Automation Update - Issue 70 by jetdigitalmedia

AUTOMATION UPDATE

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Issue 70

Intelligent Drivesystems, Worldwide Services

NORD DRIVESYSTEMS NORD DRIVESYSTEMS

Intelligent Drivesystems, Worldwide Services

NORD DRIVESYSTEMS the global company with a flexible product

range that can provide a solution for virtually any drive application. NORD DRIVESYSTEMS the global company with a flexible product From a simple standalone geared motor requirement to a multi-axis range that can provide a solution for virtually any drive application. closed loop system with local intelligence via the integrated NORDAC From a simple geared motor requirement to a multi-axis IEC61131 PLC,standalone communicating over an industry standard BUS or closed loop system with local intelligence via the integrated Ethernet network, we have the products and the support thatNORDAC you can IEC61131 rely on. PLC, communicating over an industry standard BUS or Ethernet network, we have the products and the support that you can NORDon. Gear Limited | Tel +44 1235 534404 | GB-sales@nord.com rely

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AUTOMATION UPDATE Editorial Assistant Laura Sharpe 01843 580 460 laura@automation-update.co.uk Publishing Director Jodie Little 01843 580 460 jodie@jetdigitalmedia.co.uk Sales Director Tim Johnston 01843 448 443 tim@automation-update.co.uk Advertising Exec Jamie Simmons 01843 580 460 jamie@automation-update.co.uk

Automation Update is an engaging, editorially led publication & directory giving the reader news and updates on new products and services to our ever Progressing industry.

Publishing House Jet Digital Media Ltd The Forge, Spratling Court Offices, Manston, Kent CT12 5AN

www.automation-update.co.uk

Forerunner Yesterday. Today. Tomorrow. The Sensor People have been setting technological standards in industrial automation for more than 50 years. In the field of safety at work, we convince right from the start with trend-setting inventions, such as the development of the first protective sensor ever, to our latest safety innovation, “Smart Process Gating” – the space-saving solution for access guarding on conveyor lines. This is how we ensure the success of our customers in an industry that is ever evolving.

www.leuze.co.uk Automation Update - 3

Frer series of TYPE B earth Leakage Relays – AC & DC Network protection The Type B earth leakage relay is an essential part for earth fault protection equipment on an installation where several switch mode power supplies are fed from the AC supply. The nature of a switch mode power supply is such that it may lead to high frequency, Harmonic interference and DC leakage currents elements on the AC network which will not be detected by an AC Type A or Type F earth leakage relay. This may leave to a risk of fire, damage to the installation or harm to operators. Frer’s X...DB3 series earth leakage relays Type B are designed to measure the DC, AC and high frequency leakage current. The continuous display of the system parameters, leakage current, alarm status, frequency and harmonic level on the LCD display makes it is possible to continuously monitor the insulation state and to program the preventive maintenance in order to help avoid unexpected power breaks.

Main functions: • Continuous digital indication of the leakage current: total RMS, AC fundamental, AC high frequency • Double threshold: total RMS and DC component • Storing of the TRIP current values • Internal clock and storage of the last 10 events • RS485 Modbus RTU, measurements, event archive, scope • Selectable anti Fibrillation filter with fire protection 300mA • AC measurements up to 10kHz • Automatic retry • Logic Selectivity • Selectable 3rd harmonic filter The FRER type B earth leakage relays (series X ... DB3), designed to intuitively and automatically detect leakage currents, allow the isolation status to be displayed continuously through the multi-color display. Just one sensor (TDB series ...) connected on the network is required to measure AC and DC networks, with a DC-10kHz band, and a resolution up to 1mA. They have an integrated "demagnetisation" function with zero offset of the DC, which is automatically activated each time the sensor is switched on or when the relay is commanded which effectively clears the measurement error due to factors such as:

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• presence of magnetic fields in DC (terrestrial magnetic field, permanent magnets, DC coils, ...); • temperature drifts; • mechanical shocks or vibrations. The measurement error of the RMS current (AC + DC) is proportional to the line current and depends on the arrangement of the cables passing through the sensor and on the distance of the adjacent cables. The settings of low threshold currents will be possible only by centering the cables and controlled climatic conditions (temperature, vibrations, EMI).

