEHICLE “WELCOME ON BOARD” SOUTHCO'S AUTOMOTIVE INTERIOR SOLUTIONS

ZEEKR is a new electric vehicle (EV) brand from Geely, a Chinese automotive company. Founded in 2021 in Ningbo, China, ZEEKR provides intelligent premium electric vehicles through new technologies and solutions. As a newly developed automotive maker, ZEEKR aims to create synergy between human and machine, striking a delicate balance between aesthetics and technology.

ZeeKr 009, the company’s first multi-Purpose Vehicle (mPV) e V, launched in 2022. It redefines the mPV, combining elegant design with a roomy and comfortable space. ZeeKr sought an integrated foldable table solution for this interior.

With the help of Southco, ZeeKr 009 makes the travel experience more convenient for passengers. Its flip-out table is designed to be lightweight, durable, and compact enough to conceal it in the armrest without taking up additional space. Southco engineered a customized solution specifically designed for ZeeKr. It not only meets the rigorous demands of the automotive industry but serves as an exquisite ornament that perfectly aligns with ZeeKr's expectations.

Challenge

ZeeKr sought a tray table solution for ZeeKr 009's interior, which requires integrated capability from end to end.

Solution

Southco engineered a custom solution by seamlessly embedding the classic AH bifold positioning hinge in the flip-out table. This solution not only withstands the rigorous demands of the automotive environment, but also meets ZeeKr's high quality and aesthetic standards.

Value

Southco’s commitment to innovation and excellence ensures ZeeKr’s desire for luxury and comfort and elevates the experience for passengers.

The Challenge

ZeeKr, an emerging electric vehicle brand, was looking to create a foldable table solution that could seamlessly integrate into the opulent interior of the Z ee K r 009. This solution posed a multifaceted challenge, which encompassed various aspects of design, engineering, aesthetics, and user experience.

No manufacturer in Asia had ever attempted such a feat, especially one employing friction technology for all rotating pivots and the attachment of leather to an aluminum alloy surface using glue. Additionally, it had to offer smooth 180° operation while maintaining low noise. These stringent

requirements also included mirror polishing and chrome plating finish options, and a balance of high rigidity and low weight in a constrained space.

While conventional wisdom held other manufacturers back from stepping into uncharted territory, Southco leapt at the chance to push the boundaries of what’s possible.

The Solution

In response to this formidable challenge, Southco delivered a fully customized solution that meticulously catered to ZeeKr ’s specific requirements. Supplier in Asia lack the necessary expertise to design and manufacture flip-out tables, so this is Southco's first attempt at creating such a product. Driven by passion for perfection, Southco collaborated with a professional leather supplier to explore various finishes, seeking the perfect touch to adorn the magnificent ZeeKr 009. As a result, the table developed by Southco achieves a sleek and sophisticated look that aligned perfectly with the ZeeKr 009’s luxury image.

Southco engineers confirmed the optimal operating force and the resistance to vibration by applying the friction technology from Southco AV and AH hinging solutions. The hinging solution features constant torque, which allows for controlled resistance through the entire range of motion. Additionally, the flip-out table is designed with Southco positioning technology. Passengers are able to silently operate the table with ease, and hold it securely in any position even under vibration or dynamic loads, facilitating smooth 180° operation without requiring any adjustments.

Occupying minimal space, this hinging solution allows flipout tables to deploy to a secure horizontal position, and then easily fold and stow flat when not in use. Say goodbye to bulky and cumbersome table mechanisms – Southco

delivered a streamlined solution that maximizes both functionality and space efficiency.

Implementation and Results

This four-year journey from design to production exemplified Southco’s dedication to crafting innovative solutions that go beyond the norms of functionality, durability, and ergonomics. The 180° rotating table with minimal flatness deviation, optimized weight distribution, and premium leather attachment demonstrated Southco’s commitment to customer satisfaction.