MEASURE: In MEASURING mode, the backlight of the display is GREEN. The first line shows the total True RMS value of the Differential Current and the annunciators related to the current settings. On the second line it is possible to scroll the measurements relating to the continuous components of the measured values such as the network frequency and to the high frequency.

ALARM In ALARM mode the backlight of the display is ORANGE and the alarm annunciator flashes. If the differential current drops below the alarm threshold for the set release delay time, the device automatically returns to the measurement mode; if instead the Memory function is set, it is necessary to press the RESET key, the possible Test / Reset Remote input or the specific RESET Modbus RTU command. The pages and views are identical to the Measure mode.

TRIP In the TRIP mode the display backlight is RED. In the case of TRIP FOR DIFFERENTIAL CURRENT the TRMS value of the Differential Current which caused the trip is displayed on the first line while on the second line it is possible to scroll the measures related to the trip instant. The graphic bar is fixed at 100% and the Trip annunciator is on. In the case of TEST OR TOROID INTERFACE FAILURE, the trip cause is

displayed on the first line. The graphic bar is fixed at 0% and only the Trip annunciator is on. In trip mode the Differential Current should be canceled due to the opening of the System Release. If the relay continues to measure a non-zero differential current, the display backlighting becomes RED BLINKING to highlight the possible event.

Relay main functions: • Continuous digital indication of leakage current: RMS total, DC, fundamental AC, high frequency AC. • Double threshold, total RMS and DC component only • Measurements in AC up to 10kHz. • Internal clock with storage of the last 10 events • Current TRIP level storage • RS485 Modbus RTU, Measurements, event archive, oscilloscope • 3rd harmonic filter and antifibrillation frequency filter with selectable 300mA fire

Anti-fibrillation The anti-fibrillation is found in Type F and Type B earth leakage relays. It is a requirement of several norms, IEC 62423, VDE 0664-T-100, to which the Frer Type B and F relays are compliant. When a leakage current above the trip level, say greater than 30mA or 300mA is operating at a High frequency the conventional Type A earth leakage relay will not see the leakage current, so there is a threat of fire. The Anti Fibrillation filter sees the high Frequency and the current and will trip the Type B relay to reduce the risk of fire, damage to pant and machniery and the risk to life. For further information, please contact sales@tvri.co.uk Tel: 01206 575755 or http://tvri.co.uk/frer-xdb3-type%20B-earthleakage-relays.html

Power Security & Back-Up

Instruments Ltd

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CBI Series Input 90-305 V AC Output 12/24/48 V DC upto 20 A MODbus / CANbus Comms Remote Monitoring via ethernet Status Relay

Battery Chargers CB Series Input 90-305 V AC Output 12/24/48 V DC upto 20 A MODbus / CANbus Comms Remote Monitoring via ethernet Status Relay

Power Supplies

FLEX Series Input 90-500 V AC Output 12/24/48 V DC upto 25 A Single / Dual or 3 Phase inputs

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Tel: +44 (0) 1206 575755 Email: sales@tvri.co.uk www.tvri.co.uk

Ala

Better Cut Quality Through Improved Connectivity Kollmorgen Provides Advances in Plasma Cutting Machine Capabilities for Emerging Turkish Company Challenge A Turkish-based company was looking to improve the cost, cut quality and machine serviceability of their flagship plasma cutting machine. A change from their existing supplier’s design to a higherquality, more-robust solution was needed to gain market share. The company partnered with Kollmorgen to address their improvement requirements. The existing machine design incorporated a servo drive with limited connectivity solutions, making it difficult to interface with popular CNC controls. Having only basic tuning capabilities resulted in lower bandwidth and poor cut quality. The goal was to improve cut quality to reduce waste, improve connectivity to industry standard CNCs and to minimize the overall system costs.