The Value

b y collaborating with Southco, Z ee K r enhanced its commitment to providing a premium and convenient travel experience for its passengers. The integration of Southco's flip-out table solution in the ZeeKr 009 eV interior adds a touch of sophistication and practicality. With its lightweight and compact design, the table seamlessly blends into the armrest, optimizing space utilization. The use of the friction and positioning technology from Southco hinging solutions ensure smooth operation, stability, and silence, fulfilling ZeeKr's desire for luxury, comfort, and attention to detail. This elevates the overall driver and passenger experience, setting ZeeKr apart as a brand that prioritizes both aesthetics and functionality.

Southco's Tray Table Solutions

“ Southco’s partnership has been transformative. Their attention to detail and dedication to perfection propels ZEEKR to a new height. The foldable table solution they provided has become a hallmark of the ZEEKR 009.” chen, model Director.

www.southco.com

KOLLMORGEN ANNOUNCES ITS NEXT-GENERATION

Kollmorgen delivers greater performance, flexibility and ease of use in a new, powerful programmable motion controller for simple to highly complex automation environments.

Kollmorgen has released its new P cmm 2G programmable motion controller. This highly scalable controller offers simple integration with systems based on the Kollmorgen Automation Suite as well as with third-party devices, bringing new capabilities and greatly increased performance to everything from standalone machines to complex, modular automation systems.

The P cmm 2G controller is compatible with previousgeneration PDmm and Pcmmcontrollers from Kollmorgen, offering a simple migration path while enabling greater flexibility and a 1.5–3.5x faster fieldbus cycle rate than Pcmm and PDmm. It also supports most third-party automation systems while improving performance and ease of use.

Leading performance

Kollmorgen’s new controller is based on a 1.5 GHz quad-core processor that delivers industry-leading cycle times. It is designed to support everything from small, simple machine modules to high-complexity automation environments with up to 64 axes of synchronized path motion, including S-curve and other complex moves.

The Pcmm2G controller also includes 16 Gb of internal flash memory, six digital inputs, two digital outputs, integral functional safety modules and an onboard human-machine interface panel

Seamless integration

100bASe-T connectivity supports UDP, HTTP, m odbus®, ethernet/IP and PrOFINeT® for fast integration with most systems. Dual ethernet ports allow system configuration while connected to an industrial network. An uninterruptible real-time clock with battery backup, plus support for an external time-keeping server via network time protocol (NTP), ensures precise timing and synchronization across all axes.

For Kollmorgen PDmm and Pcmm controller users, the Pcmm2G offers a simple upgrade path with step-by-step migration assistance. And all customers can count on full support, both online and live.

Simple usability

Plug-and-play capabilities with Kollmorgen Automation Suite and third-party systems ensure easy setup. Integrated tools simplify and speed network configuration, servo tuning and machine optimization. Support for file management and backup/restore is provided through a USb slot to accommodate removable flash drives.

When employed as part of the full Kollmorgen Automation Suite, the Pcmm2G controller offers the additional benefits of simplified inventory, reduced setup time, consolidated software, and the confidence of having one trusted automation supplier with fully integrated components and complete system validation.

www.kollmorgen.com

AGGREKO WHITEPAPER HIGHLIGHTS POTENTIAL OF GREENER BRIDGING SOLUTIONS TO ADDRESS POWER-RELATED CHALLENGES FOR DATA CENTRES

With capacity issues, legislative and environmental concerns currently causing a huge strain for data centre operators across Europe, a new whitepaper has highlighted that the answer for many data centres may lie in green bridging solutions.

bridging the energy Gap for european Data centres from Aggreko looks at the energy challenges currently affecting the industry across the continent. Grid connection delays due to power constraints, with long waits expected for projects, are causing huge delays across industry, while the impact of inefficient energy solutions on business bottom lines is even greater thanks to higher energy bills.

meanwhile, legislative and environmental concerns are also increasing. To align with the eU’s 2050 net zero emissions scenario, emissions must be halved by 2030 to mitigate impact on climate change and rising global temperatures. This will require the industry to continue to be vigilant to ongoing decarbonisation pressures and adapt accordingly to tightening legislation, especially construction rules within major cities.

billy Durie, Global Sector Head – Data centres at Aggreko, said: “Despite the huge growth in the data centre sector across Europe, we are keenly aware of the challenges it is now facing. With environmental, financial, and legislative pressures all at incredibly high levels, there is a chance that these external factors may affect the industry’s expansion.