Solution Kollmorgen engineers implemented an AKM/AKD system solution to provide faster indexing and settle times. By implementing advanced tuning, the machine dramatically improved cut quality. Connectivity with the CNC was achieved using the AKD servo drive’s EtherCAT network capability. To address costs and simplify machine assembly, Kollmorgen supplied a single cable option that provides both power and feedback. Removing cables have resulted in important cost savings since each plasma cutting machine cable can exceed 10m. The Kollmorgen single cable option and associated SFD feedback have performed exceptionally well even in the significant EMI/RFI noise environment associated with the machine’s cutting head. 6 - Automation Update

Kollmorgen’s systematic approach to identifying and addressing the customer’s critical needs led to significant improvements in machine cut quality, reduced waste, and required interconnectivity to communicate with the CNC.

Results Kollmorgen increased the company’s ability to gain market share by dramatically improving its plasma cutting machine performance. •

Bandwidth improvements led to a productivity increase of over 25%

•

AKM servo motor single cable option provided a 50% reduction in cabling costs

•

Improved cut quality reduced material waste by 11%

•

EtherCAT communications improved ease of serviceability

Learn More Ready to design and build a more ambitious machine? Click here to find out more.

Leaders in temperature measurement

Rare Metal Thermocouples (+1700°C) (UK Manufactured) Heading 3

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Rare metal thermocouples are made from conductors containing platinum and rhodium alloys and are suited for measuring high temperatures up to 1700°C. These sensors are made to order and are designed specifically for your application and environment. We offer R/S or B type thermocouples with a choice of terminal heads. Main Features • High temperature platinum temperature sensor • Designed specifically for your application/environment • Will withstand tough industrial use www.labfacility.com Bognor Regis tel: +44 (0)1243 871280

sales@labfacility.com Shefﬁeld tel: +44 (0)1909 569446

SAY HALO TO THE FUTURE OF DIGITAL QUALITY CONTROL While metal detectors are an integral first step in food safety, proper management with regular testing are vital to ensure optimum protection is achieved. To provide food manufacturers with a reliable, accurate and auditable testing procedure, Fortress Technology has unveiled the latest version of its Halo digital testing. Available on Fortress’ full range of digital metal detectors, the self check software is a failsafe and cost effective solution to ensure your system is meeting quality control standards.

o successfully comply with the Global Fo o d Safety Initiative (GFSI) and Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) production standards, it is important for food manufacturers to have an appropriate and effective testing system established for the audit process of industrial metal detectors. Depending on the criteria set out by each retailer Code of Practice (COP), tests are typically scheduled throughout the day at hourly intervals to confirm the inspection system is working as it should be. However, regular checks that are carried out manually can be a drain on resources. This is particularly true when testing metal detectors is made difficult due to access, machine position, product flow and environmental conditions. This is where Fortress’ Halo digital testing comes in. Guaranteed to save food manufacturers time and money, Halo automatically and independently checks for all metal materials - ferrous, non-ferrous and stainless steel. The system also checks the performance of the reject system, forming an important part of manufacturing due diligence. Tra d i t i o n a l l y i n s t a l l e d on throat, pipeline and gravity metal detectors that inspect loose or freefalling products on bagging

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lines, including rice, sauces, cereals, powders, corn, sugar and snack foods, the latest Halo software release from Fortress is also beneficial when inspecting bulk bags and boxes on a conveyor style metal detector. In addition to reducing operational costs, digital testing also reduces waste and product rework. TIME IS MONEY Up until now, metal detectors had to be manually checked every hour for QC compliance. However, the cost of running these tests by hand on such a regular basis can be high. Rather than relying on operatives to schedule, perform, document and submit inspection checks, Halo digital testing software automates the timely aspects of the process, allowing food manufacturers to tackle this drain on resources and save thousands of pounds each month. Additionally, reducing the frequency of manual testing helps to eliminate the risk of human error and workplace injury at critical control points on a manufacturing line. Fortress Technology’s European Managing Director Phil Brown explains: “Manual tests on metal detectors handling free-falling products, those fitted above bagging lines or ones processing bulk products are challenging. They can be difficult to reach, need two people to complete the test and incur production loss while each test is completed.”