“Taking note of these potential problems is important if the growth of the data centre industry is to continue,” added billy. “With demand soaring for more digital services, issues surrounding the correct specification of the right equipment and the tightening of sustainability legislation need to be addressed by viable solutions for the industry to keep going on the correct path.”

considering these concerns, the whitepaper offers several actions that data centre stakeholders can take to avert these issues. These include sourcing greener bridging solutions such as battery energy storage systems (beSS), Stage-V generators, and hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) that can provide short- to long-term power for projects in the absence of a grid connection.

A specific example raised in the white paper was a case study in the republic of Ireland. The client discovered they would not be able to connect a data centre they were developing for a client in Dublin until several months after the site was due to come online. rather than delay progress, the customer chose to find a bridging power supply that could support the site until the connection was available.

Aggreko provided, installed, and commissioned a bank of 12 next generation gas (NGG) generators; enough to power the data centre as it ramped up. This ultimately included 14 mW of NGG generators at the Dublin site, as well as 10 kV switchgears, transformers and auxiliary equipment that allowed the site to operate completely independent of a grid connection.

“Using decentralised solutions has the power to supercharge the industry moving forward,” concluded billy, adding “With the risks of delays and obstructions to construction only likely

to get worse as European infrastructure struggles to cope with demand, bridging solutions have the power to keep things moving on important projects.”

To read the latest Aggreko whitepaper bridging the energy Gap for european Data centres:

https://www.aggreko.com/en-gb/resources/industryreport-bridging-the-energy-gap-for-european-datacentres

DELTA’S NEW BREEZ BENICIA CEILING FANS TRANSFORM AIRFLOW WITH STYLISH DESIGN AND ADVANCED ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Delta, a global leader in power management and provider of IoT-based Smart Green Solutions, presents the new Delta Breez Benicia 52-inch ceiling fans with 3-blade design, light, and remote control.

The fans are available in matte white and matte black, perfect for various spaces, including living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms, patios, and light commercial applications. They deliver up to 70% energy savings, air flow exceeding 4,500 cFm, and power consumption of less than 13 W, ensuring top-tier performance and comfort.

Ken chiu, Sales Director of Fan and Display Systems at Delta electronics (Americas) said “The Delta Breez Benecia ceiling fans are designed to offer superior energy efficiency and user comfort, while seamlessly blending into any decor. These fans are a testament to our commitment to innovation and sustainability, proving our customers with high-quality, ecofriendly ventilation solutions.”

The Delta breez benicia ceiling fans ensure perfectly quiet operation, emitting only 30 db (A) – a level comparable to the peaceful ambiance of a library at around 40 db (A). They guarantee evenly distributed natural air throughout the room, further enhanced by their exceptional airflow efficiency. m oreover, the slim, 3-blade configuration is complemented by a simple and dimmable 13 W L e D light module with a 3000K color temperature, delivering 1,000 lumens of output and a high color accuracy of 90 crI. Additionally, the advanced aerodynamic profiled blade design boosts performance, while the energy-efficient Dc motor offers six speeds and a reverse function for optimal air circulation. Weighing only 11.5 lbs, 30% lighter than typical 52-inch models, these fans ensure easy installation, combining exceptional functionality with effortless setup.

The ceiling fans come with a user-friendly handheld remote control, making operation simple and pairing easy. Additionally, the fans are wet-rated, making them suitable for various indoor and outdoor spaces, including patois and lanais. They start up smoothly with no hesitation, and the

¾-inch diameter x 6-inch length threaded downrod ensures tighter stability.

The Delta breez b enicia ceiling fans are eNerGY STAr® most efficient qualified, featuring a Dc brushless motor engineered to run continuously for a minimum of 70,000 hours. With airflow exceeding 4,500 c Fm and power consumption lower than 13 W, these fans deliver outstanding performance and significant energy savings.

For more information about the Delta breez benecia ceiling fans, visit here

www.delta-americas.com

NEW NSK HIGH-LOAD-CAPACITY TAPERED ROLLER BEARINGS SELECTED FOR WIND TURBINES

A leading European manufacturer of wind turbines will use NSK high-load-capacity tapered roller bearings in the gearboxes of its 15 MW class offshore wind turbines.