Image 1: Regular, manual checks on metal detectors can be a drain on resources. Particularly throat, pipeline and gravity metal detectors that inspect loose or free-falling products on bagging lines.

Image 2: The centre of the aperture, being the least sensitive, is where testing should be carried out. Halo overcomes challenges to this, particularly in vertical systems, by generating signals to disturb the magnetic field in the centre of the metal detector’s aperture.

100% QC CONFIDENCE A d d i t i o n a l l y, the recommended test point on a detector is the very centre of the aperture where the signal is least sensitive. However, it’s impossible on a vertical line, for example, to manually drop a test sample into the centre of the detector, which can result in data records showing inconsistent signal variations.

When specifying Halo on a Fortress metal detector, the QC test is completed with 100 percent accuracy by generating signals to disturb the magnetic field in the centre of the metal detector’s... Continue reading on Automation Update...

Intelligent Drivesystems, Worldwide Services

NORDAC PRO FREQUENCY INVERTER

4.0

The next generation of frequency inverters with on-board PLC, positioning software and seemless connectivity to industrial ethernet-based bus systems.

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SICK’s Deep Learning Brings Simplicity to Complex AI Inspection SICK has launched a suite of Deep Learning apps and services to simplify machine vision quality inspection for challenging components, assemblies, surfaces or food produce, especially those that have previously defied automation and remained distinguishable only by human inspection. SICK Deep Learning radically reduces set-up time and cost by enabling Artificial Intelligence image classification to run directly onboard SICK smart devices. With Deep Learning, programmable SICK devices take decisions automatically using specially-optimised neural networks and run accurate and reliable inspections that would have previously been extremely challenging or simply impossible to achieve in high-speed automated processes across many different industries. Developed with user-simplicity at their core, SICK’s Deep Learning products cater for a wide range of needs and skill levels. The Deep Learning Starter App is designed for easy-set up by entry-level users, while the ready-touse Intelligent Inspection Sensor App provides quick and easy integration with a large set of configurable machine vision tools. More experienced programmers and integrators can also create and customise their own Deep Learning sensor apps using the SICK AppSpace software platform. “With SICK Deep Learning, what formerly took a team of developers half a year to create, can now be achieved for a relatively small investment in a just a few hours,” says Neil Sandhu, SICK’s UK Product Manager for Imaging, Measurement and Ranging. “Machine builders and production teams alike can revisit inspection

processes that have previously been too complex to automate, whether retrofitting systems into existing production environments or developing completely new machines. “Through a simple step-by-step user interface, the SICK neural networks are trained by being shown example images and learn in the same way that humans do to judge a good inspection and what variations can be tolerated. “There is no need for laborious development using a set of rules and algorithms to identify defects, find patterns or edges, which can be particularly time-consuming for items that are more difficult to assess such as baked goods, creases on leather car seats or the grain of timber, for example.” Released as part of the initial launch, SICK Deep Learning is available using the Inspector P 621 2D vision sensor, and the SIM 1012 programmable Sensor Integration Machine generally running with SICK’s Picocam or Midicam streaming cameras. The longer-term roll-out will see SICK Deep Learning enabled across both SICK smart 2D and 3D vision sensors, and SICK data processing gateways. With SICK Deep Learning, the image inference is carried out directly on the device in a short and predictable decision time, without the need for an additional PC, and results are output to the control as sensor values. Because system training is done in the Cloud, there is also no need for separate training hardware or software, saving on implementation time and cost. Users follow the intuitive graphic interface of the SICK dStudio online service to select and train their neural network in a few simple steps: Once

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the SICK devices are set up, users are prompted to gather images of the inspection in realistic production conditions, and then sort them into classes. Using dStudio, the pre-sorted images are uploaded to the Cloud where the image training process is completed by the neural network. The user can then apply further production images to evaluate and adjust the system. When satisfied, the neural network can be downloaded to the Deep Learning-enabled SICK device, and the automated inference process will begin with no further Cloud connection necessary. SICK is offering a free trial for users to assess whether Deep Learning is suitable their application and to ensure a simple and quick start. Once onboard, a Deep Learning support portal is also available to guide users through the process, if necessary. For more information, and to enquire about a free trial, please contact Andrea Hornby on 01727 831121 or email andrea.hornby@sick.co.uk. www.sick.co.uk

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mk Conveyor Quick Designer with Additional Functions mk is expanding its service range and enhancing its QuickDesigner conveyor configurator. The available options now also include adjustable side rails and new stand systems. The wide range of conveyor system variants is almost endless so mk offer conveyor technology online for fast and easy configuration of an individual belt conveyor. The configurator can be found online at www.quickdesigner.com and generates a 3D model and quotation. There is an automatic plausibility check, detailed help and live preview. Customers can view all configurations in ‘My Account’ which can be then be saved, retrieved and edited at a later date. Three top selling models for different weight and requirement classes are available as a basis for the configuration. These can be adapted intuitively and with ease to meet individual requirements And now mk is setting the benchmark again. Two new options have been added to the QuickDesigner. Therefore mk can now respond to the customers' requirements in even greater detail and provide an even larger variety of variants. One new addition is the adjustable side rails SF01 & SF03, which is now available alongside the range of fixed side rails. This side rail is a particularly effective solution for positioning products on the conveyor belt. The usable width is quick and easy to change and the height can also be adjusted. The large selection of different side guide rails ensures the optimum adjustment to the contour of the product being conveyed. In addition, the heavy-duty stand 31 based on the profiles mk 2031 and mk 2000 has been added to the range of stands. This stand is a more robust version of the height-adjustable, medium weight stand 53.2 based on the mk 2001 profile. This H-design system can be used in practically every conveyor system and is available in standard heights of 325 mm to 2000 mm with adjustable ranges of +/-25 to +/-200 mm. “We are constantly improving our QuickDesigner range to ensure that we meet the needs of our customers” states Darren Whiteside, Director at mk Profile Systems. Configure your individual belt conveyor quickly and easily, now! www.quickdesigner.com To find out more visit www.mkprofiles.co.uk, call (01949) 823751 or email info@mkprofiles.co.uk 12 - Automation Update

Small Belt Conveyor GUF-P MINI for small products with low volume and weight

Low installation height for easy integration into complex systems Belt recirculation integrated into the conveyor frame Small tail diameters keep gaps at product transfer points narrow

www.mkprofiles.co.uk

mk Profile Systems Limited a company of the mk Technology Group

New modular system leads the way for modern installation solutions Here’s the dilemma, you consistently hit the same cable and wiring issue, the only solution you have uses existing products and you know the end result is far from ideal. But it’s all you have! This is a frustrating issue faced by many electrical engineers. Surely, there’s a better way, a better solution.

a t a Pa n e l G m b H , a company in the Murrelektronik Group, has risen to the challenge and now offers an electronic installation solution for mobile machinery that is modular, highly flexible and future-proof. Mobile machinery defines a wide range of machinery designed to perform specific operations in off-road environments. Including agricultural machinery, forestry equipment and construction machinery - lifting and handling equipment, earthmoving machinery, cranes and industrial trucks.