The decision to specify the next-generation NSK roller bearings hinged on several key factors. First and foremost, the bearings offer an increase in load capacity of approximately 25% over the conventional product by optimising the roller crowning shape (a slight arc shape that avoids stress concentration at the roller ends). The new bearings also deliver longer bearing life and lighter weight, making them perfect for reducing the construction and maintenance costs of large wind turbines.

The arrival of NSK’s bearing is timely: in 2023 the e U committed to 111 GW of offshore renewable energy by 2030 with 26 member states signing the european Wind charter.

by adopting the high-load-capacity tapered roller bearing, manufacturers in this sector can overcome engineering challenges specific to wind turbines. For instance, the optimised shape of the bearing’s roller crown helps to withstand the demanding operating conditions that wind turbine gearboxes endure. NSK leveraged its numerical simulation expertise to derive the shape and equalise the contact surface pressure between the rollers and the inner and outer rings. This capability prevents excessive surface pressure at the roller ends, even under high loads, facilitating 25% more load capacity and more than double the service life of the conventional product.

The gearbox of a wind turbine and the new NSK high-load tapered roller bearing

With the conventional bearing, excessive contact pressure at the roller ends is unavoidable, typically prompting the selection of larger bearings to handle the high loads. In contrast, pressure is uniform with the new roller bearing, negating the need for upsizing and allowing a weight reduction of more than 30% under the same usage conditions.

As a final point of note, NSK’s expertise in production engineering saw the development of a new highproductivity processing technique to create the product’s intricate crowning shape.

www.nsk.com

NSK’s optimised roller crowning shape
The new NSK bearings offer uniform contact pressure at the roller ends

LATTY AUXILIARY SYSTEMS REDUCE THE ENERGY CONSUMPTION OF YOUR WATERPROOFING SYSTEMS!

GROUPE LATTY, a member of French Fab, has been the French specialist in industrial waterproofing for over a century. Latty supports its customers through the technical innovations demanded by an increasingly competitive market. With this in mind, Latty has been committed to protecting the environment for several years now. Saving resources is one of the major challenges facing industry today. Latty has developed the LATTYlub range of auxiliary systems, which now make it possible to reduce water and energy consumption, while increasing the lifespan of equipment.

The auxiliary systems in the LATTYlub range make it possible to control and monitor the servo-control of sealing systems, simultaneously maintaining them under pressure, thermoregulating them and lubricating them in the chemical, pharmaceutical, food and paper industries, and many others, particularly in the field of nuclear energy and hydroelectricity.

The features of the LATTYlub range enable optimisation and consequent reduction of water and energy consumption. b y reducing the risk of leaks and emissions, LATTYlub equipment helps to protect the environment as well as personnel. They increase the lifespan of sealing systems, making installations sustainable.

The auxiliary systems can be used for all models and types of single or double mechanical seals mounted on process pumps, reactors, filter dryers, etc.).

A wide range covering many applications

LATTYlub Pot lubrication reservoirs can be used to regulate and control the pressure and temperature in double mechanical seals and agitator housings, to improve the service life of this equipment. This ready-to-use system ensures the protection of personnel and equipment while extending maintenance time between two interventions. Its use in a closed loop drastically reduces dam circuit consumption.

The LATTYlub Flowcontrol flow controller is designed for applications where an uninterrupted flow of water is required to ensure the cooling and lubrication of sealing systems. It also optimises water consumption by detecting and locating faults in sealing systems. monitoring is simplified with a visual flow indicator or with the installation of a sensor. At the request of our customers, different configurations are possible in terms of materials, ergonomics and design to ensure our equipment can withstand high pressures and temperatures.

The LATTYlub Thermoflow thermostatic actuator is installed on the barrier fluid outlet of the double mechanical seal to maintain an optimum quantity of fluid on the faces. by allowing the fluid to be renewed when the temperature in the mechanical seal becomes too high, it drastically reduces the consumption of the fluid needed for cooling. This entirely mechanical system is not affected by pressure variation. It is preset to a chosen temperature and operates up to 120°c depending on the model.