The market segment of mobile machines is still in its infancy when it comes to “rational installation technology”. Although cable harnesses and terminal boxes are the dominant technology, in recent years more and more electronic technologies have found their way into machines – and this has had a knock -on effects in terms of wiring effort for machine builders. In addition, manufacturers nowadays have more options in their product range to better cover market requirements. All this has meant that the cable harness and the terminal box solution are increasingly reaching their limits.

Depending on the type of machine, some manufacturers say that due to the weight, the cable harness can only be installed with several helping hands and in some cases, the support of an indoor crane is required. Another critical situation is as follows: when connecting many individual strands, it is difficult to ensure that each individual strand is tightened and leakproof. If even a single seal fails, moisture or an operating medium can penetrate right into the housing of the controller, sensor or actuator causing the machine to fail completely.

Simple, fast and error-free assembly In March 2020, the Murrelektronik Group founded Data Panel GmbH with the aim of solving or eliminating the problems and weaknesses outlined above. Its portfolio includes high-quality, decentralized, electrotechnical installation solutions for mobile machinery. This modular system comprising of fieldbus modules, passive distributors and pre-assembled cables offers a highly coordinated, modular and pluggable system. Specifically manufactured for the mobile machines market, the new system has revolutionised wiring and cabling and makes it possible to economically realize smaller batch sizes. The fully encapsulated CANopen fieldbus modules from the xtremeDB product family offer eight slots for inputs or outputs. The signal types - digital, analog, ratiometric, frequency/counter and encoder signals can be individually configured for inputs. DO (4A/10A), PWM/PWM(I) and PVG valve controls on the output side round off the signal range. Thanks to the end-to-end DT-compatible connection technology, the module, which is made of a reinforced plastic housing material, can be used in machines in which the designer can use pre-assembled sheathed cables or, alternatively, use single wires for connection.

Unique modular system construction kit consisting of active and passive IO modules and other system components

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The use of passive distributors creates the intermediate step from parallel

wiring harness or terminal box wiring to the plugged fieldbus technology and also offers the possibility of bringing “on-board” inputs and outputs on the controller into the field simply and cost-effectively. In contrast to the cable harness, the plug-in system allows subsequent expansions or adaptations of the machine electronics without any problems. With the complete xtremeDB product family, machine setup and commissioning can be carried out without expert knowledge using Murrelektronik’s pre-assembled and tested connection cables based on DT plug-in technology. When these connecting cables are used, the active and passive modules meet the requirements of IP68, IP66K, and IP69K. Alternatively, the cable can be assembled with DT or compatible connectors. The modular system of pre-assembled and tested components and the extensive range of accessories ensure a high degree of independence when wiring sensors and actuators. Another advantage of xtremeDB is the independence from cable manufacturers. Due to the easy handling of the components of the new installation system modular system, machine builders are not dependent on their capacity resources. In the terminal box, the change of technology results in a significant space saving, since additional input and output modules and the potential terminal level are replaced in addition to the mobile control. This means that signals are no longer wired individually and laboriously “in the box”, but simply and efficiently installed decentrally in the machine - the terminal box can thus be smaller or, in the ideal case, even completely omitted. Cable glands and thus potential weak points are no longer

The xtremeDB active CANopen fieldbus module creates the conditions for the step away from the cable harness to a decentralized, robust and pluggable installation solution

required. The installation time is thus reduced to a minimum. In the event of service, the connecting cables can be quickly and easily replaced on site or repaired with self-attachable plugs.