The LATTYlub Gascontrol controller-regulator is a supply system for seals requiring a gas supply. Its cooling action guarantees the integrity of the system and the gas barrier generated prevents product emissions into the atmosphere. It optimises the flow of air, nitrogen or other gases. It monitors system efficiency and protects equipment from the risk of deterioration of the seal in place.

Tested, reliable equipment

The new LATTYlub auxiliary systems range is part of the GrOUPe LATTY’s research and development policy, to which it devotes an average of 5% of its annual turnover. The GrOUPe LATTY’s products meet stringent requirements from design to manufacture, including the test phases carried out in its in-house test laboratory at the plant in France or in collaboration with organisations and institutes. Latty's technical teams install and maintain the equipment on site. The equipment is pre-tested and validated at the factory, enabling it to be commissioned safely. In this way, the Latty Group has been guaranteeing total reliability to its industrial customers for over a century.

www.LATTY.com

AWARDED FOR ITS SUSTAINABILITY

NORD receives the silver EcoVadis certificate This year again, NORD was assessed by the rating agency EcoVadis. The drive specialist achieved 68 out of 100 points and was awarded the silver sustainability certificate. The company improved compared to previous years and is well above the industry average..

NOrD receives the silver ecoVadis certificate This year again, NOrD was assessed by the rating agency e coVadis. The drive specialist achieved 68 out of 100 points and was awarded the silver sustainability certificate. The company improved compared to previous years and is well above the industry average.

“In the combined assessment, we rank among the top four percent of the manufacturer group assessed by EcoVadis”, explains Jörg Niermann, Head of marketing at NOrD. “This positive development is also a result of our sustainability strategy. ” In the e nvironment category, Getriebebau NOrD GmbH & co. KG from bargteheide reached the top one percent; in the Sustainable procurement division, they ranked among the best 11 percent of the assessed companies.

Expansion of the sustainability activities “Our aim is to harmonise economic efficiency and sustainability”, says Jörg Niermann. “Based on our Company Policy, we act with integrity and responsibility for the environment –locally and globally.“ Since 2021, NORD has been reporting its sustainability activities according to the German Sustainability Code (DNK). NORD is currently establishing a sustainability network within the 10 largest subsidiaries. From 2025, there will be an international sustainability report, which will contain the key figures of all subsidiaries. In the fields of quality and environment, the company works according to certified ISO management standards. The company furthermore signed the UN Global Compact and follows the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations.

You can find more up-to-date information on sustainability and cSr issues on our website.

NORD-EcoVadis.jpg: NORD achieved 68 out of 100 points in the EcoVadis rating and was awarded the silver sustainability certificate. Image: NORD DRIVESYSTEMS

INTERROLL AUSTRALIA EARNS ECOVADIS PLATINUM SUSTAINABILITY MEDAL

Interroll Australia announces it has earned the coveted EcoVadis Platinum Medal for sustainability excellence.

ecoVadis is a globally trusted provider of business sustainability ratings with a network of more than 130,000 rated companies. Their methodology is based on international sustainability standards set forth by prestigious institutions such as the United Nations, International Organization for Standardization (ISO), and the Global reporting Initiative (GrI).

"This is truly an honor," says mr. Pat cieri, managing Director of Interroll Australia. “Our corporate purpose statement is, ‘We make material handling sustainable, simple and enjoyable,’ and this is evidence of our efforts.”

The platinum sustainability rating puts Interroll Australia in the top 1% of all rated companies. This marks the second consecutive year they have achieved that feat.

“ Winning the award twice is not by accident,” adds Pat. “Sustainability is not something you do once and forget it. It’s a lifelong commitment. Our employees have embraced the challenge and we’re so proud of what we have accomplished, but we know we can do even better.”

Part of their efforts can be seen in their new Australian headquarters. A state-of-the-art solar energy installation reduces their carbon footprint and, at times, generates surplus energy. c reating more power than what they consume is an outcome every company should strive to achieve.

Pat is the first to point out Interroll's dedication extends beyond Australia. “Interroll offices around the world are taking steps to be better environmental stewards. This is only possible with the support of our global headquarters in Switzerland. It’s a top down message and everyone is answering the call.”

www.interroll.com

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