Contact Murrelektronik ltd Tel: 0161 728 3133 Email: sales@murrelektronik.co.uk

The connecting lines are cast or high-pressure overmoulded and thus permanently resistant to media and high-pressure cleaning agents

Automation Update - 15

Shemesh to unveil a 200ppm total turnkey filling line solution in a $4MM investment including US showroom and Spares inventory Building on decades of perfecting existing technologies pertinent to the new line, the announcement comes as a response to increased demand and market trends, partially set by the COVID-19 pandemic. The news from Shemesh is seen as another milestone in cementing the brand as a global leader in the canister wipes packaging machinery arena. The all-new total solution canister wipes platform, dubbed TKS-200, is an extension of the empirically proven TKS-60 and TKS120 models. The TKS-200 is designed to run at a consistent speed of 200ppm and a maximum speed of 220-240ppm. It has been decided to not allow for the TKS200 sale to potential interested parties before the new technology will have been demonstrated to selected group of key industry players. Such demonstrations are envisaged to take place at the all-new USbased Shemesh headquarters in the second half of 2021. Canister wipes lines are much more sophisticated compared with lines built for other traditional market sectors such as Food & Bev or Cosmetics in which Shemesh also operates. That is partially because such pharma-grade lines involve high speed liquid filling in containers with elastic solids in them (the round nonwovens) combined with other complex technologies unique for canister wipes lines as automatically stuffing rolls (the round nonwovens) into cans in high speeds. This often happens while simultaneously dealing with alcoholbased solutions as well as in a potentially corrosive environment.

As the only company in the world capable of offering a true canister wipes outfit from product feed all the way to a packed case with equipment built under just one umbrella - the edge we provide at Shemesh to our customers is immense.”

Mark Calliari, Shemesh’s Director of North America Operations, commented, “Following the Shai Shemesh, Shemesh Automation’s great success we’ve had in the CEO commented, “We have been working market with the TKS-60 and tirelessly over the last few decades to predominantly the TKS-120, I could optimize our machinery and truly perfect not be more excited about this new our total turnkey solution for the canister development. I’m sure the new wipes industry. I am so proud of what we TKS-200 will make a great impact have managed to achieve with the groundon the market as it not only offers a higher speed, but also better than ever breaking TKS-200 total turnkey solution. consistency in production, accuracy and user satisfaction. The new TKSIndeed, we know of no other company 200 from Shemesh and the substantial investment made into a new USon a global scale with such deep, vertical based showroom and spares inventory demonstrates once again our strong know-how in such different technologies as commitment to the industry, our customers and to the US market.” Liquid Filling, Round Wipes Rolls Stuffing, Conduction Sealing, Capping, Labelling, www.shemeshautomation.com and Case Packing – the core technologies sales@ shemeshautomation.com underlying the Shemesh great value proposition catered to our customer base. 16 - Automation Update

The demand for stainless steel clamps is especially high for the bottling, packaging and processing technology as well as for outdoor appliances and equipment bearing thermal loads. We work constantly and with great dedication on innovative products and solutions for our customers. The range of linear, lifting column, profile and connecting technology products include catalogue as well as tailor-made products, system solutions such as platforms, work stations and special projects. We are happy to advise you in choosing a product or to develop a tailor-made system solution with you from our extensive modular product range. RK Rose+Krieger 26 Faraday Road Aylesbury Buckinghamshire HP19 8RY 01296 611660 www.rose-krieger.co.uk www.phoenix-mecano.co.uk

www.leuze.co.uk

Automation Update - 17

SAFE, ERGONOMIC UNPACKING OF SHEET METAL STACKS

German sawing equipment and industrial warehouse manufacturer Kasto has added a new solution to its range of equipment for stockholders of sheet metal and for factories that process it. The new plate handler allows safe unpacking and storage of sheet stacks, significantly reducing the amount of manual handling required, which is especially beneficial for heavy plates. The system not only saves time but also helps to prevent accidents and injuries. Availability in the UK and Ireland is through the company’s Milton Keynes subsidiary. The KASTO plate handler consists of a drum-shaped turning device and a support table that can be raised and lowered. A stack of sheet metal to be stored is placed for stability in the centre of the table by a forklift before it is unpacked. The user first removes the straps, packaging and edge protectors from the top, then advances the stack into the drum, which rotates through 180 degrees. The table rises to its upper position to retrieve the stack in its inverted orientation and lowers to allow easy removal of the remaining packaging and the wooden pallet. After all packaging has been removed, vertical and horizontal guides align the plates exactly on the table according to the user’s requirements, either 18 - Automation Update

centred or at one corner. Telescopic forks convey the plates to a waiting cart and then onto a storage pallet. In this way, automated handling is achieved without any heavy lifting or carrying. The result is greater efficiency and better workplace ergonomics, while accidents and injuries are avoided. The device is suitable for sheet metal stacks weighing up to five tonnes in small, medium and large formats up to 2,000 x 4,000 mm. It offers sheet metal distributors and processors an economical means of automating the laborious process of unpacking and storing material. The system can also handle corrugated sheets and set them down on either side as needed. In addition, it can seamlessly connect to all Kasto sheet metal storage systems, ensuring consistent, efficient and ergonomic material flow. Email: sales@uk.kasto.com :: Web: www.kasto.com

Croft Filters – Quality custom filters for Automation processes Croft Filters are a leading UK manufacturer of over 34 year experience, specialising in the manufacture of high quality custom filters. The Company supplies a variety of diverse industrial sectors, including: Chemical, Food, Beverage, Oil and Gas, Pharmaceutical, Energy and Technology amongst others. Notably, Croft’s products are widely used among engineering firms operating within different sectors. Filter elements Croft Filters can provide filter elements to customers’ own design or offer an alternative solution to suit specific applications. The filter elements can be manufactured from combinations of perforated plate, wire mesh and knitted wire mesh in a variety of different materials. These elements can be designed to fit existing automation system.

company can also manufacture disc filters for use across a wide range of applications. They can be produced in many sizes and can also be supported with a perforated disc if required. Additive manufacturing Croft also specialise in the Additive Manufacture (3D Printing) of complex metal components. Benefits of the Additive process, such as: Part weight reduction, Multi-part to single component and Expanded design capabilities, allow the customers to re-think their approach to their designs in order to improve the efficiency, utility or aesthetics of their parts. Other custom filters Croft Filters based in Warrington, England can manufacture filtration solutions in any shape or design, including basket strainers, duplex filters, vacuum filters, cylinder filters, screen filters, last chance filters, inline filters, pleated filters and slot tubes in perforated plate, wedge wire and woven wire mesh.

Witches’ hat filters These filters are composed of a perforated cone supporting one or more fine wire meshes which maximise the flow area, effectively reducing resistance and ensuring reliable operation. The well-established, simple yet effective design makes them very popular for all kinds of industrial applications. As witches’ hat specialists, Croft Filters can manufacture them rapidly from basic sketches to final products with a pore size as small as 1 micron to suit each customer’s requirements. Disc filters Not only can Croft supply a variety of different meshes, the

20 - Automation Update

Croft Filters work with a wide range of metals including, Mild & Stainless Steel, Copper, Brass, Inconel®, Monel®, Hastelloy® and Aluminium Alloy’s. Quality of both product and service has been the key to Croft’s success; the Company takes great pride in understanding their customer’s needs, quickly supplying them with a high-quality product that exceeds customer’s expectations.

For more information about Croft’s quality custom filters: Call 01925 766265 or Email sales@filters.co.uk

“

Hygiene and safety are top priorities.

„

Han® F+B - Hygienic and robust.

Connectors for the food industry ■ ■ ■ ■

Easy-to-clean design especially for the spray zone Reliable connections ensured, even with daily cleaning Protection against water jets and aggressive cleaning agents IP69K rated, Ecolab approved and complies with EHEDG guidelines

One Range. No Limits: www.HARTING.com/UK/en-gb/connectors-food-industry

Protecting Your Plant Before

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

ROADSTONE

STONE

POWER STATIONS

AGGREGATE

…AND MANY MORE!

RELIABILITY Tel : +44 (0)151 356 2322 Website: www.rotechsystems.co.uk Fax: +44 (0)151 356 2437 Email: sales@rotechsystems.co.uk

Monitoring the world